THE TOP COVETED WEDDING VENUES ON LAKE COMO
Lake Como, located in the breathtaking Italian Alps, has long been hailed as one of the most romantic destinations in the world. With its picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns, it’s no wonder that Lake Como has become a coveted wedding destination. If you’re planning your dream wedding and seeking an idyllic backdrop for your special day, look no further.
Long story short, ladies and gents, Lake Como is the ultimate wedding destination in Italy (if not the world), so if you want an occasion that will blow your guests away, this is the place to be. Exuding endless Italian elegance with an array of chic villas, head-turning backdrops and divine culture, you should without a doubt add Lake Como to the very top of your destination wedding list.
As a luxury wedding designer, I’ve been lucky enough to explore Lake Como’s dreamiest backdrops and have whipped up a guide to the 10 best wedding venues on Lake Como.
Keep scrolling and soak up all the Italian wedding inspiration you could ever need…
Roman Ivanov
Photo Credit: Grand Hotel Tremezzo
GRAND HOTEL TREMEZZO
For couples dreaming of a luxurious lakeside wedding, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a dream come true – it is no wonder that it is Greta Garbo’s favourite hotel across the globe. It is one of those places that has to be seen to be believed – and upon visiting, I was effortlessly swept up in the romance of the setting.
This five-star hotel combines old-world glamour with modern comforts, offering captivating views, 84 lavish suites, and impeccable service. This Italian wedding venue is family-owned, and they have been running it for over 40 years – so rest assured, their unrivalled team promises a flawless experience for your destination wedding.
From its ideal location, I enjoyed daily trips to Lake Como’s iconic and historical spots with an exclusive motorboat service – which is perfect if you have guests who want to explore. With its private beach, lakeside terrace, and opulent ballrooms, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo is an ideal venue for an extravagant celebration where you can spend the weekend (or even a week) indulging in an unforgettable experience with your favourite people.
Photo credit: Hotel Villa Cipressi
HOTEL VILLA CIPRESSI
Hotel Villa Cipressi, hidden on the shores of Lake Como, is the epitome of romance for couples embarking on their wedding journey. With its stunning botanical gardens, unrivalled views, and impeccable service, it provides an enchanting backdrop for a truly unforgettable celebration of love.
The hotel’s elegant architecture and luxurious accommodations ensure a memorable stay for the couple and their guests. BUT it doesn’t end at the architecture – their onsite spa has been thoughtfully designed with privacy and relaxation in mind so that every couple can indulge in a pamper ahead of the big day.
From the moment I arrived, I believed this to be one of the most sought-after settings to say, ‘I Do’. As I thoughtfully wandered around and explored every inch of this luxury Italian wedding venue, I knew my couples would be spoilt with wedding photograph backdrops aplenty.
Hotel Villa Cipressi is a dream destination for couples seeking an intimate and romantic wedding experience amidst the beauty of Lake Como, with 31 decadent bedrooms and even the option for a civil ceremony.
Roman Ivanov
HOTEL VILLA D’ESTE
Renowned for its grandeur and elegance, Villa d’Este is a luxurious 16th-century palace set amid lush gardens and lake views.
The opulent interiors, adorned with frescoes and antique furnishings, create an atmosphere of regal romance. With its exceptional service and Michelin-starred cuisine, Villa d’Este promises an unforgettable wedding experience – not to mention a beautiful backdrop for an enchanting alfresco wedding ceremony in the garden – where you’ll have a total Instagram-worthy backdrop.
Whether you choose to get married indoors or outdoors, you’ll be spoilt with the capacity for up to 200 guests to witness you say your vows. Located in Cernobbio on the shores of Lake Como, this iconic hotel wedding venue has seen an array of wealthy visitors and world-famous celebrities.
And of course, while I was visiting, it would have been impossible for me not to enjoy a dip in their unique floating pool. It is no wonder that Forbes once deemed the location as the best hotel in the world.
Photo credit: Mandarin Oriental
MANDARIN ORIENTAL
One of my favourite wedding venues in Lake Como, the Mandarin Oriental instantly captured my heart and I have no doubt it’ll have the same effect on you.
