Ultimate Elopement Guide to Lake Como

Lake Como, with its breathtaking landscapes and romantic ambiance, is the perfect destination for an elopement. As an elopement photographer, capturing these intimate moments amidst the stunning backdrop of Lake Como is a dream come true. In this elopement guide, I'll provide useful tips for couples planning to elope to Lake Como, along with recommendations for the best locations and restaurants to enhance your special day.

Every elopement photographer you’ve come across likely takes beautiful photos. But you’re looking for more than just stunning images—you want someone with deep expertise. Having captured countless weddings and elopements on Lake Como, I know the area inside and out. Whether it’s finding the best boat rentals, recommending charming lakeside towns, or choosing the most breathtaking villas for your photos, I have the experience to make it seamless. With me, you’re not just hiring a photographer—you’re gaining a passionate local guide who will uncover hidden gems and make your time in Italy truly unforgettable.

From April to May, the weather is nice, and the lake looks beautiful with all the greenery and flowers blossom. There aren't as many tourists during this time, which is nice if you want a quieter experience. No matter the weather, Lake Como's stunning villas and gardens are always there, providing a perfect backdrop for romantic photos.

July and August can be quite hot, so they might not be the best choice for an elopement. If you do decide on these months, it's smart to have your ceremony later in the day when it's cooler, preferably after 6 p.m. 

September, on the other hand, is a great time for weddings, as well as the first two weeks of October. During these times, Lake Como is less crowded, which means you can enjoy its beauty without lots of people around.

Villa del Balbianello is stunning venue perched on the edge of the wooded peninsula of Lavedo, overlooking Lake Como, the villa offers a breathtaking panorama, establishing it as one of the most spectacular estates in the region. Renowned for its spectacular garden, this illustrious villa has graced the silver screen in numerous films and commercials and has welcomed many esteemed movie stars among its guests. Imagine exchanging vows beneath the iconic Loggia Durini, a monumental arched structure that crowns the entire Balbianello complex, or amidst the lush greenery near the famed old Holm Oak.  Accessible only by private boat, the journey to Villa Balbianello promises to be an unforgettable experience for you and your guests, adding an extra touch of magic to your special day.

Villa Monastero, nestled in the charming town of Varenna on the eastern shores of Lake Como, offers an enchanting setting for elopements. With its historic charm, picturesque gardens, and panoramic views of the lake, Villa Monastero provides an intimate and romantic backdrop for exchanging vows.

Hotel Villa Cipressi is a charming venue nestled in the heart of Varenna with a perfect blend of history and modern luxury. The Magnolia Suite, featuring a private garden and breathtaking lake views, provides an intimate and romantic setting for your wedding ceremony. With lush botanical gardens and a serene ambiance, this venue ensures an unforgettable elopement experience.

Grand Hotel Tremezzo is historic hotel, with its Belle Époque charm, panoramic terraces, and stunning lakefront location, provides a romantic backdrop for intimate weddings. The Grand Hotel Tremezzo is one of the most beautiful luxury hotel and the most ancient of Lake Como. It is possible to book a private Sala of the hotel to have a romantic dinner or book a suite with terrace to hold a ceremony overlooking the stunning lake. Thanks to its magnificent halls and the famous beach restaurant, it is one of the most famous venues on Lake Como.

Villa Melzi located in Bellagio, along the serene shores of Lake Como, the Gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril stand as a testament to exquisite beauty and harmonious design. Regarded among Europe's most stunning, these gardens seamlessly blend into the hilly terrain between the lake's two branches. While the Gardens cannot be reserved for private events like weddings or ceremonies, arrangements can be made with the Management for professional photoshoots for personal use. Simply complete the necessary form and obtain prior approval to capture the enchanting allure of Villa Melzi's gardens for your private memories.

Villa Regina Teodolinda is a dream venue with a unique atmosphere. This charming private villa is situated in the small village of Laglio. It is possible to celebrate a symbolic ceremonies in the fabulous garden. The Villa offers accommodations too if you want to live an authentic Italian Experience on Lake Como.

Relais Villa Vittoria is a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Como, Relais Villa Vittoria offers a serene and intimate setting for elopements. The villa's charming lakefront garden and elegant interiors provide a perfect backdrop for a romantic wedding ceremony and celebration.

Hotel Villa Flori

For a more contemporary yet romantic setting, Hotel Villa Flori offers a stunning lakeside location with refined elegance. Its beautifully landscaped gardens and charming terraces provide an enchanting atmosphere for an intimate ceremony.

Set amidst lush botanical gardens, Villa Carlotta boasts neoclassical architecture and stunning lake views, making it an enchanting venue for elopements.  Villa Carlotta is at the top of a beautiful terraced garden filled with different species of flowering plants favored by the mild climate. Inside, the villa welcomes artworks of immense value. On the terrace of the Camellias or the room specially dedicated, you can make your own promise of love.

Villa Balbiano, an iconic gem and the most luxurious venue nestled in the quaint town of Ossuccio along the western shores of Lake Como, offers an unparalleled setting for intimate ceremonies. Boasting picturesque terraced gardens and breathtaking views of the lake, this exceptional historical edifice epitomizes luxury and sophistication.  While the lush gardens provide a romantic backdrop for symbolic ceremonies, access to the interior of the villa is restricted. Nevertheless, Villa Balbiano stands as a perfect venue for those seeking a lavish wedding experience on the shores of Lake Como.

