Lugano: The Swiss City Embracing Bitcoin as Payment

Thu Dec 11 2025 08:57:28 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Lugano, Switzerland, transforms into a cryptocurrency hub, allowing residents and visitors to pay for goods and services with Bitcoin, fostering a new economic landscape.

The city of Lugano has taken significant steps to integrate Bitcoin into daily transactions, with over 350 local businesses accepting the cryptocurrency. This effort is supported by the local government, which aims to educate the public about Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, turning Lugano into a European hub for digital currency. While adoption remains gradual, enthusiasm exists among local shopkeepers and customers who see benefits despite concerns about volatility and security.

In a picturesque McDonald's by a lake surrounded by mountains in Lugano, Switzerland, a customer asks, Can I pay with bitcoin? The staff member reveals a payment terminal specially designed for cryptocurrency transactions, showcasing how the Italian-speaking city is embracing digital currency.

Encouraged by the local authorities, over 350 shops, restaurants, and even municipal services are now accepting Bitcoin payments. With the convenience of contactless payments from mobile wallets, Lugano is redefining the use of cryptocurrencies, shifting from a mere investment vehicle to everyday transactions.

Nicolas, a Bitcoin enthusiast visiting from France, expresses his excitement: What's great about paying in bitcoin is the feeling of freedom it gives you. You are no longer dependent on a financial system with its middlemen and its costs. Local establishments like Vintage Nassa even cite lower transaction fees compared to traditional credit card services.

However, the experiences vary within the city. While some businesses see sporadic Bitcoin sales, others are optimistic about future growth. Cherubino Fry, a shop owner, notes, In reality, not a lot. For now, only sporadically, only some clients... but this tree will grow very big in five, 10 years.

Plan B, a city initiative launched in 2022, emphasizes Bitcoin education and aims to establish Lugano as a significant hub for cryptocurrency in Europe. The director, Mir Liponi, shares her personal successful experience of living on Bitcoin for 11 days after a bank issue, highlighting the growing acceptance and infrastructure for digital currency in Lugano.

While interest in Bitcoin is on the rise, concerns remain over its volatility and associations with illegal activities. Local economist, Sergio Rossi, warns that without converting Bitcoin to traditional fiat currencies, shopkeepers risk exposure to significant financial fluctuations. Yet, Lugano's Mayor Michele Foletti maintains a positive outlook, noting that Bitcoin and traditional currencies can both be used for good or bad.

The growing prevalence of Bitcoin in Lugano reflects a nuanced shift in the economy, potentially setting the stage for other cities to follow suit in redefining what currency can be in the modern world.