For nearly a century, the shores of Lake Como in Italy have hosted one of the automotive world’s most prestigious gatherings. Held against the manicured gardens and lakefront terraces of Villa d’Este, the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este remains among the most influential concours events in the world — equal parts automotive exhibition, social season and celebration of design.
First established in 1929 during the golden era of European coachbuilding, the event was originally conceived as a showcase for the continent’s most elegant automobiles and the elite clientele who commissioned them. Interrupted during World War II and later revived decades afterward, the modern concours has evolved into a centerpiece of the global collector calendar under the stewardship of BMW Group, which has co-organized the event since 1999.
Unlike many concours events focused primarily on judging and restoration standards, Villa d’Este has always placed equal emphasis on atmosphere and aesthetics. Historic villas, terraced gardens and the dramatic scenery of Lake Como create a setting where architecture, fashion and hospitality become inseparable from the automobiles themselves.
The cars remain extraordinary.
Each year, the concours gathers an exceptionally curated field of historically significant automobiles ranging from pre-war coachbuilt masterpieces to endurance racing legends, concept studies and rare one-off commissions. Manufacturers frequently use the occasion to debut design concepts or heritage-focused projects before an audience uniquely attuned to craftsmanship and provenance.
Yet Villa d’Este remains notably intimate compared with larger automotive events elsewhere in the world. The lawns themselves are relatively compact, allowing visitors to experience the cars at close range while moving naturally between terraces, gardens and lakeside pathways. The atmosphere feels less like a traditional exhibition and more like an elegant garden party centered around automotive design.
That sense of intimacy extends beyond the concours grounds themselves.
Throughout the weekend, the surrounding towns of Cernobbio, Bellagio and Menaggio become part of the experience as collectors, enthusiasts and manufacturers circulate between villas, hotels and private gatherings around the lake. Ferries carrying classic automobiles across the water have become nearly as iconic as the concours lawn itself.
Increasingly, Villa d’Este also serves as the anchor for a much broader “Como Week” ecosystem. While the concours retains its traditional elegance and formal structure, the surrounding region now hosts numerous satellite gatherings, brand activations and cultural events that together transform Lake Como into one of the automotive world’s most influential seasonal destinations.
Still, the concours itself remains the centerpiece.
At a time when automotive culture increasingly moves at the speed of social media, Villa d’Este continues to offer something slower and more deliberate — a celebration of craftsmanship, preservation and beauty in one of Europe’s most extraordinary settings.
KEY INFORMATION
Event:
Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este
Location:
Villa d’Este
Region:
Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy
Founded:
1929
Typical Timing:
Late May annually
Nearest Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport
- Milan Linate Airport
Travel Notes:
Public access varies by day and ticket type. Accommodations throughout Lake Como book well in advance during concours weekend, particularly in Cernobbio and Bellagio. Ferry transportation between lake towns is highly recommended.
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