Varenna Old Town and Riva Grande
Varenna's Old Town and Riva Grande offer postcard-perfect views of Lake Como, with colorful buildings, a charming promenade, and a romantic lakeside a...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Varenna Old Town and Riva Grande
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Varenna's Old Town and Riva Grande offer postcard-perfect views of Lake Como, with colorful buildings, a charming promenade, and a romantic lakeside atmosphere.
"Varenna mesmerizes with its serene lakeside charm, embodying the tranquil beauty of Italy's Lake Como."
Book Ferries Ahead! 🚢
Ferry lines can be hours long. Book tickets online or arrive super early, especially for popular routes like Varenna to Bellagio.
Train from Milan is Easy 🚆
Direct trains from Milan to Varenna are affordable and convenient. Consider booking via Omio for a smooth experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Riva Grande Promenade
Varenna Lakeside
Stroll along the picturesque lakefront, soak in stunning mountain views, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for photos!
Varenna Old Town Charm
Varenna
Wander through narrow, colorful streets, discover hidden alleys, and experience the authentic charm of this lakeside village.
Bar Il Molo Views
Riva Grande
Enjoy aperitivo or a meal with breathtaking lake views from this popular lakeside spot. Sunset drinks are a must!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Frenzy: Beat the Crowds
Milan to Varenna: Train Smart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ferries Ahead! 🚢
Ferry lines can be hours long. Book tickets online or arrive super early, especially for popular routes like Varenna to Bellagio.
Train from Milan is Easy 🚆
Direct trains from Milan to Varenna are affordable and convenient. Consider booking via Omio for a smooth experience. +1
Capture the Iconic Views 📷
Riva Grande offers the most 'Instagrammable' spots. Don't miss the colorful buildings against the lake backdrop.
Enjoy Lakeside Dining 🍴
Bar Il Molo is a top pick for sunset drinks and meals with stunning lake vistas. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ferries Ahead! 🚢
Ferry lines can be hours long. Book tickets online or arrive super early, especially for popular routes like Varenna to Bellagio.
Train from Milan is Easy 🚆
Direct trains from Milan to Varenna are affordable and convenient. Consider booking via Omio for a smooth experience. +1
Capture the Iconic Views 📷
Riva Grande offers the most 'Instagrammable' spots. Don't miss the colorful buildings against the lake backdrop.
Enjoy Lakeside Dining 🍴
Bar Il Molo is a top pick for sunset drinks and meals with stunning lake vistas. +1
Wear Comfy Shoes 🥾
Varenna's charming old town has steep, cobblestone streets. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Varenna Old Town and Riva Grande are consistently praised for their breathtaking beauty and charming atmosphere, offering iconic Lake Como views. Visitors love the picturesque promenade and the authentic feel of the old town. However, some find the ferry queues to be extremely long and frustrating, especially during peak season.
"Scenic spot not to be missed in Varenna. It was quite crowded on the Sunday we were there."
Lixun Lin
"Walk there is a must to do in Varenna. So, do not miss the opportunity to visit there. The most Instagram pictures are taken from here. Recommended!"
Saiful Srabon
"Really interesting and very nice place with great wiew to lake. There is good restaurant on the place, including great wiew on the lake from rocks terrace. You can also rent a boat, but on my visit, there was so windy, that boats was out from water."
František Zimmermann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by train from Milan Centrale station. Trains are frequent and affordable, taking about an hour. You can purchase tickets at the station or via apps like Omio. +1
Yes, Varenna is an excellent base! It's well-connected by ferry to other popular towns like Bellagio and Menaggio, and its train station makes day trips easy. +1
Absolutely! Varenna is a popular day trip destination from Milan. You can easily reach it by train and explore its charming old town and lakeside promenade. +1
The ferry is the most scenic and direct way. However, be prepared for potentially long queues, especially during peak season. Booking tickets in advance or arriving very early is highly recommended.
Yes, boat rentals are often available, offering a fantastic way to see the lake. However, check conditions as windy weather can sometimes prevent rentals.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Varenna Old Town itself is free to explore. However, you will need tickets for attractions like Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi if you wish to visit them.
