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VarennaCulture & history

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From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Guided Day Trip

1. From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Guided Day Trip

Marvel at the stunning mountain scenery around Lake Como on a guided day tour from Milan. Marvel at the Mediterranean and Alpine scenery on a summer boat cruise to Bellagio Island and Varenna, or ride the steep cogwheel line to the mountainside town of Brunate in winter. Begin your journey by bus and travel directly from Milan to Como. Join your guide on a walking tour to discover Como Cathedral and other historical gems. In summer, hop on a ferry along the lake and listen to a live commentary highlighting top villas, gardens, and other sites. Disembark at Bellagio, regarded as one of the most beautiful and idyllic towns in the region, and enjoy 2 hours of free time. Relax and savor a regional meal at one of the local restaurants. Board another ferry to the colorful Varenna. Stroll through the cobblestone corridors of this picturesque village and feel the charm of its tranquil streets. Finally, board your bus back to Milan where you can sit back and take advantage of the onboard Wi-Fi to share your photos of the day’s unforgettable memories.

Lake Como: Lakeside Villas Entry Tickets with Ferries

2. Lake Como: Lakeside Villas Entry Tickets with Ferries

Explore the iconic villas of Lake Como and the picture-perfect towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo in one day with ease, thanks to pre-booked entry tickets and ferry transportation. Take in the Villa Melzi D'Eril, Villa Monastero, and Villa Carlotta and their gardens, traveling via public ferry. Start your self-guided trip in Bellagio, Varenna, or Tremezzo. Spend the day exploring the towns and their villas at your own pace, focusing on what interests you. Travel across Lake Como using the public ferry, a convenient service that connects the three towns where the villas are located. In Bellagio, discover the spectacular gardens of the neo-classical Villa Melzi D'Eril. Admire sculptures, a Moorish temple, and more. In Varenna, visit Villa Monastero. Discover eight centuries of history in the well-kept House Museum before taking a stroll through the lakefront botanical gardens. Last but not least, in Tremezzo, take in the beautiful seventeenth-century Villa Carlotta. Marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists and the lush private apartments and furniture of Princess Charlotte of Sachsen-Meiningen. Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of color in the botanical gardens. Suggested itinerary starting in Varenna - Timetable until 04 June 2023: 10:00 AM: Arrival in Varenna by own means and visit the Villa Monastero Gardens 11:23 AM – 11:56 AM: Ferry transfer via the Varenna – Villa Carlotta route 12:00 PM: Visit Villa Carlotta 13:40 PM – 14:00 PM: Ferry transfer via the Villa Carlotta – Bellagio route 14:00 PM: Free time for lunch in Bellagio 15:00 PM: Visit the Villa Melzi D'Eril Gardens 16:15 PM – 16:50 PM: Ferry transfer via the Bellagio – Varenna route Suggested itinerary starting in Varenna - Timetable from 05 June 2023: 10:00 Arrival in Varenna by own means 10:23 – 10:56 Transfer by public boat for Varenna – Villa Carlotta route 11:00 Entrance at Villa Carlotta and free time for visit 12:16 – 12:35 Transfer by public boat for Villa Carlotta - Bellagio route 12:35 Free time for lunch in Bellagio 13:30 Entrance at the Gardens of Villa Melzi D'Eril and free time for visit 15:55 – 16:25 Transfer by public boat for Bellagio – Varenna route 16:30 Entrance at Villa Monastero house museum + garden and free time for visit 17:30 End of the tour Suggested itinerary starting in Bellagio - Timetable until 04 June 2023: 10:00 AM: Arrival in Bellagio by own means and visit the Villa Melzi D'Eril Gardens 11:40 AM – 11:56 AM: Ferry transfer via the Bellagio – Villa Carlotta route 12:00 PM: Visit Villa Carlotta 13:40 PM – 14:34 PM: Ferry transfer via the Villa Carlotta – Varenna route 14.35 PM: Free time for lunch in Varenna 15.30 PM: Visit the Villa Monastero Gardens 16:20 PM – 16:40 PM: Ferry transfer via the Varenna – Bellagio route Suggested itinerary starting in Bellagio - Timetable from 05 June 2023: 10:00 Arrival in Bellagio with own means and free visit to the Gardens of Villa Melzi D'Eril 11:40 – 11:53 Transfer by public boat for Bellagio – Varenna route 12:00 Free time for lunch in Varenna 13:00 Entrance at Villa Monastero and free time for visit 14:28 – 15:01 Transfer by public boat for Varenna - Villa Carlotta route 15:01 Entrance at Villa Carlotta and free time for visit 16:45 - 17:00 Tansfer by public boat for Villa Carlotta – Bellagio route Suggested itinerary starting in Tremezzo - Timetable until 04 June 2023: 10:00 AM: Arrival in Tremezzo by own means and visit Villa Carlotta 11:58 AM - 12:12 PM: Ferry transfer via the Villa Carlotta - Bellagio route 12:15 PM: Free time for lunch in Bellagio 13:30 PM: Visit the Villa Melzi D'Eril Gardens 14:50 PM – 15:19 PM: Ferry transfer via the Bellagio – Varenna route 15:30 PM: Visit the Villa Monastero Gardens 17:33 PM – 18:06 PM: Ferry transfer via the Varenna – Villa Carlotta route Suggested itinerary starting in Tremezzo - Timetable from 05 June 2023: 10:00 Arrival by own means at Villa Carlotta, Tremezzo and free time for visit 11:30 - 11:55 Transfer by public boat for Villa Carlotta – Bellagio route 12:00 Free time for lunch in Bellagio 13:30 Entrance at the Gardens of Villa Melzi D'Eril and free time for visit 14:50 -15:05 Transfer by public boat for Bellagio – Varenna route 15:10 Entrance at Villa Monastero and free time for visit 16:30 – 17:06 Transfer by public boat for Varenna – Villa Carlotta route

