Cattedrale San Lorenzo
Lugano, Switzerland • 
Underrated
Underrated
Best months to visit
Jun, Jul, Aug
16°C – 25°C, warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, but with the risk of afternoon thunderstorms and rain, high crowds, peak season
16°C – 25°C, warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, but with the risk of afternoon thunderstorms and rain, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Access requires walking uphill with steps, no ramps or elevators present.
Access requires walking uphill with steps, no ramps or elevators present.
Value for money
High
Free entry makes it a great value for the experience.
Free entry makes it a great value for the experience.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Romantic Setting
Couples found the cathedral's serene atmosphere perfect for a romantic experience.
Breathtaking Views
Travelers raved about the stunning panoramic views of Lugano and the lake.
Peaceful Escape
Couples appreciated the tranquil interior, a welcome respite from the city.
Uphill Walk
Some couples found the uphill walk from the city center a bit challenging.
Crowded Interior
Visitors noted that the interior could get crowded, limiting quiet moments.
Tower Access
Access to the tower can be inconsistent, causing disappointment for some.
How to book
ViatorRECOMMENDED
Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
2h - 3h
4.8
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USD 45
per_person
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GetyourguidePremium Experience with Hotel Pickup
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before
4h - 5h
4.9
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USD 70
per_person
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KlookPrivate Full-Day Tour
Non-refundable
8h - 10h
5.0
from
USD 120
per_person
BOOK
Hours of operation
Monday
06:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Tuesday
06:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Wednesday
06:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Thursday
06:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Friday
06:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Saturday
06:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Sunday
06:30 AM - 06:00 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
A must-visit landmark, Cattedrale San Lorenzo blends historical depth with architectural beauty.
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
LOW
-
Open
Not recommended
January
LOW
1-7°C
January in Lugano is cold, with average temperatures ranging from 1°C to 7°C. Precipitation is relatively low, but humidity remains high, and snow is possible. Days are short with limited sunshine.
January in Lugano is cold, with average temperatures ranging from 1°C to 7°C. Precipitation is relatively low, but humidity remains high, and snow is possible. Days are short with limited sunshine.
Open
No special restrictions, but shorter daylight and potential for reduced opening hours on holidays.
No special restrictions, but shorter daylight and potential for reduced opening hours on holidays.
Not recommended
Visiting Cattedrale San Lorenzo in January offers a peaceful experience, though cold weather and shorter daylight hours may limit outdoor exploration.
Visiting Cattedrale San Lorenzo in January offers a peaceful experience, though cold weather and shorter daylight hours may limit outdoor exploration.
February
LOW
2-9°C
February remains cold with slightly rising temperatures. Rain or occasional snow may occur, though overall precipitation is low. Humidity is high and days gradually become longer.
February remains cold with slightly rising temperatures. Rain or occasional snow may occur, though overall precipitation is low. Humidity is high and days gradually become longer.
Open
Generally open, but check for possible closures during religious holidays.
Generally open, but check for possible closures during religious holidays.
Not recommended
February is suitable for those seeking solitude and indoor cultural visits, but weather conditions are still wintery.
February is suitable for those seeking solitude and indoor cultural visits, but weather conditions are still wintery.
March
MEDIUM
5-14°C
March brings milder temperatures and longer days. Rain becomes more frequent but is generally moderate.
March brings milder temperatures and longer days. Rain becomes more frequent but is generally moderate.
Open
No major restrictions expected; standard opening hours.
No major restrictions expected; standard opening hours.
Recommended
March is a pleasant time to visit, with comfortable weather for sightseeing and fewer tourists than in peak months.
March is a pleasant time to visit, with comfortable weather for sightseeing and fewer tourists than in peak months.
How to get there
Cable Car
Recommended
The Funicolare Lugano-Stazione, also known as "Sassellina," has an intermediate stop named Cattedrale, which is just a 2-minute walk from the cathedral itself.
Train
Recommended
The main railway station, Stazione di Lugano, is a major hub. From the station, the cathedral is a short, uphill walk of approximately 4 minutes.
Walking
Recommended
The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo is easily accessible on foot, particularly for those already in the city center or arriving at the train station. The walk from the train station is uphill but short.
Bike
Lugano is a bike-friendly city. The funicular also allows for the transport of bicycles at certain times, providing an easier way to manage the uphill journey.
Bus
Numerous bus lines service the area around the cathedral. The closest bus stop is Lugano, Stazione, a 4-minute walk away. Key routes include C112, 2, 4, 5, and 6.
Car
Travelers arriving by car will find several parking options in the vicinity of the cathedral, including Garage San Lorenzo and Garage Centrale.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Lugano and offer a direct and convenient way to reach the cathedral. A taxi ride from the immediate Lugano area to the cathedral is estimated to take about 3 minutes.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required