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Historic neighborhood · Bellagio, Lombardia
Varenna
Small village of colorful houses on the east shore of the lake, facing Bellagio, with a lakeside promenade, narrow streets and a direct train to Milan.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Varenna
Varenna sits on the east shore of Lake Como, in the province of Lecco, facing Bellagio across the lake arm. The colorful houses climb the hillside from a small harbor, and stepped alleys descend to the water.
The Passeggiata degli Innamorati, a lakeside walkway, links the boat pier to the center, with sections over the water. In the main square are the church of San Giorgio, from the 14th century, and the small church of San Giovanni Battista, one of the oldest on the shore.
Above the village, an uphill trail leads to the Castello di Vezio, a medieval tower with lake views, open in season. To the north, the Fiumelatte, a very short stream of white waters, runs only part of the year.
Varenna has a train station, Varenna-Esino, on the line coming from Milano Centrale, which makes it the quickest gateway to Bellagio: from the pier the ferry crosses in a few minutes.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 hours for the village and Villa Monastero; half a day if you climb up to the Castello di Vezio.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when tour group traffic decreases. The boat season with more departures usually runs from April to October.
How to get there
From Bellagio, ferry or Navigazione Laghi boat, with a crossing of about 15 minutes. From Milano Centrale, train to Varenna-Esino in about 1 hour.
Tip
The station is at the top of the village, a 10-minute walk from the pier. To go up to the Castello di Vezio, wear sturdy shoes and check whether it's open.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Varenna
How do I get from Bellagio to Varenna?
By ferry or boat operated by Navigazione Laghi. The crossing takes about 15 minutes.
Does Varenna have a train station?
Yes. Varenna-Esino station is served by trains from Milano Centrale, taking about 1 hour.
What to see in Varenna?
The Passeggiata degli Innamorati, the church of San Giorgio, Villa Monastero and, higher up, the Castello di Vezio.