Things To Do
in Samarate

Samarate is a charming town located in the Lombardy region of Italy, nestled between Milan and Varese. Known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, it offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Italian life. The town is characterized by its beautiful architecture, serene parks, and friendly locals.

With easy access to nearby cities and attractions, Samarate serves as a perfect base for exploring Northern Italy.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Samarate
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to sample fresh produce and artisan goods. Stroll through the historic center, taking in the beautiful architecture and charming streets.

afternoon
:

Visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, known for its stunning frescoes. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria, trying out traditional Lombard dishes.

evening
:

Take a relaxing walk in the nearby park, followed by dinner at a family-run restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Nature and Nearby Attractions
morning
:

Head out to nearby Lago di Varese for a morning of nature walks and bird watching. Enjoy breakfast at a lakeside café, soaking in the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby city of Varese, exploring its charming streets, shops, and gardens. Don't miss the Sacro Monte di Varese, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

evening
:

Return to Samarate for dinner at a local pizzeria, where you can indulge in delicious wood-fired pizzas. End your day with a gelato from a popular local shop.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$10
Coffee$2
🍷Local Wine (bottle)$15
🥗Meal at a Restaurant$20
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere
  • Easy access to Milan and Varese
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport may require planning
  • English is not widely spoken in some areas
  • "Buongiorno" - Good Morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Samarate

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of Santa Maria Assunta

Capture the intricate architecture and beautiful frescoes of this historic church, a central landmark in Samarate.

Lago di Varese

A stunning lake surrounded by mountains, offering breathtaking views and perfect for landscape photography.

Sacro Monte di Varese

A UNESCO Heritage site featuring chapels and beautiful gardens, ideal for capturing both nature and architecture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Samarate

Samarate offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Lombard dishes and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy hearty meals, fresh ingredients, and a warm atmosphere in the town's eateries.

Samarate Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Risotto alla Milanese

A creamy rice dish flavored with saffron, often served as a main course.

Must-Try!

Ossobuco

Slow-cooked veal shanks braised with vegetables, white wine, and broth, typically served with gremolata.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Samarate Market

A weekly market held every Saturday, featuring fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Samarate experiences a temperate climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) can be warm, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F), while winters (December to February) are cold, ranging from 0-5°C (32-41°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate throughout the year, with wetter months typically in April and November.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with 'Buongiorno' (Good Morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good Evening) when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to sit and avoid asking for substitutions on the menu.

Dress Code

Dress well, especially when dining out; Italians tend to take pride in their appearance.

Safety Guide

Safety

Samarate is generally considered a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and guard personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 in case of any incidents.

Tipping in Samarate

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a delightful time to visit. Expect vibrant outdoor markets and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather draws visitors to outdoor activities and lakeside relaxation. Be prepared for occasional heatwaves.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage create a picturesque backdrop. Enjoy local harvest festivals and seasonal dishes.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall can make the area serene and beautiful. Winter festivities and holiday markets are common.

Nightlife Guide

Samarate at Night

Samarate offers a low-key nightlife scene, with local bars and restaurants providing a cozy atmosphere for evening gatherings. The nearby cities, such as Varese and Milan, offer more vibrant nightlife options, including clubs, live music, and late-night dining. For a relaxed evening, locals often enjoy aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink accompanied by small snacks.

Hiking in Samarate

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monte Campo dei Fiori

A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains, with well-marked trails suitable for various skill levels.

Sentiero del Viandante

A scenic trail along Lake Como, known for its breathtaking views and charming villages along the route, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Samarate by plane.

Milano Malpensa Airport (MXP)

Located about 20 km from Samarate, this international airport offers flights to various destinations across Europe and beyond, making it the primary gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Samarate is a walkable town, with most amenities, restaurants, and attractions located within a short distance. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have limited sidewalks, so caution is advised while walking near traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Samarate is home to a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals, contributing to a friendly and welcoming community.

Tourists

Visitors from all over the world come to explore Samarate and its surroundings, drawn by the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport in Italy, with local teams and clubs fostering community spirit and engagement.

Cycling

The region is popular for cycling, with numerous trails and scenic routes attracting both amateurs and professional cyclists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Samarate is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, although schedules may vary. It's advisable to check local transport apps for the latest information.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Samarate.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian selections, including pasta dishes and seasonal vegetable plates.

Gluten-Free

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to inform the staff about dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Samarate is provided through local clinics and hospitals in nearby larger cities. Italy has a public healthcare system, which offers medical services to residents and tourists, often requiring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for EU citizens. Private healthcare services are also available for those seeking quicker access.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide