Varenna is a scenic village known for its beautiful location by Lake Como. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're eating the delicious cuisine, hiking in nature, or taking in the beauty, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Varenna that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Varenna?
A typical traveler spends $238 (€203) per day on a trip to Varenna. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Varenna based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $107 (€91) on meals
- $40 (€34) on local transportation
- $202 (€172) on hotels
A one-week trip to Varenna for two people costs, on average, $3,334 (€2,842). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,667
€1,421
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$3,334
€2,842
-
One Month
Per person
$7,145
€6,090
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,334
€2,842
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,668
€5,684
-
One Month
For a couple
$14,289
€12,180
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Varenna cost?
A one week trip to Varenna usually costs around $1,667 (€1,421) for one person and $3,334 (€2,842) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Varenna on average costs around $3,334 (€2,842) for one person and $6,668 (€5,684) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Varenna will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Varenna on average costs around $7,145 (€6,090) for one person and $14,289 (€12,180) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Varenna expensive to visit?
In Varenna, budget travelers spend $104 (€89) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $238 (€203) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $453 (€387) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Varenna.
Varenna is a popular village that draws numerous visitors, each showcasing different travel styles and spending habits. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Varenna can become quite costly if you let it, but there are ways to save money, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Varenna is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Glasgow or Leipzig.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Varenna Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Varenna?
The average Varenna trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Varenna travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Varenna cost?
Varenna on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$44
(€38)
|
$101
(€86)
|
$191
(€163)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$18
(€15)
|
$40
(€34)
|
$77
(€66)
|
|
Food2
|
$47
(€40)
|
$107
(€91)
|
$205
(€175)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$17
(€15)
|
$39
(€34)
|
$75
(€64)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$6-18
(€5-15)
|
$13-40
(€11-34)
|
$26-77
(€22-66)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Varenna on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.
The Truth on Budget Travel
While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $104 per day that backpackers often spend.
Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.
Food is a major draw for all kinds of visitors to Varenna, but budget travelers frequently rely on street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which means they might miss out on the amazing local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or a family on a fun getaway, you might want to choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at well-liked restaurants, and visit the key museums and attractions that come with entry fees. Many who visit Varenna will seek to enjoy the major attractions, museums, and iconic landmarks. Most activities are not free, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to plan on a daily budget of about $238 per person, per day.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
For a trip that encompasses every convenience with outstanding service, get ready for a daily cost nearing $453. To experience nicer hotels, enjoy award-winning cuisine, indulge in extravagant outings, and use taxis or private drivers for your journeys in the village, be prepared for premium pricing.
Accommodation Budget in Varenna
Hotel rates in Varenna vary a lot, especially between budget and luxury options. Peak season (summer) brings higher prices, with rates rising from an off-season averages of $280 to $522. Expect prices to range from $154 for budget hotels to $1,239 for luxury. Hostels, particularly dorms, are cheaper. To save money, travel off-season or book early.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Varenna for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $202 (€172). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $101 (€86) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Varenna? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Varenna include:
- Bed & Breakfast il Bolentino Varenna starting at $95
- Albergo Milano starting at $181
- Albergo Del Sole Varenna starting at $164
- Tosca House starting at $120
- Orange House Varenna starting at $105
Thanks to Varenna's great public transit, staying outside the village is an option to save on accommodation, but be prepared for the trade-off of extra transportation costs.
If you avoid summer and go during the low or shoulder season, you'll find better hotel deals and fewer tourists.
Many enjoy the charm of walking through Varenna, so aim for a central lodging option. However, this may lead to higher accommodation rates.
Transportation Budget in Varenna
Varenna has a solid public transit system that covers many major attractions. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere. If you're looking to save time and money, public transit is a great choice as long as it's close to your destination. Taxis and rideshares are also available throughout town.
Visitors who like to explore on foot will enjoy their time in Varenna. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (excellent)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $40 (€34) per person, per day, on local transportation in Varenna. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Varenna is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$40
€34
As the village of Varenna is so small, most destinations can be reached by foot. However, there are a few rental companies for both bikes and cars if you prefer. If you are looking to explore beyond Varenna to such cities like Menaggio, Griante, and Bellagio, it is best to take a ferry across Lake Como. Not only are the tickets relatively cheap, but the view of the lake is simply to-die-for. To far-reaching destinations, take the train, though it should be advised that tickets cannot be bought at the station. You can either buy the tickets on the train itself or at the nearest travel office. Get the most of Varenna while you are there!
Check that your hotel has accessible parking if you're planning on driving.
How much does it cost to go to Varenna? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Varenna will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Varenna
Don't miss the chance to experience the world-class cuisine in Varenna. Spend some time at local dining spots to taste their renowned dishes. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Varenna can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Varenna is $107 (€91) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$107
€91
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Varenna is around $107 (€91) per person, with previous travelers spending from $47 to $205. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Varenna are as follows:
- Breakfast: $11 to $32
- Lunch: $16 to $43
- Dinner: $32 to $75
- Coffee: $9
- Fast Food or Street Food: $16
An eclectic restaurant with a warm, friendly air, Ristorante Borgovino opened in 2010 and has not looked back since. With its cozy atmosphere, you will feel right at home at Borgovino. The restaurant is small, containing no more than seven tables inside and two tables outside, but offers a simply sublime view of Lake Como. Borgovino wishes to bring diversity to its menu while making use of fresh, local ingredients. From seafood to vegetarian, Ristorante Borgovino has an extensive catalogue of dishes that will leave your mouth watering. Borgovino also has a diverse list of wines that are selected from the finest, most favorable cellars. So while you may be baffled by the food menu of Ristorante Borgovino, you will not know how to begin their wine-tasting menu. Some of their dishes include risotto with fried fillets of perch fish, risotto with funghi porcini and taleggio cheese, and crepes with bacon and spicy tomato sauce, Sliced fillet of beef with funghi porcini sauce, and grilled filets of whitefish from lake.
Many hotels provide breakfast at no additional cost, while others charge extra. The quality and price can vary widely from hotel to hotel. Knowing this ahead of time can help you decide if you should budget more. You might find the hotel's buffet is a worthwhile investment, or perhaps a nearby bakery or cafe could be a cheaper alternative.
You can cut costs and soak in the views by having a picnic. Swing by a local grocery store or market, pick up some fresh goodies, and head to a lovely park or picturesque location to savor your meal.
Bring a water bottle to avoid frequent drink purchases. It's also a sustainable choice.
Thinking about a tour? Check which meals are included beforehand. You might need to budget for some meals on your own, which can add to your expenses.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Varenna
Tourists can't resist Varenna, especially for its well-known food, romance, hiking, and museums and attractions.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Varenna typically cost an average of $39 (€34) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$39
€34
Get a taste of Italian history and scenery by visiting the Villa Monastero. A unique treasure that has shone so brightly on the shores of Lake Como, the Villa Monastero includes a house museum as well as a botanical garden. Since the 18th century, many famous aristocrats and other members of the fine Italian gentry often stayed in this luxurious villa. With over 14 rooms that are completely furnished, the Villa Monastero was named a museum in 2004. The Villa Monastero also works a conference center where, in 1954, the Nobel prize winner Enrico Fermi was found working. Besides the villa's exquisite architecture, the botanical garden that surrounds it is even more spellbinding. Housing incredibly rare botanic species, the garden features a system of terraces, mirroring the elegant design of the villa. With over 1,000 new plant species found within this one garden, it is truly a sight to behold. There are also many tours and learning activities visitors can participate in to fully grasp the history of the villa and biodiversity of its garden. Tickets solely for the garden run at most € 5.00 and tickets for both the garden and Villa Monastero run for about € 8.00. Hours of operation vary for both exhibits so be sure to consult Villa Monastero's website before you visit. Explore the sophistication of Italian wealth in the Villa Monastero!
Though the village of Varenna is truly a treat of Northern Italy, one must not forget the blue waters that await on the outskirts of town. There are two beaches in Varenna that are equal in elegance and entertainment: Lido di Varenna-Perledo and Fiumelatte Beach. Lido di Varenna-Perledo is a beach that actually borders on the neighboring town of Perledo. This sandy beach is equipped with sun beds, deckchairs, and a boat dock for all your sunbathing purposes. Moreover, if you find yourself getting somewhat hungry amidst all the swimming and soothing, there is a complementary restobar located on the beach. However, unlike Lido di Varenna-Perledo, Fiumelatte Beach holds free entry. Located within a small neighborhood of Varenna, Fiumelatte Beach comprises of shores both stony and sandy. Wherever you decide, you'll be sure to have some fun in the sun!
Hiking:
The hiking trails near Varenna are amazing. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.
A nice way to explore destinations in Varenna is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Lake Como: Sailing Boat Tour with Aperitivo and Prosecco for $1,478 details
- Lecco: Sunset Shared Boat Tour with a Prosecco Aperitif for $340 details
Nightlife Budget in Varenna
The nightlife in Varenna tends to be quite calm and laid-back. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $27 (€23) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Varenna per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$27
€23
Enjoying the nightlife is always a highlight, but cutting back on drinks can really help you save money on your travels.
Travel cost data last updated: Aug 7, 2025
Traveling in Varenna
Varenna village, Lake Como, Italy
A golden light cascades from the heavens, bathing the misty blue mountains in a honey haze. The shivering waters of Lake Como blend the gentle blues and yellows of the sky to a tea rose pink that sits under white sailboats. A quaint village hustled around lush gardens, Varenna, Italy is an attractive fishing village that dates back to the eleventh century. Founded in 769 AD by fisherman, the town was originally destroyed in 1126 AD by the rival town Como, only to be restored refugees from the Isola Comacina whose town was also destroyed. Located on the eastern shore of the lake in the province of Lecco, Varenna is filled with a romantic air from its old Italian fisherman houses to the picturesque lanes. Unlike the towns of Bellagio or Milan, Varenna holds a particular authenticity to Italian culture without the burdens of tourist-ridden streets and hotel-packed areas. As Lake Como works as the main attraction of Varenna, the village provides its visitors with a wide array of entertainment on its pebbly beaches. Besides this, Varenna is also known for its exquisite gardens of two villas, Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi. Besides this, Varenna also has museums just waiting to be explored. Take a tranquil retreat to Varenna!
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.