Tucked at the base of the stunning Italian Alps, Lake Como has long been known for its magical beauty. Home to picturesque villages, dreamy landscapes, grand villas, emerald green mountains and sparkling blue shores, it's no wonder that couples from around the world flock to get married in Lake Como. It makes for the perfect ‘dolce vita’ wedding location.
Thinking about getting married in Lake Como?
In this complete guide, we'll dive head first into all of the details of planning a Lake Como wedding and everything you need to know along the way. Let’s explore it all from the price of a Lake Como wedding to the best venues for your special day.
What is the average cost of a wedding in Lake Como?
Choosing to get married in Lake Como is filled with magic and excitement, there’s a reason why it’s one of the most popular wedding locations in Italy. The average cost of a wedding in Lake Como all depends on a few elements from the size, style and time of year/day of week. On average, couples can expect to spend anywhere from £50,000 to £100,000+, between the venue, catering, accommodation and many other larger and smaller details. From intimate affairs to grand wedding celebrations, Lake Como offers a great range of options to suit your budget. Check out our comprehensive guide on the cost of weddings in Italy for more information.
The magnetic spell that Lake Como has on future weds from all over the world is not just due to its natural beauty; it extends to the charming venues that are dotted all around the lake. Before you look into the finer details, the cost of your wedding in Lake Como is directly impacted by the venue you choose. The more renowned villa you decide on, the higher the costs will be, but trust us when we say the cost is almost always well worth it, as these venues typically provide an incredible backdrop that is truly out of this world.
Is Lake Como a good place to get married?
Hands down, a BIG Yes! Without a doubt, Lake Como is a top wedding location often chosen by couples dreaming up a romantic and scenic wedding destination that offers that ‘Dolce Vita’ vibe. The sparkling lake waters, lush hilly greenery and charming villages create a dreamy setting that's second to none. Whether you’re planning on an intimate lakeside ceremony or a lavish celebration in a historic villa, believe us when we say Lake Como has it all.
Figuring out whether this location is right for you is a personal choice. Be sure to make sure a lake wedding aligns with your dream vision, as well as logistical practicalities. Is Lake Como easily accessible for your guests travelling in from around the world? We believe it is, the nearest major airport is Milan Malpensa, and from there, it's about a 1-1.5 hour drive to Lake Como. Alternatively, you can use regional airports like Milan Linate or Bergamo. Trains and buses also connect the area, providing convenient transportation options for all your guests.
When it comes to the weather, overall, it's fab for most of the year, making Lake Como a popular Italian wedding destination. Summers (June to August) are nice and warm, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F). Spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) offer milder temperatures, ideal for outdoor ceremonies & receptions. Winters (November to February) can be cool, with temperatures averaging around 0-10°C (32-50°F).
Keep in mind that the region offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a versatile spot to dream up a variety of wedding styles. From rustic hill top alfresco celebrations to glamorous soirees lakefront, Como accommodates diverse tastes, another reason why it’s great place to get married in.
Chrissy Teigen and John Legend's Como Wedding
What famous weddings have taken place in Lake Como?
Lake Como has played host to numerous celebrity weddings in Italy, and remains a top destination for destination weddings in Italy. Notable among these is the romantic marriage of John Legend and Chrissy Teigen in 2013. The couple's wedding added a touch of glamour to the already star-studded reputation of this picturesque location.
Emily Blunt and John Krasinski also chose Lake Como back in 2010 for their stunning wedding. The couple's intimate ceremony was set against the stunning backdrop of the lake and took full advantage of the romantic allure of this Italian paradise.
These celebrity weddings in Italy not only add to the attraction of Lake Como but also showcase the diversity of venues available for couples looking to make their own mark in this romantic haven. From private estates to historic villas, Lake Como is a popular wedding spot for celebrities, giving us all the inspiration we need for our own.
Villa Lario Resort
How do I get married in Lake Como?
Planning a destination wedding can seem daunting, but totally doable and totally worth every time spent planning. When it comes to the process, you'll need to provide the necessary documentation, including a Certificate of No Impediment. Working with an experienced Italy wedding planner can also alleviate the stress, ensuring that legal requirements are met, and your day is perfectly executed.
