Imagine stepping into a world where the beauty of Lake Como seamlessly blends with the allure of the silver screen. Known for its breathtaking panoramas and luxurious villas, Lake Como has played host to numerous iconic films. From the charming Villa del Balbianello, famously featured in the James Bond film “Casino Royale,” to the elegant Villa Erba, a favorite of Italian director Luchino Visconti, these sites offer a perfect marriage of art, history, and cinematic magic.
As you wander through these lakeside retreats, you’ll find yourself on Hitchcock’s silent movie set, surrounded by the same enchanting scenery that once captivated the legendary director.
Villa del Balbianello’s terraced gardens, perched over the shimmering waters, offer a scenic backdrop that has elevated many films to iconic status. The villa isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a testament to artistic and architectural grandeur, inviting you to glimpse into Italy’s rich cinematic past.
The legacy doesn’t end there. With its grand rooms and lush gardens, Villa Erba has provided the perfect setting for film legends.
In Visconti’s “Ludwig,” the masterpiece was edited in this villa’s serene environment. Whether you’re a film buff, a history enthusiast, or an architecture lover, Lake Como’s villas promise to transport you to a different era, where every corner holds a story waiting to be told.
Film-Famous Villas You Can Rent
1. Villa Del Cinema
Villa Del Balbianello on Lake Como stands as an iconic cinematic landmark. Perched elegantly overlooking the serene waters, this 18th-century villa has been a backdrop for several major films.
You’ll recognize this villa from the James Bond film Casino Royale. Its picturesque gardens and terraces provided the perfect setting for scenes of intrigue and romance.
Another notable appearance is in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones. The villa’s breathtaking landscapes were used to depict the planet Naboo, offering fans a glimpse of scenic lakeside beauty.
Villa Del Balbianello is also featured in the movie A Month by the Lake. Its historical charm and vibrant scenery helped set the mood for this romantic drama.
Beyond movies, the villa’s romantic aura makes it a popular venue for weddings and private events. Though you can’t stay overnight, it remains a must-visit for film buffs looking to follow their favorite characters’ footsteps.
You can tour the gardens and the villa’s exquisite interiors when visiting. It’s an immersive experience akin to stepping onto a real-life movie set.
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2. Casa Film
When you think of glamorous movie settings, Lake Como’s villas undoubtedly come to mind. Villa Erba in Cernobbio is a prime example.
This 19th-century villa boasts stunning architecture and hosted the production of Ocean’s Twelve. You can almost picture George Clooney and Brad Pitt strolling through its grand halls.
Another gem on Lake Como is the Villa del Balbianello. Featured in The Other Man, this villa is picturesquely on a wooded peninsula.
For movie buffs, it’s fascinating to explore this location and relive scenes from the film. The villa’s lush gardens and panoramic lake views offer a cinematic experience.
The film industry has repeatedly been drawn to Lake Como, not just for its scenic beauty but for its historical and architectural allure. A Month By The Lake, filmed across various villas around the lake, captures the enchanting ambiance of the area.
Here’s a quick breakdown of some iconic villas featured in movies:
| Villa | Movies |
|---|---|
| Villa Erba | Ocean’s Twelve |
| Villa del Balbianello | The Other Man |
| Multiple Villas | A Month By The Lake, others |
Visiting these villas, you step into the scenes of unforgettable movies, feeling the blend of real history and cinematic storylines. Stroll through the gardens, explore the rooms, and imagine the directors calling “action!” as historic Lake Como villas transform into timeless movie sets.
3. Villa Star
Villa del Balbianello is an iconic location perched above Lake Como. This 18th-century villa has served as the backdrop for multiple movies. It appears in James Bond: Casino Royale as a place of rest and recovery for the famous spy. It is also featured in St
Villa Oleandra, located in Laglio, is famous not only for its presence in Hollywood films but also for being the home of George Clooney. Clooney’s residency has attracted many celebrities to this charming villa. The historic structure, combined with its Hollywood connections, makes it a highlight of Lake Como’s star-studded properties.
Movies Filmed:
- Villa del Balbianello:
- James Bond: Casino Royale
- Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones
- Villa Oleandra:
- Known for George Clooney and celebrity gatherings
Unique Features:
Villa del Balbianello:
- Rich history since 1787
- Stunning views over Lake Como
- Extensive gardens and picturesque loggia
Villa Oleandra:
These villas epitomize the cinematic allure of Lake Como, attracting both filmmakers and celebrities alike.
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4. Borgo Hollywood
Borgo Hollywood is a captivating area around Lake Como known for its luxurious villas that have graced numerous Hollywood films. In this section, you’ll discover the distinguished Casa Del Cinema and the iconic Villa Cinema, each with unique allure and cinematic history.
