We are returning to Lake Como in May. I have always wanted to see the gardens at the Villa d'Este in Cernobbio. Can one just tour the gardens and not stay at the hotel? Can we eat lunch and then tour the Gardens? Please advise.

Villa d'Este is a very exclusive property, one of my absolute favorite hotels. They actually have the nerve to ask overnight guests to refrain from taking photos outdoors (without actually saying it). In a very discreet way, they prohibit non-staying visitors from meandering in and around the grounds. The entrance to the hotel is heavily guarded, in a fashion that suggests royalty lives there. You will be asked about the purpose of your visit by one of the many guardsman handling the door, inside and out. They often turn people away, depending on what you say and how you are dressed. The reception desk is immediately to your right as you enter. There is no such thing as sneaking in, even with a smile. They know who their guests are because this place is run with impeccable attention to detail. To gain entry, you are better off making reservations for lunch but be prepared to spend $300-$400 for two people. There are no prices on the menu but the cuisine is divine. When you are finished with lunch, someone will most likely escort you to the exit. The staff is watching everyone's moves in the most discreet way. If you are serious about visiting and eating lunch there, I would write the manager and request a lunch reservation and a tour. The worst they can say is no to the tour.

humm...maybe not a fun day trip!

We were there about 12 years ago and had a different experience. We just walked in (it seemed like through the back door ?) and went out by the pool and had lunch out there. I remember it being a bit nicer than the typical 'by the pool' food, and it definitely WAS expensive, but not to the extent had we eaten inside.

I do remember walking among the little shops outside and browsing - I think we actually bought a few fun souvenirs. I think they open onto a small courtyard area ?

sorry, details are a little fuzzy. Must have had wine with lunch!

We were there some years back. There was a "guard" at the gate. We told him we wanted to do some shopping in their stores and he let us in.

We walked the grounds, took photos and eventually left.

While we were there a hellicopter landed and dropped off some people.

<i><font color=#777777>"maybe not a fun day trip"</font></i>

It's absolutely a fun day drip, especially if you do a little smart preparation.


<i><font color=#777777>"it seemed like through the back door"</font></i>

The "back door" of the Cardinal Building is the public entrance. But the doorway is unassuming. The drama of this grandiose building faces the lake, like most Lake Como villas. Considering how large the villa actually is, you don't get a sense of this as you enter the reception foyer.

I've never seen any tourist photos of the reception area. They really do prefer no photography but the further away from reception you are, the easier it is to sneak. Their website offers a beautiful download brochure and page 4 features a photo of the reception entrance. The rather simple door on the right is where you enter. I've never seen less than four men behind the reception desk and all eyes are on you as you enter (maybe that's because I am blonde). Expect to find two men manning the interior side of the door. There's always been at least one doorman on the exterior.

This August, I'll be celebrating fifth birthday there. I have a favorite room in the Queen's Pavilion, aptly named for me. I really do love this place and the way they treat me like a Queen.

Ok, thank you to all. I guess I we go we should wear sunglasses, go through the side/back door and act like we belong there? I am not sure I can pull this one off???

I visited Villa d'Este five summers ago. There were two gentlemen at the entrance who simply smiled and nodded as we walked down the drive. We were greeted at the reception desk and my friend stated we were there to have lunch. After lunch at the Sundeck she told reception she was interested in possibly having her wedding/reception at the hotel and requested a tour. We had to look at a pitch book and listen to some woman prattle on for about 20 minutes, then were granted access to the gardens. I don't recall anyone stating not to take photographs, because I took a ton.

Is there any particular reason that this thread was brought up from the dead, other than to give us a laugh about some of the pretentiousness found within?