Most Luxurious Wedding Venue on Lake Como – The Villa Balbiano

/in /by

It’s never easy to select the ideal location for your Italian wedding, especially with the wide range of options this great nation offers. Castles, Italian wedding villas, renowned 5-star hotels, and everything in between are among the many incredible venues to choose from. 

We know that narrowing it down to just one is a monumental task, and as a Como wedding planner, we want to make it a bit easier. So, we put together this venue spotlight to introduce you to one of our favorite Lake Como wedding venues. 

Italy is a country rich in history, with a wide variety of natural landscapes, such as the sea, mountains, lakes, and hills, as well as many villages and cities with a long history of artistic production. In addition to this, Italy is renowned for its wonderful weather, mouthwatering cuisine, and top-notch wine. 

Italy has long been associated with having some of the most breathtaking scenery and wedding venues; today, we’ll introduce you to Villa Balbiano. 

Outdoor wedding ceremony at Villa Balbiano, featuring chairs arranged with white flowers in a picturesque setting.

Best Locations For Weddings in Lake Como

Villa Balbiano, located on the picturesque western shore of Lake Como, is the gem everyone is looking for in the best Italian wedding venue. A truly remarkable and majestic wedding setting for your special day. The villa has an exceptional heritage beginning with the famous Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, who created it and lived there at the end of the 16th century, 100 year later, Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini used this hidden gem to host daily festivals, banquets, and dances, etc. 

Today, Villa Balbiano is the most recognizable private residence in Lake Como and further. Located by the lake with 2HA property, with a widespread luxurious garden that was designed by the British Society of Garden Designers. 

The Villa itself possesses an outdoor swimming pool and a private boathouse with a pier. The interior is designed with first-class historical furniture and spectacular 17th-century frescoes created by the Recchi brothers and Agostino Silva that are still spotless on the walls of the Lake Como wedding Venue. 

An Italian Opulence

Weddings in Lake Como, the 3rd largest Italian lake recognizable worldwide for its breathtaking landscapes and picturesque locations, will be perfect for your dream wedding that emits luxury, magic, and class. 

When asked for Lake Como’s best locations for weddings, one of our first choices is always Villa Balbiano. The extraordinary beauty not only of the Villa itself but the whole surroundings, the nature, lake view, and perfect Italian garden. 

A serene garden at Villa Balbiano, highlighted by a fountain and an exquisite architectural house.

Villa Balbiano – An Architectural Masterpiece from the 16th Century

Whenever you hear the word masterpiece connected with the 16th Century, the first thing that comes to mind is the Renaissance and its perfect art creations. Well, fortunately, this Villa has it all. Heavenly statues and fountains squirreled away in the perfectly shaped garden and bring life to the ambiance. 

Wedding Chambers and Accommodation for your Guests

The Villa Balbiano offers exclusive accommodation; the newlyweds can enjoy the Master Suite, which has a king-size bed, sitting area, living room with gorgeous furniture, a walk-in dressing room, a bathroom with bathtub, and a shower, a private terrace with lake views for morning coffee with your loved one.  

The Villa has a total of 14 bedrooms which can accommodate up to 28 guests. Each of these rooms offers an unforgettable, out-of-this-world experience. The chic furniture, the 16th-century frescoes, sculptures and statues, and the lake and mountain views make your stay a complete adventure.

In addition, as an extra service, you can get butler and chef service, helicopter transfers, wines from the cellar, beauty and spa treatments, and so on. What an incredible way to treat your guests to an unforgettable Italian wedding experience.

A boat is anchored near Villa Balbiano, a grand house by the water, creating a romantic backdrop for a wedding.

A Fairytale Wedding

Imagine this, you, your lovely partner, caring family, and dearest friends, all together, at a wedding in Lake Como, on YOUR big day.  Let’s start from the entrance. You will get an elite, one-in-a-lifetime arrival at the villa by boat. A pretty incredible way to impress your guests. As you step off onto the peninsula, you will feel the breeze that leads you to the terraces that hold a miraculous viewpoint over the lake. 

