Varenna Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Varenna
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Where colorful buildings cascade down hillsides to meet Lake Como’s eastern shore, Varenna invites your family to discover narrow cobblestone passages draped in flowers and ancient archways that frame water views at every turn. The romantic Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lover’s Walk) winds along the shoreline between stone walls and lapping waves, leading you from the ferry dock to Riva Grande Bay where children can dip their toes in pristine water while families of ducks glide past. Your kids will love exploring Villa Monastero’s botanical gardens that stretch 2 kilometers along the lake, where towering cypress trees stand like green sentinels and the scent of citrus blossoms fills warm afternoon air.
The medieval Castello di Vezio perches high above Varenna on an olive-tree-covered promontory, offering falconry demonstrations that captivate children and sweeping views across Lake Como’s glittering surface. Walk just 15 minutes south to discover Fiumelatte, home to one of Italy’s shortest rivers at only 250 meters long, flowing with milky-white water from March through September before mysteriously disappearing for winter months.
The Lido di Varenna beach offers sunbeds, changing rooms, and shallow swimming spots perfect for younger children, while ferry connections whisk your family to Bellagio and Menaggio in minutes.
Nearby cities
Lierna
Bring your family to Lierna, Lake Como for lakeside picnics, safe swimming, mountain walks, and gelato by the shore—enjoy Italy’s beauty together year-round.
Bellagio
Bring your family to Bellagio, Lake Como for lakeside picnics, gentle boat rides, and strolls through flower-filled gardens—Italy’s perfect spot for outdoor fun.
Bellano
Bring your family to Bellano on Lake Como for lakeside picnics, gentle hikes, and gelato by the water—discover Italy’s warm, welcoming embrace together.
Menaggio
Discover Menaggio on Lake Como—where your family can picnic by sparkling shores, paddle calm waters, and wander sunny piazzas surrounded by mountain views.
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!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
