- Recommended
Casa Museo di Villa Monastero
House museum within Villa Monastero presenting period interiors, collections, and the villa's history. A strong cultural complement to the celebrated gardens.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 07
Cheapest price on Sep 07
€22
Average ticket price on Sep 07
€22
Fastest journey on Sep 07
4 h 39 m
Average journey duration on Sep 07
4 h 39 m
Trains on Sep 07
1
Distance
186 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna will cost around €22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €22.
Fast trains
On Mon, Sep 07, we found 1 trains from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna, including 1 direct services.
On Mon, Sep 07 the direct trains cover the 186 km distance in an average of 4 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 39 m .
On Mon, Sep 07 the slowest trains will take 4 h 39 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.
5:45 AM4h39Santa Margherita Ligure10:24 AMVarenna€221One-way0 transfers
- 5:45 AM4h39Santa Margherita Ligure10:24 AMVarenna€221One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €21 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 24m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €21, while a train costs an average of €27.
Distance: 115 miles (186 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€27 Average price | €21 Average price Cheapest |
4h 24m Average total duration Fastest 3h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 10m Average total duration 4h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna is a bus with an average price of €21.
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna:
A bus is €6 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna costing on average €27.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna is by train with an average journey time of 3h 54m.
Other travel options to Varenna take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Margherita Ligure and Varenna including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna among Omio's users.
Live departures
Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna trains for tomorrow, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:45 AM Santa Margherita Ligure | 4h39 | 10:24 AM Varenna | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Margherita Ligure 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.
Mon
Sep 07
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna
ItalyItaly
Trains from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €21 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 02:09, the last at 19:35. The fastest train covers the 115 miles (186 km) distance in 3h 13m.
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
Distance 115 miles (186 km) |
Average train duration 3h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price €21 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 3h 13m |
First train 2:09 AM |
Last train 7:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 days |
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
Train companies: Intercity, Regionale from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna trainsIntercity, Regionale trains will get you between Santa Margherita Ligure and Varenna from €21. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Intercity Duration
3h 13m
Cheapest Intercity Price
€22
Intercity frequency
9 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
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 Regionale Duration
3h 32m
Cheapest Regionale Price
€21
Regionale frequency
5 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
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
Museo di Villa Monastero
Historic villa interiors with decorative rooms and art displays inside one of Lake Como's most famous residences. Ideal for architecture and heritage enthusiasts.
- Recommended
Giardini di Villa Cipressi
Botanical and decorative heritage experience in the Villa Cipressi complex, where landscaped terraces and historic structures create an open-air cultural visit.
- Must visit
Passeggiata degli Innamorati
Famous lakeside promenade suspended along the waterfront. Easy, photogenic, and ideal for first views of Varenna's colorful houses and the central lake.
- Must visit
Riva Grande
Old harbor area with boats, pastel façades, and one of Varenna's most photographed perspectives. Best for atmosphere, walking, and sunset views.
- Must visit
Giardini di Villa Cipressi
Terraced botanical gardens descending to the lake, celebrated for cypresses, exotic plants, and elegant viewpoints. One of Varenna's signature scenic walks.
- Vegetarian
Pizzoccheri
Buckwheat pasta ribbons with butter, cabbage, potatoes and local cheese. A classic dish of nearby Valtellina, long loved around Lake Como for hearty alpine comfort.
- Vegetarian
Sciatt
Small buckwheat dumplings mixed with greens and bread, then baked with butter and cheese. Traditional mountain fare eaten across the Lake Como area.
- Vegetarian
Sciatt
Crisp fried buckwheat fritters with a melted cheese center, usually Casera. A beloved Valtellina specialty often served as a starter near Lake Como.
Ristorante Victoria Grill
Elegant lakeside fine dining known for refined Italian cuisine, tasting menus and a romantic setting inside Hotel Royal Victoria.
Al Prato
Popular lakeside venue with polished service, seafood, risotto and scenic terrace views. A strong choice for a leisurely meal in central Varenna.
Ristorante La Vista
Well-known traditional restaurant in Varenna serving lake fish, pasta and regional dishes in a historic, relaxed setting near the waterfront.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Lake Como: stays and lakefront dining cost more than inland towns, but ferries and simple meals remain manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for pizza, panini, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50-90 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or covered by coperto. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; small change for cafes; taxis are usually rounded up.
MooneyGo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.20
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Varenna-Esino -> Piazza San Giorgio, Varenna
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy Lake Como bus tickets in advance or on supported apps; onboard sales may be limited depending on the route.
- Varenna has no local metro or tram. Check ferry and bus timetables carefully, especially on Sundays and holidays.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Margherita Ligure 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 Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €21, while the average price is around €27.
The train from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna takes 3h 13m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna leaves at 2:09 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna is 115 miles (186 km).
The last train from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna leaves at 7:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna.
The train station in Santa Margherita Ligure that goes to Varenna is Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino, which connects to Varenna-esino.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna is by bus, with a cost of around €21.
Yes, the train journey from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna is scenic, offering views of the Ligurian coastline, picturesque Italian towns, and the scenic landscapes around Lake Como.
A day trip from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 13m. However, there are 9 train services per day for this 115 miles (186 km) journey.
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 Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna.
Since both Santa Margherita Ligure 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 Santa Margherita Ligure 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 Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna
Most Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna trains use the S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino to Varenna-esino station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Margherita Ligure and Varenna train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Santa Margherita Ligure
Arrival train stations in Varenna
Which Santa Margherita Ligure station do trains to Varenna leave from?
Trains from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna leave from S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino. The station is from Santa Margherita Ligure city centre at Piazza Nino Bixio, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy.
S. Margherita Ligure-PortofinoPiazza Nino Bixio, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy+39 0185 287003
City-centre transport
Getting to S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino from Santa Margherita Ligure city centre
BusSeveral lines available
FerryLine 1 to Portofino
S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino train station facilities and services
S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Da Michele, Trattoria Baicin
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Laurin, Hotel Metropole, Hotel Jolanda.
Which Varenna station do trains from Santa Margherita Ligure arrive at?
Trains from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna arrive at Varenna-esino. Varenna-esino is 0 miles (1 km) from Varenna city centre.
Varenna-esinoPiazza Martiri della Libertà, 23828 Perledo LC, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Varenna-esino from Varenna city centre
BusLocal bus services connect the station to nearby towns
FerryFerry services available to other towns on Lake Como
Varenna-esino train station facilities and services
Varenna-esino has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Varenna-esino.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Varenna-esino. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varenna-esino: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Varenna-esino: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varenna-esino: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Olivedo, Albergo Milano, Hotel du Lac.
Most popular train connections from Santa Margherita Ligure
More options for your journey from Santa Margherita Ligure to Varenna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Varenna and Santa Margherita Ligure
Most popular train connections to Varenna
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