The biggest attraction in Lugano, and probably the reason you were drawn to the city in the first place, is the gorgeous lake it sits on. Take your time to walk along the lakeside and if you’re brave you can even dip your toes in! On one side of the lake towards Cassarate, you will find the very well-groomed park, Parco Civico Ciani, where people of all ages stroll, walk their dogs, bring picnic lunches, gossip on park benches and even take a dip in the lake when the weather allows it. As you walk along the lake you will see a few different places where you can rent paddle boats for a few hours. Paddling a small boat out on the lake is the best excuse to justify your gelato consumption while giving you a different perspective on the city.
If you want a little bit more adventure, why not hike Monte Brè, take the funicular up to the top and walk around the summit, or you can just take the funicular up and enjoy the gorgeous view without breaking a sweat. There are many different routes of varying difficulties, so you and your travel buddies should hopefully be able to find something to agree upon. At the top of the funicular, there is the sweetest little village with nice restaurants and shops to accompany the amazing view.