ABOUT AUTHOR:
Founder. Photographer. Equestrian. Animal lover.
A tenacious visionary with big ideas, KT Merry is a passionate artist and conservationist who truly loves her work. She’s always creating, forever a student, and brimming with wanderlust.
Drawing on her decade of experience in fashion and editorial photography, KT’s known for natural, ethereal, painterly portraits and captured fleeting moments that seem to freeze both time and emotion. She runs in every city she visits, and has never met a dog she didn’t like.
Over the past few years, Lake Como has really exploded in popularity (especially thanks in part to George Clooney—who owns a summer home there). But the area isn’t just for celebrities and their holiday houses. Lake Como has quickly become one of the top global destinations for weddings. Which works out wonderfully for me, since Lake Como is one of my favorite locations to shoot—by far. If you’re in the midst of planning a Lake Como wedding, you’ll want to keep reading…
Photo: KT Merry
Nestled in the foothills of the Alps in northern Italy, Lake Como serves as a breathtaking backdrop for just about anything you can imagine—it’s just that gorgeous. But in this post, I’m going to be specifically talking about Lake Como weddings at length. Because as a global destination wedding photographer, I constantly get asked where I recommend having a wedding. So, here it goes.
If you’re thinking about having a wedding in Italy—or anywhere in Europe, for that matter—Lake Como really is one of my top recommendations.
In this post, I’ll be going over everything Lake Como wedding related—including Lake Como hotels, Lake Como restaurants, Lake Como tours, Lake Como venues, and special suggestions for what to do in Lake Como. So think of this blog post as your definitive guide to planning a Lake Como wedding. Andiamo!
Photo: KT Merry
The Best Lake Como Wedding Venues
When it comes to choosing a venue for your Lake Como wedding, you really are spoiled for choice. There are most definitely more than a couple handfuls of stunning venues to choose from, but here are my four favorite Lake Como wedding venue options.
Villa Balbiano
Photo: KT Merry
On the western shores of Lake Como—in Ossuccio, more specifically—sits the iconic Villa Balbiano, one of the most jaw-dropping Italian palazzos of all time. It was built by Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio in the late 16th century and is the largest private residence on Lake Como.
Villa Balbiano boasts waterfront views, famous gardens, an opulent outdoor swimming pool, a private pier, a beautiful boathouse, as well as countless historical pieces of art and furniture. As far as I’m concerned, the entire Villa Balbiano is a historical piece of art.
From a photographer’s perspective, it doesn’t get much better. Villa Balbiano is a timeless classic—and arguably one of the venues that first help set Lake Como on the map for destination weddings. Definitely can’t mention Lake Como wedding venues without mentioning Villa Balbiano! (For private rental, visit The Heritage Collection.)
Villa Sola Cabiati
Also on the western part of Lake Como—in Tremezzo—is the neoclassical Villa Sola Cabiati, one of the most extravagant historic residences in Italy’s Lombardy region. It was built in the early 16th century as a commission for the Duchess of Carretto and was later purchased by the Italian noble Serbelloni family in the 18th century. Now, the Villa is managed by (and only available through booking with) nearby Hotel Tremezzo.
The Villa’s interiors are something of a daydream—beautiful Italian pastels, elaborate halls filled with endless pieces of historical art, decor, and furniture, detailed gardens overlooking the water, and a gorgeous outdoor pool. Villa Sola Cabiati is an absolutely stunning Lake Como wedding venue! (For bookings, visit The Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s website.)
Photo: KT Merry
Villa Erba
Photo: KT Merry
Coming at you once again from west Lake Como—in Cernobbio—I have to recommend Villa Erba, a truly awe-inspiring 19th century masterpiece. The Villa was originally built for the Italian noble Erba family and was later frequented by the famous Italian film director Luchino Visconti. Speaking of film—this Villa truly feels like an Italian movie set. In fact, the last time I shot a wedding here, I caught glimpses of the filming of Murder Mystery!
Being on this property immediately transports you to another world—and being inside it is almost indescribable. Ancient frescoes, intricate moldings, lovely terraces, old music playing at almost all times…
Villa Erba is one of the best Lake Como wedding venues imaginable. The back terrace is an incredible ceremony location and the photo angles are frankly endless. (For more information, visit the official website for Villa Erba.)
Villa Pizzo
Photo: KT Merry
Are you surprised that my fourth—and final—Lake Como wedding venue recommendation is also on the west side of the lake?! What can I say? The west is the best. This list simply wouldn’t be complete without Villa Pizzo—one of the oldest residences on Lake Como.
Villa Pizzo is located in Cernobbio, and it’s quite possibly the most romantic-looking building in the entire Lake Como region. Dating back to the 15th century, Villa Pizzo’s facade is a distressed, pastel, rose-colored hue—unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. The beautiful exterior is made even more gorgeous by the envelopment of its vibrant gardens. Villa Pizzo is hands down one of my favorite Lake Como wedding venues—ever! (For reservations, visit the official website of Villa Pizzo.)
The Best Lake Como Hotels
Much like with wedding venues, there are endless viable Lake Como hotel options! But—to make your Lake Como wedding planning experience a bit less overwhelming—I’ve compiled a list of my top 3 recommendations for which Lake Como hotels to book for your Lake Como wedding. Whichever one you choose, trust and believe—you will notbe disappointed.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Photo: KT Merry
Located in Tremezzina, Hotel Tremezzo is iconic. You probably already know all about it. It’s considered one of the best hotels—if not the best hotel—in the entirety of Italy. I’ve admired its chic pool and regal rooms for years. And while I’ve never stayed here myself, I always go out of my way to drop by, snap some photos, and order an Aperol spritz and a bowl of pasta.
