Varenna

Latest page update: 30 January 2025
By: Dion Protani
​A charming village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Varenna is known for its romantic atmosphere and stunning views.

​Key attractions include the picturesque waterfront promenade, the historic Villa Monastero with its beautiful gardens, and the ancient Castello di Vezio, offering panoramic views of the lake.

​Visitors can explore the narrow, cobbled streets with colourful buildings and local shops. Varenna is easily accessible by ferry from nearby towns like Bellagio and Como or by train from Milan.
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Varenna: where lovers walk and beauty blossoms
​Varenna, a picturesque town on the eastern shore of Lake Como, is celebrated for its enchanting atmosphere and stunning views. Founded in Roman times, Varenna features a charming historic centre with narrow, winding streets and colorful houses that cascade down to the lake. The town is known for its beautiful gardens, particularly at Villa Monastero, which boasts exquisite botanical displays and offers guided tours of its historic villa.

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the scenic lakeside promenade or explore the medieval Castello di Vezio, which overlooks the town and provides breathtaking vistas of the lake and mountains. Varenna also offers a variety of dining options, showcasing local cuisine and fresh fish from the lake.

Getting to Varenna is convenient, with ferry services connecting it to nearby towns such as Bellagio and Menaggio. Additionally, it is easily accessible by train from Milan, making it an ideal destination for exploring the beauty of Lake Como.
Comune di Varenna
Province: Lecco

Region: Lombardy

Population: 681​ (in 2024 - source)

​​Size: 11 km²

Elevation: 220 metres

Highlights: Villa Monastero, Castello di Vezio, lakeside promenade

​Travel facilities: ferries, trains and buses

​Close by: Lecco, Colico, Mandello del Lario
What are the top-rated hotels in Varenna?
  • Hotel Royal Victoria: A historic 19th-century hotel offering panoramic lake views, lush gardens, a swimming pool, two restaurants, and a wellness center with a sauna and steam bath. 
  • Hotel Villa Cipressi: Comprising historic buildings and botanical gardens, this hotel provides spacious rooms with classic décor, some overlooking Lake Como, and a gourmet restaurant. 
  • Hotel Du Lac Varenna: A charming lakeside hotel with 16 comfortable air-conditioned bedrooms, some featuring lake views and private balconies, and a peaceful terrace overlooking the lake with a shaded dining area. 
  • Albergo Milano: An elegant hotel in the heart of Varenna, offering contemporary rooms with lake views, an expansive terrace with breathtaking vistas of Lake Como, and a charming restaurant. 
  • Hotel Olivedo: A historic 19th-century townhouse hotel located across from the water, featuring rooms with private balconies, an authentic restaurant, and a terrace with panoramic lake views. 
What's the best way to reach Varenna?
​Varenna, located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, is easily accessible by train, road, and ferry.  

The nearest airports are Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY). From Milano Centrale, regional trains run directly to Varenna-Esino station in about 1 hour, making rail the most convenient option.  

By road, Varenna is accessible via SS36, exiting at Bellano and continuing along the lakeside road. Driving from Milan takes around 1.5 hours, while from Lecco, it’s 30 minutes. Parking in Varenna is limited.  

Frequent ferries connect Varenna to Bellagio (15 minutes) and Menaggio (15 minutes), making it a key transit hub for lake crossings.  

Buses connect Varenna to nearby towns, but services are infrequent. A combination of train and ferry is the most efficient way to reach Varenna, offering scenic views and easy transfers to other Lake Como destinations.

Varenna  Gallery

Where are the best places to eat in Varenna?
  • Il Cavatappi: Nestled in a narrow lane in Varenna's center, Il Cavatappi offers a cozy atmosphere with a menu featuring traditional Italian dishes, including fresh pasta and seafood. Its intimate setting and attentive service make it a favorite among visitors. 
  • Al Prato: Situated near a charming piazza, Al Prato is renowned for its beautifully presented dishes that blend local ingredients with modern culinary techniques. The elegant ambiance complements its carefully curated wine selection. 
  • Ristorante La Vista: Part of Albergo Milano, this restaurant lives up to its name with stunning lake views from its terrace. Guests can enjoy a romantic dining experience featuring a menu that highlights regional specialties and fresh, seasonal ingredients. 
  • Vecchia Varenna: Located along the waterfront, Vecchia Varenna provides a picturesque dining setting. The menu focuses on traditional Italian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh lake fish and homemade pasta, offering an authentic taste of the region. 
  • La Veranda dei Pescatori: Set in a serene location, this restaurant offers a tranquil dining experience with a menu that features a variety of seafood dishes. Its peaceful atmosphere and attentive service make it a delightful choice for those seeking a relaxed meal.

    Private  Transfer  Request

    WE OFFER PRIVATE TRANSFERS TO EVERY DESTINATION AROUND LAKE COMO AND ACROSS THE WHOLE OF ITALY!
    To request the price and availability of any transfer route around Lake Como or elsewhere in Italy please use the form below or contact us via the [email protected] mailbox. Make sure you've included details such as the name of the hotel, name of the town/city or which airport/train station where relevant. Our English booking team will get back to you ASAP to assist with your enquiry.

    To organise a private transfer or ask advice about visiting Lake Como you can either use the form below or contact us directly via [email protected]