Hotels in Ascona

Awaken Your Senses in Ascona: A Hidden Gem of Hills and Blossoms

Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Maggiore, Ascona, in the Canton of Ticino, is a charming blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. This captivating lakeside town features a stunning beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming, while the hilly landscapes invite exploration. Stroll through the colorful streets of the historic center, where art galleries and delightful cafes await. Just a short trip to the Valle Verzasca reveals breathtaking natural parks and lush flower-filled trails. Ascona is a romantic escape, offering serene lakeside views and enchanting sunsets—a true gem for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. For the best hotel rates in Ascona and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Ascona

Some of the best places to stay in Ascona are Lugano City-Centre, Carona and Breganzona. Lugano City-Centre, Carona, and Breganzona offer unique experiences for travelers. Lugano City-Centre is vibrant with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Carona boasts charming landscapes and hiking trails, perfect for nature lovers, while Breganzona offers a quieter, residential vibe. Accommodations range from luxury hotels to boutique options, with various price points to suit different budgets. Many hotels in the area also provide villa-style stays for a more private experience. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Ascona:

1. Lugano City-CentreOpens in a new window: Lugano City-Centre is a vibrant hub for both business and leisure travelers. It's known for its stunning lakeside views, cultural attractions like LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura, and shopping along Via Nassa. The area offers a mix of family activities and business amenities, making it an ideal location for diverse travelers. For accommodations, consider Hotel Splendide RoyalOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel that features adventure sports and family-friendly amenities. Another option is Villa Principe LeopoldoOpens in a new window, which offers pet-friendly services and multiple meeting rooms for business guests. The View LuganoOpens in a new window provides a boutique experience with unique decor and amenities for children.
2. CaronaOpens in a new window: Nestled in the scenic hills, Carona is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Its attractions include Swissminiatur and Monte San Salvatore, providing ample opportunities for family fun and adventure. The serene environment is ideal for relaxation or exploring nature. Hotel CoronadoOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers a range of business amenities. Alternatively, Lo Scudo di StabioOpens in a new window focuses on adventure themes and provides access to outdoor activities like horse riding, making it a great choice for thrill-seekers. Swiss Diamond Hotel & SPAOpens in a new window offers a luxury experience with excellent business services and a golf course.
3. BreganzonaOpens in a new window: Breganzona is a charming area known for its proximity to cultural landmarks and business venues like Palazzo dei Congressi. Its outdoor spaces and family-friendly attractions make it appealing to various travelers. Giardino AsconaOpens in a new window is an upscale 5-star hotel that caters to families and business travelers alike, with exceptional amenities for children. Castello del Sole Beach Resort & SPAOpens in a new window provides direct beach access and natural hot springs, ensuring a relaxing getaway. For those seeking adventure, Hotel Eden RocOpens in a new window offers a variety of water sports and recreational activities, making it an exciting place to stay.

Things to do in Ascona for first time

Nestled by the shores of a stunning lake, Ascona offers a perfect blend of hilly landscapes, lush forests, and serene beaches. Spend three days enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and swimming, while soaking in the natural beauty and vibrant floral surroundings that inspire every traveler. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Ascona:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at the vibrant Piazza Grande, a picturesque square filled with shops, cafés, and a lively atmosphere. Take some time to soak in the local culture and perhaps enjoy a coffee at one of the outdoor terraces. Afterward, head to the stunning Parco delle Camelie, a serene park known for its beautiful camellia flowers and tranquil pathways—perfect for a leisurely stroll. Conclude your day with a visit to the Giardini Jean Arp, where you can appreciate the blend of nature and art, making it a delightful spot to unwind and reflect on your adventures.
• Day 2: Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of the Old Town, where you can admire the historic architecture and quaint shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Madonna del Sasso, a stunning sanctuary that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. After your visit, make your way to the Giardini Pubblici, a beautifully landscaped public garden ideal for a relaxing break, allowing you to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and perhaps a picnic in the shade.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Ascona Beach, where you can relax by the lake or take a refreshing swim in the clear waters. Next, venture to the Verzasca Dam, an impressive engineering marvel that is perfect for photography and stunning views. Finally, wrap up your itinerary with a visit to Castello Visconteo, where you can delve into the rich history of the region and enjoy the scenic views from this historic site, creating a memorable end to your trip.

5 tips to find a great Ascona hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those traveling on a budget, the best time to visit Ascona is during January, February, and November, when hotel prices are significantly lower. To fully appreciate the area's main attractions, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. Ascona offers great value for money with its stunning natural parks and beautiful floral displays, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers looking for an affordable getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Ascona, with its stunning lakeside views and charming ambiance, offers enticing last-minute hotel deals for spontaneous travelers. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on accommodations near your travel dates. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, ensuring you have the best chance to snag great savings on your Ascona getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Ascona.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods while keeping in mind the balance between cost and easy access to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Ascona. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Ascona

Here are a few popular dining spots in Ascona, Canton of Ticino, Switzerland:

• Osteria Nostrana: A beloved eatery that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Ticino. The menu features traditional dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients, blending time-honored recipes with innovative twists. Their commitment to seasonal produce ensures a unique dining experience that highlights the region's flavors.
• Antico Ristorante Borromeo: Renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, this restaurant emphasizes the use of locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, reflecting the culinary creativity of the region. The menu offers a delightful selection of regional specialties, allowing diners to savor the essence of Ticino’s gastronomic landscape.

Best time to go to Ascona

Ascona experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 26.6°F (-3.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 61.7°F (16.5°C). August is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Ascona, February, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, October, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

Ascona Travel Information