Lenno Lake Como
Lenno, Lake Como: Home to the iconic Villa del Balbianello, offering stunning gardens and serene lakeside charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens are in full bloom.
Lenno Lake Como
Best Time
Gardens are in full bloom.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Lenno, Lake Como: Home to the iconic Villa del Balbianello, offering stunning gardens and serene lakeside charm.
"Villa del Balbianello is a must-visit, leaving you speechless with its beauty."
Book Villa Tours Early
Secure your Villa del Balbianello tour tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
Ferry to Villa is Scenic
Take the ferry from Lenno to the villa; it's a beautiful ride and avoids a long walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Villa del Balbianello
Lenno
Iconic terraced gardens and picturesque architecture, a must-see on Lake Como.
Lenno's Lakeside Charm
Lenno waterfront
A less crowded, charming town offering beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere.
The 'Edward Scissorhands' Tree
Lenno
A uniquely shaped, fabulous tree that's a memorable photo opportunity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Villa del Balbianello in Advance
Factor in Ferry and Walking Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Villa Tours Early
Secure your Villa del Balbianello tour tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
Ferry to Villa is Scenic
Take the ferry from Lenno to the villa; it's a beautiful ride and avoids a long walk.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, especially to and from the villa.
Explore Beyond the Villa
Lenno itself is a charming, less crowded gem worth exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Villa Tours Early
Secure your Villa del Balbianello tour tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
Ferry to Villa is Scenic
Take the ferry from Lenno to the villa; it's a beautiful ride and avoids a long walk.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, especially to and from the villa.
Explore Beyond the Villa
Lenno itself is a charming, less crowded gem worth exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Villa del Balbianello for its breathtaking beauty, stunning gardens, and iconic status, often calling it a highlight of Lake Como. The charm of Lenno as a less crowded, picturesque town is also frequently mentioned. Some find the walk to the villa lengthy, and ferry schedules can sometimes be a point of minor frustration.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lenno is accessible by ferry from other Lake Como towns like Varenna or Bellagio. You can also reach it by car, though parking can be challenging. If arriving by train, you'll likely disembark at Como San Giovanni or Varenna-Esino and then take a ferry.
Yes, there is a ferry service from Lenno's waterfront that takes you directly to the villa's dock. This is a popular and scenic option.
The walk from Lenno to Villa del Balbianello is approximately 30 minutes along a scenic path. It's a pleasant stroll, but wear comfortable shoes.
Yes, you can drive to Lenno, but parking can be limited, especially during peak tourist season. Consider using public transport or ferries if possible.
From Varenna, you'll need to take a ferry across Lake Como to Lenno. The ferry journey offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding villas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your Villa del Balbianello tour tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, as tours can sell out.
Opening hours vary by season. It's best to check the official Villa del Balbianello website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and tour schedules.
Ticket prices for Villa del Balbianello tours vary. Check the official website for current admission fees and any special package deals.
Typically, access to the gardens is included with a guided tour. It's advisable to book a tour to fully experience the villa and its grounds.
Discounts may be available for certain groups like children, seniors, or students. Always check the official ticketing page for any applicable offers.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront promenade in Lenno offers lovely views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Don't miss the unique 'Edward Scissorhands' tree for a quirky shot.
Photography rules can vary. Generally, photography is allowed in the gardens, but it might be restricted inside certain areas of the villa. Always follow the guidelines provided by the staff.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for photography in Lenno and around Lake Como.
Drone usage is often restricted in protected areas and near historical sites like Villa del Balbianello. Check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views and villa architecture. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant shots of other villas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The extensive gardens of Villa del Balbianello provide space for kids to explore, and the unique 'Edward Scissorhands' tree is a fun point of interest. However, be mindful that the 30-minute walk to the villa from Lenno might be challenging for very young children, so consider the ferry option. Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as options can be limited within the villa grounds. Ensure everyone wears comfortable walking shoes. Consider booking an earlier tour to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Aim to book your Villa del Balbianello tour for mid-morning to allow time for travel and a brief exploration of Lenno's waterfront before your scheduled entry. Day-trip essentials: Prioritize booking your villa tour tickets in advance. Wear comfortable shoes for the walk to the villa or be prepared for the ferry. Allow at least 3-4 hours to comfortably visit the villa and experience a bit of Lenno.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Villa del Balbianello
Visitors can explore the villa's opulent rooms, learn about its rich history, and wander through the meticulously maintained gardens offering panoramic views of the lake. The journey to the villa itself, whether by a short ferry ride or a scenic walk from Lenno, adds to the overall experience. Key attractions within the villa complex include the Loggia Durini, offering spectacular vistas, and the various garden levels adorned with sculptures and exotic plants. The villa's history is as fascinating as its beauty, having been owned by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini and later by the explorer Guido Monzino, who meticulously preserved it.
It's essential to book tours in advance, as they are the primary way to access the villa and its interiors, ensuring you don't miss out on this iconic Lake Como landmark. Many visitors rave about the serene atmosphere and the unforgettable views from the villa's vantage points.
The combination of natural beauty and historical grandeur makes Villa del Balbianello a truly magical place. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for the walk and the exploration of the grounds. Lenno: A Tranquil Lakeside Escape
Its picturesque waterfront promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The town retains a quiet charm, with local cafes and small shops providing a glimpse into daily life. One of the unique sights in Lenno is a distinctively shaped tree, famously dubbed the 'Edward Scissorhands' tree, which makes for a fun photo opportunity.
Lenno serves as an excellent base for exploring the central lake area, with convenient ferry connections to other popular destinations. Travelers often appreciate Lenno for its peaceful ambiance and stunning natural beauty without the overwhelming crowds.
It’s a place to unwind, enjoy the lake’s tranquility, and soak in the Italian lakeside lifestyle. 
Social
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