Things to do in Varese

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Visit Varese

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Varese travel guide

Estense Palace showing landscape views, a small town or village and a square or plaza

Varese featuring night scenes and street scenes

San Vittore Basilica showing a statue or sculpture, interior views and art

Varese showing street scenes, a square or plaza and night scenes

Masnago Castle featuring interior views and art

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What to do in Varese

Popular places to visit

Lake of Varese, the Mount Rosa on the background

Lake Varese bicycle trail

You can take time to visit Lake Varese bicycle trail during your travels to Varese. Wander the lakeside in this culturally rich area.

Masnago Castle

Set on a hillside overlooking Lake Varese is a historic castle that showcases frescos and paintings from the 15th century to the present day.

Corso Matteotti

During your trip to Varese, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Corso Matteotti.

San Vittore Basilica

Beautiful frescos, Baroque architecture and a huge bell tower are some of the charms of this church dedicated to Varese's patron saint.

Estense Palace

One of the city’s most important public buildings is a stately Baroque palace nicknamed the Versailles of Milan for its grandeur.

Estensi Gardens

One of the city’s most important public buildings is a stately baroque palace nicknamed the Versailles of Milan for its grandeur.

Sacro Monte di Varese

Learn about the local history of Santa Maria del Monte with a stop at Sacro Monte di Varese. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Campo dei Fiori di Varese

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Campo dei Fiori di Varese during your travels in Varese. Wander the gardens and lakeside in the area.

Castiglione Olona

You can find out about the history of Varese with a visit to Castiglione Olona. Wander through the lakeside and picturesque gardens in this culturally rich area.

Areas of Varese

One of the most visited park in Lombardy. A wide park to explore. Infront stands Estense palace.

Downtown Varese

5/5(1 area review)

If you're spending some time in Downtown Varese, Corso Matteotti and San Vittore Basilica are top sights worth seeing.

Estense Palace showing flowers, a garden and a castle

Casbeno

4/5(2 area reviews)

While Casbeno may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Corso Matteotti and San Vittore Basilica.

Historic center and pedestrian area in Varese, an important city in northern Italy. Basilica of San Vittore, among eighteenth-century, nineteenth-century and twentieth-century palaces

Old Town

Old Town is beloved for its panoramic lake views. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Corso Matteotti and San Vittore Basilica.

Aggregazione Rionale 1

While visiting Aggregazione Rionale 1, you might make a stop by sights like Corso Matteotti and San Vittore Basilica.

Sant'Ambrogio

When in Sant'Ambrogio, you can plan a visit to Masnago Castle and Sacro Monte di Varese, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

wide angle view of the Lake Maggiore and the Alps from Mount Campo dei Fiori

Aggregazione Rionale 9

While Aggregazione Rionale 9 may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Castiglione Olona and Lake Varese bicycle trail.

Santa Maria del Monte

Frequently asked questions

Is Varese worth visiting?

From shopping to outdoor adventures and history, there are loads of great things to do in Varese. Make sure to experience the area's blend of unmissable sights, culture and local charm.

How do I spend a day in Varese?

Once you've visited top attractions like Masnago Castle and Estense Palace, spend the rest of your day enjoying the food and retail options in Varese.

What is the top tourist attraction in Varese?

Masnago Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Varese and deserves a spot on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Varese?

Three days will be plenty of time to tick off popular city highlights, such as Masnago Castle, Estense Palace and Villa Menafoglio Litta Panza and Collection. The average stay in Varese is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Milan isn't far away.

Is Varese a walkable city?

It depends on what you want to do and see in Varese. Several top attractions, such as Masnago Castle and Estense Palace, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Varese's neighbourhoods, Aggregazione Rionale 1 is 0.32 kilometres away from downtown, while Downtown Varese is 0.16 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Varese with kids?

If you're looking for attractions and activities for all ages, check out these awesome ideas for what to do in Varese with kids.

What to do in Varese for adults?

Le Cappelle and Collegiata Museum are just two of the things to do in Varese. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.

Are there free things to do in Varese?

In Varese, Lake Varese bicycle trail is a popular spot for anyone looking to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a top way to learn about the best free things to do in Varese.