Varenna Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Varenna
Varenna
Varenna
Photo by Arunotai Pjnp
Photo by Richard Wilson

Discover the elegance and charm for which Lake Como is famous at this ancient fishing village. Find grand villas, shady piazzas and plenty of gelato.

Enjoy the beauty of Varenna, where jumbled multicolored buildings are wedged between steep hilly slopes and the still waters of Lake Como. Appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and discover the culture, history and architecture of this lakeside haven.

The appeal of Varenna lies in its simplicity. Narrow lanes weave past old fishermen’s houses. The little strip of shingle beach is perfect for swimming during hot summers. Indulge in fun lakeside activities, enjoy a long leisurely lunch in a traditional restaurant. Visit the gardens of one of the two regal villas, Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi.

Like its Lake Como neighbours, Varenna has a charming waterfront, where a small harbour, a promenade lined with traditional gelaterie(ice cream parlors) and stunning mansions create a romantic Italian Lakes atmosphere. Head up the lanes into the town to find the leafy Piazza San Giorgio. Step inside the Chiesa di San Giorgio and the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista. Both churches have impressive frescoes.

Wander around the stunning gardens of the Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi and be amazed at the vivid blooms. Stretching along the shores of the lake, the gardens weave around ornamental statues and manicured lawns. Villa Monastero is open to the public daily in summer and on select days in other seasons. Visit the villa along with the Casa Museo museum.

Venture a little further out of the main town to the nearby hamlet of Fiumelatte to see the tiny Fiumelatte River, which flows a bright white in summer. The word “fiumelatte” means “milk river.” For truly breathtaking views, climb up the hill to the ancient Castello di Vezio, the home of the queen of Lombardy many centuries ago.

Varenna provides an excellent base for exploring Lake Como. A direct train line links the little fishing town with Milan, which has several international airports. Spend a fun day aboard one of the ferries that cross the water and link Varenna to other lakeside towns and villages.

Fontana Del Lago Apt. 7

Fontana Del Lago Apt. 7

Strada Provinciale 44, Varenna, LC
Stay at this apartment in Varenna. Enjoy free parking, balconies or patios and satellite TV channels. Popular attractions Bellagio Port and Menaggio Beach are ...
7.2/10 Good! (8 reviews)
"Instructions for check in were detailed and we had no problems. We were able to find a parking spot in the garage but be warned there are only a few and it's first come first serve. The view from the apartment is breathtaking. The location is in Fiumelatte, a 20-ish minute walk to Varenna which we ..."

Reviewed on 28 Sep 2024

Fontana Del Lago Apt. 7
Varenna Lake View 2

Varenna Lake View 2

Varenna, LC
Stay at this apartment in Varenna. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and balconies. Popular attractions Menaggio Beach and Bellagio Port are located nearby.
Varenna Lake View 2
Casa Al Prato Apt. B

Casa Al Prato Apt. B

Piazza del Prato 18, Varenna, LC
Stay at this apartment in Varenna. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, furnished balconies or patios and cable TV channels. Popular attractions Bellagio Port and Menaggio Beach ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (10 reviews)
"The location is great. The accommodation is spacious and with good amenities. Need to ask for wifi password ahead of time as it is not included on the check-in instructions."

Reviewed on 28 Jul 2025

Casa Al Prato Apt. B
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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