The church of San Giorgio, situated in heart of Varenna is a basilica with nave and two aisles, built in the 14th century. Inside there are 15th and 16th century paintings and some 17th and 18th century furnishings. Its façade is enriched by a big fresco portraying Saint Christopher. The most precious work of art it contains is the coloured stone Deposition from the Cross.

Villa Monastero, located on the lakefront, was originally a Cistercian abbey and then become a Patrician residence. Spectacular lakeside promenade leading to Fiumelatte, with alleys, terraces and gardens rich of Mediterranean and tropical essences. Today the villa is a museum and a congress centre.

Next to Villa Monastero is Villa Cipressi, a group of buildings built between 1500 and 1800, with hundred-year-old trees, gardens and terraces that go right down to the shore and the unique botanic pathway. Its name comes from the lovely cypresses that stand in the garden.

The village of Fiumelatte, on Varenna’s boarder is worth a visit. The village is named like this because of its white foam of its seasonal stream, which flows in the spring from a cave to the nearby lake.

The Valley of River Esino represents a good excursion route. The first village you encounter is Perledo, where you can visit the Vezio’s Castle, a well kept fortress with a curious exposition of birds of prey. Continuing on the course you arrive at Esino Lario, 900meteres high up that represents a good starting point for exploring the Grigne Mountains.