Villa del Balbianello and Varenna from Milan

Milan , Italy

Villa del Balbianello and Varenna from Milan

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About this experience

By train from Milan a day discovering Varenna and the wonderful Villa del Balbianello, you will be able to reach the Villa on board the public boat of the Lake Como Navigation! Once in Lenno, you will reach Villa del Balbianello with a walk of about 30 minutes. Back in Varenna, you will then have the opportunity to visit Villa Monastero with its lush garden, which adjoins the gentle shores of Lake Como, and its house museum, which will tell centuries of history.

Available options

Villa del Balbianello and Varenna from Milan

What's included

Public boat ticket for the route Varenna - Lenno and return.

Regional train ticket, 2nd class from Milano Centrale to Varenna and return

Entrance ticket to Villa del Balbianello - Park only

Entrance ticket for Villa Monastero, house museum + garden

Taxes and service rates.

Detailed itinerary

*Note for the period from 15/06/2025 to 15/09/2025 due to works on the Lecco - Tirano railway line for this route there will be a substitute bus service from Lecco station to reach Varenna station and viceversa.

Varenna is one of the most characteristic places on Lake Como with its walk for lovers, its narrow streets and its fascinating beauty

Stop 2

VILLA DEL BALBIANELLO AND VARENNA FROM MILAN

08:20 Departure with Regional train from Milano Centrale to Lecco
08:59 Arrival at Lecco station
09:05 Departure with sostitutive bus to reach Varenna
09:39 Arrival in Varenna and 1 hour at disposal for visit Varenna
09:56 - 10:55 Departure on public boat for the Varenna - Lenno route
Arrival in Lenno and approx. 30 minutes' walk from Lenno ferry terminal to Villa del Balbianello
Arrival and entrance to Villa del Balbianello Park only and free time for visit
Approx. 30 minutes' walk from Villa del Balbianello to Lenno ferry terminal
14:10 - 15:05 Departure on public boat for the Lenno - Varenna route
2 hours at leisure to visit Villa Monastero and its gardens
17:21 Departure with sostitutive bus from Varenna station to reach Lecco
17:55 Arrival at Lecco station
18:01 Departure from Lecco station with regional train to Milano Centrale
18:43 Arrival at Milano Centrale

Visit the beautiful Villa Monastero in Varenna with its lush botanical garden bordering Lake Como and its museum that tells more than eight centuries of history!

What's not included

Anything not expressly indicated under the heading "includes"

Any tips and personal extras

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 3.0

1 reviews

5★

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This is a self tour please go directly on board of the train. Be there at least 30 minutes before the departure. Enter at the station and look at the board to see which track is your train!

Important notes

We ask to check your e-mail folder few days before the excursion start, you will receive the tickets and vouchers excursion for your booking.

Google maps location: Milano Central Station https://maps.app.goo.gl/HPjkZdht1ACLCN3k6

About Milan

Milan, the vibrant capital of Lombardy, is a city where ancient history meets modern luxury. Known for its fashion, art, and design, Milan is a dynamic metropolis that offers a rich cultural experience and a thriving culinary scene.

Top Attractions

Duomo di Milano

The Milan Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and the third-largest church in the world. It took nearly six centuries to complete and is a symbol of the city.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours €10-€15

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

This historic shopping gallery is one of the world's oldest and most beautiful. It features luxury boutiques, cafes, and the famous mosaic floor of the bull.

Architecture/Shopping 1 hour Free to enter, shopping varies

Santa Maria delle Grazie

This church and convent house Leonardo da Vinci's famous mural, The Last Supper. The painting is a masterpiece of Renaissance art and a must-see for art lovers.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours €10-€15 (advance booking required)

Castello Sforzesco

This medieval castle was built by the Duke of Milan and later renovated by Ludovico Sforza. It houses several museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €5-€10

Teatro alla Scala

One of the world's most famous opera houses, Teatro alla Scala is a symbol of Milan's rich musical heritage. Guided tours are available to explore the historic theater and museum.

Cultural/Entertainment 1 hour €10-€15

Must-Try Local Dishes

Risotto alla Milanese

A creamy saffron risotto, a staple of Milanese cuisine.

Main Course Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian.

Ossobuco

Braised veal shanks, traditionally served with gremolata.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made gluten-free.

Panzerotti

Fried dough pockets filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and other ingredients.

Snack Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Cotoletta alla Milanese

A breaded and fried veal cutlet, similar to schnitzel.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby Alps Cycling along the Navigli canals Aperitivo in Navigli Shopping in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Visiting museums and historic sites Attending opera or ballet performances Boat tours on Lake Como Swimming in Lake Como

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Milan is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Milan is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Be cautious with your belongings and stay alert.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of distractions and common scams

Getting there

By air

Milano Malpensa Airport • 50 km from city center
Milano Linate Airport • 7 km from city center

By train

Milano Centrale, Milano Rogoredo

By bus

Lampugnano Bus Station, San Donato Milanese

Getting around

Public transport

The Milano Metro system consists of four lines (M1, M2, M3, M5) and is efficient and easy to use. It is the quickest way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Brera Navigli Quartiere della Moda Isola

Day trips

Lake Como

50 km • Full day

Lake Como is a stunning alpine lake known for its beautiful villas, gardens, and scenic views. It is a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Bergamo

50 km • Half day

Bergamo is a charming medieval city with a well-preserved old town and a rich history. It offers a mix of historic sites, museums, and local cuisine.

Verona

150 km • Full day

Verona is a romantic city known for its association with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. It offers a mix of historic sites, romantic landmarks, and cultural attractions.

Festivals

Milan Fashion Week • February and September Milan Design Week • April Milan Film Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the Duomo early in the morning to avoid crowds and long queues
Explore the Navigli district in the evening for a vibrant aperitivo experience
Use the ATM Milano app for real-time public transportation schedules and maps
Consider purchasing a Milan Card for discounts on attractions, transportation, and dining
Try local specialties like risotto alla Milanese and panzerotti