Locarno

Locarno is one of Switzerland’s sunniest and most relaxed regions, offering a blend of Italian-style charm, dramatic Alpine scenery, turquoise rivers, stone villages and the wide, calm waters of Lake Maggiore. For families who enjoy nature, gentle adventures and flexible days outdoors, Locarno provides a destination that is easy to navigate and full of variety. Life here moves at a slower pace, allowing days to flow naturally between the lake, the valleys and the quiet historic streets.

Locarno works especially well for families with children aged 5-18 who appreciate short walks, scenic viewpoints, easy water activities and atmospheric places for photography. Public transport is available, but renting a car makes the experience smoother-especially when visiting the valleys Maggia (Valle Maggia) and Verzasca (Valle Verzasca), or when exploring small villages and waterfalls at your own rhythm.

How do you get around Locarno, and is renting a car necessary?

Locarno is well connected by trains and buses, and the source materials show how easily visitors can reach Valle Maggia and Valle Verzasca from the city. However, for families, a rental car offers a clear advantage-especially when carrying beach bags, extra clothes for river stops or photography equipment.

Advantages of renting a car:

• Reaching villages such as Foroglio and Fontana is significantly easier by car.
• You can stop spontaneously at bridges, small waterfalls or scenic points along the rivers.
• Public transport in the valleys becomes more limited in the evening.
• Although Brissago Islands (Isole di Brissago), Ascona and the Centovalli Railway are accessible without a car, driving allows the day to unfold more naturally for families.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: when travelling through the valleys, aim to visit the main spots in the morning, when the light is softer and crowds are smaller.

When is the best time to visit Locarno?

The files describe Locarno as having a mild, pleasant climate that often feels more Italian than Swiss. Each season offers a different experience for families:

• Spring – rivers run high, temperatures are comfortable and nature begins to open.
• Summer – ideal for swimming, valley day trips and evening activities in Piazza Grande during events.
• Autumn – quieter days with warm colours across the valleys; perfect for families looking to avoid crowds.
• Winter – milder than most Swiss regions, suitable for relaxed walks and for combining Locarno with other towns in Ticino.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: during summer, especially around the Locarno Film Festival, book accommodation in advance.

Morning coffee in Piazza Grande – the most perfect way to start a day in Locarno. Beautiful colors, warm atmosphere, and pure holiday vibes.

Top Things to See in Locarno

Is the Locarno lakeside promenade (Lungolago Giuseppe Motta) worth it?

Yes. Multiple video descriptions highlight this promenade as one of the most scenic areas in Locarno. Palm trees line the walkway, colourful boats rest along the lake, and wide views of Lake Maggiore create an easy, relaxing atmosphere. Families can walk, take photos, sit on shaded benches or enjoy ice cream with a view.

A gentle lakeside walk continues from Locarno toward Minusio, passing small harbours and quiet corners that are ideal for an evening stroll.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: late afternoon light creates warm reflections on the lake-excellent for family photography.

Why is Piazza Grande considered the heart of Locarno?

Based on the files, Piazza Grande acts as an open-air stage rather than a typical town square. In summer, a large outdoor screen transforms the space during the Locarno Film Festival, making the piazza lively and energetic. Families gather in the evenings, restaurants extend onto the square and children move freely between the chairs.

Its location near the narrow streets of the Old Town makes it easy to combine with a short walk through boutiques or cafés.

Should you explore Locarno’s Old Town and Parco Città?

Yes. The Old Town (Città Vecchia) features stone alleys, pastel buildings and small shops that create a pleasant, compact walking area. Nearby, Parco Città appears in several videos as a green “oasis” in the centre of town, offering shaded seating and open lawns.

Is Ascona worth adding to your Locarno itinerary?

Absolutely. Ascona is repeatedly described as a close, picturesque lakeside town with an Italian-style promenade, gelato terraces and a calm, elegant atmosphere. Families often combine a half-day in Locarno with an evening in Ascona.

It is reachable by car, bus or even a walk along the lakeside.

Are the Brissago Islands (Isole di Brissago) suitable for families?

Yes. The islands form a large botanical garden with plants from around the world and easy circular paths suitable for children. Several sources note that the boat ride is part of the experience, offering beautiful views of Locarno and Ascona from the lake.

