Overlooking the Ligurian Sea between Genoa and Savona, Varazze is a popular holiday resort in the Riviera di Ponente. It was established around the Roman settlement of Ad Navalia and flourished as a ship-building hub in the Middle Ages. Backing Varazze are the Ligurian Apennines and the rugged landscapes of Beigua Natural Regional Park.
Things to do in Varazze
Stroll through Varazze to admire its historic churches, which include the Romanesque-style Church of San Nazario e Celso. See the Sienese School frescoes within the 15th-century Church of San Domenico and the 12th-century portal of the Church of Santa Maria in Latronorio. Also of note is the Church of Sant’Ambrogio, which features a Gothic-Romanesque campanile and a panel painted by Luca Cambiaso.
Following the route of the 19th-century Genoa-Ventimiglia railway is the Passeggiata Europa, which connects Varazze to the town of Cogoleto. Stretching for 4.5 kilometres, it winds through a rocky coastal landscape dominated by Aleppo pines and Maquis shrubs while offering magnificent views across the Ligurian Sea. Several railway artefacts dot the route and its numerous tunnels.
Varazze is surrounded by beautiful beaches where you can rent umbrellas and sun loungers for a day on the sand. Head to Bagni Jolanda or Bagni Pinuccia, which are nestled beside the marina and are backed by bars, restaurants and gelaterias. On the other side of Varazze is Spiaggia Nautilus, a dog-friendly beach with a coastal swimming pool.
Getting around Varazze
Varazze is a 20-minute drive from Savona and about an hour from Genoa. Genoa Christopher Columbus Airport is 40 minutes away and has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Varazze railway station and buses travel throughout the town. The centre of Varazze can easily be explored on foot.