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    Villa d'Este

    4.7 (42 reviews)
    Ultra High-EndHotels
    Open Open 24 hours

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    Amazing.
    Glen M.

    Mama Mia! Even the "casual" diner is amazingly fancy. Excellent service, wonderful menu, beautiful setting. Bring someone else's credit card and enjoy ! (Just kidding about the credit card).

    View from The Veranda Restaurant
    Phil C.

    Highlights: * One of the finest hotels in the world * Celebrating their 150 anniversary in 2023 * Fairytale views and elegant surroundings * World Class Staff * Michelin Star Restaurant The Veranda The setting on Lake Como is magical and I believe there is no better place to enjoy the magnificent views and ambience than this beautiful hotel. It is expensive but in my opinion worth every penny. Whether you are sitting on your terrace, having a drink outside by the lake, enjoying the bountiful complimentary breakfast buffet, or dancing to the pianist by the lake after dinner at the lovely Veranda Restaurant, this place is enchanting. The 25 acres of meticulously maintained grounds are a pleasure to stroll through. You can walk up several hundred yards along slow falling fountains to a seventeenth century statue of Hercules and a mangificent view of the hotel and lake below. It was so beautiful just to soak up the ambience that we didn't even have time to use the tennis courts or putting green. You will not find a better staff in any other great hotel, they will go out of their way to please you. It is also incredible to me how every inch of the hotel from the rooms to the hallways and public areas are so well maintained. Not a stain, tear or anything out of place anywhere. I will say, in these times of businesses struggling to hire enough people there were some signs of harried staff, I had to ask for coffee at least a couple of times on every occasion at breakfast before it arrived at all. And although the Veranda has a Michelin Star, it is the ambience and service that deserves the star, as the food is good but not life changing or exceptional. Having said that, I would not hesitate to return to this extraordinary haven of tranquility and excellence that has history well beyond its 150 years as a hotel originally for royalty.

    Spaghettone
    Shawn H.

    Very expensive but excellent food. We went for a quick lunch and got the excellent fusilloni and spaghettone, both of which were excellent.

    Octopus over carrot puree
    Rosquete B.

    5p* La Veranda, Villa d'Este, Cernobbio Expensive times two For special occasions Classic Lake Como villa with tons of history Five Euros from Como by ferry to second stop Outstanding gardens, statues, and grounds ALL the staff is knowledgeable, helpful, courteous, and of course, multilingual Excellent five star food service by Francesco and Alessandro Beautiful outdoor seating with view of Lake Como Note: jackets are required for men (but no tie); classy place, dress accordingly; some guests look like Gucci models Excellent house bread Tasty amuse bouche: octopus with carrot puree Lobster fettucine was good, but a little salty Nice Milanese veal cutlet; think schnitzel Expensive wines by the glass; good but less than generous pours Expensive desserts, tiny but delicious Compliment chocolates Taxi back to Como 20 Euros; no ferry service after 7:30

    Floating pool literally floating ON Lake Como!
    Lori N.

    ***400th Review!!!*** Hooray! It has been just about two years of Yelping for me. Early on, I didn't think I'd even make it to my 40th Yelp review, but here I am now, with 400 hundred reviews and so many wonderful friends and loyal followers too! Thank YOU! I can't think of a better place for a 400th review than where we spent our honeymoon, just a few years ago. Although "the Villa", as it's often referred to, is secluded and offers plenty of privacy, don't be surprised if you have some celebrity encounters. George Clooney has a home nearby and is often seen dining at the main restaurant. He was there last summer with former President Obama and his family, along with U2's Bono. Chrissy Teigen and John Legend tied the knot at the Villa. International economic and political conferences are also held here, so plenty of world leaders roam the same grounds too. On our visit, there was a scattering of Americans, with a predominance of Russian oligarchs and their counterparts from China. When we first entered through the gates​ of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, I was literally awestruck! It's 25-acres tastefully comprised of historic fountains, statues, and lush landscaped gardens. You could easily spend an hour just taking leisurely walks around exploring the perfectly manicured grounds every day, which is what we did. The interior is truly palatial. The grand staircase and the public areas are the definitions​ of "WOW". The Renaissance-style furbished rooms are enormous. Ours was the largest 1-bedroom hotel room I've ever stayed in. It came with a huge walk-in closet and a massive bathroom with a shower and soaking tub. If you're only into modern/contemporary spaces, you might find this a bit dated or antiquated. I prefer to think of it as a place with pristinely preserved European history and flair. It was built in 1565​, started functioning as a hotel in 1873, and has a long proud history. We immensely enjoyed the buffet​ breakfast that was included every morning during our week-long stay. It easily trumps any buffet breakfast I've had anywhere in the world. It was bountiful and lavishly presented with high-quality​ foods and came with beyond stellar service to boot. We had some special requests which were accommodated​, without question. They're there to please you, and you feel it! We'd literally return just to experience their buffet breakfasts again. Seriously! The breakfast is held in their elegant main restaurant, Veranda (jacket and tie required at dinner). It's nice to have a civilized breakfast sometimes in a place where people actually dress up for breakfast, and not look as if they've just rolled right out of bed. If you want a change-up from dining on the premises, take a short walk into town. There's even a local deli that serves up amazing and very authentic Italian food. But don't miss out on having pre-dinner drinks outdoors by the floating pool that literally floats on Lake Como! It's a great place to take in the stunning lakeside views and meet some super interesting people. The service at the Villa is PHENOMENAL! Hubby is really into service, and he loved this place so much that every year he talks about returning. I have other places on the Bucket List to check-off before returning so soon, but I clearly see why he loves it so much. During the entire week, every single employee was courteous​, friendly and frequently referred to us by our names. We rarely encounter this caliber of service, particularly in the U.S. The beautiful Lake Region of Northern Italy is without question, a destination spot, and if you're in Lake Como, the Villa d' Este, an ultra-luxe world-famous​ hotel is THE place to stay! It's located in Cernobbio, a small quiet lake town in Lake Como. We took boat trips every day to quaint historic neighboring lake towns​ and meandered through idyllic Italian streets and alleyways. One of our highlights was the town of Bellagio, where Hubby had a spaghetti dish that he still raves about today. As for lodging though, no place in this region comes remotely close​ to the Villa d' Este! Of course, you can expect to "invest" serious $$$$$, but it was our honeymoon, and we wanted to start our new life off right. A stay here is definitely worth a splurge, at least once in your lifetime. You only live once, right?!? The Villa remains my #1 favorite hotel​​ stays in my lifetime, thus far, and Lake Como is my #1 favorite place​ in the world to visit. Another check off the Bucket List...Thank you to the Best Husband! I couldn't have asked for a better man or a better honeymoon!!

