Monte San Salvatore at 912 metres is often called the «Rigi of Ticino» for its distinctive profile and the chapel crowning its summit. The mountain rises steeply from the shore of Lake Lugano southwest of the city and offers a 360° panorama over three lakes – Lake Lugano, Lake Como and Lake Maggiore – as well as the southern Alpine slopes and the Ticino mountain landscape.

On the summit plateau, alongside the chapel, a museum covering the mountain's geology and history and a restaurant with a viewing terrace are available. Hiking trails lead up from the lake by various routes and offer glimpses of the Mediterranean vegetation. In spring azaleas and rhododendrons bloom on the slopes.

Monte San Salvatore is reachable by funicular from Paradiso – a district of Lugano directly on the lake – in around 12 minutes. Paradiso is accessible from central Lugano by bus in just a few minutes. Tickets: montesansalvatore.ch