Prices (from Locarno цены.txt):

• Adults: 10 CHF
• Children up to 16: free
• Ascona-Locarno card: 8 CHF
• Winter rate: 5 CHF

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: visit early in the morning to avoid weekend crowding.

Should you visit Valle Verzasca?

Yes. According to the files, Valle Verzasca is one of the region’s most photographed areas. Highlights include:

• Lavertezzo with the stone bridge Ponte dei Salti
• Turquoise river pools
• Short, family-friendly trails
• Contra Dam, featured in the “GoldenEye” opening scene

Morning visits provide brighter water and calmer conditions.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: avoid midday hours when possible to reduce parking and crowd challenges.

Is Valle Maggia family-friendly?

Very much so. The files emphasise Valle Maggia as quieter and wider than Verzasca. Key points include:

• Fontana, with small bridges and shallow waters
• Foroglio, a stone village with a dramatic waterfall just one minute from the parking area
• Gentle routes, animals in nearby fields and wide green slopes

Is the Centovalli Railway worth the trip?

Yes. The panoramic train is described as one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the region, passing through valleys, over bridges and through tunnels.

Ticket prices (from Locarno цены.txt):

• Day ticket: 12 CHF (adult) / 8 CHF (child)
• Tourist return ticket: 30 CHF (adult) / 15 CHF (child)
• Panoramic carriage supplement: 1.50 CHF

Travellers consistently note that the right-hand side offers the best views when leaving Locarno.

Should families take a boat trip on Lake Maggiore?

Yes. Boat rides give children time to rest and parents a chance to enjoy quiet views of the shoreline.

Prices (from Locarno цены.txt):

• Locarno → Ascona (2nd class): 11 CHF
• Brissago by bus/ferry: 4-7 CHF

Short routes do not require advance booking.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: midday winds create a refreshing breeze-pleasant after time spent in the sun.

Locarno – 2-Day Family Itinerary

Day 1 – Lakeside Promenade, Old Town, and Evening in Ascona

10:00 – Walk the Locarno Lakeside Promenade (Lungolago Giuseppe Motta)
Begin your day with a relaxed walk along the palm-lined lakeside. Expect colourful boats, shaded benches and wide views over Lake Maggiore.
Duration: ~1 hour, walking.

11:30 – Continue toward Minusio on foot
A flat, easy walk of 20-25 minutes leads you along the shoreline. Small piers and quiet viewing points make it ideal for photo stops or a quick gelato break.
Duration: ~45 minutes including stops.

13:00 – Lunch near the lakeside
The promenade area offers simple, family-friendly options such as pizza, pasta and fresh salads. Choose a shaded terrace for a mid-day pause.

15:00 – Explore Città Vecchia and Parco Città
Walk through stone alleys, pastel façades and small shops before continuing to Parco Città, a green space described as a central “oasis” in the files.
Duration: 1-1.5 hours.

17:00 – Head to Ascona
Travel 10 minutes by car or bus. Enjoy the lakeside promenade, calm atmosphere and scenic views.
18:00 – Dinner in Ascona
Choose a lakeside restaurant, then return to Locarno for the night.

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Day 2 – Valle Maggia, Valle Verzasca & Scenic Highlights

10:00 – Drive to Fontana (Valle Maggia)
A 25-35 minute drive takes you to shallow streams, small bridges and quiet nature-ideal for children to explore safely.
Duration: ~1 hour.

11:30 – Continue to Foroglio
A short 10-minute drive brings you to one of the area’s most striking spots. The Foroglio waterfall is only one minute from the parking area.
Duration: ~1 hour.

13:00 – Picnic by the river
The files note that restaurants in the valley may be closed outside peak season. A simple picnic works perfectly.

15:00 – Drive to Lavertezzo (Valle Verzasca)
Visit the iconic stone bridge Ponte dei Salti, turquoise pools and smooth river rocks.
Duration: ~1 hour.

17:00 – Return to Locarno

18:00 – Dinner at Grotto Brini (Losone)
According to the files, Grotto Brini is known for grilled chicken and risotto.
Travel time: 10-15 minutes by car.
Arrive early on weekends, as the restaurant fills quickly.

