Varenna
Varenna
⭐ Ranked #36 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
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Latest page update: 1 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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There are lakes and there is Lake Como, there are lakeside towns and there is Varenna.
On my travels I've visited more than 100 of the most beautiful lakes in Italy and sought out the very best spots around each one; I'm yet to find a lakeside town more beautiful than Varenna. The dozens of towns situated around Lake Como ooze class and refinement but Varenna is the very embodiment of what all the others are trying to achieve. |
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What People Ask About Varenna
Where is Varenna located?
How do you get to Varenna by train?
Can you take a ferry from Varenna to Bellagio?
What is there to see in Varenna?
Is Varenna good for a day trip?
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Varenna: Lake Como's elegance embodied
Varenna is a charming lakeside village located on the eastern shore of Lake Como in northern Italy. Nestled between the steep mountains and the sparkling waters of the lake, it is renowned for its picturesque setting, with narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and stunning views that captivate visitors. The town has retained its traditional character, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a perfect escape for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
Varenna is home to several notable attractions, including its lovely lakeside promenade, historic villas, and the beautiful Church of San Giorgio. The village’s small harbour is a peaceful spot to relax, and the surrounding hills offer excellent opportunities for hiking, providing panoramic views of the lake and nearby mountains. The town is also known for its vibrant floral gardens, particularly those at Villa Monastero, which are a popular spot for visitors.
Nearby, the towns of Bellagio and Menaggio, located across the lake, can be easily reached by ferry, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. The city of Como, with its rich history and culture, is also within driving distance. Varenna offers the ideal blend of lakeside beauty, historic sites, and access to the surrounding attractions of Lake Como, making it a wonderful base for exploring the area.
Varenna is home to several notable attractions, including its lovely lakeside promenade, historic villas, and the beautiful Church of San Giorgio. The village’s small harbour is a peaceful spot to relax, and the surrounding hills offer excellent opportunities for hiking, providing panoramic views of the lake and nearby mountains. The town is also known for its vibrant floral gardens, particularly those at Villa Monastero, which are a popular spot for visitors.
Nearby, the towns of Bellagio and Menaggio, located across the lake, can be easily reached by ferry, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. The city of Como, with its rich history and culture, is also within driving distance. Varenna offers the ideal blend of lakeside beauty, historic sites, and access to the surrounding attractions of Lake Como, making it a wonderful base for exploring the area.
Must-see and do in Varenna:
- Varenna Waterfront and Passeggiata degli Innamorati: The lakeside promenade in Varenna, known as the “Walk of Lovers,” winds along the shore offering beautiful views of Lake Como. Colourful houses rise directly from the water, and visitors can enjoy cafés and gelaterie while strolling the scenic path. It’s a quiet and romantic setting, ideal for relaxing by the lake.
- Villa Monastero: One of the town’s main attractions, Villa Monastero is a former convent turned into a lakeside villa with stunning botanical gardens. The gardens stretch along the shoreline and include exotic plants, statues, and elegant terraces. The villa also houses a museum and conference centre, and offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Castello di Vezio: Overlooking Varenna from a hill above the town, the Castello di Vezio is a medieval fortress surrounded by olive groves and walking trails. Visitors can explore the stone towers, falconry displays, and art installations, as well as take in some of the best views of central Lake Como from the ramparts.
- Ferry and Boat Excursions: Varenna is well-connected by ferry to other towns on Lake Como, including Bellagio, Menaggio, and Tremezzo. Regular boat services allow visitors to explore the lake’s highlights in a day, while private boat rentals offer a more personalised way to discover hidden coves and lakeside villas.
- Day Trip to Bellano and the Orrido di Bellano: Just north of Varenna, Bellano is a small lakeside town with a dramatic natural gorge known as the Orrido di Bellano. A walkway through the gorge offers views of waterfalls and rock formations carved by the rushing water. It’s a short train ride or drive from Varenna and makes for an adventurous and scenic outing.
