Attractions and Places To See in Varese - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Varese include historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and cultural sites. Often referred to as the "Garden City," Varese is situated amidst lakes and pre-Alpine hills in northern Italy's Lombardy region. The area features several UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offers diverse points of interest for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see in Varese
- The most popular attractions is Panperduto Dam, a man-made monument that marks the birth of the Naviglio and Villoresi canals. It is one of the most important hydraulic junctions in Lombardy.
- Another must-see spot is Sacro Monte of Varese and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte, a religious building and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site features 14 Baroque chapels along a cobbled route, culminating in a sanctuary with panoramic views of the Lombard plain and surrounding lakes.
- Visitors also love Lake Comabbio, a lake offering scenic views and direct access to a bike path. It is considered an oasis of beauty and peace.
- Varese is known for its historical sites, natural lakes, and cycle paths. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, from ancient monuments to tranquil natural reserves.
- The attractions in Varese are appreciated by the komoot community, with 880 upvotes and 314 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Panperduto Dam
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Lakeside picnic area on Lake Varese
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Olona Valley Cycle Path
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Lake Comabbio
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Lake Varese
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Valmorea Railway Cycle Path (Valle Olona Cycle Path)
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Sacro Monte of Varese and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte
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View from Sasso del Ferro
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Lake Varese cycle path
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Valle Olona cycle path in Castellanza
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Popular around Varese
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Tips from the Community
The fact that it is a pilgrimage site does not exclude appropriate clothing, especially footwear; hiking shoes are recommended, even low-cut ones, as long as they have a good sole: you walk on cobblestones and, if it rains, the stones become slippery!
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The Pista Ciclopedonale della Valle Olona, starting from Castellanza, mainly follows the bank of the Olona River along consortium roads to Solbiate Olona, remaining on the other side of the Valley with respect to the track of the former Valmorea Railway.
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Getting to the top is exciting.
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You should see a fantastic path and a great view
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You approach the route of the former Valmorea Railway, with its disused station and enter the cycle path that heads towards the real Gurone Dam, a structure 12 metres high above the river level and 156 metres long, built between 2004 and 2009 and capable of generating a reservoir of more than a million cubic metres. The construction was necessary because this stretch of the valley has always been subject to flooding from the Olona (around 70 have been recorded since the 15th century), such as the most recent ones in 1995 and 2002. The cycle path now climbs along its embankments with an almost linear route and a gradient of almost 12%, built in this way so as not to interfere with the structure of the dam and its hydraulic characteristics. Once you reach the top, be careful on the descent. After reaching the closest point to the river, you start following the railway again, of which you can see sections of tracks in the woods. Now on the right we have the Pedemontana motorway and you cycle in one of the tunnels created during its construction. You can now reach the small public garden equipped with a rack with e-bike charging and a self-repair kit or, keeping to the left at the roundabout and crossing the provincial road, you head south. We are in the Lozza plain, which you cross on the side of the railway embankment with a long straight stretch before arriving at a narrow peninsula formed on the left by the Olona and on the right by the Selvagna stream. After crossing the stream, the path goes to the side of the provincial road to enter Castiglione Olona. On the right, the railway system of the former station opens up, where you can still see some carriages. At the crossing, keep left to continue on the cycle path, while instead you will go to the right to reach the historic village.
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Beautiful cycle path along the Olona river
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prominent natural attractions in Varese?
Varese, known as the "Garden City," offers several beautiful natural attractions. Key among them are Lake Varese, which features a well-marked cycle path around its perimeter, and Lake Comabbio, an oasis of beauty and peace also with direct access to a bike path. The Campo dei Fiori Regional Park provides numerous trails through deciduous forests, offering spectacular views. Nearby, you can also find Lake Maggiore and the Brabbia Swamp Nature Reserve.
Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Varese?
Yes, Varese is home to significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The most notable is Sacro Monte di Varese, a pilgrimage site featuring 14 Baroque chapels leading to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte. Additionally, the Isolino Virginia, an islet on Lake Varese, is a UNESCO site with an ancient Neolithic pile-dwelling settlement, and the Archaeological Park of Castelseprio is also a World Heritage Site.
