- Must visit
Villa Monastero Museum House
Historic villa interiors with period furnishings and decorative collections inside one of Varenna’s most famous lakeside estates. It combines art, architecture, and lake views, making it a standout文化
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna
Showing times and prices for Jun 03
Cheapest price
$33
Average price
$38
Fastest journey
5 h 43 m
Average duration
6 h 23 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
293 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna will cost around $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Florence Santa Maria Novella for Varenna on Wed, Jun 03, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 03 the direct trains cover the 293 km distance in an average of 6 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 43 m .
On Wed, Jun 03 the slowest trains will take 6 h 52 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
7:21 AM6h03Florence Santa Maria Novella1:24 PMVarenna$331One-way0 transfers- 6:10 PM5h43Florence Santa Maria Novella11:53 PMVarenna$351One-way0 transfers
2:32 AM6h52Florence Santa Maria Novella9:24 AMVarenna$421One-way0 transfers- 3:32 AM6h52Florence Santa Maria Novella10:24 AMVarenna$431One-way0 transfers
- 6:10 PM5h43Florence Santa Maria Novella11:53 PMVarenna$351One-way0 transfers
- 7:21 AM6h03Florence Santa Maria Novella1:24 PMVarenna$331One-way0 transfers
- 3:32 AM6h52Florence Santa Maria Novella10:24 AMVarenna$431One-way0 transfers
- 2:32 AM6h52Florence Santa Maria Novella9:24 AMVarenna$421One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $12, and a train costs an average of $29.
Distance: 182 miles (293 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$38 Average price | $27 Average price Cheapest | $109 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 4h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m Average total duration 4h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).
This is compared to other travel options from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna:
A bus is $11 (€9) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna costing on average $38 (€31).
The fastest way to travel from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna is by train with an average journey time of 4h 21m.
Other travel options to Varenna take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Florence Santa Maria Novella and Varenna including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with Italo.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna train times
The table below shows live departures for Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, June 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:32 AM Florence Santa Maria Novella | 6h52 | 9:24 AM Varenna | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:32 AM Florence Santa Maria Novella | 6h52 | 10:24 AM Varenna | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:21 AM Florence Santa Maria Novella | 6h03 | 1:24 PM Varenna | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:10 PM Florence Santa Maria Novella | 5h43 | 11:53 PM Varenna | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Wed
Jun 03
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Why should you book Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna trains with Omio?
Frecciarossa as well as Italo, Regionale, Intercity and more offer trains services from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna.
Why book with Omio vs Frecciarossa?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Frecciarossa, but also compare tickets for the likes of Italo, Regionale or Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Frecciarossa with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna.
Why book with Omio over Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna
ItalyItaly
Trains from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna run on average 17 times per day, taking around 4h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€23) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:20, the last at 18:10. The fastest train covers the 182 miles (293 km) distance in 5h 43m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $12 (€10)
Distance 182 miles (293 km) |
Average train duration 4h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€23) |
Trains per day 17 |
Fastest train 5h 43m |
First train 2:20 AM |
Last train 6:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $12 (€10)
Train companies: Frecciarossa, Italo, Regionale, Intercity from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna trainsFrecciarossa, Italo, Regionale, Intercity trains will get you between Florence Santa Maria Novella and Varenna from $12 (€10). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Frecciarossa
About
Step on board a Frecciarossa train and relax as you travel across Italy. Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa high-speed trains make around 200 connections across the country each day and are renowned for their comfort, speed, and reduced environmental impact. Reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h), they connect major destinations such as Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples quickly and efficiently. When booking your Frecciarossa journey, you can choose between four classes: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. While each class offers different levels of comfort, all provide free Wi-Fi access, power outlets, air conditioning, bathrooms, luggage storage, onboard entertainment, and restaurant and bar services. Ticket options include Super Economy, Economy, and Base, making it easy to find the right balance of comfort and price for your trip.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 43m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€80)
Frecciarossa frequency
14 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag and 1 suitcase per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at carriage ends, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, bar service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in Executive class
Seat reservation
Included in Executive class, optional fee for other classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals free
Quiet zone
Italo
About
Italo is Italy’s private high-speed train service operated by Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV), connecting major cities such as Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, Turin, Bologna, and Salerno. Its fleet includes the Italo AGV 575, capable of speeds up to 186 mph (300 km/h), and the eco-friendly Italo EVO, which reaches up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose from four classes — Smart, Comfort, Prima, and Club Executive — all offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining leather seats, footrests, bathrooms, snack machines, and Italo Live entertainment with movies, music, and games. Italo offers three fare types — Low Cost, Economy, and Flex — providing different levels of price and flexibility. Popular routes include Rome–Milan, Rome–Florence, and Milan–Turin, making Italo a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to travel around Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 16m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
Italo frequency
15 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage (max 55x35x25cm) and 1 piece of luggage (max 75x53x30cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar service available in most trains with drinks and light refreshments. Welcome service in Prima and Club Executive classes
Seat reservation
Included in Prima and Club Executive. Optional extra cost in Smart and Comfort
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Regionale
About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 52m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€30)
Regionale frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Intercity
About
Trenitalia Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Italian national railway company, Trenitalia. It operates throughout the country, with services running from early morning to late evening. The Intercity trains come in two types: the Intercity Plus, which is the fastest and most comfortable, and the Intercity, which is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi, and a bar service. There are several ticket types available, including Standard, Super Economy, and Business. The most popular routes for Trenitalia Intercity are from Rome to Milan, Naples to Florence, and Turin to Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 43m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€23)
Intercity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Varenna
Things to do in Varenna
Discover the best of Varenna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Varenna trip today.