The rumours are true – it really is an exquisite destination for couples seeking an unparalleled wedding experience. Perfectly perched on the pristine shores of Lake Como, this luxurious hotel offers a seamless blend of sophistication, natural beauty, and impeccable service. With its heart-stopping views of the lake and surrounding mountains, the Mandarin Oriental provides a truly idyllic setting for a romantic wedding celebration, including the option of a civil ceremony.
The Amphitheatre and the Empire Hall both promise a mesmerising setting to tie the knot – you can take my word for it! From intimate ceremonies in the picturesque gardens to grand receptions in the elegant ballroom, the hotel offers a range of stunning venues to suit every couple’s vision. Plus, the hotel’s luxurious accommodations, spa facilities, and an array of recreational activities provide a perfect retreat for the couple and their guests to relax and indulge in during their stay.
A wedding at the Mandarin Oriental in Lake Como promises a truly magical experience that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Photo Credit: Villa Balbiano
VILLA BALBIANO
Villa Balbiano, set on the shores of Lake Como, is a captivating haven that promises an enchanting wedding experience for couples. With its rich history, elegant architecture, and beautiful surroundings, this magnificent villa exudes romance and grandeur. From the moment I stepped onto the villa’s grounds, I was transported to a world of timeless beauty. The meticulously manicured gardens, adorned with vibrant flowers and ancient trees, provide a picturesque setting for exchanging vows. The terrace overlooking the shimmering lake offers a stunning backdrop for an intimate ceremony or a lavish reception – you really will be spoilt for choice here.
Villa Balbiano’s opulent interiors, adorned with exquisite frescoes, antique furniture, and intricate detailing, create a sense of old-world charm and sophistication. The villa’s luxurious suites and guest accommodations ensure a comfortable stay for the couple and their loved ones. Not to mention an alluring backdrop for a bridal boudoir shoot ahead of the big day! And if you didn’t already know, the villa works hand-in-hand with fashion, having hosted the fascinating campaign of Versace’s house as well as having the movie House of Gucci filmed here.
Plus, this Lake Como wedding venue boasts a private boat dock, where you and your guests can arrive in total style – the ultimate grand arrival. As I explored, I quickly came to the realisation that the lakeside garden was my favourite ceremony spot, but there are plenty of options for weddings of all different sizes. From a secret garden celebration with just 70 guests, on the main terrace with a stunning lake view for 300 guests or the country yard (complete with a pool) for 500 guests. And of course, it comes with the benefit of a license for a civil wedding.
Belonging to The Heritage Collection along with Villa Astor, a wedding at Villa Balbiano is an experience that transcends time, where couples are immersed in the beauty and elegance of Lake Como, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Photo Credit: The Wedding Tale
VILLA DEL BALBIANELLO
I arrived at Villa del Balbianello by boat – because this is the only way you can get there (just think about that all-important newlywed shoot on the river). This iconic wedding venue in Lake Como has the advantage of no neighbours and therefore, no interruptions and total privacy – a rarity in Italy. So, if you want a wild party where you can celebrate late into the night, this is the perfect place for you. There are two equally exquisite venues to choose from, with space for 60 – 150 guests and a license to host a civil wedding ceremony.
After exploring the location, I noted that I had spotted Villa del Balbianello in an array of famous movies, such as Casino Royale and even Star Wars. The venue has also hosted writers, scholars and travellers over the years, bringing you a rich history that is just asking to be unravelled. With its immaculately manicured gardens, terraces adorned with fragrant flowers, and stunning panoramic views, this 18th-century villa offers an enchanting setting for your wedding.
The villa’s timeless beauty has been featured in several films, adding an extra touch of magic to your special day.
Photo Credit: Theresa Kelly
VILLA ERBA
Next up on my list of Lake Como wedding venues to explore was Villa Erba – somewhere I had always wanted to see for myself.
Located in the charming town of Cernobbio, Villa Erba offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty in the form of a majestic 19th Century villa. As well as offering famous filming locations for movies and music videos, it is renowned as one of Italy’s most mesmerising settings. The expansive estate boasts magnificent gardens, a stunning lakeside terrace, and elegant interiors.