What historical and cultural sites should I visit in Varese?
Beyond the Sacro Monte, Varese boasts several historical and cultural gems. Explore the 18th-century Palazzo Estense and its exquisite Italian-style gardens, or visit Villa Panza, known for its contemporary American art collection. Masnago Castle hides beautiful 14th-century frescoes and houses the Civic Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. The historic center of Varese itself offers a maze of pedestrian streets and elegant squares.
Are there good cycling routes in Varese?
Varese is excellent for cycling. The Lake Varese Cycle Path is a popular choice, offering picturesque views and a flat ride. Lake Comabbio also has a dedicated bike path. For those seeking more varied terrain, the Valmorea Railway Cycle Path (Valle Olona Cycle Path) provides a scenic route. You can find more detailed cycling routes, including options around Lake Maggiore and Campo dei Fiori, in the Road Cycling Routes in Varese guide.
How can I reach Sacro Monte di Varese, and what can I expect there?
Sacro Monte di Varese is accessible by car, bus, or funicular. The funicular operates on weekends, connecting the Vellone valley with the village. The site features a two-kilometer cobbled route with 14 Baroque chapels depicting the Mysteries of the Rosary, culminating at the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte. The small medieval village offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Lombard plain and surrounding lakes, along with local culinary specialties.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Varese?
Yes, Varese offers several family-friendly options. The cycle paths around Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio are suitable for all ages. The Panperduto Dam is an interesting man-made monument with easy routes. Many parks and gardens, such as the Estensi Gardens and Villa Toeplitz, provide pleasant spaces for families to relax and explore. The Caldana Sculpture Trail within Campo dei Fiori Regional Park is also popular with families.
Where can I find the best viewpoints in Varese?
For stunning vistas, head to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte at Sacro Monte di Varese, which offers panoramic views of the Lombard plain and surrounding lakes. Another excellent spot is the View from Sasso del Ferro. Many points along the cycle paths of Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio also provide picturesque lake views, such as the Lakeside picnic area on Lake Varese.
What outdoor activities can I do near Varese's attractions?
Varese and its surroundings are ideal for various outdoor activities. Besides cycling around the lakes, you can enjoy hiking in the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park, which offers numerous trails. For runners, there are dedicated Running Trails in Varese, including loops around Lake Comabbio. You can also find specific Waterfall hikes in Varese, such as to the Froda Waterfall.
Are there any unique or hidden gems to discover in Varese?
Varese holds several unique spots. The Icehouses of Cazzago Brabbia, near Lake Varese, are distinctive trulli-like structures. The Cloister of Voltorre, a 12th-century portico near Gavirate, is an admirable example of Lombard Romanesque architecture. Castiglione Olona is an enchanting medieval village known for its artistic heritage, including frescoes by Paolo Schiavo. The striking Santa Caterina del Sasso hermitage, perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Maggiore, offers a profound atmosphere of spirituality.
What is the best time of year to visit Varese for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Varese for outdoor activities is generally from spring to early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant for cycling around the lakes, hiking in the parks, and exploring historical sites. Summer offers warm temperatures ideal for water activities on the lakes, while spring and autumn provide milder weather and beautiful natural scenery, especially with the changing foliage.
Can I find easy hiking trails in Varese?
Yes, Varese offers easy hiking options suitable for various fitness levels. The paths around Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio are generally flat and accessible. Within the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park, there are numerous trails, some of which are less strenuous. For specific easy hiking routes, you can check the Waterfall hikes in Varese guide, which includes trails like The Froda Waterfall and Ferrera Waterfalls Loop.
Are there dog-friendly walking options in Varese?
Many of Varese's natural areas are suitable for dog walking. The cycle paths around Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio are popular for walks with pets. The Campo dei Fiori Regional Park also offers numerous trails where dogs are generally welcome, though it's always advisable to keep them on a leash and check local regulations for specific areas.
Most popular routes in Varese
Most popular attractions in Varese
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