    Nicely maintained
    Alan B.

    Villa d'Este is located in Cernobbio, directly on Lake Como, and is surrounded by 25 acres of fabulous gardens, with statues and beautiful flowers. It was built in 1568 as the summer residence of Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, and subsequently transformed into a luxury hotel in 1873, becoming a favorite destination for the European aristocracy. Though we're not yet considered European aristocracy (nor American aristocracy!), we were able to stroll through the hotel and grounds and dine at one of their alfresco spots for lunch. Their website photos show meticulously landscaped grounds, and the villa does not disappoint in this regard. The gardens, villa and lakeside location are spectacular. I wish the same could be said for lunch, as the food was adequate at best, and considering the premium prices, somewhat of a letdown. That said, the venue is spectacular, and Villa d'Este is well worth a visit.

    view of the hotel from the ferry
    Tammie E.

    This review is for the Veranda Restaurant: We visited the glamorous Villa D'Este for lunch with my bridal party this past May. The restaurant, the hotel, the grounds are so lavish, it was like being in a dream! The food, what can I say about the food? Eating here was one of those meals that I'll remember the rest of my life! It was such a great experience! From the beautiful and artful presentation, to the quality of the food, to all the details and love put into every single portion. It was a foodies dream meal. And I loved every bite of it! The price is out of this world, but for me, it was an experience I had to do! Next, I'll have to stay in this beautiful hotel, but for now, I'll dream about this delicious meal.

    Mary K.

    One of the best hotels and memorable views ever. The service was exceptional and everything we ordered and ate was above average. Highly recommend this hotel.

    Nela S.

    Absolutely adore this place! If you ever come to Lago di Como, staying at this hotel and having some nice food and drinks on the amazing terrace is a must! In the case of this villa, it's the ambiance that speaks for itself!

    Snacks lakeside

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    3 years ago

    Love the Steph love the place love the food love the environment the room was amazing. The upgraded us will definitely go back.

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    14 years ago

    Great surroundings and impressive place. Food was good, but you can find better around the lake. A very nice place for lunch.

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    15 years ago

    Very High End ! Exquisite Hotel ...Incredible Beauty, Very Expensive ....If you can afford it ...go for it ....expect to pay $$$$$

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    14 years ago

    This place is wonderful. Great food & great views. A good way to get away from the city.

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    12 years ago

    If you like it 'over the top' then this is for you. Fantastic setting, incredible service and way over the top in every regard!

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    Villa d'Este Reviews in Other Languages

    Review Highlights - Villa d'Este

    But don't miss out on having pre-dinner drinks outdoors by the floating pool that literally floats on Lake Como!

    Mentioned in 12 reviews

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    Hotel Miralago - Restaurant Hotel Miralago

    Hotel Miralago

    (4 reviews)

    €€€

    My family and I stayed at Hotel Miralago in Cernobbio for two nights, and it was a deeply…read moredisappointing experience. Despite confirming our reservation a day before and explaining we had just returned from almost 3 weeks of traveling across Italy, we were met with rudeness and mockery from the staff about the quantity of our luggage. They assumed we didn't understand Italian and openly made fun of us in the lobby with comments like, "Are they planning on moving here?", and laughing between them. The room was in terrible condition - peeling wallpaper, stained chairs, and holes throughout. We asked to speak with the owner, and this almost bald man with glasses, who was likely just the Manager, was particularly dismissive and unapologetic when we brought up these issues. When we addressed the rude comments we openly heard in the lobby, this Manager (who also participated in the mockery) told us that their comments were just "considerations" and "to take them as we liked." Didn't offer any apology and acted as if he didn't care whether we stayed or left. We observed similar disrespectful behavior towards other foreign guests as well, which clearly shows that this is a pattern. The staff felt too comfortable making loud and unprofessional comments, including management. The only exception was the young gentleman at the concierge, who was polite and professional. It is incredibly disappointing to be treated this way, especially considering the Ambrosini family's reputation in the hospitality industry, first as owners of the Hotel Centrale and for years of the Hotel Miralago. This level of unprofessionalism and lack of hospitality is unacceptable for any hotel, let alone a 4 star hotel. We will not be returning and will advise others to avoid this place.

