Is Ticino is a great place to live? The answer is yes! It is the Southern most Swiss canton located in the south of Switzerland, known for its Mediterranean climate, stunning landscape, Italian vibes and rich cultural heritage. From its picturesque lakes to its stunning mountain ranges, Ticino has a lot to offer for those looking for a new place to call home in Switzerland.
our personal top ten reasons why Ticino is a great place to live
1. Beautiful natural environment with breathtaking views and landscapes
From towering mountain peaks to crystal clear lakes, there is always something breathtaking to see. In the spring and summer, the rolling hills and fields are dotted with wildflowers, adding pops of colour to the landscape. In the fall, the trees turn golden and red, creating a beautiful tapestry of colour. And in the winter, the snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop for all kinds of outdoor activities.
Check our local Ticino hiking locations for inspiration, with our favourite location being Lavertezzo!
2. Ideal climate with more sunny days than anywhere else in Switzerland
The climate in Ticino is super ideal, with more sunny days than anywhere else in Switzerland. The region enjoys a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters. The average high in the summer is around 27°C (81°F), while the average low in the winter is around 8°C (46°F). This makes it a great place to visit all year round, as there is always something to do and see.
Some beautiful spots to visit during the sunny days include:
3. Numerous outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, sailing and swimming
In the summer, there are miles of trails to explore on foot or by bike, as well as lakes, waterfalls and rivers where you can go swimming or sailing. No matter what your interests, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors.
For those who love exploring at night, there are some brilliant stargazing opportunities in Ticino too!
4. Rich cultural heritage and a unique Italian-speaking atmosphere
Ticino is home to a number of historical sites and landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage castles in Bellinzona, churches, and many museums that tell the story of the area’s past. The region is also home to a large Italian-speaking population, which adds to the unique atmosphere and culture of the area.
5. A wide range of traditional food specialties from both the Swiss and Italian cuisine
Ticino is known for its delicious cheeses, like most Swiss cantons, as well as delicious local chocolates. The Italian influence can also be found in the local cuisine, with dishes like risotto, pizza and pasta being popular choices. No matter what you’re in the mood for, there is something to satisfy every palate.
6. Excellent infrastructure with easy access to major cities like Zurich or Milan
The infrastructure in Ticino is excellent, with easy access to major cities like Zurich or Milan by train or car. The region is well-connected to the rest of Switzerland and beyond too, with a network of roads and railways making it easy to get around. There are lots of local buses too. Whether you’re traveling by car, train, or bus, getting to and from Ticino is a breeze!
7. High quality healthcare system
Ticino is home to a number of well-regarded hospitals and medical centers, which are equipped with the latest technology and staffed by highly trained professionals. Whether you’re in need of routine care or more specialized treatment, you can count on receiving top-notch medical care in this location.
8. Low taxes compared to other cantons in Switzerland
Taxes in Ticino are low compared to most other cantons in Switzerland. The region is known for its favourable tax rates, which are among the lowest in the country.This makes it an attractive place for businesses and individuals alike, as it provides a more affordable cost of living. However keep in mind that Ticino is also one of the lowest paying cantons when it comes to specialized jobs, with the larger cities of Geneve, Zurich, Basel and Bern paying more for a position than in Ticino.
9. Good educational opportunities for children of all ages
We don’t have children yet, but we hear that there are good educational opportunities for children of all ages. Ticino is home to a number of high-quality schools and for example the Lugano University, which offer a wide range of educational programs and courses. Whether you’re looking for primary, secondary, or higher education, you’ll find a range of options to choose from.
10. Friendly people who will make you feel at home
If you speak a bit of Italian, the people in this location are friendly and will make you feel at home. The Ticino canton is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, so you can expect a lovely welcoming service to all local restaurants and services that you use.
A top place to share, we had the very best experience of friendliness and care at the local spa in Locarno, highly recommended for a relaxing day out!
Summary Of Our Ticino is a Great Place to Live List
We have not physically lived anywhere else in Switzerland, so we hope this list is not biased. However based on what we already know from other locations in Switzerland, Ticino is a great place to live. We have experienced living in multiple places in Ticino, such as in Locarno (with our 2 month review) and Lugano, with our main expat review of living in Switzerland being a popular post to read too.
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