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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Ascona.
Ascona is a treasure trove of possibilities waiting to be explored, a canvas painted with nature’s finest hues and embellished with architectural wonders.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ascona:
1. There are a few attractions in Ascona that are worth visiting
What to see or do: Relax by Lake Maggiore and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains.
Don’t miss: The Ascona Jazz Festival, which takes place every year in late June and early July, bringing together some of the best jazz musicians from around the world.
Insider travel tips: – Take a boat ride on Lake Maggiore for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
2. Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy, stretching from Piedmont in the west to Lombardy in the east, and extending northwards into Switzerland.
The Swiss town of Ascona lies on the northern shore of the lake.
What to see or do: Take a boat tour of the lake, stopping off at the picturesque Borromean Islands, which offer stunning gardens and palaces to explore.
Visit the Brissago Islands, which feature botanical gardens with exotic plants from all over the world.
Meander through the medieval alleys and piazzas of Ascona, and enjoy a meal or drink in one of its many restaurants and bars.
Don’t miss: The Madonna del Sasso, a sanctuary perched high above the lake with spectacular views; the Verzasca Dam, a gravity dam that offers bungee jumping; and the Centovalli Railway, a scenic train ride through the mountains.
Insider travel tips: For the best views of the lake, take the funicular from Locarno up to the Cardada mountain. Consider visiting in the off-season, from November to March, for quieter streets and lower prices.
And if you’re a lover of jazz, be sure to attend the Ascona Jazz Festival, held every year in June.
3. Monte Verita
A hill overlooking the Swiss town of Ascona that has become a center for alternative culture and spiritual pursuits.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the park-like grounds and enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Maggiore.
Visit the museum and learn about the history of the hill and the various communities that have inhabited it over the years.
Attend a yoga or meditation class or join one of the many workshops or events focused on holistic well-being.
Don’t miss: The impressive 35-meter tall “Enlightenment Tree” sculpture, which serves as a symbol of the hill’s dedication to spiritual exploration.
Also, be sure to check out the historic Casa Anatta building, which was once home to artists and writers such as Hermann Hesse and Franz Kafka.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the hilly terrain. The museum is only open from April to November, so plan accordingly.
If you’re interested in attending a workshop or event, be sure to check the schedule in advance as they can fill up quickly.
4. Piazza Ascona
A charming square located in the heart of Ascona, a town in the southern part of Switzerland.
What to see or do: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the square, surrounded by colorful houses, boutiques, and restaurants. Take a stroll along the lake promenade, which offers stunning views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Visit the Church of San Pietro e Paolo, a beautiful baroque church with frescoes and stuccos. Admire the famous statue of the naked woman, known as the “Ascona Madonna,” located at the entrance of the square.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square during the summer months, when it hosts various events and festivals, including the renowned JazzAscona festival. Take a boat ride on Lake Maggiore to explore the nearby islands and towns.
5. Collezione Epper
The Collezione Epper is a private art museum located in Ascona, Switzerland. It was founded by the Swiss artist couple, Heidi and Rolf Epper, who have been collecting art since the 1960s.
What to see or do: Visitors to the Collezione Epper can admire an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries.
The museum’s permanent collection includes works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, Mark Rothko, and Joan Miró, among others.
In addition, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works from various international artists.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the Collezione Epper is the stunning villa in which it is housed. Built in 1909, the villa was completely renovated by the Eppers, who maintained the original architecture while adding contemporary touches.
The museum also offers breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains from its terrace.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is open from April to October, and visitors are advised to check the website for opening hours before visiting.
6. Madonna del Sasso
Madonna del Sasso is a beautiful sanctuary and pilgrimage site located on a hilltop overlooking the picturesque town of Ascona, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The sanctuary is home to a stunning sanctuary church with intricate frescoes and sculptures, a museum showcasing historical artifacts, and a panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: The Chapel of the Apparition where, according to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to the young Franciscan brother Bartolomeo d’Ivrea in 1480.
The chapel is adorned with beautiful frescoes and is a popular spot for contemplation and prayer.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring comfortable shoes as the sanctuary is located on a hilltop and requires a steep climb to reach.
There are also a few different ways to reach it – by foot, by car, or by cable car – so consider your options beforehand.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the sanctuary can get busy during peak tourist season, so try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
7. Old Town
A beautiful and historic district of Ascona, located in southern Switzerland near the Italian border.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the charming cobblestone streets, browse the art galleries and boutiques, enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine in one of the many outdoor cafes, and marvel at the stunning views of Lake Maggiore.
Don’t miss: The Church of San Pietro e Paolo, the Castello dei Baroni, and the Madonna del Sasso Sanctuary.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the low season when the crowds are thinner, and the prices are lower. Take a boat tour around Lake Maggiore for a unique perspective of the town.
Don’t forget to try some of the region’s famous Ticinese cuisine, including risotto and polenta dishes.
8. Ristorante Seven
A modern Italian restaurant located in the picturesque town of Ascona, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Experience a culinary journey with exceptional Italian cuisine that uses fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The menu is inspired by the flavors of southern Italy, and includes delicious pasta dishes, seafood, and meat options.
