- Ville e giardini
- Art & Culture
Villa Panza in Varese
A journey through contemporary art and history
Villa Panza in Varese is a rare meeting point between history and contemporary art. In its ancient rooms, preserved by FAI, modern works dialogue with the past, creating a unique journey through beauty and innovation.
Located in the enchanting province of Varese, just a short distance from Milan, it is a retreat for those seeking inspiration and harmony.
A Journey Between Art and History at Villa Panza
Villa Menafoglio Litta Panza, known as Villa Panza, is an 18th-century residence located in Varese. Built in the mid-1700s, the villa changed hands several times before being acquired by Giuseppe Panza di Biumo in the 1950s. This visionary collector transformed the villa, enriching it with a stunning collection of modern and contemporary art. The classic architecture, adorned with neoclassical elements, spacious rooms, and an Italian garden, reflects the prestigious history of the villa, while Panza’s collection creates a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
Villa Panza Today: A Place Where Past and Present Meet
Today, Villa Panza is considered one of the most important cultural attractions in Lombardy, celebrated for its unique mix of art and historical architecture. Managed by the FAI (Italian National Trust) since 1996, the villa has been carefully restored to preserve its original charm. The combination of historic interiors and contemporary art installations makes Villa Panza an ideal destination for those looking for contemporary art museums in Lombardy or cultural day trips from Milan. The extensive gardens and exhibition halls host both temporary and permanent art displays, making Villa Panza a key cultural hub for anyone seeking things to do in Varese for a day or during a rainy afternoon.
The Role of FAI and the Contemporary Art Collection
FAI’s stewardship is essential in preserving Villa Panza and its cultural mission. The organization has transformed the villa into a contemporary art museum, upholding the legacy of Giuseppe Panza, who was captivated by the innovative approaches of American art. Over time, he acquired works by renowned artists like Dan Flavin, James Turrell, Robert Irwin, and others, known for their revolutionary use of light and space. Their pieces integrate seamlessly with the villa’s spaces, creating a unique sensory experience. Temporary exhibitions complement the permanent collection, offering contemporary art shows not to be missed in Varese, drawing visitors from all over Italy. Villa Panza is also an ideal destination for those looking for indoor activities in Varese, as its rich cultural offerings make it a perfect stop on rainy days.
Villa Panza in Varese, with its captivating history and contemporary art collections, is a cultural gem of Lombardy. From its storied past to its vibrant modern exhibitions, every corner of this villa invites visitors to experience the timeless beauty of art and culture.
Opening hours
Monday CLOSED
Tuesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Last entry 45 minutes before closing time.
eNTRY TICKETS garden ONLY
- FAI member ticket: € 5.00 FREE
- Full ticket: € 15.00 €5.00
- Reduced ticket: € 10.00 €1.00 - €3.00
6 - 18 years old; students up to 25 years old - Reduced ticket for Varese residents: € 7.50 €5.00
free from Tuesday to Friday - Reduced ticket: € 5.00
INTO members, Mécènes and Bienfaiteurs Amis du Louvre members - Family ticket: € 40.00 €10.00
2 adults and children aged 6-18
Discounted rates available for groups of at least 20 people. To request a quote, click here.
For information and bookings on educational activities for schools, call 0332-283960 on Wednesdays and Fridays from 2 PM to 6 PM or email faibiumo@fondoambiente.it
gUIDED TOURS
Guided tours for groups (minimum 20 people) are available by reservation.
To view tour options, click here
To request a quote, click here.
Guided tour rates for the permanent collection (Villa + Rustici) are as follows:
- Guided tour in Italian: € 100
- Guided tour in a foreign language: € 130
- School tours
For all information on educational tours, visit the FAI Scuola website.
HOW TO GET TO VILLA PANZA
BY CAR
Take the A8 "Autostrada dei Laghi" motorway (Milan-Varese) to Varese city center. Follow the signs to Villa Panza.
TAXI SERVICE AGREEMENT
CONSORZIO ARTIGIANI VARESE TRASPORTO PERSONE
RADIO TAXI VARESE
For information and costs, use the following contact number: tel. 0332 24 18 00
It is possible to reach Villa Panza from train stations and various hotels in Varese.
BY TRAIN
Take a train on the S5 suburban line (Varese-Milan Passante-Treviglio) or on the regional lines Varese-Saronno-Milan, Laveno-Varese-Saronno-Milan, Porto Ceresio-Varese-Gallarate-Milan of Trenord, or on the cross-border lines S40 (Como-Mendrisio-Varese) or S50 (Biasca-Bellinzona-Lugano-Varese-Malpensa) of TILO, with Varese as the destination.
From the station, Villa Panza can be reached on foot in about 20 minutes, or by bike in about 10 minutes, renting an e-bike or using the bike-sharing service near the station.
For train schedules, consult the Trenord website.
The new railway link Como - Varese - Malpensa is now available: more information here
BY BUS
Alternatively, you can take the CTPI/Line A bus, boarding at the Maspero/Kennedy/FS FN Station stop near the railway station and alighting at the final stop in Piazza Litta, where the Villa is located.
For bus schedules, consult the CTPI website
