The Things to Do in Ascona You’ll Regret Skipping

Why Ascona Is One of the Most Beautiful Places in Southern Switzerland

Ascona is located on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore, and every time we arrive, it instantly feels like being on vacation.

In 2025, Ascona was crowned “Swiss Village of the Year”, highlighting its charm, lakeside beauty, and appeal as one of Switzerland’s most attractive holiday destinations.

The town reminds us a lot of Italy, but with a clear Swiss charm. Colorful houses, palm trees, and the relaxed atmosphere make Ascona feel special from the very first moment.

One of our favorite places is the lakeside promenade. Walking along the water, with views over Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains, never gets boring for us. We’ve visited Ascona so many times that we honestly lost count – and yet, it always feels like a little holiday.

We live in the German-speaking part of Switzerland, so the change is always striking. During the train ride, the language, the food, and the pace of life suddenly turn Italian. It’s still Switzerland, but with a strong Mediterranean flair.

Because of its slow atmosphere, beautiful views, and charming old town, Ascona is a beautiful place we keep coming back to. In this guide, we share the best things to do in Ascona, along with tips on when to visit, how to get there, and where to stay.

Our Top Hotel Picks in Ascona

• Luxury: Hotel Eden Roc – The Leading Hotels of the World
• Mid-Range: Albergo Carcani by Ketty & Tommy
• Best Value: Hotel Collinetta

1. Stroll Along the Lakeside Promenade

Walking along the Lakeside Promenade (Lungolago) is one of the best things to do in Ascona. For us, it’s usually the first thing we do when we arrive.

We’ve walked here at all times of the day, but mornings are our favorite. That’s when the town slowly comes to life, cafés start setting up their terraces, and the promenade feels calm and unhurried. It’s not very long, but it’s incredibly pretty and charming.

What we love most is the mix of Mediterranean and Swiss scenery. Palm trees and boats give it an Italian feel, while the mountains in the background are a constant reminder that you’re still in southern Switzerland.

The promenade is also perfect for slowing down. We’ve enjoyed relaxed meals at the restaurants, but just as often we grab a pizza to go, sit on a bench by the lake, and watch the water for a while.

2. Explore the Old Town

Exploring Ascona’s Old Town is all about slowing down. We usually come here without a plan, simply wandering through the small, winding streets and seeing where they lead.

The historic Borgo Old Town is car-free, quiet, and full of Italian charm. Cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and small details make it a great place for taking photos and just enjoying the moment. Compared to many other old towns in Switzerland, it feels smaller, calmer, and more Mediterranean.

If you’re interested in art, Ascona also has several art galleries and museums, including the Museo Comunale d’Arte Moderna. We’re not big art lovers ourselves, but it’s nice to know that there’s a strong artistic side to the town if you want to dive a bit deeper.

3. Admire the Italian Architecture

Walking through Ascona often feels like being in Italy, but with a twist you don’t find very often. The overall Italian look of the small town is what stands out most, especially the colorful houses along the promenade and in the old town.

Some buildings naturally make you stop for a moment – not because you know their history, but because they simply look beautiful. Soft colors, small balconies, fountains, and open piazzas give the town a relaxed and timeless feel.

What we like most is this unique mix. Ascona doesn’t feel like a typical Swiss town, and it’s not quite Italy either. It’s something in between, and that’s what makes walking through its streets so enjoyable.

You don’t need to be an architecture lover to appreciate Ascona. If you enjoy beautiful old towns, slow walks, and places with character, you’ll love taking your time here and just looking around.

4. Visit the Chiesa Parrocchiale dei Santi Pietro e Paolo

The Chiesa Parrocchiale dei Santi Pietro e Paolo is hard to miss when walking along Ascona’s promenade. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth stopping for a moment.

We’ve mostly admired the church from the outside, and it already feels special. The historic façade and its location close to the lake make it a beautiful and calm contrast to the lively promenade nearby.

If you’re exploring Ascona on foot, this is an easy and nice stop along the way. You don’t need to plan a visit; simply passing by and taking a closer look is already pretty impressive.

5. Relax at the Lido di Ascona

On a hot summer day, the Lido di Ascona is the perfect place to cool down. We didn’t plan to go there, but since we had our swimwear with us, it turned into a spontaneous stop.

Swimming in Lake Maggiore is one of the best things you can do when temperatures rise. The water feels refreshing, and even though the lido can get crowded in summer, the beach area still feels relaxed and enjoyable.

You don’t need to spend the whole day here. Even a short swim makes a big difference and adds a fun break to your time in Ascona. If you’re visiting during summer, we definitely recommend stopping by – especially when the sun is out, and the lake is calling.

