Lido di Varenna
Lido di Varenna, also called Olivedo Lido, sits on Via al Lido just north of Varenna's centre, a short walk from the Varenna ferry stop. It is a paid lido with sunbeds and umbrellas, changing rooms, showers, a bar, a bistrot and a restaurant, and it hosts jazz evenings and events in summer.
The shore is rocky, and travellers often mention a small pier for jumping into the lake. The lido does not publish its prices; visitor reports suggest a small entry fee plus around EUR 7 each for a sunbed or umbrella.
It is the most practical place to swim if you are staying in Varenna, where most of the waterfront is rock or harbour wall.
Guest Reviews
We spent a month travelling Italy and our meal at the Varenna beach club rated as one of the best. It was a beautiful spring day and we opted to eat away from the tourist crowds right in front of the ferries when we discovered this beautiful spot… (from the ferry terminal walk across the bridge to the left and find the yellow building). I honestly think it was only quiet because most of the tourist headed straight ahead or to the right and completely miss this side of the village. Staff were friendly and welcoming, beautiful decor with picture perfect views of the lake and alps. The warmth of the fireplace was a welcome touch with the early spring air still a little chilly. They do have indoor and outdoor seating available. A little more expensive than some places, but authentic Italian food and the quality was excellent and they offer GF options. It was our anniversary so glad we splashed out, absolutely worth it. Highly recommend!
We loved this little spot, enjoyed the view of the water up on the balcony and the staff were extremely friendly. We enjoyed a little snack of the charcuterie board and summer vibes drinks. Again, we can't emphasize how kind the staff were to us.
The location is very beautiful and ample seating, all the stars are for that. Food is very pricey but taste wise only average. Not a lot of options around, so we chose this one. Loved the views, gave a very classy feel. Wish they can improve on the taste and expand the menu a little bit.
Both the view of Lake Como and the tiramisu and cappuccino were outstanding. However, the prices are very high. You're definitely paying for the view, but overall it was a great experience.
Water was extremely overpriced and clearly aimed at tourists. We sat for 30 minutes and no one cleared the tables. The toilets were incredibly dirty, and the food was just average — definitely not worth the price. The staff were unfriendly and seemed unhappy to help. I would not recommend this place.
More Beachs in Lake Como
Lido di Bellagio
Lido di Bellagio is a paid beach club on Via Paolo Carcano, on the stretch of shore between Bellagio village and the gardens of Villa Melzi. It has a sand beach, a bistrot, a lounge bar and a private terrace, with views across the lake to Tremezzo and the western shore. Bellagio Boat Service can help if you arrive by private boat.
Lido di Bellano
Lido di Bellano, on Via Martiri della Libertà in Bellano, is the most complete lido on the eastern shore. It has a sand beach, swimming pools, an adults-only solarium terrace with jacuzzis for over-16s, and a restaurant with a wood-fired pizza oven.
Lido di Cernobbio
Lido di Cernobbio is a pool complex on Piazza Risorgimento, beside the Cernobbio ferry stop and a short walk from Villa d'Este. Rather than a beach, it has an Olympic-size pool, a children's pool, a solarium, a restaurant and pizzeria and a lounge bar, all facing the lake.