Varenna Lake Como
Varenna, a jewel on Lake Como, enchants with its colorful houses, steep alleys, and stunning lakeside villas and gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, blooming gardens
Varenna Lake Como
Best Time
Fewer crowds, blooming gardens
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Varenna, a jewel on Lake Como, enchants with its colorful houses, steep alleys, and stunning lakeside villas and gardens.
"Varenna is a slow-paced destination most visitors come here to relax by the lake."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Varenna is hilly with cobblestones. Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring!
🚢 Book Ferry Tickets Early
Ferry lines can be long, especially in peak season. Book in advance to avoid long waits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Villa Monastero
Varenna
Explore stunning botanical gardens and a historic villa with breathtaking lake views. A true Italian gem.
Castello di Vezio
Varenna
Climb to this medieval castle for panoramic views of Lake Como and its surrounding mountains.
Varenna's Lakeside Promenade
Varenna
Stroll along the colorful waterfront, enjoying gelato and the serene atmosphere of this charming village.
Heaven's Gate at Villa Cipressi
Varenna
Discover this iconic viewpoint within Villa Cipressi, perfectly framing Lake Como's beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Ferry Life
Varenna's Hills and Cobblestones
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Varenna is hilly with cobblestones. Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring!
🚢 Book Ferry Tickets Early
Ferry lines can be long, especially in peak season. Book in advance to avoid long waits.
💰 Villa Entrance Fees
Factor in entrance fees for Villa Monastero and Castello di Vezio when budgeting. +1
📸 Find the 'View Point'
Search 'View Point Varenna' on Google Maps for a stunning photo spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Varenna is hilly with cobblestones. Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring!
🚢 Book Ferry Tickets Early
Ferry lines can be long, especially in peak season. Book in advance to avoid long waits.
💰 Villa Entrance Fees
Factor in entrance fees for Villa Monastero and Castello di Vezio when budgeting. +1
📸 Find the 'View Point'
Search 'View Point Varenna' on Google Maps for a stunning photo spot.
🚆 Train from Milan
The direct train from Milan Central to Varenna-Esino is a convenient and affordable option.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Varenna is widely praised for its breathtaking beauty, charming atmosphere, and stunning villas. Visitors love the picturesque lakeside promenade and the opportunity to explore historic gardens. Some find the ferry system can be chaotic and time-consuming during peak season, and the hilly terrain requires good walking shoes.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by train from Milan Central Station to Varenna-Esino. The journey takes about an hour and is very affordable. +1
While Varenna has limited parking, it's best accessed by train or ferry to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
Yes, Varenna is a major ferry hub on Lake Como, connecting to Bellagio, Menaggio, and other towns. +1
The ferry is the most popular and scenic way. Be prepared for long queues and potential sell-outs during peak times.
Absolutely! Varenna's central location and excellent ferry connections make it an ideal base for day trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance to the gardens of Villa Monastero is typically around 6 euros, with combined garden and museum access costing about 9 euros.
Tickets for Castello di Vezio can be purchased upon arrival, and they cost around 5 euros.
Yes, strolling through Varenna's charming streets, enjoying the lakeside promenade, and exploring the town are all free activities. +1
Fast ferry tickets can generally only be booked in person at the ferry terminal.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official websites for Villa Monastero and Castello di Vezio for the most up-to-date information.
📸 📸 Photography
Don't miss the lakeside promenade for colorful village shots, Villa Monastero's gardens, Castello di Vezio for panoramic views, and the 'Heaven's Gate' at Villa Cipressi. +3
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, perfect for capturing the village's charm.
Drone regulations can be strict in Italy. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits 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.
Explore the narrow alleyways and staircases for charming, less-obvious shots. The 'View Point Varenna' on Google Maps is also a must-find.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Many visitors enjoy dining with lake views. Hotel Royal Victoria offers a beautiful restaurant setting. Consider exploring local trattorias for authentic Italian cuisine.
Yes, some private boat tours offer the option to stop for lunch at lakeside restaurants, allowing you to savor local dishes.
Look for fresh lake fish, risotto, polenta, and regional pasta dishes. Enjoying gelato while strolling is also a must!
Most Italian restaurants offer vegetarian options like pasta with vegetables or cheese. Vegan options might require specific requests.
Prices can vary, but expect mid-range to higher prices for lakefront dining. Casual trattorias offer more budget-friendly options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
+1 Capture the colorful houses along the promenade, the manicured gardens of Villa Monastero, and the dramatic views from Castello di Vezio. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Lake Como: Ferries and Trains
Once in Varenna, the ferry system is your gateway to exploring other iconic towns like Bellagio and Menaggio.
Travelers often recommend a route that utilizes both train and ferry: take the train from Milan to Varenna, then use the ferry to hop between towns like Bellagio and Como, before taking a train back to Milan from Como.
Exploring Varenna's Enchanting Villas
Nearby, Villa Cipressi is renowned for its 'Heaven's Gate,' a picturesque viewpoint that perfectly frames the shimmering waters of Lake Como.
The Charm of Varenna Village
Walking through Varenna involves a lot of stairs and cobblestone paths, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit