Are you looking to visit the Sacro Monte di Varallo on your next trip to Piedmont? Italy’s most iconic Sacred Mountain is the oldest and most revered of the nine religious sites.
Constructed by Bernardino Caimi in 1491, the idea was to create a place of pilgrimage in Italy for those who couldn’t get to the Holy Land. Today, the UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as an integral part of the Piedmont Special Nature Reserve overlooking the town of Varallo. It is a must-visit attraction if you’re exploring the Valsesia Valley.
Jack and I were lucky enough to make a stop during our Italy Road Trip, where we spent a little over two weeks exploring Piedmont. How to visit the Sacro Monte di Varallo is your guide to everything you need to know to see this wonderful site in the heart of upper Piedmont, North Italy.
How To Visit Sacro Monte di Varallo – All You Need To Know To Plan The Perfect Trip
This guide provides information on the history of the site, its location, facilities, opening hours, entrance fees, and itinerary. Plus, loads of other helpful information we wish we had known before visiting!
About Sacro Monte di Varallo
The Sacro Monte di Varallo is one of nine Sacred Mountains located in the Piedmont and Lombardo regions of Italy. These sacred sites are revered for their religious significance and have been constructed over a period of more than 200 years, starting from the late 15th century.
The site is home to 44 chapels that are adorned with frescoes and life-size wooden and polychrome terracotta statues, each depicting scenes from the life and passion of Jesus Christ. The intricate detailing of these chapels is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artists who created them.
During the Counter-Reformation period, the pilgrimage to the Sacro Monte di Varallo was considered an alternative to the pilgrimage to Jerusalem. The site offered a way for people to experience the religious significance of the holy land through the depictions of Christ’s life and death.
Apart from its religious significance, the Sacro Monte di Varallo also offers a picturesque view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can enjoy a peaceful and serene stroll through the chapels, taking in the breathtaking views and immersing yourself in the history and culture of the region.
Where Exactly Is Sacro Monte di Varallo?
Sacro Monte di Varallo is in the province of Vercelli and is nestled in the Valsesia Valley of the upper Piedmont region. It’s about 110 km north of Milan and Turin and 50 km west of Lake Orta.
How To Plan Your Visit To Sacro Monte di Varallo
To make sure you know exactly what to expect during your visit, I’ve put together all the important information in one place for you.
The info point of the Nature Reserve of the Sacred Mount of Varallo is located at the Park Security in Casina d’Adda. During its opening hours, it provides tourist information and brochures to the public. Opening times are from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sacro Monte di Varallo Entrance Fees
The Sacred Mountain of Varallo is free to visit.
Donations are accepted, and if you choose to use the cable car instead of walking, there is a €5.00 return ticket fee. (More on the cable car below).
Sacro Monte di Varallo Opening Hours
The Sacro Monte di Varallo is open all year round, 24 hours a day. However, the Basilica of the Virgin Mary of the Assumption has set opening times. Continuous: 8.30 am – 5.30 pm (winter) and 6.30 pm (summer).
Sacro Monte di Varallo Facilties
At the top of the mountain, there are facilities such as public toilets, a water fountain, and a hotel/restaurant. There is a small shop with souvenirs and info in the square of the Basilica – the store is open seasonally, and it’s closed on Monday.
- Hotel Restaurant “Vecchio Albergo Sacro Monte”: Built-in 1594 by Bishop Carlo Bascapè to host the artists and pilgrims who came to Varallo. The Hotel is located at the entrance to the Sacro Monte.
- Hotel Restaurant “La Casa del Pellegrino”: It is located inside the Sacro Monte, next to the Basilica of the Assumption.
- The restrooms are located at the first square/parking, behind chapel No. 25, in front of chapel No.14. in piazza della Basilica, under chapel No. 38. There was no paper in the public toilets when we visited.
- A free Wi-Fi area is available in Piazza Giovanni Paolo II.
Sacro Monte has three designated picnic areas for visitors located in Piazza Giovanni Testori, near the souvenir shop in Basilica Square, and the gardens adjacent to Piazza dei Tribunali. Additionally, there are two areas called “belvedere,” which provide panoramic views and tables.
⭐ Pro tip >> You can download the Sacri Monti App free of charge from Google Play and Apple Store to help with your planning.
