Villa Carlotta
The most famous historical villa is Villa Carlotta, which dates back more than two centuries. Its name derives from the fact that it was given as a wedding gift by Princess Marianne of Prussia to her daughter Carlotta. It now belongs to the Italian state and is notable for its museum and garden, which has a rich botanical patrimony noted especially for its azaleas.
 
Villa del Balbianello
The most beautiful of all Como's villas, this was originally known as Villa Arconati and is located on the extreme tip of a promontory. It was built by Cardinal Durini in the 18th century and was designated an Italian national trust home in 1988. It houses the museum of the relics of the last owner, Count Guido Monzino, famous for his mountaineering and polar expeditions.
 
Villa del Pizzo
Situated in an ancient place ("in pizz" that is) on the promontory close to Villa d'Este, this site was, even as far back as the 15th century, occupied by a country house. The Comense Mugiasca family erected the villa in mid-18th century. After the death of the last owner, the Marchesa Dinetta d'Amico, the villa was opened to the public.
 
Villa Melzi
This elegant neoclassical construction located in Bellagio is listed as a historic monument. It was originally the summer residence of Napoleon's I vice president of the Italian Republic. Built between 1801 and 1810, of special note are the lakeside walk, the noble chapel, and the museum pavilion containing important archaeological findings, Napoleonic relics, and splendid renaissance frescoes.
 
Villa Olmo
Built in 1782 by Innocenzo Odescalchi, since 1926 the villa has been used for important cultural and artistic exhibitions; and since 1982, it has been used as the headquarters for the Alessandro Volta Center. Volta, the inventor of the electric battery, was a friend of Queen Caroline and helped her to purchase Villa d'Este in 1815.
 
Villa Erba
Built in 1892 by Carlo Erba, a well-known pharmaceutical industrialist, it was passed down to his grandchildren, who included Luchino Visconti. In its lakeside position, surrounded by parkland, this villa is the last beacon of a lost generation. It is a perfect setting for important occasions, exhibitions and high-level meetings.
 
Bellagio
A captivating village located on a promontory in the centre of the Lake with a fabulous scenic view. Visit the Villa Melzi and the Villa Serbelloni, site of the Rockefeller Foundation, located on the hill overlooking Bellagio. Gardens can be visited.
 
Isola Comacina
Located in front of Lenno, it is the only island on the lake. Have lunch or dinner at "La Locanda dell'Isola" an unique and legendary inn set in a romantic venue.
 
Villa Carlotta
Villa del Balbianello
Villa del Pizzo
Villa Melzi
Villa Olmo
Villa Erba
Bellagio
Isola Comacina