9 best wedding venues on Lake Como, Italy
Located at the foot of the Alps in Italy's Lombardy region, Lake Como is one of the most stunning locations in the world. To the north lie the Alps, which are snow-dusted for much of the year, while the lakeshore is lined with palm trees and ornate villas that date as far back as the 16th century.
Visitors flock to Lake Como every summer and many couples choose to tie the knot against the glistening waters and picturesque mountain backdrop. So where can you get married on the lake? Check our edit of the nine best wedding venues in Lake Como, courtesy of destination wedding photographer Thomas Audiffren, and luxury wedding planner Wanderlust Weddings.
Villa Erba
Villa Erba is a neo-Renaissance palace from the 19th century. It sits in a 10-hectare park, neighboring nearby Villa d'Este, on the shores of Lake Como in Cernobbio in Lombardy, Italy. This palace is associated with a modern international congress, exhibition and conference centre, and is one of the most sumptuous Italian villas to visit on the shores of Lake Como.
Villa Sola Cabiati
Villa Sola Cabiati is an artistic masterpiece that harks back to the hedonism of the Belle Époque. With elaborate halls boasting stuccoes and frescoes by renowned artists of the day, and priceless collections of tapestries, paintings, majolica and Chinese vases, this historic residence will transport you back to a time when extravagance knew no bounds.
Villa Balbiano
Situated on the western shore of Lake Como, Villa Balbiano is an exceptional historical palazzo that once belonged to the famous Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, who built it at the end of 16th century and used it as his main residence. Nowadays, Villa Balbiano is the largest private residence on the lake, occupying over two hectare, with extensive sumptuous gardens, outdoor swimming pool, a private pier and a boathouse. Inside, its historic interiors have been filled with finest objets d’art and furniture of past centuries, sourced from Sotheby’s and Christie’s.
Villa Pizzo
Villa Pizzo, built between the charming villages of Cernobbio and Moltrasio, has a significant historical past dating back to 1435 and tells the story of a fascinating Italian dynasty. Villa Pizzo offers the longest lakeside garden on Lake Como, providing a breathtaking backdrop of the tranquil waters and dramatic mountain scenery.
Villa d'Este
Immersed in a 25-acre park, complete with terraces, statuary and a mosaic-embellished garden, Villa d'Este offers outstanding facilities and service to match its status as one of the world’s most celebrated hotels. The villa was built in a 1568 as a private residence, later becoming the home of Princess Caroline of Brunswick. Now, it’s a bastion of style and elegance that attracts a refined and sophisticated clientele.
Villa Bonomi
Facing Lake Como's western cost, the newly refurbished Villa Bonomi is an exclusive period property with a stunning four-acre garden. Sesigned by the renowned Italian landscape designer, Pietro Porcinai, the gardems are full of large terraces, a swimming pool and paths that meander throughout the different levels all facing the lake. The recent remodelling of the interiors adds a modern yet sophisticated touch, with a neutral colour palette that blends perfectly with the surroundings.
Villa La Cassinella
Villa La Cassinella is a secluded private estate on the western shore of the lake. Set amongst spacious, perfectly manicured gardens, the estate consists of the stunning main villa, a pool house with cinema and gym and the enchanting terrace house. You can host up to 17 guests here to relax and enjoy the luxurious surroundings that blend world-class amenities with classic Italian design and attention to detail.
Villa Del Balbianello
Located on the tip of the promontory of Lavedo in Lenno (a hamlet of Tremezzina), Villa Del Balbianello offers breathtaking views of Isola Comacina and the western shore of Lake Como. Built at the end of the 18th century by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini on the site of an ancient Franciscan monastery, it is a spectacular wedding venue that is also used as a film set (Casino Royale was filmed here) but does not offer onsite accommodation.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Sitting on the western shores of Lake Como, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo is an iconic art nouveau masterpiece with views spanning the crystalline waters towards Bellagio and the Grigne mountains. You can expect the ultimate in Italian luxury with sumptuous accommodation, three pools, a lakeside private beach and lavish private park.
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Photography: Thomas Audiffren | Planning: Wanderlust Wedding
