Your Expat Community in Lugano

An Introduction to Lugano Expat Life

A glamorous Italian-speaking city frequented by international movie stars, athletes, and entertainers, Lugano has earned the nickname, "The Monte Carlo of Switzerland". From the upmarket Italian-style piazzas with their high-end boutiques and five-star restaurants, to the natural wonders of Lake Lugano and the Lugano Prealps, it's not difficult to see why so many people are attracted to the city. Predictably, tourism plays a major role in Lugano's economy, although banking, financial services, and urban development are also key industries. Some expats also choose to settle in Lugano to commute to Milan, which is just over an hour's drive from the city. Whatever your reasons for moving to Lugano, this glittering jewel of the Swiss south is sure to win a place in your heart.

InterNations is the largest global network for expatriates, with communities in 420 cities around the world. Meet fellow global minds in your city of residence or get to know local expatriates before you're moving or traveling abroad and never feel like a stranger. InterNations makes it easy for you to stay in touch with your expat friends, both online and offline, so you can grow your network of friends and contacts from all over the world. Whether they live in Bali or London, InterNations allows you to be close to them even if they are miles away.

The Network for Expatriates in Lugano

At InterNations, we understand that settling into a new city can be challenging. That's why we're committed to easing the transition by providing a safe, secure, and respectful community where you can find the answers to a host of questions about living and working in Lugano. Our members will be happy to offer first-hand advice on practicalities such as which districts offer the best and most affordable flats to buy or rent, how to take out Swiss health insurance, and what you need to apply for Swiss residency. You can also use our network for social purposes, such as forming a hiking club to take advantage of the beautiful Swiss countryside, joining a local sports or fitness club and meeting fellow expats for coffee in the city. You might also like to attend one of InterNations' special networking events, where you can mingle with fellow expat Lugano residents in an appealing local venue.