Where Movies Come to Life: Lake Como Film Sets
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Lake Como is known worldwide for stunning views, grand private and public villas and lush gardens. In recent years the Lario has experienced increased interest as a location for film sets for major national and international advertising campaigns and films. Even the Lumière brothers shot one of their first films there) a natural film set. Among the small most famous ones, “The Shadow of Suspicion” with Antonio Banderas, “The Defense of Luzhin” based on Nabokov's novel, “Ocean's Twelve,” Alfred Hitchcock's silent film “The Garden of Pleasure,” “A Month at the Lake” with Uma Thurman and Alessandro Gassman, “Casino Royale,” and the second installment of the new Star Wars trilogy should definitely be mentioned. This tour focuses on some of the lake views that have become particularly famous as a result of their appearance on the silver screen. Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello will be the absolute stars.
Available options
Where Movies Come to Life: Lake Como Film Sets
Pickup included
What's included
Entrance ticket to Villa Carlotta and the garden
Private transportation
Private tourist guide available for the whole day
Transfer by taxi-boat Lido di Lenno / Villa del Balbianello a / r
Entrance ticket to Villa del Balbianello and garden
Detailed itinerary
1
During the drive, your guide will provide historical and anecdotal information along the way
2
Stop 2
Villa Balbianello, perched in a breathtaking position on a promontory overlooking the lake. The late-baroque mansion, surrounded by a beautiful park, was chosen as a movie set for: Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002), Agent 007 - Casino Royale (2006).
3
Tremezzo is a pretty village where the Italian writer Mario Soldati with the help of Carlo Ponti and Alberto Lattuada, two famous Italian directors, wrote the script for "Piccolo mondo antico" (1941), based on the famous novel by Antonio Fogazzaro (1895 ). Guided tour of Villa Carlotta, an eighteenth-century residence commissioned by the Marquis Clerici, where a collection of neoclassical works of art (Antonio Canova, Bertel Thorvaldsen and Francesco Hayez) and furniture dating back to that period are preserved. In the large botanical garden you can admire species of trees from all over the world.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.0
1 reviews
5★
0
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
In front of the Hotel Barchetta Excelsior
About Lake Como
Lake Como, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, is renowned for its stunning villas, serene waters, and picturesque towns. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking relaxation and elegance.
Top Attractions
Villa del Balbianello
A stunning villa with beautiful gardens and a rich history, featured in films like Star Wars and Casino Royale.
Historical
2-3 hours
€10-€15
Como Cathedral
A beautiful example of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, featuring intricate details and a grand façade.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Villa Carlotta
A historic villa with beautiful gardens and a museum showcasing art and natural history.
Historical
3-4 hours
€10-€15
Must-Try Local Dishes
Missoltino
Dried and salted fish, typically served with polenta.
Dish
Contains fish
Risotto al pesce persico
Risotto made with perch, a local fish.
Dish
Contains fish
Polenta e formaggio
Polenta served with local cheese.
Dish
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boating
Cycling
Spa treatments
Lakefront walks
Sunbathing
Villa tours
Art museums
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak season offers warm weather, vibrant atmosphere, and numerous outdoor activities. However, it can be crowded with tourists.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lake Como is generally safe with low crime rates. However, travelers should take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or pre-arranged transfers
Getting there
By air
- Milano Malpensa Airport • 50 km
- Milano Linate Airport • 60 km
By train
Como San Giovanni
By bus
Como Bus Station, Bellagio Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Ferries are the most scenic and convenient way to travel between towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber is not widely available
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Como
Bellagio
Varenna
Day trips
Milan
50 km • Full day
A vibrant city known for its fashion, art, and architecture, including the famous Duomo and La Scala opera house.
Bergamo
60 km • Full day
A charming medieval city with a well-preserved old town and stunning views from the upper city.
Festivals
Lake Como Film Festival • July
Como Opera Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit lesser-known towns like Varenna and Menaggio for a more authentic experience
- Take a boat tour to see the lake from different perspectives
- Explore the surrounding mountains for stunning views and hiking opportunities
- Try local specialties like missoltino and risotto al pesce persico
- Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
