Varese

It's the most beautiful town in Italy. I'm biased of course! It's where my family is from. Here are some reasons why you should visit:

Above: City Hall of Varese (Palazzo Estense)

1.The beautiful gardens. My favorite is located behind Palazzo Estense designed with flower beds of all different shapes and sizes. The villa is pink and when the flowers are in bloom it's just so pretty. I have many great memories of my nonna taking me there as a little girl.

2. Sacro Monte (Sacred mount of Varese) overlooks the town of Varese. There's a road that leads up to the top of the village and along the way there are 14 chapels (dedicated to the rosary). At the top the mountain is the Shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The walk is about 2 kilometers long. At night you can see some citylights twinkle all the way from Milano. Or you can look up and see the stars.

3. #DoYouLake? That's the tourism slogan for the town of Varese. Located close to Lago di Como, Varese also has a lake. It's not nearly as famous as Lago di Como. But it's still tranquil along with splendid sunsets.

4. The Lindt Chocolate factory outlet. I don't think I need to explain anything more here. Just be prepared you'll end up buy way more kilos of chocolate you ever thought imaginable. But that's ok, because it's so fresh and way better than the Lindt at the candy aisle in any store in America.