Until the last century Varese was a holiday place for Milan inhabitants because of its lakes, mountains and nature. The landscape is scattered with beautiful villas and the town gained the name of "garden-city". In addition to natural landscape, Varese and its area also offer interesting cultural sites; the town is rich in Art Nouveau architecture, particularly villas and hotels.

Typical cafes and restaurants as well as elegant shops and boutiques can also be found in the center of the town and in the neighbourhood  (see also Foxtown). For further information see: Varese Land of Tourism  and Convention of Visitors Bureau