The complete travel guide — boat tours, hotels, things to do & more
Varenna is a picturesque village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, set along the Lecco branch and loved for its quiet, romantic atmosphere.
Varenna is famous for its colorful lakeside houses, elegant gardens at Villa Monastero, and the scenic Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Walk of Lovers) suspended over the water.
In this guide to Varenna, Italy, you’ll discover the best things to do and see, and practical tips to plan a smooth and memorable visit.
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To make the most of your time in Varenna, you can stroll through its romantic old town, visit historic villas and gardens, enjoy lake views by boat, and more 
A stone’s throw from Varenna ferry terminal is the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Walk of Lovers), a romantic lakeside path offering stunning views of the lake and the narrow cobbled streets of the town winding their way uphill.
The Passeggiata degli Innamorati leads to the beautiful Riva Grande, a bay where you will find cozy cafes, restaurants, craft shops, and ice cream parlors.
The heart of the village is Piazza San Giorgio, where the Church of San Giorgio stands. Built in the 14th century, the church features a fusion of Romanesque and Gothic styles and houses a collection of paintings from the late 15th and 16th centuries.
Inside the church, there is also an impressive floor made of traditional local black marble, testimony to the region’s heritage.
Built at the end of the 12th century as a convent, Villa Monastero is known for its botanical garden, which stretches for over 2 km along the lake and is home to an extraordinary variety of rare plants with incredible colors and scents.
The villa also houses the Casa Museo, a splendid museum that preserves four centuries of history in its 14 rooms, all finely furnished and decorated. In addition, Villa Monastero is also an important international conference center.
Opening season: March to November with occasional winter openings
Regular admission: €13 for the gardens only, 15€ for gardens + Casa Museo, €25 for the combined ticket giving access to the gardens of Villa Monastero + the gardens of Villa Cipressi
Reservation required: No
Address: Viale Giovanni Polvani 4, Varenna
Villa Cipressi is a luxurious 4-star hotel situated right next to Villa Monastero. Surrounded by centuries-old terraced gardens that stretch down to the shores of Lake Como, it’s an idyllic setting for romantic weddings and dream vacations.
The villa, dating back to the 12th century, takes its name from the majestic centuries-old cypress trees that adorn its lush gardens. Although the villa is used as an exclusive hotel, even those who are not staying at the property can explore its enchanting gardens.
Opening season: From the beginning of March to the end of October with occasional winter openings
Regular admission: €13 for the gardens, €25 for the combined ticket giving access to the gardens of Villa Monastero + the gardens of Villa Cipressi
Reservation required: Not mandatory, but recommended (buy ticket here)
Address: Via 4 Novembre 22, Varenna
The hamlet of Fiumelatte takes its name from its river (one of the shortest in Italy).
With its waters as white as milk, the Fiumelatte river only flows from March to September (except in cases of drought), drying up for the rest of the year.
A short 20-minute walk from the village will take you to the source of the river, where you can enjoy a splendid view of Lake Como and the Bellagio promontory.
There are also several picnic tables with a beautiful view of the lake just before the spring.
From the castle terrace, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and encounter the famous “ghosts”: white plaster sculptures created with the help of volunteers who pose for an hour. On Friday and Saturday evenings in summer, you can enjoy an evening aperitif on the panoramic terrace for €45 per person.
Opening season: everyday from March to November, only on weekends and public holidays from December to February.
Regular admission: €7
Reservation required: Not mandatory, but recommended (buy ticket here)
Address: Via Castello, Perledo
Dating back over 1,000 years, the castle houses a permanent exhibition tracing the history of the area and the Lariosaur, a marine reptile from the Middle Triassic period that inspired local legends similar to those of the Loch Ness monster.
➡️ Discover the Vezio Castle with a short walk from Varenna
A short walk from the pier in Varenna you can find the Olivedo Lido. The beach is equipped with sun beds, deckchairs, changing rooms, showers and private mooring for boats. There is also a bar and restaurant where you can enjoy food and drinks.
