3 day itinerary for Varese

Itinerary

Varese is a charming city in northern Italy, surrounded by beautiful lakes and mountains, and it has a welcoming atmosphere. Let’s dive into a fabulous 3-day itinerary that embraces the local culture, stunning scenery, and a sprinkle of LGBTQ+ friendliness!

## Day 1: Explore the City and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious Italian breakfast at a local café. Try a cornetto (Italian croissant) and a cappuccino. Café Caffè Italia is a great spot to soak in the local vibe.

• Visit the Sacro Monte di Varese: After breakfast, head to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Sacro Monte. It’s a beautiful hilltop with chapels and stunning views of the surrounding area. The walk up is lovely, and you can take your time exploring the chapels.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Ristorante Il Cantuccio: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at this cozy restaurant. Try some local specialties like risotto or polenta.

• Explore the Villa Panza: After lunch, visit Villa Panza, a stunning villa with beautiful gardens and contemporary art exhibitions. The combination of art and nature is simply delightful!

Evening:

• Dinner at Ristorante Da Giacomo: Treat yourself to a lovely dinner at this restaurant known for its warm atmosphere and delicious Italian cuisine.

• Night Out: Check out the local LGBTQ+ scene! While Varese may not have a large gay nightlife, you can find friendly bars and clubs in nearby Milan, which is just a short train ride away. Consider heading to Milan for a night out at places like “Plastic” or “The Club.”

## Day 2: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at Pasticceria Pavesi: Indulge in some pastries and coffee at this local bakery. Their pastries are to die for!

• Visit Lake Varese: Spend your morning at Lake Varese. You can rent a bike and cycle around the lake or take a leisurely walk. The views are breathtaking, and it’s a perfect spot for some photos!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Trattoria La Vigna: Enjoy a rustic lunch at this trattoria, where you can savor homemade pasta and local wines.

• Relax at the Giardini Estensi: After lunch, head to the beautiful Estensi Gardens. It’s a lovely place to relax, have a picnic, or just enjoy the scenery. Bring a book or simply people-watch!

Evening:

• Dinner at Osteria dei Lazzaroni: This charming osteria offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious traditional dishes.

• Cultural Evening: Check if there are any local events or performances happening in Varese. Sometimes, there are concerts or art exhibitions that can be a great way to mingle and meet new people.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions

Morning:

• Breakfast at your Hotel or Local Café: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast to fuel up for the day.

• ## Day Trip to the Borromean Islands: Take a ferry from Varese to the stunning Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore. Isola Bella is famous for its beautiful gardens and palace, while Isola dei Pescatori offers charming streets and local eateries.

Afternoon:

• Lunch on Isola dei Pescatori: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. The views of the lake are simply stunning!

• Explore the Islands: Spend the afternoon exploring the islands. Don’t forget to take lots of photos and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Evening:

• Return to Varese: Head back to Varese in the evening.

• Farewell Dinner at Ristorante Il Cantuccio: End your trip with a lovely dinner at your favorite spot from ## Day 1 or try somewhere new!

• Relax and Reflect: Spend your last evening enjoying a gelato while strolling through the city, reflecting on your wonderful trip!

And there you have it! A fabulous 3-day itinerary in Varese that combines culture, nature, and a touch of adventure. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to embrace the local charm and warmth! 🌈✨