Ferry ticket prices vary depending on the route and distance. A trip from Varenna to Bellagio typically costs around €5-€10 per person. It's wise to check the official ferry schedules and prices.
Yes, you can buy ferry tickets at the ticket booths. However, queues can be extremely long, so booking online in advance or arriving well before your desired departure time is strongly advised.
Riva Grande, the lakeside promenade, is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. It's a wonderful spot to walk and enjoy the views freely.
Opening hours for attractions like Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi vary by season. It's best to check their official websites for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Riva Grande offers iconic shots with colorful buildings and the lake. Wander through the narrow streets of the old town for charming, picturesque scenes.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoons and evenings provide beautiful golden hour light and romantic ambiance.
Drone regulations can be strict in Italy, especially in populated areas and near historical sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone to avoid penalties.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views and charming streets. A prime lens can be useful for low-light situations in the evenings.
Yes, ferries offer unique perspectives of Varenna and the surrounding coastline. Be ready to shoot as you approach and depart from the docks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bar Il Molo on Riva Grande is highly recommended for its delicious food and stunning lake views, especially at sunset. +1
Enjoy fresh lake fish, risotto, and local pasta dishes. Don't forget to try gelato and indulge in an aperitivo with local wines and snacks.
While Varenna has some upscale options, you can find more affordable trattorias and pizzerias by venturing slightly off the main promenade. Grabbing a panino for lunch is also a good budget option.
Aperitivo is a pre-dinner drink accompanied by small snacks. Many bars in Varenna, like Bar Il Molo, offer a delightful aperitivo experience.
For popular restaurants, especially those with lake views or during peak season, reservations are highly recommended to secure a table.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many restaurants offer kid-friendly options, and the simple joy of gelato is always a hit. Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as exploring the charming, albeit hilly, streets is part of the adventure. Varenna provides a beautiful and relatively relaxed introduction to Lake Como for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
For dining, opt for picnics with supplies from local markets, grabbing a panino for lunch, or seeking out pizzerias away from the main tourist drag. While lakeside dining offers great views, it can be pricier. Consider enjoying a gelato or an aperitivo at a more casual spot.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Strolling hand-in-hand through the old town's narrow streets in the evening, when the crowds thin and the lights twinkle, is incredibly charming. Consider staying in a hotel with a balcony overlooking the lake for an extra special touch.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Lake Como Ferries: Tips from Travelers
To avoid this, booking ferry tickets online in advance is a game-changer. Apps like Omio can simplify this process. Alternatively, arriving at the ferry terminal very early before your desired departure time is crucial. Consider traveling during weekdays or off-peak hours if your schedule allows. Remember that ferry schedules can change seasonally, so always check the latest timetables before you go.
Despite the potential for queues, the ferry remains the most scenic and enjoyable way to experience Lake Como. The views from the water are unparalleled, offering a unique perspective of the charming villages and the majestic Alps. Embrace the journey, and you'll be rewarded with unforgettable vistas.
The Charm of Varenna's Old Town
As you meander, you'll discover charming local shops, artisan boutiques, and small cafes perfect for a coffee break or a gelato. The most 'Instagrammable' spots are often found here, where the vibrant hues of the buildings contrast beautifully with the azure waters of Lake Como. Don't be afraid to get a little lost; it's often in these quiet corners that you'll find the most picturesque scenes.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be uneven and the inclines can be steep. This is part of the town's character, but it's good to be prepared. The effort is well worth it for the unique beauty and atmosphere you'll discover.
Dining with a View: Lakeside Experiences
Beyond Bar Il Molo, many restaurants and cafes along the lakeside promenade offer opportunities to dine with a view. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch or a delightful aperitivo, the backdrop of the lake and surrounding mountains enhances the culinary experience. Trying local specialties like fresh lake fish and regional pasta dishes is highly recommended.
While dining with a view often comes with a slightly higher price tag, it's an experience that many visitors find well worth it. For those on a tighter budget, consider enjoying a gelato or a panino while sitting on a bench along the promenade, still soaking in the magnificent scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit