Things to do in Varese

Activities, attractions and tours

A historic building with a large courtyard surrounded by trees and manicured gardens.
A cobblestone street lined with historic buildings, storefronts, and a pedestrian walkway.
A detailed ceiling with ornate sculptures and frescoes.
A historic square with a prominent clock tower, illuminated buildings, and a bustling crowd.
An art gallery with paintings and sculptures on display.

Things to do

Cantonese dimsum

Cantonese Dimsum Cooking Lesson in Como or Lugano with Chef Ling

€45
per adult
Cantonese Dimsum Cooking Lesson in Como or Lugano with Chef Ling
Lake Como: Adventure day in Spina Verde Regional Park

Lake Como Rebels: Adventure day in Spina Verde Regional Park

€155
per adult
Lake Como Rebels: Adventure day in Spina Verde Regional Park
Locarno and Ascona: Scenic Electric Bike Cycling Tour

Locarno and Ascona: Scenic Electric Bike Cycling Tour

€157
per adult
Locarno and Ascona: Scenic Electric Bike Cycling Tour
Pizza course and tasting on Lake Maggiore

Pizza course and tasting on Lake Maggiore

€110
per adult
Pizza course and tasting on Lake Maggiore
From Milan: Lake Maggiore Day Trip with Borromean Islands

From Milan: Lake Maggiore Day Trip with Borromean Islands

€219
per adult
From Milan: Lake Maggiore Day Trip with Borromean Islands
Italian Cooking Private Class on Lake Maggiore

Italian Cooking Private Class on Lake Maggiore

€130
per adult
Italian Cooking Private Class on Lake Maggiore
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What to do in Varese

Stay near popular Varese attractions

A white building with blue shutters, a stone wall, and a grassy area with benches.

Masnago Castle

9.0/10 (16 reviews)
Masnago Castle's 15th-century frescoes showcase medieval courtly life in the "Room of Pastimes" and "Room of Vices and Virtues." Explore its Civic Museum of Modern Art while enjoying serene views of Lake Varese.
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Where to stay in Varese

Find the best Varese areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Varese
Learn more about Varese
A historic square with a prominent clock tower, illuminated buildings, and a bustling crowd.

Downtown Varese

If you're spending some time in Downtown Varese, Castiglione Olona and San Vittore Basilica are top sights worth seeing.

A historic square with a prominent church, colorful buildings, and a clear sky.

Old Town

Old Town is beloved for its panoramic lake views. Take some time to explore sights in the area like San Vittore Basilica and Corso Matteotti.

A historic building with a red-tiled roof and white shutters, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and trees.

Casbeno

While Casbeno may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Estense Palace and Broletto Courtyard.

A mountainous landscape with a lake, snow-capped peaks, and a distant castle.

Aggregazione Rionale 9

While Aggregazione Rionale 9 may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Castiglione Olona and Lake Varese bicycle trail.

A large pink building with green shutters and a central entrance.

Aggregazione Rionale 1

While visiting Aggregazione Rionale 1, you might make a stop by sights like Estense Palace and Piazza Monte Grappa.

A calm lake with a swan, buoys, and a distant hill with trees and buildings.

Gavirate

Frequently asked questions

Is Varese worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor adventures and history, there are loads of great things to do in Varese. Make sure to experience the area's blend of unmissable sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Varese?
Once you've visited top attractions like Masnago Castle and Estense Palace, spend the rest of your day enjoying the food and retail options in Varese.
What is the top tourist attraction in Varese?
Masnago Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Varese and deserves a spot on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Varese?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off popular city highlights, such as Masnago Castle, Estense Palace and Villa Menafoglio Litta Panza and Collection. The average stay in Varese is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Milan isn't far away.
Is Varese a walkable city?
It depends on what you want to do and see in Varese. Several top attractions, such as Masnago Castle and Estense Palace, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Varese's neighbourhoods, Aggregazione Rionale 1 is 0.32 kilometres away from downtown, while Downtown Varese is 0.16 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Varese with kids?
If you're looking for attractions and activities for all ages, check out these awesome ideas for what to do in Varese with kids.

What to do in Varese for adults?
Le Cappelle and Collegiata Museum are just two of the things to do in Varese. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Varese?
In Varese, Lake Varese bicycle trail is a popular spot for anyone looking to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a top way to learn about the best free things to do in Varese.

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