Five Things to See and Do in Morcote, One of Switzerland’s Most Beautiful Villages

By Rashmi Gopal Rao

Situated on the shores of Lake Lugano, Morcote to use the cliche is a picture-perfect Swiss village which looks straight out of the pages of a fairy tale book.  This erstwhile fishing village which won the award for “The most beautiful village in Switzerland” in 2016 was awarded the “Best Tourism Villages” by the UNWTO (World Tourism Organization) in 2023.

A view of Morcote Promenade

An easy day trip from Zurich, Morcote is situated in the canton of Ticino and lies in the Italian speaking quarter of the country.  With oodles of Mediterranean flair, there is plenty of things you can do in this picturesque village.  Here are five things to see and do.

A view of Lake Lugano in Morcote

Take a Stroll along the Promenade

Walk along the beautiful lake side while soaking in the panoramic beauty all around.  Choose to take a boat ride on the placid waters, swim in the summer season or just relax on one of the benches as the sun goes down. 

Boating on Lake Lugano

There are plenty of chic cafes and restaurants serving delectable Italian fare making it perfect for a get together with family and friends or also a date with your special one.

Restaurants on the promenade in Morcote

Explore Old Patrician Homes

The entire old town is a quarter full of narrow alleys and old patrician homes replete with stone archways.

Inside Morcote Old Town

 These archways served as a meeting point for fishermen who used the space to clean their nets and also sold their produce. Palazzo Paleari as well as Torre del Capitano are stone towers that are prominent medieval landmarks in the village not to be missed.

Arches of Medieval homes in Morcote

Visit Santa Maria del Sasso (Saint Mary of the Rock)

This 15th century Renaissance-Baroque church is accessible via a flight of 400 steps and is known for its exquisite paintings and stunning architecture. 

Inside Santa Maria del Sasso

The vicinity also houses the chapel of Saint Anthony of Padua which dates back to the 17th century.  Do not miss the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape as you climb to the top.

A view of Saint Anthony of Padua

Savour the Signature Gelato and Shop for Souvenirs

Food souvenirs in Morcote

While here do not miss Morcote’s signature gelato which is available in a plethora of flavours.  The space beneath the arches is teeming with little shops selling souvenirs like ceramics, handmade pottery, trinkets and even pasta.

Souvenirs in Morcote

Visit attractions near by

Close to Morcote is Swissminiatur which is Switzerland’s largest open air miniature museum.  With adorable models of all major Switzerland’s monuments, this museum is definitely worth a visit.  Further, the largest city in Ticino, Lugano is just 12 km away and is worth a visit.

Inside Swissminiatur

For more details read my article on Morcote in The Telegraph.