If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Lake Como Italy, then Varenna should immediately jump to the top of your list! In our opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful towns in all of the Italian lake district. We recently visited this famous destination and were blown away by the colors, history, and epic viewpoints. Here’s the best things to do in Varenna, fun tips, and all about our experience on Lake Como.
How to Get to Varenna Italy
Depending on where you are coming from, there are plenty of options to get there. Driving yourself and taking the bus are obvious transportation methods. However, the best way to get to Varenna Como is definitely using the ferry!
There are boat services from many nearby towns to this area of the lake. Not only is it relatively affordable (considering the area), but you’ll get the best views of Varenna cruising in and out of the port.
If you’re planning to take the Lake Como ferry to multiple towns, you may want to consider the all day pass. The price was 15 Euros at the time of our visit. Yet, know it will be a bit more if you’re starting all the way in Como town.
As we mentioned, there is bus services linking the town of Como and other villages to Varenna. There’s also a large parking garage located here if you’re driving in as well. Keep in mind that the roads can be crazy if you’re not used to driving in this region of Italy.
You could even check out group day tours like this one if you’re coming from a big city like Milan Italy.
Where to Stay in Varenna
If you can, we highly recommend spending a night or two in Varenna. One of the biggest reasons for this that the crowds descend on the town in the afternoon.
This means that you’ll be able to to enjoy the morning and sunset before the day trippers arrive and take over the streets! This can make such a difference in your experience, especially during the busy summer months of July and August.
Luckily, even though Varenna is relativity small it does have a range of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and even villas to stay in. Here’s a few of the most highly-rated spots below:
Casa Du Lac, by R Collection Hotels – This is one of the most beautiful and high-end hotels in town. It’s located right on the water in the maze of walking streets.
Villa Central Varenna – Unqiue Villa that gives a more old Italian feel. It’s also, a great location right in town.
Fiò & Giò – This is actually one of the more basic and affordable accommodations in Varenna if you are visiting on a budget.
Our Day Trip to Varenna Lake Como
We started our journey from our month-long apartment in the small village of Albogasio-Oria on Lake Lugano. Leaving bright and early, we made the 30 minute drive to Menaggio on Lake Como to catch one of the first ferries out.
We had visited Bellagio using the same boat the week prior, so we were a little prepped beforehand. This is when we figured out that the Lake Como ferry is so much easier than driving the steep and narrow roads of northern Italy.
There were only a few other passengers with us aboard the 8:40am ferry. It was so important for us to arrive early visiting in late August. Honestly, it paid off because first hour we practically had Varenna to ourselves!
Be warned that with every half hour that passed and boat that pulled in, the streets seemed to get more crowded. After wandering the colorful alleyways and taking some photos, we headed up a long steps into the upper part of town for breakfast.
Around 10am we decided to make the hike up to the Vezio Castle. From there, we would head back down to the gardens, and take a dip at the beach. As you’ll see next, there’s so many amazing things to do in Varenna! Also, know that everything on our list is totally doable in one day.
Best Things to do in Varenna Italy
1. Take the Lover’s Walk into Town
Another advantage of taking the boat is the incredible views you’ll get of old town as you’re pulling in. As soon as you exit the ferry, head to the right along the water into the main part of the village. This stretch is called the “Lover’s walk” for its romantic views of Varenna and Lake Como.
There is a walkway that is built into the cliff side to lead you into town. For an epic photo, take your first right onto the dock facing the buildings.
2. Wander the Streets of Varenna Como
The Lover’s Walk gets very busy in the afternoon. Don’t worry though! You’ll find plenty of alleyways and crevices to explore further up into town.
We couldn’t believe the colors of the flowers and buildings along the shores of Lake Como. After you’ve walked along the water area, take any of the long staircases to your left to get to the upper town.
Although it looks small, it seemed like there were endless beautiful streets to discover. The blend of Renaissance and Neoclassical architecture will truly blow your mind. Simply strolling around old town is one of the best things to do in Varenna!
3. Grab Breakfast at Lake Bakery
Once you’ve made your way up the stairs, we have the perfect breakfast recommendation! The Lake Bakery has everything from sweet treats to pizza, and ice cold drinks.
The one thing they don’t have is coffee, but you can grab one next door and sit outside in between the buildings to enjoy both. It’s actually cheaper to sit at the cafe and enjoy your drink than to take a coffee to go.
We tried the goat cheese and spinach pizza and a pistachio stuffed croissant. It gave us the boost we needed for the hike that was to come later!
4. Explore Villa Monastereo
One of the most popular things to do in Varenna is to visit the Villa Monastereo. It was originally built as a nuns covent way back in the 12th century.
The Mornico family converted it into a villa in mid-1500’s, but it wouldn’t be until the late 19th century when it would get a true makeover! A German business man named Walter Kees created the beautiful gardens and much of the design you see now.
Today, is it an extravagant museum which showcases the changes over the last few hundred years. Be sure to save some time to walk through the botanical gardens that are home to over 900 exotic plants. You’ll also want to visit Villa Cipressi nearby if you have time!
5. Hike to the Vezio Castle
Now comes the real fun! Sitting high above Varenna Italy is the incredible Vezio Castle. Just know you’re in for quite the hike to visit it. you want to visit it.
There are two ways you can go from town. The most popular is to the left from the upper town, which takes you on a steep path through the forest 20-25 minutes straight up. For an easier (but longer) route you can go to the right and walk the road.
We decided to take the faster way and it was definitely a challenge. It’s essential to wear sturdy shoes on this climb and not sandals. When you get to the actually castle, there is a nice cafe for food and drinks.
This is also where you buy your tickets to go inside. The fortress was built in the 11th century, but there have been humans living in this area for thousands of years.
6. Have a Drink or Lunch Overlooking the Water
We planned our castle hike after breakfast before heading back into town. Once you get into the main pedestrian zone there are several cafes and bars. This area is stunning and has several cafes with Lake Como views.
Bar Il Molo is one of the most popular with tables set right next to the water. However, it doesn’t have the best reviews, so we would stick to drinks and save your appetite here.
Some other options are ALMA or Varenna Caffè Bistrot. However, for a really good meal, you should head away from the lake where it’s not as tourist driven. We highly recommend Riva for a gelato as well!
7. Hop on a Lake Como Boat Ride
If you didn’t take the ferry over, there are some great ways to get out on the water from Varenna. You can hire a private boat for an hour or half day that will take you along the shores of Como.
This is such a fun idea, especially if you’re traveling in a big group to split costs. Many even include drinks and snacks on the ride!
8. Swim at Spiaggia Beach
It would be a huge mistake not to bring your swimsuit to Varenna Como! While you won’t find many traditional “beaches,” there are multiple swim spots to check out all around town.
Our favorite by far was Spiaggia. The small cove is an awesome place to bring a takeaway pizza or drinks on the water.
There is also the Olivedo Lido Beach Club on the other side of the ferry port. Here you’ll find a restaurant and a bar, plus a pebbly area to lay out.
Have any questions on this article or want to share more of the best things to do in Varenna Italy? Leave us a comment below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
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We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
