Strategically located between Genoa and Savona on the Ligurian Riviera, Varazze offers authentic year-round experiences from sea to nature trails.
History, tradition and festivals
Varazze’s balanced blend of outdoor activities, wellness, culture, gastronomy, and seaside experiences make it a year-round destination. The historic center features narrow “caruggi” alleys, colorful façades, and the medieval tower of the Collegiata di Sant’Ambrogio. The town hosts traditional festivities for Santa Caterina and San Bartolomeo, engaging the local community and attracting visitors interested in cultural heritage.
Inland villages and panoramic trails
On the hills above the coast Alpicella and Piani d’Invrea attract visitors with ancient chapels, vineyards, and panoramic views spanning the sea and countryside. Outdoor tourism is a major draw with the Beigua Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark, featuring over 500 kilometres of hiking trails through forests, hills and even canyons. The Varazze Trail Area caters to MTB enthusiasts, while the Beigua Cycle Route connects Varazze with Cogoleto, Stella, and Sassello for scenic rides.
Soft outdoor and seaside wellness
For a more relaxed pace, the Lungomare Europa, a former railway turned into a seafront promenade, and the Eremo del Deserto hermitage offer peaceful walks and spiritual reflection. The coast of Varazze, awarded the Blue Flag for the quality of its water, and has both equipped beach lidos and wild coves and it is a well-known hub for surfing. Varazze’s Marina has many boutiques and seafront restaurants, while beach lidos open year-round offer heliotherapy and seaside relaxation even in winter. Wellness-focused experiences include seaside spas, beach yoga, and forest bathing in nearby green areas.
A genuine food culture
Local gastronomy is rooted in tradition, with dishes like “buridda stuffed vegetables, and “mandilli” handmade ravioli served in historic trattorias, countryside markets, and contemporary restaurants, and the locally grown saffron adds an authentic touch to the culinary scene.
Events year-round and an Adventure Festival
Varazze is a year-round attraction. In spring,the town celebrates Santa Caterina with processions and fireworks. Summer brings music festivals and the “Cundigiun” food event, celebrating the cuisine of local towns and villages. In autumn, Beigua’s foliage attracts trekkers, while in winter, visitors can enjoy bracing coastal walks or brave the sea during the Winter Challenge. Another highlight for adventure lovers is the Varazze Adventure Festival, a multi-sport event where surfing, trail running, MTB, and climbing turn the town into an open-air sports arena.
