With hundreds of years of experience working with tourists, a pleasant climate and plenty of things to do make holidays in Varazze a great opportunity to discover the wonders of the Riviera delle Palme. In Roman times, the city was an important shipbuilding centre. Varazze gets its name from a medieval term, "Varagine", meaning a place where ships are launched.
In the northern part of Varazze there are ruins of medieval walls and ramparts and what remains of the façade of the ancient Romanesque church of Saint Ambrose. An exemplar of Romanesque-Lombard architecture, the collegiate church of Saint Ambrose's belltower called "Campanin Russu" has become an icon of the city. Precious Baroque altarpieces and interesting paintings and sculptures are kept at the parish church. You should also visit the San Nazario and San Celso churches with their characteristic parvises made of multi-coloured stones, as the church of San Domenico, which houses the ashes of Blessed Jacobus de Voragine. The 19th-century Villa Cilea is nearby, home of a celebrated Calabrian musician who chose Liguria to be his second home. Also nearby is the sanctuary of the city's patron saint, Saint Catherine. Every 30th of April a solemn procession and traditional historic parade are celebrated in her honour. Throughout the year, Varazze organises many theatrical, musical and outdoor arts events (especially in summer), such as “Varazze City of Women”, the International Mandolin Festival and “Varazze is Opera”, where the City of Varazze Francesco Cilea prize is awarded to the best opera performers.
The Lungomare Europa is for those who wish to walk amongst the marvellous coastal coves enjoying the sunshine. Built on an old railway track, it's a 5-kilometre route connecting Varazze to Cogoleto. Piani di Invrea overlooks the trail. Today famous for its maritime pines, mimosas and breath-taking scenery, it was once a celebrated stopping place for pilgrims travelling to Santiago de Compostela. Villa Castello rises up from amidst the greenery of this elegant residential area, a sophisticated Moorish building that was once belonged to an ancient lineage of Genoese nobles, the marquises of Invrea. As you go down towards the beach you meet with the new touristic port, Marina di Varazze, one of the biggest and best-equipped in Liguria. Here you'll find restaurants, shops and prestigious sea-front homes. Events, exhibits and markets are often held in the little square.
For sports enthusiasts, a holiday in Varazze is perfect for surfing, sailing, hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing. What's more, you can horse ride, skate and play tennis or bocce. It's up to you! The tract of Lungomare Europa that connects Varazze to Cogoleto is perfect for indulging in a romantic stroll in nature, amidst pines, mimosas, oleanders, broom, palms and olive trees. At sunset, the sun dips below the horizon, filling the sky with a thousand colours that make the atmosphere even more enchanting.
In summer, from May to September, Varazze's beach is tapestried with bathing huts, beach umbrellas and deckchairs. You'll definitely find the place that's right for you among the numerous bathing establishments that stretch from Punta della Mola to the Marina di Varazze. The quality and variety of services together with the warmth and hospitality of the locals has made Varazze famous in the field of tourism. Take a look at the holiday packages to Varazze now and get ready for a new unforgettable adventure.