6. Visit the Brissago Islands

The Brissago Islands are an easy day trip from Ascona and can be reached by boat in about 30 minutes. We didn’t stop on the islands themselves, but we rented a boat and cruised past them on the lake.

Seeing the islands from the water is already impressive. Surrounded by Lake Maggiore, they feel calm and slightly exotic, and the view alone makes the boat ride worthwhile.

The islands are known for their botanical gardens, and from what we’ve seen, they look like a great place for a peaceful walk away from the busier parts of Ascona. We haven’t visited yet, but it’s definitely on our list for a future trip. It is for you, especially if you are a nature lover and looking for a quiet escape.

7. Charter a Boat and Explore Lake Maggiore on Your Own

For us, renting a motorboat is always high on the list when we travel. We simply love being on the water. And Lake Maggiore is perfect for it.

Chartering a boat in Ascona is easy and spontaneous. We didn’t have a reservation and rented one on the same day. You don’t need a license either. In Switzerland, you can drive motorboats up to 8 hp without one, which makes it accessible even if it’s your first time.

What we love most is the freedom. You can explore the lake at your own pace, stop whenever you want, and jump straight into the water for a swim. Seeing Ascona, the mountains, and places like the Brissago Islands from the lake gives you a completely different perspective.

8. Hike Monte Verità

Monte Verità is a peaceful hill just above Ascona and a great place for a relaxed walk with a view. We visited on a spring day, and the walk up was very manageable and not too demanding.

The real highlight for us was the view. From the top, you get beautiful panoramic views over Ascona, Lake Maggiore, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a calm place where you can slow down and enjoy being above the town.

Monte Verità also has a long and interesting history, but we mainly came here for the walk and the scenery. We didn’t visit the museum and simply enjoyed the fresh air and the views.

If you’re looking for a quiet escape and an easy hike with a rewarding viewpoint, Monte Verità is a lovely option and fits perfectly into a relaxed stay in Ascona.

9. Enjoy Water Sports on Lake Maggiore

If you like being active, Lake Maggiore offers plenty of options. We usually go for stand-up paddling, just like on many other lakes in Switzerland, and Ascona is a great place for it.

The lake feels well-suited for relaxed water activities, especially on warm days. You’ll often see people kayaking, sailing, or trying windsurfing, and there are several rental shops and schools in town if you want to try something new.

For us, water sports are a nice addition, not a must. But if you’re looking to mix sightseeing with some movement on the water, this is an easy and fun way to spend a few hours in Ascona.

10. Experience the JazzAscona Festival

If you’re visiting Ascona in late June or early July, the JazzAscona Festival is something to keep in mind. We haven’t experienced it ourselves yet, but it’s high on our list.

During the festival, live jazz concerts take place along the Lungolago and at different spots around town. From everything we’ve seen and heard, the atmosphere looks amazing, especially in the evenings when music fills the streets by the lake.

If you love live music and a lively but still relaxed vibe, visiting Ascona during JazzAscona is definitely worth considering. We’re hoping to time one of our future trips around it.

11. Day Trip to Locarno

A visit to Locarno is an easy and worthwhile day trip from Ascona. We’ve been there many times, sometimes for a full stay, sometimes just for part of the day.

Getting there is simple. You can take the bus or the ferry, and the ferry ride across Lake Maggiore is already an experience in itself. We’ve done both and enjoyed both.

Locarno feels bigger and more lively than Ascona. Walking through town, spending time at Piazza Grande, and exploring the streets gives you a more urban feel, while still staying close to the lake.

We’ve walked up to Madonna del Sasso, and the views from above are absolutely worth it. If you’re short on time, it’s possible to visit Ascona and Locarno in one day. You won’t see everything, but you’ll get a great impression of both towns.

For us, Locarno is definitely a must-see when visiting this part of Switzerland and a perfect complement to the slower pace of Ascona.

12. Eat Local in Ascona

One of the nicest things to do in Ascona is simply to eat and enjoy the moment. The local cuisine is a mix of Swiss and Italian flavors, which feels very natural here.

We mostly went for pizza, pasta, and lasagne, and especially loved eating at lakeside restaurants. Even in spring, when the sun comes out, you can often sit outside, which makes every meal feel like a small holiday.

To be honest, Ascona isn’t a hardcore foodie destination for us. Like in many beautiful places, the location often shines more than the food itself. But we never had a bad experience. Every meal was relaxed, enjoyable, and part of the overall atmosphere.

If you want something more traditional, you’ll also find grotti serving local Ticinese dishes in a rustic setting.

