As a wedding photographer with a documentary approach, I’ve always been drawn to venues that tell a story on their own—places where light dances effortlessly and where each corner offers a natural frame for emotion to unfold. Villa del Balbianello on Lake Como is one such location. It’s a venue that exudes quiet sophistication and timeless romance, and from a photographic point of view, it’s nothing short of a dream.

If you’re planning a destination wedding in Italy and considering this iconic lakeside villa, this guide will walk you through what to expect, what to plan for, and why it’s one of the most captivating venues in Europe.

A Venue Rich in Romance and History

Perched on a wooded promontory in Lenno, Villa del Balbianello was originally built in the 18th century as a summer retreat. Over the years, it’s served many purposes, but today it’s best known for its cinematic beauty and elegant gardens, attracting couples from all over the world.

The villa is only accessible by boat (or a 15-minute walk uphill), which gives your wedding day a distinctly romantic and private feel. Arriving across the lake by boat is something truly special—it sets the tone for the celebration and creates a wonderful anticipation for your guests.

Tip: Schedule your arrival by boat to allow extra time for a slow, scenic approach. It’s often one of the most memorable parts of the day, and from a photography standpoint, it’s an opportunity to capture beautiful candid moments against the sparkling lake.

Photographing at Villa del Balbianello

What makes Villa del Balbianello so exceptional for photography is the natural composition built into its design. The terraced gardens, dramatic stonework, arched loggias, and panoramic lake views create layers of visual interest without the need for artificial staging.

From a photographer’s perspective, light is everything—and this venue offers it in abundance. The reflection from the lake bounces warm, flattering tones back onto the couple’s faces, and the filtered sunlight through the trees softens the shadows for beautifully romantic portraits.

Tip: The best light for couple portraits here tends to be around golden hour—just before sunset—when the lake takes on a golden hue and the gardens are bathed in soft, diffused light. Plan your portrait session with this in mind to make the most of the location.

The Ceremony: Saying “I Do” at the Loggia Durini

Most couples choose to host their ceremony at the Loggia Durini, the open-air stone terrace at the heart of the villa. With its dramatic twin-arch structure and sweeping views across Lake Como, it’s a breathtaking setting that feels both grand and intimate.

As a documentary photographer, I always seek out those in-between moments: the glance before the vows, the breeze catching a veil, the hand squeeze just before walking down the aisle. The Loggia is the perfect setting for this approach—allowing movement, emotion, and interaction to unfold naturally.

Tip: Be mindful of the timing. Ceremonies here are often restricted to late afternoon, so working with a planner to coordinate the timeline is essential. The golden Italian light is your friend, but you want to avoid the harsh midday sun, which can be unflattering in photographs.

Styling and Atmosphere: Let the Location Shine

The beauty of Villa del Balbianello is that it doesn’t need much added décor to feel special. Many couples opt for minimalist floral arrangements that complement the existing gardens, or soft, neutral colour palettes that echo the earthy tones of the villa’s stonework.

Tip: Less is more. Focus on elements that enhance rather than compete—elegant table settings, candles for ambient light, and personal touches like handwritten place cards or custom vow books. These small details photograph beautifully and create a cohesive story across your imagery.

Planning Tips for a Seamless Day

1. Hire a Local Wedding Planner

Working with an experienced wedding planner who knows the logistics of the venue is absolutely key. Villa del Balbianello has strict regulations around timing, noise, and access, and a planner can navigate all of this for you.

Tip: Look for planners based in Lake Como who are familiar with the villa staff and suppliers. They’ll be able to recommend trusted vendors, handle transport logistics, and ensure your day runs smoothly.

2. Plan for Transport and Timing

All guests must arrive by boat (unless walking), and this adds a romantic but logistically complex element to the day. Boats must run on a schedule, and you’ll need to allow extra time for movement between locations.

Tip: Consider hiring a private boat for portraits after the ceremony—it’s a wonderful moment of calm between the ceremony and reception, and the images are often some of the most relaxed and intimate of the day.

3. Be Prepared for Weather Variability

Lake Como is known for its microclimate. While the summer is generally warm and sunny, weather can change quickly—especially in spring or autumn.

Tip: Have a clear Plan B in case of rain. The villa offers a few covered options, but they must be arranged in advance. Umbrellas and light wraps are also wise for guest comfort.

Capturing the Reception and Evening Light

While Villa del Balbianello doesn’t allow late-night receptions, many couples choose to host a dinner on-site followed by an evening celebration at a nearby venue. The dinner often takes place under a marquee on the lawn or inside one of the loggias, surrounded by candlelight and music.

From a photographic standpoint, this is where storytelling shines. The transition from day to dusk offers a change in mood and lighting that adds depth to your wedding gallery. The laughter over dinner, the toasts, and the first dances all benefit from a low-light, documentary style that captures the atmosphere without intrusion.

Tip: Use warm lighting and low candles to create a soft, romantic ambiance for dinner. Avoid bright uplighting or coloured LEDs, as they can distort skin tones in photographs.

The Villa del Balbianello Experience – Why It’s Worth It

There’s something truly unique about Villa del Balbianello. It’s more than just a beautiful backdrop—it’s a place that brings a sense of stillness, ceremony, and significance to your wedding day. And while it does require careful planning and a thoughtful approach, the rewards are more than worth the effort.

For couples who value authentic storytelling and timeless photography, Balbianello offers the perfect balance of elegance and intimacy. It’s a venue where you can fully immerse yourself in the experience, knowing that every moment will be captured with care and sensitivity.

Final Thoughts From Behind the Lens

As a photographer who’s passionate about honest, emotional storytelling, Villa del Balbianello allows me to do what I do best—capture connection. From the anticipation before the ceremony to the quiet moments after the vows, every part of the day is rich with potential.

If you’re considering getting married here and want photography that reflects the natural beauty and authenticity of your day, I’d love to hear more about your plans. This is a venue that deserves to be documented with heart and intention—and I’d be honoured to be part of your story.

If you’re planning a Villa del Balbianello wedding and are looking for elegant, relaxed and authentic photography, get in touch—I’d be delighted to chat about your vision.