The restaurant also boasts a carefully curated wine list featuring labels from Italy and Switzerland.
Don’t miss: Try their signature dish, the handmade Garganelli pasta with shrimps, cherry tomatoes, and a light saffron sauce. For dessert, indulge in their Tiramisu or Panna Cotta, both of which are prepared to perfection.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to make a reservation before visiting, as this restaurant tends to get very busy. If the weather is good, request a table outside on the terrace with a stunning view of Lake Maggiore.
Note that the dress code is smart casual and the prices are on the higher side. But the quality of food and service makes it worth the splurge.
9. Alprose Chocolate Museum
Alprose Chocolate Museum is a museum and a factory where visitors can witness the process of chocolate-making from cocoa bean to finished product.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour to see the production and packaging of chocolate bars and pralines. The museum also showcases the history of chocolate and its different uses across cultures.
There is a chocolate store where visitors can purchase a variety of chocolates and souvenirs.
Don’t miss: The tastings! Visitors can try a variety of chocolate bars and hot cocoa drinks at the end of the tour.
There is also a chocolate fountain where guests can dip fruits and snacks to make their own chocolate treats.
Insider travel tips: – The museum can get crowded during peak tourist season, so it is recommended to book tickets in advance.
10. Golfclub Patriziale
Golfclub Patriziale is a picturesque golf course located in the charming town of Ascona, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Enjoy a round of golf at this stunning course surrounded by breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Maggiore. Golfclub Patriziale offers a challenging yet enjoyable course suitable for both experienced and novice players.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a moment during your game to appreciate the beautiful scenery and architecture of the course.
Insider travel tips: Book your tee time in advance to secure a spot on the course. Keep in mind that the course is closed on Mondays.
Before your game, warm up at the club’s practice facilities. After playing, take some time to relax at the clubhouse and savor a meal or drink while enjoying the views.
11. Falconeria Locarno
Falconry center in the picturesque town of Ascona, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Observe trained birds of prey in action during daily demonstrations, learn about the history of falconry, and meet some of the resident birds up close.
Don’t miss: The flight show, where you can witness birds flying over a scenic mountain backdrop. Also, make sure to visit the museum to see the vast collection of falconry-related artifacts.
Insider travel tips: Book in advance if possible, as space for the flight show can be limited.
12. Parco Botanico del Gambarogno
Parco Botanico del Gambarogno is a botanical park located in Ascona, Switzerland. It is situated on a forested hillside overlooking Lake Maggiore and hosts over 900 species of plants.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the park and discover a variety of themed gardens, including a rose garden, a citrus grove, and a Japanese garden.
There are also several scenic hiking trails throughout the park that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the park’s main attraction, a massive granite rock formation that is over 200 million years old.
The park has built a path and a lookout point that allows visitors to take in the beauty of the rock from up close.
Insider travel tips: – The park is open from March through November, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.
13. Galleria Borgo
An art gallery showcasing contemporary art and sculpture in the charming town of Ascona, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Explore the beautifully curated exhibitions highlighting the works of established and emerging artists from various parts of the world. Admire the striking sculptures and installations in the gallery courtyard.
Don’t miss: The permanent exhibition ‘The Time Tunnel’ featuring a stunning collection of kinetic art pieces by Swiss artist Philippe Bünzli. Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque old town of Ascona with its narrow lanes and pretty piazzas.
Insider travel tips: Buy a combination ticket for the gallery and the Museo Comunale d’Arte Moderna, which is housed in the same building. The gallery is closed on Mondays, but open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm.
14. Galleria Jörg Stummer
Galleria Jörg Stummer is an art gallery located in the picturesque town of Ascona, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The gallery showcases contemporary and modern art from both established and emerging artists. You can expect to see a diverse range of art mediums including paintings, sculptures, and photography.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out their schedule of exhibitions and events, as they often host interesting talks and meet-and-greets with the artists.
Insider travel tips: Ascona is a popular tourist destination, so be sure to plan your visit in advance and book your accommodations early.
The gallery is located in the heart of Ascona, so you can easily combine your art viewing with a stroll around the charming town and a visit to one of its many restaurants or cafes.
15. Chiesa di San Pietro e Paolo
Chiesa di San Pietro e Paolo is a beautiful church located in the charming lakeside town of Ascona, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture and interior of the church, which dates back to the 16th century. The intricate paintings and frescoes add to the church’s beauty and holy atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the intricate details of the church’s architecture and the mesmerizing artwork depicting various scenes from the Bible.
Insider travel tips: – Check the opening hours of the church before visiting as they can vary depending on the season.
16. Tenero Contra Beach
Tenero Contra Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located in the town of Tenero-Contra in Ascona.
What to see or do: Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water of Lake Maggiore or simply sunbathe on the beach while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Take a walk along the promenade and explore the nearby parks and gardens. There are also several restaurants and cafes serving delicious local cuisine.
Insider travel tips: It can get quite crowded during peak season, so try to arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach.
Additionally, parking can be limited, so consider taking public transportation or walking if possible.