How quiet is Varenna? We like to get up early, go get coffee, wander, visit gardens, see architecture. Is there enough to do in Varenna - we go May 3-6, first leg of 17 day trip. Am intrigued by Bellagio but Rick isn't a fan. Also, if stay in Bellagio, how difficult will it be to take the ferry back to Varenna to catch the train to Venice? if not, then I'd stay in Bellagio. any suggestions are appreciated.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32219 posts
Martha, It's not difficult to take the Ferry from Bellagio to Varenna, but I'd recommend staying in Varenna. I've always found it to be fairly quiet. It's a somewhat small town, so there won't be a lot of architecture or gardens, and as I recall Bellagio is about the same. However, it is possible to tour the gardens at Villa Cipressi and Villa Monstero for a small charge. Your Hotel will likely provide breakfast, so you can have your coffee there. One thing you might enjoy in the morning, is a quiet walk along the lakeside promenade in Varenna. There's a bench part way along where you can sit and enjoy the view. There may be a few people wandering about, but it's not generally too crowded. If you need tickets for the trip to Venice (reservations will probably be required), visit the small travel agency just below the station. It's an easy walk from the main piazza. Happy travels!
Posted by
Atlanta, Ga, USA
2023 posts
I agree with Ken regarding staying in Varenna. The monastery garden is a beautiful walk. Bellagio is great for shopping-lots of nice boutiques.
Posted by
Napa, CA
3580 posts
It's been a number of years since I stayed at Lake Como. I discovered that the ferry did not start early enough in the day to get from Menaggio to Varenna in time to catch my train. The same problem probably is true of Bellagio. If your train is later in the day, it may not be a problem. I love all those towns, but Varenna is most convenient for trains. check the ferry schedule. From the ferry in Varenna, it is about a 10 min uphill walk to the train station. In Varenna, I found places for early morning cappuccino and brioche (croissants). Much of the walking is hilly, but a level path runs along the coast in Varenna. Bellagio is picturesque and more hilly.
Posted by
Long Beach, CA, USA
359 posts
you really can't go wront with either choice I personally like Bellagio, has a little more "action" shopping, restaurants... Varenna is lovely too ferry is very easy
Rick does recommend Varenna, I'm a fan of Rick's for sure but he usually goes for the more local village feel and sometimes I want a little more "city" feel
Posted by
OP
Winston-Salem
28 posts
Thank you, one and all. Your experience helps alot. Any opionion or experience with Residence Antico Pozzo in Bellagio? I'm looking at a studio.