You have a couple of options for your reception. It can be the upper Loggia Segre that can accommodate up to 60 seated guests. Its own private terrace can later be used for dancing, cocktails, or maybe even an after-party.  Your second option can be the lower garden terrace. Its capacity is a maximum of 150 people seated. 

An interesting and unique thing about Villa Balbiano is that it is one of the very few Lake Como Villas and Venues that are “neighbours free,” and that can mean only one thing: partying all night with no guilt.

Unbelievable Wedding Photo Backdrop Locations

In addition to the lake view, boat, and garden photographs, we will give you some insider tips for a perfect photo. Probably the most famous and celebrated spot of the villa will be the three-arched loggias. A truly special place, the spot that gazes north to Bellagio and the mountains in the distance. Across from the mountains is the single island of Como. This spot can be used for a special ceremony like reading your vows or even an intimate dinner. 

Other ideas for photographs can be with the luxury furniture that is all over the Villa. Ancient and historic furnishings, stunning frescoes, and amazing architecture throughout the villa create beautiful photo backdrops. A professional photographer will instruct you on making the perfect pose that will bring out the best version of you.

And, of course, you can never get too many wedding photos with the awe-inspiring and picturesque view of Lake Como. It will emit a vibe from the Renaissance period itself. And lastly, pianos always create a beautiful wedding portrait. The whole ambiance at the villa just complements love and is an unbelievable addition to your love story.

Aerial view of a wedding ceremony in a garden at Villa Balbiano, showcasing elegant decorations and guests in attendance.

3 Main Reasons Why Villa Balbiano Is Perfect For Your Wedding Day

Each couple has unique reasons for choosing a specific location as their wedding venue. And when speaking of the Villa Balbiano, there are a million reasons to think of, but here are just a few reasons why we think it’s a wonderful location to say “I Do” in Italy. 

It is an Architectural Masterpiece

A true masterpiece. Being able to see all of the art that is on the property, art that just speaks for itself, representing the wealthy history and its hard but beautiful tale. Every bit and corner of the whole property just screams luxury, royalty, chic, class, style, elite, and art! The terrace, the two loggias, the peninsula, the Villa itself, the views, the decorations, the nature, the garden…we can just keep on going. The Villa needs to be experienced and not described.

Royalty and Luxury Are Present all the time.

By choosing Villa Balbiano, you will definitely feel like royalty. Starting with the boat arrival, the villa’s service, and perfect and different reception spots, the Villa Balbiano is definitely one of the best Como wedding locations. 

It’s hard to beat the breathtaking views, vibrant green nature, deep blue sky and water, chic furniture, luxurious halls, and interior decor with ancient frescoes that inspire us to dream and wonder, providing truly the best Italian wedding experience.

A wedding reception in a glass house at Villa Balbiano, featuring stunning views of the lake, creating a unique experience.

Uniqueness and a Lifetime Experience

If you’re searching for an Italian wedding venue that will create a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience, the Villa Balbiano is it! 

Wedding guests enjoy a unique chance to fully experience Lake Como’s architecture, art, light, and drama at the majestic Villa Balbiano. The entire experience is characterized by flamboyant styling and opulent detail, and two hectares of well-maintained grounds provide innumerable lovely vantage points from which to take in the striking vistas. 

The property may provide a window into the life of the villa’s controversial former owner, Cardinal Durini, who lived there and extended it in the late 18th century. His passion for the arts as a papal nuncio is still clearly visible in the property’s Italianate gardens with their dramatic fountains and thoughtful sculptures, beautiful ceiling frescoes, and a world-class library, which all interestingly contrast with the simple lines of the villa’s Renaissance façade.

It’s important to remember that your wedding story is about the love that you share for each other and joining together as one. And while the Villa Balbiano is a majestic and unforgettable venue, the true experience for everyone in attendance is based on your love. 

