Lake Como is one of the most romantic and luxurious wedding destinations in the world, offering a mix of historic villas, stunning lake views and gardens. Here are some of the top wedding venues on Lake Como.
Villa Erba (Cernobbio) - Timeless Elegance on your wedding day
Villa Erba is a grand 19th-century mansion, built in the neoclassical style, with impressive frescoes, intricate moldings, and marble floors. Originally designed as a residence for the aristocratic Erba family, it has a rich history. Villa’s architecture exudes elegance and timelessness, with expansive indoor spaces ideal for grand celebrations.
The villa is surrounded by gardens, offering a beautiful mix of classical elements with carefully curated greenery, flower beds, and century-old trees. The garden's proximity to Lake Como ensures that your wedding will take place against an awe-inspiring backdrop of the lake and surrounding mountains. The atmosphere is majestic and romantic, perfect for large gatherings looking to combine nature and history.
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Capacity: The venue can accommodate up to 450 guests, making it suitable for both intimate gatherings and large celebrations.
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Ceremony Options: Villa Erba offers symbolic ceremonies, which can be held outdoors on the lakeside lawn or in front of the villa's façade. For larger groups, a platform over the pier can be arranged to create a grand ceremony area above the water.
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Accommodation: Villa Erba does not offer on-site accommodation. However, there are numerous hotels nearby eg: the Hilton and the Sheraton only minutes away.
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Access: Villa is accessible by road; guests can also arrive via the villa's private dock.
Villa Pizzo (Cernobbio) - A Peaceful Waterside Escape for Saying “I Do”
Villa Pizzo is a historic gem dating back to the 18th century. Its architecture is characterized by elegant classical elements and beautiful frescoed ceilings. The villa has witnessed countless events and served as a gathering place for prominent families, adding a layer of aristocratic charm. Its interior boasts grand reception halls adorned with artworks, adding to its refined character.
The gardens surrounding Villa Pizzo are expansive and lush, offering a variety of landscapes including terraced areas, a beautiful fountain, and wide lawns that lead to the lake. The intimate, yet grand atmosphere created by the villa’s botanical gardens and setting on the shores of Lake Como make it a perfect venue for a wedding that feels both elegant and secluded. The outdoor ceremony space- The Darsana, is a terrace right on top of the lake , providing an unforgettable setting for the ceremony.
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Capacity: It offers versatile spaces suitable for both small intimate weddings and larger celebrations. There is a glass gazebo where guests can dine and fits up tp 160 guests sitted, more if it is a stand up party.
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Ceremony Options: Symbolic ceremonies can be held at the villa's lakeside terrace or in its gardens.
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Accommodation: Villa does not offer on-site accommodation, but there are several luxury hotels located nearby.
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Access: Villa is accessible by road through mini vans, guests can also arrive at Villa Pizzo via its private 19th-century dock, offering a dramatic entrance by boat.
Villa del Balbianello (Lenno) - A Cinematic Jewel Overlooking Lake Como
Villa del Balbianello is a stunning 18th-century villa with a rich history. Built by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini, the villa boasts an elegant mix of neoclassical and baroque architectural styles. Its grandiose yet serene design is perfectly complemented by its lakefront location. The villa is famous for its cinematic appearances, including being a key location in James Bond: Casino Royale and Star wars.
The villa is known for its immaculate terraced gardens, which cascade down toward the water, offering panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding hills. The gardens are a combination of Mediterranean and Italian-style landscaping, with lush greenery, ornamental flowers, and elegant sculptures. An ideal location for a small, intimate wedding. The picturesque setting and tranquil vibes evoke a timeless sense of romance.
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Capacity: Up to 80 guests the ideal number. Above 50 guests it is mandatory to hire an extension marquee. If you were 100 or more then dinner can be held at the lower terrace, under the big iconic tree by hiring a platform and gazebo and paying the venue fee for multiple days as it will take longer for all the set up and dismantling.
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Ceremony Options: Civil, religious blessings and symbolic ceremonies can be held in the villa's Loggia Durini. Up to 60 guests only can be sitted here.
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Accommodation: The villa does not offer overnight accommodations. Couples often stay at nearby hotels like the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, which offers boat transfers to the villa.
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Access: The villa is accessible exclusively by boat, enhancing its secluded and romantic atmosphere. Guests typically arrive via private boat from nearby towns such as Lenno or Tremezzo.
Villa Sola Cabiati (Tremezzo) - Baroque Beauty and Lakeside Majesty
Villa Sola Cabiati is a magnificent 16th-century villa, once home to the aristocratic Sola family. It has a distinctive Baroque architectural style, with ornate frescoes, marble staircases, and richly decorated interiors. The villa has been impeccably restored to preserve its historical grandeur while also offering modern amenities. Its elegance and history make it a stunning backdrop for any event.
The gardens are equally impressive, with perfectly manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and century-old trees. The outdoor terraces provide sweeping views of the lake, while the Italian garden offers a more intimate setting. Villa Sola Cabiati exudes an atmosphere of sophistication and luxury, making it a wonderful choice for couples looking for a regal yet serene venue. The villa’s exclusivity and historic grandeur create a romantic and refined setting for a wedding.
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Capacity: The villa can host up to 50 guests for weddings and events. Usually events can be held here only in low season.
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Ceremony Options: The Italian Garden provides picturesque settings for symbolic ceremonies.
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Accommodation: 6 suites for up to 12 guests; and as part of the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, guests can enjoy accommodations at the hotel, which offers luxurious rooms and amenities.
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Access: Accessible by road and also private boat dock.
Villa Bonomi (Como) - Intimate, historic villa with a modern twist
Villa Bonomi is a historic villa with a more intimate, charming and a modern twist atmosphere. It was once a country house and has retained much of its vintage character. The architecture is simple yet elegant, with traditional Italian design elements, such as rustic stone facades and classic arched windows. Though it’s not as large as some of the other villas, its cozy, warm feel makes it ideal for smaller, more intimate weddings.
The villa’s gardens are beautifully landscaped with lush greenery, flowers, and quiet pathways that wind around the property. The gardens offer stunning views of the water and mountains, creating an intimate atmosphere that feels both private and romantic. Villa is a perfect choice for couples seeking an exclusive, elegant wedding setting.
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Capacity: The villa can host up to 60 guests.
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Ceremony Options: Symbolic ceremonies. There are multiple green areas and one with a panoramic lake views perfect for ceremonies.
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Accommodation: The villa offers 11 elegant suites, each with stunning views of Lake Como or the surrounding park. These suites are spread across three floors, ensuring comfort and luxury for guests.
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Access: Accessible only by road with mini vans.
Villa Lario Resort (Mandello del Lario) - Contemporary Luxury with a Lakeside Retreat
Villa Lario Resort is a more modern take on the classic Italian lakeside villa. While its exterior retains a traditional Italian style, the interior has been renovated to offer contemporary luxury and comfort. The villa combines the elegance of classical architecture with the convenience and amenities of modern hospitality, creating a seamless fusion of old and new.
Surrounded by lush, manicured gardens and rolling hills, Villa Lario Resort offers a serene and relaxing environment. Its lakeside position ensures stunning views of the water and the surrounding mountains. The villa features a blend of outdoor spaces, from the lakeside terraces to the private gardens. The atmosphere here is one of refined luxury, combining the beauty of nature with modern elegance.
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Capacity: The villa's outdoor terrace and indoors incase of rain has a capacity of 110 guests seated. By adding a marquee, the capacity increases to 170 guests.
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Ceremony Options: Symbolic ceremonies that can be held on the helipad area. Mandatory to hire a marquee as a plan B, when it rains.
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Accommodation: The villa offers 9 luxury suites, each uniquely designed, some with private gardens or lake views. These can accommodate up to 18 guests. Additional accommodations are available in the nearby towns, for example in Varenna.
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Access: Accessible by road; guests can also arrive by boat to the villa's private boat dock, adding a unique touch to the event.
Each of these villas offers a unique and enchanting setting for a wedding, ranging from the grand and historical to the intimate and exclusive. Whether you’re drawn to the cinematic appeal of Villa del Balbianello, the classical elegance of Villa Erba, or the modern charm of Villa Lario Resort, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking architecture, breathtaking gardens and an atmosphere that perfectly captures the romance of Lake Como.
If you need more detailed information or assistance in selecting the perfect venue for your special day, feel free to contact us.
Say I Do in Lake Como!
With love,
Zaira
