- Recommended
Galleria d’Arte Villa Monastero
Art and exhibition spaces inside Villa Monastero, combining temporary displays with the historic villa setting and lakefront 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 (€95)
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 della Barca Lariana
Specialized museum dedicated to traditional boats of Lake Como, notable for preserving local nautical heritage in nearby Pianello del Lario, often visited from Varenna.
- Recommended
Casa Museo Villa Monastero
Historic house museum interiors at Villa Monastero with furnished rooms and decor reflecting the villa’s transformation from monastery to lakeside residence.
- Must visit
Passeggiata degli Innamorati
Famous lakeside walkway linking the ferry area and the historic center, one of Varenna’s most photographed and instantly recognizable strolls.
- Must visit
Centro Storico di Varenna
The compact historic center with stone lanes, stairways, and colorful houses is the heart of the village and ideal for wandering without a plan.
- Must visit
Giardini di Villa Monastero
Long linear botanical gardens on the lakefront with statues, exotic plants, and iconic viewpoints, among the most refined outdoor spaces in Varenna.
- Gluten-free
Risotto Al Pesce Persico
Creamy risotto topped with lightly fried Lake Como perch fillets, one of the area’s signature dishes and a classic of lakeside trattorias.
- Gluten-free
Missoltini
Traditional salted and sun-dried agoni fish from Lake Como, usually grilled and served with polenta; a historic local specialty.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Polenta Uncia
Rich mountain-style polenta finished with local butter, cheese, garlic, and sage, typical of the Lake Como and Lombardy area.
Al Prato
Established restaurant on a charming square, known for refined Italian cuisine, lake fish dishes, and a romantic setting.
Ristorante La Vista
Elegant hotel restaurant with panoramic lake views, offering polished Italian cooking and a more upscale dining experience.
Il Cavatappi
Well-known wine bar and restaurant in Varenna, appreciated for regional dishes, cheese and charcuterie, and an intimate atmosphere.
Euro
Lake Como is pricier than many Italian towns. Hotels and lakefront dining cost more, but cafés and simple meals are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-18 for panini, pizza, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 25-45 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale lakefront restaurants.
- 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 leaving EUR 1-2 at cafés or 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated.
Arriva MyPay
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.20 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Varenna-Esino, Varenna -> Varenna Ferry Terminal, Varenna
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Regional buses around Varenna are operated by Arriva Lombardia; buy tickets in advance or use the official app where available.
- Card payment is not reliably available on local buses, so carry a validated paper ticket or mobile ticket before boarding.
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
Zurich
Varenna
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Information 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 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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