Comune di Varenna
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Province: Lecco
Region: Lombardy Population: 681 (in 2024 - source) Size: 11 km² Elevation: 220 metres Highlights: Villa Monastero, Passeggiata degli Innamorati Close by: Bellagio, Villa Carlotta, Lecco |
My recommended accommodation options for Varenna:
- Hotel du Lac Varenna Located directly on the waterfront in the heart of Varenna, this elegant hotel offers lake-view rooms, a lakeside restaurant, and a private jetty. Guests appreciate the unbeatable location near the ferry terminal, romantic atmosphere, and views across to Bellagio. €€€ (high-end)
- Albergo Milano Positioned above the lake with a panoramic terrace, this boutique hotel offers modern rooms with balconies, an acclaimed restaurant, and quick access to the old town’s narrow streets and lakeside promenade. Visitors enjoy the lake views, excellent food, and personal service. €€€ (high-end)
- Villa Torretta Housed in a historic lakeside villa just steps from the ferry terminal, this small guesthouse offers beautifully decorated rooms with balconies over the water. Guests value the period charm, peaceful setting, and proximity to both restaurants and the lakeshore. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Olivedo Located opposite the ferry port in a late 19th-century building, this family-run hotel offers lake-view rooms with vintage decor, an in-house restaurant, and private parking. Visitors enjoy the traditional feel, friendly service, and easy access to boats and the train station. €€ (mid-range)
- Casa San Giorgio A well-kept holiday apartment in the upper part of Varenna, featuring a kitchen, two bedrooms, and a balcony with mountain and partial lake views. Guests appreciate the quiet residential setting, short walk to the centre, and space for families or longer stays. €€ (mid-range)
My recommended restaurants in Varenna:
- Al Prato Restaurant: Offering traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist, Al Prato Restaurant delights diners with its scenic lakeside location and exquisite dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss their homemade pasta and seafood specialties.
- La Vista Restaurant: Perched high above the lake, La Vista Restaurant lives up to its name, providing stunning panoramic views along with delectable Mediterranean cuisine. Savour dishes like risotto, grilled fish, and homemade desserts while enjoying the romantic ambiance.
- Cava Turacciolo: Tucked away in a charming alley, Cava Turacciolo enchants visitors with its cosy atmosphere and authentic Italian flavours. Indulge in their homemade pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven or sample their array of regional dishes paired with fine wines.
- Vecchia Varenna: A favourite among locals and tourists alike, Vecchia Varenna exudes rustic charm and serves up hearty Lombardian fare. From comforting risottos to succulent grilled meats, every dish bursts with flavour, accompanied by friendly service and a welcoming ambiance.
- Bar il Molo: For a more casual dining experience, head to Bar il Molo situated right by the water's edge. This relaxed cafe offers a range of light bites, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks perfect for a quick lunch or a leisurely lakeside snack.
Varenna Gallery
Close to Varenna
- Bellagio (approx. 15 km south of Varenna): Often referred to as the "Pearl of Lake Como," Bellagio is renowned for its charming cobbled streets, stunning lakeside views, and luxurious villas, including Villa Melzi. Visitors can explore the beautiful Parco di Villa Serbelloni, walk along the picturesque waterfront promenade, and enjoy the town’s boutique shops and cafes.
- Menaggio (approx. 10 km northwest of Varenna): A tranquil lakeside town offering stunning views of the Brenta Dolomites and Lake Como, Menaggio is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with access to numerous hiking trails and the Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club. The town centre boasts quaint cafes, traditional shops, and a picturesque lakeside promenade ideal for leisurely strolls.
- Tremezzo (approx. 15 km southwest of Varenna): Famous for its Villa Carlotta, a grand estate with exquisite botanical gardens, Tremezzo offers a relaxed atmosphere and splendid lakeside views. The village is also known for its historical architecture, including the Chiesa di San Lorenzo. Visitors can enjoy the serene lakeside environment and take boat tours to nearby islands.
- Lecco (approx. 25 km east of Varenna): Nestled at the southeastern end of Lake Como, Lecco is a vibrant town offering beautiful lake views, scenic walks, and historic landmarks such as the Piazza XX Settembre and Villa Manzoni, the former home of the famous author. Lecco is also a gateway for outdoor activities, with the surrounding mountains providing plenty of opportunities for hiking and climbing.
- Colico (approx. 30 km north of Varenna): Situated at the northern tip of Lake Como, Colico is known for its peaceful setting and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the historic Fort Montecchio, a well-preserved World War I fortress, and enjoy the area’s many hiking and cycling paths. The town’s lakeside location makes it ideal for water sports such as sailing and windsurfing.
