How to Plan a Lake Como Wedding [Free Guide]

Find Answers to The Most Common Questions About Marrying at Lake Como

Esteemed brides and grooms-to-be, welcome to our “How to Plan a Lake Como Wedding” guide!

You have selected Lake Como, or should we say Lago di Como, as the place to exchange your vows? Splendid. Our guide is a comprehensive resource for those who plan to get married on the shores of Italy’s most romantic lake.

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When you write the story of two happy lovers, let the story be set on the shores of Lake Como.
– Franz Liszt

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In our guide, we will cover the most essential questions about destination weddings at Lake Como:

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1. Is It Possible to Get Married at Lake Como?

Yes, it is possible to marry at Lake Como.

Lake Como is a popular destination for international couples who want to tie the knot in a scenic and romantic location. Note, however, that most destination weddings at Lake Como are symbolic in nature, and not civil weddings.

A symbolic wedding does not have legal significance. It is simply a celebration (or symbol) of your love. Destination wedding couples typically have their civil wedding in their home country.

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2. Why Is Lake Como a Popular Wedding Destination?

Lake Como is often hailed as the most beautiful lake in the world, and it’s not just the scenery that draws couples here. The region offers exclusive, one-of-a-kind wedding venues like Villa d’Este, Villa Pizzo, Villa Erba, Villa Monastero, or Villa Balbiano, each with its own breathtaking charm and history.

Beyond the venues, it is the Italian experience that sets Lake Como apart – la dolce vita, where every moment is infused with the pleasures of fine food, wine, and unparalleled hospitality. Think pizza, pasta, and oh-so-delicious vino!

This blend of natural beauty, unique venues, and the essence of Italy makes Lake Como an irresistible wedding destination.

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3. How Much Is a Lake Como Wedding?

The cost of a Lake Como wedding can vary widely, from around US$15,000 for an intimate elopement to US$300,000 or more for a lavish, large-scale celebration.

The beauty of Lake Como is that almost anything is possible—whether you’re planning a simple ceremony or a multi-day event with 200 guests, fireworks, live entertainment, and luxury accommodations at a 5-star lakeside hotel.

Find out more about the cost of a Lake Como wedding here.

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4. Is Lake Como Expensive for Weddings?

Lake Como is indeed a premium wedding destination, often commanding higher prices than less well-known regions in Italy.

However, it can cater to a wide range of budgets. The total cost depends on the number of guests, your vision, and how much you’re willing to DIY. With creativity and thoughtful planning, you can still enjoy the splendor of Lake Como without breaking the bank. And remember: Lake Como itself is stunningly beautiful that it doesn’t take too much to have an unforgettable wedding on its shores!

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5. What Are Popular Lake Como Wedding Venues?

Lake Como boasts some of the world’s most iconic and sought-after wedding venues. Among them are Villa d’Este, known for its timeless elegance; Villa Pizzo, with its romantic lakeside gardens; Villa Erba, offering grandeur and history; Villa Monastero, with its stunning views and serene ambiance; and Villa Balbiano, renowned for its opulence and exclusivity.

Discover these and other venues at Lake Como, and find out their cost, here.

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6. What Is the Best Month to Get Married in Lake Como?

The wedding season at Lake Como runs from April to October. The most popular months are May, June, and September when the climate is pleasantly warm without being too hot.

July and August are not only very hot, but it is also the time of the year when Lake Como gets very busy, due to the European summer holidays. Avoid these months if you can. Not only are they busy, but they are also expensive, due to the competition for hotel rooms, wedding venues, and other vendors.

Our recommendation is to pick a month that does not coincide with European summer holidays.

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7. What Should You Wear to a Lake Como Wedding?

The dress code for a Lake Como wedding can range from black tie to more relaxed, elegant attire, depending on the couple’s preferences and the venue.

For a black-tie affair, think formal gowns and tuxedos, perfectly complementing the grandeur of the setting. For a more casual yet sophisticated vibe, light, flowy dresses, linen suits, and smart separates are ideal, reflecting the relaxed elegance of the Italian lakeside.

