Via alla Bola, 6815, Melide
Been here?
Free roadside parking near Lugano's lakefront, opposite Swissminiatur and next to a football field, playground and restaurant. Free overnight from 8pm-8am, but daytime parking costs about 5 CHF for 4 hours and is checked; overnight stays are officially not permitted (police have moved people on) though widely tolerated if discreet. Public toilets are a few minutes' walk, sometimes closed for renovation. Traffic and sports-field noise are common, though many still sleep well. Wifi is present but unreliable; larger motorhomes fit in the upper lot.
From travellers' reviews
Listing copied from our source, 2 months ago
Listing copied from our source, 2 months ago
The parking fee is due between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.: 4 hours cost 5 francs, and it is checked several times a day. Wi-Fi and a large playground are available.
Parking with a meter in theory, or free if you do what the others do. We bought a 5 CHF ticket for four hours. 6 km from Lugano, on a national road. Fortunately, we had our bikes, making it very quick, with a beautiful view of the lake. Otherwise, there is a train station 5 minutes away on foot, with a stop in Lugano city centre. About £5 per person per trip.
Warning: daytime parking only. The police informed us that we could not sleep here. There is no sign prohibiting it, but it is municipal law. However, it is a very convenient daytime car park for visiting Swissminiatur and enjoying the lake and facilities. It is possible to park in the spaces marked for buses with our motorhome.
We initially parked in the bus area, and late in the evening we were able to move to a regular space; our motorhome is 7.5 m long. Really recommended for everything nearby: the Lido, children's games, the football pitch right next door, and the very well-maintained park for evening walks. Noise levels are fine—not peaceful like nature, but excellent for a free spot.
Simple place to stay shortly before the beach car park, where motorhomes are not allowed overnight. Free admission to the lido in the afternoon and a first dip in the lake. Toilets two minutes away. Good place for one night while passing through to Italy.
Positive is that parking is for free, almost flat and you can use public toilets across the football field. BUT be ready for noisy street close to highway, football field and playground. Cars were going through the street until late night and from early morning. Next to the parking spot is parking for buses, which make noise as well. Conclusion is that it’s working but it’s nothing comfortable.
I arrived here on Tuesday evening, and there was still football training until 10 p.m. Unfortunately, the toilets are currently being renovated and are inaccessible. I spent the night comfortably in the van. Otherwise, this place is also good for a break; the lido is beautiful and there are nice bars nearby.
Good for one night. We arrived late und left early. There was some traffic and noises, so not the best night.
Very good for one night. It was very quiet for us. Please remain inconspicuous and do not park across several fields!
Okay, it is free and close to the motorway. You can take good walks there, including with a dog. But that is all—it is very loud! Directly on the main road, next to bus parking, right by the football pitch... Young people singing their songs.
Great stopover. Quiet place for one night. Parking is free between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. During the day, parking is paid by meter or app. Two breakfast options. Excellent children's playground. Nice walk for dogs by the lake. In winter there is an ice rink for skating.
it's an ok place near the motorway, toilets and flat, road noise still audible. near the lake etc as people have said. but cannot understand the 5 stars, it is just a busy car park. fine for the night and to leave early on your journey
Next to Swissminiatur; the Wi-Fi does not always work. Free at night, which is appreciated with 5 stars.
Excellent parking for one night. We arrived late in the evening and continued before 8:00 the next morning, so the night was free. The boys did train football until midnight, though (Saturday evening), and it was correspondingly bright. Nevertheless, we slept well and felt safe. I would stop here again anytime.
Excellent pitch for one night while passing through to Italy. Quiet and safe, directly by the lake. We will definitely use it again.
Top location, directly by the lake. Toilets and restaurants in the immediate vicinity.
Very nice place to park. A little busier at night, but otherwise great. In the morning, a walk along the lake, which is right next to the parking area. :)
Quiet night on a trip to Lugano—about €12. The swimming pool toilets are open until 9 p.m., and the beach restaurant serves excellent coffee and croissants in the morning.