Whether you choose to exchange vows in the gardens or in one of the villa’s opulent halls (with capacity for up to 450 guests) Villa Erba provides an exquisite backdrop for your wedding. It is accessible by boat – which is perhaps one of Villa Erba’s most memorable charms.
I must admit, I found it hard to leave Villa Erba behind and I’m already very excited to explore it once again…
Photo Credit: Roman Ivanov
VILLA PIZZO
If there is a wedding venue in Lake Como that will make your heart skip a beat, it’s Villa Pizzo, one of the oldest villas in the area.
Offering capacity for up to 200 guests on the Stone Terrace and surrounding vibrant gardens, you’ll be able to enjoy the complete exclusivity of its uninterrupted beauty. It has quickly become one of the most desirable destinations to get married in the entirety of Italy, having hosted many famous celebrity weddings. In fact, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen tied the knot here, amongst a glittering guest list including Kanye West and Stevie Wonder.
With its breathtaking location and stunning architecture, Villa Pizzo captures the essence of romance and sophistication. The decadent interiors are just made for a pre- or post-wedding shoot, such as a fashion-focused boudoir editorial. The rooms were just filled with details and décor that I wanted to recreate! In fact, I fell head over heels in love with the blush pink room, featuring renowned ornamental designs and colour palettes.
It’s safe to say that this is one truly stunning setting to say, ‘I Do’…
Photo Credit: Villa Pliniana
VILLA PLINIANA
Managed by the team at Hotel II Sereno, Villa Pliniana has a colourful and wealthy history to its name, having been originally built between 1573 – 77.
Your exquisite wedding celebration can be hosted in either the Salone Rossini and Bellini (which has space for 100 seated guests) or the outdoor Terrace (with room for up to 120 guests) – both of which are licensed for civil ceremonies. Surrounded by lush gardens and ancient trees, this majestic villa offers a private chapel, a lakeside terrace, and luxurious accommodations.
Villa Pliniana’s timeless beauty and secluded atmosphere create an ethereal setting for a truly unforgettable wedding celebration.
And as I worked my way around this enchanting wedding venue on Lake Como, I was caught up more and more in its beauty…
Photo Credit: Sotiris Tsakanikas
VILLA SOLA CABIATI
A hidden gem on the shores of Lake Como, I made my way to Villa Sola Cabiati, a magnificent villa and wedding venue that is enveloped in history and surrounded by beauty. The villa’s richly decorated interiors, adorned with antique furnishings, intricate frescoes, and grand chandeliers, exude opulence and charm – I discovered something magical everywhere I looked. Villa Sola Cabiati is the perfect setting for your guests to enjoy the lifestyle of Italian nobility, indulging in impeccable five-star hospitality – where the two limousine boats are just the very beginning!
I enjoyed a tour of this stunning wedding venue on Lake Como, soaking up the inspiration and spaces within the villa, such as the beautifully manicured gardens or the ornate ballroom, to create the perfect ambience for a wedding ceremony and reception. With a prime location, I found it incredibly easy to reach the venue. In fact, it’s just a five-minute ride by boat or car from the Grand and the city of Tremezzina.
Staying true to its historic heritage, the villa offers luxurious accommodations for up to 12 people in 6 suites, along with air conditioning and WiFi. However, certain elements of Villa Sola Cabiati stay frozen in time, where you can be transported to years gone by. Meanwhile, the marble balconies and original glass chandeliers allowed me to fully immerse myself in the elegance of the setting. With space for up to 70 guests, an intimate civil wedding at Villa Sola Cabiati promises to be a truly unforgettable experience.
Photo Credit: Villa Pliniana
Lake Como’s irresistible charm makes it an ideal destination for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.
Whether you envision a grand affair or an intimate celebration, the 10 Lake Como wedding venues that I toured offer the perfect blend of elegance, romance, and natural splendour. Each venue on Lake Como has its unique allure, but they all share a commitment to providing couples with a truly magical setting to say “I do.”
Whichever venue you choose, your wedding on Lake Como is bound to be an extraordinary celebration of love against a backdrop of Italian beauty…