Address: Via al Lido 4, Perledo
A 10-minute train ride takes you to the Riva Bianca public beach in Lierna: a little corner of paradise, with a pebble beach and crystal-clear waters. Admission is free, and there are several bars and restaurants within walking distance of the beach.
Address: Via Riva Bianca 8, Lierna
Reach Vezio Castle with a 30-minute uphill walk along a short but rather steep stretch, along the Scabium trail that starts from the historic center of Varenna, and return along the other trail that leads to the ferry pier.
Just remember to bring water with you, as there are no refreshment points along the way, except for the bars in Piazza S. Giorgio and at the castle.
The Sentiero del Viandante (Wayfarer’s Trail) runs along the entire eastern shore of Lake Como. It is 45 km long and suitable for everyone, but given its length, I recommend dividing the route into at least four stages.
Visit Varenna official website and check the 3 routes starting from the town center and reaching Lierna, Bellano and Albiga.
Explore Varenna step by step and plan your day
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From Varenna you can catch ferries to Bellagio, Menaggio, Tremezzina, Como, and many other locations on Lake Como. Use the questions below to understand routes, prices and how the service works. ⤵️
Varenna is a key hub for the Lake Como ferry system. The following ferries pass through Varenna:
Boats to and from Varenna operate all year round, including winter. Service interruptions are limited to major holidays (see the company’s website).
The cost depends on several factors, in particular: length of the journey, type of service (e.g., regular or express), whether it is a round-trip ticket or a day pass. Here are some examples:
The town has two piers, both located in the area of Via Imbarcadero:
On the company’s official website, navigazionelaghi.it.
Online booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season (between June and September). If you are unable to purchase your ticket online, you will need to go to the ticket office at the pier between 30 minutes and one hour before departure.
8 pax
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8 pax
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The best time to visit Varenna depends on what you look for. Here’s a clear breakdown:
If you want the perfect mix of good weather, beauty, and manageable crowds, choose:
➡️ Late May–June
➡️ Late September
The ferry ride from Varenna to Bellagio typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
In Varenna, it’s best to plan for at least a full half day to fully enjoy the historic center, lakeside views, and local experiences. This allows enough time to wander the charming streets, visit villas and gardens, and savor the town’s cuisine without rushing.
The narrow streets of Varenna’s historic center are full of steps and therefore not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
However, the lakefront (Passeggiata degli Innamorati and Riva Grande) and the roads surrounding the town are suitable for everyone and allow you to reach all the characteristic corners.
Address: Via 4 Novembre 7, Varenna
Explore Varenna step by step
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🎅Lake Como at Christmas? Here is what I wouldn’t miss:
1. Villa Cipressi Christmas Garden in Varenna 🎄
Until January 6, these botanical gardens turn into a magical, illuminated village. Music, glowing lights, and sweet treats everywhere!
2. Christmas markets in Como, Lecco and Colico 🍷
Mulled wine, local food, and perfect gifts to bring home
3. Christmas light displays ✨
Historic buildings in Como and Lecco light up after sunset, and the Bellano gorge, just minutes from Varenna, looks even more dramatic
4. Outdoor ice skating by the lake ⛸️
Skate on rinks in Como, Lecco, Menaggio and Colico, surrounded by mountains and water
➡️ Follow me and visit lakecomotravel.com for more tips!
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#lakecomochristmaslight #christmastravel #comochristmas #lakecomoitaly #villacipressi #christmaslightsdisplay
🇮🇹 Lake Como, where time slows down and light dances on the water.
Every corner feels like a film scene waiting to happen.
🎥 Featured: Villa Melzi · Villa Monastero · Varenna · VIlla La Cassinella · Villa Balbianello · Bellagio
📌 Save this for your next Italian escape!
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#lakecomoitaly #visitlakecomo #lagodicomo #beautifuldestinations #bellagio #varenna #villabalbianello #villamonastero
A day in Bellagio and Varenna 😍
Can you spot any of these places? If not, here you go ⬇️
1. View of Bellagio from the ferry
2. Salita Serbelloni in Bellagio
3-4. Pescallo, old fishing village now hamlet of Bellagio
5-6. Villa Melzi: Japanese-style pond and Arabic-style temple
7. Church of San Giovanni
8. Small harbor of Varenna
9. Passeggiata degli Innamorati
10. Riva Grande
11-12. Gardens of Villa Monastero
13. The Fiumelatte stream in Varenna
➡️ All you have to know is on lakecomotravel.com
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#lakecomoitaly #lakecomoviews #bellagiolakecomo #bellagioitaly #varennalakecomo #varennaitaly #villamelzi #villamonasterovarenna
🌟 Looking for a way to enjoy the best of Lake Como without spending a dime? Here are 5 beautiful activities you should try:
🏛️ Marvel at the stunning architecture of Como Cathedral right in the heart of the city
🌊 Take a romantic stroll with unbeatable lake views on the famous Walk of Lovers in Varenna
🌳 Relax right by the lake in the beautiful and peaceful parco Teresio Olivelli
🌸 Discover Giardino della Valle, one of the most stunning hidden gems of Lake Como
⛪ Take a break at Piona Abbey, a serene abbey with breathtaking views of the lake
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#comocathedral #duomodicomo #passeggiatadegliinnamorati #parcoteresioolivelli #giardinodellavalle #abbaziadipiona #lakecomoitaly
Lake Como’s villas are a blend of history, art, and breathtaking landscapes. Each one has its unique charm, but if I had to make a choice I`d definitely visit one of the following.
🌸 Villa Melzi: located in Bellagio, its beautiful gardens stretch along the lake, featuring sculptures, exotic plants, and a peaceful atmosphere. It`s the perfect spot for a tranquil stroll!
🎥 Villa del Balbianello: on the tip of a wooded peninsula, this villa offers stunning panoramic views of the lake and has been the backdrop for several films. A visit here feels like stepping into a fairy tale!
🌺 Villa Carlotta: a botanical paradise in Tremezzo, known for its vast gardens and art collection, including works by Canova and Hayez. The blooming azaleas and rhododendrons in spring are a sight to behold.
🌿 Villa Monastero: situated in Varenna, this villa`s botanical garden is a true gem, with terraces that seem to tumble into the lake. And the villa itself is now a museum with beautifully preserved interiors!
🌳 Villa Mylius-Vigoni: a lesser-known gem in Menaggio, this villa combines neoclassical architecture with serene gardens. It’s a quiet retreat, away from the more crowded spots.
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#lakecomoitaly #lakecomovillas #villamelzigardens #villadelbalbianello #villacarlotta #villamonastero #villamylius
Hidden among the Grigna mountains, Fiumelatte is one of Italy’s shortest rivers, spanning just 250 m (820 ft). Its frothy, milky-white waters give it its name and an otherworldly charm. Appearing in late March and vanishing by October, Fiumelatte is a captivating natural wonder linked to a vast underground basin.
➡️ How to get there?
From Piazza San Giorgio in Varenna, head south past Villa Monastero and stay on the carriage road that runs along the lake. After about 20 minutes you will find yourself at the mouth of the stream, nestled among the houses of the hamlet of Fiumelatte.
Continue for another two minutes until you find a small parking lot on the right and, on your left, an uphill road that runs through the alleys of the village and where you will find signs for the springs.
😍 Why visit?
Fiumelatte is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience. Enjoy a picnic at the well-equipped area by the river and soak in the stunning views!
📲 Ready to explore Fiumelatte? Discover more on lakecomotravel.com
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#fiumelatte #varenna #varennaitaly #lakecomo #lakecomoitaly
2 Responses
My family is planning a December trip to the area. Do you have a newsletter of things to do during the winter months?
Hello Debra, unfortunately not yet, but if you want see the available events I recommend visiting the following page: https://mylakecomo.co/en/lake-como-events/