Things To Do
in Samarate
Samarate is a quiet Lombardy town just outside Milan’s urban orbit, offering a blend of traditional Italian charm and easy access to the surrounding lakes and hills. Its streets reveal a sense of regional history, with nearness to both urban amenities and rural landscapes. The town serves as a practical base for exploring the larger Lombard area, from the lakes of Varese to the cultural sites of nearby Milan.
Local eateries and markets give visitors a taste of Lombard cuisine in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by strolling through the quaint streets of Samarate's historic center, taking in the charming architecture and local boutiques. Visit the Santa Maria Assunta Church, where you can appreciate its beautiful stained glass windows and serene atmosphere. Make sure to grab a traditional Italian pastry and a coffee at a nearby café to fuel your explorations.
After lunch at a classic trattoria, continue your exploration with a visit to the nearby Parco della Magana, offering picturesque walking paths and inviting green spaces. Enjoy a leisurely picnic in the park while soaking up the tranquil surroundings. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bicycle to explore further afield in the lush countryside.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local wine bars to unwind with a glass of Lombardy’s finest wines. Enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties, allowing the rich Italian flavors to tantalize your palate. Conclude the evening with a leisurely walk, taking in the twinkling lights of the town and reflecting on the day's adventures.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art to engage with thought-provoking exhibitions. The museum houses works by influential Italian and international artists, and the building itself is a stunning piece of architecture. Spend the morning immersing yourself in the world of modern art and creativity.
Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling local delicacies while conversing with locals and fellow travelers. Post-lunch, explore the nearby Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory to witness the traditional cheese-making process and enjoy a tasting session. This experience will deepen your appreciation for locally produced food.
In the evening, attend a cultural event or concert at the town hall or local theater, showcasing local talents or classical music performances. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for engaging with the locals and appreciating the community spirit of Samarate. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll through the streets, perhaps stopping for gelato at a nearby shop.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕️Coffee or latte | $2-4 |
| 🚆Local transit day pass | $4-7 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $0.80-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Milan and Lake Como region
- Calm, walkable town feel with Lombard charm
- Good access to outdoor activities around Lake Varese and Campo dei Fiori
- Limited nightlife within Samarate
- Less tourist infrastructure compared to bigger cities
- Traffic around Milan area can be heavy during peak hours
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Mi può consigliare un ristorante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
- "Sono vegetariano" - I'm vegetarian
- "Posso avere il conto?" - May I have the bill?
Places to Visit in Samarate
Visit one of these nice places.
Pastel façades, quiet lanes, and small‑town charm provide timeless street photography opportunities.
A long shoreline with gentle light, reflections, and seasonal scenery ideal for landscape photography.
A hillside cluster of chapels offering dramatic vistas over the plains and a sense of spiritual scale.
Rolling foothills and forested trails yield colorful seasonal photographs, especially at golden hour.
Food in Samarate
Samarate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Saffron‑colored risotto known for its rich, creamy texture and delicate aroma; a staple in Lombard dining and a great match with local cheeses.
Must-Try!
Slow‑braised veal shank served with saffron risotto; a quintessential Milanese‑Lombard dish that showcases depth of flavor.
Rustic polenta enriched with local cheese and butter; a comforting accompaniment to meat or mushroom dishes.
Tender braised beef cooked in red wine with aromatic vegetables; commonly found in Lombard trattorias and family taverns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties; a great place to sample local ingredients.
Well‑stocked market days with seasonal fruit, vegetables, and street snacks; ideal for picking up picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; be punctual for appointments; address people with polite forms such as signore/signora.
Dress neatly when visiting churches or formal settings; meals are social events, so avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Small talk about family, food, and regional culture is common; avoid sensitive political topics in casual encounters.
Safety
Tipping in Samarate
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with occasional thunderstorms; carry water, use sun protection, and plan lake outings for relief from heat.
Cooler temperatures with vibrant foliage; ideal for hiking and market visits, with crisp mornings and pleasant afternoons.
Cold but manageable conditions; shorter daylight hours and festive lights in towns, with opportunities for cozy cafés and seasonal cuisine.
Mild, blooming landscapes; great for outdoor walks, photography, and open‑air markets.
Samarate at Night
Hiking in Samarate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A regional park with forested trails and scenic viewpoints near Varese.
Gentle coastal trails around the lake with several access points and photo opportunities.
Religious hillside routes with panoramic overlooks of the plains and lake areas.
Airports
How to reach Samarate by plane.
Main international gateway for the area; frequent connections to Europe and beyond; about 40–60 minutes by car or train to Samarate.
Secondary city airport serving domestic and European routes; roughly 45–60 minutes by car or train to Samarate.
Also known as Milan Bergamo; serves many budget carriers; approximately 1–1.5 hours by road to Samarate.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Italian families and professionals; multi‑generational households common.
People commuting to Milan for work or study, attracted by accessible housing and transport links.
Small communities from Eastern Europe and North Africa, contributing to local markets and restaurants.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in Lombardy with local clubs and active youth programs.
Flat to rolling terrain makes cycling a common pastime among locals and visitors.
Parks and lake paths provide scenic routes for runners of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Samarate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable risottos, fresh pasta with tomato or mushroom sauces, and side dishes like polenta with mushrooms; most spots can adapt meals on request.