Valsolda(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For a romantic stay in Varese, consider Hotel Villa San Giorgio, a boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the old town, offering elegant rooms with antique furnishings and private balconies overlooking the Piazza del Municipio. Its rooftop terrace provides stunning views of the Church of San Giorgio at sunset, perfect for intimate dinners. The hotel also offers couples' spa treatments and wine pairings with local Lombard cuisine. Nearby, B&B Hotel Varese features modern, soundproofed rooms ideal for quiet evenings, while its central location ensures easy access to charming streets and candlelit restaurants. Both properties emphasize privacy, comfort, and authentic Italian charm—ideal for a memorable romantic escape in the heart of Lombardy.

The historic center of Varese is the best area for first-time visitors, offering walkable access to key landmarks such as the Municipal Palace, Church of San Giorgio, and Piazza del Municipio. This vibrant district is filled with cozy cafes, artisan shops, and family-run trattorias serving authentic Lombard dishes. It’s also close to public transport hubs, including the Varese Train Station, making it easy to explore nearby destinations like Lake Como or Milan. The area maintains a peaceful atmosphere despite its central location, with tree-lined streets and well-preserved 19th-century architecture. Staying here ensures an immersive experience of local life, culture, and history—perfect for travelers seeking authenticity over tourist sprawl.

In Varese, don’t miss the annual Festa di San Giorgio, a traditional summer festival featuring medieval parades, live folk music, artisan markets, and performances at the Church of San Giorgio square. You can also visit the Museo Civico di Varese, which showcases the town’s evolution from Roman times to the modern era through interactive exhibits and historical artifacts. For a deeper cultural immersion, book a guided tour at one of the local bakeries to witness the making of Tigelle and Sbrisolà, iconic Lombard pastries. These hands-on experiences offer a rare glimpse into the region’s culinary heritage and community traditions, all within a welcoming, low-key setting.

Just 20 minutes from Varese, the Lago di Como Western Shore Trail offers scenic walking paths along the lake, surrounded by lush forests and vineyards, with panoramic views of the Alps. Along the route, you’ll find secluded viewpoints perfect for photography and quiet reflection. Nearby, Castello di Cariano ruins have been transformed into an ecological reserve, home to native wildlife and hiking trails through ancient woodland. For a more tranquil experience, head to the Valle del Sessera Natural Park, where crystal-clear streams, stone footbridges, and untouched beech forests create a serene environment ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. These spots provide a peaceful contrast to urban life, enhancing any visit to Lombardy.

Must-try dishes in Varese include Pizzoccheri alla Varesina—a hearty dish made with buckwheat pasta, potatoes, cabbage, and Parmesan cheese, reflecting the mountainous roots of Lombard cuisine. Try Tigelle, a soft flatbread often served with olive oil and honey, a staple breakfast item. Also sample Sbrisolà, a crumbly almond-sugar pastry that melts in your mouth—best enjoyed with a glass of local sweet wine. These flavors are best experienced at century-old eateries like Caffè Centrale or Trattoria Al Vecchio Forno, where chefs prepare recipes passed down through generations. Many restaurants even offer live cooking demonstrations, allowing guests to connect with the soul of regional gastronomy.

Varese is ideal for travelers seeking slow travel, cultural depth, and authentic Italian countryside charm. It appeals to families looking for safe, walkable neighborhoods and child-friendly amenities; couples who appreciate quiet evenings in historic settings; and photographers drawn to golden-hour light on cobblestone streets and old churches. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the Municipal Palace and San Giorgio Church, while nature lovers can easily access nearby parks and lakes. With minimal crowds and no mass tourism, Varese offers a genuine glimpse into Lombardy’s rural life—perfect for those wanting to disconnect from the rush and reconnect with tradition, food, and beauty.

From Milan Central Station (Stazione Centrale Milano), take a Regionale train to Varese Station, a journey of approximately 35 minutes with frequent departures. Tickets cost around €4–6 and can be purchased via the Trenitalia app or at ticket machines. Upon arrival, the city center is just a 10-minute walk or a short ride on bus lines 10 or 11. For drivers, take the A8 highway and exit at "Varese Nord," reaching the town in about 45 minutes. Avoid weekends during festivals like Festa di San Giorgio for smoother travel. Always check schedules in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure timely connections.

Yes, nearly all hotels in Varese provide complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout their premises, including guest rooms, lobbies, and dining areas. Hotels like Hotel Villa San Giorgio and B&B Hotel Varese feature dual-band routers ensuring strong, stable connections suitable for remote work or streaming. Some boutique properties even offer smart room controls and wireless charging stations. While connectivity is generally reliable, occasional slowdowns may occur during large events like the Festa di San Giorgio due to increased usage. Guests are advised to confirm internet details upon check-in and request individual login credentials if needed. Multilingual staff are available to assist with technical issues.

Varese has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons: mild, rainy springs; warm, sunny summers (25–30°C) with occasional afternoon showers; crisp, colorful autumns ideal for hiking; and cold, occasionally snowy winters (0–8°C). Due to its location in the Lombardy plain, humidity levels remain moderate but can increase near rivers. Spring and autumn are optimal for travel—pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer visits require light clothing and rain gear; winter trips are best for indoor activities like museum tours or thermal spas. Always check forecasts before outdoor excursions, especially near the Lake Como shore trail or Valle del Sessera Natural Park, where weather changes quickly. Planning around seasonal events enhances the overall experience.

Top photo spots in Varese include the Church of San Giorgio at sunrise, where golden light highlights its Gothic spire and stained-glass windows. The Piazza del Municipio, framed by century-old trees and the Municipal Palace, offers a classic Italian town square composition. Capture the evening glow on the Riviera del Lago Como path, where reflections dance on calm waters. For architectural detail, photograph the intricate carvings on the Palazzo Comunale facade. Early mornings at Caffè Centrale reveal locals enjoying coffee—a candid moment of daily life. At night, the soft illumination of street lamps against aged stone buildings creates a dreamy, cinematic atmosphere. These locations deliver rich visual storytelling, perfect for travel bloggers and photography enthusiasts.