Lugano’s stunning Lakeside setting makes it a perfect spot for boat tours. The shimmering waters of Lake Lugano offer more than just a pretty view—they’re a portal to charming villages, lush parks, and panoramic vistas. Some of our favorite experiences include the Lake Lugano Cruise to Morcote & Sightseeing, which combines a relaxing boat ride with a stroll through the picturesque fishing village that was crowned Switzerland’s Most Beautiful Village in 2016. And if you prefer exploring on foot, the Guided Walking Tour to Gandria with Boat Cruise offers a lovely mix of scenic hiking and lakeside relaxation.
Whether you’re looking for a quick boat rental, a full-day adventure, or a guided tour with storytelling, Lugano offers a variety of options. The list below highlights some of the best cruises and boat tours in the area, each with its own unique charm.
1. From Lugano: Lake Lugano Cruise to Morcote & Sightseeing
Set sail from Lugano on a panoramic boat cruise that lands you in the charming village of Morcote. This tour is perfect for those who want a taste of lake scenery combined with exploring one of Switzerland’s most beautiful spots. Morcote, awarded Switzerland’s Most Beautiful Village in 2016, is renowned for its winding streets, lush gardens, and historic churches. The cruise itself offers outstanding views of the lake, with plenty of photo opportunities as you glide past the snow-capped peaks and shimmering waters.
Once in Morcote, you’ll have time to wander its quaint streets, discover the Parco Scherrer with its lush vegetation, and soak in the relaxed “dolce vita” vibe. The tour lasts about 5.5 hours, making it an ideal half-day excursion. With a solid 4.6-star rating based on 38 reviews, people love the mix of scenic cruising and the chance to explore Morcote’s peaceful streets. A typical review quotes, “Everything was great,” highlighting the smooth organization and beautiful sights.
Bottom line: This is a top pick for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic experience with a good balance of boat cruising and village exploration.
2. Lugano: Guided Walking Tour to Gandria with Boat Cruise
Take a 1.5-hour walk along the Olive Tree Trail from Lugano to Gandria, a tiny village with a Mediterranean feel. This tour combines walking, local history, and a boat ride back across Lake Lugano. The walk itself offers the best views of the lake and takes you through olive groves and scenic terraced landscapes, perfect for snapping photos or just enjoying the quiet.
The guided tour is led by someone who shares insights into the region’s history and daily life, making it more than just a stroll. After exploring Gandria’s narrow streets and quaint harbor, you’ll hop on a boat to return to Lugano. The tour is rated 4.5/5 from 29 reviews, with one reviewer appreciating the guide’s “knowledgeable and humorous” approach. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy light activity combined with storytelling.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a scenic hike with cultural insights, ending with a relaxing boat cruise.
3. Lugano Lake: 3 Hours Boat Rental
If you want to explore Lake Lugano at your own pace, renting a boat for three hours offers unmatched flexibility. This rental is perfect for those who enjoy independent adventures on the water. The boats are user-friendly, require no license, and come with fuel included, so there are no surprises on the bill.
The experience is straightforward: meet in central Lugano (in front of McDonald’s), hop on the boat, and go. Many renters appreciate the simple explanation given by the staff and the ease of handling the vessel. With a 5-star rating from just four reviews, the consensus is that it’s a fun and hassle-free way to enjoy the lake. The scenery from the water is breathtaking, with mountains, lakeside villas, and lush greenery all around.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want an independent, flexible lake day with easy access from central Lugano.
4. Guided Walk from Lugano to Gandria promoted by Lugano Region – return by boat
This tour offers a combination of active walking and relaxing boat rides, taking you along the Olive Tree Trail with a guided narrative about the region’s history and landscapes. After a walk through olive groves with stunning views of Lake Lugano, you’ll reach Gandria, a village characterized by its narrow alleys and waterfront charm. Here, you can explore and enjoy local eateries before the boat whisks you back across the lake.
The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours and has a rating of 4.5/5. Reviewers mention the “knowledgeable guides” and the “beautiful scenery” as major highlights. The walk is relatively active but accessible, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The historical stories shared by the guide add an extra layer of appreciation for this scenic route.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who enjoy light hiking, local history, and scenic boat transfers in a relaxed setting.
5. Lugano Lake: 2 Hours Boat Rental
Looking for a quick, flexible way to enjoy Lake Lugano? The 2-hour boat rental offers a quick escape. The boats are easy to operate without a license, and fuel is included. This rental is ideal if you want a taste of lake life without committing to a longer trip.
Many renters mention the “spotless, comfortable boat” and the friendly support from staff. It’s a great way to explore the scenic highlights around Lugano, from the lakeside villas to the surrounding mountains. This experience suits those with limited time or first-timers who want to try boat cruising without stress.
Bottom line: Best for a short, self-led adventure with all logistics handled smoothly.
6. Lugano Lake: 1 Hour Boat Rental
For those really pressed for time or wanting a quick dip on the lake, the 1-hour rental provides a brief but enjoyable experience. The boat is easy to drive, and fuel costs are included. Reviews note the “friendly, clear instructions,” making this an accessible option.
While shorter, it’s enough to enjoy a quick trip around some of Lugano’s scenic spots. It’s perfect for a snapshot tour or a first-time boat experience. Keep in mind that the shorter duration may not be enough for a full exploration but is great for a taste.
Bottom line: Ideal for a quick water adventure, especially for first-timers or those on a tight schedule.
7. Basel: Scenic Train to Lugano’s Old Town & Lake Cruise
This is a different kind of experience—combining train travel, sightseeing, and a lakeside cruise. Starting in Basel, you’ll journey through the Gotthard Tunnel, the longest rail tunnel in the world, to reach Lugano. Once there, enjoy a guided tour of the city, a cruise on Lake Lugano, and scenic views of the Swiss Alps.
At $732 per person, this is more of a full-day luxury experience, perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of the region’s landscape, culture, and scenery. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy train journeys, guided sightseeing, and lakeside cruising in one package.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking an all-in-one adventure with a touch of luxury and scenic travel.
8. Lugano Lake: All Day Boat Rental
For the most extensive lake exploration, the 9-hour all-day boat rental is ideal. It’s similar to the 3-hour rental but offers more time to explore, relax, or anchor at different spots. The boat is license-free, fuel and insurance are included, and starting point is centrally located in Lugano.
This option is perfect for those who want to spend a full day soaking in the scenery, stopping at various lakeside villages, or simply drifting along the water at leisure. Reviews highlight the easy handling and friendly staff, making this a favorite for serious lake lovers or families wanting a full-day outing.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want an immersive, flexible, and relaxed full-day experience on Lake Lugano.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you want a quick taste of the lake, the 1-hour or 2-hour rentals are excellent. For a more guided and storytelling-rich experience, the Gandria walking tour or the Gandria guided walk with return boat provide a broader cultural context.
If you prefer a full-day adventure, the All Day Boat Rental offers maximum flexibility, while the scenic train and lake cruise combines train travel with sightseeing for a more comprehensive experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred times and availability. Consider what pace suits your travel style—relaxed village visits or active outdoor exploration—and pick the experience that best fits your plans.
Lugano offers a variety of boat and cruise options for every taste and schedule. Whether you want a quick paddle on the water, a guided walk into local villages, or a full-day rental adventure, there’s something here to make your visit memorable. The combination of breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and easy access from central Lugano makes these tours a must-do for any traveler.
So, plan ahead, choose what suits you best, and get ready to enjoy the unique charm of Lake Lugano from its waters. Booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these beautiful experiences.