A fairytale villa on Lake Como, known for its gardens and cinematic history.

Explore Villa del Balbianello and its stunning gardens.

4.7 Rating out of 5
12.689 Reviews on Google
15 € From a ticket
Photos
Foto del bene

Foto Alessio Mesiano_2010_(C) FAI - Fondo Ambiente Italiano

In short

What Villa del Balbianello is

Villa del Balbianello is located in Tremezzina, Province of Como, and is renowned for its magnificent gardens and for being a filming location for famous movies like James Bond and Star Wars. Situated on a promontory overlooking Lake Como, the villa offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Originally built as a leisure retreat, the villa is surrounded by manicured gardens that attract visitors from around the world. Guests can stroll through the terraces and flower-lined paths, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the place.

The villa is accessible both on foot, with a 20-30 minute uphill walk from Lenno, and by taxi boat, which offers a quicker journey and a unique view of the villa from the water.

The tickets

Tickets for Villa del Balbianello

Its origins

The history

Commissioned in the late by Cardinale Durini, Villa del Balbianello was conceived as a literary and pleasure retreat. In more recent times, the property was acquired by Guido Monzino, an entrepreneur and collector. In 1974, Monzino transformed the villa into a personal refuge, preserving the memories of his adventures, including his historic achievement of being the first Italian to reach the summit of Everest.

How you visit

The visit

Visiting Villa del Balbianello requires booking in advance, as it is a very popular destination. It is recommended to purchase tickets months in advance to secure entry. The visit to the villa's park lasts about an hour and includes access to the gardens.

To reach the villa, you can choose to walk a 20-30 minute uphill path from Lenno or opt for a taxi boat that takes you directly to the villa's private wharf. The entrance is also accessible to people with disabilities thanks to a dedicated entrance.

Inside the villa, visitors can explore the decorated rooms and corridors, although some spaces can be tight when crowded. There is no air conditioning, so visiting in spring or autumn is advisable to avoid excessive heat.

When it opens

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday 10:00–18:00
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 10:00–18:00
Friday 10:00–18:00
Saturday 10:00–18:00
Sunday 10:00–18:00

Hours from the Google record, current as of publication.

The reviews

What visitors say

Visitors often praise the gardens of Villa del Balbianello, describing them as some of the most beautiful they have ever seen. Many also appreciate the panoramic views of Lake Como, offering a perfect opportunity for photography.

Reviews highlight the importance of booking in advance, as the villa is a very popular destination. Some visitors recommend arriving by boat to enjoy a unique perspective of the villa from the water.

The location

Where it is

22016 Tremezzina, Como

Around here

What's nearby

Eat nearby

See nearby

Photos by Giulietta al Lago - Lenno, Matteo Cattaneo, Marija F, La Balbiana, Campeggio La' Vedo con ristorante/pizzeria, Vinum Wine Shop, antoni stolorz, Michele Mastrapasqua, Massimo Franscella, SLATT, Gianni Miglietta, via Google.

Questions

Questions about visiting

Is it necessary to book tickets in advance?

Yes, it is recommended to book tickets months in advance.

How can you reach Villa del Balbianello?

You can reach it on foot from Lenno or by taxi boat.

Is the villa accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, there is an accessible entrance for people with disabilities.