Visiting Varazze
Varazze is a charming seaside town located just a short distance from Genoa, in the Liguria region of northwest Italy. While it has a year-round population of 13,700, the town swells significantly during the summer months. It is an ideal spot for a weekend getaway and a recommended stop if you are already exploring Genoa and its surroundings.
A town defined by the sea
The name Varazze once referred to the place where ships were launched, a nod to a deep-rooted maritime tradition that remains visible today. In place of the historic shipyards, you will now find the Marina di Varazze. The town has evolved into a premier seaside destination, favored for its beaches and temperate waters. You will easily find a spot to lay out your towel between Punta della Mola and the marina. If you are looking for activity, the area is perfect for kayaking, windsurfing, mountain biking, surfing, or horseback riding. For a more relaxed pace, you might try a game of bocce. To take in the Mediterranean views, walk the sentier Lungomare Europa. Built along a former railway line, this five-kilometer path winds through a landscape of mimosas, oleanders, and palms. It passes near Piani di Invreale, a site that once served as a resting point for pilgrims traveling toward Santiago de Compostela.
A rich religious heritage
Varazze is the birthplace of Jacques de Voragine, a significant figure in Italian religious history who served as Archbishop of Genoa from 1292 to 1298. The church of San Domenico holds the remains of this Blessed figure of the Catholic Church. Do not miss the Campanin Russu, the bell tower of the church of Saint-Ambroise and the town's most recognizable landmark. It serves as a prime example of Lombard Romanesque architecture. If you are in Varazze in late April, you can witness the procession honoring Saint Catherine, the town's patron saint, who has her own sanctuary. A traditional parade winds through the city in her honor. For a bit of culture, visit the 19th-century villa Cilea, built by a musician who fell in love with Varazze. Every year, the Francesco Cilea prize is awarded to the best opera singer during a major local festival.
When to go
The best time to visit Varazze is during the summer to fully enjoy the coastal atmosphere. The sea temperature is particularly pleasant during the peak season, reaching up to 81°F (27°C). You can visit in the off-season, though the town will be quieter and some restaurants and beach shops may be closed.
How to get there
The nearest major cities are Savona, about a 20-minute drive via the A10 and E80, and Genoa, which is about 40 minutes away using the same route. Genoa is also where you will likely arrive by plane. If you are arriving from the south of France, you can easily drive from Nice in about 2 hours or take the train directly to the Varazze station.
