Hotels in Varenna

Varenna: Lake Como's Eastern Shore Village

Varenna sits on the eastern shore of Lake Como, roughly 80 km north of Milan. The village clusters around a small harbour, with narrow stone lanes rising steeply to Villa Monastero — a 13th-century former convent whose botanical garden stretches 2 km along the waterfront. The Castello di Vezio, perched 200 m above the lake, dates to the 11th century and offers unobstructed views across to Bellagio and the western shore.

Where to Stay

Hotels in Varenna concentrate near Piazza San Giorgio and along the lakefront promenade, Passeggiata dell'Amore. Properties range from converted historic residences to small family-run hotels. The village is smaller than Como or Lecco, so accommodation options are limited — booking several months ahead is advisable for June through August.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Varenna–Esino station sits on the Milan–Sondrio line; trains from Milano Centrale run roughly every hour and take about 70 minutes.
• Ferries: The car ferry linking Varenna, Bellagio, and Cadenabbia runs year-round; foot passengers pay under €5 per crossing.
• Season: The village is quietest October through March; most lakefront restaurants close by late November.
• Footwear: Cobblestone streets and steep stairways make flat-soled shoes more practical than sandals.