Born from an extraordinary concentration of natural and cultural heritage — 7 lakes, a national park, and 4 UNESCO sites packed into just a few square kilometers — Varese has earned its nickname 'garden city' over millennia, offering you the chance to reconnect with nature, history, and the outdoors in a landscape suspended between green and blue. It is no coincidence that the famous Stendhal syndrome took place here.
Varese is a city on a human scale, welcoming and collected, able to surprise with its elegant history and authentic atmosphere. Start your journey on foot in the heart of the historic center and let us guide you step by step.
It begins at Montegrappa Square, one of the central squares in the rationalist style. Here towers the Littoria Tower at over 74 meters: it is the second tallest building in the city. The square was built in the 1920s to celebrate Varese's election as provincial capital. It was once a bustling grain exchange center.
Continue to the majestic Basilica of San Vittore and admire the Bernascone Bell Tower, known for its elegance and vertical soaring. If you look closely, you might notice cannon marks — a reminder of the battle Garibaldi won.
Glide through the downtown streets to Giovine Italia Square, where the social theater once stood. Today it is one of the city's liveliest squares, perfect for a break.
After lunch, head to Villa Panza, home to one of the most important contemporary art collections in Italy, set in a quiet, green setting. Highlight: environmental installations of light and color that excite.
Visit the Broletto, former grain market and municipal seat. Then stroll through the Gardens of Palazzo Estense: ancient trees, rare plants and scenery that changes with the seasons. Conclude your itinerary in Piazza della Motta, where the ancient tradition of the Bonfire is held every year: an evocative event that celebrates the spirit of Varese.
Tips for Day 1
Palace Grand Hotel
Palace Grand Hotel in Varese is one of the highest expressions of Art Nouveau style and the charm that hovered in the surrounding area at the time. It has a story of great opportunity and the drama of the war, where it was converted to a hospital. Treat yourself to a room with a view — with the new management this hotel has regained the glitz it deserved. You won't miss a good dinner and good evening drinks.
Check availability on Booking.com →Compare on Trip.com →Just a few kilometers from downtown, the Sacro Monte of Varese awaits you: a spiritual and evocative place, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walk up along the historic Via Sacra (about 2 km) dotted with 14 chapels surrounded by greenery, ideal for a meditative walk — or drive to Piazzale Pogliaghi for more convenient access to the ancient village.
Once you reach the top, delve into the old village. Its stone alleys and quiet corners will make you feel like you're in another era. Also explore it in the evening, when darkness falls: the atmosphere is magical and intimate.
The spiritual highlight of the route. Don't miss the crypt — mysterious and fascinating, a true underground jewel — along with the Shrine Museum, which preserves treasures of art and devotion.
A unique place to admire works of art collected by the artist, including the original cast of the Door of the Duomo in Milan.
From the Astronomical Observatory, the view of the Po Valley is so spectacular — it is breathtaking. From Piazzale Pogliaghi, hiking enthusiasts can also access the scenic, nature-filled Trail 10.
Tips for Day 2
Al Borducan
More than 100 years ago, during the city's golden age, it was all a coming and going of elegance and good manners. Bold-looking gentlemen went out of their way to welcome their beautiful ladies by kissing their hands. In the oval room you can still hear a jazz background and the echo of chatter between de facto couples, lovers and entrepreneurs busy making millionaire deals. All these people, so different, had one thing in common: a low glass, an ice cube with the liqueur produced on site whose recipe is still a secret today — Borducan. The young management has dusted off history to adapt it to the present and offer you a romantic and historic stay in the shadow of the only true master of the place, who stands taller than everyone else, silent and mysterious.
Check availability on Booking.com →Compare on Trip.com →Leave the city center behind and immerse yourself in a mix of ancient history and breathtaking nature, perfect for a day of discovery — and relaxation!
At first glance it may look like a simple ruin, but the 33-meter-high Velate Tower is one of the last vestiges of 11th-century defensive architecture. Once a lookout tower, it tells the military and strategic history of a border territory.
Head down to Lake Varese, beloved by sportsmen, birdwatchers and landscape lovers. Here Mount Rosa frames a body of water full of life. The lake tour (about 25 km) is perfect for everyone, including families or beginners — you might spot grey herons, coots or even swans as you pass through forests, piers and ever-changing landscapes.
With any luck and favorable weather, you could also make it to picturesque Virginia Island: a unique archaeological site with remains of prehistoric pile dwellings.
Tips for Day 3
Hotel Vecchia Riva
Check in at Hotel Vecchia Riva, located just steps from the lake. Then leave the car and rent a bike (muscle or electric) to experience the route in its most authentic and sustainable form. On the way back, don't miss a pint at Unibirra — one of Italy's most award-winning breweries.
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