Chris & Christa's
Wedding
Villa Cipressi
Varenna, Lake Como
Friday June 13th, 2025
Ceremony at 4:30 in the afternoon with Guest arrivals expected from 4:00 pm.
Dinner & Dancing to follow
Welcome Event
Castello di Vezio,
Thursday June 12, 2025
Departures from Villa Cipressi. Please gather in the courtyard for transportation to the village of Vezio, starting at 6:20
FOOTWARE: Note this event includes a 10 min walk through a sixth-centuray village with cobblestone pathways, We encourage appropriate comfortable footware.
Perched high above the charming town of Varenna, Castello di Vezio stands at the edge of a village with origins dating back to the 6th century. This historic fortress offers a journey through time, leading you along picturesque cobblestone streets and up a gentle incline to breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
For your comfort and safety, we recommend wearing sturdy, comfortable footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain. As the castle is situated at an elevated position, occasional breezes can make the air cooler, so we suggest bringing a light jacket or sweater to ensure a pleasant experience.
As part of this special visit, we are pleased to feature talented local artists who will be displaying their work. This is a wonderful opportunity to admire and purchase unique pieces inspired by the beauty and heritage of Lake Como.
Farewell Lunch
Saturday June 14th, 2025
Join us for lunch in Bellagio at La Punta
RSVP Closed - €65.00 PER PERSON,
payable in cash to Chris & Christa
La Punta Restaurant Set Menu:
First Course - House "Antipasto"
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Second Course - Tris of pasta
Trofie with pesto
Penne with bacon, cream, tomatoes and parmesan cheese
Gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce
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Third Course - Veal in White Wine Sauce
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White wine, espresso coffee & Mineral water
Transportation provided from Royal Victoria dock at 11:50am sharp.
Love Story Unfolds
Surrounded by the serene beauty of the lake and the majestic mountains, we couldn’t imagine a more perfect place to begin our journey together. We would be overjoyed to have our friends and family join us in this enchanting location to share in our special day. Your presence would mean the world to us as we exchange our vows and create unforgettable memories together.
Villa Cipressi
We are honored to invite you to stay with us at our exclusive wedding hotel, Villa Cipressi in Varenna, Lake Como.
The Villa is comprised of a complex of structures and gardens built between 1400 and 1800.
Directly facing the lake, it provides a breathtaking view of Bellagio and the central part of the lake.
Completely remodeled in 2018, Villa Cipressi offers the comfort, elegance and charm of one of the most beautiful historic Villas on Como Lake.
Book Your Stay
Email Your Reservation Request to
info@hotelvillacipressi.it
Booking Code
"_Ms. Cavolina & Mr. Davanzo - 13th June 2025_"
PLEASE NOTE: THE RESERVATIONS TEAM MAY SEND YOU AN EMAIL REQUESTING FULL PAYMENT IN ADVANCE OR RELEASE OF THE ROOMS. THIS IS A STANDARD EMAIL AND THE HOTEL IS RESERVED ENTIRELY FOR THE WEDDING. YOUR ROOMS WILL NOT BE RELEASED, HOWEVER, WE KINDLY ASK TO FOLLOW THEIR INSTRUCTIONS FOR PRE-PAYMENT.
BREAKFAST INCLUDED
EACH ROOM COMES WITH THE FOLLOWING AMENITIES
Wi-Fi connection
Air-conditioned
Flat screen satellite TV
Telephone
Safe
Wardrobe with hangers
Duvet and pillows
Sheets in refined cotton satin with personalized embroidery
Minibar restocked daily
Kettle for
coffee, tea and chamomile
Bathroom set
Hair dryer, face mirror and slippers
Spa
Enjoy the Spa for one couple at a time, upon booking.
Wellness path reserved for the couple in an exclusive space
The Spa Suite is a wellness area that offers the same experience of a Spa in a few square meters, but thought for
the privacy and relaxation of a couple.
Welcoming and relaxing ambience provided with an audio integrated system pre-arranged for MP3, USB and Bluetooth connection, aiming to make the couple experience even more relaxing.
AVAILABLE FOR ALL HOTEL GUESTS FOR A FEE
THE WELLNESS AREA ON REQUEST - 1 HOUR - MAXIMUM nr. 2 PEOPLE
Travel
Travel to Varenna
Lake Como, Italy
Our wedding will take place in Varenna, located on the Eastern side of Lake Como in the province of Lecco. For convenience, we have provided flight search links for airports closest to Varenna, with a special recommendation for Milan Malpensa or Linate. These airports offer easy access to Milan Centrale Railway station, where you can catch direct trains to Varenna.
If you plan to arrange an airport transfer, we advise booking at least one month ahead. Below are links to recommended taxi transport services.
Varenna offers picturesque views of Lake Como as you approach the charming village. Nestled between the lake and the surrounding mountains, Varenna is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its beauty and tranquility.
Once you arrive, you'll find narrow, cobblestone streets winding through the village, lined with colorful houses and blooming gardens. The waterfront promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering stunning vistas of the lake and the distant Alps. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic Villa Monastero, with its lush gardens and fascinating museum.
For those seeking adventure, there are numerous hiking trails that offer breathtaking panoramas of the area. Whether you're exploring ancient churches, dining at lakeside cafes, or simply soaking in the serene ambiance, Varenna promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return.
Fly into Milan Malpensa (MXP)
From Malpensa, your options for getting to Varenna are:
• 50 min Malpensa Express train ride to Milano Centrale, and then take a 60 min train ride from Milano Centrale station to Varenna-Esino station; from here you’ll call for shuttle to hotel (Villa Cipressi).
• Book a car service direct from the airport to Milano Centrale (45 min). Then take a 60 min train ride from Milano Centrale station to Varenna-Esino station; from here you’ll call for shuttle to hotel (Villa Cipressi).
• 1hr10min-Book a car service direct from the airport to your hotel (most convenient), approx €150-200
Fly to Milan Linate (LIN)
From Linate, your options for getting to Varenna are:
• Taxi or a ~25 min shuttle bus to the Milan Centrale Train Station and then take a 60 min train ride to Varenna-Esino station; from here you’ll call hotel shuttle (Villa Cipressi).
• Book a car service direct from the airport to your hotel (most convenient), approx €125-150 and 1 hr driving time
Fly into Milan Bergamo (BGY)
From Bergamo, your options for getting to Varenna are more lengthy by public transport because this airport is not actually anywhere near Milan, but are as follows:
• Shuttle bus ride to Bergamo station and then take a train to Milan Centrale Station, from Milano Centrale take train to Varenna-Esino (total time can be up to 2hr and 45min); Once you arrive at Varenna-Esino train station call for hotel shuttle (Villa Cipressi).
• 50-60 min shuttle bus ride from BGY airport to Milano Centrale station, then take a 60-minute train ride from Milano Centrale station to Varenna-Esino station; from here you’ll call for hotel shuttle (Villa Cipressi).
• Book a car service direct from the airport to your hotel (most convenient), approx €200 and 1.5 hr journey.
GETTING AROUND LAKE COMO
Varenna, a quaint village situated on the shores of Lake Como, is located in the central region of the lake and serves as the location for Villa Cipressi, the wedding venue. To attend the wedding celebrations and participate in planned activities, all guests are kindly requested to stay at Villa Cipressi with Chris & Christa, who have exclusively reserved the hotel-venue. Please note that accommodations in other areas of the lake will necessitate private boat or ground transportation to join the wedding festivities.
Malpensa Express
If you choose to arrive to Milan Malpensa airport (T1 or T2), there is an express train service to the Milano Centrale train station, where you can reach Milano as your destination or take the train to Varenna. This journey is approx 1 hr and €13. You can also use this train for some other stops in Milano in case you have booked a hotel stay.
Taxi Service
Traveling by taxi can be the fastest but most expensive way to get around. Your hotel concierge can arrange taxi service, or sometimes a few may be queued outside of train stations.
We have a list of taxi companies for each village around L:ake Como. Please note taxis are very hard to come by and should be arranged in advance.
Rental Cars & Boats
Renting a car or boat for the day offers great flexibility if you prefer not to adhere to a public transit schedule. However, parking in Varenna is quite limited, with only a parkade opposite Villa Cipressi available. Unfortunately, there is no on-site parking for the hotels, and the parkade gets fully booked during peak seasons. While some hotels provide complimentary parking, it's worth noting that the narrow and winding roads can make driving challenging. If opting for a boat rental, remember to reserve docking spaces at restaurants for exploring. Planning ahead allows for a hassle-free experience using public transportation around the lake.
Public Ferries
Public boat ferries are the most popular and convenient way to get to most of the towns along the shores of Lake Como.
Use the Navigazione Laghi to search timetables online or download their app to find the best routes and timing.
Train Travel
Varenna is easily accessible as it's connected by train, ferry and a main highway.
The Trenord website and app or Omio is a great tool for planning trips via train.
Questions & Answers
WILL THE CEREMONY BE OUTSIDE?
Yes! Please bring a light jacket just in case there is weather on the day
WHAT IS THE WEDDING DRESS CODE?
Formal, Black Tie Optional. For women, we recommend a formal gown, floor length or tea length dress. For men, we recommend a tuxedo or a suit and tie. A guest attire visual guide for inspiration will be provided closer to the wedding date.
CAN WE STAY SOMEWHERE OTHER THAN VILLA CIPRESSI?
We strongly advise you to take advantage of the amazing location as a unique experience, so the whole wedding party can enjoy the exclusive use of Villa Cipressi.
HOW DO I BOOK MY ROOM AT VILLA CIPRESSI?
Email the events team at info@hotelvillacipressi.it with the style fo room you want to book, including your name, address and check-in/check-out dates in case you would like to extend your stay.
IS THE WEDDING CHILD FRIENDLY?
Our wedding will be an adults-only event to provide a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere for all our guests. We thank you for your understanding and look forward to celebrating with you.
Things to Do
Glitzy, glamorous, and effortlessly easy-going, Lake Como is at the center piece of the Italian ‘lake district’, that encompasses the lakes of Maggiore, Lugano, Como, Iseo, and Garda. Located at the foot of the Alps, Lake Como provides one of the most picturesque sceneries in the world. Its characteristic shape, reminiscent of an inverted Y, results from the melting of glaciers combined with the erosive action of the ancient Adda river.
The entire perimeter of Lake Como is studded with charming villages and towns. The most popular destinations are definitely Bellagio, Varenna, Mennagio and the city that gives its name to the lake, Como. There is so much to explore!
Use the links here to help navigate your way to Bellagio and other areas in Northern Italy
Varenna
See the Church of S. Giorgio: 14th century, roman gothic style, and hosts many paintings from the late 15th and 16th century
Visit Riva Grande, Varenna’s lakefront filled with colorful houses, cafes, restaurants, local artisan shops, and ice cream parlors
Tour the botanical garden of Villa Cipressi, a real gem that tells the biodiversity of each area of the country; a mix of contemporary architecture and ancient gardens
See the Castello di Vezio, an ancient medieval fortress overlooking Varenna
Bellagio
Tour Villa Serbelloni, 50 acre park with unique views of Bellagio and Lake Como
Visit the Villa Melzi Gardens, home to a large number of exotic trees, camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas, a hidden cave, and Japanese-style pond
See the Basilica di San Giacomo, a parish church of San Giacomo dating back to the 12th century
Como City Center
See the Como Cathedral, “Duomo di Como” recognized as one of the most important buildings of northern Italy
Visit the Como Silk Museum, “Museo della Seta di Como”
Take a Como-Brunate cable car ride for incredible views!
See the “balcony in the Alps,” panoramic views of the entire western Alps, the Po Valley, and the Apennines
Visit the Voltiano Lighthouse
Tremezzina
Tremezzina is made of a collection of small villages in one strip of the mid-section, Western side of the lake. Once arriving in Tremezzina, you can travel along the Villages by Bus, visiting the historical villa’s.
Tour Historic villas like Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello with advance booking of tickets online.
Hike the Greenway del Lago, a 3-6 mile hike that will guide you through the entire area of Tremezzina
Walk through Parco Olivelli and stop for a drink at Acqua Cheta Lounge Bar for lake view
Enjoy a luxury Spritz cocktail at the T-Bar in front of Grand Hotel Tremezzo, overlooking the lake.
Menaggio
Walk the Town Center for streets and streets of small boutiques and shops of craftsmen
Pop over to “Old Town” and walk along what remains of the Via Castellino da Castello perimeter walls
See Villa Mylius Vigoni, built in the first half of the 19th century and surrounded by a large English garden
Play a round of golf at the Menaggio-Cadenabbia Golf Club, the 2nd oldest golf club in Italy
Rent pedal boats, canoes, or row boats near Lerai public beach
Visit the newly refurbished Lido Victoria for a day of sun, cocktails and a dip in the lake.