13. Casa Serodine

You’ll likely pass by Casa Serodine while walking through Ascona’s old town. We only saw it from the outside, but it still caught our attention.

The building stands out because of its Italian Baroque look and detailed façade. Even if you’re not deeply into history or architecture, it’s a nice photo stop and adds to the overall charm of the town.

We wouldn’t plan a visit just for Casa Serodine, but if you’re already exploring the village, it’s definitely worth a quick look as you walk by.

14. Ascona by Night

In summer, evenings in Ascona are something special. We spent a lot of time outside, just enjoying the atmosphere by the lake.

After dark, the town feels lively but still calm. Bars and cafés along the promenade fill up, people sit outside with a drink, and the whole place has a relaxed holiday vibe.

Ascona isn’t a nightlife destination with clubs and late nights. But if you enjoy great evenings, good conversations, and a beautiful setting by the water, this is exactly the kind of place where nights feel easy and memorable.

Best Time to Visit Ascona

Ascona has a mild, Mediterranean climate, which means it’s a place you can enjoy for most of the year. That said, some seasons simply feel better than others.

Spring is our personal favorite. When the weather in Zurich still feels like winter, Ascona already feels like early summer. Flowers start to bloom, the promenade comes to life, and it’s perfect for walking along the Lungolago or hiking up Monte Verità. There are fewer visitors, and sitting outside at cafés feels especially relaxed.

Summer is lively and full of energy. Hot days are ideal for swimming in Lake Maggiore, spending time at the Lido di Ascona, and enjoying long evenings by the lake. The town feels busier, but the atmosphere is still pleasant, especially at night when everyone gathers outside.

Autumn is a quieter and more relaxed time to visit. The light becomes softer, temperatures cool down, and it’s a great season for boat trips, visiting the Brissago Islands, or simply enjoying the slower pace of town. We’ve always enjoyed Ascona in autumn as well.

We’ve never been disappointed by any season, but if you want the best balance of weather, atmosphere, and activities, we recommend visiting between May and September.

How Many Days in Ascona?

We’ve visited Ascona many times as a day trip from Zurich, and even a few hours here are enough to feel the special atmosphere. If you’re short on time, a day trip is absolutely worth it.

That said, Ascona really shines when you can slow down.

Spending 2 to 3 days gives you enough time to enjoy the lake, walk the promenade, explore the old town, and take things at a relaxed pace. If Ascona is one stop on a longer trip, our Switzerland itinerary can help you decide where it fits best.

If you have more time, a full week in Ascona or the surrounding Ticino region is a great idea, especially if you love nature and outdoor activities. You could also spend a day exploring Lugano to see a different side of southern Switzerland.

We often head back to Zurich to save on accommodation, since the journey is easy for us. But if your budget allows it, staying overnight lets you experience Ascona at another level.

Where to Stay in Ascona?

To make it as easy as possible for you, we have written a separate blog post on the topic of “Where to Stay in Ascona“. Below you will find a summary of the most important information on this topic.

We usually visit Ascona on day trips, but if we were to stay overnight, these are places we’d consider, based on recommendations from family and friends.

Luxury: Hotel Eden Roc – The Leading Hotels of the World
A high-end lakeside hotel with beautiful views, a private beach, and a spa. Ideal if you want to fully relax and stay right by the water.

Mid-Range: Albergo Carcani by Ketty & Tommy
Located directly on the Lungolago, with modern rooms and a great central location for exploring Ascona on foot.

A little outside but impressive: Hotel Collinetta
If you’re looking for great lake views in a quiet setting, Hotel Collinetta is a lovely option just a short walk from Ascona’s promenade.

Budget: Hotel Polo
A budget-friendly option with simple, comfortable rooms, a short walk from the town center. Breakfast is included.

How to Get to Ascona in Switzerland?

There are several ways to reach Ascona, but some are simply easier than others.

By Train

We often travel to Ascona by train from Zurich, and it’s our preferred option. Public transport in Switzerland is excellent, and the journey is relaxed and scenic. You can read a book, look out the window, and enjoy the views without worrying about traffic.

The closest major station is Locarno. From there, it’s a short bus ride or a quick hop by taxi to Ascona. If you have a few extra hours, it’s also worth taking some time to explore Locarno before continuing to Ascona.

By Car

We’ve also driven to Ascona from Zurich several times. The drive is scenic and gives you more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding area.

Parking in Ascona is manageable if you use public car parks, so it’s not as stressful as it might seem. Just be aware that parking directly in the old town is limited.

Make sure you know everything you need to know about driving in Switzerland beforehand.

By Air

If you’re traveling from abroad, flying into Zurich Airport is the most convenient option. From there, we recommend continuing by train to Ascona via Locarno.

