Swissminiatur
The miniature park in Melide shows over 130 models of Swiss structures and means of transport at 1:25 scale plus workshop access.
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About the museum
The idea for the park came from Valais resident Pierre Vuigner, municipal secretary and grocer from Grimisuat, who was inspired by the Dutch Madurodam. After searching across Switzerland, he found the right location in Melide on Lake Lugano; the municipality initially gave him the land for 30 years, the contract was later extended several times and runs until 2042. On June 6, 1959, Swissminiatur opened, still with unfinished lawns and a Matterhorn just being built.
In the 1970s the park experienced a boom because many guests came from Italy across the border; Vuigner invested in new models and attractions and advertised with renowned artists. After the lira exchange rate collapsed, the park increasingly attracted guests from other countries. In 1986, Vuigner handed over management to his two sons.
Today the park displays over 130 handcrafted models of famous buildings, monuments and means of transport at the rare 1:25 scale, plus a model railroad with about 3,560 meters of track and 18 trains, cable cars, ships and a highway. In studio and workshop, partly into the mountain, the models are built, restored and maintained.
Highlights
- Over 130 models of Swiss structures at 1:25 scale
- Model railroad network with approx. 3,560 m of track and 18 trains
- Studio and workshop where models are made
- Mascot Rudy with quiz, escape city and family activities
- View of Lake Lugano, Monte Generoso and San Salvatore
Permanent exhibitions
- Die Schweiz im Massstab 1:25 – Over 130 handcrafted models of famous buildings, monuments and means of transport in open air, connected by model railroad network with trains, cable cars and ships.
- Atelier und Werkstatt – Craftspeople build and restore models; guests can watch them work.
- Founded
- 1959
- Operated by
- Management Swissminiatur SA
Admission & discounts
| Adults | CHF 22 |
|---|---|
| Reduced | CHF 17Students from 16 and IV recipients (17 CHF); AHV recipients pay 18 CHF |
| Children & teens | CHF 15free up to age 5 · Children and young people 6 to 15 years; younger children free |
| Seniors | CHF 18AHV recipients |
| Visitors with disabilities | CHF 17With IV card |
| Students & apprentices | CHF 17Students from 16 and IV |
| Groups (10+ people) | –Groups 10+ on request via group form. School classes: students 6–15 years 9 CHF, 16+ years 12 CHF, adult accompanying persons 16.50 CHF, one teacher per class free. |
| Families | CHF 401 adult with children 6 to 15 years; 2 adults with children cost 60 CHF |
| Family ticket (2 adults + children 6–15 years) | CHF 60 |
| Annual subscription (2 adults + children 6–15 years) | CHF 100 |
| Studio tour for school classes (approx. 20 minutes) | CHF 50Per class, plus admission |
Discounts at ticket office upon presentation of card: 20% with Lugano Holiday Card, Melide Tourist Card and Ticino Ticket, 30% with Swiss Travel Pass (with valid ticket), 10% or 5% cashback in LVGA points with MyLugano Card or MyLugano Pass; 20% with RailAway combination offer. Combination tickets with other Lake Lugano attractions sold online. Tickets valid one year from purchase.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible: no information
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom: no information
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
According to park note, Melide station not accessible for people with mobility restrictions. Dogs welcome.
Kids & families
Great for kids & families
| Time needed | approx. 60 min |
|---|---|
| Kids’ admission | free up to age 5 |
| Family ticket | CHF 40 · 1 adult with children 6 to 15 years; 2 adults with children cost 60 CHF |
- Family tours & workshops
- Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
Mascot Rudy accompanies guests with quiz tour (15 questions), coloring book and activities; also escape city on founding of Swiss Confederation and family events. Children 6 to 15 years must be accompanied by adults.
Getting there & parking
By public transit
Melide (Bahnhof) · 200 m
By train from Lugano in 7 minutes to Melide; by ship from Lugano in about 35 minutes to Melide landing stage.
By car
Paid parking
Limited public paid parking in area; parking spots in adjacent area by arrangement with park.
Public transport arrival recommended. By car on A2 exit Melide (from south) or Bissone/Campione d'Italia (from north). Melide ship landing is about 400 m from park.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Restaurant: not available
- Museum shop
Take-away kiosk with panini and snacks (also vegetarian and vegan), ice cream and drinks; souvenir shop in park.
Events & venue rental
- Spaces for rent
- Corporate events
Up to 250 guests.
Salon with park view: up to 250 people (reception), 100 (banquet), 80 (theater seating) or 40 (seminar); team building offers.
Inquiries & detailsPlan your visit
| Guided tours | yes · approx. 30 min |
|---|---|
| School programs | yes |
| Good to know | Park can be visited in approximately one hour according to its information. For groups 10+ after registration (booking@swissminiatur.ch), a 30-minute tour of studio and workshop; for school classes approx. 20 minutes. Model guide overview available online. |
