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Villa del Balbianello, Tremezzina

4.8

#1 of 401 in Things to do in Lake Como

Architectural Building Tourist Spot Must See

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The queen of Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello rests on the tip of a small wooded peninsula and is celebrated for its elaborate terraced gardens. The villa was built in 1787 on the site of a Franciscan monastery. By the time wealthy American businessman Butler Ames purchased the property in the early 20th century, the villa had fallen into a state of neglect. Ames renovated the estate extensively, making vast improvements to the already impressive gardens. In 1974 the property was sold to Guido Monzino, the leader of the first Italian expedition to Mount Everest, who filled the villa with a rich collection of fine art and artifacts acquired on his expeditions. After paying the entry fee, you can walk freely through the gardens and enjoy the sweeping views of the lake. Guided tours of the interior are available at additional cost. To visit Villa del Balbianello and get the most from your holiday in Tremezzina, create itinerary details personal to you using our Tremezzina day trip planning tool .

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Villa del Balbianello Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

3,097 reviews

Google

4.7

• By Paley

  What a wonderful day, ferry to Tremmeniza, a short walk to the water taxi to take us to the Villa. Definately the way to arrive. Up the winding path past manicured trees with views to the lake beyond ...  more »

• By Denise C

  This has to be one of the most stunnign places I have ever seen. Not only was it beautiful but the story of Guido Monzino and his life was inspirational. Fantastic that he left this legacy to the Ital...  more »

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Google

• By T Young

  A very pretty garden. Didn't go into the villa. Gardens alone were 10 euro. Villa + garden 20 euros but we never felt like we wanted to go inside the villas. Quite a walk from the gate to the actual villa. 20 mins with some uphill. Closes 6pm so make sure you go with at least an hour to spend there.

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• By Sawo Lav

  Impressing Villa and one man’s life story. Guided tour was so involving and informative, I really want to go back. Keep in mind, you have to walk up the hill to the villa. Views and the garden are absolutely stunning!

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