Milan Malpensa is another option, but for us, Zurich + train is the easiest and most relaxed combination.

Where Is Ascona in Switzerland?

Ascona is located in southern Switzerland, in the canton of Ticino, close to the Italian border. It sits on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore, surrounded by mountains and palm trees.

Because of its location, Ascona feels very different from many other places in Switzerland. The whole Ticino region is beautiful, and Ascona is a perfect example of that Italian-influenced, Mediterranean atmosphere you find in this part of the country.

How to Get Around Ascona?

Ascona is a small town, and getting around is very easy. We usually explore everything on foot, which is also the nicest way to experience the streets, the promenade, and the lake views.

Walking around Ascona is simple and relaxed, and most places are close to each other. For longer distances, the local bus works very well and is easy to use.

To get to nearby places like Locarno, we often use the bus or the ferry, both of which are convenient and stress-free. Biking is also an option, and we’ve seen plenty of people cycling around town, even though we haven’t tried it ourselves.

Where to Eat in Ascona, Switzerland?

Eating out in Ascona is very much about the setting. Many restaurants are right by the lake, and that alone makes every meal feel special.

We’ve tried a few places in town and really enjoyed Ristorante Riva. Sitting by the water, especially on a sunny day, made the whole experience feel relaxed and very Ascona-like. The food was good, and the location by the lake definitely added to it.

If you’re looking for something more upscale, Ristorante Seven is a popular fine dining option with lake views and a more elegant atmosphere. It’s often recommended for special occasions.

Our tip: don’t overthink it. In Ascona, choosing a place with a nice outdoor table by the lake often matters just as much as what’s on the menu.

Tipping isn’t heavily expected, but we usually round up the bill when the service is good. Our guide to tipping in Switzerland explains what’s customary in restaurants, cafés, and hotels.

How Much Does Ascona Cost?

Ascona is a mid- to high-range destination, which is typical for Switzerland, especially in such a beautiful lakeside setting.

Accommodation is usually the highest cost. Luxury hotels start around CHF 400 per night, mid-range options are often CHF 150–250, and budget hotels begin at around CHF 100 per night. This is one reason we often visit Ascona as a day trip from Zurich.

When it comes to food, prices are fairly standard for Switzerland. A fine dining meal can cost CHF 60–100 per person, while casual restaurants are usually in the CHF 20–40 range. A coffee at a café is around CHF 4–5. You’re often paying as much for the location by the lake as for the food itself.

Many of the best things to do in Ascona are free. Walking along the Lungolago, exploring the old town, or enjoying the views costs nothing. Museums and places like the Brissago Islands usually have small entrance fees, often around CHF 10–20.

Ascona isn’t cheap, but in our experience, it’s worth the money. For a broader overview of accommodation, transport, daily costs, and trip planning, our Switzerland travel guide covers the rest of the country in more detail.

FAQ

Is Ascona worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely. Ascona is worth visiting for its Mediterranean atmosphere, beautiful lakeside promenade, and relaxed pace of life. Even after many visits, it still feels like a small holiday every time we go.

What are the best things to do in Ascona?

Some of the best things to do in Ascona include:

• Walking along the Lungolago
• Exploring the Old Town
• Swimming in Lake Maggiore
• Renting a boat
• Taking a day trip to Locarno
  Many of these experiences are simple, but that’s exactly what makes Ascona special.

Can you visit Ascona as a day trip?

Yes. We’ve done many day trips from Zurich, and it works very well. A few hours are enough to soak in the atmosphere, walk the promenade, and enjoy a meal by the lake. That said, staying overnight lets you experience Ascona at its calmest.

How many days do you need in Ascona?

• 1 day is enough for a first impression
• 3-4 days are ideal for a relaxed stay
• 7 days work well if you want to explore the wider Ticino region
  It really depends on how slow you want to travel.

If Ascona is part of a longer stay in southern Switzerland, our Ticino travel guide can help you decide how much time to spend here compared with Locarno, Lugano, and the surrounding valleys.

What is the best time to visit Ascona?

The best time to visit Ascona is between May and September. Spring is our personal favorite, because while much of Switzerland still feels cool, Ascona already feels like summer. Summer is lively, and autumn is calmer but still beautiful.

Is Ascona expensive?

Ascona is not cheap, but prices are typical for Switzerland. Many highlights, like walking along the lake or exploring the old town, are free, which helps balance the cost.

Do you need a car in Ascona?

No. Ascona is very walkable, and public transport is excellent. You can easily arrive by train via Locarno and get around on foot, by bus, or by ferry.