It’s unreal—and it’s the perfect place to people-watch the day away. Oh, and the pizza in the garden? Hidden gem. Endowed with its own gallery, spa, lakeside lounges, gastronomic dining, boat excursions, and personal chauffeur options, your wedding guests would pretty much be guaranteed to forever remember their experience at Hotel Tremezzo—one of the absolute best Lake Como hotels.
Also… Remember my mention of Villa Sola Cabiati (one of my favorite Lake Como wedding venues)? Well, Hotel Tremezzo manages Villa Sola Cabiati—and it’s extremely close by. So the venue-hotel combination would make for a very convenient possibility. (For booking information, visit Hotel Tremezzo’s official website.)
Villa D’Este
Located in Cernobbio, Italy, Villa D’Este has been one of the best hotels on Lake Como since the late 19th century (and before that— between the 16th and early 19th century—it was a royal residence).
Less than 4 miles from the breathtaking Basilica di Sant’Abbondio, Villa D’Este has everything you think it does: white glove service, gilded facades, ornate (yet timeless) interiors, 3 premier restaurants and bars, luxurious rooms with balconies and terraces (with the option of full dining rooms and kitchens), outdoor seating and lounging, a pool ON THE LAKE, and glorious gardens.
Photo: KT Merry
The terrain-facing facade is truly one of the most gorgeous feats of architecture/design I’ve ever seen. And the landscaping? Simple, yet incredible. Villa D’Este is truly a marvel—and definitely one of the best Lake Como hotels! (For more details, visit the official Villa D’Este website.)
Il Sereno
Located in Torno, Italy, Il Sereno has been getting a lot of critical acclaim for the past few years. With a more modern design, this newer addition to the shores of Lake Como is as serene as it is lavish.
Equipped with a next-level restaurant (which even offers cooking classes for a once-in-a-lifetime activity), a wonderful lobby bar, an excellent wine cellar (with tasting opportunities), a luxurious spa, 3 different boating experiences, a lakeside pool, and views that leave you speechless, Il Sereno is the one modern hotel that makes my list of top Lake Como hotels. It’s incredible.
There’s just something about the clean, modern architecture of the hotel set against the lush, green, ancient landscape of Italy—bellissima! (For booking information, visit Il Sereno’s official website.)
The Best Lake Como Restaurants
I probably don’t have to tell you that pretty much anywhere you go in Italy is going to have to-die-for food. It’s Italy! But since I’ve been lucky enough to shoot many weddings in the region, I really do have favorites. And if you choose to have your wedding somewhere in the Lake Como region, you have to explore the area’s dining options. Because they’re pretty legendary.
With that being said, here are the 4 best Lake Como restaurants (in my American opinion)! Any one of these would make a lovely rehearsal dinner venue. Mangiamo!
Locanda La Tirlindana
Photo: KT Merry
A little over 37 miles north of Milan is Sala Comacina—a tranquil paradise on Lake Como. After charting your way through this small, lakeside town made up of mostly locals, you’ll stumble upon Locanda La Tirlindana—a charming (and delicious) restaurant set at the edge of the lake.
It’s like stepping into a movie set. And the lemon ravioli—you’ll never forget it. I still have dreams about it. Locanda La Tirlindana is known for its pasta, seafood, grilled meats, and wine! (See the menu here.)
Il Gatto Nero
Near the Switzerland border is Cernobbio—the picturesque small town on Lake Como. While you’re exploring the town, you’ll want to stop in at Il Gatto Nero—an elevated eatery serving regional dishes and wines in a traditional dining room setting with—you guessed it—lakeside views of Como.
The food is unreal. Il Gatto Nero is reportedly George Clooney’s favorite restaurant in all of Lake Como. Need I say more?! (Check out the full menu here.)
Photo: Courtesy of Il Gato Nero Restaurant
Albergo Ristorante Plinio
Slightly north of Milan is Lenno—another quaint town on Lake Como. If you happen to be in this particular region, do yourself a favor and make a point to try Albergo Ristorante Plinio—it’s the coziest, most ambient restaurant ever.
They specialize in Northern Italian, Lombard, Mediterranean, and Euro cuisine. It’s amazing! And of course, the views are pristine. (Albergo Ristorante is so hole-in-the-wall that I can’t even find an official website—that’s how you know it’s authentic as can be.)
Photo: KT Merry
Al Veluu
A little under 4 miles from Bellagio is Tremezzina—yet another gorgeous region on Lake Como. There are literally no ugly places on Lake Como—sorry! While you’re galavanting around Tremezzina, be sure to swing by Al Veluu—my all-time favorite Lake Como restaurant.
The owner usually starts by sharing the specials that he grew in his own garden a stone’s throw away, while pouring some delicious, dry Gavi. Perched high above the lake, the elevation of this restaurant allows you to take in the views of the lake in a unique way. It’s almost moving—just being there.
Photo: KT Merry
And the food? I mean… there just aren’t any words. Suffice it to say that the last time I was at Al Veluu, I started Googling “Lake Como real estate.” It’s that good. My definitive, favorite Lake Como restaurant. (For the full menu, click here.)
Things to Do in Lake Como: Special Suggestions
If you’re looking for fun and unique activities to do in Lake Como with your wedding party, KT’s blog is the perfect place to start! Read the full post to learn more about her favorite activities like shopping, hiking, boating, and more. With her tips and insights, you can create an unforgettable experience that your guests will cherish forever!
