Tucked on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Varenna is a picturesque gem that embodies Italian charm. Colorful buildings cascade down the hillside to the waterfront, blending 11th-century character with modern comforts and iconic views.
This is everything you need to know to plan your next trip on the shores of one of Italy’s most famous lakes!
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The Best Time to Visit Varenna, Lake Como
The most popular time to visit the Lake Como area is summer, when the weather is generally beautiful and most people are on summer vacation. The peak season is June to early September, and the low season is around October to March.
While there are crowds most days in summer, it’s significantly busier from Thursday to Sunday. So, plan to do the most popular activities from Monday to Wednesday.
Locals say the best time to visit is from April to early May. The weather isn’t as hot, although it rains an average of 10-12 days. It’s less crowded than in summer, so you can wander the streets, explore the gorgeous villas, and ride the ferries without fighting the crowds. Just bring your best raincoat and umbrella for those rainy days!
Varenna Weather
The weather on Lake Como varies seasonally but is fairly mild most of the year.
- Spring (March-May): mild temperatures between 50-62°F (10-17°C).
- Summer (June-August): warm, around 77-86°F (25-30°C).
- Autumn (September-November): cools to 47°F to 65°F (8°C to 18°C).
- Winter (December-February): averages 39°F to 46°F (4°C to 8°C).
Varenna and the Lake Como area is at its sunniest during summer, with more rainfall in spring and autumn. However, it’s still beautiful even when it rains, and the showers tend to come and go throughout the day.
How to Get to Varenna
The best way to get there is to fly into Milan and then take about a one-hour train to Varenna from Milan. You can depart from any Milan train station, but there might be more options leaving from Milano Centrale. You’ll arrive at the main Varenna train station called Varenna-Esino. Search both Trenitalia and Italo Treno to find the best route, times, and prices for you.
It’s about a 10-minute scenic walk downhill to get to the ferry port, followed by a 10 to 15-minute walk along the waterfront to the heart of Varenna. I recommend bringing a suitcase you know you can carry down stairs or roll over cobblestones to make this walk easier.
How to Fight Off Jetlag
Unless you’re flying to Italy from somewhere else in Europe, you’re likely going to be dealing with a significant time difference when you land. If you struggle with jetlag, I’ve got some great tips for you:
- Slowly adjust your sleep schedule leading up to your trip. This sunrise simulator alarm clock can help you get up more easily when it’s darker in the mornings.
- Take a nap on the plane if you’ll be arriving earlier in the day (this memory foam neck pillow, sleep mask, and ear plugs are great for this). If you’re arriving later in the day, try to stay awake for at least the second half of the flight.
- Pack little snacks to munch on between meals to keep your energy up (and the hanger away!). You can also buy tasty snacks at the local stores or markets while you’re there. These reusable bags are great to use for travel and on-the-go!
How to Get Around Varenna & Lake Como
Varenna is extremely walkable as it’s a relatively small town. It is situated on the hillside, though, so there are a lot of stairs and hills. The steps aren’t particularly steep or narrow, but they can be uneven and bumpy. Make sure you wear comfy sneakers or sandals that are easy to walk in!
As for getting around Lake Como in general, there are a lot of options:
- Ferries: The most popular and scenic way to get around is by ferry. Regular services connect towns up and down the lake, offering slow and fast options at an affordable price.
- Water Taxis: For more flexibility and privacy, water taxis and private boats offer direct routes between destinations, but they are much pricier.
- Buses: A bus network serves the lake area and can be an affordable option for shorter trips, but you’d have to go all the way around if you want to cross the lake.
- Car Rentals: You can rent a car if you prefer to drive, but the roads can be narrow, and parking is limited. You’re also restricted to the “traghetto” ferries that allow cars, so you’ll have fewer options.
- Bicycles: You can find places for bike rentals, and some areas have dedicated cycling paths for a leisurely way to explore.
How to Navigate the Ferries
The Lake Como ferries and timetables can be tricky to understand at first. If you don’t plan properly, they could throw off your entire day, and you might not have time for some of the things on your itinerary. But once you figure it out, you’ll be riding them like a local!
Check out my other post on Lake Como for more info on navigating the ferries.
Where to Stay in Varenna
Varenna is one of the most popular towns in Lake Como. If you’re staying during peak season, it’s best to book your accommodations well in advance. Keep in mind it will be more expensive then, too.
Hotels in Varenna
Varenna has a range of traditional hotel options, from charming boutique hotels nestled in the heart of the village to luxurious lakeside resorts. Many hotels in Varenna boast stunning views of Lake Como and include on-site restaurants, terraces, and easy access to local attractions.
Popular hotels in Varenna include Hotel Royal Victoria, with a prime location and panoramic views, and Hotel Villa Cipressi, which combines historical charm with modern comforts.
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Other Accommodation Options
If you prefer vacation rentals, VRBO has plenty of options in Varenna. Stay in a cozy apartment in the center of town or a spacious villa with a private garden and lake views. You’ll have more space and privacy, and it’s often more affordable for longer stays or group travel.
TrustedHousesitters is a unique way to stay in local homes and immerse yourself in the local experience. It connects homeowners with travelers willing to care for their homes and pets in exchange for much more affordable accommodations than a hotel. Use my special discount code, ABUNDANT25, for 25% off new annual memberships!
Most rental homes also have kitchens, so you can prepare your own meals using fresh, local ingredients from Varenna’s markets. If you want to “live like a local” while in Varenna, this is the way!
Things to Do in Varenna, Lake Como
For such a small town, there’s so many things to do in Varenna! From exploring gorgeous villas and a historical castle to enjoying delicious food and shopping for local goods. You could spend several days here, soaking up the Italian culture and lifestyle.
Walk the “Lovers Walk”
The Passeggiata degli Innamorati, or Lovers’ Walk, is a romantic lakeside promenade that serves as the perfect introduction to Varenna’s charms. This enchanting path connects the ferry port to the village’s historic center, offering breathtaking views of Lake Como at every turn.
As you wander along this picturesque route, you’ll even find a spot for the perfect lover’s photo in front of a heart with Lake Como in the background.
Explore the Villas
Villa Monastero is a classic example of Varenna’s rich history and natural beauty. This must-visit site has a stunning botanical garden with a diverse array of plant species set against the backdrop of the shimmering lake. If you don’t want to pay to enter, you can walk up and around the back of the villa for a panoramic view of the lake.
There’s also Villa Cipressi, now an elegant hotel, where you can wander through its meticulously manicured terraced gardens. Open to the public, these gardens offer some of the most panoramic views of Lake Como, providing a perfect setting for reflection, relaxation, and romance.
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Visit Castello di Vezio
Perched majestically on a hill above Varenna, Castello di Vezio has unparalleled views of Lake Como and the surrounding Alps. This partially restored 13th-century castle is more than just a viewpoint; it’s a journey through time.
With its historical exhibitions, thrilling falconry displays, and occasional medieval reenactments, get a vivid glimpse into the area’s rich and colorful past at Castello di Vezio.
Go On a Food Tour
I always recommend that you go on a food tour your first day in a new destination. This is a great way to get a feel for the town and figure out what you want to spend the rest of your time doing. If you have a local guide, you can ask them for recommendations on things to do and other places to eat.
This food tour takes you sightseeing through Varenna as well as food and wine tasting. Enjoy artisan cheeses, cold cuts, and local wines, with commentary from your local guide. Or, go on this food tour and meet local farmers as you hike among chestnut woods and olive trees.
Take a Boat Ride on the Lake
No visit to Varenna, Lake Como is truly complete without experiencing the magic from the water. Regular ferry services provide a convenient and scenic way to explore the lake’s many sites as you travel from town to town.
But for a more unique and intimate experience, consider hiring a private boat for a bespoke tour of the lake’s most beautiful villas and hidden coves. You can learn a lot from your local guide that you wouldn’t be able to from simply using public transportation.
Visit Nearby Towns
Varenna’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the many other gems of Lake Como:
- Bellagio: Often referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is renowned for its luxurious hotels, high-end boutiques, and stunning gardens.
- Menaggio: This charming town boasts a beautiful lakefront promenade perfect for evening strolls and people-watching.
- Bellano: Home to the awe-inspiring Orrido di Bellano gorge, a natural wonder carved by glacial waters.
- Tremezzo: Visit the magnificent Villa Carlotta, where art and nature intertwine in its museum and botanical gardens.
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Go Shopping
Varenna is a great place to get Italian-made wool, cashmere, and lavender skincare products. These locally produced textiles, known for their exceptional softness and quality, reflect the skilled artisanship that has been passed down through generations.
Wander in and out of the shops on the lakefront in between meals or while waiting for your guided tour to start.
Where to Eat in Varenna, Lake Como
There are several options for eating along the waterfront with a great view of the lake. However, these are more touristy and crowded. I recommend grabbing a drink at one of these and then going off the main port area for your meal. The best restaurants in Varenna are going to be off the beaten path.
I ate lunch at Osteria Quattro Pass, and it was incredible! I had delicious red wine, vegetarian ravioli with green, red, and white sauce, and limoncello sponge cake with lemon crema for dessert. It’s located halfway up the hill, so you can see beautiful lake views when you look down the side streets in this area.
If you want to eat good food while admiring a panoramic view of Varenna and Lake Como, head to Ristorante Visteria, located in the Hotel Royal Victoria.
More Tips for Visiting Varenna
Learn Some Italian Phrases Before You Go
Before your trip, try to learn some Italian to help you order food, ask for directions, and buy things in the shops run by locals who don’t speak a lot of English. In general, it’s considered good etiquette to make an effort at the local language, no matter where you travel.
Babbel and Rosetta Stone are great resources for this; you can start as a beginner or take more advanced lessons if you already speak some Italian.
Currency & Cash
As part of the Eurozone, Italy uses the Euro as its currency. While credit cards are widely accepted in most places, carry some cash for small purchases, tipping, and visits to local markets or smaller shops. When given the option, always choose to pay in Euros to avoid unfavorable exchange rates often applied to foreign currency transactions.
Check with your credit card company before you go to see what kind of foreign transaction fees they charge. And be sure to let them know when and where you’ll be, so your card isn’t declined for making a foreign purchase.
Planning a Lake Como Trip?
Enchanted by Lake Como? While Varenna is a jewel, there’s so much more to explore! My detailed 1-week itinerary has the best of Lake Como to help you plan an unforgettable trip!
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Andiamo a Varenna (Let’s go to Varenna)!
Whether you find yourself wandering along its romantic walkways, learning the stories of historic villas, or simply savoring a gelato by the lake’s edge, Varenna is an unforgettable Italian adventure.
The village’s true charm is not just in its picturesque beauty, but in the way it invites you to slow down and fully appreciate the good life on Lake Como.
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