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Vacation rentals in Varenna

Bring your family to Varenna on Lake Como, Italy—enjoy lakeside picnics, gentle hikes, colorful gardens, and gelato strolls by sparkling blue water.

Varenna Vacation Rentals

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Tips on renting in Varenna

Getting Around

When you visit Varenna, nestled along the sparkling shores of Lake Como in Italy, two must-see attractions stand out for families. Explore the enchanting Villa Monastero, where lush gardens spill down to the lake and kids can wander winding paths while parents soak in stunning mountain views. Don’t miss Castello di Vezio, perched above Varenna, offering panoramic vistas, falconry demonstrations, and ancient towers to climb—perfect for adventurous children. Enjoy lakeside gelato, family-friendly cafés, and gentle walks along the scenic waterfront, especially beautiful in spring and summer.

What to Pack

Pack light layers for Varenna in Lake Como, Italy, where mornings on Riva Grande Beach invite barefoot strolls and afternoons bring boat rides with mountain views. For spring or fall, bring cozy sweaters and rain jackets for lakeside walks or exploring Villa Monastero’s gardens. In winter, pack ski gear for family trips to Piani di Bobbio, a popular resort just an hour away. Don’t forget swimsuits, sun hats, and water shoes for kids, plus a camera and power bank to capture every lakeside memory.

Must-Try Activities

Varenna, nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Como, invites your family to slow down and savor lakeside life. Stroll the picturesque waterfront promenade, where kids can feed ducks or enjoy gelato with a view of colorful boats bobbing in the harbor. Explore the lush gardens of Villa Monastero, perfect for curious young explorers and parents seeking quiet beauty. In summer, let the kids splash at the small pebble beaches while you relax in the sun. Don’t miss a family hike up to Castello di Vezio for sweeping lake views and falconry shows.

Smart Spending Tips

Varenna on Lake Como is a dream for families seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. Plan for a daily budget of €200 per person or about €750 for a family of four, covering lakeside lodging, meals, and activities. Join the "Varenna Highlights Walking Tour" by Lake Como Food Tours for €45 per adult and €25 per child, exploring cobbled streets and lush gardens. Enjoy a family dinner at Ristorante Il Cavatappi, where a three-course meal averages €40 per person, perfect after a day by the sparkling lake.Varenna on Lake Como is a dream for families seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. Plan for a daily budget of €200 per person or about €750 for a family of four, covering lakeside lodging, meals, and activities. Join the "Varenna Highlights Walking Tour" by Lake Como Food Tours for €45 per adult and €25 per child, exploring cobbled streets and lush gardens. Enjoy a family dinner at Ristorante Il Cavatappi, where a three-course meal averages €40 per person, perfect after a day by the sparkling lake.

Vercana, perched above Lake Como, offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for families. Start your visit at Chiesa di San Salvatore, a charming church with panoramic lake vistas. Explore the cobblestone streets and discover the local bakery Panificio Vercana for fresh Italian treats. For outdoor adventures, book a guided hike with Lake Como Adventure Park, which offers family-friendly trails and ziplining. Enjoy a boat tour with Nautica Domaso, departing from nearby Domaso, to explore the lake’s picturesque villages. Spend an afternoon at Spiaggia di Domaso beach, ideal for swimming and windsurfing. Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante dei Pescatori, known for its fresh lake fish dishes. Take a day trip to Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, famous for its botanical gardens and art collections. Don’t miss the weekly Vercana market for local crafts and produce, perfect for souvenirs and a taste of village life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to see what Varenna has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Varenna, Italy enchants families with its picturesque lakeside setting along Lake Como, where colorful villas line cobblestone streets and lush gardens invite exploration. Children will delight in the enchanting Castello di Vezio, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views, while the lakeside promenade and ferry rides to Bellagio spark a sense of adventure. With authentic trattorias serving fresh local cuisine and the serene beauty of Villa Monastero’s botanical gardens, Varenna promises a magical getaway for all ages.

  • To make the most of your time in Varenna and avoid crowds, start your mornings early with a peaceful stroll along the lakeside promenade or a quiet visit to the lush Villa Monastero gardens before tour groups arrive. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café overlooking Lake Como, then explore the charming alleyways and the historic Church of San Giorgio. In the afternoon, take a scenic ferry to Bellagio or Menaggio, returning in the evening when Varenna is quieter for a sunset aperitivo by the water.

  • For families seeking spacious accommodations in Varenna with outdoor areas, Villa Monti is an excellent choice, offering elegant apartments with private gardens and panoramic terraces overlooking Lake Como. The charming Residence L’Ulivo also provides family-friendly suites with patios surrounded by olive trees, perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the picturesque lakeside promenade, the historic Villa Monastero, or the vibrant Piazza San Giorgio. These options blend comfort, privacy, and scenic outdoor settings for memorable family stays.

  • In just two days in Varenna, you can stroll along the picturesque lakeside promenade, explore the enchanting Villa Monastero with its lush botanical gardens, and climb up to Castello di Vezio for panoramic views of Lake Como. Wander the charming cobbled streets of the old town, enjoy a leisurely meal at a trattoria overlooking the water, and take a relaxing ferry ride to nearby Bellagio or Menaggio for a taste of other lakeside gems.

  • Yes, families visiting Varenna will find Lido di Menaggio, just a short ferry ride across Lake Como, an excellent choice. This beach offers a welcoming atmosphere with soft sand, shallow waters perfect for children, and a well-maintained playground. The lido also features shaded picnic areas, sun loungers, and a café where parents can relax while kids play. Its scenic views of the Grigne mountains and easy access from Varenna make it a favorite for a fun family outing.

  • Yes, you’ll find charming winter lodges and cabins near Varenna, especially around the scenic hills above Lake Como. Many accommodations in the villages of Perledo and Esino Lario offer rustic comfort with fireplaces and panoramic lake views. These spots put you close to the snowy trails of the Grigna mountains, perfect for snowshoeing and winter hikes. After a day outdoors, you can unwind in a cozy cabin, savoring local Lombard cuisine and a glass of Valtellina wine.

  • In Varenna, a charming village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, hotel prices typically range from about 100 to 350 euros per night depending on the season and proximity to the lake. Boutique hotels like Hotel du Lac or luxury stays at Villa Cipressi offer stunning waterfront views and lush gardens, while vacation rentals in the historic center or near Villa Monastero can provide cozy, authentic experiences at comparable rates, especially during the quieter months.

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