Perched on the tip of the Lavedo Peninsula, with its terraced gardens diving into the blue of Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello is one of the most admired and photographed buildings on Lake Como.
Originally built at the end of the 18th century by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini on the site of a Franciscan monastery, Villa del Balbianello has always been a retreat for culture, reflection, and elegance. Over the years, it passed through the hands of diplomats, writers, and collectors, until it was acquired by explorer Guido Monzino, who left it—along with his extraordinary collections—to the Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano (FAI).
The villa’s interiors reflect Monzino’s adventurous life, with rooms filled with art, rare artifacts, and mementos from expeditions, including the one that led him to the summit of Everest. But even more striking than the rooms are the gardens, perfectly manicured and shaped to frame the landscape in every direction. From here, the view of Bellagio, Tremezzo, and the surrounding mountains is simply breathtaking.
Today, the villa also became an icon in pop culture: it served as a filming location for Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and Casino Royale, among others.
The Villa Balbianello experience with Varenna Holidays
To make the most of your visit, Varenna Holidays offers a Villa Balbianello tour, which includes private boat transfer and entry to the villa and gardens, with an expert guide who will walk you through its history, architecture, and cinematic legacy.
Departing from Varenna by boat, you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise across the Lake before arriving at the villa’s iconic landing dock, a setting that already feels like a movie scene. Once inside, the guide will lead you through the gardens and selected rooms, helping you discover the lesser-known details and curiosities that make this place so unique.
The tour is thoughtfully designed to combine comfort and discovery, avoiding crowds and offering a more relaxed pace. Thanks to our network of local partners, we provide reliable service and expert storytelling, ensuring that every guest enjoys a rich and memorable experience.
If it’s your first time on Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello is a must—and discovering it with Varenna Holidays means doing it in the most elegant and enjoyable way.