It’s not the most touristic location in Ticino, but Chiasso Switzerland still has a few things to do that you might be interested in. With a few antique shopping spots, the beautiful Breggia park and interesting exhibitions at the main museum, get inspired to visit Chiasso!
Where Is Chiasso, Switzerland?
Chiasso is located in the very southern point of the Ticino canton. Chiasso is the last official Swiss location you stop at by train before heading across the boarder to Northern Italy. The municipality of Chiasso includes the surrounding Seseglio, Pedrinate and Boffalora.
It is easy to combine a visit to Chiasso with the larger locations of Lugano Switzerland and Como Italy nearby. From Como Italy it takes only 4 minutes by train, else from Lugano it takes only 30 minutes by train – both direct trains too.
History of Chiasso Switzerland
Chiasso officially dates back to 1146 with the name referring to ‘Clasio Tabernarium’. This was linked to all the local food and drink establishments that were once in the area. By the 19th century, many factories were set up here producing silk and tobacco, increasing work for locals and the region.
The international train station was opened in 1932, which was an important factor for the tax free area in Chiasso with also the Saint Gottard Tunnel opening.
Things To Do In Chiasso
Let’s be realistic, Chiasso is not a top destination or the most exciting place to visit in terms of things to do or touristic things to see. Chiasso is a rather small location and more of a place for locals to live and commute from for their work.
Rummage in the 2nd hand Antique shops
Take a visit to one of the antique/2nd hand stores mentioned below. If you like finding something unique, antique or random, make sure to spend at least 40 minutes rummaging through everything! They are no the biggest of 2nd hand stores, but they sure are filled with lots of interesting things to buy.
- Pfahler SA
- Brocantique GP
- ANTICHITÀ L’ Arte del Restauro
Explore the Breggia Gorge Park
In warm or dry weather, take a stroll through the Breggia Gorge Park. This gorge area is an industrial location along the river, but dates back with 200 million years of geological history.
You can follow an official geography route, through the colourful clay, limestones and colourful mineral rocks. Alternative you can choose a more historical route to explore, crossing an iron bridge and discovering the historical industrial buildings. Check the map for the walking Breggia routes!
Check The Exhibits At M.A.X. Museo
With ever changing exhibitions, the M.A.X Museum is a charming, small museum in Chiasso. You can discover some unique pieces of art work. The museum has also a great architecture style and the staff are helpful for any questions about more info from the exhibits. There is parking available if you wish to arrive by car.
Centro Shopping Serfontana
For some supermarket shopping, local boutiques for clothes and shoes, or if you need to send a postcard to someone, the Centro Shopping Serfontana is the place to visit. It’s has two big supermarkets inside (Coop and Migros) as well as three official levels for all other local shops. You can find a few well known shops here too such as the perfume store Douglas.
Visit The Chiesa Parrocchiale San Vitale Martire
Located not far from the train station, the Church retains its authenticity with splendid paintings and sculptures, including its magnificent ceiling. The church has a fairly simple organ and some stained glass, but still beautiful to see for those who are interested.
Things To Do around Chiasso
There are quite a few places you can visit from Chiasso, such as:
- Chiasso to Como – It’s a 4 minute train ride to Como, Italy! So it’s great to combine with visiting the stunning lake Como and Como city.
- Chiasso to Lugano – It’s only a 25 minute direct train ride will get you to Lugano, Switzerland. A gorgeous city surrounded by Monte Bre and Monte San Salvatore.
- Chiasso to Milan – It’s a 50 minute direct train to the city of Milan, Italy!
- A 1 hour 30 minutes to the top of Monte Generoso mountain peak.
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