THE BEAUTY OF VILLA BALBIANELLO: LAKE COMO’S MOST BEAUTIFUL GEM

Villa Balbianello: A Must-See on Lake Como

If you’re visiting Lake Como, make sure to add Villa Balbianello to your list. Located on the tip of the Lavedo peninsula in Lenno, this stunning villa is famous for its breathtaking terraced gardens and elegant structure. The views from the villa are unforgettable, overlooking Isola Comacina and the western shore of Lake Como.

A Piece of Hollywood on Lake Como

Villa Balbianello is not just a historical landmark. It’s also a popular location for private events like weddings and ceremonies. Its charm has even caught the attention of Hollywood, with scenes from Star Wars: Attack of the Clones and Casino Royale filmed here.

What Makes Villa Balbianello Special?

The villa is made up of two residential buildings, a church, and the iconic Loggia Durini, which is a favorite spot for hosting weddings and events. But what truly sets Villa Balbianello apart is its magnificent garden. The holm oaks, pruned into umbrella shapes, offer stunning views of Lake Como.

The villa’s interior is just as impressive. Accessible only through guided tours, it features 17th and 18th-century English and French furnishings, paintings on glass, and a rich collection of sculptures and artifacts. Many of these items belonged to Guido Monzino, the villa’s former owner and the first Italian to lead an expedition to Mount Everest. You can also find personal items from his explorations, including one of the sleds he used to reach the North Pole.

You can see the full list of prices, opening times and so on on Villa Balbianello’s official website.
Entry price in 2024 was: 13€ for adults for just the garden, and 24€ for the Villa and garden.

How to Get to Villa Balbianello?

Villa Balbianello is only accessible on foot or by boat. You can take a 1 km walk with an uphill section that can be covered in about 25 minutes from Via degli Artigiani or hop on a taxi boat from Lenno beach for about €8 roundtrip. Lenno is easy to reach by boat or by taking the C10 bus from other lake towns.

If you choose the boat option it is a very good idea to buy tickets in advance to avoid having to wait in line to buy them. Use Navigazione Laghi’ website to easily buy tickets, and also see the up-to date boat schedule.

If you are in car the closest parking is “Parcheggio Mercato” Via degli Artigiani, close to Lido di Lenno otherwise try Via Diaz or Via Silvio Pellico. Parking can be difficult during the summer because you are not the only ones wanting to visit Lenno.

You could also modify my day trip guide from Milano to Lake Como to include Villa Balbianello instead of maybe going to Bellagio, or staying as long in Como as i suggest in that guide.

The Rich History of Villa Balbianello

Built in the late 18th century by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini, Villa Balbianello stands on the site of a former Franciscan monastery. After the cardinal’s death, the villa passed to Count Luigi Porro Lambertenghi, his grandson. Later, the villa was owned by Marquis Giuseppe Arconati Visconti, who hosted well-known intellectuals like Alessandro Manzoni.

In 1919, Butler Ames, an American businessman, restored the villa to its original glory. In 1974, Guido Monzino purchased Villa Balbianello and filled it with treasures from his expeditions. Upon his death in 1988, the villa was donated to FAI (Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano), which still maintains it today.

Villa Balbianello is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Lake Como. Its stunning gardens, rich history, and breathtaking views make it one of the most iconic spots in the area. Plan your visit and enjoy a unique experience at this enchanting villa.