Lake Como is known for its warm hospitality, and local wedding planners often have established connections with vendors and venues. This can be a significant advantage, as they can guide you through the legalities, recommend trusted suppliers, and ensure that every detail aligns with your vision for the perfect day. Better yet, your Italy wedding planner will ensure your day is stress-free so you can focus on enjoying the celebrations!
If you’re up for the challenge to do it yourself, the ins and outs of getting married in Lake Como is no different to anywhere else in Italy. Feel free to browse through our step by step guide where we walk you through planning a wedding in Italy.
Can you get legally married in Lake Como?
Absolutely! So long as the proper paperwork is submitted, that is. From civil ceremonies to religious rites, Lake Como caters to various preferences, making your marriage legally binding in this enchanting destination.
Legal requirements can vary, so it's important to start the paperwork well in advance. Your Italy wedding planner or the local authorities can guide you through the specific steps and ensure that all necessary documents are in order. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free process, allowing you to focus on your big Lake Como wedding day.
How far in advance should I book my wedding at Lake Como?
Securing your dream wedding venue in Lake Como requires some advance planning. Ideally, couples should book a venue at least 12 to 18 months in advance. Believe us when we say that some of the popular villas are even booked up 2 years in advance, maybe even three. Yep, these well-known venues tend to fill up quickly, especially during the peak wedding season, which runs from late spring to early autumn. Planning well in advance ensures you have your pick of the best locations and vendors for the celebration of your dreams.
Lake Como's popularity as a wedding destination means that key venues can be in high demand. By booking well in advance, you not only secure your preferred date but also have ample time to coordinate with vendors, plan the finer details, and make any necessary travel arrangements for yourselves and your guests. Use our directory to discover a wide range of wedding venues in Italy that you’ll love.
Photography by Eros d'Angelo Ph
Which villa in Lake Como is best for a wedding?
Choosing the perfect villa for your Lake Como wedding is a decision that will shape the entire ambiance of your special day. The region boasts an array of stunning venues, each with its unique charm. Let's explore some of the top wedding venues in Lake Como for a magical day:
Nestled on the western shore of Lake Como, the Mandarin Oriental offers a luxurious and sophisticated setting for your wedding. With lush gardens, elegant interiors, and a panoramic view of the lake, this venue exudes opulence and timeless beauty. As a big plus, the floating infinity pool is to die for, perfect for a post wedding pool party.
Villa Balbiano
Steeped in history and surrounded by manicured gardens, Villa Balbiano is a historic gem on the shores of Lake Como. Its timeless architecture and lakeside location provide a romantic backdrop for an ultra luxe wedding in Como. The villa's refined ambiance captures the essence of a fairy tale wedding. Note that this is one of the venues to book in advance as weekend slots fill up quickly.
For a blend of modern luxury and classic Italian charm, Villa Lario Resort is an excellent choice. The villa boasts stylish interiors, stunning lake views, a lake view pool and beautifully landscaped gardens. It offers a versatile setting for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations.
Situated in the heart of Lake Como, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo combines old-world charm with modern luxury. With its iconic floating pool and panoramic views of Bellagio, this venue provides a picturesque setting for a lakeside Como wedding.
For couples seeking a fairy tale setting, Castello di Rossino, perched on a hill overlooking Lake Como, is an enchanting choice. The medieval one-of-a-kind castle offers a romantic atmosphere with its historic architecture and panoramic vistas. The expansive grounds and elegant halls make it a captivating venue for a dream wedding.
With its stunning panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains, Villa Ponti Bellavista offers a romantic and intimate setting. The villa's terraced gardens offer a beautiful backdrop for ceremonies and alfresco reception dining outside, while the historic interiors add a touch of classic elegance.
If you're looking for a magical and dreamlike Italian wedding, trust us when we say there's no place like Lake Como. Lake Como is the ultimate choice for your wedding – a blend of rustic charm, stunning scenery, and timeless elegance. Dream up the idea of saying “I do" in the stunning village of Bellagio or the quaint town of Varenna. Whether you're drawn to the grandeur of Villa Balbiano, the intimacy of Castello di Rossino, or the lakeside allure of Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como, this glistening lake offers some of the dreamiest places to choose from.