Every venue is perfect as long as you and your partner are in it. The couples that marry at Villa Balbiano make it even more beautiful and magical than it already is, the architectural and natural blessings are just supplementary. Are you ready to become part of this palatial villa’s evolving history? We can help you plan it! Give us a call today.

Villa Astor: Luxury Wedding in Amalfi Coast

/in /by

Rising from the sea cliff overlooking the Bay of Naples, this majestic property is grand in design and experience. Villa Astor has earned the title of “Paradise” with possibly one of the best vistas in the world and a grandeur rarely seen inside and out. It is one of the most romantic and awe-inspiring settings for a luxury Italian wedding. 

This luxury villa is a fantasy wedding location, a one-of-a-kind and beautiful setting ideal for elopements, weddings in villa ceremonies, and receptions that have been named one of the trendiest Italian wedding locations by Brides Magazine. The gorgeous, lush garden is the perfect place for romance and celebration, and it offers expansive views of the sea and Mount Vesuvius. Either outside under the stars or within one of the many salons are options for dining.

According to numerous premium lifestyle and travel periodicals, including Town & Country, Quintessence, Forbes, Bloomberg, and the Telegraph, Villa Astor is the gold standard for opulent lodging on the Amalfi Coast. It’s a breathtaking villa steeped in history with a view that will take your breath away. In addition, it is one of our favorite Italian wedding venues.

A luxury villa on a cliff, overlooking the ocean, showcasing Villa Astor's stunning wedding venue on the Amalfi Coast.

A Unique Experience 

If you dream of being whisked away to a destination filled with romance, culture, and history for your wedding, Italy and the Villa Astor are the perfect setting. Dripping in old-world luxury at the most renowned residence in Sorrento, you can expect to be pampered.

It is a majestic structure that rises above the Gulf of Naples. Nestled on two hectares (4+ acres) of land, the distinctive garden, one of Europe’s 20 most beautiful gardens, faces Naples and Mount Vesuvius with a dramatic plunge to the sea.

The Villa has a primary structure with three floors. The lowest level, accessible through an exterior stairway, consists of a terrace and a salon in a glass-covered portico, making it the perfect summertime location for meals, gatherings, and barbecues. 

Six luxurious bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom designed and built by Jacques Garcia, are located on the first and second floors.

The property has 270-degree sea views and is encircled by a big, private garden with more than 1000 different species of plants, flowers, and trees, some of which reach heights of 60 feet. The decor, paintings, and other items on the property all reflect elegance and classicism with a solid connection to regional southern Italian traditions.

Walking around the house’s garden, open areas, and interior rooms is a profoundly emotional experience. Marble columns and artifacts complete its architecture, yet it is hard to describe precisely what Villa Astor stands for.

Weddings At Villa Astor In Sorrento Italy

Villa Astor is truly a luxury destination wedding venue located in Sorrento. The villa has hosted some of the most famous weddings in history, since the early 20th century. And the weddings that take place here are some of the most unbelievable. 

The views are designed to be seen from every room in the house, but you can also enjoy them outside on your private balcony or patio.

Three rooms are available for ceremonies: an indoor chapel with high ceilings decorated with antique chandeliers; a small outdoor chapel with walls made of stone; and an outdoor garden where you can say your vows beneath a pergola covered with flowers.

Villa Astor is conveniently located near many other attractions in Sorrento, including museums and historical sites such as Pompei, Herculaneum, and Vesuvius Volcano Park. The venue offers a range of packages to suit all budgets and styles.

Aerial view of Villa Astor, a large white house by the water, showcasing its luxury and scenic location on the Amalfi Coast.

The History

Villa Astor has a lengthy history dating back to the first century A.D., when Agrippa Postumus, the grandson of Emperor Augustus, first made it his home. It has long been a house and a destination for the affluent and illustrious.