Consider the season as well. Summer weddings may call for breathable fabrics and lighter colors, while evening events might require a stylish cover-up. Always aim for a look that balances sophistication with comfort, in line with the scenic and luxurious atmosphere of Lake Como.

PS: If you’re up for a last-minute adventure, consider shopping for your attire in Lake Como! Exploring the local boutiques and finding Italian-inspired fashion can be a fun experience. It’s a unique way to ensure your outfit is not only stylish but also a memorable part of your wedding journey.

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8. Is a Planner Required for a Wedding at Lake Como?

For a large-scale, luxurious wedding at Lake Como, a professional wedding planner is essential to handle the complexity and ensure everything runs smoothly. Fortunately, Lake Como is home to some of the world’s top planners – here are our top five recommendations.

For smaller weddings, it is possible to plan and organize the event without a planner, depending on how involved you want to be. Visiting Lake Como before your wedding to get familiar with the area and scout out vendors makes this task a lot more manageable.

Lastly, for elopements at Lake Como, look for providers that offer specialized elopement packages to simplify the process.

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9. How Do You Find a Caterer at Lake Como?

If your wedding is at a hotel, especially a 5-star venue at Lake Como, catering is usually handled in-house by their professional team. This ensures a seamless experience for you and your guests.

However, for venues that aren’t hotels and allow you to choose your caterer, it’s best to start by asking the venue for their recommendations. These caterers will be familiar with the venue’s infrastructure and know how to navigate any logistical challenges, ensuring smooth service on your big day.

If the venue’s suggestions don’t meet your expectations, consider turning to wedding forums like Reddit, Facebook Groups or Instagram for personal recommendations. These platforms can connect you with other couples who have firsthand experience with local caterers, helping you make an informed decision.

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10. Can We Elope at Lake Como?

Yes, you can absolutely elope at Lake Como. Some venues are very elopement-friendly, offering short-term rentals specifically for intimate ceremonies or photo sessions.

Whether you’re looking for a simple exchange of vows or a micro-wedding with close family and friends, Lake Como has stunning options. Villa Monastero and Villa del Balbianello are particularly popular choices for elopements, thanks to their affordable, short-term packages, breathtaking settings and romantic ambiance.

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11. Are There Lake Como Wedding Packages?

Yes, there are venues at Lake Como that offer packages.

However, compared to regions like the US, Mexico, or the Caribbean, where big resorts offer all-inclusive packages, wedding packages are less common in Europe. When available, these packages often include various services such as venue rental, catering, and decoration, tailored to different wedding sizes and styles. They typically do not include everything (DJs, entertainment, flowers, etc.) required for a wedding.

For a more personalized wedding, many couples choose to customize their plans with local vendors and planners to create a unique celebration. If you are interested in packages, it is a good idea to inquire directly with venues to see what options they offer and how they can be tailored to your needs. More often than not, the venue will recommend a list of preferred vendors, rather than a full package.

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12. How Do You Get to Lake Como?

Organizing a destination wedding at Lake Como often means many guests will travel from afar to be with you. The closest major airport to Lake Como is Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), which is about an hour’s drive from the lake. Alternatively, Milan Linate Airport (LIN) is around 1.5 hours away, and Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) is about 1.5 to 2 hours away.

From the airport, guests can reach Lake Como by car, private transfer, or train, with regular connections available. For those traveling by train, Milan’s central station offers direct services to Como San Giovanni.

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13. What Are Lake Como Alternatives?

Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, and Puglia are excellent alternatives to a Lake Como wedding.

Tuscany is renowned for its rolling hills, vineyards, and historic villas. Venues range from rustic farmhouses to luxurious estates, ideal for both intimate and grand celebrations.

The Amalfi Coast is famous for its dramatic coastal scenery, cliffside villages, and stunning Mediterranean views. Popular venues include seaside resorts and charming historic villas.

Last, Puglia, known for its unique trulli houses, beautiful coastline, and rustic charm, provides a more off-the-beaten-path option. The region features elegant seaside venues, perfect for a distinctive and memorable wedding experience.