Evocative Porlezza is a popular and friendly town that sits on the shores of Lake Lugano. Its popularity is easy to understand, it has a child friendly beach, an interesting historic downtown, a romantic lakeside setting, opportunities for various water and land activities and wonderful views all around.
One of Porlezzas absolute strengths is its lakeside beach. You will find both a public and a private part, and it is child friendly and away from traffic. The backdrop to the beach is formed by large green lawns with shady trees and a picnic area with barbeque grills. There are also good opportunities for water sports and exploring the local trails. On 16 August each summer the patron saint San Rocco is celebrated with a firework display over the lake. From June to September, a boat service from Porlezza to Lugano in Switzerland is available a few times a week. The trip takes approx. half a day with approx. 3 - 4 hour stop off in Lugano - don't forget your passport if you take this trip. The weekly market day in town is on Saturday and the atmosphere is great. There is an antique market held in the evenings during the summer, both in the old town and on the lakeside.
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Porlezza is a small town with a few well-kept shops, cafes and restaurants. The centre has a pedestrian street, Via Giuseppe Garibaldi. Do not miss to visit the church with its frescoes from 1690. In summer, people spend their free time on the beach and on the promenade along the lake. The main downside of Porlezza is the busy SS340 road that runs between the centre and beach. It is a busy road because it connects Porlezza to Lugano in Switzerland, but fortunately this road has many pedestrian crossings.
Although Porlezza seems to be an isolated area, it is only 10 km to Lake Como and its glamorous waterfronts and impressive villas. You can reach Maneggio in about 15 minutes from Porlezza by car, and from there take the boat to Bellagio, Varena and the rest of Lake Como. Many people prefer Porlezza though because it is quieter, and the prices are more affordable than those charged at Lake Como.
