For centuries, Lake Como has drawn aristocrats, writers and artists, who built some of the most beautiful villas and gardens in Europe along its shores. Many are open to visitors, others are best admired from the water, and a few are now among the most elegant hotels in Italy. Here is our local guide to the villas worth your time, and how to fit them into your stay.
The villas you can visit
Villa del Balbianello, Lenno
Set on a wooded promontory near Lenno, Villa del Balbianello is perhaps the most photographed villa on the lake, with terraced gardens, a panoramic loggia and views in almost every direction. Film lovers will recognise it from Casino Royale and Star Wars. You can reach it on foot from Lenno or by boat, and it is a highlight of many of our private boat tours.
Villa Carlotta, Tremezzo
Villa Carlotta is famous for its botanical gardens, which are at their most spectacular when the azaleas and rhododendrons bloom in spring. Inside, the museum holds 19th-century art, including Francesco Hayez’s painting of Romeo and Juliet’s last kiss. Allow at least two hours to enjoy both the gardens and the villa.
Villa Monastero, Varenna
A former convent turned elegant residence, Villa Monastero has a long botanical garden stretching along the shore, with citrus trees, palms and wonderful views across the lake. It is an easy walk from the centre of Varenna.
Villa Melzi Gardens, Bellagio
Just outside the centre of Bellagio, the gardens of Villa Melzi run along the water, with a Japanese-style pond, sculptures and colourful azaleas in spring. The villa itself is private, but the gardens are among the loveliest places for a peaceful walk in Bellagio.
Villa Cipressi, Varenna
Now a hotel, Villa Cipressi has terraced gardens tumbling down to the lake, which visitors can usually explore with a ticket. It makes a pleasant pairing with Villa Monastero next door.
Villa Olmo, Como
On the lakefront promenade in Como, Villa Olmo is an elegant neoclassical villa whose public gardens are perfect for a stroll. It often hosts exhibitions and events.
Villas best admired from the water
Some of the most famous villas on the lake are private homes or exclusive properties, so the best way to see them is from a boat. These include Villa Oleandra in Laglio, Villa Pliniana near Torno, and many of the grand residences along the shore between Cernobbio and Tremezzo. Seeing them from the water is one of the great pleasures of a day on the lake.
Villas where you can stay
Several of the lake’s historic villas are now luxury hotels, among them Villa d’Este in Cernobbio and the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio. Staying in one, or simply booking lunch or dinner on its terrace, is a memorable way to experience the lake’s grand-villa lifestyle. Our guide to where to stay on Lake Como can help you choose the right area.
Tips for visiting the villas
- Season: most villas and gardens open from spring to autumn and close in winter. Opening days and times change each season, so always check before you go.
- Spring blooms: April and May bring the famous azaleas and rhododendrons, especially at Villa Carlotta.
- Combine by boat: villas on opposite shores are easy to link by boat, saving time compared with the lakeside roads.
- Do not overdo it: two or three villas in a day is plenty. Leave time to linger in the gardens and enjoy lunch by the water.
- Book ahead in high season: popular villas can be busy in summer, so early visits or pre-arranged tickets help.
Frequently asked questions
Which Lake Como villa should I visit if I only have time for one?
For most first-time visitors, Villa del Balbianello is the one not to miss, for its setting and views. If you love gardens, especially in spring, Villa Carlotta is a wonderful alternative.
Can you visit George Clooney’s villa?
No. Villa Oleandra in Laglio is a private home and is not open to visitors. Like many of the lake’s private villas, it can only be seen from the water.
When are Lake Como’s villas open?
Most villas and gardens open from around March or April until October or early November. Opening days vary, so we always check the latest schedules when planning our clients’ itineraries.
More Lake Como guides
- The perfect Lake Como itinerary: 3, 4 and 5 days
- Where to stay on Lake Como
- Lake Como private boat tours
- The best time to visit Lake Como
- A Lake Como honeymoon
Plan your Lake Como villa tour
We can combine the villas you most want to see with a private boat, a local guide and lunch in a lakeside village, all planned around your dates. Tell us about your trip for a free, tailor-made proposal, discover our private Lake Como trips, or plan your journey today.