Castello di Vezio Varenna
A 12th-century medieval fortress perched above Varenna, offering breathtaking Lake Como views and unique 'ghost' sculptures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Castello di Vezio Varenna
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 12th-century medieval fortress perched above Varenna, offering breathtaking Lake Como views and unique 'ghost' sculptures.
"Unbeatable panorama views of Lake Como! This is a must visit."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up can be steep and pebbled. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the castle grounds.
🚗 Parking & Walk
Park near Vezio and walk up; the path is scenic but can be challenging.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake Views
Castle Tower
Soak in unparalleled vistas of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains from the castle's ancient tower.
Mysterious Ghost Sculptures
Castle Gardens
Discover enigmatic white figures scattered throughout the gardens, evoking ancient legends and adding a unique artistic touch.
+1
Medieval Fortress Exploration
Castle Grounds
Explore the well-preserved medieval fortress, including its historic tower and dungeons, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Castello di Vezio
Best Time to Visit for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up can be steep and pebbled. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the castle grounds.
🚗 Parking & Walk
Park near Vezio and walk up; the path is scenic but can be challenging.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
Entry is around €5-€7, with senior discounts available. A great value for the views!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for breathtaking panoramic shots of Lake Como.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up can be steep and pebbled. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the castle grounds.
🚗 Parking & Walk
Park near Vezio and walk up; the path is scenic but can be challenging.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
Entry is around €5-€7, with senior discounts available. A great value for the views!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for breathtaking panoramic shots of Lake Como.
🦉 Unique Owl Exhibit
Observe the resident owl in its enclosure; a unique and somewhat unnerving sight.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Castello di Vezio for its breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como and its beautiful, well-preserved medieval grounds. The unique 'ghost' sculptures add an artistic and mysterious element, making it a memorable experience. While the climb can be steep, most find it well worth the effort for the stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere. +1
"The walk up to this castle nearly took my life - however it was MORE THAN WORTH IT and I’d do it again! This castle rocked my world. Atmospheric music playing as we walked up to the top, only to be met with the best view in Italy. When we came down from the castle, we discovered an incredible dungeon - I won’t spoil it but the dungeon is a very spooky highlight that I thoroughly recommend. Overall this castle is worth the pain it takes to get up to it and I highly recommend you make the visit."
Gaby S
"A stunning and well-preserved castle. While not particularly large, its simplicity adds to its charm. The hike to reach it took about 45 minutes, but it was absolutely worth it. There is an alternative route for those arriving by car, but I opted to walk for a more authentic experience. The view of Lake Como was indescribable! Visited in September.
Entry was €7."
Juliana Lemos
"Amazing views! Absolutely worth going there😍 but the climb to the castle is steep and it takes approximately 30 minutes, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and have water!
in the ticket office you can buy drinks and snacks (we had a very yummy hot chocolate ☺️) and there're places to sit. Moreover, there's a picnic area"
Fidan Gadzhieva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Castello di Vezio by walking from Varenna. The path is scenic but can be steep and pebbled, taking about 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive closer to the castle, but parking is limited.
Yes, there is parking available just outside the inhabited area of Vezio, from where you can walk to the castle entrance. Parking spots are limited.
While you can take a ferry to Varenna, Castello di Vezio is located above the village and requires a walk or drive to reach. The ferry is a great way to arrive in Varenna itself. +1
The most convenient way to reach Varenna is by train from Milan Central Station, which is a direct and affordable route. From Varenna, you can then proceed to Castello di Vezio.
The walk from Varenna to Castello di Vezio is described as a bit steep and challenging due to the pebbled pathway, especially the final ascent. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for Castello di Vezio is typically around €5 to €7 per person. Senior tickets are often available at a reduced price of €4.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the door upon arrival. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for any specific booking requirements, especially during peak season.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Castello di Vezio website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date information on operating times.
Yes, discounts are often available, particularly for seniors. It's worth inquiring at the ticket office about any other potential discounts.
Yes, you can typically buy your admission tickets directly at the entrance of Castello di Vezio.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The castle tower offers the most iconic panoramic views of Lake Como. The gardens with the ghost sculptures also provide unique and atmospheric photo opportunities. +1
Drone footage has been captured at Castello di Vezio, showcasing the stunning landscape. However, always check local regulations regarding drone usage before flying.
Expect breathtaking, unbeatable panoramic views of Lake Como, the surrounding mountains, and the charming village of Varenna.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout the castle grounds and tower for personal use. Specific restrictions, if any, would likely be posted onsite.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, offers the most magical light for photography, enhancing the beauty of the lake and castle.
🎫 🏛️ History & Features
Castello di Vezio is an ancient medieval fortress dating back to the 12th century, originally built as a military outpost to defend the territory.
The 'ghosts' are temporary sculptures made of gauze and plaster, often created with living people, that evoke ancient legends and add an artistic, mysterious element to the gardens.
Yes, occasional falconry shows are held at Castello di Vezio, adding another unique experience to your visit.
There is an owl kept in an enclosure at the castle. Its presence is noted by visitors, though its specific significance is not always clear.
Yes, Castello di Vezio features a small botanical garden, adding to the natural beauty and tranquility of the grounds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a full restaurant, there is a nice cafe and bathroom facilities available at the castle, and a picnic area for visitors.
Yes, there is a designated picnic area, allowing you to enjoy your own food while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Varenna offers several charming cafes and restaurants, including places like Bar il Molo, where you can enjoy local cuisine after visiting the castle.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While the walk up can be a bit steep, it's manageable for most families, and the rewarding views from the top are a great motivator. 🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
+1 The blend of medieval architecture, natural beauty, and contemporary art installations creates a visually rich environment. Drone enthusiasts will also find ample opportunities to capture stunning aerial footage, provided they adhere to local regulations. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enigmatic 'Ghosts' of Castello di Vezio
+1 These enigmatic figures are designed to evoke ancient legends and add a unique, artistic, and slightly eerie atmosphere to the medieval setting. Visitors often find them intriguing and a perfect subject for atmospheric photography. The artists reportedly recreate these figures annually, ensuring their presence continues to captivate visitors. These 'ghosts' are a testament to the castle's ability to blend history with contemporary art, offering a surreal experience that sets Castello di Vezio apart from other historical sites. They contribute to the castle's reputation as a place of 'a thousand experiences,' as described by its own social media.
The artistic interpretation adds a layer of storytelling to the visit, encouraging visitors to imagine the past and the legends associated with this ancient fortress.Navigating to Castello di Vezio: A Traveler's Guide
Alternatively, driving is an option, with parking available just outside the inhabited area of Vezio. However, these parking spots are limited.
For those who prefer a more leisurely approach to Varenna itself, taking a ferry across Lake Como offers stunning views and a classic Italian lake experience. The Unbeatable Panoramas of Lake Como
These views are consistently highlighted by visitors as a major draw and a definite 'must-see' when in Lake Como. The best time to experience these views is often cited as late afternoon, particularly during the 'golden hour' before sunset.
+1 Even on a slightly overcast day, the scenery is described as spectacular. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit