Things to Do at Varenna
Complete Guide to Varenna in Lake Como
About Varenna
What to See & Do
Villa Monastero
A former monastery turned elegant villa with terraced botanical gardens that cascade down to the lake. The house museum is interesting enough, but the real draw is wandering these romantic gardens with their exotic plants and striking lake views.
Castello di Vezio
Medieval castle ruins perched high above the town, offering some of the best panoramic views of Lake Como. It's a bit of a hike up, but the views are genuinely spectacular, and they often have falconry demonstrations that are surprisingly engaging.
Villa Cipressi
Another beautiful villa with terraced gardens, now operating as a hotel but open for garden visits. The cypress-lined pathways and lake vistas are particularly lovely in the late afternoon light.
Varenna's Old Town
Simply wandering the narrow medieval streets is half the pleasure here. Don't miss the picturesque Contrada del Pino, a covered walkway that's become something of an Instagram favorite, though it's charming regardless of your social media habits.
Lakefront Promenade
The Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lovers' Walk) is a romantic waterfront path that connects the town center to Villa Monastero. Perfect for an evening stroll when the light hits the lake just right.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Varenna itself is always accessible, but villa gardens typically open 9:30 AM-6:30 PM (shorter hours in winter). Castello di Vezio usually opens 10 AM-6 PM, though hours vary seasonally.
Tickets & Pricing
Villa Monastero gardens cost around €5, Villa Cipressi gardens €4, Castello di Vezio €4. Many visitors just enjoy the free public areas and lakefront, which are equally beautiful.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall offers the best weather and garden displays. Early morning or late afternoon provides the most magical light and fewer crowds. Weekdays tend to be more peaceful than weekends.
Suggested Duration
A leisurely half-day allows you to see the main sights and soak up the atmosphere. If you're including the castle hike and want to linger over lunch, plan for a full day.
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
The most famous of Lake Como's towns, about 15 minutes by ferry. More touristy than Varenna but undeniably beautiful, with elegant shops and the striking Villa Melzi gardens.
A larger, more resort-like town on the western shore, easily reached by ferry. Good for shopping and dining, with a pleasant lakefront promenade and easy access to hiking trails.
One of Lake Como's most photographed villas, perched on a wooded peninsula near Lenno. Famous as a filming location for Star Wars and James Bond movies.
A more substantial town at the southeastern end of the lake, with good train connections to Milan. Less touristy but with nice lakefront areas and the interesting Manzoni connection.
Italy's shortest river, just a few minutes south of Varenna. It's more of a curiosity than a major attraction, but the short walk along the stream is pleasant and the name alone is worth it.