Varese Ligure
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Latest page update: 24 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The colourful town of Varese Ligure is situated within the Province of La Spezia and has a population of just over 1,900 residents. It lies 77 kilometres east of Genoa, the capital city of the Liguria region to which the town belongs.
It stands at an elevation of 353 metres above sea level and is included in the lists of both the Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy) and Touring Club Italia's Bandiera Arancioni: the Orange Flag awarded to towns that meet certain criteria in terms of facilities for tourism. |
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What People Ask About Varese Ligure
What is Varese Ligure known for?
Is Varese Ligure worth visiting?
What is the Borgo Rotondo in Varese Ligure?
How do you get to Varese Ligure?
What can you do in Varese Ligure?
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Discover
Discover Varese Ligure
A small but fascinating town
Varese Ligure is not to be confused with the much larger city of Varese in Lombardy: the distinction is created by the addition of the word Ligure (with the stress on the first syllable) to the town's name. This happens in place names throughout Liguria and indeed the whole country to separate towns that have the same or similar names.
Although it's little more than a village, Varese Ligure somehow manages to pack in a surprising amount of sights within its tiny confines. The most iconic building in the town is the 15th century fortress: the Castello dei Fieschi, named after the noble Fieschi family which once ruled in these parts. The castle occupies a section of the town's main square: Piazza Vittorio Emanuele.
Although it's little more than a village, Varese Ligure somehow manages to pack in a surprising amount of sights within its tiny confines. The most iconic building in the town is the 15th century fortress: the Castello dei Fieschi, named after the noble Fieschi family which once ruled in these parts. The castle occupies a section of the town's main square: Piazza Vittorio Emanuele.
The main sights
To the south of the Piazza lies an area known as the Borgo Rotondo. The circular village sweeps round in an arc of multi-coloured houses enclosing a little square. Away from the Borgo, the main thoroughfare leading through the town is flanked by tall, historic buildings sporting the typical trompe l'oeil designs that can be seen throughout Liguria.
Among the cluster of buildings on one side of the street is the Chiesa e convento di San Filippo Neri e Santa Teresa d'Avila with its beautiful dome while equally eye-catching is the colourful facade of the Albergo della Posta.
Among the cluster of buildings on one side of the street is the Chiesa e convento di San Filippo Neri e Santa Teresa d'Avila with its beautiful dome while equally eye-catching is the colourful facade of the Albergo della Posta.
Exploring the town
Towards the north-western corner of Piazza Vittorio Emanuele there's a beautiful war memorial, beyond which lies a narrow tributary of the Vara River called the Torrente Crovana.
The often-dry stream leads away from the town in a north-easterly direction, with pretty houses on both sides. One of the most attractive areas of the town is the point at which the stream is crossed by the stone bridge: the Ponte di Grecino which was originally built in 1515. Footsteps are marked out on the stone bridge in an effort to guide you through the best parts of the town.
One of those areas to visit is just south of the bridge: the narrow streets of the little centro storico are hemmed-in by a number of shops, bars and restaurants. The Torre Civica tower on Via Chiesa marks the route to the eastern edge of town where the narrow street meets the wider, SP 523 provincial road. It's along this road that another church is situated: the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista built in 1872.
The often-dry stream leads away from the town in a north-easterly direction, with pretty houses on both sides. One of the most attractive areas of the town is the point at which the stream is crossed by the stone bridge: the Ponte di Grecino which was originally built in 1515. Footsteps are marked out on the stone bridge in an effort to guide you through the best parts of the town.
One of those areas to visit is just south of the bridge: the narrow streets of the little centro storico are hemmed-in by a number of shops, bars and restaurants. The Torre Civica tower on Via Chiesa marks the route to the eastern edge of town where the narrow street meets the wider, SP 523 provincial road. It's along this road that another church is situated: the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista built in 1872.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Varese Ligure
- Borgo Rotondo is the historic circular core of the town, built in the 13th century with a unique concentric street plan. Houses with pastel façades and arcaded walkways form a near-perfect ring around the central piazza. It was designed for defensive purposes and remains largely intact. Walking through the alleys reveals architectural harmony and medieval town planning.
- Castello dei Fieschi stands on a rise overlooking the town and dates to the 15th century, though earlier fortifications existed on the site. The castle has two cylindrical towers and a central keep, once home to the powerful Fieschi family. Although privately owned, it remains an iconic part of the town’s skyline. Views from the surrounding area extend over the valley and rooftops.
- Ponte Romano is an arched stone bridge that crosses the Crovana stream just outside the centre. Though restored over the centuries, it retains the form and appearance of a medieval crossing. The bridge connects the old town to local walking trails. It is often photographed for its setting among hills and greenery.
- Chiesa dei Santi Filippo e Giacomo serves as the parish church and is located near the main square. Originally built in the 17th century, it features a Baroque façade, a richly painted ceiling, and marble altars. Inside are works by Ligurian artists and carved wooden furnishings. The bell tower adds vertical contrast to the circular town layout.
- Organic Valley and Eco-Tourism Network surrounds Varese Ligure and is known for being one of Italy’s first areas to embrace fully organic farming. Local producers offer cheeses, honey, and meats made using sustainable methods. Farm visits and tastings are common activities in the area. The town has received recognition for its environmental initiatives and green economy.
