Varenna Things to Do Tips by tpal Top 5 Page for this destination

Villa Monastero

There is no shortage of magnificent villas along the shore of Lake Como and there is also probably ample opportunity to argue which is the "most magnificent". I'd have to say though, that in regard to structure and setting this one ain't bad! The Villa Monastero was built starting in the 19th century. Located in Varenna just down the road from the Villa Cipressi, this is definitely the star if only based on size. Whereas the gardens of Villa Cipressi are beautiful and charming, the gardens of Villa Monastero are spectacular and somewhat daunting.
Today the villa is owned by the National Counsel for Research (how's that for sounding important and undefining all at once) and provides conference space. The gardens are open to the public and extensive. If you want to see it all you will need to set aside at least half a day. Even then it will likely be difficult to absorb all the formally developed terraced gardens, sculptures and the many peaceful seating areas.

Address: viale G. Polvani, 2 - 23829 Varenna

Phone: + 39 0341 295450

Website: http://www.villamonastero.it

Villa Cipressi

The village of Varenna is worth visiting merely for the joy of enjoying the town and the vistas it offers. If, however, you need more specific attractions you will find several options. This photo offers one of those views that is so ideal that it could easily be confused with the work of a Hollywood matte artist. It is definitely worth a click to enlarge.
The picture is taken from Villa Cipressi. The villa itself has now been converted into a hotel and as such is not open to tour unless you are a guest. The gardens, however, are open and wonderful. Not quite as extensive as its sister 80 meters down the road, the Villa Monastero, but still charming in a more controllable manner. Large enough to become engulf but not so large as to be overwhelming.

Address: Via IV Novembre, 18 - 23829 Varenna

Phone: 0341 830113

Website: http://www.hotelvillacipressi.it

Romantic Promenade

If you have arrived in Varenna by ferry boat, as we did, you will see before you a very pretty town ... but not the best part. If you walk along the waters edge to the right you will naturally be led to the lakeside promenade which is cantilevered out of the rock face of the shore. Apparently the bequest of a wealthy benefactor, the promenade was constructed to connect to the main part of town by way of the water's edge.

The effect is similar to a trick used by landscape architects in which they heighten the surprise of a spectacular hidden feature by providing an obscure pathway to its location. In this case the promenade leeds you along the lake, under the arched supports of several second story balconies to the center of the town's shoreline. While we enjoyed the morning light from this vantage, I understand that this a favorite evening stroll for many romantics.