Villa del Balbianello
A breathtaking 12th-century villa on Lake Como, famous for its stunning gardens and as a filming location for Star Wars and James Bond.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light
Villa del Balbianello
Best Time
Golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 12th-century villa on Lake Como, famous for its stunning gardens and as a filming location for Star Wars and James Bond.
"Pictures don’t even do it justice! Absolutely magical place with incredible views."
Book tickets online
Secure your spot by booking tickets 5-7 days in advance, as they sell out quickly! :admission_tickets:
Choose your arrival
Opt for the boat for direct access or enjoy a scenic walk to the villa. :ferry: :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Loggia
Main viewpoint
The stunning loggia offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como, a must-see for any visitor.
Star Wars & James Bond Filming Locations
Gardens and exterior
Explore the exact spots where iconic scenes from Star Wars and James Bond were filmed.
Enchanting Gardens
Terraced gardens
Wander through meticulously maintained terraced gardens with vibrant flora and stunning lake vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Getting There: Boat or Walk?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book tickets online
Secure your spot by booking tickets 5-7 days in advance, as they sell out quickly! :admission_tickets:
Choose your arrival
Opt for the boat for direct access or enjoy a scenic walk to the villa. :ferry: :athletic_shoe:
Star Wars scene spot
The famous Star Wars scenes are in the gardens, not inside the villa. :movie_camera:
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on paths and stairs, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book tickets online
Secure your spot by booking tickets 5-7 days in advance, as they sell out quickly! :admission_tickets:
Choose your arrival
Opt for the boat for direct access or enjoy a scenic walk to the villa. :ferry: :athletic_shoe:
Star Wars scene spot
The famous Star Wars scenes are in the gardens, not inside the villa. :movie_camera:
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on paths and stairs, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the magic
Bring your camera! The views and architecture are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Villa del Balbianello as an absolutely magical and stunning place, often calling it a highlight of Lake Como. The beautiful gardens, incredible views, and rich history are frequently mentioned positives. Some find the journey to the villa a bit challenging, and tickets can sell out quickly, requiring advance booking.
"One of the best places I have ever visited in my life! A little bit difficult to get there but in my opinion completely worth the travel, beautiful grounds, beautiful views and such a gorgeous place that you can’t help but feel enchanted by it all. Pictures don’t even do it justice!
Also very awesome to see places where certain scenes in some great films had been shot.
A must do if you’re visiting Lake Como, and would really recommend to do even if you’re in Milan! Me and my partner took a day trip just to explore Lake Como and this beautiful Villa."
Shauna Ancell
"This place is stunning. Amazing garden and the view is so beautiful. If you have the chance to visit this beautiful place then please do it. You need to buy the tickets for the entry online. Better more than 5-7 days before your visit. They're often sold out."
Sunny DelRey
"Summed up:
- A must visit if you’re staying in the area.
- Beautiful villa with a rich and interesting history.
- Great views.
- You can either rent a boat that goes directly to the villa from the lake entrance or walk one of 2 paths. There’s a 1km path and
a 2.5km path.
Extended version:
Villa del Balbianello is a must watch if you’re staying in the area as it’s undoubtedly the most history rich of them all.
There’s both the story of Guido Monzino (a great explorer) and of course its place inside the second Star Wars movie.
The Villa offers a great view of the lake, surrounding mountains and the villages in the area whilst also a nice walk whilst observing these and exploring the place.
To get to the Villa you can either rent a boat that gets you directly into the Villa’s docks, or you can walk one the 2 paths available. The short path is 1km and takes 10 minutes to walk even tho the sign says 20 minutes and it’s a proper path so you can go in a wheelchair or with other means. The long and ‘hike’ path is 2.5km and takes around 25 minutes to walk through even tho the signs says 45 minutes."
Lucas Mørch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Milan Centrale, take a train to Como Lago (approx. €5). From Como, catch a ferry to Lenno. Alternatively, you can take a train to Varenna-Esino and then a ferry.
You can take a ferry from Como to Lenno. From Lenno, you can either walk to the villa (1km or 2.5km paths) or take a taxi boat.
