Dog-Friendly Parks & Lakeside Walks in Lugano

Lugano's central 63,000 m² public park stretches along the lakefront from Piazza Manzoni to the Villa Ciani. Mature plane trees, century-old magnolias, paved promenades and a fenced dog zone (Area cani) in the eastern section. Leashed dogs welcome throughout the rest of the park; ample shade and water fountains make it the village's daily dog meeting point.

A 3 km paved lakefront walk from Lugano's Piazza Manzoni south to the Paradiso district at the foot of Monte San Salvatore, with continuous lake views, palm trees, art installations and benches. Leashed dogs welcome throughout; several gravel coves where dogs can dip paws. The path connects to the Monte San Salvatore funicular base and the Splendide Royal lakefront cluster.

A spectacular 3.5 km lakeside footpath (Sentiero dell'Olivo, the Olive Tree Trail) from Castagnola in eastern Lugano to the picturesque fishing village of Gandria, passing 18 educational panels on Mediterranean olive cultivation. Almost level, partially shaded, with constant lake views. Leashed dogs welcome throughout. The return trip can be made by the Lugano lake boat (dogs ride free).