Locarno, on the shores of Lake Maggiore, has a charming atmosphere steeped in history, which can be felt above all in the city’s nerve center, Piazza Grande. The oldest part of Locarno is known as the Old Town, and is full of historic buildings, boutiques, and churches, as well as the Visconti Castle. Locarno is also known as the “city of cinema,” a reputation it owes to the renowned Locarno Film Festival, which awards the prestigious Golden Leopard. The cultural vibrancy of this place can be felt in all seasons: in winter, the Winterland ice rink attracts thousands of visitors, while in summer one of the most eagerly awaited events is the Moon&Stars festival. Not far from Locarno, the nearby valleys such as Val Maggia and Val Verzasca offer a wide range of sports, from trekking to canyoning, horse riding to bungee jumping.