Church of San Giorgio Varenna
A 14th-century gem in Varenna's heart, featuring Romanesque-Gothic style, stunning frescoes, and local marble.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Church of San Giorgio Varenna
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 14th-century gem in Varenna's heart, featuring Romanesque-Gothic style, stunning frescoes, and local marble.
"A lovely village church with dazzling statues on main and side alters."
🎯 Central Square Charm
The church is in Piazza San Giorgio, the village's main square. Perfect for people-watching!
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfy shoes! Varenna's streets are charmingly cobblestoned. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Piazza San Giorgio
Varenna's town center
The vibrant heart of Varenna, home to the historic Church of San Giorgio and surrounded by charming alleys.
Church of San Giorgio Interior
Piazza San Giorgio
Admire 14th-century architecture, late 15th/16th-century paintings, and intricate local marble flooring.
Stations of the Cross Chapel
Across Via Venini, near Piazza San Giorgio
A smaller, poignant chapel featuring painted wooden placards depicting the scenes of the Stations of the Cross.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Varenna's Heart
+1Embrace the Varenna Vibe
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets and enjoy the relaxed pace of this Lake Como gem.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Central Square Charm
The church is in Piazza San Giorgio, the village's main square. Perfect for people-watching!
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfy shoes! Varenna's streets are charmingly cobblestoned. :athletic_shoe:
🖼️ Artistic Interiors
Step inside to see beautiful frescoes and local marble work. :art:
🚶♀️ Peaceful Exploration
It's an easy, peaceful stop while exploring Varenna's lakefront and alleys. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Central Square Charm
The church is in Piazza San Giorgio, the village's main square. Perfect for people-watching!
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfy shoes! Varenna's streets are charmingly cobblestoned. :athletic_shoe:
🖼️ Artistic Interiors
Step inside to see beautiful frescoes and local marble work. :art:
🚶♀️ Peaceful Exploration
It's an easy, peaceful stop while exploring Varenna's lakefront and alleys. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Church of San Giorgio to be a charming and peaceful stop in the heart of Varenna. Its historical significance, beautiful interior art, and central location in Piazza San Giorgio are frequently praised. While it's a smaller attraction, its presence adds to the overall picturesque and authentic feel of the village.
"Lovely village church with dazzling statues on main and side alters. Across Via Venini, on the corner of Piazza San Giorgio is a second, smaller chapel containing the stations of the cross scenes painted on wooden placards. Lovingly done last days of Gesù."
John Ventre
"📍 Chiesa di San Giorgio – Varenna, Lake Como, Italy 🇮🇹
A small 14th-century stone church ⛪ right in Varenna’s main square. We walked past it while exploring the village 🚶♂️ and admired its simple façade and calm setting. Inside are frescoes 🎨 and a quiet atmosphere 🙏, making it a peaceful stop if you step in. Easy to notice as you stroll between the cafés and shops nearby. 🌿"
Quing_刘妈妈
"I passed in front of this beautiful church in located in the center of Varenna - Como Lake, which is built on 13/14 century"
Dr. Hani Hossni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church of San Giorgio is located in the heart of Varenna, in Piazza San Giorgio. If you're arriving by train from Milan, Varenna-Esino station is a short walk to the village center and the church. From the ferry terminal, it's also a pleasant stroll through the picturesque streets.
Yes, Varenna is very accessible for a day trip from Milan by train, taking about an hour. It's considered one of the most popular and beautiful places to visit on Lake Como.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Church of San Giorgio itself is typically free, as it's a functioning church in the main square. However, donations are always appreciated.
As a place of worship, the church is generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check locally for any specific service times or unexpected closures, though it's usually accessible for visitors to admire its architecture and art.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautiful frescoes, dazzling statues on the main and side altars, and flooring made entirely of local marble. It's a 14th-century church with a peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, the church and its piazza are very photogenic. The architecture, interior art, and the surrounding charming square offer great photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours.
Piazza San Giorgio is the lively central square of Varenna, where the church is located. It's surrounded by small alleys and is a great spot to soak in the village atmosphere.
Yes, the Church of San Giovanni Battista is also located very close by, often mentioned in proximity to Hotel Villa Cipressi.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! Piazza San Giorgio and the surrounding streets are lined with cafes and restaurants where you can relax, enjoy a meal, and watch the boats and ferries.
📸 📸 Photography
The church facade against the backdrop of the piazza, the narrow cobblestone alleys leading away from it, and the views from the piazza looking towards the lake are all excellent photo opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun and capturing a beautiful, warm glow on the historic buildings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the peak heat and crowds. While the church itself is a quiet space, the piazza offers a more lively environment. Pack snacks and water, and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for navigating the cobblestone streets. A ferry ride on Lake Como can also be a fun addition to a family day out in Varenna.
🚶 Solo Travelers
You can easily spend hours wandering through the alleys, discovering hidden corners, and enjoying the stunning lake views at your own pace.Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals or other travelers. The atmosphere in Varenna is generally friendly and relaxed. Use the church as a central point to orient yourself, and then let your curiosity guide you through the charming streets and along the lakefront. Capture your own unique perspectives with plenty of photo opportunities.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Combine your visit to the church with a walk along the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Walk of Lovers) for breathtaking lake views. Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many lakeside restaurants surrounding the piazza, soaking in the magical ambiance of Varenna as the sun sets. Consider a stay at Hotel Villa Cipressi for an extra touch of romance.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Varenna's History
This piazza is often the starting point for exploring the charming, narrow streets that define the village's character.Inside, visitors can admire a collection of paintings from the late 15th and 16th centuries, showcasing the artistic heritage of the region. The flooring, made entirely of local marble, adds to the church's understated elegance and connection to its surroundings. Beyond the main church, a smaller chapel across Via Venini holds poignant painted wooden placards depicting the Stations of the Cross, offering a more intimate devotional experience.
Founded in 769, Varenna itself is rich in history, and the Church of San Giorgio stands as a testament to its enduring past. Its presence in the main square makes it an unmissable stop for anyone exploring this beautiful Lake Como village, offering a moment of reflection amidst the picturesque scenery.
Experiencing Varenna's Charm
The church, nestled in Piazza San Giorgio, is a focal point where locals and tourists alike gather.Beyond the church, Varenna offers a delightful array of attractions. A walk along the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Walk of Lovers) provides stunning lake views, while Riva Grande offers one of the most charming bays.
For those interested in history and nature, Villa Monastero and its lush botanical gardens are a must-visit, often explored in conjunction with the church.+3Travelers often recommend wearing comfortable shoes to fully enjoy exploring Varenna's winding streets and picturesque corners. The village's compact nature makes it ideal for a day trip, allowing ample time to visit the church, wander through the alleys, and enjoy the lakeside ambiance.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit