No matter how carefully I pronounce it (vah-RAYN-nah), Italians inevitably reply, "Oh, you mean 
Verona." But I don't. Varenna is a lovely little town on the eastern shore of Lake Como, "la perla del Lago di Como" (the pearl of Lake Como). Less than an hour from Milan by train, Varenna is a true gem, and the perfect beginning for our Treasures and Pleasures of Italy Tour.
After a long trans-Atlantic flight and a night in Milan, we'll head up to Varenna to relax, get over 
any jet lag, and enjoy la dolce vita at its best. Here you'll find incredible views, excellent food and wine, and fun shopping. We know a fantastic jewelry store where you can find both inexpensive gifts and gorgeous pieces for yourself. I bought my teenage daughter a couple of necklaces that she loves--and actually wears--and Karen bought a stunning contemporary silver bracelet.
There are formal gardens to stroll, a 14th century church to visit, and cafes where you can relax and sip a glass of wine on a sunny afternoon. You can walk along the shore and photograph
the Alps in the distance or gaze across the lake at the twinkling lights of nearby villages in the evening.
You can also explore Lake Como and its other towns by ferry boat. The famous resort town of the rich and famous, Bellagio,(photo on left) is right across the lake.We'll spend a pleasant afternoon there, exploring its winding streets and trendy,but surprisingly affordable shops. There are especially good buys in Italian knits and silk goods.
Or, if you prefer, you can tour one of the magnificent historic villas around Lak
e Como, like the impressive Villa Carlotta pictured here on the right.
We enjoy bustling Bellagio, but are always happy to hop on the ferry and head back to peaceful, beautiful Varenna. We feel that a few days of la dolce vita in this charming spot is the perfect pleasure to begin our tour before we explore the Renaissance treasures of Florence.
Click on this link to learn more about Varenna ; it's an excellent website put together by the tourist association with lots of information and photos.
