What to do in Varese

Activities, attractions and tours

Estense Palace which includes a small town or village, landscape views and a square or plaza
Varese showing night scenes and street scenes
San Vittore Basilica featuring religious aspects, art and a statue or sculpture
Varese showing street scenes, night scenes and a square or plaza
Masnago Castle showing art and interior views
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What to do in Varese

Explore areas of Varese

Varese showing street scenes, night scenes and a square or plaza

Downtown Varese

5/5(1 area review)

If you're spending some time in Downtown Varese, Castiglione Olona and San Vittore Basilica are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Varese
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Casbeno

4/5(2 area reviews)

While Casbeno may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Estense Palace and Corso Matteotti.

Casbeno
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Aggregazione Rionale 9

While Aggregazione Rionale 9 may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Castiglione Olona and Lake Varese bicycle trail.

Aggregazione Rionale 9
Varese showing street scenes, night scenes and a square or plaza

Old Town

Old Town is beloved for its panoramic lake views. Take some time to explore sights in the area like San Vittore Basilica and Corso Matteotti.

Old Town
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Sant'Ambrogio

When in Sant'Ambrogio, you can plan a visit to Masnago Castle and Sacro Monte di Varese, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Sant'Ambrogio
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Aggregazione Rionale 4

If you're spending some time in Aggregazione Rionale 4, Sacro Monte di Varese and Sacred Mountain of the Rosary are top sights worth seeing.

Aggregazione Rionale 4

Day trip destinations from Varese

Induno Olona

Induno Olona

Frequently asked questions

Is Varese worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor adventures and history, there are loads of great things to do in Varese. Make sure to experience the area's blend of unmissable sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Varese?
Once you've visited top attractions like Masnago Castle and Estense Palace, spend the rest of your day enjoying the food and retail options in Varese.
What is the top tourist attraction in Varese?
Masnago Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Varese and deserves a spot on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Varese?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off popular city highlights, such as Masnago Castle, Estense Palace and Villa Menafoglio Litta Panza and Collection. The average stay in Varese is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Milan isn't far away.
Is Varese a walkable city?
It depends on what you want to do and see in Varese. Several top attractions, such as Masnago Castle and Estense Palace, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Varese's neighbourhoods, Aggregazione Rionale 1 is 0.32 kilometers away from downtown, while Downtown Varese is 0.16 kilometers away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Varese with kids?
If you're looking for attractions and activities for all ages, check out these awesome ideas for what to do in Varese with kids.

What to do in Varese for adults?
Le Cappelle and Collegiata Museum are just two of the things to do in Varese. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Varese?
In Varese, Lake Varese bicycle trail is a popular spot for anyone looking to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a top way to learn about the best free things to do in Varese.