A newly restored luxury hotel, Hotel Passalacqua is an opulent venue for an exclusive elopement. With stunning terraces, lush gardens, and a breathtaking view of the lake, this location is ideal for couples who want to celebrate their love in an intimate yet lavish environment.

Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio is one of the oldest and most elegant hotels in the Lake Como area and is situated in Bellagio. The salons and the large lakeside garden offer the chance to organize an elopement immersed in one of the most beautiful panoramas in the world.

Mandarin Oriental for a more luxury elopement, the Mandarin Oriental is a five star luxury hotel situated not far from the town of Como. It is surrounded by a gorgeous botanic park and is the perfect setting for celebrating a very elegant symbolic ceremony and host a a romantic dinner for the 2 of you.

Villa d’Este is luxurious 5-star hotel offers opulent gardens, refined interiors, and impeccable service, creating an elegant backdrop for intimate wedding ceremonies.

Choosing the right venue for your Lake Como elopement is the first step toward an unforgettable wedding day. Whether you prefer the grandeur of a historic villa, the serenity of a private garden, or the luxury of a five-star hotel, Lake Como offers a venue to match every couple’s vision.

There are no strict rules when it comes to your elopement timeline—everything depends on the season, the availability of your chosen villa and your personal vision for the day. Every couple’s celebration is unique, and flexibility is key to making it truly special. However, I highly recommend relying on my experience as an elopement photographer—I know the most breathtaking photo spots and the perfect times to capture the best lighting.

Here's my suggested timeline for an unforgettable Lake Como elopement:

9:00 am – Enjoy a delightful breakfast with a breathtaking view at your hotel.
11:00 am - 2:00 pm – Relax and savor a luxurious getting-ready session at your hotel.
2:30 pm – Share an intimate first look, capturing the joy of the moment.
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm – Take a scenic boat transfer to your chosen villa for the ceremony.
3:30 pm - 4:00 pm – Exchange vows in a stunning and romantic setting.
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm – Enjoy a dreamy photoshoot at the villa, capturing timeless memories.
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm – Celebrate with a romantic boat ride and a champagne toast.
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm – Capture golden hour magic with a photoshoot at another villa or your hotel.
7:00 pm - 7:30 pm – Boat ride to a charming restaurant.
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm – End the day with an intimate candlelit dinner and cake cutting at a picturesque local restaurant—the perfect conclusion to your Lake Como elopement.

Please keep in mind that this schedule is just an example of how your Lake Como elopement could unfold. With this flexible yet thoughtfully curated timeline, your special day will flow naturally, ensuring every moment is filled with beauty, romance, and the enchanting atmosphere of Lake Como.

Planning your dream wedding or elopement in Lake Como doesn’t have to mean an extravagant luxury budget—unless that’s exactly what you’re after! Whether you envision a lavish celebration, an intimate elopement, or something in between, your wedding is what you make of it. With the right vendors, everything is possible, and I’m here to guide you through it.

Key Vendors to Consider

Venue: Your choice of venue will set the tone for your wedding. From a simple portrait session in a villa Melzi gardens to an exclusive ceremony at Villa del Balbianello or Villa Balbiano, there are options for every budget.

Photography: Capturing your special moments is priceless. Professional elopement photography starts from €2500 for 5 hour package, ensuring timeless memories of your day.

Accommodation: Stay in a charming boutique hotel like Villa Cipressi or indulge in a luxury suite at Grand Hotel Tremezzo or Villa Serbelloni. Lake Como offers stunning stays for every style.

Wedding celebrant: Whether legal or symbolic, a celebrant can personalize your ceremony beautifully creating a meaningful and personal touch to your vows.

Hair & Makeup: A professional hair and makeup artist will ensure you look radiant and confident, enhancing your natural beauty while complementing the stunning Lake Como backdrop. Whether you envision a soft, romantic look or something more glamorous, I can recommend both local and Milan-based artists who specialize in bridal styling. 

Flowers: From a simple bridal bouquet to elaborate floral installations, the right florist can bring your vision to life.

Boat Tour: A must for breathtaking views and romantic moments on the lake. 

Private Chef: If you decide to rent a private villa and indulge yourself with truly special dining experience, a private chef can prepare an exquisite Italian meal for two.

Wedding Planner – Your Stress-Free Solution

I almost forgot to mention one of the most important vendors—a wedding planner! If you want a completely stress-free experience, a professional planner can handle all the logistics, from venue bookings to coordinating vendors, so you can simply enjoy your special day.

That said, if you prefer to plan everything yourself, you’re more than welcome to do so! Many couples love the hands-on approach of personalizing every detail. No matter which path you choose, I’ll be happy to recommend my trusted vendors to make the process smoother for you.

Your love story is one of a kind, and your wedding should be too. Lake Como offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable celebration, whether it's an intimate lakeside ceremony, a romantic boat ride, or a candlelit dinner under the stars. No matter what you envision, I’m here to help you bring it to life and document every heartfelt moment along the way.

Ready to start planning your dream elopement? Let’s make magic together in one of the most romantic places in the world. Reach out today—I can’t wait to hear your story!