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

In Varese, top choices for lakeside stays include Hotel Villa Cigna and B&B La Casa del Sole, both offering panoramic views of Lake Como. These properties feature spacious balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and direct access to scenic walking paths along the shore. Hotel Villa Cigna, a historic boutique hotel, blends 19th-century architecture with modern luxury, while B&B La Casa del Sole provides a warm, family-run atmosphere with homemade breakfasts. Both are ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty in Lombardy’s heartland.

The historic center and lakefront district of Varese are the most desirable areas for lodging. The city center offers easy access to restaurants, cafés, and cultural sites like the Church of San Martino and the Museo Civico di Varese. Meanwhile, the lakefront zone provides serene, peaceful surroundings with stunning vistas of Lake Como. Staying near the Cathedral Square ensures convenience for exploring local heritage, while lakeside options are perfect for those prioritizing nature and quiet relaxation.

Must-try cultural experiences in Varese include attending the Lake Como Music Festival, held annually on open-air stages by the water, featuring classical and folk performances. Participate in a hands-on traditional Italian pasta-making workshop, where locals teach how to craft Tagliatelle and Ravioli using authentic recipes. Don’t miss the Sunday Mass at San Martino Church, which showcases deep-rooted Catholic traditions. These immersive activities offer genuine insight into Lombard life, artistry, and community spirit.

Yes, many hotels in Varese provide lake-view rooms, especially those located along the Lake Como shoreline. Top picks include Hotel Villa Cigna and B&B La Casa del Sole, both equipped with large windows and private terraces facing the lake. Some rooms even have direct access to walking trails or private docks. For the best experience, request a "Lake View" room when HopeGoo. These rooms offer breathtaking morning sunrises over the water and tranquil evening scenes lit by distant village lights.

From Varese, must-visit attractions include Lake Como itself—ideal for boat tours to Como City or Menaggio—and the Church of San Martino, a Gothic gem with intricate frescoes. Nature lovers should explore the Giardino Botanico di Varese, just 20 minutes away, housing over 3,000 plant species from Europe and Asia. Additionally, the Varese Market Hall (Mercato Coperto) offers fresh local cheese, truffles, and handmade salami. Each site reveals a different facet of Lombardy’s rich landscape and culture.

Yes, Varese is well-connected via public transit. From Milan Central Station, take a regional train (Trenord) to Varese Railway Station—just 45 minutes away. The station is within walking distance of the town center. Within the town, most sights are pedestrian-friendly, and electric bikes are available for rent. For exploring Lake Como, small ferries operate regularly. Consider purchasing a Milano Metropolitana Pass for discounted fares on trains and buses across the region.

Local delicacies in Varese reflect Lombard cuisine: try Risotto al Gorgonzola, creamy pasta with blue cheese; Polenta con Salsicce, a hearty cornmeal dish with sausage; and Tiramisu della Varese, a regional twist with walnuts and honey. Visit the Mercato Coperto di Varese for fresh cheeses, black truffles, and artisanal sausages. Recommended eatery: Trattoria Al Vecchio Olmo, famed for its roasted duck with sour plum sauce—a true local favorite.

The best time to visit Varese is from late spring to early autumn (May to September). Weather is mild, perfect for lake cruises, hiking, and outdoor dining. Cherry blossoms in May and lavender fields in June create stunning scenery. July and August are peak seasons—book ahead. Winter (December–February) is cold and rainy, but ideal for quiet retreats, snow-covered walks, and wellness spas, particularly appealing for slow travelers seeking serenity.

Yes, many hotels in Varese are family-friendly. Hotel Villa Cigna offers children’s robes, cribs, and supervised activities, while B&B La Casa del Sole features a private garden and game room. Local guides also run nature discovery programs for kids along the lake, teaching about flora and birds. Safe, shallow swimming spots along Lake Como make it ideal for families. The peaceful setting and welcoming atmosphere make Varese an excellent choice for multi-generational trips.

Varese has a quiet, low-key nightlife typical of a charming Italian town. While there are no major clubs, cozy wine bars (Enotecas) like Enoteca del Lago serve local wines and gourmet cheese platters. Every Friday, a small market with live music and crafts takes place at Piazza San Martino, creating a warm, communal vibe. For more vibrant options, head to Como City (20-minute drive), which offers diverse dining and evening entertainment. Overall, Varese suits travelers seeking calm, cultural evenings rather than late-night parties.