Parking is available in Lenno, but it can be limited. Many visitors opt for public transport or boat services to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, you can rent a private boat or take a water taxi that docks directly at the villa's entrance, offering a convenient and scenic arrival.
There are two paths: a 1km path (approx. 10-20 mins) and a 2.5km path (approx. 25-45 mins). The shorter path is more accessible, even for wheelchairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the gardens typically costs around €14, while access to the villa interior is an additional fee, around €25. Student discounts are often available.
Yes, it is highly recommended to buy tickets online 5-7 days in advance, as they frequently sell out, especially during peak season.
Opening hours vary seasonally, but generally, the villa is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is typically closed on Mondays and Wednesdays. Always check the official website for current hours.
Yes, student and senior discounts are often available for entry tickets. Check the official FAI website for details.
Yes, you can purchase tickets specifically for garden access, which is a more affordable option and still offers stunning views and photo opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
The loggia offers iconic lake views, the terraced gardens provide beautiful framing, and the exterior architecture is stunning. Don't miss the spots used in Star Wars and James Bond films.
Photography inside the villa may be restricted or limited to certain areas. The gardens and exterior offer ample opportunities for stunning photos.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful soft light for photography. However, any time of day offers picturesque views.
Drone usage is typically restricted in protected historical sites like Villa del Balbianello to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. Check with the FAI for specific regulations.
Yes, you can recreate iconic scenes from Star Wars and James Bond in the gardens and around the villa's exterior. +1
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Explore the beautiful terraced gardens, admire the historic architecture, and discover the filming locations from famous movies like Star Wars and James Bond. +1
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the gardens and villa, including travel time to and from the entrance.
The 1km path to the villa is relatively accessible. However, the terraced gardens have many stairs and uneven surfaces, which may pose challenges for those with significant mobility issues.
Originally a Franciscan monastery, it was transformed into a lavish villa by Guido Monzino, a renowned explorer, in the 20th century. It's now managed by the FAI.
Yes, Villa del Balbianello is a popular venue for weddings and special events, offering a romantic and picturesque setting. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options on-site might be limited. The visual spectacle of the villa and its surroundings can captivate younger imaginations, making it a memorable part of a Lake Como trip.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand through the gardens, find a quiet bench with a view, or arrive by a private boat for an extra touch of romance. The villa's cinematic history also adds a layer of enchantment to a romantic visit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for the late afternoon golden hour for the most dramatic lighting. Remember to check for any photography restrictions inside the villa, but the exterior and gardens are incredibly photogenic.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Reaching Villa del Balbianello: Your Options
Alternatively, you can embark on a walk to the villa. There are two main paths: a shorter 1km route that takes about 10-20 minutes, and a longer 2.5km route that offers more of a hike and takes around 25-45 minutes. The shorter path is generally more accessible and well-maintained, even suitable for wheelchairs. Both paths provide beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscape as you approach the villa.
For those traveling from further afield, like Milan, the journey typically involves a train to Como Lago, followed by a ferry to Lenno. This multi-modal approach allows you to experience different aspects of Lake Como's charm.
A Glimpse Inside: The Villa and Its Gardens
The terraced gardens are a true masterpiece, designed to complement the villa's architecture and the stunning natural surroundings. Each level offers a different perspective of Lake Como, with manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and ancient trees. It's here that you'll find the iconic loggia, a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the breathtaking views.
Many visitors find that the gardens alone are worth the admission fee, offering ample beauty and photographic opportunities. The famous Star Wars filming locations are situated within these gardens, adding an extra layer of magic for fans.
Villa del Balbianello: A Cinematic Star
+5Beyond the galaxy far, far away, the villa also featured in the James Bond film Casino Royale, where it was the location for Mr. White's secluded villa. This dual cinematic legacy adds to its allure, drawing visitors who are fans of both franchises.
Exploring the villa and its grounds allows you to step into these cinematic worlds, making your visit a truly immersive experience. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and Hollywood fame makes Villa del Balbianello a unique and unforgettable destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit