Departure from Sweetheart Apartment, Busto Arsizio
The day begins with the soft click of the door and the fresh morning air. From Sweetheart Apartment, Varese is the perfect destination for a one‑day trip: close, green, and surprisingly diverse. In less than half an hour you leave the flatlands behind and enter the Garden City, one of the most fascinating places in Lombardy.
🌳 Varese, the Garden City: what you shouldn’t miss
🌼 Estensi Gardens: the “Lombard Versailles”
The Estensi Gardens are one of Varese’s most beloved attractions. Walking down the grand staircase of Palazzo Estense, you enter a perfectly preserved 18th‑century garden: fountains, geometric flowerbeds, sculpted hedges.
Why they’re unmissable: • Scenic view from the staircase • Shaded paths ideal for a relaxing walk • Palazzo Estense with decorated rooms and stucco details
🖼️ Basilica of San Vittore and the Baptistery
In the heart of the historic centre, the Basilica of San Vittore and its octagonal Baptistery tell the oldest story of Varese. The basilica’s wooden ceiling is a masterpiece worth a slow, quiet pause.
🏛️ Villa Panza: contemporary art and light
For art lovers, Villa Panza is an essential stop. Its permanent collection features luminous works by Dan Flavin and James Turrell — installations that transform the rooms into immersive environments.
🏞️ Sacro Monte di Varese: UNESCO heritage and the Chapel Path
The Sacro Monte di Varese, part of the UNESCO‑listed Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy, is one of the most evocative places in the region.
The path of the 14 chapels
The ascent is a journey through art and nature: 14 frescoed chapels narrate the life of Christ through sculptures and theatrical perspectives. Every turn reveals a new view over the valley.
The village of Santa Maria del Monte
At the top, the village looks like a stone nativity scene: narrow alleys, panoramic terraces, quiet little shops.
Unmissable: • Baroffio Museum • Sanctuary Crypt • Panoramic view over Varese and the lake
🌊 Lake Varese: nature, cycling paths and peaceful views
Lake Varese is one of the most tranquil and atmospheric spots in the province. Its calm waters, reed beds and warm sunset light make it perfect for anyone seeking relaxation.
🚴 The Lake Varese cycle path
A 28‑km ring that follows the shoreline — ideal for a gentle bike ride or a scenic walk.
🏞️ Isolino Virginia
Reachable by boat from Biandronno, Isolino Virginia is a prehistoric UNESCO site with a small museum that tells the story of life on the lake thousands of years ago.
🚗 Return to Sweetheart Apartment
The road back is smooth, almost meditative. You return with the feeling of having lived a complete day: art, gardens, spirituality, water and sweeping views. A perfect itinerary for anyone staying at Sweetheart Apartment and wishing to discover one of the most charming areas of Lombardy.
Featured image credit: “Sunset at Lake Varese”, photo by Molo B, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY‑SA license).