Area guide · Varenna

Varenna — the quieter side of Lake Como

Varenna is the eastern-shore village that always feels half-empty even when Bellagio is packed. Pastel houses, a tiny harbour, two of the best lakeside gardens, and the easiest train ride from Como.

Getting there from Blevio

• · By train (best): Como San Giovanni → Varenna-Esino, ~1 hour direct.
• · By car: ~1h 15 along the eastern lake road.
• · By ferry from Bellagio: 15 minutes — combine the two on one trip.

What to see

• · Villa Monastero — a former monastery turned villa, with botanical gardens that stretch nearly a kilometre along the lake.
• · Villa Cipressi — terraced gardens next door, smaller and quieter.
• · Castello di Vezio — a ruined castle on the cliff above Varenna with a 20-minute walk up and a panoramic terrace.
• · Walk of Lovers (Passeggiata degli Innamorati) — the lakeside path linking the ferry dock to the old village.

Where to eat

Il Cavatappi for a tiny stone-walled dinner spot, Nilus Bar for lakeside aperitivo, or Ristorante La Vista at Hotel Eremo Gaudio for the view alone.