Lake Como Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Varenna
2. Como
3. Bellagio
4. Menaggio
5. Tremezzo
6. Lenno
7. Argegno
8. Cernobbio
9. Bellano
10. Colico
👉 Explore the Top 10 Towns on Lake Como
1. Varenna
2. Como
3. Bellagio
4. Menaggio
5. Tremezzo
6. Lenno
7. Argegno
8. Cernobbio
9. Bellano
10. Colico
👉 Explore the Top 10 Towns on Lake Como
Varenna Travel
What are the closest airports to Varenna?
Any of the three main airports that serve the Milan area are the most convenient for Varenna. Journey times from Varenna to the airports of Malpensa, Bergamo and Linate are all very similar: between an hour and a quarter to an hour and a half.
Milan Linate Airport (LIN)
Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY)
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
- Located 79 kilometres from Varenna (1 hour 14 minutes by car)
Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY)
- Located 62 kilometres from Varenna (1 hour 23 minutes by car)
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
- Located 97 kilometres from Varenna (1 hour 28 minutes by car)
Does Varenna have its own train station?
Yes, Varenna has its own train station which is located close to the town centre, a walk of around 10-15 minutes.
Stazione di Varenna-Esino
Stazione di Varenna-Esino
- Located 850 metres from Varenna town centre (12 minutes on foot)
- Trains connect to Milan city centre with journey times of just over an hour
Is it possible to reach Varenna by ferry?
Yes, Varenna has its own imbarcadero (ferry stop) which is for vehicles as well as foot passengers. It's easy to reach Varenna by ferry throughout the summer and to also visit the other major towns around Lake Como.
You can plan your ferry journey to Varenna before your trip by using our guide to the Lake Como ferry system using the green button below. Alternatively, you can visit the official Lake Como ferry website for immediate ticket purchasing.
You can plan your ferry journey to Varenna before your trip by using our guide to the Lake Como ferry system using the green button below. Alternatively, you can visit the official Lake Como ferry website for immediate ticket purchasing.
Where can I rent a car to visit Varenna?
By far the best option for Varenna car rental is to pre-book a car from the airport. Whether it's Bergamo, Malpensa or Linate airport you'll find all of the major rental companies represented with a good selection of cars to hire.
Varenna in-depth
A Lake Como jewel not to be missed!
When I started to put this guide together I resolved to visit every town around Lake Como which is no mean feat. I patiently worked my way around the lake, stopping at each town to take photos as I arrived by car. At the end of one very long day, I saw a turn-off for Varenna but saw it was blocked by a peloton of cyclists and at a whim, I decided I could give it a miss and just content myself with a long-range shot of the town I'd taken earlier from the other side of the lake.
Months later, having left the region completely, I started to do some post-visit research on the lake and kept seeing the name Varenna crop up. I started looking at photos of the town and was ashen-faced when I finally realised what a treasure I'd missed out on. Never again will I let a small group of cyclists deter me from taking a turning! I have of course returned to Varenna since and found everything I'd been hoping to find and more.
Months later, having left the region completely, I started to do some post-visit research on the lake and kept seeing the name Varenna crop up. I started looking at photos of the town and was ashen-faced when I finally realised what a treasure I'd missed out on. Never again will I let a small group of cyclists deter me from taking a turning! I have of course returned to Varenna since and found everything I'd been hoping to find and more.
Pedestrianised centre
The first thing to note about Varenna is something that's quite pertinent to my near-miss the first time around; Varenna is pedestrianised and therefore closed to vehicles which are directed around the edges of the village, rather than driving through its centre as happens with most locations around the lake. The upshot of this is a more relaxed, cleaner environment where you can explore everything on foot.
I started my Varenna walkaround from just south of the village, parking in the spacious multi-storey car park just a short walk from the centre. I decided to stop first at the beautiful Villa Monastero: a 13th century convent that was eventually dissolved in the 16th century, apparently due to some questionable behaviour by its resident nuns.
The villa complex currently has various functions but its most attractive feature is its garden. Exotic, colourful plants and flowers sprout in every direction with the backdrop of the lake lending it that unquestionable sense of elegance.
I started my Varenna walkaround from just south of the village, parking in the spacious multi-storey car park just a short walk from the centre. I decided to stop first at the beautiful Villa Monastero: a 13th century convent that was eventually dissolved in the 16th century, apparently due to some questionable behaviour by its resident nuns.
