Giardini di Olivedo
Giardini di Olivedo offers breathtaking Lake Como views from a charming garden setting in Varenna, Italy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Giardini di Olivedo
Best Time
Enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Giardini di Olivedo offers breathtaking Lake Como views from a charming garden setting in Varenna, Italy.
"The view was awesome, but the food was a huge disappointment."
🎯 Varenna is the best base
Many travelers recommend staying in Varenna for its charm and accessibility to other Lake Como towns via ferry.
🚤 Ferry hopping is key
Utilize the efficient ferry system to explore Bellagio, Menaggio, and other picturesque villages.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Como Views
Giardini di Olivedo
Breathtaking panoramas of Lake Como, framed by lush greenery and charming architecture.
Varenna's Lakeside Promenade
Varenna
Stroll along the charming waterfront, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and colorful buildings.
Villa Monastero Gardens
Varenna
Explore the exquisite botanical gardens of Villa Monastero, a true oasis of tranquility.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Varenna's Charm
Dining Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎯 Varenna is the best base
Many travelers recommend staying in Varenna for its charm and accessibility to other Lake Como towns via ferry. +1
🚤 Ferry hopping is key
Utilize the efficient ferry system to explore Bellagio, Menaggio, and other picturesque villages.
💰 Dining can be pricey
Be aware that dining in popular Lake Como spots can be expensive, with mixed reviews on value.
🚶♀️ Wander Varenna's alleys
Get lost in the charming, narrow streets of Varenna for an authentic Italian experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Varenna is the best base
Many travelers recommend staying in Varenna for its charm and accessibility to other Lake Como towns via ferry. +1
🚤 Ferry hopping is key
Utilize the efficient ferry system to explore Bellagio, Menaggio, and other picturesque villages.
💰 Dining can be pricey
Be aware that dining in popular Lake Como spots can be expensive, with mixed reviews on value.
🚶♀️ Wander Varenna's alleys
Get lost in the charming, narrow streets of Varenna for an authentic Italian experience.
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning lake vistas and colorful architecture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Giardini di Olivedo offers a prime location with stunning Lake Como views, which many visitors appreciate. However, recent dining experiences have been inconsistent, with some guests reporting long waits, disappointing food quality for the price, and less-than-ideal service, tarnishing an otherwise beautiful setting.
"We had a lovely lunch at Olivedo today. The service was great and the food was delicious. They ran out of the menu item that two of us ordered and when I changed to an item that was more expensive they didn’t charge me the extra. That’s what I call going above and beyond."
Jennie Hardware
"There are a few things that went wrong during my visit.
1) When I ordered at the bar, the receptionist kept asking us to order more food, appetizers and drinks. Even though we said we didnt want to. It made us really uncomfortable. I get it that youre trying to upsell and get us to buy more food, but please do it nicely and dont smirk at us for not ordering appetizers?!
2) We ordered at 19:45. At 20:45, the food still didnt come. We went to ask at the cashier, and only after reminding them, then did the chef turned on the stove and started cooking and promised to serve the food in 10mins. Fortunately this was the case.
3) Unfortunately the food was a huge disappointment. They costed 20 euro a plate, but the taste was mediocre, like microwavable food.
4) We paid right after ordering, before we ate the food. After we finished the meal and wanted to leave, the staff asked us “have you paid yet?” Normally this is a normal question but since we have had 3 disappointing instances, it was really upsetting for them to do this.
++++
On the bright side, the view was awesome. But this has nothing to do with the restaurant."
Jan F
"I usually refrain from giving negative reviews and I'm not usually picky over food, but my experiences today have really encouraged me to share so you can make an informed decision while in Varenna 🙏🏼
First of all, the staff that took our order was very rude: we ordered enough food and drink for 5 people, including 5 main dishes, and the staff kept judging our orders and pushed us to order more again and again. When we said no, he was giving us an attitude.
Upon completing our order, we paid immediately.
Drinks and appetizer came rather quick. And then they had us waiting for the main dishes. After 1 hour of wait and the food didn't come, one of my friends went to the order station (which is next to the kitchen). The kitchen staff was just chilling and they weren't cooking any food. My friend got really angry and only then, they started cooking our food. They said it'd be ready in 10 mins.
After such a long wait (and spending a huge amount of money, i.e. €20 per main dish), the food that were served were really really disappointing. I've had great food in Italy, but the food served here are even worse than those that you can buy from supermarket and microwave yourself.
At the end, when we were leaving, multiple staffs kept asking us whether we have paid. Under normal circumstances, this might be okay, but given our back-to-back negative experiences, this was like adding more fuel to the fire.
