Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2026: BMW’s Most Elegant Weekend Returns to Lake Como
Cernobbio / Munich. Some automotive events don’t need an introduction.
The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2026 is one of them.
From May 15–17, 2026, BMW Group Classic once again transforms the shores of Lake Como into a stage where automotive history meets modern design thinking. It’s not just a concours. It’s a curated experience where design, heritage, and prestige blend into one.
A curated selection, not just a car show
Set against the iconic terraces of Villa d’Este, around 50 exceptional automobiles will take part in this year’s competition.
These aren’t just valuable machines — they are carefully selected pieces of automotive history. Each one represents a specific era, philosophy, and design language.
At the center of it all is the ultimate award:
Trofeo BMW Group – Best of Show.
Competition classes: a journey through automotive design
The 2026 edition once again highlights diversity in design — from pre-war opulence to the rise of the supercar era:
Editor’s Choice
- Class A – Automotive Tailoring: The Decade of Opulence (1924–1934)
- Class B – Future Couture: Dressed For Speed (1935–1939)
- Class C – Viva Villa d’Este: Extravagant 1950s Style
- Class D – The Top Goes Down, The Price Goes Up
- Class E – They Earned Their Names: Enzo’s Endurance Legends
- Class F – Every Scratch Tells A Story
- Class G – From Carnaby Street To The Autostrada
- Class H – The Pace Race: The Supercar Comes of Age
Alongside them, concept cars will once again offer a glimpse into the future of automotive design.
The parade that defines elegance
Saturday’s parade at Villa d’Este remains the emotional core of the event.
This is where the cars come alive — moving through the gardens, reflecting off the lake, and revealing details that static displays simply can’t capture.
Additional awards include:
- Coppa d’Oro (public vote)
- Trofeo del Presidente
- Trofeo Il Canto del Motore (best engine sound)
BMW ALPINA enters a new chapter
One of the most anticipated highlights of 2026 is the first public appearance of BMW ALPINA in its new form.
Following its transformation earlier this year, the brand will showcase a new model based on the 7 Series — potentially setting the tone for its future as a luxury-focused manufacturer within BMW Group.
This isn’t just a premiere.
It’s a statement.
BMW Motorrad and future performance
BMW Motorrad will also bring a new concept to Villa d’Este, aiming to redefine performance and design in the premium motorcycle segment.
40 years of BMW M3
A key highlight for enthusiasts: the 40th anniversary of the BMW M3.
At Villa Erba, the “Touring Car Legends” exhibition will showcase racing icons like the E30 M3 alongside their historic rivals.
Former factory drivers —
Johnny Cecotto, Emanuele Pirro, and Roberto Ravaglia —
will also be present, sharing stories from the golden era of touring car racing.
Amici & Automobili and Public Day
Saturday brings Amici & Automobili – Wheels & Weisswürscht, with around 120 cars from collectors and clubs worldwide.
Expect everything from rare classics to modern performance machines — including a unique display of all BMW M3 generations by the lake.
On Sunday, May 17, the event opens to a wider audience with Public Day – Il Festival, combining the concours atmosphere with a more accessible format.
A watch, a trophy, and a collector’s auction
The Best of Show winner will receive a unique timepiece from A. Lange & Söhne — the 1815 Chronograph, crafted in white gold and engraved specifically for the event.
Meanwhile, Broad Arrow Auctions will host a sale of over 70 collector cars, including:
- Bugatti Type 43 Roadster (1929)
- Bugatti Type 37 Grand Prix (1926)
- Ferrari F40 (1990)
- BMW M3 GTS (2011)
Final thoughts
Villa d’Este isn’t just about cars.
It’s about atmosphere, detail, and the kind of elegance that modern automotive events rarely achieve. With BMW at the center, the 2026 edition promises to once again set the tone for what automotive luxury and heritage should feel like.
FAQ
When is Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2026?
May 15–17, 2026.
Where does it take place?
Cernobbio, Lake Como, Italy.
How many cars are displayed?
Around 50 concours vehicles, plus additional exhibitions.
What is the main award?
Trofeo BMW Group – Best of Show.
