When you think of Lake Como, you picture elegance, timeless beauty, and cinematic charm.
Now imagine having a Villa Balbianello wedding, one of the most breathtaking venues in all of Italy, a place where nature, architecture, and history merge into a dream.
After photographing dozens of destination weddings across Italy, I can confidently say that Villa Balbianello offers one of the most extraordinary experiences you can imagine, not only for couples but for every guest lucky enough to be there.
Why Villa Balbianello is a destination wedding icon
Perched on a private peninsula in Lenno, on the western shore of Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello is pure magic.
Built in the 18th century by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini, it later became the home of explorer Guido Monzino, whose adventurous spirit still seems to echo through its rooms and gardens. Today it belongs to the Italian heritage foundation FAI and continues to inspire couples from all over the world.
But what really makes it so unique for a wedding?
- Arrival by boat. It’s impossible not to feel the thrill of approaching the villa from the water — a cinematic entrance that sets the tone for the entire day.
- The view. Mountains, lake, and gardens in perfect harmony. Every angle feels designed for beauty.
- The history. From Star Wars to James Bond, its terraces have hosted legends. Now, it’s ready to host yours.
Location, access & logistics to Villa Balbianello
Where: Lenno, Lake Como (Italy’s Lombardy region)
How to get there: The most memorable way to arrive is by boat from the small harbor of Lenno — just a 5-minute ride that becomes part of the experience.
For your guests, plan transfers from Milan Malpensa or Linate airports to Como or directly to Lenno. Boat shuttles can then bring them to the villa.
Best season: From late April to early October — the light, the temperature, and the gardens are at their best.
Pro tip: If you’re dreaming of those signature golden-hour shots on the terrace, plan your ceremony around 5–6 PM in summer. The light at that hour is pure perfection.
Spaces and capacity
Villa del Balbianello offers several breathtaking spots for your ceremony and reception:
Loggia Durini
The most iconic area of the villa — ideal for symbolic ceremonies or intimate dinners with a view over both sides of the lake.
Capacity: around 60 guests for dinner.
Terrace on the Lake
For larger celebrations, this is the perfect open-air location. With a marquee, it can host up to 150 guests while maintaining the villa’s elegance and intimacy.
The Gardens
Ideal for cocktail hours, portraits, and small gatherings. Every path, every stone step feels designed for photography.
Budget & planning considerations
Let’s be honest — Villa del Balbianello is not a “budget” venue. But it’s worth every dollar.
Here’s what to expect:
- Full wedding celebrations with 80–100 guests often range between $130,000 and $280,000, depending on catering, logistics, and décor.
- Larger or fully exclusive weddings can go higher, but they also deliver a once-in-a-lifetime experience that no other venue can replicate.
My advice:
Book early (12–18 months in advance) and work with a planner familiar with the villa. It will make the process smoother and allow you to focus on what really matters — enjoying your day.
Photography & videography insights
As a destination wedding photographer with 20 years of experience, I can tell you that Villa del Balbianello is a visual playground.
Every corner offers something special, from the manicured gardens to the sweeping arches of the Loggia.
Here’s how I love to approach weddings here:
- Boat arrival: The reflection of the couple on the water, the anticipation, the applause — it’s storytelling gold.
- Ceremony under the Loggia: I play with symmetry, light, and those cinematic Lake Como backdrops.
- Golden hour portraits: The glow across the lake and the villa façade is unlike anywhere else in Italy.
- Candid storytelling: Guests laughing in the garden, champagne flowing, music under the stars — this is where my documentary style comes alive.
If you value emotion, atmosphere, and authenticity over posed perfection, this villa and my approach are a perfect match.
Guest experience: making it unforgettable
Villa del Balbianello doesn’t have accommodations onsite, but that’s part of its charm.
Guests stay in nearby towns such as Lenno, Tremezzo, or Bellagio, all accessible by boat or car.
Ideas for your wedding weekend:
- Welcome dinner by the lake the night before.
- Boat tour for guests the morning after the wedding.
- Brunch in Bellagio to close the weekend in style.
Creating a multi-day experience turns your wedding into a mini Italian vacation — and that’s what destination weddings are all about.
Visual moments you can’t miss
- Stepping off the boat in your gown, with the villa rising behind you.
- Exchanging vows under the Loggia arches, framed by lake and mountains.
- Toasting at sunset with golden reflections on the water.
- Dancing on the terrace as the lake lights up under the stars.
Why couples choose Villa del Balbianello
Because it’s iconic. Because it’s cinematic. Because it’s Italy at its most romantic.
Every couple I’ve worked with here tells me the same thing:
“We couldn’t imagine a more magical place to say ‘I do.’”
And honestly — I couldn’t agree more.
Ready to start planning your Villa del Balbianello wedding?
If you’re dreaming of saying your vows surrounded by Lake Como’s timeless beauty, I’d love to help you make it happen.
With my team, including a wedding content creator and a videomaker, we capture not just the day, but the story, the atmosphere, the details that make your wedding truly yours.
Get in touch and let’s start planning the imagery that will tell your story at one of the most breathtaking venues in Italy.
