
Lovers' Walk
Varenna, a jewel on Lake Como, enchants with colorful houses, romantic lakeside walks, and stunning villa gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wisteria blooms, fewer crowds

Lovers' Walk
Best Time
Wisteria blooms, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Varenna, a jewel on Lake Como, enchants with colorful houses, romantic lakeside walks, and stunning villa gardens.
"Stepping into Varenna feels like walking into a postcard, with breathtaking views at every turn."

🎯 Train to Varenna is Budget-Friendly
Trains from Milan to Varenna are affordable (around 5€) and frequent. Book in advance for assigned seats if possible. ,
🚤 Rent a Boat for Freedom
Self-drive boats from Varenna offer a unique way to explore, swim, and picnic on the lake.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Passeggiata degli Innamorati
Lakeside walkway
A romantic stroll with stunning lake views, red railings, and blooming flowers. Perfect for sunset!

Villa Monastero
Varenna
Explore elegant botanical gardens and a historic villa with breathtaking lake vistas. ,

Castello di Vezio
Hilltop above Varenna
Discover ancient ruins, enjoy panoramic views, and witness falconry demonstrations.

Orrido di Nesso Waterfall
Nesso village
A dramatic waterfall cascading into the lake, offering a unique and picturesque sight. ,
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds in Varenna
Getting to Varenna is Easy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Train to Varenna is Budget-Friendly
Trains from Milan to Varenna are affordable (around 5€) and frequent. Book in advance for assigned seats if possible.,
🚤 Rent a Boat for Freedom
Self-drive boats from Varenna offer a unique way to explore, swim, and picnic on the lake.
🚶♀️ Embrace the Steps
Varenna's charm involves many stairs and inclines. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring!
📸 Capture Sunset Magic
The 'Lovers' Walk' is ideal for sunset photos with stunning lake and village views.,
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Train to Varenna is Budget-Friendly
Trains from Milan to Varenna are affordable (around 5€) and frequent. Book in advance for assigned seats if possible.,
🚤 Rent a Boat for Freedom
Self-drive boats from Varenna offer a unique way to explore, swim, and picnic on the lake.
🚶♀️ Embrace the Steps
Varenna's charm involves many stairs and inclines. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring!
📸 Capture Sunset Magic
The 'Lovers' Walk' is ideal for sunset photos with stunning lake and village views.,
🍽️ Local Eats in Varenna
Try Bistrot Antichi Sapori for good food without breaking the bank.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Varenna is widely praised for its breathtaking beauty, romantic atmosphere, and charming streets, making it a highlight of Lake Como. Visitors love the picturesque lakeside walks, stunning villa gardens, and panoramic views. Some find the numerous steps challenging, and crowds can detract from the tranquility during peak hours.
"The “Lovers’ Walk” along Lake Como is more than just a path—it feels like stepping into a postcard. The views of the lake shimmer with changing light, and every turn reveals another breathtaking perspective framed by mountains and water. There is a quiet romance in the air, whether you are walking as a couple, with friends, or simply alone with your thoughts. The stroll is short but unforgettable, offering a rare mix of beauty, serenity, and timeless charm."
I P
"📍 Passeggiata degli Innamorati – Varenna, Lake Como, Italy 🇮🇹
A romantic lakeside walkway 🌊🌹 that connects the ferry terminal ⛴️ to Varenna’s old town. From there you can walk uphill and through staircases 🚶♂️⬆️ to reach 📍 Villa Monastero 🌿🏛️, then return down to the ferry station in time to board for Bellagio ⛴️. The path is short but very scenic, with red railings, flowers 🌸, and stunning views of Lake Como 🏞️—especially beautiful at sunset 🌅. A charming walk, though be ready for some steps along the way."
Quing_刘妈妈
"Best place in Varenna to soak in all the charm of this lake town and Lake Como itself. You'll be able to see Bellagio from here and also take some stunning pictures of the village and the lake with great backdrops."
Suresh Kumili
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by train from Milan Central to Varenna-Esino station, which takes about an hour and costs around 5€.,, From the station, it's a short walk downhill to the town center. You can also take a ferry from other Lake Como towns.
Yes, Varenna is an excellent base. It's well-connected by ferry to Bellagio and Menaggio, and its train station makes day trips easy.
Absolutely! Varenna is a popular and feasible day trip from Milan, offering beautiful scenery and charming streets.,
Ferries are the most scenic and practical way to hop between towns like Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio.,
Parking in Varenna can be very limited and challenging due to its narrow streets. Arriving by train or ferry is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Villa Monastero and its gardens. It's worth it for the beautiful scenery and historical insights.,
Castello di Vezio typically opens daily from spring through autumn, but hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or local listings before your visit.
No, the 'Lovers' Walk' (Passeggiata degli Innamorati) is a public walkway and is free to access.
Varenna hosts various events, especially during spring and summer. Check local tourism websites for current schedules. Villa Cipressi also hosts events.,
Ferry ticket prices vary depending on the route and type of ferry (fast or slow). A one-way trip between Varenna and Bellagio is generally affordable.
📸 📸 Photography
Key spots include the 'Lovers' Walk' for sunset, the colorful streets, Villa Monastero gardens, and viewpoints from Castello di Vezio.,,
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon and sunset provide a magical golden glow.
Drone usage is often restricted in historic towns and near villas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and village shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive lake views.
Yes, Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi are known for their beautiful wisteria blooms in spring, offering stunning photographic opportunities.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lake, rent a self-drive boat for a unique perspective, or simply relax at a lakeside cafe.,
Varenna is very walkable, but be prepared for many steps and steep inclines as you explore its charming, vertical layout.
Don't miss the 'Lovers' Walk', Villa Monastero, Castello di Vezio, and the picturesque waterfront.,
Varenna can get crowded, especially during peak season and midday. Visiting early morning or late afternoon helps avoid the biggest crowds.,
Public restrooms are available, typically near the ferry terminal and in the main piazza. Some cafes may also offer facilities for patrons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Varenna offers charming trattorias and cafes. Bistrot Antichi Sapori is recommended for good value. Enjoy lakeside dining for beautiful views.,
Yes, look for smaller trattorias or cafes away from the main tourist drag. Bistrot Antichi Sapori is mentioned as a good option.
Try local lake fish dishes, risotto, polenta, and regional cheeses. Gelato is also a must-have!
Absolutely! Many restaurants offer beautiful lakeside seating, perfect for a romantic evening, especially at sunset.
While traditional Italian cuisine features meat and fish, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests. Vegan options might require specific inquiry.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Milan
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Varenna's Charm
Beyond the lakeside promenade, Varenna's charm lies in its steep, narrow alleyways and staircases that lead to hidden courtyards and breathtaking viewpoints. Villa Monastero, with its exquisite botanical gardens stretching along the lake, is a must-visit., For panoramic vistas and a touch of history, a hike up to Castello di Vezio is highly recommended, offering commanding views of the lake and surrounding mountains, often accompanied by falconry displays.
Navigating Lake Como: Varenna as a Hub
Many travelers recommend a specific route: taking the train from Milan to Varenna, then using ferries to explore other towns before returning to Milan from Como. This approach minimizes the need for multiple train journeys and maximizes scenic ferry travel. Renting a self-drive boat from Varenna also offers a unique way to experience the lake at your own pace, allowing for spontaneous stops for swimming or picnics.
The Magic of Varenna's Gardens and Villas
For those seeking historical intrigue and panoramic views, Castello di Vezio is a medieval castle perched above Varenna. While the castle itself offers a glimpse into history, the real draw for many are the breathtaking views over Lake Como and the surrounding Alps. The castle also hosts impressive falconry demonstrations, adding an element of excitement to the visit.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit