Few places in Italy feel as effortlessly glamorous as Lake Como. Long before it became a favorite of film stars and royalty, its shores were lined with the summer homes of dukes, cardinals, and wealthy industrial families. Many of those grand villas are still here today, surrounded by gardens that tumble down to the water, and they remain one of the best reasons to visit the lake.
Here are the most beautiful historic villas of Lake Como, and the easiest way to enjoy them.
The Western Shore of Lake Como: Lenno and Tremezzina
Villa del Balbianello sits on a wooded peninsula near Lenno and is perhaps the most photographed villa on the lake. Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini commissioned it in the late 18th century, on the site of an old Franciscan monastery. Today it belongs to the FAI, Italy’s national trust, and welcomes visitors who arrive on foot or by water taxi. Film fans may recognize its elegant loggia from Star Wars and the James Bond film Casino Royale.
Villa La Cassinella shares the same peninsula and is one of the most exclusive private estates on the whole lake. Built in the late 19th century and beautifully restored, it can be reached only by boat and stays firmly closed to the public. You cannot step inside, but its terraced gardens make a spectacular sight from the water.
Villa Carlotta, a little further along the shore in Tremezzina, dates to the end of the 17th century. Inside you will find sculptures and paintings, while outside lies one of the finest botanical gardens in the region. Its grounds have protected rare plants for more than 300 years, and in spring the azaleas and rhododendrons burst into color.
Bellagio, the Pearl of the Lake Como
Villa Melzi was built between 1808 and 1810 for Francesco Melzi d’Eril, a close ally of Napoleon and Duke of Lodi. The villa is a private residence and stays closed, but its gardens open from spring to autumn. They stretch for roughly 800 meters along the shoreline, shaded by plane trees and dotted with statues.
Villa Placida, in the quiet San Giovanni corner of Bellagio, is an elegant lakeside residence from the end of the 19th century. It remains a private home rather than a public attraction, so like several of its neighbors it is best admired from a passing boat.
Cernobbio, Near Como City
Villa Erba rose at the close of the 19th century thanks to Luigi Erba, heir to one of Italy’s first great pharmaceutical fortunes. It later became the childhood summer home of the film director Luchino Visconti. Today it works as an exhibition and conference center, and its museum, the Rooms of Luchino Visconti, can be visited on special occasions and by reservation.
Foto di Alejandro Aznar da Pexels
Villa Bernasconi, also in Cernobbio, is a rare Lake Como example of Art Nouveau, known in Italy as Stile Liberty. Built between 1905 and 1906 for the silk manufacturer Davide Bernasconi, its facade is decorated with silkworms and mulberry leaves as a nod to the family trade. Unlike most villas here, you can step right inside, since it now works as a lively “talking house” museum.
The Easiest Way to See Them
You may notice a pattern: many of these villas were designed to face the water, and several can only be admired from it. Gliding past their gardens by boat is something you simply cannot do by car.
That is exactly what our Best of Lake Como and Como, Lugano Bellagio day tours offer. Departing from Milan, you enjoy an exclusive private boat cruise toward Bellagio, drifting past these opulent villas along the way, with free time in Bellagio and if you wish to attend the tour with Lugano adding also a relaxed stop in Swiss Lugano to finish. It is a scenic way to see the very best of the lake in a single day.
Last but not least…
Can you visit the historic villas on Lake Como?
Some, yes. Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Bernasconi open their doors to the public, while others, such as Villa Melzi, open only their gardens. Always check each villa’s official website for current opening days before you go.
Which Lake Como villas can only be seen from the water?
Villa La Cassinella and Villa Placida are private residences that are not open to visitors, so the only way to admire them is from a boat on the lake.
Which is the most beautiful villa on Lake Como?
Villa del Balbianello is the most famous for its dramatic peninsula setting, while Villa Carlotta is loved for its botanical gardens. The “most beautiful” really comes down to whether you prefer architecture, flowers, or a great story.
What is the best way to see Lake Como’s villas?
By boat. Most of the great villas were built to be admired from the water, so a lake cruise reveals views you cannot get from the road.
When do the villa gardens open?
Most gardens open roughly from March to October, though exact dates change each year. Confirm on each villa’s official site before visiting.
