Recently named the best hotel in the world, Villa Passalacqua in Moltrasio has redefined the meaning of "quiet  luxury" on Lake Como. This 18th-century estate, once the home of composer Vincenzo Bellini, sits on an elevated  promontory that offers some of the most expansive views of the water.

As the largest private residence on the lake, Villa Balbiano is a monumental 16th -century palazzo that serves as  the ultimate backdrop for high-fashion, high-production events. Located in Ossuccio, the estate is famous for its  impeccably manicured Italian gardens - awarded by the British Society of Garden Designers - and its direct access  to the water via a private pier.

Perched on the tip of the wooded Lavedo promontory, Villa del Balbianello is perhaps the most photographed and  iconic wedding location in the world. Accessible only by boat, this 18th -century sanctuary is famous for its  majestic Loggia Durini, where the sprawling ivy and panoramic lake views create a setting of incomparable  romance.

Regarded as the "Grande Dame" of Lake Como, Villa d’Este in Cernobbio has been the gold standard of European  hospitality since 1873. This former 16th-century princely residence is surrounded by 25 acres of legendary  parkland, including the world-famous Mosaic Garden.

Considered the "aristocratic annex" of the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Villa Sola Cabiati is an exquisitely preserved  16th-century residence that was once the summer home of the Serbelloni Dukes. This Neoclassical masterpiece  is a temple of Italian art, featuring museum-quality frescoes, ornate stucco work, and a bed once slept in by  Napoleon.

Hidden in a secluded cove near Torno, Villa Pliniana is the oldest and most mysterious estate on the lake, built  directly over a natural spring mentioned by Leonardo da Vinci. This 16th-century palazzo is a favorite for high capacity, ultra -private events, offering a moody and poetic brand of luxury that feels entirely removed from the  public eye.

A temple of cinematic history and Italian Neorealism, Villa Erba in Cernobbio was the childhood home of director  Luchino Visconti and famously served as the set for Ocean's Twelve. This late 19th -century estate is a masterclass  in scale, featuring a towering panoramic tower and a soaring cathedral-like entrance hall.

Known for having the longest lakefront walkway in the region, Villa Pizzo is a noble 17th -century residence that  offers a more intimate, "hidden garden" atmosphere. Located between Cernobbio and Moltrasio, the estate is  characterized by its pastel-pink façade and its tiered gardens filled with exotic Mediterranean plants.

Set in the charming village of Laglio - home to the lake’s most famous A-list residents - Villa Regina Teodolinda  is an authentic and chic lakeside retreat named after the legendary Queen of the Lombards. This boutique venue  offers a rare combination of cozy, "lived-in" luxury and elite waterfront access.