Nestled on the eastern shores of Lake Como, Varenna is a picturesque gem that captivates visitors with its charming streets and stunning vistas. This small Italian town is home to some of the best places to experience the magic of Lake Como, including the beautiful Villa Monastero with its lush gardens and the historic San Giovanni Battista Church. Whether you arrive by ferry from Bellagio or take a short walk from the train station, Varenna’s enchanting atmosphere will immediately draw you in.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Varenna ☀️:
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Albergo Milano
- 💸 Cheap: Albergo Del Sole
- 🏢 Apartament: Luci sul Lago - A Real Paradise
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Holiday Home La Cascina by Interhome
- 🏩 For Couples: Veloccino del Lago
For those looking to visit Lake Como, Varenna offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. The town boasts several beaches, including the small but inviting Lido di Varenna, where you can soak up the sun or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. If you’re seeking things to do in Varenna, consider taking a private boat tour, strolling along the romantic lakeside promenade, or exploring the town’s charming cafes and boutiques. Whether you choose to stay in Varenna for a few days or visit as a day trip, this idyllic destination promises an unforgettable Lake Como experience.
Beautiful Beaches in Varenna: Quick Overview 🏦
- 🏖️ For relaxation and scenic views: Riva Bianca
- 🌅 For seclusion and tranquility: Lido di Varenna
- 🐕 For dog-friendly fun: Bau Bau Beach
- 🚶 For easy access and convenience: Varenna Public Beach
1. 🏖️ Riva Bianca: For Relaxation and Scenic Views
🌊 Natural Beauty: Riva Bianca is a hidden gem on Lake Como, offering a free public beach with crystal-clear waters and an enchanting backdrop. The beach is ideal for those seeking a more secluded and natural environment, providing tranquility and unspoiled beauty.
🏞️ Scenic Surroundings: The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation, allowing visitors to unwind while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
🚶♂️ Accessibility: Located near the charming village of Varenna, Riva Bianca is easily accessible, making it a convenient option for tourists. A short walk from the town center brings you to this serene spot, ideal for a peaceful day by the water.
🏛️ The Best Sights Near Riva Bianca
- Villa Monastero: A beautiful villa with botanical gardens.
- Castello di Vezio: Offers panoramic views of Lake Como.
- Sentiero del Viandante: A scenic hiking trail along the lake.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat Near Riva Bianca
- Vecchia Varenna: Known for its classic dishes and lakeside views.
- Il Cavatappi: Offers a cozy atmosphere with delicious local cuisine.
- Hosteria del Platano: Features lake-inspired dishes in a picturesque setting.
🚗 Getting There: Riva Bianca is easily reachable by foot from Varenna’s town center. For those traveling from further afield, Varenna is well-connected by train and ferry services, making it accessible from major cities like Milan.
Best Hotels Near Riva Bianca 🌊
- GAIA: Cozy accommodation located in Lierna, offering a peaceful retreat with comfortable rooms and modern amenities. Perfect for travelers looking to explore the scenic beauty of Lake Como.
- Holiday Home La Cascina by Interhome: Family-friendly holiday home featuring multiple bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a garden area. Located in a peaceful setting, it provides ample space for families to relax and enjoy their stay.
- La casa dei pini: Charming house nestled among pine trees in Lierna, offering a serene escape with beautiful natural surroundings. Ideal for guests seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.
2. 🌅 Lido di Varenna: For Seclusion and Tranquility
🌴 Peaceful Retreat: Lido di Varenna offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This small beach provides a quiet spot to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the calming sounds of Lake Como’s gentle waves.
🚤 Private Mooring Dock: For those arriving by boat, Lido di Varenna features a private mooring dock. This convenience allows visitors to explore the lake at their leisure before settling down for some waterfront relaxation.
🍹 Facilities: The beach is part of the Olivedo Lido Bar and Restaurant, offering amenities such as sunbeds for hire and access to refreshments. It’s an ideal spot for unwinding with a drink in hand while taking in the stunning views.
🏛️ The Best Sights Near Lido di Varenna
- Passeggiata degli Innamorati: A romantic lakeside promenade.
- Villa Cipressi Gardens: Known for their enchanting beauty.
- Varenna Town Center: Offers charming streets and historical sites.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat Near Lido di Varenna
- Dell’Albergo Du Lac Restaurant: Offers panoramic lake views.
- La Veranda dei Pescatori: Features high-quality cuisine in Perledo.
- Visteria dell’Hotel Royal Victoria: Known for its Mediterranean dishes.
🚤 Getting There: Located near the ferry dock, Lido di Varenna is easily accessible by ferry or on foot from Varenna’s center. Visitors can also arrive by train or car, with parking available nearby.
Best Hotels Near Lido di Varenna ☀️
- Albergo Milano: This charming 3-star hotel offers cozy rooms with stunning views of Lake Como. Guests can enjoy a delightful breakfast on the terrace and explore nearby attractions with ease. The hotel’s restaurant, Ristorante La Vista, is renowned for its delicious local cuisine.
- Hotel Olivedo: Located near the ferry terminal, Hotel Olivedo provides guests with convenient access to Lake Como’s scenic beauty. The hotel features elegant rooms with classic decor and offers a restaurant serving traditional Italian dishes. It’s an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore Varenna and its surroundings.
- Albergo Del Sole: Situated in the heart of Varenna, this hotel boasts a prime location near Piazza San Giorgio. Albergo Del Sole offers classic-style rooms with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and a restaurant with a pizzeria. Guests can enjoy a sweet breakfast each morning and explore the vibrant town square just steps away.
3. 🐕 Bau Bau Beach: For Dog-Friendly Fun
🐾 Pet-Friendly Environment: Bau Bau Beach is perfect for dog lovers looking to enjoy Lake Como with their furry friends. This beach welcomes dogs, providing a space where pets can play freely in the water and on the shore.
🌿 Natural Setting: The beach offers a natural environment where visitors can relax amidst greenery and enjoy the fresh air. It’s an ideal spot for both pets and owners to unwind together in a beautiful setting.
🛶 Recreational Activities: In addition to being dog-friendly, Bau Bau Beach offers opportunities for kayaking and other water sports. It’s a great place for active visitors who want to explore Lake Como beyond its shores.
🏛️ The Best Sights Near Bau Bau Beach
- Church of San Giovanni Battista: Known for its unique façade.
- Villa Monastero Gardens: Offers stunning views of the lake.
- Varenna’s Historic Streets: Perfect for leisurely strolls.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat Near Bau Bau Beach
- Il Cavatappi: Known for its welcoming atmosphere and tasty dishes.
- Vecchia Varenna: Offers classic Italian cuisine with lakeside views.
- Hosteria del Platano: Features creative dishes inspired by local flavors.
🚶♂️ Getting There: Bau Bau Beach is accessible on foot from Varenna’s town center. Visitors can also reach it via ferry or train services that connect Varenna with other towns around Lake Como.
Best Hotels Near Bau Bau Beach 🏝️
- Veloccino del Lago: This romantic getaway spot offers elegantly decorated rooms and a serene ambiance. Couples can enjoy intimate dinners at nearby restaurants and take leisurely strolls along the picturesque lakeside, making it an ideal choice for a romantic escape.
- Varenna Wonders, Villa with pool for 14 guests: Perfect for large groups or families, this spacious villa accommodates up to 14 guests and features a private pool. Located in a scenic area, it provides ample space for relaxation and entertainment, ensuring a memorable stay on Lake Como.
- Luci sul Lago - A Real Paradise: This luxurious apartment offers modern amenities and breathtaking views of Lake Como. Ideal for travelers seeking a home-like experience with the convenience of self-catering facilities, it provides a perfect base for exploring the surrounding beauty of Varenna.
4. 🚶 Varenna Public Beach: For Easy Access and Convenience
🏖️ Central Location: Situated near Varenna’s town center, this public beach offers easy access for visitors looking to enjoy Lake Como without venturing far from their accommodations or other attractions.
🌞 Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The beach provides a safe environment suitable for families with children. With shallow waters and nearby amenities, it’s an ideal spot for a fun day out with loved ones.
🛍️ Nearby Amenities: Close proximity to shops, cafes, and restaurants makes this beach convenient for those who want to combine sunbathing with exploring local offerings. It’s perfect for visitors who appreciate having everything within reach.
🏛️ The Best Sights Near Varenna Public Beach
- Lovers Walk Passageway: A charming path along the lake.
- Villa Monastero Museum: Offers cultural insights into Lake Como’s history.
- Varenna Ferry Terminal: Provides easy access to other towns on the lake.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat Near Varenna Public Beach
- Vecchia Varenna: Known for its traditional dishes.
- Il Cavatappi: Offers delicious meals in a cozy setting.
- Dell’Albergo Du Lac Restaurant: Features stunning views alongside fine dining.
🚶♂️ Getting There: Easily reachable on foot from anywhere in Varenna, this public beach is also accessible via train or ferry services that connect it with other parts of Lake Como.
Best Hotels Near Varenna Public Beach ⛱️
- Villa Varenna: Nestled in the heart of Varenna, this charming villa offers guests a luxurious stay with elegantly furnished rooms and stunning views of Lake Como. Ideal for those seeking a tranquil retreat, it provides easy access to local attractions and dining options.
- Villa Perledina by Wonderful Italy: This exquisite villa boasts modern amenities and breathtaking panoramic views of the lake. Perfect for families or groups, it features spacious living areas and a beautiful garden, making it an excellent choice for a relaxing holiday.
- Varenna Hill apt: Located on a hillside, this apartment offers stunning vistas of Lake Como and the surrounding landscape. With its modern design and comfortable furnishings, it provides a cozy base for exploring the picturesque town of Varenna and its natural beauty.
📝 Conclusion: Varenna
Varenna is one of the most enchanting towns in Lake Como, located on the eastern side of the lake. Known for its picturesque charm and stunning views, Varenna is a must-visit place to include in your Lake Como itinerary. Whether you’re planning a trip to Lake Como from Milan or exploring the northern Italy region, Varenna offers an unforgettable experience. With its proximity to Bellagio and Varenna’s own unique allure, it’s one of the best places to stay in Lake Como.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions
Does Varenna have sandy beaches?
Yes! Varenna features several charming beaches with pebbly shores, offering stunning views of Lake Como. These beaches are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the serene beauty of the area.
Is there a fee to access the beaches in Varenna?
Most beaches in Varenna, like Riva Bianca and Varenna Public Beach, are free for everyone to enjoy. However, some private lidos may charge a small fee for access to amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas.
Can you bring dogs to the beaches in Varenna?
Absolutely! Bau Bau Beach is a dog-friendly spot where you can enjoy the lake with your furry friends. It provides a welcoming environment for pets to play and swim.
Are there facilities available at Varenna’s beaches?
Yes, many of Varenna’s beaches offer basic facilities such as restrooms and nearby cafes or restaurants. Lido di Varenna, for instance, provides additional amenities like sunbeds and refreshments.
What is the best time to visit Varenna’s beaches?
The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn, typically May through September, when the weather is warmest. Visiting during these months allows you to fully enjoy the lake’s beauty and outdoor activities.
