Things to do in Varese

Activities, attractions and tours

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

Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.

Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.

What to do in Varese

Areas of Varese

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

Downtown Varese

5/5(1 area review)

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

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

Old Town

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

Old Town
Default Image

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 Piazza Monte Grappa.

Aggregazione Rionale 9
Default Image

Casbeno

4/5(2 area reviews)

While visiting Casbeno, you might make a stop by sights like Villa Recalcati and Estensi Gardens.

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

Aggregazione Rionale 1

While visiting Aggregazione Rionale 1, you might make a stop by sights like Estense Palace and Piazza Monte Grappa.

Aggregazione Rionale 1
Default Image

Sant'Ambrogio

When in Sant'Ambrogio, you can plan a visit to Masnago Castle and Sacred Mountain of the Rosary, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Sant'Ambrogio
Photo by Anders Hakstun

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.