Couldn’t believe this color is real! Valle Verzasca looks like a natural swimming pool hidden between the rocks. One of the most peaceful spots of our trip.

Traveller Reviews of Locarno

Emma Collins, June 2019

I visited Locarno with my two children, and the lakeside promenade quickly became our daily routine. We often walked all the way to Minusio, stopping for gelato and photos along the way. Spending the evening in Ascona was a perfect finish. Early in the season it was difficult to find lunch options in Valle Maggia, so we switched to a picnic by the river, which ended up being even better.

Michael Grant, July 2021

The boat trip to the Brissago Islands was the highlight for us. My kids loved wandering through the botanical paths as if exploring a small jungle. It became busy around midday, so going early is definitely the better choice. We ended the day with pizza by the promenade-simple and exactly what we needed.

Laura Bennett, September 2018

We took the Centovalli Railway on a quiet weekday, and the scenery changed constantly-bridges, forests and tiny villages. It was the relaxing day we needed after exploring Lavertezzo and the turquoise pools. One tip: choose the right side when leaving Locarno; the views are noticeably better.

Daniel Harris, August 2022

Locarno works wonderfully for families. We walked through Città Vecchia, grabbed focaccia near Piazza Grande and cooled off at the lake. Dinner at Osteria La Fabrica was surprisingly fun with its lively atmosphere, pinball machines and large beer selection. A bit loud for younger kids, but great for teens.

Sarah Mitchell, April 2023

Foroglio left a lasting impression. The waterfall is enormous and only a minute from the parking area, which helped with two young children. Many restaurants were closed early in the season, so we brought sandwiches and ate by the stream. The kids spent half an hour just skipping stones.

Jason Miller, June 2024

We drove through Valle Verzasca and stopped at Lavertezzo. The bridge, the rocks and the bright turquoise water looked even better in person. It was busy around midday, but after 4 PM it became much calmer and more enjoyable for our family.

Hannah Roberts, September 2021

Ascona completely surprised me. The lakeside felt like a small Italian holiday town-colourful, relaxed and very picturesque. We reached it from Locarno in ten minutes and walked back along the water at sunset. It was one of the most peaceful moments of our entire trip.

David Armstrong, July 2025

We finally visited Grotto Brini in Losone, and the grilled chicken really was excellent. The place fills quickly on weekends, so arriving early is important. Our family enjoyed the friendly local atmosphere-a great way to end a full day in the valleys.

Olivia Turner, May 2018

Locarno was incredibly easy to navigate, even without a car. However, for spots like Foroglio and Lavertezzo, driving made the day smoother. Piazza Grande in the evening was beautiful with its lights and lively atmosphere. We immediately felt welcome.

Ethan Brooks, October 2024

We visited Locarno in autumn, and it was perfect-mild weather and far fewer crowds. After a short walk above the town, we watched the sunset from the lakeside promenade. Sometimes the simplest moments become the ones you remember most.

Tips from the Itinerary Expert

• Visit the valleys early in the morning.
  In both Valle Verzasca and Valle Maggia, the light is softer, the turquoise water looks brighter and the area is far less crowded. Some of my best family photos were taken before 11:00.
• Bring simple picnic food when exploring the valleys.
  In Foroglio and Lavertezzo, restaurants may open late or remain closed outside peak season. I learned this the hard way, so now I always pack snacks and enjoy lunch by the river.
• Use a car when visiting Foroglio or Lavertezzo.
  Public transport works, but a car gives you the freedom to stop spontaneously at bridges, waterfalls and shallow streams. Many of our favourite family moments were from unplanned stops.
• Choose the right side on the Centovalli Railway.
  When leaving Locarno, sit on the right-hand side. From experience, this side offers the most dramatic views of the valleys, cliffs and small villages-especially for photography.
• Arrive early for the Brissago Islands ferry.
  The first boats of the day are quiet, allowing children to explore the botanical paths freely. By noon, the island becomes noticeably busier, particularly on weekends.
• Plan an evening in Ascona.
  After active days outdoors, Ascona’s lakeside promenade provides a calm, beautiful atmosphere. The soft evening light is excellent for family photos and a relaxing end to the day.
• Carry light jackets, even in summer.
  Weather around the lake and valleys can change quickly. I always keep thin layers in my backpack, especially for boat rides or shaded river areas.
• If you want to try Grotto Brini, arrive early.
  The restaurant fills fast on weekends. Once I waited nearly an hour, so arriving before peak dinner time ensures a smoother experience.
• Walk the Locarno promenade at sunset.
  Lungolago Giuseppe Motta displays beautiful reflections on the mountains in the evening. This calm walk is a perfect way to end a full day with the family.
• Make spontaneous stops in small villages.
  On the way to the valleys, I often discover tiny bridges or shallow streams that the kids enjoy more than major attractions. Leaving room for improvisation leads to some of the best memories.

