Varese
Varese is about 338 km from Geneva Airport, roughly 3 h 50 min by road via the Simplon Pass and Lake Maggiore. Known as the garden city, it lies in the green hills between Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano, with a UNESCO-listed sacred mountain above it and several smaller lakes around it. AirportsTransfers.ch takes you there directly, without the train changes such a route normally needs.
- Distance from GVA: about 338 km by road
- Drive time: around 3 h 50 min
- Border crossing: the route crosses the border into Italy
- Known for: the Sacro Monte, villas and gardens, Lake Varese
- Nearby: Lake Maggiore, Lake Lugano, Malpensa airport
Getting there from Geneva Airport
The route follows Lake Geneva to Montreux, climbs the Rhône valley through Valais to Brig and crosses the Simplon Pass into Italy. From Domodossola it runs south past Lake Maggiore, then east through the province of Varese. Depending on traffic and weather, a route via the Mont Blanc Tunnel and the Po plain is an alternative.
Varese province also contains Milan Malpensa airport. Travellers sometimes fly into Geneva for a better fare or to combine a Swiss visit, and use a transfer for the onward journey; the reverse also works for those flying out of Geneva.
The Sacro Monte and Campo dei Fiori
Above the city, the Sacro Monte di Varese is a pilgrimage route of fourteen chapels built in the 17th century along a cobbled path climbing the mountain. Each chapel holds frescoes and life-size statues depicting the mysteries of the Rosary, and the path ends at the hilltop village of Santa Maria del Monte with its sanctuary. It forms part of the Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy listed by UNESCO.
Higher still, the Campo dei Fiori regional park covers the forested ridge above the city, with walking trails and viewpoints over the lakes and, on clear days, the Alps and the Monte Rosa. The walk up the Sacro Monte and a short continuation onto the ridge make a satisfying half-day.
Villas, gardens and the city centre
Varese earned its nickname through its many villas and parks, built by Milanese families who came here for the cooler summers. The Estense Gardens, laid out in the 18th century around the palace that now houses the town hall, are modelled on formal Italian gardens and open to the public. Villa Panza, on a hill above the centre, is known for its collection of contemporary art, particularly American art of the second half of the 20th century, and for its gardens.
The compact historic centre has arcaded streets, the Basilica of San Vittore with its tall bell tower, and plenty of cafés. Lake Varese, just below the city, is surrounded by a cycle path that is popular in fine weather. The full loop is flat and runs close to the water for most of its length, passing reed beds, small beaches and villages, and bikes can be hired locally. The smaller lakes nearby, such as Comabbio and Monate, are quieter still and good for a swim in summer.
Local food follows Lombard traditions, with risotto, polenta, lake fish and cured meats, and the area is also known for its pastry shops. The hills around the city were once dotted with grand hotels, some now restored, recalling the era when Varese was a fashionable summer resort for the Milanese.
Where to stay and day trips
The city centre is convenient for walking and dining, while villas and hotels on the hills offer gardens and lake views. Visitors on a lakes holiday may prefer to stay on Lake Maggiore or Lake Lugano and visit Varese for the day.
- Lake Maggiore's eastern shore, including Laveno and the Santa Caterina del Sasso hermitage
- Lake Lugano and the Swiss city of Lugano
- Lake Como, about an hour to the east
- Castiglione Olona, a small Renaissance town
- The Isola Virginia archaeological site on Lake Varese
Practical tips
Varese is cooler and greener than Milan, with pleasant summers and misty winters. The Sacro Monte path is steep and cobbled, so wear proper shoes. The area is popular with cyclists, and you will see many on the hill roads. Italy uses the euro, and you should carry ID or a passport, as the route crosses the border; a trip to Lugano takes you back into Switzerland.
On weekends, local visitors head to the Sacro Monte and the lakes, so go early for quieter paths.
Booking your transfer to Varese
Book with AirportsTransfers.ch and see the fixed price for your vehicle before paying online by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. The chauffeur tracks your flight, waits in arrivals with your name on a sign and includes waiting time if you land late. Cyclists can declare bikes at booking so a van is sent; families can ask for child seats; companies can request an invoice. For a transfer between Varese and Geneva in either direction, call or message +41 78 346 56 77.
