Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Palaces

Villa del Balbianello

Lenno, Italy

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST PALACES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 23 2026
Villa del Balbianello

Villa on the wooded Lavedo peninsula at Lenno, on Lake Como, last owned and furnished by explorer Guido Monzino. Guided tours show maps, a library and archaic art inside, while terraced gardens, a loggia and Star Wars and James Bond film spots overlook the lake.

Highlights

  • Terraced lakeside gardens
  • Loggia with lake views
  • Monzino's library and maps

Good to know

  • Book online ahead; on-site queues last hours
  • Villa interior by guided tour only
  • Steep uphill walk, or boat from Lenno

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