Insights from the Itinerary Expert

I last visited Locarno in May 2023, and it reminded me how naturally this region suits families seeking scenery, accessible nature and a relaxed Mediterranean rhythm without demanding hikes. One moment that stayed with me was arriving in Foroglio (Valle Maggia) just after light rain. The waterfall looked stronger, the air felt fresh, and within a minute of stepping out of the car we were standing in front of a dramatic cliff face that felt almost unreal.

During that visit, I also learned how many restaurants in the valleys open late or remain closed outside peak season. Because of this, I now always carry a small picnic-there are plenty of wooden benches by the river where children can rest and play. Another practical lesson came from riding the Centovalli Railway: choosing the right-hand side when leaving Locarno truly does provide the most impressive views. Even the kids stayed absorbed as the train crossed bridges and moved through narrow valleys.

Evenings in Ascona quickly became a quiet ritual. After full days outdoors, walking the lakeside promenade with its soft light and colourful buildings was the perfect way to slow the pace. The only recurring challenge was summer crowding, especially on weekends, but arriving early at major spots like Lavertezzo or the Brissago Islands always made the day smoother.

Locarno is a destination that rewards families with beauty, water, gentle adventure and flexible, unhurried days. I invite you to create a personalised itinerary with me-one that will help your family discover the most memorable corners of this remarkable region of Switzerland.

Locarno from above – the lake, the mountains, the sunlight… it’s impossible not to fall in love with this view.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Locarno

Is renting a car necessary for exploring Locarno and the valleys?

Yes. A car makes it much easier to reach Valle Verzasca, Valle Maggia, Foroglio and other small villages. Public transport is available, but schedules in the valleys may be limited, especially in the evening.

Can families reach Valle Verzasca using public transport?

Yes. Buses run to Lavertezzo and other parts of the valley, but frequency varies throughout the day. Planning ahead is recommended for families travelling with children.

Is a visit to the Brissago Islands (Isole di Brissago) suitable for kids?

Absolutely. The islands function as a botanical park with easy walking paths and plenty of open space. Children can explore the vegetation freely. Regular boats connect the islands with Locarno.

What is the best time of day to visit the valleys? (first-hand)

From my experience, mornings are ideal. In both Valle Maggia and Valle Verzasca, the light is softer, the water looks brighter and the area is noticeably quieter.

Are restaurants available in the rural areas?

Some, but not always. In villages such as Foroglio and Lavertezzo, restaurants may remain closed outside peak season. Bringing snacks or a simple picnic is often the most practical option.

Is the Centovalli Railway suitable for young children?

Yes. The ride is gentle, scenic and short enough to keep kids engaged. Files indicate ticket options such as 12 CHF for adults and 8 CHF for children for a basic day ticket.

Is Locarno a good choice for families who prefer nature over long hikes?

Yes. Many of the region’s highlights require minimal walking. Foroglio Waterfall is one minute from the parking area, Lavertezzo offers easy river access and the lakeside promenade is flat and comfortable.

How crowded does Locarno get in summer? (first-hand)

When I visited in July, the lakeside and Piazza Grande were noticeably busy in the evening. Visiting the valleys or Brissago Islands early in the day helped avoid most of the crowds.

Is a lake cruise worth adding to a family itinerary?

Yes. Short cruises between Locarno and Ascona or to the Brissago Islands are easy, relaxing and scenic. The files list prices such as 11 CHF for the Locarno-Ascona route (2nd class).

Can you walk from Locarno to Minusio along the lake?

Yes. The promenade offers a smooth, beautiful walk with palm trees, benches and viewpoints. It is ideal for families who want a gentle, relaxing activity after an active day.

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