Mendrisio: The easy side of Switzerland

When people think of Switzerland, they picture an efficient, orderly and safe nation. However, for those considering a move to a new country, the question often arises: is it a place where you can truly enjoy life?

The answer is yes, and one of the best ways to understand why is by examining mid-sized cities, where quality of life, services and daily relationships strike a perfect balance. Mendrisio, in the south of the country, is an excellent example. 

A small city at the heart of Europe

Located in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, just a few kilometres from the Lombardy border, Mendrisio offers a remarkable blend of two cultures: the Swiss spirit of efficiency and the Mediterranean art of relaxed conviviality.

It’s an ideal place for those who work across borders or have an international family: in 20 minutes you can reach Lugano, Como, and Varese; Milan and Malpensa Airport are about an hour away by train, and Zurich just over two. 

Its geographical position is one of its strengths, but not the only one. What truly impresses newcomers is its human scale: Mendrisio is large enough to offer everything, yet small enough to make you feel part of a community right away. 

Everyday life: Simplicity and services

People moving to Switzerland sometimes wonder whether everyday life might feel a bit challenging because of administrative processes, specific routines, or language differences. Yet in the Canton of Ticino, where Italian is spoken, settling in often feels surprisingly natural and easy: schools, public offices, healthcare facilities, and shops are all within walking or cycling distance.

The city also has a modern regional hospital, several specialist practices, and home-care services. The educational offer covers all ages, from kindergarten to high school, and the presence of two university faculties contributes to a youthful and international atmosphere.

Another fact not to be overlooked: Mendrisio gets almost 2.000 hours of sunshine a year, about 25% more than northern Switzerland, making outdoor life a natural part of the routine. 

Find out more about Mendrisio

A culture of trust and safety

One of the aspects expats appreciate most is the feeling of safety. In Mendrisio, many houses have no fences, and children walk to school on their own or with the Pedibus, a community initiative where kids follow a set route on foot, accompanied by adult volunteers.

It’s a striking difference for those coming from larger, more complex cities, not only because it reduces daily worries, but because it restores a sense of freedom and peace of mind.

Safety also translates into care for public spaces, cleanliness, and respect for shared rules. For many, this contributes to mental wellbeing: knowing that everything works and that you can rely on a stable, well-organised environment. 

Work and business: An accessible Switzerland

Another frequent question concerns entrepreneurship and self-employment. Administrative procedures for starting a business are streamlined and digitalised.

In Mendrisio, dealing with institutions is particularly straightforward: the Economic Development Office assists entrepreneurs and foreign professionals with bureaucratic tasks, from obtaining licences to permits, and supports existing companies with specific needs. 

Taxation is competitive by European standards: for companies, the combined municipal, cantonal, and federal rate is around 17%, with social contributions lower than in many other countries.

Add to this a stable political and administrative environment, with few but clear laws applied with consistency. 

A network of relationships and opportunities

The universities and the diverse economy, from industry and consulting to design and technology, make Mendrisio a fertile environment for collaboration and networking.

Many local companies work with international partners, and it’s not uncommon for small businesses or startups to find the perfect place to grow without the pressure of big-city life.

Those who settle in Mendrisio from abroad often describe a positive integration experience: the city’s size encourages personal connections, and the many cultural and culinary events, such as the Sagra dell’Uva or the Fiera di San Martino, are excellent opportunities to engage with the community. 

Leisure and nature are within easy reach 

For those who choose Switzerland for its quality of life, nature is a key factor. The Mendrisiotto region offers 340 kilometres of hiking and biking trails through vineyards, forests and rolling hills, accessible year-round thanks to the mild climate.

Just minutes from the city centre are Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fossils, and Monte Generoso, which at 1.700 metres offers breathtaking views stretching to Lake Lugano and the Alps.

The city itself is rich in green spaces, playgrounds, leisure areas, and cycle paths. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy swimming (also in the summer, in the lake or open-air pool), climbing, tennis, or mountain biking. Ski resorts such as San Bernardino and Airolo are just over an hour away, with world-famous destinations like St. Moritz and Davos also within easy reach. 

The art of living well

What many appreciate most about Mendrisio is its balanced rhythm of life. It’s possible to work in a dynamic setting yet be home in minutes, to dine outdoors or take an evening stroll through the historic Borgo.

The convivial spirit, traditional grotti restaurants, and the local wine culture, with 40% of Ticino’s Merlot produced here, all contribute to a shared sense of wellbeing.