Hotels & Accommodation in Varenna

Whispers of Varenna: A Lakeside Tapestry of Art and Enchantment

Nestled on the enchanting shores of Lake Como, Varenna is a picturesque gem that exudes charm and romance. With its vibrant, pastel-hued villas and cobbled streets, this tranquil village offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Key attractions include the exquisite Villa Monastero, with its lush gardens and museum, and the serene Castello di Vezio, perched high above the town. Visitors can wander along the scenic lakeside promenade or indulge in local cuisine at quaint trattorias. Varenna is the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for those seeking culture, beauty, and a touch of Italian magic.

Top locations to stay in Varenna

When visiting Varenna, Lombardy, Italy, consider staying in Bellagio, Menaggio, or Tremezzina. Bellagio is renowned for its stunning lake views and easy ferry access, while Menaggio offers a charming lakeside promenade and vibrant atmosphere. Tremezzina boasts beautiful gardens and historic villas. For first-time visitors, Bellagio is the ideal choice, blending picturesque scenery with convenient transport options.

1. BellagioOpens in a new window: Nestled at the point where the two branches of Lake Como meet, Bellagio is often referred to as the Pearl of the Lake. This charming town is renowned for its stunning lakeside views, cobbled streets, and beautiful gardens, making it a perfect backdrop for leisurely walks. The vibrant waterfront offers a delightful selection of shops and cafes, where you can relax and soak in the picturesque surroundings. With its ferry connections, Bellagio also serves as an ideal starting point for exploring other nearby towns on the lake, enhancing your travel experience.
2. MenaggioOpens in a new window: Menaggio is a captivating blend of natural beauty and Italian charm, located on the western shore of Lake Como. This town boasts a lovely promenade along the lake, perfect for sun-soaked strolls and enjoying scenic vistas. Menaggio is also a great base for outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling, with trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake. The town's central square is lively, featuring local shops and cafes where you can immerse yourself in the local culture.
3. TremezzinaOpens in a new window: Tremezzina is a picturesque area known for its stunning villas and lush gardens that grace the shores of Lake Como. The well-known Villa Carlotta, with its exquisite botanical gardens and art collections, is a must-visit. This tranquil location is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat, offering plenty of opportunities for lakeside picnics and exploring charming villages like Tremezzo and Lenno. With easy ferry access to other towns, Tremezzina provides a serene yet connected experience on your Italian getaway.

Things to do in Varenna

Varenna is a picturesque gem on the lake, where stunning vistas of shimmering waters meet lush mountains. Stroll along the scenic waterfront, hop on a ferry for breathtaking views, or hike through enchanting trails. With its charming atmosphere, it's an ideal retreat for nature lovers and explorers alike.

• Menaggio BeachOpens in a new window – Dive into relaxation at Menaggio Beach, where the shimmering waters of Lake Como invite you to soak up the sun. This lovely beach offers a tranquil escape, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Enjoy a leisurely swim or simply lounge on the sandy shore while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The beach is not just about the sun and water; it also provides a great spot for picnics with family and friends. Whether you’re building sandcastles with the kids or enjoying a good book, Menaggio Beach promises a delightful day by the lake. Don’t miss the chance to capture stunning photographs of the serene landscape, making memories that will last a lifetime. This idyllic setting is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of Lombardy while enjoying some leisure time in the sun.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Varenna

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those seeking an affordable getaway, the best time to visit Varenna is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. To fully appreciate the town's rich landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During this time, you can enjoy a variety of budget-friendly activities, including scenic walks along the lake, sightseeing tours, visits to local museums, and delightful dining experiences at charming cafés. With its friendly atmosphere and great value for money, Varenna is an ideal destination for travellers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Varenna, you may start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where discounted rates on nearby hotels may be available as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay updated on flash sales and special offers, maximising your chances to save. Additionally, Smart Shopping is a useful comparison tool within the app, allowing you to assess hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to be informed if prices drop or new rooms are available for your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could enable you to save on your stay at a hotel in Varenna. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may even offer better value. When you make a booking through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we’ll recommend more affordable dates, which could increase your chances of securing a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive; however, Varenna's excellent public transport links may allow you to discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well-connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often great value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Varenna

Varenna experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 36.7°F (2.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 69.4°F (20.8°C). August tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Varenna are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.