The shores of Lake Como are preparing for one of the most anticipated openings in European hospitality. In 2026, The Ritz-Carlton will debut its first Italian property in Bellagio, bringing one of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands to a destination already synonymous with elegance, heritage and refined leisure.

The project involves the complete transformation of the historic Hotel Grande Bretagne, a landmark overlooking the water just outside Bellagio’s village center. Marriott International, in partnership with Grimit S.r.l., is overseeing an extensive redevelopment that will preserve the property’s architectural character while elevating it to the standards associated with The Ritz-Carlton name.

A New Landmark for Lake Como

When completed, the resort will offer 59 rooms and 46 suites, including two signature suites designed to highlight the lake’s remarkable scenery. Interiors will blend contemporary Italian design with classic accents, creating an atmosphere of understated sophistication.

The property will feature a spa with an indoor pool, relaxation areas and thermal experiences; several dining venues celebrating Italian cuisine; and a selection of intimate bars and lounges. Outdoor spaces will be equally central to the guest experience: the estate spans approximately 16,500 m² of gardens, footpaths and panoramic terraces. A private dock will allow guests to arrive by boat—an iconic Como tradition that the new Ritz-Carlton fully embraces.

The Restoration: Reimagining a Historic Property

One of the defining elements of this project is that it is not a new-build development, but the restoration and complete reimagining of a historic hotel with deep roots in Lake Como’s hospitality heritage. The former Hotel Grande Bretagne, an elegant 19th-century structure with neoclassical influences, has long been part of Bellagio’s architectural landscape. Its façade, proportions and relationship with the waterfront reflect the region’s timeless identity, shaped by aristocratic tourism, Grand Tour culture and the historic villas surrounding the lake.

The transformation led by Marriott and Grimit S.r.l. aims to revive this cultural patrimony rather than replace it. While interiors and guest facilities are being entirely redesigned to meet modern expectations of luxury, the original building structure and its noble silhouette will remain integral to the final result. This approach underscores a broader trend in Italian hospitality: revitalising heritage properties with contemporary design, technical innovation and elevated service standards, while maintaining their historical essence.

Preserving a building with such legacy is particularly meaningful in Bellagio, a town known for its refined architecture, elegant promenades and 19th-century villas. The project reflects a commitment to sustainable restoration—one that respects its past while preparing it for the next century of international tourism.

Bellagio’s New Era

The choice of Bellagio is significant. Often called “the pearl of the lake,” the town has long attracted international travelers for its villas, botanical gardens and sweeping views over the two branches of Lake Como. With The Ritz-Carlton’s arrival, Bellagio enters a new phase, one in which heritage and contemporary luxury coexist seamlessly.

The resort will sit within a short walk of Villa Melzi and Parco Villa Serbelloni, two of the lake’s most celebrated historic estates. Its location places it at the heart of a region that blends natural beauty, cultural prestige and discreet exclusivity.

A Broader Shift in Italian Hospitality

The opening of The Ritz-Carlton Bellagio is part of a broader momentum in Italy’s high-end hospitality sector. Recent years have seen major international brands expand their presence across the country—from Rome and Milan to Tuscany, Sardinia and the Adriatic coastline. Yet Lake Como remains distinct: a destination where luxury feels organic, shaped by landscape and legacy rather than trends.

This new property reinforces Como’s position as one of Europe’s leading luxury destinations, attracting travelers from the United States, Germany, Switzerland and the United Kingdom—markets where the Ritz-Carlton name carries particular resonance.

Looking Ahead to 2026

While the hotel is still under development, anticipation is growing among travelers, hospitality experts and the region’s tourism industry. The combination of Ritz-Carlton service, Bellagio’s unique setting and the strong revival of luxury travel in Northern Italy suggests that this opening will become one of the defining hospitality moments of 2026.

As progress continues, TheLuxuryGlobe.com will follow each phase of the project and provide updates on design, guest experiences and opening timelines.