I chose a town relatively close to Malpensa Airport, for my next destination. I only had three more days left on this trip, and I wanted to pack as much into them as possible. So, after careful consideration, I chose to visit the city of Varese. Varese is located approximately 55 kilometers north of Milano, and it would only take me a little over twenty minutes to get to the airport by a taxi, when I had to catch my plane back to the States. Saving that extra time, on the morning of an international flight, is a blessing, so I went ahead and booked a room for myself at the Repubblica di Oz Rooms, on Booking.com. 
Located at #3 Piazza Giovine Italia, in the heart of the historical center of Varese, Repubblica di Oz is a lovely B&B, with six different rooms, each one beautifully decorated, and quite spacious. For the next three nights, I would call the “Napoleone” room my home.
Leaving the room to explore my new surroundings a bit, I found myself immediately charmed by this city, and its citizens. I found myself thinking that this is the kind of place that would be lovely to live in — to call home. It has everything — history, charm, art, style — many shops and boutiques selling high-end clothing, etc. 
These plaques I found inside of an arch, in front of the city’s main church, or duomo. 
The archway, known as Arco Mera, built in 1850, connects Piazza Podesta with the Basilica di San Vittore.
A monument to Giuseppe Garibaldi stands in the center of Piazza Podesta. The one that we see today is a copy of an original, by Leone Buzzi.
A few minutes’ walk away, you will find Piazza Monte Grappa — the heart of the city. This large square was built during the Fascist period.
It is on this square that you will find the tourist information office, as well as cafes and government offices. 
Traces of Varese’s Gothic past are visible on the old windows of Casa Perabo, on Via Albuzzi. 
The Chiesa di San Giuseppe was built in 1504.
Le Corti is Varese’s shopping mall. I ventured inside to get out of the rain. 
Next up: more from Varese, including a visit to the Giardini Estensi!
Note: this blog is written in English and Spanish, and the author takes no responsibility for the quality of any other translations which may appear. If you have enjoyed this post, please check out our archives for more posts from bella Lombardia, as well as other Italian destinations. Grazie!