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Villa Erba: A luxury wedding venue on Lake Como, Italy

Introducing Villa Erba – A luxuriously elegant villa in the heart of Lake Como

Situated on the glistening shores of Lake Como lies a stunning oasis of refined luxury at the Villa Erba estate. This breathtakingly elegant villa boasts sweeping views of the tranquil, crystal-clear lake waters and offers the perfect venue for an unforgettable destination wedding in Italy.

Exterior of the front of Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy

In this article, I will cover:

  • Why Villa Erba is unique – Explore the luxurious amenities and breathtaking views of Villa Erba
  • Villa Erba – Links to Hollywood Stars & High Fashion
  • A Villa Erba Wedding – The Perfect Venue for Your Big Day
  • Lake Como and the surrounding area
  • Getting to Villa Erba – Travelling to Lake Como
Exterior rear view of Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy

Why Villa Erba is unique – Explore the luxurious amenities and breathtaking views of Villa Erba

The Villa Erba estate features a stunning 19th century residence overlooking the shores of Lake Como, an exhibition / congress center, and a vast botanical garden, offering the perfect place for hosting business, entertainment occasions, and events of all kinds.

Exterior side view of Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy
View from Villa Erba over Lake Como

What began as a humble monastery was transformed into an opulent estate by Luigi Erba, brother, and heir of the great pharmaceutical industrialist Carlo Erba. Enlisting the talents of two of the most esteemed architects of the time, Angelo Savoldi and Giambattista, Villa Erba was commissioned to represent the prestige and status of the family with grand architecture, palatial interiors, and ornate ceilings.

Italian frescoes on the ceiling of the grand ballroom of Villa Erba

In the years that followed, the estate became a haven for celebrated artists and intellectuals through many noted cultural and social events.

The botanical gardens at Villa Erba

Today, it continues to exude a sense of timeless elegance and sophistication, with its legacy continuing through the family of Duke Giuseppe Visconti di Modrone in Cernobbio, with their son, esteemed director Luchino Visconti, treasuring it as his summer residence.

The statues in the gardens of Villa Erba

Villa Erba – Links to Hollywood Stars & High Fashion

Many A list celebrities have been welcomed through the doors of the luxurious Villa Erba over the years. The historic villa was featured in the blockbuster hit “Ocean’s Twelve,” starring Vincent Cassel, George Clooney, and Brad Pitt; and by American singer Gwen Stefani for her hit song Cool.
It was the host venue for a gala dinner by famed Italian fashion house Bulgari, and the venue for the wedding of noted interior designer Irina Pogonaru to Tudor Georgescu, which was featured in Harper’s Bazaar.

The mezzanine floor with columns of Villa Erba

A Villa Erba Wedding – The Perfect Venue for Your Big Day

Villa Erbaexudes elegance and refinement, making it the perfect choice for couples seeking a luxurious destination wedding venue in Italy. The villa’s ancient frescoes and precious inlaid ceilings are a true masterpiece, beautifully complemented by its Mannerist-inspired rooms.

The impressive, ornate ballroom is the perfect event space for a high-end wedding, and the opulent reception hall, with its grand staircase, makes for a show-stopping entrance for the Bride & Groom.

Bride and groom posing on the steps at the front of Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy
The grand ballroom with chandeliers in Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy
The grand reception room and steps leading up to the mezzanine at Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy
Bride posing on the grand staircase leading up to the mezzanine at Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy

If you are planning on having a big wedding, Villa Erba is perfect for large groups, with the entire ground floor able to accommodate up to 450 seated guests on your wedding day.

The villa’s vast lakeside garden offers breathtaking views of Lake Como and is the ideal location for an outdoor ceremony set under the glimmering Italian sun.

Bride and groom posing on the steps outside of Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy
Bride and groom posing in front of a statue in the grounds of Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy
Groom posing in front of the views of Lake Como Italy in the grounds of Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy

During the wedding reception, as your guests enjoy cocktail hour, a private boat can whisk you and your spouse away for a romantic photoshoot on the lake. After which, you return to the grand ballroom for your first dance as husband & wife!

Photo leading through the doors into the ballroom at Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy
Bride dancing in the grand reception on the Italian tiles at Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy
Groom posing in the ballroom at Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy
Bride posing against the internal doors at Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy

Lake Como and the surrounding area

Lake Como is located in the heart of Italy’s Lombardy region – an area of outstanding natural beauty nestled at the foothills of the Alps. This luxurious resort is a sought-after destination for couples worldwide who travel to Lake Como to exchange vows in a breathtaking setting and offers some of Italy’s most luxurious wedding venues.

Landscape view of sailboats on lake como in italy

The surrounding area offers an impressive array of things to do, from taking in the rich cultural heritage on offer at museums and historical sites, to embarking on thrilling water sports like sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing.

Landscape of lake como in italy

Whether your passions lie in arts and culture or fun and adventure, the majestic Lake and its surrounding amenities are sure to offer an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Sunset view of boats at golden hour on Lake Como in Italy

Getting to Villa Erba – Travelling to Lake Como

For those traveling from overseas, the journey to Villa Erba can be an adventure in itself! The nearest international airport is Milan Airport, which is around a 1.5 hour drive to Lake Como.
From the airport, you can choose to travel via public transportation (bus or train), taxi, private transfer/shuttle, or hire a rental car. It’s worth noting that while renting a car can be convenient, be sure to keep in mind that the roads are narrow and winding in places, so it’s best to opt for a smaller vehicle if possible!

Vintage yellow Fiat 500 in Italy

In Summary

Villa Erba offers the perfect setting for a luxury wedding in Italy’s beautiful Lake Como region. The property is truly a one-of-a-kind destination that boasts unmatched luxury and breathtaking views over Lake Como. This luxurious villa boasts offers the perfect setting for your Lake Como wedding venue, from the lavish grand ballroom to the striking staircase – not to mention its rich history and links to Hollywood stars and the world of high fashion!


If you are looking for VILLA ERBA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER with experience working at this unique venue, please do not hesitate to get in touch. I would love to learn more about your wedding plans!

Bride posing on the stone steps leading up to the front doors at Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy
Bride posing on the stone steps leading up to the front doors at Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy

Click the image below to view a gallery from Villa Erba

Bride & groom posing on the stone steps leading up to the front doors at Villa Erba on Lake Como in Italy

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