Situated within Switzerland’s only Italian-speaking canton, Ticino, Lugano has such a wondrous lakeside position that it’s near impossible to get closer to Paradise – the neighboring shoreline town. While Lugano vacations tend to focus on the waters of its finger-like lake, the vibrant town would be a fine introduction to the region even without it. High-end boutique stores line its cobbled streets beside a flurry of cafes and bars. The lakeside itself is a phenomenal place for a stroll at almost any time of year. For culture, there’s the LAC Arts Center, and contemporary art’s Collection of Giancarlo & Danna Olgiati.