slowUp Ticino 2026: April 19 for a car-free day (cross-border guide)

Context

TL;DR

• 50 km of car-free roads between Locarno and Bellinzona
• Event on Sunday, 19 April 2026, 10:00-17:00
• Pedestrians, cyclists, and non-motorized vehicles only
• 18 themed stops with activities and local food

Key facts

• Event Name: SlowUp Ticino 2026
• Date: Sunday, 19 April 2026
• Time: 10:00 to 17:00
• Route Length: 50 kilometres
• Route: Locarno to Bellinzona
• Municipalities: Locarno, Muralto, Minusio, Tenero-Contra, Gordola, Cugnasco-Gerra, Cadenazzo, Sant’Antonino, Camorino, Bellinzona
• Construction Exception: Minusio, red path affected by construction work
• Public Transport: Free on SBB CFF FFS trains within Ticino on the day

SlowUp Ticino returns, the annual event that transforms 50 kilometres of roads between Locarno and Bellinzona into a dedicated artery for pedestrians, cyclists and non-motorized vehicles. The event is scheduled for Sunday, 19 April 2026, from 10:00 to 17:00, along the route passing through the municipalities of Locarno, Muralto, Minusio, Tenero-Contra, Gordola, Cugnasco-Gerra, Cadenazzo, Sant’Antonino, Camorino and Bellinzona.

The initiative, promoted by local organizers and supported by sports and recreational associations, is part of the first edition of the 2026 season of the 18 slowUp events held across Switzerland. The motto chosen for the Ticino edition is clear: ‘Live a car-free day’, with the aim of promoting slow mobility, movement and the discovery of the local area.

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Operational details

For cross-border workers and Ticino residents, slowUp offers a unique chance to experience the region in a different way: free from daily traffic pressures and with the opportunity to uncover hidden gems between Locarno and Bellinzona. The event aligns with a broader push for sustainable mobility, which in recent years has seen growing interest in alternatives to private cars—especially in a region like Ticino, where cross-border commuting is widespread.

Before vs after: what changes for participants

Before slowUp, those who commute daily between Italy and Switzerland plan their journeys around peak hours, carefully navigating queues on the A2 or public transport delays. On Sunday, 19 April 2026, however, the entire stretch between Locarno and Bellinzona becomes a living lab for slow mobility. For those living in Lombardy and working in Ticino, this means stepping away from personal vehicles and exploring alternative routes—perhaps even discovering new ways to access Ticino’s urban centres.

Practical scenarios: how to plan your visit

Participants have several options to choose from:

• Full route: 50 km from Locarno to Bellinzona, with stops along the way to refresh or eat.
• Partial sections: select just one segment, such as from Gordola to Cadenazzo, to avoid the busiest areas.
• Arrival by train: use the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or regional lines to reach Locarno or Bellinzona, then access the slowUp route. Locarno and Bellinzona stations will serve as ideal starting points.

A key consideration is luggage or shopping. Since vehicles—including cars and motorcycles—will be excluded, those needing to transport bulky items should plan ahead, perhaps relying on home delivery services or local shops along the route, which will remain open for the occasion.

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Key points

Taking part in slowUp Ticino 2026 is straightforward, but it requires a bit of planning to make the most of the day. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you’re fully prepared.

1. Plan your arrival on the route

If you’re coming from outside Canton Ticino, consider taking the train: Locarno and Bellinzona stations are directly connected to Milan, Como, and other Lombard cities. From there, you can access the slowUp route on foot or by bicycle.

Practical tip: Check train schedules in advance, as some services may be adjusted for the event.

2. Choose your access point

The route is accessible from any point. If you’re starting from Locarno, you can begin your adventure at Piazza Grande or the Lido. If you prefer Bellinzona, the natural starting point is near the FFS train station.

3. Prepare for internal travel

Since cars and motorcycles won’t be allowed, bring only what you can carry by hand or on your bicycle. If you need to transport heavy items, consider renting a small cart or arranging delivery to one of the rest stops.

4. Check out agricultural stops and activities

Before you set off, consult the official event map (available on the organizers’ website) to identify the agricultural stops and activities that interest you. Some, like tastings, may require advance booking.

5. Plan your return trip

If you’re arriving by train, make sure you have your return ticket. If you’re cycling, check for secure bike parking at train stations, where you can safely leave your bicycle.

Tools to help you organize

For those looking to plan their day in detail, the organizers’ website provides an interactive map of the route with all the stops and activities. You can also download the slowUp app to receive real-time updates on stops and any changes to the route.

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