Things To Do
in Malnate
Malnate is a small Lombard town located in the plains of Lombardy, with gentle hills nearby and quick access to Lake Como and Lake Varese. It blends a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with authentic local eateries and historic streets waiting to be explored. The area serves as a convenient base for day trips to Varese, Como, and the surrounding parks and lakes.
Visitors can enjoy relaxed strolls, seasonal markets, and panoramic views from nearby viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Malnate, where quaint architecture and local shops await. Enjoy a cozy breakfast at a traditional Italian café, savoring croissants and espresso. Visit the stunning Church of San Salvatore to admire its historical significance and beautiful artwork.
After lunch, head to Parco della Selva to immerse yourself in nature, where you can enjoy scenic walking trails and the tranquility of the park. Take a leisurely walk, absorbing the sights and sounds of the local flora and fauna. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bike to explore the area further.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at one of Malnate's charming restaurants, sampling local dishes like risotto or ossobuco. Post-dinner, take a leisurely stroll under the starlit sky through the square, where you might encounter live music performances. Wrap up your day with a gelato from a local parlor, cherishing the flavors of Italy.
Start your second day by visiting the local museums, which showcase the rich cultural history of the region. Engage with the artistic pieces and exhibitions that reflect the traditions of Malnate. Grab a traditional Italian breakfast, fueling up with pastries and coffee for more explorations ahead.
In the afternoon, take part in a guided art tour or workshop to dive deeper into the local arts scene. This hands-on experience allows you to interact with artists and create your own masterpiece. Visit artisan shops afterward to find unique souvenirs and handcrafted gifts.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner in a ristorante known for its authentic Northern Italian cuisine. Don't miss trying the locally sourced dishes paired with fine wines from the region. Conclude your night at a local wine bar, where you can relax and mingle with residents.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $90-150 |
| 🚆Public transport single ride | $2-3 |
| 🧀Local cheese and bread | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Lombard atmosphere
- Easy access to lakes and mountains
- Good value for money and family-run dining
- Limited nightlife within the town
- Public transport outside peak times may be slower
- Smaller selection of large-scale attractions compared to bigger cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Dove si trova?" - Where is it?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Mi può consigliare un ristorante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Malnate
Visit one of these nice places.
Colourful historic buildings and narrow lanes ideal for morning light.
A vantage point just outside town offering sweeping views of the lakes and Alps.
Reflections, reeds, and sunset vistas along the lake.
Food in Malnate
Malnate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy saffron-infused risotto, a Lombardy signature often served with ossobuco.
Must-Try!
Braised veal shanks with a rich vegetable sauce, classic in Lombardy.
Soft polenta paired with braised meat and pan juices.
Simple grandmother’s apple cake with a fluffy crumb.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market for fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional snacks.
Seasonal street food and quick bites by Lago di Varese and nearby shores.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello and a handshake for newcomers; use Buongiorno or Buonasera when entering shops.
Meals are social occasions; avoid eating on the go in formal settings and converse politely at the table.
Safety
Tipping in Malnate
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash and cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; small shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional heat spikes; carry water, wear sun protection, and be prepared for afternoon showers.
Mild to cool days; colorful foliage in forests and hill trails; harvest markets resume.
Cool to cold with potential fog; some outdoor services reduced; warm clothing essential.
Milder temperatures, blooming landscapes, and active outdoor life; pack a light jacket for occasional rain.
Malnate at Night
Hiking in Malnate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and hillside trails with panoramic lake and alpine views, suitable for day hikes.
Flat, scenic routes along the lake suitable for easy walks and family outings.
A challenging ridge walk with sweeping views of Lake Maggiore and the Alps; can be combined with a cable car trip from nearby towns.
Airports
How to reach Malnate by plane.
Primary international gateway, about an hour’s drive from Malnate with train and road connections.
Closer to central Milan; convenient for domestic and European flights; good rail links to Lombardy.
Bergamo airport serving many budget carriers; accessible by road and rail to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing families and working-age residents in a small-town setting.
Tourists from Lombardy and beyond who visit lakes and nearby parks.
People who work in Milan or Varese and live in the surrounding towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Italy, with local clubs and matches in nearby towns.
Hilly terrain and lakeside routes attract cyclists; road bikes and mountain bikes are common.
Lakeside areas host rowing and leisure water activities when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malnate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many risottos with mushrooms, polenta with grilled vegetables, and hearty salads are readily available; ask for meat-free broths.