Map of Varese, Italy

🏞️ What to do in Varese

Discover the enchanting city of Varese through a range of exciting activities that cater to every budget. From scenic hikes to cultural experiences, Varese offers something for everyone.

• Best Budget Activity in Varese:

  Parco di Villa Toeplitz: Explore the beautiful gardens of Villa Toeplitz with lush greenery and historic architecture.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Varese:

  Sacro Monte di Varese: Embark on a pilgrimage to the Sacro Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views and intricate chapels.

• Best Luxury Activity in Varese:

  Villa Panza: Immerse yourself in art at Villa Panza, a majestic estate housing contemporary art collections and serene gardens.

🍽️ Where to eat in Varese

Indulge in the culinary delights of Varese, known for its delicious Italian cuisine and must-try dishes such as risotto con salvia e pancetta (risotto with sage and pancetta).

• Best Budget Restaurant in Varese:

  Osteria Varese•$-$$:

  Traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist.

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Varese:

  Ristorante Al Porto•$$-$$$:

  Fresh seafood and pasta dishes.

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Varese:

  Il Lago dei Cigni•$$$-$$$$:

  Fine dining Italian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

• Best Budget Bar in Varese:

  Bar Centrale•$:

  Aperol Spritz

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Varese:

  Bar Panino•$$-$$$:

  Spritz Veneziano paired with Cicchetti

• Best Luxury Bar in Varese:

  Sky Lounge Bar•$$$-$$$$:

  Champagne with Oysters

🏰 What to see in Varese

Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of Varese by exploring its must-visit landmarks. From ancient churches to scenic viewpoints, Varese is a treasure trove of cultural gems.

• Sacro Monte di Varese

  A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 14 Baroque chapels nestled amidst lush greenery, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

• Villa Panza

  An elegant neoclassical villa housing a renowned modern art collection, including works by renowned artists such as Dan Flavin and James Turrell.

• Giardini Estensi

  Beautiful gardens surrounding the Palazzo Estense, featuring elaborate sculptural elements, fountains, and serene walking paths.

• Basilica di San Vittore

  A Romanesque church dating back to the 9th century, known for its stunning frescoes and ancient crypt.

• Campo dei Fiori Regional Park

  A nature reserve offering hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints, and a diverse range of flora and fauna, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Varese

Indulge in a shopping spree in Varese, known for its charming boutiques and fashionable stores offering a mix of local and international brands. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly finds or luxury designer pieces, Varese has something for every shopping enthusiast.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Varese:

  Mercato di Varese: Explore the vibrant open-air market in Piazza XX Settembre, offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and affordable clothing items.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Varese:

  Corso Matteotti: Stroll down Corso Matteotti, Varese's main shopping street lined with boutiques, shoe stores, and trendy cafes, offering mid-range fashion brands and accessories.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Varese:

  Città Fiera: Experience upscale shopping at Città Fiera, a modern shopping center showcasing luxury designer shops, elegant boutiques, and gourmet food stores.

🚌 Getting Around Varese

• Public Transport

  In Varese, public transportation is efficient and reliable, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. The main modes of public transport include buses and trains. The local bus network, operated by the company Varesine, covers the city and its outskirts, with routes connecting major attractions. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50, and there are also options for daily and weekly passes. The train network connects Varese to nearby cities like Milan and Como, providing a convenient way to travel between destinations. Train tickets vary in price depending on the destination and type of service.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Varese is well-connected to major transportation hubs. The main train station in Varese is Varese Nord, located in the city center, offering connections to Milan and other cities. For long-distance travel, Malpensa Airport is the closest major airport, approximately 30 km away from Varese. Shuttle buses and trains provide easy access to and from the airport.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Visitors can opt for car rental services from companies like Hertz, Europcar, and Avis. Prices start from €30 per day, with options for different car models and rental periods. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: To explore Varese on two wheels, tourists can rent bicycles from local providers such as Varese Bike and Bike It Easy. Prices start from €10 per day, with discounts for longer rental periods. Cycling is a popular and eco-friendly way to discover the city and its natural beauty.