Villa Carlotta is a late 17th-century villa and museum on the western shore of Lake Como, in Tremezzo. Its gardens cover about 8 hectares of terraces, fountains, statues and rare trees, and the villa sits above them, facing Bellagio across the water. The rooms hold sculptures and paintings by Canova, Thorvaldsen and Hayez, along with furniture from several owners. Plan at least as much time for the gardens as for the museum, since the paths lead through a bamboo grove, a fern valley and a rock garden up to a high lookout over the lake.
From the Clerici family to Sommariva
The villa was commissioned by Marquis Giorgio Clerici, a Milanese nobleman, in the late 17th century. Its interior and gardens took much of their present form in the 18th century, when fountains, statues and Italian-style gardens were added.
In 1801, the villa was bought by Gian Battista Sommariva, a politician and art collector who had led the governing committee of the Cisalpine Republic, set up by Napoleon in northern Italy. Sommariva added works by Canova, Thorvaldsen and Hayez to the rooms and turned the grounds into a romantic park.
The name and the princess
The villa is named after Princess Charlotte of Prussia. It was a wedding gift from her mother, Princess Marianne of Nassau, and it was the princess's apartments that were kept in good condition for visitors to see.
The rooms still show the furnishings of the families who owned the house, so the interiors read as a sequence of owners rather than a single period.
Inside the museum
The museum has a large collection of sculpture and painting, mostly from the 19th century. Works by Canova, Thorvaldsen, Hayez and Migliara are among the highlights.
Small temporary exhibitions have been shown alongside the main display. A multimedia section is in the basement, and a few modern art pieces are also on show, which makes the museum a good match for visitors who want more than the classical collection.
The gardens
The gardens are the villa's best-known feature. A bamboo grove, a citrus grove, a fern valley and a Zen-style rock garden are among the sections, and tall cedars stand in the woodland areas. Orange trees grow on pergolas, and an English-style woodland garden sits beside the formal Italian garden with box hedges.
A fountain stands at the entrance. Paths are well marked and come in different lengths. A high lookout, fringed by olive trees, gives views over the lake.
Spring is the season for the rhododendrons and azaleas. The collection includes more than 150 varieties, and camellias bloom alongside them.
Planning the visit
The audio guide covers both the gardens and the museum. It has one track for the general garden, one for the large individual trees, and a longer track for the museum. Tickets come with a map outlining 45-minute and 90-minute garden routes, but the grounds can take much longer to explore.
A café and picnic area are on site. The site lists a wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator, restroom and parking, along with tours for visually impaired visitors.
The villa is across the lake from Bellagio and can be reached by motorboat. The Grand Hotel Tremezzo stands next door.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, admission is charged. Buying tickets online in advance is recommended.
How long do you need at Villa Carlotta?
A visit usually takes 1.5 to 3 hours. The ticket map outlines 45-minute and 90-minute garden routes, and the grounds can take longer.
When is the best time to see the flowers?
Late spring is the best time, when the azaleas and rhododendrons are in bloom.
Is Villa Carlotta accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. The site lists a wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator, restroom, parking and seating.
Is there parking?
Yes. The site has a free parking lot and a paid parking lot. Free parking is also available nearby if you arrive early.
