Lugano, Switzerland: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Lugano, Switzerland? If you're planning to go to Lugano, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Lugano
- Important essentials for Lugano
- Activities for Lugano
- Lugano in January: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in February: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in March: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in April: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in May: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in June: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in July: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in August: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in September: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in October: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in November: weather and what to pack
- Lugano in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Lugano, Switzerland
Based on the climate and weather in Lugano, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
Important essentials for Lugano, Switzerland
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lugano, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID protection you can have.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards frequently wear out. An unreadable vaccination card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks aren't sold for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
General health necessities
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
-
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. This one is sufficent for most areas, but check with your hotel.
-
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lugano. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
-
For families with young children
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Airplane or car necessities
What to wear/what to pack for Lugano, Switzerland by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Lugano is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. There is frost about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Jacket or coat
-
Fleece
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Lugano, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a great option.
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
If you vacation in Lugano during February, you are likely to see that it can be very chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. There is frost regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Lugano, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is an excellent option.
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
March in Lugano is relatively cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). It tends to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
-
Extra socks
-
Dresses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
If you vacation in Lugano during April, you are likely to see that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Dresses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
Pants or jeans
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
May is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Dresses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Extra socks
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
If you vacation in Lugano during June, you are likely to find that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light skirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sandals
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
If you go to Lugano in July, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Extra socks
-
Light skirts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Sandals
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
In August, Lugano is warm. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Lugano, with of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sandals
-
Extra socks
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Light skirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
If you vacation in Lugano during September, you will probably see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Bug repellent
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Light skirts
-
Sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
If you vacation in Lugano during October, you might see that it is crisp. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Dresses
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Extra socks
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
November in Lugano is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). It tends to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Dresses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
December in Lugano is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain regularly. There is frost regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
If you are intending to check out the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
If you go to the Museo Cantonale d’Arte, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Activities for Lugano, Switzerland
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Lugano.
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