This isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of place. You might be dreaming of a grand, black-tie affair in a historic villa, complete with fireworks reflecting on the lake. Or perhaps you envision something more intimate, a relaxed gathering with close friends and family in a charming lakeside garden.
Now, I’m not talking about some stuffy, high-falutin’ art gallery kind of art. This is the art of crafting a celebration that feels personal, authentic, and, most importantly, fun. It’s about more than just booking a fancy venue (though, let’s be honest, the venues here are seriously fancy).
Over the next few sections, we’ll break down how to make this happen. We’ll discuss the best places to stay (because let’s face it, you and your guests deserve some pampering), the must-do activities (you’re not going to just sit in your hotel room the whole time, are you?), and, of course, where to find some seriously delicious food (Italy, remember?).
Lake Como Wedding Accommodation | Hotels, Villas, and More
Finding the perfect place for you and your wedding guests is key to a successful Lake Como celebration. We’ve curated a selection of the most luxurious and convenient accommodations, ensuring everyone enjoys a comfortable and memorable stay throughout the wedding festivities.
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Luxurious Receptions
For a truly grand Lake Como wedding, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo delivers. Its elegant rooms and suites, many with lake views and private hot tubs, offer luxurious accommodation for wedding guests. The T SPA provides a relaxing escape for pre- or post-wedding pampering, while the panoramic restaurant and wine bars offer exquisite settings for rehearsal dinners or post-wedding brunches. The hotel’s own motorboats provide unique opportunities for wedding photos or guest excursions. With its beachfront location and extensive amenities, it’s a perfect choice for a sophisticated celebration.
The Grand Hotel Victoria, with its Art Nouveau design and lush gardens, provides a beautiful backdrop for a Lake Como wedding. The large swimming pool and panoramic terrace offer ideal spaces for receptions or cocktail hours. Modern conference facilities can accommodate up to 100 guests for larger wedding parties. The availability of special rates at a nearby golf course offers an additional activity for wedding guests. The hotel’s blend of elegance and modern amenities makes it a versatile choice for wedding celebrations.
Fancy Villas
While currently undergoing some service adjustments due to its focus on hosting events and weddings at a sister property, Hotel Villa Cipressi remains a charming option for smaller, more intimate wedding gatherings. Its classic décor and spacious rooms provide comfortable accommodation. The beautiful gardens and convenient location in Varenna offer a great setting. While some services may be temporarily modified, the hotel’s historical charm and proximity to Lake Como’s attractions make it a worthwhile consideration for certain wedding styles.
For a truly private and exclusive Lake Como wedding experience, Villa Ponti Bellavista is an excellent choice. This luxury villa offers ample space for close friends and family, with features like a private pool, sauna, and open-air bath. The private patio and barbecue facilities are perfect for relaxed pre- or post-wedding gatherings. The availability of yoga and fitness classes, along with bicycle rentals, provides entertainment options for guests. Its location slightly outside of Bellagio offers a tranquil setting for a more intimate celebration.
Beyond the Wedding | Discovering Lake Como
Looking for ways to entertain your wedding guests on Lake Como? This section offers a guide to the best activities and experiences, ensuring everyone enjoys their time during your wedding celebrations.
Boat tour for everyone!
If you’re getting hitched on Lake Como and don’t get on a boat, you’re doing it wrong. Seriously. It’s like going to Paris and skipping the Eiffel Tower – just unthinkable. Now, there are boat tours, and then there are Lake Como boat tours. We’re not talking about some cramped, cattle-class ferry here (though those have their place for getting around). I’m talking about stylish vessels, from classic wooden speedboats that look like they’ve just cruised out of a James Bond film, to larger, more relaxed boats perfect for groups.
For wedding groups, chartering a private boat is the way to go. This gives you complete control over the itinerary, the music (essential for setting the mood!), and, most importantly, the beverage situation. You can organize a pre-wedding cruise to welcome your guests, a post-wedding brunch on the water, or even incorporate a boat trip into the wedding day itself, transporting guests between venues in style.
One of the best things about a boat tour is that it offers a completely different perspective of the lake. You get to see those famous villas from the water, appreciating their grandeur in a way you just can’t from the shore. So, if you want to give your wedding guests a real taste of Lake Como magic – and create some memories that will last a lifetime – get them on a boat. You won’t regret it.
Seaplane for the weds-to-be
A seaplane? That’s next-level. It’s pure, unadulterated James Bond (again!) vibes, except instead of dodging villains, you’re taking in some seriously stunning scenery. I’ve seen a few folks take to the skies in these little floatplanes, and it’s always a spectacle. The roar of the engine, the splash as you take off from the water, and then…boom. You’re soaring above the lake, getting a bird’s-eye view of those iconic villas.
There’s a seaplane service that operates on Lake Como, Aero Club Como. They’ve been doing this for ages, so they know what they’re doing. You can book scenic tours of varying lengths – from a quick spin over the central lake area to longer flights that take you further afield. It’s not exactly cheap, but for a special occasion (like, say, a wedding or a pre-wedding treat), it’s worth considering.
Think about it: arriving at your wedding venue by seaplane? Talk about making an entrance. Or perhaps a pre-wedding flight for the wedding party, a chance to relax and take in the beauty of the area before the big day. You could even arrange a post-wedding flight for the newlyweds, a truly unforgettable start to their honeymoon. The photo opportunities alone are insane.