Milan: Small-Group Lake Como Day Trip to Bellagio & Varenna

3. Milan: Small-Group Lake Como Day Trip to Bellagio & Varenna

Be introduced to the most famous lake in Italy on a guided excursion in a small group (max. 10 people) from Milan with included ferry and train tickets. Admire Lake Como, its remarkable villas, and breathtaking villages, such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo. Step into a lakeside restaurant to eat lunch at your own expense. Start your adventure near Piazza Duomo in Milan and join your guide on a 1-hour train ride to Lake Como. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the lake's famous "golden triangle" section, known for its picturesque small towns. Explore Varenna's cobblestone alleys with stunning views of the lake. Visit elegant villas with botanical gardens, such as Villa Monastero, complemented with extensive lakefront gardens, sculptures, and fountains. Visit this villa to admire the prestigious lifestyle of Italy's most privileged. Board the ferry for a 30-minute ride to Bellagio and admire the town's church with panoramic views from the top. Discover quaint boutiques with local art and stop by a lakeside restaurant to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine for an extra cost. Take the ferry back to Varenna then board the train back to Milan together with your guide.

Lake Como: Highlights Tour with a Local by Private Car

4. Lake Como: Highlights Tour with a Local by Private Car

Your expert local tour guide & driver (MSc Geography) will show you the best parts of Lake Como, including many hidden secrets you can’t find easily on your own. On this road trip by private car, you will be able to see a lot of sightseeing points within a short timeframe. Apart from explaining the sightseeing points your guide can provide insight into the history and culture of the region and the country Italy in general. The focus of this tour is to see the area like a local. However, this private tour can be customised according to your wishes. Sightseeing points to visit can be agreed upon in advance or discussed when meeting up. STANDARD sightseeing places we can visit during the tour are: - Como city - Comacina Island: perfect place for for swimming - Bellaggio: most famous town at the lake - Menaggio - Villa Carlotta: explore the villa and the beautiful botanical gardens - Villa del Balbianello: famous Star Wars scene was filmed here - Varenna: one of the most beautiful towns of Lake Como Some examples of HIDDEN SECRETS we will visit (how many we are able to cover depends on the length of the tour you are booking): - Argegno: charming town with few tourists - Galbiga mountain: best views over Lake Como - Pigra: serene mountain village - Nesso: a very picturesque village - Sormano: drive the scenic mountain pass road at Sormano - Chiesa di San Martino at Griante: hike 2 hours to this church steep in the cliffs above the lake