- Recommended
Casa Museo Villa Monastero
The museum route within Villa Monastero, notable for elegant historic rooms and exhibitions tied to the villa’s aristocratic past. Popular with visitors seeking a classic Lake Como cultural stop
- Recommended
Castello di Vezio Exhibition Spaces
The castle sometimes hosts small exhibitions alongside the main historic visit. Worth considering more for the setting than as a dedicated museum, but it adds cultural depth to the experience
- Must visit
Passeggiata degli Innamorati
Varenna’s iconic lakeside walk linking the center with the ferry area. With railings over the water and dramatic mountain views, it is one of the town’s essential strolls
- Must visit
Villa Monastero Botanical Garden
Long lakeside garden with exotic plants, sculptures, and elegant paths. It is one of the most visually striking places in Varenna and highly popular for scenic photos
- Must visit
Villa Cipressi Gardens
Terraced gardens descending toward the lake, known for cypress-lined views and polished landscaping. This is one of Varenna’s most photogenic and widely shared spots
- Gluten-free
Risotto Al Pesce Persico
Creamy risotto topped with lightly fried lake perch, a signature Lake Como dish closely associated with villages such as Varenna.
- Gluten-free
Missoltini
Traditional salted and sun-dried lake shad from Lake Como, usually grilled and served with polenta; a historic local specialty.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Polenta Uncia
Rich polenta enriched with butter, local cheese, garlic, and sage, typical of the Como area mountain-and-lake cuisine.
Ristorante La Vista
Refined hotel restaurant with panoramic lake views, known for elegant Italian dishes and a romantic atmosphere.
Il Cavatappi
Well-known wine bar and restaurant in Varenna, appreciated for local specialties, good wine selection, and intimate setting.
Al Prato
Established lakeside restaurant with polished service, serving Italian and Lake Como dishes in a scenic central location.
Euro
Lake Como is pricier than many small Italian towns, especially near the waterfront, but casual meals and coffee remain manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-18 for a simple lunch or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 25-45 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale lakefront spots.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or covered by a coperto. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for very good service is appreciated. Round up taxis.
MooneyGo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.40
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Varenna-Esino Railway Station, Varenna -> Varenna Ferry Terminal, Varenna
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Regional bus tickets are usually bought before boarding; check validity rules in the operator app or at local sales points.
- Card payment on local buses is not consistently available, so carry a valid ticket or some cash as backup.
FAQs: Trains from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Varenna, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€23), while the average price is around $38 (€31).
The train from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna takes 5h 43m and runs 17 per day.
The first train from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna leaves at 2:20 AM.
The distance by train from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna is 182 miles (293 km).
The last train from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna leaves at 6:10 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna.
Yes, there is a direct train from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Italo.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna.
The cheapest way to get from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna is by bus, with a cost of around $12 (€10).
Yes, the train journey from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Varenna is scenic, offering views of the Tuscan countryside, the lush hills of Emilia-Romagna, and the picturesque landscapes around Lake Como as you approach Varenna.
A day trip from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Varenna is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 43m, covering 182 miles (293 km). There are 16 train trips available per day.
In Varenna, you can explore charming streets with local shops and cafes, take a boat tour on Lake Como for stunning views, and visit the Civic Museum of Ornithology and Natural Sciences. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard or join a cooking class to learn traditional Italian dishes. Key sights include Villa Monastero with its botanical gardens, Castello di Vezio with medieval charm and falconry displays, and the Romanesque Church of San Giorgio. Don't miss the short river Fiumelatte with its milky waters, and the scenic Passeggiata degli Innamorati for leisurely lakeside walks.
For a fulfilling experience in Varenna, plan to stay 2 to 3 days to explore its charming streets, visit Villa Monastero, and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Como.
Yes, you can take the train from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna.
Since both Florence Santa Maria Novella and Varenna are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Varenna include Milan, Bergamo, Lecco, Como, Tirano.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Italy Pass and Interrail Italy Pass are valid on most trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo within Italy, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains, though some restrictions and seat reservation fees may apply.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Varenna, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as ferry docks and popular walking paths. It's also advisable to avoid unofficial taxi services and only use licensed providers. While the town is generally safe, staying vigilant around busy tourist spots helps prevent common scams like overpriced dining or souvenir shops.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna
Florence
Varenna
The major train station for departures in Florence is Firenze Santa Maria Novella. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Firenze Santa Maria Novella for your trip from Florence to Varenna.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free WiFi (30 minutes limit).
Lockers
- Provided by KiPoint and located on the ground floor, on the side of Piazza Adua. Open daily from 06:00 to 23:00.
Dining
- 12oz Coffee Joint
- Casa Maioli
- Don Nino
- Fratelli Cuore
- McDonald´s
- Panella
- Segafredo Zanetti
- Spizzico
- Venchi
- & many more
Accessibility
- Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Mobility assistance is available with the Sala Blu, located next to Platform 1.
Hotel
- Hotel Luxor Florence
- Joy Hotel Florence
- Diplomat Hotel Florence
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Information Desk
- Located inside and outside the station.
Public transit options for Firenze Santa Maria Novella
- Tram lines: T1, T2
- Bus lines: 6, 11, 12, 13, 17, 23, 36, 37, C4
- Train lines: FR, FA, Italo
The major train station for arrivals in Varenna is Varenna-esino. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Varenna-esino for your journey to Varenna from Florence.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available near the station, but spaces are limited.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel Olivedo
- Albergo Milano
- Hotel du Lac
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Station Plan
- The station is a small facility with basic amenities, consisting of two platforms and a main hall for ticketing and waiting.
Public transit options for Varenna-esino
- Bus: Local bus services connect the station to nearby towns
- Ferry: Ferry services available to other towns on Lake Como
Most popular train connections from Florence Santa Maria Novella
More options for your journey from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Varenna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Varenna and Florence Santa Maria Novella
Most popular train connections to Varenna
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