Varenna is an attractive village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, looking over the central part of the lake towards Bellagio. Varenna’s picturesque lanes and old fishermen’s houses are unpretentiously appealing, and some visitors prefer the town to its grander neighbours. Although Varenna is a tourist destination, and its pretty waterfront and tiny stone beach fill up with holidaymakers, it has somehow a more authentic air than the other hotel-packed resorts. The main tourist activities in Varenna are relaxing by the lake, and visiting the gardens of two villas, Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi.
Varenna’s tourist information office is alongside the jetty for passenger ferries. A map isn’t really necessary for exploring the village, but you can pick one up here along with any advice you may need. From the ferry jetty in Varenna there is a footway leading around the shore to the right. This brings you to the village’s pretty waterfront, with its characteristic lake harbour, an arcaded walkway and a little stone beach sloping into the water. Although this short stretch of lakeside is a tourist magnet, it is also very charming and a good place to while away half an hour with a cold drink or ice cream sundae.
If the day is not too hot and you are feeling energetic, there are two more distant sights which can be linked up in a walk from the centre of Varenna. Along the lake, past Villa Monastero, is a hamlet called Fiumelatte which is notable for a stream of the same name, meaning ‘Milk-river’, which gushes white and is said to be the ‘shortest river in Italy’. The stream dries up in winter months.
While you are on a holiday in Italy, it is suggested that you visit the Lake Como region and the places of tourist attraction around, like Varenna. It is a good idea to hire a car to take you there from various places in Italy where you have stationed on a holiday.
Driving through the streets can get you to explore some real delights. Hiring a car is the best way to explore the Italian treats and breath taking picturesque Italian valleys and countryside locations. Car Rental Italy provides car rental at economical prices, making your visit to Italy a memorable one.