Water fun for the guests: Kayak and Windsurf
Now, Lake Como isn’t exactly known for its raging surf, which is actually a good thing. It means it’s perfect for kayaking, even if your guests’ idea of exercise is usually limited to walking from the sun lounger to the bar. There are loads of places around the lake where you can rent kayaks – single or double, depending on whether your guests are feeling romantic or just want to avoid paddling solo.
Windsurfing is where things get a bit more… adventurous. It’s not quite as beginner-friendly as kayaking, but if you’ve got some thrill-seeking guests (or those who secretly fancy themselves as the next Laird Hamilton), this is the way to go. There are schools and rental places dotted around the lake that offer lessons for all levels, from total newbies to seasoned pros.
Organizing a group kayaking or windsurfing session can be a really fun way to get your guests mingling and enjoying the lake. You could even turn it into a friendly competition (with suitably silly prizes, of course). It’s a great alternative to just sitting around, and it gives everyone something to talk about other than the seating arrangements. For detailed information see our dedicated guides about windsurf and kayak.
Let’s learn how to make Pasta: Cooking Classes
Let’s be honest, weddings are great, but sometimes you need a break from the formal attire and small talk about how you know the happy couple (third cousin twice removed, anyone?). That’s where a cooking class on Lake Como comes in – it’s the perfect way to inject some fun, interactive energy into your wedding festivities.
Now, I’m not suggesting you force your great-aunt Mildred into a pasta-making competition (unless she’s really into that sort of thing). But a well-organized cooking class can be a fantastic activity for a pre-wedding gathering, a relaxed afternoon during the wedding week, or even a fun send-off brunch.
There are a few different ways to approach this, depending on the size of your group and what kind of experience you’re after. You can find smaller, intimate classes in local kitchens or agriturismos (farmhouse restaurants). These often offer a more hands-on experience, where you’ll learn to make regional specialties like fresh pasta, risotto, or local fish dishes.
A Taste of Lake Como | Wedding Rehearsal Dinners
Set the stage for your Lake Como wedding with unforgettable meals. This section highlights the best dining experiences for rehearsal dinners, welcome receptions, and other pre-wedding gatherings.
Amazing views and amazing food in Briisa de Ness
Briisa de Ness, located in Nesso, with its focus on delicious food and beautiful lake views, offers a relaxed and charming setting for smaller wedding gatherings or pre-wedding events. The combination of Italian cuisine, lake fish, and pizza options caters to a variety of tastes, making it a good choice for diverse guest groups. The emphasis on hospitality and a positive atmosphere creates a welcoming environment for celebrations. Its budget-friendly pricing also makes it a practical option for casual wedding-related meals.
Change perspective at Shabu
While offering a diverse menu including Japanese and Italian cuisine, Shabu in Lecco might be best suited for smaller, informal wedding-related meals or gatherings of guests with specific dietary preferences. The availability of sushi, seafood, steakhouse options, and vegan choices ensures there’s something for everyone. However, its focus on fusion cuisine and casual dining might not be ideal for more formal wedding events. It’s a good option for a change of pace during a wedding week.
Original flavors in L’Antica Trattoria
L’Antica Trattoria, with its focus on traditional Italian recipes, seasonal gastronomy, and meat specialties cooked over an open fire, offers a rustic and authentic dining experience in Como. The welcoming atmosphere and emphasis on high-quality ingredients make it a suitable choice for rehearsal dinners or smaller wedding receptions seeking a traditional Italian feel. The focus on seasonal and local ingredients adds a special touch to the dining experience. Its budget-friendly pricing makes it accessible for various wedding budgets.
We hope this guide has helped you find suitable dining options for your Lake Como wedding. For a more extensive selection of restaurants and dining experiences, explore our full listing.
Lake Como Wedding Planning Checklist
Having seen a few of these lakeside celebrations go down, I’ve got a few tips to share – the kind of stuff you might not find in a generic wedding planning brochure.
- Book Early (Like, Really Early): Lake Como isn’t exactly a secret. It’s a popular spot, especially during peak season (which, let’s be honest, is most of the year). Venues, photographers, florists – they all book up fast. I’m talking months, sometimes even a year or more in advance.
- Weather Can Be a Wild Card (Even in Italy): it’s Italy, so you’d expect sunshine and blue skies all the time, right? Not always. Lake Como has its own microclimate, and while summers are generally warm and sunny, you can still get the occasional downpour.
- Don’t Underestimate the “Italian Time” (Patience is Key): things in Italy sometimes move at a slightly different pace than you might be used to. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing – it’s part of the charm. But it’s good to be aware of it, especially when dealing with vendors.
- Factor in the Cost (It Can Add Up Quickly): Lake Como is a luxury destination, and prices reflect that. Be realistic about your budget from the start. Things like venue rental, catering, and accommodation can be quite expensive.
Important for the guests: if you came from abroad and you travel to Lake Como on a plane, especially if you are at least two, I suggest to rent a car from the airport to save some money!
Your Lake Como Wedding Story Begins Here
Hopefully, this has given you some helpful ideas for planning your dream Lake Como wedding. From stunning venues to memorable experiences for your guests, there’s something for everyone. Now all that’s left is to finalize those plans and get ready for a truly unforgettable celebration. We wish you a wonderful wedding!
