Question 1

Which are the best hotels to stay in Lugano as a budget traveller?

Accepted Answer

For budget travellers visiting Lugano, excellent options include Continental Parkhotel, Hotel Federale Lugano, and Walter au Lac.

The 3-star Continental Parkhotel, with a fantastic 9.2 rating, offers exceptional value by providing free breakfast and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests frequently praise the food, highlighting it as an excellent feature of their stay.

Another highly-rated 3-star option is Hotel Federale Lugano, scoring 9.2. This hotel provides free toiletries and Wi-Fi, and also has an electric car charging station. Reviewers consistently mention the spacious and beautiful rooms, the great location, and the nice, helpful staff, often singling out the lovely courtyard as a highlight.

Walter au Lac, a 3-star hotel with a 9.0 rating, is another great choice. It offers free toiletries, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary buffet breakfast. Its location receives excellent and great feedback, while the rooms are described as beautiful and clean.

Question 2

How much does a budget hotel in Lugano cost?

Accepted Answer

Budget hotel prices in Lugano vary, but you can find a great deal from £116 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.

Question 3

Which area of Lugano is best to stay in for cheap hotels?

Accepted Answer

For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking affordable accommodation in Lugano, the Cassarate and Paradiso areas offer some of the best value for money. These districts, located just a short distance from the city centre, provide a more economical base without sacrificing convenience or access to Lugano's attractions.

Cassarate, situated to the east of the city centre, is a pleasant residential area with a good selection of budget hotels, guesthouses, and even some hostels. Solo travellers will find it easy to get around, with frequent bus services connecting to the main train station and the bustling city centre. The area is also close to Parco Ciani, a beautiful lakeside park great for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, offering free enjoyment.

To the south of the city, Paradiso offers another excellent option for cheap hotels. This charming district boasts stunning views of Lake Lugano and Monte San Salvatore, and while it feels a little more removed from the urban rush, it's still very well-connected by public transport. Solo travellers can take advantage of the funicular up Monte San Salvatore for breathtaking panoramic views, and the lakeside promenade offers a picturesque, free walk back towards the city centre.

Question 4

What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Lugano?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in Lugano that are highly-rated for families, consider the Hotel Pestalozzi Lugano, Hotel & Hostel Montarina, Hotel Firenze Lugano, Hotel Locanda Castagnola, and Walter au Lac.

The Hotel Pestalozzi Lugano, with an 8.4 rating, offers free toiletries, free WiFi, and connecting rooms, which are excellent for families. Reviewers often highlight the friendly staff, great location, and clean rooms. Mountain biking is also available nearby for active families.

Hotel & Hostel Montarina, rated 8.6, provides free WiFi, free self-parking, and a pool, which is a fantastic bonus for families. They also have a playground for children, making it very appealing for those travelling with little ones. Guests frequently mention the nice, clean rooms.

The 3-star Hotel Firenze Lugano offers practical amenities for families, including free cots for infants, free WiFi, and free toiletries. The hotel also boasts a terrace and a rooftop terrace, providing lovely spaces for relaxation.

Hotel Locanda Castagnola, with a 9.0 rating, is another excellent option, providing free cots, free breakfast, and a free buffet breakfast, ensuring a good start to the day. Free WiFi and a 24-hour airport shuttle add to its convenience.

Finally, the 3-star Walter au Lac, rated 9.0, is praised for its excellent location, beautiful and clean rooms, and amazing service. Families will appreciate the free toiletries, free WiFi, and complimentary buffet breakfast.

Question 5

What cheap hotels in Lugano offer complimentary breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in Lugano that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent choices, including Continental Parkhotel, Walter au Lac, Acquarello Swiss Quality Hotel, and Hotel Locanda Castagnola.

The 3-star Continental Parkhotel, with an impressive 9.2 rating, provides a free buffet breakfast daily, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests also benefit from free WiFi and complimentary self-parking, adding to the overall value.

Another superb option is the 3-star Walter au Lac, rated 9.0 by customers. This hotel also offers a free buffet breakfast and free WiFi. Reviewers frequently praise its beautiful, clean rooms and the amazing, helpful staff.

The 3-star Acquarello Swiss Quality Hotel, with a 7.8 rating, includes a free continental breakfast daily and free WiFi. Its location is often highlighted by guests as being particularly convenient.

Hotel Locanda Castagnola, rated 9.0, also provides a free buffet breakfast daily, along with free WiFi. This hotel offers a 24-hour airport shuttle, which can be very convenient for travellers.

Question 6

When is the most affordable time to visit Lugano?

Accepted Answer

The most affordable time to visit Lugano is typically during the shoulder seasons, specifically late autumn (October to November) and early spring (March to April), when tourist numbers dwindle and prices for accommodation and flights tend to be lower. During these months, you'll find a quieter atmosphere, making it ideal for solo travellers who prefer a more tranquil experience.

While some summer attractions might be closed, the mild weather is still great for exploring the city's beautiful promenades and parks without the summer crowds. Take advantage of free activities like wandering through the charming old town, admiring the architecture, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the lakefront. Solo travellers can also find good value in local eateries, opting for daily specials or 'menu del giorno' to keep dining costs down.

Additionally, travelling during these off-peak times can mean better deals on public transport, such as regional passes if you plan to explore the surrounding areas of Canton Ticino.

Question 7

What are the best cheap hotels in Lugano with a pool?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in Lugano with a pool, both Continental Parkhotel and Hotel & Hostel Montarina offer excellent options.

The 3-star Continental Parkhotel, with a superb 9.2 rating, provides a wonderful seasonal outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. In addition to the refreshing pool, guests benefit from complimentary buffet breakfast and free Wi-Fi, adding significant value to their stay. Reviewers frequently highlight the excellent food at this hotel.

Hotel & Hostel Montarina, rated 8.6, also features a seasonal outdoor pool, superb for a relaxing dip. This property also offers free Wi-Fi and free self-parking.

Question 8

Is Lugano a budget-friendly destination?

Accepted Answer

While Lugano, located in the picturesque Canton of Ticino, is generally considered more expensive than other European cities, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider looking for options in quieter areas just outside the city centre, or exploring guesthouses and smaller hotels that offer better value. Staying in a self-catering apartment can also reduce food costs, especially for couples who enjoy cooking some of their own meals. The efficient public transport system, including buses and trains, makes it easy to explore the region without a car, saving on rental and parking fees.

Much of Lugano's appeal lies in its natural beauty, which is free to enjoy. Couples and solo travellers can spend days walking along the lakeside promenade, exploring the charming old town (Centro Storico), or hiking in the surrounding mountains. Mount San Salvatore and Monte Brè offer breathtaking panoramic views, and while the funiculars have a cost, there are also well-maintained walking paths for those who prefer to trek. Picnics by the lake, with delicious local produce from markets, are a delightful and inexpensive way to dine.

Question 9

What cheap hotels in Lugano offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels in Lugano that offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes, you have excellent options such as Acquarello Swiss Quality Hotel, VISIONAPARTMENTS Lugano, and GuestHouse Lugano University.

The 3-star Acquarello Swiss Quality Hotel, with a rating of 7.8, provides kitchenettes, which are a great value for budget-conscious travellers. Guests also benefit from a complimentary continental breakfast and free WiFi. Its location is often highlighted as being very convenient.

Another good option is the 3-star VISIONAPARTMENTS Lugano, also rated 7.8. These apartments come equipped with a kitchenette, and they also offer free WiFi and free toiletries. Covered self-parking is available, and pets can stay for free, which adds to the value.

GuestHouse Lugano University, with a rating of 7.4, also features kitchenettes. Guests can enjoy free WiFi and rooms with balconies.

Question 10

Which cheap hotels in Lugano have good reviews for customer service?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels in Lugano with great customer service, travellers often praise Hotel Federale Lugano, Walter au Lac, and Hotel Pestalozzi Lugano.

The 3-star Hotel Federale Lugano, with a top rating of 9.2, is frequently commended by guests for its helpful and pleasant staff. It also provides free WiFi and complimentary toiletries, adding to its value.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Walter au Lac, rated 9.0 by our customers. Reviewers consistently highlight the amazing service and helpful staff. Guests also benefit from free WiFi and a complimentary buffet breakfast.

Hotel Pestalozzi Lugano, with an 8.4 rating, also receives great feedback for its friendly and accommodating staff.

Question 11

How can I save on a budget hotel in Lugano with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Lugano. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.

Question 12

What free activities should we do in Lugano?

Accepted Answer

Lugano offers a surprising number of fantastic free activities, allowing you to immerse yourself in its beauty without spending a penny. The city's stunning natural landscapes and cultural offerings make it a prime spot for budget travellers.

Solo travellers and couples will particularly enjoy leisurely strolls along the picturesque lakeside promenade, offering breathtaking views of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains. You can wander through Parco Ciani, one of Switzerland's most beautiful public parks, admiring its manicured gardens, vibrant flowerbeds, and impressive trees. For a touch of history, explore the charming narrow streets of Lugano's Old Town, discovering its hidden courtyards and historic architecture.

Beyond the city centre, there are numerous hiking trails that cater to various fitness levels, providing incredible vistas of the lake and valleys. Consider taking a walk along the Olive Grove Trail (Sentiero dell'olivo) from Gandria to Castagnola, which is easily accessible by public transport and offers educational insights into olive cultivation alongside stunning scenery.

Question 13

Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Lugano as a package?

Accepted Answer

Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it’s wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

Question 14

Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Lugano for you.

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