Paradiso, Ticino: The Captivating Lakeside Gem

Paradiso municipality lies at the far end of the district of Lugano by the shores of Lake Lugano. It is an Italian-speaking town in the canton of Ticino that has retained its distinct identity despite being surrounded almost entirely by the city of Lugano.

The compact jewel is about 0.89 square kilometers. However, a mix of culture, access to the lake, and numerous sights make it look a lot bigger. Thinking of a perfect holiday destination for your next vacation? Paradiso could easily top your list!

A Journey through Paradiso’s Eventful History

Paradiso's story runs as far back as the 6th century. This was long before it gained this name. Let’s look at some of the key eras that have defined the city as it is today.

Langobard roots and Roman times

The first settlers were a small Langobard community that lived by the lake, which provided water and fish for their daily living. There are also traces of Roman civilization in the town. Excavations at Calprino in 1951 showed some Roman artifacts, and the area is linked to their trade routes.

Medieval villages and monasteries

By 1040, the Benedictine monastery of S. Carpoforo held property in Calprino, marking a religious and economic foothold. The first formal mention of Calprino was in 1335, alongside Morchino (8th century), Fontana, and Guidino (12th-14th centuries). The church of Paradiso, linked to Pambio’s parish, and the 16th-century Chapel of Beata Vergine alla Geretta reflect a growing spiritual presence. Agriculture—grains and vineyards—sustained these hamlets, shaping a modest, rural life.

Industrial stirrings of 18th and 19th century

The 18th and 19th centuries stirred change as the silk industry threaded its way into Paradiso’s economy, adding a new layer of prosperity. But the true turning point came in 1882 with the Gotthard Railway’s opening, catapulting Paradiso into a tourist destination. The name “Paradiso,” used for a district by 1835 and formalized in 1929 to distinguish it from Caprino across the lake, nodded to its newfound appeal. The 1890 launch of the Monte San Salvatore funicular sealed its status as a holiday haven, drawing visitors to its scenic splendor.

Cropping up residential areas

The 20th century reshaped Paradiso once more. The 1966 highway along the Lugano border shifted its focus from tourism to residential living. There was a dip in visitor numbers, but the area attracted permanent residents. Therefore, luxury buildings rose to cater to those seeking a permanent stake in this lakeside retreat. By the 21st century, Paradiso had evolved into an upscale enclave, balancing its historical roots with a polished, modern identity.

Today, the municipality is split between farmland, forests, and settled zones, all of which make the area diverse. You will find it to be a very polished yet green environment. There is everything in one place. Here, you can hike in the morning, take a lake cruise at noon, and enjoy some fine dining in the evening.

Things to Do in Paradiso, Ticino

There is so much to do and experience in Paradiso, Ticino. The area blends natural beauty with a rich culture and lots of possible adventures. It is a dream destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone out there looking to unwind. Here are some of the things that it offers.

Explore an amazing view from Monte San Salvatore

Do not leave Paradiso without visiting Monte San Salvatore. It is a mountain that towers at 912 meters. Use a funicular at the base to take you from the shores of the lake to the summit in a few minutes. You can also hike to the peak and enjoy the greenery on your way up. From the top, you will enjoy panoramic views of the Alps and Lake Lugano to the city of Milan miles away. There is even a church at the peak with some interesting history.

Cruise Lake Lugano

Lake Lugano defines Paradiso. You can explore it using Società Navigazione del Lago di Lugano boats. They offer tourist-friendly rides to villages like Gandria, some of which are roadless. Bring a snack, enjoy the breeze, and mingle with locals as you experience Ticino’s quieter side.

Stroll the lakeside

About 58% of Paradiso is a settled zone that offers charming waterfront paths. Admire buildings blending old-world grace with modern flair, or pause at the Chapel of Beata Vergine alla Geretta, a 16th-century gem. The view of Lugano’s bay, framed by Monte Brè and San Salvatore, is postcard-perfect. So, don’t leave without a perfect sunset photo of the shores.

Ride the rails and buses

The railway station on the Gotthard line links Paradiso to Bellinzona, Lugano, and Chiasso every half hour via Treni Regionali Ticino Lombardia (TILO). Some trains reach Milan, though most require a Chiasso switch. Locally, Trasporti Pubblici Luganesi buses (routes 1 and 2) run every 15 minutes to Lugano. They all give you a taste of the local life and a chance to see the neighborhood up close.

Savor local life

Paradiso’s proximity to Lugano opens up dining and shopping, but local cafés offer a laid-back vibe. Sip coffee by the lake, tasting Ticino’s agricultural legacy—when 37.1% of the land fed vineyards and grains—reflected in regional dishes like polenta. You may also try the Farina bona, a traditional cornmeal used in pancakes.

Relax in residential bliss

With 33.7% of the built-up area dedicated to housing, Paradiso’s sections—Calprino, Guidino, Fontana, and Morchino—boast elegant homes amid greenery. It’s a serene spot to recharge after a day out. Here, you can take walks to unwind and enjoy the greenery in the area.

Suisse Immobilien Group will get you a home in Ticino

Dreaming of calling Paradiso home? The Suisse Immobilien Group in nearby Lugano is your gateway to Ticino properties. We have made a name for finding villas, apartments, and penthouses—many with lake views. Reach out to us if you seek a family haven, a vacation getaway, or an investment with growth potential. Our able team will secure you a slice of Paradiso today!