A journey through history, art and lakeside gardens
Lake Como is world-renowned for its magnificent historic villas—elegant estates that tell centuries of history and remain among the area’s most captivating attractions.
Along the eastern shore and in destinations easily reached by ferry, you’ll discover beautiful residences surrounded by botanical gardens, overlooking the lake and framed by breathtaking landscapes that have inspired artists, writers and travellers from around the world.
Here are some of the villas you shouldn’t miss during your stay on Lake Como.
Villa Monastero – Varenna
Among Lake Como’s most iconic villas, Villa Monastero is an unmissable destination.
Originally founded as a Cistercian monastery in the 12th century and later transformed into an elegant noble residence, it is now home to a museum and one of Europe’s most spectacular botanical gardens.
The gardens stretch for more than one kilometre along the lakeshore, featuring palms, cedars, agaves, statues, panoramic terraces and botanical species from all over the world.
It is one of the most photographed places on Lake Como and a wonderful destination to visit in every season.
Villa Cipressi – Varenna
Just a short walk from Villa Monastero lies Villa Cipressi, an elegant complex of historic buildings that has been transformed into a luxury hotel.
Its terraced gardens, open to visitors, descend gracefully towards the lake through Mediterranean plants, exotic species and scenic viewpoints offering extraordinary views over the central basin of Lake Como.
The visit is relatively short and can easily be combined with a stroll through Varenna’s charming historic centre.
https://www.rcollectionhotels.it/villa-cipressi
Villa Carlotta – Tremezzo
Easily reached by ferry from Varenna, Villa Carlotta is one of Lake Como’s most celebrated historic residences.
Built at the end of the 17th century, it houses masterpieces by artists such as Antonio Canova and Bertel Thorvaldsen. However, it is its magnificent botanical gardens that attract visitors from all over the world.
In spring, the spectacular blooms of azaleas and rhododendrons create an unforgettable display, while throughout the year the gardens offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Villa Melzi – Bellagio
Located at the entrance to Bellagio, Villa Melzi d’Eril is best known for its magnificent gardens.
The walking route winds through centuries-old trees, camellias, azaleas, sculptures, ornamental ponds and spectacular lakeside viewpoints, making it one of the most beloved attractions on Lake Como.
Although the private residence is not open to visitors, the gardens are considered one of the most beautiful walks on the lake.
https://www.giardinidivillamelzi.it
Photo credits: Lombardia Secrets
Villa del Balbianello – Lenno
Among the most iconic landmarks on Lake Como is undoubtedly Villa del Balbianello, located on the tip of the Lenno peninsula.
Managed today by the FAI – Italian National Trust, the villa is renowned for its impeccably maintained gardens, panoramic terraces and its role as a filming location for internationally acclaimed movies such as Star Wars and Casino Royale.
It can be reached either on foot or by boat, making the arrival itself part of the experience.
https://fondoambiente.it/luoghi/villa-del-balbianello
An itinerary through lake Como’s historic villas
Many of these historic villas can easily be visited in a single day thanks to the ferry connections linking Varenna, Bellagio, Tremezzo and Lenno.
Starting from the eastern shore, you can create an itinerary that combines history, art, botanical beauty and breathtaking scenery, allowing you to experience Lake Como from a unique perspective while discovering some of its most iconic landmarks.
For those looking for an even more exclusive experience, Hotel Promessi Sposi in Malgrate offers its Luxury Boat Experience aboard a private Cranchi E30 Endurance. Guests can reach Lake Como’s most beautiful historic villas while cruising across the lake on a fully customised itinerary, avoiding the schedules of public ferries and enjoying the journey in complete comfort. Upon request, the hotel’s team can also arrange the purchase of entrance tickets to the villas, allowing guests to simply relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about the planning. (https://hotelpromessisposi.it/en/esperienze/).
Whether you choose to travel by ferry or by private boat, visiting the historic villas of Lake Como means immersing yourself in a unique heritage of art, architecture, magnificent gardens and breathtaking landscapes that have captivated visitors from around the world for centuries.
