Best Villas to Visit on Lake Como

Lake Como is not just a lake; it’s a legend. And a big part of that legend is the incredible collection of villas that line its shores. Grand estates, historic residences, and architectural marvels, the kind of places that make you feel like you’ve walked onto a movie set

Many of these villas are open to the public, allowing you to step inside and experience their grandeur firsthand.

Some are known for their botanical gardens, others for their art collections, and still others for their cinematic connections. So, if you’re planning a trip to Lake Como and want to experience the best of the best, this guide to the most remarkable villas is your perfect starting point.

Villa-Hopping on Lake Como: Architectural Wonders

Villa-hopping on Lake Como is a must-do, a chance to get up close and personal with these architectural marvels and imagine what it must be like to live like a true Italian aristocrat. It is more than just sightseeing; it’s an opportunity to experience the unique charm and elegance of this beautiful region. It’s a chance to step into another world, even if just for a few hours.

Key Villas You Absolutely Need to See

Villa del Balbianello

Originally a 17th-century monastery, Villa del Balbianello, in Lenno, has had a fascinating past, passing through the hands of various noble families. It was later transformed into a private residence in the 18th century and more recently gained fame as a film location for movies like Star Wars: Episode II and Casino Royale.

The terraced gardens are the absolute highlight. They’re meticulously maintained and offer stunning views of the lake from every angle. The loggia, with its wisteria and climbing fig, is particularly photogenic. It’s easy to see why filmmakers choose this spot; it’s practically designed for cinematic beauty.

The interiors are equally impressive, showcasing Monzino’s collection of maps, artifacts, and photographs from his travels. It gives you a real insight into the life of a fascinating adventurer. It’s not a huge space, so it maintains a certain intimacy.  

• Find your train/bus: options from Lecco
• Where to eat: Trattoria Santo Stefano, Grifo
• Where to stay: MUSA, Villa Ida, Grifo
• Recommended ticket bundle: here

Villa Carlotta

Located in Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta is a treat for both art and nature lovers. Built at the end of the 17th century, the villa takes its name from Princess Carlotta of Prussia, who received it as a wedding gift.

The botanical gardens are the main attraction. They’re home to a wide variety of plants, including azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias, creating a riot of color, especially in spring. The villa also houses a small museum with works of art, but it’s the gardens that truly steal the show.

Inside the villa, you can see works of art by famous artists like Canova and Hayez. The combination of art and nature makes Villa Carlotta a truly enriching experience.

• Find your train/bus: options from Como
• Where to eat: La Darsena, Enoteca Cantina Follie, Villa Carlotta Bistrot
• Where to stay: Villa Lina, Casa Lumaca, Da Sid
• Recommended ticket bundle: here

Villa Monastero

Located in Varenna, Villa Monastero was originally (as the name suggests) a Cistercian monastery in the 12th century. It later became a private residence and has undergone several transformations over the centuries.

The gardens of Villa Monastero are simply stunning, stretching for over a kilometer along the lakefront. They feature a variety of architectural elements, statues, and exotic plants. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

The villa itself is open to visitors and features beautifully decorated rooms with period furniture. It provides a fascinating look into the lives of the wealthy families who once lived here.

• Find your train/bus: options from Lecco
• Where to eat: La Baia, La Cambusa, Vecchia Varenna
• Where to stay: Casa Posta, Villa Lucia, Orange House
• Recommended ticket bundle: here

Villa Olmo

This grand neoclassical villa, Villa Olmo, was built in the late 18th century for the Odescalchi family. It’s now owned by the Municipality of Como and is used for exhibitions and events.

While the interior isn’t always open to the public, the exterior and the surrounding park are worth a visit. The imposing facade and the formal gardens create a sense of grandeur and history.

The park surrounding Villa Olmo offers beautiful views of the lake and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s a good place for a relaxing walk or a picnic. It is even a beach!

• Find your train/bus: options from Milan
• Where to eat: Feel Como, L’Antica Trattoria, Ristorante Sociale
• Where to stay: Officina Rooms, Room 34, La Corte Fiorita

Villa Melzi d’Eril

Built in the early 19th century for Francesco Melzi d’Eril, a close advisor to Napoleon, Villa Melzi in Bellagio boasts beautiful English-style gardens.

The gardens are a highlight, with their carefully planned layout, exotic plants, and sculptures. The Japanese garden and the orangery are particularly noteworthy.

The villa itself is also open to visitors and features elegant rooms with period furnishings. The combination of the villa and its gardens makes for a complete and enjoyable visit.

• Find your train/bus: options from Lecco then Ferry from Varenna
• Where to eat: La Breva, NANDO, Babayaga
• Where to stay: Liszt Attic, Lotus Apartment, Hotel Belvedere
• Recommended ticket bundle: here

Villa Erba

This 19th-century building, known as Villa Erba, was built for the Peluso family and later became the residence of the Erba family. It’s now a renowned conference and exhibition center. It is located in Cernobbio.

The villa’s grand facade and the surrounding park create an impressive sight. The interiors are often used for events, so access may be limited, but the exterior and the grounds are worth admiring.

It is well known for its role in the movie Ocean’s Twelve. It is also famous for hosting important events, including the Ambrosetti Forum.

• Find your train/bus: from Milan via Como
• Where to eat: Trattoria Laghee, Ristorante Kitchen (Michelin), Gatto Nero
• Where to stay: Villa Cernobbio, Casa Breggia, Hotel Asnigo

Villa Pizzo

With a history dating back to the 16th century, Villa Pizzo has been owned by several prominent families. It’s now a popular venue for weddings and private events. This Villa is in Cernobbio too.

The estate is known for its stunning lakefront location and its beautiful gardens that extend down to the water’s edge. It’s a picture-perfect setting.

While access to the interior is usually limited due to private events, the exterior and the views from the lake are still worth appreciating.

• Find your train/bus: from Milan via Como
• Where to eat: Restaurant Meat, Trattoria del Vapore, Casa Perrotta
• Where to stay: Hotel Terzo Crotto, Trattoria Laghee

Villa Serbelloni

This villa sits on the promontory that divides Lake Como’s two southern branches. Its gardens, which are open to the public, are terraced and offer spectacular views. Villa Serbelloni itself is now owned by the Rockefeller Foundation and used as a study and conference center.

The gardens are the main attraction here, with their varied landscaping, statues, and panoramic views of the lake. Due to its current use as a private center, access to the villa’s interior is restricted. However, the gardens alone make it a worthwhile visit.

• Find your train/bus: options from Lecco then Ferry from Varenna
• Where to eat: La Musa, La Punta, Trattoria San Giacomo
• Where to stay: Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

Limited time? Try a Boat Tour

Let’s be honest, sometimes vacations are a whirlwind. You want to see everything, but time is tight. If you’re visiting Lake Como and have a serious case of wanderlust but a limited schedule, a boat tour is your secret weapon for villa viewing. It’s the express lane to architectural admiration, allowing you to see a bunch of stunning estates without spending days navigating roads or waiting in queues.

The real beauty of a boat tour is that you can combine it with other activities, making the most of your time on the lake. Firsts come to mind are watersports. Many boat rental companies offer watersports equipment as an add-on, making it super easy to combine activities.

Another great solution to save some time and live something truly unique is having lunch on the boat, in the middle of the Lake. Some tour operators offer catering services, or you can even pack your own picnic. It’s a dining experience you won’t soon forget.

A boat tour is the perfect solution for seeing Lake Como’s best villas when time is short. It’s efficient, scenic, and a great way to experience the beauty of the lake without spending all your time on land.

Live them by yourself – Start booking now!

We hope this guide has provided you with the inspiration and information you need to create your own unforgettable villa-hopping adventure. Whether you choose to explore the grand estates by boat, wander through their gardens, or simply admire them from the lake’s edge, the villas of Lake Como are sure to leave a lasting impression.