The villa complex currently has various functions but its most attractive feature is its garden. Exotic, colourful plants and flowers sprout in every direction with the backdrop of the lake lending it that unquestionable sense of elegance.
Lakeside gardens
Part of Villa Monastero's charm comes from the views across the lake to Villa Cipressi which should be the next stop on your discovery of the town. Although Villa Cipressi is a private hotel, it has a significant area of its gardens open to the public. Just as with Villa Monastero, the garden gently descends down to the shoreline, offering further beguiling views of the lake.
Into the town itself, the first square you arrive at is Piazza San Giorgio; named after the 13th century church of the same name that dominates its eastern edge. Piazza San Giorgio is an airy, open public space lined with trees and ringed by a number of bars and restaurants; a great place to hang out for a spot of people-watching. It also has the distinction of being home to one of the oldest churches around Lake Como, the 10th century Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista with its famous frescoes.
At this point we've had two beautiful botanical gardens and a charming square with medieval churches but the best is yet to come. If you follow the descending incline of Piazza San Giorgio you'll start to see some narrow passageways that lead down to the lake. At the top of one of the passageways you'll see a sign to the Hotel du Lac and if you walk down here you'll eventually reach the lake. Once you get down to this area of the town, you can really see what sets Varenna apart.
Into the town itself, the first square you arrive at is Piazza San Giorgio; named after the 13th century church of the same name that dominates its eastern edge. Piazza San Giorgio is an airy, open public space lined with trees and ringed by a number of bars and restaurants; a great place to hang out for a spot of people-watching. It also has the distinction of being home to one of the oldest churches around Lake Como, the 10th century Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista with its famous frescoes.
At this point we've had two beautiful botanical gardens and a charming square with medieval churches but the best is yet to come. If you follow the descending incline of Piazza San Giorgio you'll start to see some narrow passageways that lead down to the lake. At the top of one of the passageways you'll see a sign to the Hotel du Lac and if you walk down here you'll eventually reach the lake. Once you get down to this area of the town, you can really see what sets Varenna apart.
A riot of colour
The little bay here is made up of clusters of character-filled, multi-coloured buildings housing restaurants, bars, shops or private residences. During the summer months this area is a riot of colour with different shades of bougainvillea protruding from the gaps in between buildings while an army of trees stands to attention in the background. This is one of the nicest places in Italy to stop for a bite to eat or to simply enjoy a long, slow drink while taking in the sumptuous surroundings.
You'd be forgiven for any overindulgence in refreshment such as an ice-cream here but you have the perfect opportunity to do something about it by taking a leisurely stroll along the aptly-named Passeggiata degli Innamorati, the "Walk of Lovers". This lakeside promenade curves its way to another engaging area of Varenna called Olivedo.
A further cluster of restaurants, bars and hotels greet you here but of greater relevance, this is where you'll find Varenna's "imbarcadero", the ferry stop from which you can sail to the other towns around the lake. Varenna's transport links are further strengthened here by the town's train station which can take you south to Lecco or north to the neighbouring town of Bellano.
There is still a further delight to enjoy in Varenna: gazing down on to the town from a great height is Castello di Vezio. Dating back to the seventh century, the castle is famous for its haunting sculptures of ghosts as well as its occasional falconry displays. The walk up to the castle from the village requires some stamina and can take around half an hour or so, but if you have a car you can take the sting out of it and park just a short distance away.
You'd be forgiven for any overindulgence in refreshment such as an ice-cream here but you have the perfect opportunity to do something about it by taking a leisurely stroll along the aptly-named Passeggiata degli Innamorati, the "Walk of Lovers". This lakeside promenade curves its way to another engaging area of Varenna called Olivedo.
A further cluster of restaurants, bars and hotels greet you here but of greater relevance, this is where you'll find Varenna's "imbarcadero", the ferry stop from which you can sail to the other towns around the lake. Varenna's transport links are further strengthened here by the town's train station which can take you south to Lecco or north to the neighbouring town of Bellano.
There is still a further delight to enjoy in Varenna: gazing down on to the town from a great height is Castello di Vezio. Dating back to the seventh century, the castle is famous for its haunting sculptures of ghosts as well as its occasional falconry displays. The walk up to the castle from the village requires some stamina and can take around half an hour or so, but if you have a car you can take the sting out of it and park just a short distance away.
