Things to Do at Villa del Balbianello

Complete Guide to Villa del Balbianello in Lake Como

About Villa del Balbianello

Admission: 8 euros (). Local street performers often set up nearby on weekends. Local tour guides are available near the main entrance.

What to See & Do

The Terraced Gardens

Meticulously maintained gardens with ancient trees, exotic plants, and classical statues that frame spectacular lake views. The famous loggia at the villa's tip offers the most photographed vista on Lake Como.

Villa Interior and Collections

Elegantly furnished rooms displaying Guido Monzino's expedition memorabilia, including artifacts from his Everest climbs and North Pole expeditions, alongside 18th-century furniture and artwork.

The Boat Landing

The villa's water-level entrance where boats dock, offering a dramatic arrival experience and unique perspective of the villa rising above. This is where many of the famous film scenes were shot.

Panoramic Terraces

Multiple viewing points throughout the property, each offering different perspectives of Lake Como's western and northern arms, with the Alps providing a striking backdrop.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Generally open Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends from 10am-6pm (March-November), but hours vary seasonally. Closed Mondays and Wednesdays, and entirely from December-February.

Tickets & Pricing

Around €22 for adults, €11 for students/seniors. Tickets include villa and gardens. Book online in advance, especially during peak season, as daily visitor numbers are limited.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Morning visits tend to be less crowded, and the light is particularly beautiful for photography.

Suggested Duration

Plan for 1.5-2 hours to properly explore both the villa interior and gardens without rushing.

Getting There

You can't drive to Balbianello. The boat ride makes it better. Water taxis from Lenno's pier run every few minutes, or you can book the scheduled service that connects multiple lake towns. Private water taxis cost more but pick you up anywhere on the lake. Worth the extra cost. There is a 10-minute walk from Lenno if you insist on land access, plus a steeper hiking trail through the woods that takes about 20 minutes. The boat approach wins every time-you get lake views and a proper arrival.

Things to Do Nearby

Villa Carlotta
Another striking lakeside villa in nearby Tremezzo, famous for its botanical gardens and impressive art collection, easily reached by ferry.

Bellagio
The 'Pearl of Lake Como' sits at the lake's center point, offering charming cobblestone streets, elegant villas, and some of the best shopping and dining on the lake.

Menaggio
A lively lakeside town with a beautiful promenade, good restaurants, and regular ferry connections to other lake destinations.

Isola Comacina
Lake Como's only island, featuring ancient ruins and a famous restaurant serving a ritualistic fixed menu that hasn't changed in decades.

Tips & Advice

Book your tickets online well in advance, especially for weekend visits - they often sell out during peak season

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the garden paths can be uneven and there are quite a few steps

Bring a camera with a good zoom lens - the villa offers incredible photo opportunities from multiple angles

Consider timing your visit to coincide with a ferry ride to other lake destinations to make the most of your day on the water