Honestly, one of the worst experiences I've ever had and it was really sad because I loved Varenna the moment we reached. Such a lovely city, but our memories are tainted due to this experience.
Please please please avoid this place as much as possible 🙏🏼"
Maggie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended route is to take a train from Milan to Varenna. From Varenna, Giardini di Olivedo is a short walk along the lakefront. Many travelers find Varenna to be an ideal base for exploring Lake Como.
Yes, the ferry system is very efficient and a popular way to travel between towns like Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio.
Driving in Lake Como towns can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited parking. It's generally easier to rely on public transport and ferries.
Ferries are the most scenic and practical way to navigate Lake Como. Trains connect major towns to Milan.
Absolutely! Private and group boat tours are a fantastic way to see the lake and its villas from a unique perspective.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Giardini di Olivedo is part of the Hotel Olivedo and is generally accessible, especially if you are dining there. Specific entry requirements may vary, so it's best to check with the hotel directly.
As it's associated with Hotel Olivedo, access might be tied to hotel operations or dining hours. It's advisable to confirm current hours with the hotel.
While the gardens offer beautiful views, there isn't a separate ticket for the gardens themselves. Access is often linked to dining at the restaurant or staying at the hotel.
It's possible that access is granted to hotel guests or those dining at the restaurant. For the most accurate information, contacting Hotel Olivedo directly is recommended.
Information on special events or guided tours is not widely publicized. It's best to inquire with Hotel Olivedo for any scheduled activities.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire garden offers stunning vantage points of Lake Como. Look for spots with clear views of the water and surrounding mountains for postcard-perfect shots.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Early mornings can also offer serene views with fewer people.
Drone regulations can be strict in Italy, especially in populated areas and near historical sites. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details of distant villas.
Yes, you can take photos of the exterior and the general ambiance. However, be mindful of other guests' privacy, especially inside the hotel or restaurant.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Recent reviews are mixed, with some praising the food and service, while others found it disappointing and overpriced, comparing it to microwave meals.
Based on reviews, dining here can be costly, with main dishes around €20. Some visitors felt the quality did not match the price.
Some diners have reported significant wait times for main courses, even up to an hour, before food was prepared.
The restaurant appears to serve Italian dishes, with a focus on local ingredients, though the execution has received criticism.
Specific dietary options are not detailed in reviews. It's advisable to inquire directly with the restaurant about vegetarian or vegan choices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for accommodations that offer family-friendly amenities. Exploring the narrow streets of Varenna can be fun for older children, but be mindful of steep inclines. The boat trips are generally a hit with kids, offering a different perspective of the beautiful scenery.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing snacks and water can also help save money. Many of the most beautiful aspects of Lake Como, like the views and the charming towns, are free to enjoy. Focus on exploring the picturesque streets and soaking in the atmosphere rather than splurging on every meal.
❤️ Couples
Consider a leisurely ferry ride to explore other romantic towns like Bellagio. Many of the villas and gardens, such as Villa Monastero, offer serene and beautiful settings for couples to enjoy together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Varenna: The Gateway to Lake Como
From Varenna, the ferry system provides excellent connectivity to other famous Lake Como destinations like Bellagio and Menaggio. This makes Varenna a strategic choice for those who want to experience multiple towns without the hassle of constant travel.
When planning your visit, consider that Varenna can get crowded, especially during peak season. However, its inherent beauty and excellent transport links make it a top recommendation for any Lake Como itinerary.
Navigating Lake Como: Ferries and Beyond
Beyond the public ferries, private boat tours are also a popular option for a more personalized and luxurious experience. These tours allow you to see the magnificent villas and gardens from the water, often with the flexibility to stop at various points of interest.
While ferries are the primary mode of transport for many, it's worth noting that driving around Lake Como can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads and limited parking. Therefore, relying on the efficient ferry network is often the most stress-free way to discover the beauty of Lake Como.
Dining Experiences at Lake Como: Expectations vs. Reality
However, a significant number of recent reviews for Giardini di Olivedo point to considerable disappointment. Common complaints include excessively long wait times for food, rude or pushy staff, and food that is perceived as mediocre and overpriced, with some comparing it unfavorably to supermarket microwave meals.
Travelers are advised to manage their dining expectations. It might be beneficial to research restaurants thoroughly, read recent reviews, and perhaps opt for establishments with consistently positive feedback on food quality and service. Alternatively, enjoying a drink with the view and dining elsewhere in Varenna could be a strategy to consider.
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