Capital: Campione d'Italia
Government: Autonomous Community (Italy) Population: 2067 Currency: Swiss Franc Continent: Europe Official language: Italian Area: 1.6 km2 |
It’s hard to tell but Campione d'Italia really is part of Italy surrounded by Switzerland. Sitting on the southern shores of Lago di Lugano, it has an appealing old town with a medieval church and a piazza lined with al fresco cafes. Forested slopes fling up spectacularly above the town. The town's biggest draw is its casino, designed by Ticino's most feted architect, Mario Botta.
There are no border formalities (but take your passport anyway). Many cars in the village have Swiss number plates, and the area uses Swiss telephones and Swiss francs.
There are no border formalities (but take your passport anyway). Many cars in the village have Swiss number plates, and the area uses Swiss telephones and Swiss francs.