    Even though we did not stay here we did eat at the restaurant three nights out of the four we were…read morethere. The food was fresh and delicious. Especially good was the Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) and Gnocchi. The Gnocchi was light as air and flavors just melted away in your mouth. The service was excellent as well. But to top off the experience a lost wallet we did not even know was lost--returned that same night!! They had no idea who we were or where we were staying. The name in the wallet was not on the registration of our hotel. They went back to see what name was on our food charge, then called the other hotels until they found one with our name registered. They brought it over to our hotel and how surprised we were. We had no idea who had even returned it until we went back to eat here and the manager ask if we had received the wallet. Very modest and concerned. Very HONEST! We were very grateful and impressed. We sat outside and watched the world go by with a glass of wine before dinner. Everyone very congenial. No rushing you through dinner. We hope to return soon.

    Hotel Villa Flori

    Hotel Villa Flori

    (16 reviews)

    €€€

    A short trip thru but what a lovely find. Beautiful older hotel with fabulous dining options,…read moreextremely friendly and hospitable staff and a breathtaking view of Lake Como. Breakfast was extensive and delicious...the bar lounge had wonderful lunch options and the dinner restaurant Raimondi's was absolutely incredible. The hotel manager was always on top of every detail of our trip with a smile. Look forward to visiting again sometime!

    The customer experience was impeccable at Villa Flori. The customer service training that the…read moreentire staff must receive was far above and beyond my expectations. The reception staff were all professional, polished but extremely friendly and happy to accommodate any requests that I had. The breakfast serving staff were attentive and paid attention to every little detail. My room rate included breakfast - every single dish was impeccably prepared and presented in the morning buffet. My room was superb - a breathtaking view of the lake and a beautiful room (and an extremely comfortable bed). The entire property was gorgeous beyond words. We were at Lake Como for my son's wedding. The bride and groom stayed in the 2bd/2ba Villa. The views and the entire space was beautiful. The entire property is extremely well maintained with impeccable attention to every detail. I cannot say enough about the overall wonderful experience we had at Villa Flori. If I could give then 10 stars I certainly would! The location and everything about Villa Flori are what dreams are made of!

    Grand Hotel Imperiale - Back garden of the hotel

    Grand Hotel Imperiale

    (9 reviews)

    €€€

    We stayed at the Grand Hotel Imperiale for a few nights. We absolutely loved it. The staff and…read moreconcierge were fantastic. Our room was large, with a large balcony facing the hills. The room was quiet and the bed extremely comfortable. The buffet breakfast was excellent. The grounds of the hotel are stunning, the pool sits right on the lake with gorgeous views. We highly recommend the hotel, with its history and authentic Italian villa feel, and modern features.

    We had a fantastic time at the Grand Hotel Imperiale. We came in the middle of a 5 week trip in…read moreEurope. We were looking for some rest and relaxation, ideally in a beautiful setting with good food. This hotel absolutely delivered. We had a suite facing the lake with a large balcony. The suite and the balcony were both excellently appointed, and quite large. The bed was very comfortable. The couch, bureau, desk and chairs were all in excellent condition. The room itself was beautiful, with era appropriate design. The balcony was excellent, comfortable and quite large. There were two outdoor lounge chairs, and a table with two chairs. With all of that, there was still enough room left on the balcony for my morning workout. The grounds are beautiful. And the hotel continues its use of greenery on the balconies to separate areas for each suite. All done tastefully and the plants are all in very good condition. The breakfast buffet is fantastic. An assortment of croissants, made to order omelets, cereal, yoghurts, fruit, excellent cheeses, meats . . . It goes on and on. The staff were quite lovely and extremely helpful. In truth, I was prepared for a bit of pushback when my wife and I showed up - we are gay. Not even a blink of an eye from anyone. Unfortunately, these days that is a welcome relief. And the spa - out of this world! Massages, lovely jacuzzi/hot tub, Finnish sauna, Turkish bath and more. If you are a guest the hotel there is a small fee for the use of the spa. The pool is lovely. It sits right next to lake Como. Jumping in was easy, if you have the stamina for cold water. There is a small cafe at the pool with food and drinks. The staff brings your order out to wherever you are sitting. The village of Maltrasio is filled with beauty and lovely people. The hotel is on the shore and the village goes up the hill. The walk to the village is short, but a bit steep. All in all this is a lovely place to come if you want beauty, relaxation, good food and kind people.

    Villa d'Este - hotels - Updated May 2026

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