Casa Del Cinema
Casa Del Cinema is a stunning villa epitomizing classic Italian luxury and style. Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Como, it has an unparalleled view of the shimmering waters and surrounding mountains. This villa is renowned for its role in several Hollywood blockbusters, including Casino Royale and Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones.
The villa’s architecture features elegant neoclassical designs, tall pillars, and expansive gardens. The interiors are adorned with elaborate frescoes and vintage furnishings, providing an authentic period feel that captivates filmmakers and visitors alike.
When you stroll through its manicured gardens, you can’t help but feel part of a grand cinematic journey. Staying at Casa Del Cinema is like stepping into a movie set, surrounded by opulence and history.
Villa Cinema
Villa Cinema, another gem in Borgo Hollywood, is celebrated for its exclusive charm and picturesque setting. This 18th-century villa has been a favorite for filmmakers due to its spectacular facade and panoramic views of Lake Como. Iconic films like Ocean’s Twelve and A Month by the Lake have used this villa as a backdrop, showcasing its impressive architecture and lush gardens.
The villa’s terraced gardens, replete with statues and balustrades, add to its cinematic appeal. Inside, you’ll find exquisitely decorated rooms with rich fabrics and antique decor, making the villa a perfect setting for historical and romantic films.
Villa Cinema offers a unique blend of natural beauty and architectural elegance, making it a must-see for movie enthusiasts and luxury travelers. Visiting or staying in Villa Cinema allows you to experience the grandeur and glamour that has enchanted Hollywood for decades.
5. Casa Del Cinema
Nestled on the banks of Lake Como, Casa Del Cinema is an iconic cinematic villa that offers an Italian backdrop like no other. This villa has graced the silver screen in several memorable films, cementing its status as a must-visit location for film enthusiasts.
Notable Films
Casa Del Cinema has been famously featured in A Month by the Lake (1995), starring Vanessa Redgrave and Uma Thurman. The villa’s classic architecture and stunning lake views provided the perfect setting for this romantic comedy set just before WWII.
Unique Features
Casa Del Cinema boasts intricate interiors and expansive gardens, making it an ideal filming location. The villa overlooks the sparkling waters of Lake Como, offering breathtaking views that have captivated both filmmakers and audiences alike. Whether you are strolling through the meticulously manicured gardens or taking in the lakefront panorama, the villa is truly a cinematic marvel.
Filming in Bellagio
Just a short distance from Bellagio, another famous locale often associated with Lake Como’s film settings, Casa Del Cinema offers easy access to the region’s other scenic spots. The proximity to Bellagio puts you in the heart of one of Italy’s most picturesque areas.
Celebrity Connections
This enchanting villa has also caught the attention of celebrities like Amal Clooney, who are often seen enjoying the serene beauty of Lake Como. The allure of Casa Del Cinema isn’t just in its film credentials but in its ability to attract the world’s elite.
The Setting
Its chessboard-like gardens perfectly complement the villa’s grandiose aesthetic, and filmmaking at Casa Del Cinema is made special. The villa’s interiors, filled with period pieces and luxurious furnishings, offer filmmakers a versatile set capable of telling various stories. Visiting Casa Del Cinema lets you enter a world where cinematic history meets timeless elegance.
See Related: Villa Vacations for Groups: How to Plan a Group Stay
6. Villa Cinema
Lake Como has been a picturesque backdrop for many iconic movies, with its historic villas providing the perfect setting.
Villa del Balbianello
One of the most celebrated locations is Villa del Balbianello. The villa’s enchanting terraced gardens featured prominently in the James Bond movie Casino Royale. The villa also appeared in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, enhancing its cinematic legacy.
Villa Erba
Villa Erba, another renowned location, has been featured in several films. Its stunning architecture was a notable presence in the 1972 film directed by Luchino Visconti. The villa’s grandeur made it an excellent choice for various cinematic endeavors.
Villa Gaeta
Villa Gaeta starred in Casino Royale as the residence of the film’s villain. Sitting majestically by the lake, this villa’s unique façade left a lasting impression on viewers. Its captivating design adds a layer of elegance to the scenes shot here.
The Luzhin Defence
The lush surroundings of Lake Como create a mesmerizing setting in The Luzhin Defence. This movie, featuring John Turturro and Emily Watson, was partly filmed at Villa d’Este. The villa’s opulent interiors and scenic views set the perfect stage for this romantic thriller.
Villa La Cassinella
Villa La Cassinella, with its secluded location and expansive gardens, provided a tranquil setting for several scenes in Ocean’s Twelve. The villa’s secluded charm made it an ideal hideaway for the film’s Night Fox character.
Each villa on Lake Como offers a distinctive charm that enhances its cinematic appeal. Their timeless beauty continues to captivate filmmakers and audiences alike.
