Is Lugano worth the trip?

It is a little like the Lake Como area with the lake little mountain landscape but not as charming. The town felt like a cheesy nouveau riche version. You can live without it.

There are a few standout places for which I have unforgettable memories. The view from the balcony of my hotel in Melide looking across Lake Lugano is one. Of course the view of sailboats on Lake Como looking back towards Varenna wasn't so bad either. I didn't spend much (any?) time in the town of Lugano. At Lake Lugano I enjoyed taking the gondola up and then hiking down Mt San Salvatore.

Both of my experiences were pretty great. If I could only keep one of my memories, I would choose Lake Lugano. I detoured years later to go back.

Gene,

I find Lake Como (and Varenna specifically) to be more quaint (best word I can think of) and informal, while Lugano seems more posh and formal. Lugano has a Casino and there's a much larger one part way along the lake in Campione, Italy. In Lugano took the Funicular to the top of Monte San Salvatore which provides a great view of the area, as well as a boat tour along the lake. i enjoyed my time in both places.

I prefer Lake Maggiore. Cheaper, too, especially on the Italian side of it.

Ok... I decided to skip the Lugano..
Thanks everyone for responding..
I already did the Lake Como experience not too long ago.. and it doesn't seem extra special to the Lake Como...
I'll plan to spend more time at Jungfraujoch region instead