Bergamo to Varenna Road Trip: Lake Como Drive Guide

The road from Bergamo to Varenna, about 90 km (56 miles) via the SS36 and SP72, takes roughly 1.5 hours without stops. But this is a journey that rewards those who linger. The route climbs from the Po Plain into the foothills of the Alps, crossing the Adda River and skirting the eastern shore of Lake Como. A little-known fact: the stretch along the lakeside between Bellano and Varenna was originally a mule track, later widened for cars, giving it a narrow, winding character.

For an expert perspective on finding the best stops and hidden gems between cities, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. This guide will help you make the most of every mile.

Safety on the SS36 is high, with crash barriers, signage, and emergency phones every 2 km. The SP72 requires caution: some curves lack guardrails, and the road can be single-lane at points. Use headlights even during the day for visibility.

• Rest zones: For break areas, use the service stations at Osio Sotto or the scenic lay-bys near Abbadia Lariana. Recommended rest stop: Riva Bianca park in Lecco, with playground and lakefront path.
• Fatigue tips: Stop every 45 minutes. The drive can be mentally taxing due to curves. Caffeine: Bar Centrale in Lecco (Piazza Garibaldi) serves excellent espresso.

Family suitability: The route is child-friendly with many parks and ice cream shops. Parco naturale del Monte Barro offers easy trails for kids with panoramic views of the lake.

• Pet-friendly framework: Dogs are welcome on trails and in many cafes. Recommend a stop at Parco di Villa Monastero in Varenna, where leashed pets can explore the botanical garden.
• Child-friendly attractions: The Museo dei Fossili in Lecco (fossil museum) and the adventure park Larius in Abbadia Lariana.

The primary route is the SS36 from Bergamo to Lecco, a well-maintained dual carriageway with a speed limit of 90-110 km/h. From Lecco, the SP72 hugs the eastern shore of Lake Como to Varenna. This lakeside road is narrower, with sharp curves and stunning views, demanding attention.

• Fuel stations are frequent along the SS36, with a major stop at the Osio Sotto service area. In Lecco, fill up before the lakeside stretch, as stations are scarce between Lecco and Varenna.
• Tolls: The SS36 is toll-free. Parking in Varenna is limited; use the large parking lot at the entrance of the town (€2 per hour) or the train station lot (€1.50 per hour).
• Best driving times: Early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) to avoid traffic. Weekends are busy with day-trippers from Milan.

Road quality is excellent on the SS36, but the SP72 is prone to landslides after heavy rain. Check local conditions before departure. Winter driving may require snow tires from November to March.

• Electric vehicle charging: Fast chargers available at the Orio al Serio airport (Bergamo) and in Lecco (various spots).
• Fuel costs: Expect €1.85 per liter for gasoline (July 2024).

The drive offers dramatic shifts in scenery. Leaving Bergamo, you pass the plain of the Po River, with views of Mount Resegone and the Grigne massif on the horizon. As you near Lecco, the landscape becomes alpine, with limestone peaks reflected in the emerald waters of Lake Como.

• Natural highlight: The Fiumelatte waterfall near Varenna, one of the shortest rivers in Italy, fed by a karst spring. It's visible from the road just south of Varenna.
• Flora: In spring (April-May), the hillsides are covered in wildflowers, including orchids and broom. Autumn (October) brings vibrant foliage, especially along the vineyard terraces.

Local commerce thrives in the villages: Bellano has a weekly market on Fridays, selling local cheeses and cured meats. In Varenna, stop at a bakery for the famous "miascia" bread. The route is dotted with small farms selling honey and olive oil.

• Shop tip: Pasticceria Pozzi in Lecco (Via Roma 12) offers exceptional amaretti and panettone.
• Wine: The region around Bellano produces a rare red wine, Rosso di Bellano, from the local Fara grape.