Varese Province
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By Dion Protani
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The Varese Province occupies a total geographical area of 1,198 square kilometres, including the provincial capital: the city of Varese.
Within the province there are 138 provincial towns, known as communes (comune singular or comuni plural in Italian). The total population of Varese Province is around 890 thousand inhabitants. |
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Among the visitor highlights in the province are its series of lakes which include Lake Varese, the expansive Lake Maggiore, Lake Lake Monate and Lake Lugano which it shares with Switzerland.
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Varese Province • Lombardy • Northern Italy
The province of Varese is located in the northern part of Lombardy, bordering Switzerland to the north and nestled between the foothills of the Alps and the expansive plains of the Po Valley to the south. Known for its scenic landscapes, charming lakes, and proximity to the bustling city of Milan, Varese offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and outdoor activities. The province is also home to a wealth of historic sites and beautiful parks, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Varese, the provincial capital, is a city with a rich history, dating back to Roman times. The city is particularly famous for its beautiful gardens, including the Parco di Villa Panza, a sprawling park that also houses a contemporary art collection. Varese's historic centre features several architectural gems, such as the stunning Basilica di San Vittore and the Palazzo Estense, a magnificent baroque palace. The city is also known for its educational and cultural institutions, and its proximity to Lake Varese offers opportunities for boating, cycling, and leisurely walks along the water.
The surrounding area is renowned for its lakes, such as Lake Maggiore, which is just a short drive from Varese and offers breathtaking views, charming lakeside villages, and opportunities for water sports and boat tours. The region is also home to the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park, a large natural reserve offering hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching amidst rolling hills and forests. The province’s proximity to the Alps provides further opportunities for outdoor activities, including skiing in the winter months. With its combination of natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and historical sites, Varese offers a tranquil yet enriching experience for visitors to Lombardy.
Varese, the provincial capital, is a city with a rich history, dating back to Roman times. The city is particularly famous for its beautiful gardens, including the Parco di Villa Panza, a sprawling park that also houses a contemporary art collection. Varese's historic centre features several architectural gems, such as the stunning Basilica di San Vittore and the Palazzo Estense, a magnificent baroque palace. The city is also known for its educational and cultural institutions, and its proximity to Lake Varese offers opportunities for boating, cycling, and leisurely walks along the water.
The surrounding area is renowned for its lakes, such as Lake Maggiore, which is just a short drive from Varese and offers breathtaking views, charming lakeside villages, and opportunities for water sports and boat tours. The region is also home to the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park, a large natural reserve offering hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching amidst rolling hills and forests. The province’s proximity to the Alps provides further opportunities for outdoor activities, including skiing in the winter months. With its combination of natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and historical sites, Varese offers a tranquil yet enriching experience for visitors to Lombardy.
Highlights
- Lake Varese: The province is home to Lake Varese, a beautiful glacial lake surrounded by lush vegetation and walking paths. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and picnicking along the lake's shores.
- Sacro Monte di Varese: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a religious complex located on a hill overlooking Varese. It consists of 14 chapels, each dedicated to a different event in the life of the Virgin Mary. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Campo dei Fiori: A mountain range in the province, offering opportunities for hiking, trekking, and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
- Villa Panza: A historical villa turned art museum, showcasing contemporary art collections and beautiful gardens.
- Castiglione Olona: A charming medieval village with well-preserved architecture, including the Collegiate Church of San Vittore and the Branda Castle.
- Cultural Events: Varese hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including music concerts, art exhibitions, and food fairs.
- Varese City: The capital city of the province, Varese, is known for its elegant architecture, including the neo-Renaissance Palazzo Estense and the Villa Recalcati. The city's historic centre is a pleasant place to stroll and explore.
- Cuisine: Varese is known for its delicious cuisine, influenced by both Lombard and Swiss traditions. Some popular dishes include risotto, polenta, and cheese from the nearby Valsassina region.
- Climate: The climate in Varese is mild, with warm summers and relatively cold winters. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
Provincia di Varese
Neighbouring provinces: Metropolitan City of Milan, Monza and Brianza, Como, Novara, Verbano Cusio Ossola
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Neighbouring region: Piedmont
International border: Switzerland
