What to Do in Ascona
Ascona — things to do and places to visit
Ascona is a charming town in Ticino, on the shores of Lake Maggiore, known for its Mediterranean atmosphere, colorful promenade and historic old town. Whether you're visiting for a day or exploring the region, Ascona offers a mix of lakeside life, art, culture and Swiss-Italian charm. You'll find beautiful scenery and memorable experiences — including an outdoor escape game through its harbor streets and historic alleys.
Top activities in Ascona
Escape Game in Ascona — Outdoor Adventure on Lake Maggiore
Explore Ascona's charming old town, uncover hidden clues along the iconic Piazza Giuseppe Motta lakeside promenade and discover the secrets of one of Ticino's most beloved destinations — all while solving puzzles with breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. One of the most unique group activities in Ascona, with over 500 reviews and a 4.7/5 rating. Playable anytime without booking.
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Piazza Giuseppe Motta — The Iconic Lakeside Promenade
The car-free lakeside promenade of Ascona is one of the most beautiful in Switzerland — a row of colorful historic buildings, waterfront cafés and restaurants stretching along the shores of Lake Maggiore. The Piazza Giuseppe Motta is the heart of Ascona's social life and the perfect place to experience the town's unique Mediterranean atmosphere. Walking the promenade at sunset is one of the most iconic things to do in Ascona at any time of year.
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Isole di Brissago — Botanical Gardens on Lake Maggiore
A short boat trip from Ascona brings you to the Isole di Brissago — two small islands on Lake Maggiore home to the only botanical garden in Switzerland. Thanks to the area's unique Mediterranean microclimate, the garden is home to exotic plants from Chile, Japan, South Africa and Australia. A perfect half-day trip from Ascona and one of the most unique natural experiences on Lake Maggiore.
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Monte Verità — The Mountain of Truth
Above Ascona rises Monte Verità — one of the most fascinating cultural landmarks in Ticino. At the beginning of the 20th century a colony of free thinkers, artists, philosophers and writers settled here in search of an alternative way of life, attracting figures like Hermann Hesse and Carl Jung. Today the mountain hosts a museum, a hotel and a park with panoramic views over Lake Maggiore. A unique and thought-provoking stop on any visit to Ascona.
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Ascona Old Town — Borgo and Chiesa dei Santi Pietro e Paolo
Ascona's old town Borgo is a maze of narrow alleyways, art galleries, boutiques and historic buildings leading down to the lakefront. At its heart stands the Chiesa dei Santi Pietro e Paolo — a 16th-century church with a beautiful bell tower visible from miles around and frescoes by the 17th-century painter Giovanni Serodine. One of the most rewarding walks in Ascona for anyone interested in art, history and authentic Swiss-Italian atmosphere.
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JazzAscona and Lake Maggiore Beach
Ascona is home to one of Switzerland's most prestigious international jazz festivals — JazzAscona brings the spirit of New Orleans to the shores of Lake Maggiore every summer for ten days. Beyond the festival season, the Lido di Ascona is one of the best beaches on Lake Maggiore for swimming and sunbathing, with calm waters and views of the surrounding mountains. One of the most enjoyable outdoor things to do in Ascona in summer.
What to do in Ascona — Frequently Asked Questions
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