It is a remarkable example of combining interior and outdoor splendor. William Waldorf Astor purchased this house in 1905 after falling in love with it and filling it with one of the most extensive collections of classical and Renaissance artifacts of the 20th century. It became one of the most sought-after vacation spots in the South of Italy after a wealthy family purchased the Villa in the 1970s and hosted several famous guests, including Gregory Peck, Sofia Loren, Princess Margaret, Franco Zeffirelli, and Rudolf Nureyev.

The villa has been restored over the years, keeping its original design but updating the facilities to meet modern needs. As a result, it remains one of the most popular wedding venues in Sorrento.

It is an ideal location for a luxury wedding on Amalfi Coast and romantic honeymoons. It’s also close enough to Naples for guests who may want to include some sightseeing into their trip (though there are plenty of things to do at Villa Astor itself!).

The location offers accommodations with stunning views overlooking the sea or mountain landscape—depending on which suite you book! Guests can enjoy meals in the main dining room or at one of several gourmet restaurants nearby (which can be booked through Villa.

A luxurious bathroom featuring marble floors and a sleek black tub, set in Villa Astor on the Amalfi Coast.

A Luxurious Destination For Weddings & Events

The Astor Villa exudes a classic aura. A museum-quality collection of Greek and Roman antiquities that previously belonged to Lord Astor himself is displayed throughout the magnificent furnishings. In addition, antique relics, such as columns, statues, fountains, urns, pottery shards, and pieces of sarcophagi, are scattered throughout the verdant gardens.

Many of these items were discovered during Pompeii’s original excavation, which is just incredible. Imagine the experience you and your wedding guests will have surrounded by such unbelievable history.

Weddings at Villa Astor are a luxurious experience, with many rooms decorated by famous artists like Gustav Klimt and Salvador Dalí. The grounds also feature an outdoor chapel, where many couples say their vows under the Tuscan sun.

It’s a stunning luxury villa that offers a truly unique and memorable experience to celebrate your love with your closest family and friends.

A symbolic wedding in Amalfi Coast ceremony and reception for groups of 100–200 guests can be held in the exotic garden and breathtaking terraces of Villa Astor. For up to 120 guests, symbolic ceremonies may be held on a large terrace with a view of the sea and Mount Vesuvius. Another choice is a garden near the pool with exotic plants and palm trees but no ocean views.

There are citrus and olive groves, fountains, ornamental ponds, an internal pool in a natural grotto, palms, and ferns, as well as hidden paths and alleys that wind through more than 1,000 plant species, including medicinal plants. Within the walls of this priceless garden, you will discover a microclimate. The Villa is complemented by a jaw-dropping marble swimming pool on the grounds.

These magnificent settings create a beautiful backdrop for your wedding near the sea photos. 

Things To Do

Sorrento is located on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, which offers many other attractions, including museums, restaurants, shops & galleries – all of which are within walking distance from Villa Astor! Its location means that guests can easily enjoy their stay here – whether they want to explore the local area or take advantage of nearby offerings (such as hiking trails through nearby mountains).

If you’re looking for extra activities during your stay here, there are plenty of things to do nearby! You can visit nearby Amalfi Village, where you’ll find boutiques and restaurants—or go snorkeling at Capri Island!

You could visit Ravello, which has several historic sites, including an ancient Roman villa overlooking the sea, or spend some time hiking through the nearby countryside surrounded by olive trees and vineyards that produce some of Italy’s best wines (and cheeses!). But yeah, make sure to sample the wine!

You can also enjoy activities such as hiking on Mount Asaro or exploring Piazza Duomo, where you’ll find vibrant markets throughout the day.

The Villa Astor is a beautiful destination wedding venue in Sorrento, Italy, offering a range of options for your ceremony and reception, including the stunning courtyard, the ethereal gardens, and the secluded terraces.

The serene surroundings of Villa Astor allow guests to relax while enjoying world-class service from an expert staff dedicated to making your stay an unforgettable experience. So if you’re ready to say “I DO” in a romantic, luxurious palace in Italy, we’re ready to help you plan it. 

Take a look at our wedding articles!

Do you prefer the countryside? Take a look at Tuscany!

Call us and let’s plan your dream wedding