Guided Tours
There are a number of guided tours available. The best place to arrange these is through the official website here.
Chapel Itinerary
The route connecting the chapels in the park is divided into two parts. The first part, which begins at the Adam and Eve chapel and ends at the Entrance of Christ into Jerusalem chapel, is surrounded by the vegetation of the Reserve.
The second part is situated at the top of the Mount and can be accessed through the Golden Gate. It resembles a city and retells the life story of Christ within the walls of Jerusalem.
The centre of the sacred complex is the Basilica of the Assumption, which will be your ultimate destination.
When Should You Visit Sacro Monte di Varallo?
The religious site is open throughout the year and can be visited all year long.
Most will agree that the best time to visit Sacro Monte di Varallo is during the summer months, when the weather is most predictable and at its best, although this is the busiest period. Consider visiting during spring or autumn for fewer crowds and milder weather.
The Valsesia Valley experiences high levels of snowfall during the winter, and temperatures plummet. However, this can be a serene and beautiful time to visit if you’re willing to risk the snow – be sure to wrap up warm.
⭐ Pro tip >> We visited at the very start of October and found this to be the perfect time of the year. There were few crowds, but we still had the good weather!
How Long Do You Need At Sacro Monte di Varallo?
The Sacro Monte di Varallo can be visited within a day. In truth, only a few hours are needed, but consider putting aside a day to visit the Sacred Mountain and another for the city. Varallo is a charming city and worth exploring.
There are also a number of museums to visit, and it’s even possible to arrange a ride on one of Piedmont’s heritage trains if you time your visit right.
More than two days in Varallo could feel like too long. Alternatively, Varallo makes a good base for exploring the rest of the Valsesia Valley.
How Much Money Should You Take?
Since the Sacro Monte is free to visit, there is no requirement. However, you might want to leave a donation. This can be anything from a few euros plus. In general, we noticed people dropping around €10 into the donation box.
What Should You Pack?
The weather in Varallo can be quite changeable due to the mountain climate, and you will be doing a fair bit of walking, especially if you’re visiting all the chapels. Therefore, it’s essential to choose comfortable shoes and pack a light jacket in your day bag.
Generally, you’ll only be spending a few hours at most on the Sacred Mountain, and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and bars within the city, so taking food isn’t necessary. That said, there are allocated picnic areas with great views should you choose to picnic.
- Sunscreen | Make sure you protect your skin.
- Sun Hat / Cap & Sunglasses | To protect your head and eyes from the sun.
- Water Bottle | We always carry a water bottle – it is our favourite.
- Cover-up | Keep this item in your day bag for entering religious buildings.
- Sandals | These are the most comfy sandals for all-day walking.
- Rain Jacket | If you’re visiting during winter, pack a lightweight waterproof jacket.
- Bug Repellant | There are midgets around in summer.
⭐ Pro tip >> It’s respectful to dress conservatively when visiting religious sites. Make sure you have your shoulders and knees covered when exploring Sacro Monte di Varallo.
Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance
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How To Get To Sacro Monte di Varallo
Getting to Sacro Monte di Varallo is very easy. The best way is to walk uphill; it’s free and should only take around 20 minutes. You can also use the Cable Car (funicular), which is well-maintained and the most popular way to reach the top.
Alternatively, parking is available at the very top of the Sacred Mountain (only available to cars) and in Varallo.
The Cable Car
One of the best ways to reach Sacro Monte di Varallo is on the Cable Cars. It’s the steepest cable car in Europe and offers panoramic views running every 15 minutes. Each trip takes around 1 minute 20 seconds and covers 200m. The height difference is 134m, is suitable for people in wheelchairs and fits 13 people.
- Summer time: 09.00 – 18.00 (extended to 19.00 Saturday, Sunday and holidays)
- Winter time: 09.00 – 17.00 (Saturday, Sunday, holidays and Christmas holidays)
- Ticket costs: single : €5 return ticket; groups (at least 20 people): €4 return ticket; children up to 6 years are free; one way/return €3
⭐ Pro tip >> Dogs are allowed on board free of charge as long as they are on a leash and muzzled. You can rent a muzzle at the ticket office at the price of €2 for the rental + €8 deposit.
The Walking Path
We recommend getting to Sacro Monte di Varallo by walking along the cobbled path to the top. It’s an easy enough hike and shouldn’t take you longer than 20 minutes.
There are actually two routes; the main one is the trail of the Madonna delle Grazie. It’s a nice walk starting at the church of the Madonna delle Grazie and follows a winding path amongst the trees.
For hiking enthusiasts, there are several routes around the Sacro Monte di Varallo that start and easily lead to the peaks above the city of Varallo with panoramic views of the Alps, Monte Rosa, Valsesia and Val Mastallone, including the trail of Father Gallino.
Parking At Varallo
There are two main car parks which provide easy access to the Sacro Monte di Varallo.
- Sacro Monte cable car parking area (in the city) is located near the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and the cable car to the Sacro Monte. Costs: €10.00/h – after 3 hours €30.00 (full day). – Parcheggio Autobus
- Sacro Monte parking area (at the site) This is a restricted traffic area divided into four zones for cars; parking is subject to a fee (€1.50/hour). – Parcheggio Bus, Sacro Monte.
If you’re travelling by bus/coach, there are special requirements and general access to the Sacro Monte parking area is prohibited. There are a few exceptions where access is authorised by the Municipal Police Command of Varallo. (tel. +39 0163.56.27.27).
Otherwise, you’ll need to park at the cable car parking area, which has designated spaces for buses.
- Camper Rest Area: Via D’Adda at the intersection of Via Sant’Antonio. There are 8 places available, and the maximum parking allowed is 48 hours. Free wastewater discharge, chemical toilet loading and water. Paid electricity Full day: €10
If you don’t mind walking 5 minutes into the old town and 15 minutes to the Cable Cars, there is another free parking located on Via Mario Tancredi Rossi, just after the petrol station. This is where we parked. It was safe and quiet, although no facilities.
Ideas On Where To Stay In Varallo
Varallo makes a good base for exploring the Valsesia Valley and the nearby lakes: Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore.
- Delzanno: Check and review prices on Booking│ Book a room on Agoda.
- Ospitalità rurale familiare Land Wasser: Check and review prices on Booking│ Book a room on Agoda.
- Dimora Fiorita Senior My Holiday Home: Check and review prices on Booking│ Book a room on Agoda.
- Al Vicolo del Gallo: – Check and review prices on Booking│ Book a room on Agoda.
Is Sacro Monte di Varallo Worth Visiting?
Most people who visit Varallo come to visit the sacred mountain. It’s a site worth visiting, regardless of your religious beliefs, and we found it to be not only religiously interesting but visually stunning, with panoramic views over the Valsesia Valley.
The dedication to detail and workmanship was commendable, and although we didn’t visit all of the 44 chapels, we spent an hour mesmerised by the surrounding views and the ornate Basilica.
If you can, I recommend walking to the top of the mountain along the 20-minute cobbled path. The ideal route starts from the centre of Varallo and represents Jesus’ ascent to Calvary. Afterwards, catch the Cable Car to the bottom.
If you’re especially a fan of religious art and history, Sacro Monte di Varallo is a must-visit. However, it’s also a worthwhile and interesting attraction to visit while exploring the Piedmont and Lombardi regions due to its religious significance.
Is Sacro Monte di Varallo Safe?
If you’re planning to visit this place, you’ll be pleased to know that it is not only a beautiful destination but also a safe one.
The management of Sacro Monte di Varallo is exceptional and ensures that the site is always well-maintained and secure for visitors. The staff is welcoming, helpful, and knowledgeable, which made it easy for us to navigate the area and learn about its history and significance.
The site is equipped with state-of-the-art safety measures, including video surveillance and emergency response systems, to provide you with peace of mind.
In Summary: Sacro Monte di Varallo
Hopefully, our comprehensive guide on how to visit the Sacro Monte di Varallo has helped you begin planning your trip.
Just remember to enjoy a peaceful and serene stroll through the chapels, taking in the breathtaking views and immersing yourself in the history and culture of the region.
Don’t forget there are also guided tours available. Download the Sacri Monti App free of charge from Google Play and the Apple store to help with your planning.
Overall, Sacro Monte di Varallo is a must-visit destination if you’re interested in history, culture, and spirituality. With its beautiful surroundings and remarkable architecture you’ll have a wonderful experience that you’ll cherish for a long time
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