Monte San Salvatore
Lugano, Switzerland • USD 28 - USD 32 approx.• 
Underrated
Underrated
Best months to visit
Jul, Aug
17°C – 28°C, hot and sunny summer weather, interspersed with brief rain showers or thunderstorms, high crowds, peak season
17°C – 28°C, hot and sunny summer weather, interspersed with brief rain showers or thunderstorms, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Funicular is accessible; summit paths have steps and inclines.[6][9][10]
Funicular is accessible; summit paths have steps and inclines.[6][9][10]
Value for money
Medium
Pricey, but the views and experience are generally worth it.
Pricey, but the views and experience are generally worth it.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Breathtaking Views
Couples loved the romantic vistas of Lake Lugano and the Alps from the top!
Romantic Escape
Perfect for couples. The views and peaceful atmosphere are just amazing. Highly recommend!
Scenic Funicular
The funicular ride itself was an experience, offering stunning views during ascent!
Weather Dependent
Visibility can be an issue. Check the forecast before you go to see the views.
Cost Considerations
The ticket price is a bit high. Discounts are available, so check before buying.
Limited Accessibility
Some paths have steps; may be difficult for those with mobility issues, couples should consider.
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
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USD 70
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KlookPrivate Full-Day Tour
Non-refundable
8h - 10h
5.0
from
USD 120
per_person
BOOK
Hours of operation
Monday
09:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Tuesday
09:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Wednesday
09:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Thursday
09:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Friday
09:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday
09:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday
09:00 AM - 06:00 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
The ideal spot for hikers and photographers, Monte San Salvatore promises alpine wonders.
Discover Monte San Salvatore’s tranquil charm and iconic vistas of Lugano’s vibrant cityscape.
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
1-7°C
Cold, with possible snowfall, short daylight hours, and damp conditions.
Cold, with possible snowfall, short daylight hours, and damp conditions.
Open
Funicular operates on winter schedule; some restaurant and museum services may be limited.
Funicular operates on winter schedule; some restaurant and museum services may be limited.
Not recommended
December is generally not recommended for panoramic views. Winter conditions prevail and most activities are restricted.
December is generally not recommended for panoramic views. Winter conditions prevail and most activities are restricted.
January
LOW
0-7°C
Cold winter conditions with possible rain or light snow. The summit can be chilly and damp, with limited sunshine.
Cold winter conditions with possible rain or light snow. The summit can be chilly and damp, with limited sunshine.
Closed
Funicular usually closed for annual winter maintenance; hiking access possible but not recommended due to weather.
Funicular usually closed for annual winter maintenance; hiking access possible but not recommended due to weather.
Not recommended
January is not ideal for visiting Monte San Salvatore due to cold weather and limited accessibility. The funicular typically does not operate, and hiking can be unsafe or unpleasant.
January is not ideal for visiting Monte San Salvatore due to cold weather and limited accessibility. The funicular typically does not operate, and hiking can be unsafe or unpleasant.
February
LOW
1-9°C
Cold with occasional rainfall; sporadic sunny days but mostly cloudy. Snow is rare but possible.
Cold with occasional rainfall; sporadic sunny days but mostly cloudy. Snow is rare but possible.
Closed
Funicular remains closed for winter; hiking is possible but not advised due to weather and possible muddy trails.
Funicular remains closed for winter; hiking is possible but not advised due to weather and possible muddy trails.
Not recommended
February is still off-season with limited access to Monte San Salvatore. The funicular does not run, and conditions for outdoor activities are poor.
February is still off-season with limited access to Monte San Salvatore. The funicular does not run, and conditions for outdoor activities are poor.
March
MEDIUM
4-13°C
Mild temperatures with more frequent sunny days. Rain showers are common but less intense; early spring flowers may be visible.
Mild temperatures with more frequent sunny days. Rain showers are common but less intense; early spring flowers may be visible.
Open
Funicular usually reopens mid-March; check specific dates as annual maintenance may extend into the month.
Funicular usually reopens mid-March; check specific dates as annual maintenance may extend into the month.
Recommended
March is a transitional month with improving weather and the reopening of facilities. It's a good time for hiking and panoramic views, though occasional rain is likely.
March is a transitional month with improving weather and the reopening of facilities. It's a good time for hiking and panoramic views, though occasional rain is likely.
How to get there
Bus
Recommended
Take bus lines 1, 2, or 434 to stops near the funicular base station in Paradiso.
Cable Car
Recommended
The Monte San Salvatore funicular ascends directly to the summit from Paradiso.
Train
Recommended
Take the train to Paradiso station, a short walk from the funicular.
Boat
Take a boat to the Paradiso (lago) dock, a short walk from the funicular.
Car
Drive to the funicular station and use the paid parking lot.
Taxi
Taxis are available in Lugano and provide direct access to the Monte San Salvatore funicular.
Walking
Walk from Lugano city center or the main train station to the funicular base in Paradiso.
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 allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required
Age
Ages up to 99