Varenna: Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero

5. Varenna: Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero

Tasting in a Varenna wine shop with a selection of three local sparkling wines by glass, served with breadsticks and olives. Arrival at free times during the day. Opening and closing times: From 12:00 to 20:00 (closed on public holidays). Entrance to Villa Monastero with free times during the day. Garden only from 09:30 to 19:30 (April – May) Garden and house museum every day from 09:30 to 20:00 (June - July - August) Garden every day and house museum from Tuesday to Sunday from 09:30 to 19:30 (September, closed on the following days: 21/22/23) Garden every day and house museum from Tuesday to Sunday from 09:30 to 18:00 (October to November 1st) To accompany you during your day's visit to Varenna on Lake Como, an exclusive audio guide that can be downloaded via app on your phone, will be available in 7 different languages: Italian, English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Chinese and will be able to tell you from photographs, maps, text and professional audio the location and landmarks of your destination.

Lake Como: Villa Carlotta Entry Tickets with Ferries

6. Lake Como: Villa Carlotta Entry Tickets with Ferries

Villa Carlotta with ferry boat from Bellagio 10:40 – 10:56 Departure by ferry boat for the Bellagio – Villa Carlotta route 11:00 Entrance to Villa Carlotta for the free visit of the botanical garden + museum 13:45 – 14:15 Departure by ferry boat for the Villa Carlotta – Bellagio route Free time for lunch in Bellagio *boat timetables may undergo changes based on the public navigation schedule of Lake Como Villa Carlotta with ferry boat from Varenna 10:23 – 10:56 Departure by ferry boat for the Varenna – Villa Carlotta route 11:00 Entrance to Villa Carlotta for the free visit of the botanical garden + museum 13:45 – 14:50 Departure by ferry boat for the Villa Carlotta – Varenna route Free time for lunch in Varenna *boat timetables may undergo changes based on the public navigation schedule of Lake Como

Lake Como: Villa Monastero Entry Tickets with Ferries

7. Lake Como: Villa Monastero Entry Tickets with Ferries

Villa Monastero with ferry boat from Bellagio 10:45 – 11:13 Departure by ferry boat for the Bellagio – Varenna route 11:30 Entrance to Villa Monastero for the free visit of the botanical garden + museum (in May only gardens) Free time for lunch in Varenna 15:10 – 15:50 Departure by ferry boat for the Varenna – Bellagio route *boat timetables may undergo changes based on the public navigation schedule of Lake Como Villa Monastero with ferry boat from Tremezzo 10:20 – 11:13 Departure by ferry boat for the Tremezzo – Varenna route 11:30 Entrance to Villa Monastero for the free visit of the botanical garden + museum (in May only gardens) Free time for lunch in Varenna 15:10 – 16:00 Departure by ferry boat for the Varenna – Tremezzo route *boat timetables may undergo changes based on the public navigation schedule of Lake Como

Varenna: Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Castello di Vezio

8. Varenna: Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Castello di Vezio

Tasting in a Varenna wine shop with a selection of three local sparkling wines by glass, served with breadsticks and olives. Arrival at free times during the day. Opening and closing times: From 12:00 to 20:00 (closed on public holidays). Entrance to the Castello di Vezio with free times during the day. Monday - Friday from 10:00 to 18:00 Saturday - Sunday from 10:00 to 19:00 (April - May - September) Monday - Friday from 10:00 to 19:00 Saturday - Sunday from 10:00 to 20:00 (June - July - August) Monday - Friday from 10:00 to 17:00 Saturday - Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00 (October) To accompany you during your day's visit to Varenna on Lake Como, an exclusive audio guide that can be downloaded via app on your phone, will be available in 7 different languages: Italian, English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Chinese and will be able to tell you from photographs, maps, text and professional audio the location and landmarks of your destination.

5-Day North Lakes: Milan & Bernina Express Experience

9. 5-Day North Lakes: Milan & Bernina Express Experience

Spend 5 days and 4 nights touring the lakes region of northern Italy. Admire the scenic beauty of Milan, Como, Bellagio, Bergamo, Sirmione, Riva del Garda, and Franciacorta by land and water. Explore the historic city of Verona on a guided tour. Day 1: Milan with happy hour Welcome to Milan! Meet our driver at Milan Malpensa Airport and enjoy a private transfer to Starhotels Ritz. In the afternoon, meet your professional local guide at the hotel and set off on a three-hour walking tour through the heart of Milan. The last stop will be the majestic Castello Sforzesco, a medieval fortress built in the 15th century by the Duke of Milan, Francesco Sforza. In its vicinity, we have chosen a refined bakery for you to be able to relax and taste a typical aperitivo (happy hour). At the end of the aperitivo, the tour will be over and you will have some free time before returning to the hotel on your own. The overnight stay is in Milan. Day 2: Milan, Bernina Express, Milan (B) Just like sitting in a theater, you will admire unique views from your seat on board the Bernina Train, a piece of history (it is 100 years old), and a World Heritage train. After breakfast at the hotel, meet our driver and reach Tirano. Get on board there and start this ride along one of the most beautiful railway routes in the world, with its unsurpassed alpine views. The journey will need two hours to complete. As the train winds its way over the Alps, occasionally passing through mountain tunnels, and puffing its way past a myriad of towns and villages, a number of highlights will catch your attention. Look out at the Swiss Alps as you ride along the Bernina pass to St. Moritz, and then enjoy free time to explore it. Meet your driver to return to Milan (meeting point in St. Moritz). Overnight stay in Milan. Day 3: Milan, Como, Bellagio, Bergamo (B, D) Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and then prepare for a short visit to Como, a tourist destination for its vicinity to Lake Como and the Alps. Amazing views over the lake and the alpine valleys are guaranteed! The lake itself, sometimes called Lario, has long been famous for its y-shape and for Bellagio, which you will reach by boat. This little gem town lies at the intersection of the lake’s 2 southern arms, with the Alps dominating the horizon to the north, and is home to some of the most charming landscapes in Italy. Spend some time exploring this picturesque village and its small streets, luxury hotels, villas, and gardens, and have lunch at your leisure in one of the many restaurants or cafés. Back on board, you will make your way to Tremezzo/Villa Carlotta where you will meet the driver and begin your journey to Bergamo, a truly historic and artistic jewel characterized by its urban structure: the città bassa (or lower town) is modern and dynamic, while the famous città alta (or upper town) houses the city’s medieval heart. Check-in at your Bergamo hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. Day 4: Bergamo, Sirmione, Riva Del Garda, Bergamo (B, D) Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, is the next destination. After breakfast at your hotel, we recommend taking a panoramic tour of the lake’s west coast, taking in the splendid natural landscape, like the Brenta Dolomites (the Brenta Group has been officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the gentle slopes of the Moraine Hills of Lower Garda. Next, move to Sirmione, where Lake Garda and its surroundings are at their finest. See the sun reverberating on the lake’s blue waters, the tree-lined shores, and Sirmione Castle as well as the ruins of Catullus’s villa or Grottoes of Catullus during a boat tour. Once you’re through, you will have some free time to have lunch before departing for Riva del Garda. Located on the north side of the lake, you will see its quaint Venetian-style historical center. Dinner and Overnight stay in Bergamo. Day 5 Bergamo, Verona, Franciacorta (light lunch and wine tasting) Milan (B, L) After breakfast, reach “fair Verona”, a museum en plein air. A local professional will be waiting for you and take you on a guided tour. After the Verona tour, drive towards the area of Franciacorta, this is where you will enjoy a light lunch and taste some local food as well as the renowned local wine. After this experience, you will head for Milan, where our services will end.

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What people are saying about Varenna

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 4 reviews

Our tour guide was the best, it felt like a VIP tour since we choose language Spanish and my partner and I were the only ones. Very normal pace and got to discover the beautiful views and history of Lake Como. Definitely recommend and will go again when we get the chance to visit.

It was amazing. Guide tour was brilliant. Lots of time in each place. I didn’t feel rushed at any place. Would deffo recommend!

Fantastic arrangements across the whole trip. Great guide. Loved it. Good value for money, time well spent

Fantastic tour, the tour guide was very helpful and informative, would recommend this tour!

fantastic day out and you get to see alot of the lake and surrounding areas.