Varese Ligure Tours and Activities
Comune di Varese Ligure
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Province: La Spezia
Region: Liguria Population: 1,758 (in 2024 - source) Size: 136 km² Elevation: 353 metres Highlights: Castello dei Fieschi, Borgo Rotondo, Ponte di Grecino Close by: Castiglione Chiavarese, Sestri Levante, Moneglia |
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One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Un Paese tutto Bio (A Totally Biological Village) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Since: 2006 1 of 15 in Liguria listed by Touring Club Italiano |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Varese Ligure
- Hotel La Scogliera Located just outside Varese Ligure, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding mountains, a restaurant serving traditional Ligurian cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the tranquil setting, the friendly service, and the proximity to Varese Ligure’s medieval sites and local hiking trails. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Il Girasole Situated in the heart of Varese Ligure, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the personal touch of the hosts, the peaceful setting, and the easy access to the town’s main attractions, including the picturesque old town and nearby nature reserves. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo La Vigna Set in the scenic countryside near Varese Ligure, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with beautiful views, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests enjoy the authentic Ligurian experience, the peaceful rural setting, and the short drive to Varese Ligure’s attractions and the surrounding nature. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Ristorante Belvedere Located a short drive from Varese Ligure, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with scenic views of the surrounding hills, a restaurant serving local Ligurian dishes, and a bar. Guests enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, the excellent service, and the proximity to both Varese Ligure and the nearby Cinque Terre National Park. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Casa di Enrica Situated just outside Varese Ligure, this bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms with mountain views, a beautiful garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality from the hosts, the peaceful setting, and the easy access to Varese Ligure’s historical sites and surrounding hiking trails. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Varese Ligure
- Vineria del Borgo: Located in the historic centre of Varese Ligure, this wine bar offers a selection of local wines paired with traditional Ligurian dishes. The intimate atmosphere and knowledgeable staff enhance the dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- L'Osteria Du Chicchinettu: Situated in the heart of Varese Ligure, this osteria serves authentic Ligurian cuisine, including homemade pasta and fresh seafood. The friendly service and cosy setting make it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Agriturismo L'Origano: Located just outside the village, this agriturismo offers farm-to-table dining with dishes prepared from their own produce. The menu features traditional Ligurian recipes, and the scenic countryside setting adds to the charm. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Della Posta in Mattarana: A short drive from Varese Ligure, this trattoria in the village of Mattarana offers traditional Ligurian dishes in a rustic setting. Specialties include homemade pasta and local meats, all served with warm hospitality. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Castagneto in Castiglione Chiavarese: Situated in the nearby village of Castiglione Chiavarese, this restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The terrace provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, enhancing the dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Varese Ligure Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Varese Ligure
Varese Ligure doesn't have its own train station and while bus services are in operation, the best way to explore the local area is by having your own car.
The main areas of interest lies to the south of the town from where you make a gradual descent to the coast. The main road eventually leads down to the town of Sestri Levante, one of the most beautiful seaside towns in Italy.
North of Sestri Levante are some larger resorts such as Chiavari and Rapallo while the south bound road to La Spezia provides some smaller beach resorts such as Deiva Marina and Moneglia.
The main areas of interest lies to the south of the town from where you make a gradual descent to the coast. The main road eventually leads down to the town of Sestri Levante, one of the most beautiful seaside towns in Italy.
North of Sestri Levante are some larger resorts such as Chiavari and Rapallo while the south bound road to La Spezia provides some smaller beach resorts such as Deiva Marina and Moneglia.
Liguria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Liguria
1. Cinque Terre
2. Portofino
3. Sestri Levante
4. Camogli
5. Rapallo
6. Portovenere
7. Lerici
8. Santa Margherita Ligure
9. Genoa
10. Finalborgo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Liguria
1. Cinque Terre
2. Portofino
3. Sestri Levante
4. Camogli
5. Rapallo
6. Portovenere
7. Lerici
8. Santa Margherita Ligure
9. Genoa
10. Finalborgo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Liguria
Getting There
Getting There
By Rail: Varese Ligure does not have its own train station. The nearest railway station is in Sestri Levante, approximately 30 km away. From Sestri Levante, you can take a local bus to Varese Ligure, with a journey time of about 45 minutes.
By Road: Varese Ligure is approximately 77 km east of Genoa, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A12 motorway. From Genoa, follow the signs to La Spezia, and then take the exit for Varese Ligure. The town is also accessible via the SP523 road, connecting it to the surrounding areas.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Varese Ligure is approximately 77 km east of Genoa, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A12 motorway. From Genoa, follow the signs to La Spezia, and then take the exit for Varese Ligure. The town is also accessible via the SP523 road, connecting it to the surrounding areas.
Nearest International Airports:
- Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (Aeroporto di Genova): Located about 80 km southwest of Varese Ligure, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A12 motorway. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach Varese Ligure.
- Pisa International Airport (Aeroporto di Pisa): Situated about 150 km southeast of Varese Ligure, the drive takes around 2 hours via the A12 motorway. From Pisa, you can rent a car or take public transport to reach the town.
