Just 30 minutes from Brunate, across the Swiss border, Lugano hosts one of Europe’s most exciting independent film festivals. The OtherMovie Lugano Film Festival brings together, every year, filmmakers, cinephiles and culture lovers for ten days of screenings, talks and creative encounters in the heart of Ticino.

What Is the OtherMovie Festival?

Founded as a platform for independent and experimental cinema, OtherMovie has grown into a cultural highlight of the Lugano calendar. Each edition explores a theme of its own — featuring documentaries, short films and feature-length works from emerging directors worldwide.

Why Combine Lugano and Brunate?

Lugano and Brunate share the same pre-Alpine lakeside DNA. After a day of screenings in Lugano’s elegant venues, cross back into Italy and end your evening at MamaGina Brunate — where Italian bistro cuisine meets the most spectacular sunset view on Lake Como. It’s the perfect cross-border cultural itinerary.

Getting Between Lugano and Brunate

The drive from Lugano to Como takes approximately 30 minutes via the A2/E35 motorway. From Como, take the funicular to Brunate (7 minutes). Alternatively, the regional train connects Lugano to Como San Giovanni station in about 40 minutes.

Make it a perfect evening → Book your table at MamaGina

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Lugano from Lake Como? Lugano is approximately 30 km from Como, reachable in 30 minutes by car or 40 minutes by train.

Do I need a passport to visit Lugano from Italy? EU/Schengen citizens can cross freely with an ID card. Non-EU visitors should check Swiss entry requirements.