- 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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Why should you book Zurich Airport to Varenna trains with Omio?
Trenitalia operates all trains services from Zurich Airport to Varenna.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich Airport to Varenna.
Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich Airport to Varenna
Switzerland
Italy
Take a train from Zurich Airport to Varenna and enjoy the approximately 105 miles (169 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
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 105 miles (169 km) |
Average train duration 4h 9m |
Trains per day 29 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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: Trenitalia from Zurich Airport to Varenna trainsTrenitalia trains will get you between Zurich Airport and Varenna. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Trenitalia
About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 15m
Cheapest Price
$116
Trenitalia frequency
25 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
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 Zurich Airport to Varenna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich Airport 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.
The distance by train from Zurich Airport to Varenna is 105 miles (169 km).
There is no high speed train available from Zurich Airport to Varenna.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich Airport to Varenna.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich Airport to Varenna.
Yes, the train journey from Zurich Airport to Varenna is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss Alps, charming lakeside towns, and lush countryside landscapes along the way.
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 Zurich Airport to Varenna.
Since both Zurich Airport 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 Zurich Airport 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.
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 Zurich Airport to Varenna
Most Zurich Airport to Varenna trains use the Zürich HB to Varenna-esino station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich Airport and Varenna train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Varenna
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 Zurich Airport
More options for your journey from Zurich Airport to Varenna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Varenna and Zurich Airport
Most popular train connections to Varenna
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