Villa Carlotta Museum: A Treasure Trove of Art and Nature in Lake Como [Review]

Have you ever dreamed of visiting a magnificent villa surrounded by a lush botanical garden and overlooking a sparkling lake? If so, then you should definitely add the Villa Carlotta Museum to your bucket list. This museum is located in the charming town of Tremezzo, on the shores of Lake Como, and houses a stunning collection of artworks, as well as a breathtaking garden that changes with the seasons.

What was the cost?

The cost was reasonable for the value. The entrance fee was 12 euros per person, which included access to the villa, the museum, and the garden. The ticket also gave us a discount on the ferry ride to Bellagio, another beautiful town on the lake. We felt that the price was worth it for the experience.

What are 3 reasons to visit?

Here are the top 3 reasons to visit the Villa Carlotta Museum:

1. The artworks. The museum showcases a variety of artworks, from sculptures, paintings, and frescoes, to furniture, tapestries, and ceramics. Some of the highlights include the famous sculptures by Antonio Canova and Bertel Thorvaldsen, such as Cupid and Psyche, Venus and Mars, and Palamedes; the romantic paintings by Francesco Hayez, such as The Kiss and The Last Moments of Napoleon; and the frescoed rooms by Giuseppe Bertini, such as the Hall of the Muses and the Hall of the Battles.
2. The garden. The garden is a wonderland of plants and flowers, covering an area of 8 hectares. The garden features a variety of styles, from Italian, English, and French, to Japanese and tropical. Some of the highlights include the azalea and rhododendron valley, which blooms in spring with a riot of colors; the bamboo garden, which creates a zen atmosphere; and the rock garden, which showcases a collection of succulents.
3. The view. The view is spectacular from every angle. The villa overlooks the Lake Como, which is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The lake is surrounded by majestic mountains, which create a dramatic backdrop. The view is especially magical at sunset, when the sky and the water turn into a palette of colors.

Is it worth visiting?

Yes, it is. We had a memorable experience at the Villa Carlotta Museum, and we would definitely go back. The museum offers a unique and enjoyable way to explore art and nature, as well as a whimsical and creative atmosphere. The museum is suitable for all ages and interests, and there is always something new to discover.

When’s the best time of day to go?

The best time of day to go is late afternoon. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. from March to November, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from December to February. The late afternoon is the least crowded and the most scenic time to visit, as you can avoid the tourist groups and enjoy the golden hour. You can also catch the last ferry to Bellagio, which leaves at 6:30 p.m. from the nearby pier.