2 days in Varenna

Varenna is a place where you can relax and do nothing if you want. Sit by the lake with a drink and just chill. We took the ferry to Belaggio, very nice town, but busier and more touristy than Varenna.

We took the mid-lake ferry for a day out from Varenna on our last trip. We went to Villa Carlotta and toured the villa and gardens. We also visited Bellagio for a stroll around town and breakfast. You can ride the ferry to Villa Balbianello as well but it's about a 10-15 minute walk to the villa. The second day, we just stayed around Varenna and relaxed.

The whole point of going to Varenna is, as Rick says, to see how low you can get your pulse. Wander around Varenna, take the ferry to Menaggio and Bellagio and explore them, maybe pay to see a garden or villa. I had two nights in Varenna, and had a great time doing these things (although I didn't get to Menaggio, and didn't care for Bellagio outside of the gardens). If you looking for more "turnstile attractions," the area around Varenna is short on these - head to Milan instead.

Rick really covers Varenna and Bellagio well in his Italy book.

A highlight of our stay in Varenna was a cooking class at nearby Il Caminetto. They will pick you up & bring you back to Varenna. Fun, great food, a wonderful day. Reserve well in advance.

Hey, I thought I was the only Carroll on this site! Anyway, we spent two nights in Varenna two years ago. On our one full day we walked up to the castle on the hill, then took the ferry over to Bellagio and walked around. The ferry ride was sublime, and I wouldn't have minded more time on the water. That said, I was satisfied with two nights.

lol I bet I'm the only female Carroll!!! Thanks for sharing your trip information. We'll be there in late May and now just hoping that it's not raining!