Varenna - A Tranquil Escape on the shores of Lake Como

Varenna is a village on the eastern shore of Lake Como that offers charm and tranquility. Its beautiful views, historic villas, and calm ambiance make it perfect for travelers seeking a quiet getaway from city life.

As one of the most popular tourist destinations along the shores of Lake Como, Varenna stands out as a great place for a quiet vacation where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Beyond enjoying the views of the lake and mountains, the village has a great collection of things to do and places to visit, as listed below:

Famous Villas

Villa Monastero

One of Varenna's most popular places with tourists is Villa Monastero. It is a villa turned museum with beautiful gardens. Originally a convent in the 12th century, it was converted into a house in the 17th century. Today, visitors can explore its beautiful rooms and large gardens.

Inside the villa, you'll find period furniture, wall paintings, and artworks, offering a look at the lifestyle of its former owners. The gardens along the lake's edge feature beautiful plants, statues, and fountains, creating a calming environment for strolls.

Villa Cipressi

Next to Villa Monastero, Villa Cipressi is a villa that has been converted into a luxury hotel. The 16th-century building and gardens have been restored to maintain their charm while offering modern amenities.

Guests can enjoy nicely decorated rooms with views of Lake Como, dine at the on-site restaurant, and relax in the terraced gardens by the lake. The villa also hosts weddings and private events, making it an ideal location for special occasions.

Exploring Castello di Vezio

Castello di Vezio (The Castle of Vezio) is a medieval fortress with a history spanning over a thousand years. Initially constructed as a strategic watchtower, the castle played a vital role in the region's defense during the Middle Ages. Today, it is a well-preserved relic of the past, featuring ancient stone walls, dungeons, and unique life-sized plaster statues ('the ghosts') scattered throughout its grounds.

The castle's elevated position offers panoramic views of Lake Como, making it a popular destination for photographers, history buffs, and those seeking to explore the area's rich history.

In addition to its historical charm, the castle is home to a falconry center, where visitors can enjoy live birds of prey displays. The castle grounds, with plenty of olive trees and scenic walking paths, provide a calm retreat from the more crowded tourist spots around Lake Como.

Getting to the castle requires walking up a steep hill, so be prepared. People traveling with pets should also note that pets are not allowed at the castle because of the presence of the birds of prey.

Discovering the 'Milk River'

The Fiumelatte River is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique natural spectacle. Known as one of the shortest rivers in Italy, measuring just 250 meters (820 feet) in length, the Fiumelatte is famous for its milky-white waters, which give the river its name—'Fiumelatte,' meaning 'Milk River' in Italian.

The Fiumelatte looks better during its seasonal flow, typically between March and October. The appearance is caused by the river's fast flow and the high limestone content in the water. This creates a white look as it rushes down from its underground source in the Grigna mountains.

Visiting the Fiumelatte River is a delightful experience, especially for those who enjoy hiking and exploring the lesser-known places around Lake Como. You can get to the river via a short trail from Varenna.

A Stroll down La Passeggiata degli Innamorati

La Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lovers' Walk) is a beautiful path that offers one of the most romantic strolls along the shores of Lake Como. This delightful promenade stretches along the water's edge, starting from the village center and winding past colorful houses, lush gardens, and charming cafes.

With its views of the lake and surrounding mountains, the path is ideal for visitors seeking a walk in a beautiful setting. The path has bright flowers and wrought-iron railings, creating a perfect atmosphere for a romantic outing.

As you walk along Passeggiata degli Innamorati, you'll be treated to views of Lake Como's crystal-clear waters and the distant peaks of the Alps. The gentle sound of the lake's waves lapping against the shore adds to the charm.

Fine Dining

Varenna boasts a variety of fine dining options that highlight the best of Italian food. Ristorante Vecchia Varenna offers a fine dining experience with a menu focusing on fresh, local ingredients.

Located on Riva Dei Marmisti, one of the most photographed places in Lago di Como, the restaurant boasts of being the best place for food tourism in Varenna. It challenges guests to explore their one-of-a-kind cooking style.

Offering a delightful menu and al fresco dining for the ages, Ristorante La Vista is worth considering. While it has a rich menu with Italian favorites and an impressive wine list, its outdoor dining is its claim to fame. It looks like a floating restaurant that's almost surrounded by the lake.

Exclusive Experiences

Travelers can indulge in a range of exclusive experiences in Varenna. Private boat tours of Lake Como are popular, allowing guests to explore the lake's villas and landscapes at their own pace. Custom Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi tours can also be arranged, offering deeper insights into their history.

Where to Stay

Varenna offers a range of accommodations that cater to the discerning traveler. Villa Cipressi provides a delightful stay with its historic charm and modern comforts. Another top choice is the Hotel Royal Victoria, a four-star hotel located in the heart of Varenna.

If you're not planning to be in Varenna for more than a day, you can stay at one of Milan's top hotels. A day trip to Varenna can be easily arranged.

Getting to Varenna

Varenna is easy to reach from major cities in Italy and beyond. The nearest major airport is Milan Malpensa Airport, about 90 kilometers away. Visitors can take a train from the airport via Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino station, which is just a short walk from the village center.

However, private transfers and car rentals are available for a faster, more comfortable and direct journey.

For those already in the Lake Como area, Varenna can be reached by ferry from nearby towns. These include Bellagio, Menaggio, and Como, offering a scenic way to arrive at the village.