Arrived at Lugano via Zurich in 4.5 hours, due to delay of incoming train from Milano to Zurich in over 20 min. Had I known that the last leg was served by Trenitalia, I would have bought 1st class tickets (as in my previous travels in Italy).  The seats in the 2nd class were cramped – worsened by a poor design of a fixed metallic dustbin behind each row of seats which further reduced leg room.

Anyway, picked up our pre-forwarded luggage from Lugano station and headed to hotel by taxi. Checked into hotel after 2pm, relaxed a bit in our spacious room and enjoyed the lake views from room balcony on a warm afternoon (over 20C).

Mont Bre

Headed up to Mont Bre around 4pm. The funicular station was close to our hotel – in about 10 min on foot.  The funicular was split into 2 sections. Anyone can take the lower section to an upper road w/o any ticket. The ticket counter for the funicular to mt top was on the upper road. Took about 15 min to arrive at the top – the climb was steep at some sections.

Arrived at the top station around 5pm. Had some nice views of Lake Lugano and Monte San Salvatore in the south. Took the next funicular downhill and dropped off at the next upper station. Followed a path to an observation point where views were unblocked. 

It’s already dark when we arrived back in the hotel.  Went for the 1st dinner in Lugano old town by city bus (free using transport card again) in about 15 min.

Booked an Italian restaurant with many good reviews. Food was as delicious as in Italy and professional service.

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