Each spring, the shores of Lake Como host one of the most prestigious automotive gatherings in the world. In fact, in 2026, the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este returns from 15 to 17 May, once again bringing together elegance, heritage, and cutting-edge design in one exceptional setting.

Organised by BMW Group Classic in partnership with the iconic Villa d’Este, the event promises a carefully curated display of around 50 remarkable cars. Moreover, each one reflects the very best of its era.

A World-Class Concours With Enduring Appeal

The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, indeed, remains a benchmark for automotive excellence. Besides, it seamlessly combines history, design, and craftsmanship, while also offering a relaxed yet exclusive atmosphere.

Over three days, collectors, manufacturers, and enthusiasts gather to celebrate vehicles that shaped motoring culture. Importantly, the event continues to evolve while respecting its rich heritage.

At its core, meanwhile, lies the coveted Trofeo BMW Group – Best of Show. This top honour, in turn, is awarded by a distinguished jury to the finest car in the competition.

Competition Classes: A Journey Through Automotive History

The 2026 edition features a diverse set of classes. Each one highlights a distinct era or theme in automotive design.

Key Classes Include:

Automotive Tailoring: The Decade of Opulence (1924-1934)
A showcase of handcrafted luxury and early coachbuilding excellence.

Future Couture: Dressed for Speed (1935-1939)
Streamlined designs shaped by performance and innovation.

Viva Villa d’Este: Extravagant 1950s Style
Bold lines, chrome details, and post-war optimism.

“The Top Goes Down, The Price Goes Up”: Selling Sunshine
Open-top motoring at its most desirable.

They Earned Their Names: Enzo’s Endurance Legends
Celebrating icons linked to Enzo Ferrari and endurance racing success.

Every Scratch Tells a Story: Ageing Gracefully Without Restoration
Authenticity takes centre stage, with unrestored survivors.

From Carnaby Street to the Autostrada: The Swinging GT Driver
A nod to style-led grand tourers of the 1960s.

The Pace Race: The Supercar Comes of Age
Early supercars that redefined speed and desirability.

In addition, concept cars from leading manufacturers will compete in their own category. These models offer a glimpse into the future of automotive design.

The Iconic Parade and Prestigious Awards

Saturday remains the highlight of the weekend. On the terrace of Villa d’Este, each car is presented in front of judges and guests.

Alongside the Best of Show award, several honours add further excitement:

Coppa d’Oro
Voted for by the public, this award reflects popular opinion.

Trofeo del Presidente
Presented by Helmut Käs, recognising a standout entry.

Trofeo Il Canto del Motore
Awarded for the best engine sound, presented by Jonas Kaufmann.

Together, these awards celebrate not only design but also emotion and engineering character.

BMW ALPINA Steps Into the Spotlight

A major highlight for 2026 is the public debut of BMW ALPINA under its new identity.

Following its repositioning earlier in the year, ALPINA will showcase its refined approach to performance and exclusivity. The Villa d’Este setting offers the perfect stage for this next chapter.

BMW Motorrad Reveals a Vision for the Future

Alongside four-wheeled icons, BMW Motorrad will present a new vision vehicle.

While details remain under wraps, expectations are high. These concept machines often blend advanced engineering with striking design, offering a preview of future mobility.

Celebrating 40 Years of the BMW M3

The 2026 event also marks a major milestone: 40 years of the BMW M3.

Special Exhibition: Touring Car Legends

Hosted at Villa Erba, this exhibition will feature:

Historic racing versions of the BMW M3 (E30)

Rival touring cars from the same era

Interactive displays and fan engagement sessions

Notably, racing drivers such as Johnny Cecotto, Emanuele Pirro, and Roberto Ravaglia will attend. They will share stories and insights from their careers as BMW works drivers.

Public Day: Opening the Gates to Enthusiasts

On Sunday, the Public Day – Il Festival invites a wider audience to experience the event.

Visitors can enjoy:

The full concours parade

Interactive displays and exhibitions

Family-friendly entertainment

This day ensures the event remains accessible while maintaining its premium feel.

Amici & Automobili: A Diverse Automotive Gathering

Running alongside the main concours, Amici & Automobili – Wheels & Weisswürscht brings together car clubs and private owners.

Around 120 vehicles will be displayed at Villa Erba. The mix spans decades, brands, and styles.

Highlights Include:

A wide variety of classic and modern cars

Community-driven displays

A dedicated BMW M3 area celebrating all generations

This section adds energy and variety to the weekend.

A Collector Car Auction Worth Watching

The official auction partner, Broad Arrow Auctions, returns for 2026.

Over 70 collector cars will go under the hammer across 16 and 17 May.

Early Standout Lots:

Bugatti Type 43 Roadster

Bugatti Type 37 Grand Prix

Ferrari F40

BMW M3 GTS

Preview days begin on Friday, giving collectors time to inspect each lot.

A Timepiece Fit for the Winner

The Best of Show winner will receive a unique timepiece from A. Lange & Söhne.

This one-off 1815 Chronograph features:

18-carat white gold case

Solid red gold dial

Hand-engraved Concorso crest

The award reflects the event’s attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship.

Trusted Partners Behind the Event

The success of the Concorso relies on strong partnerships. Key supporters include:

A. Lange & Söhne

Broad Arrow Auctions

Vranken Pommery Monopole

Schedoni Modena

Their involvement helps maintain the event’s high standards.

Why Villa d’Este Still Leads the Field

Several factors keep this concours at the top:

Location: Lake Como offers unmatched scenery

Curation: Only the finest cars are selected

Heritage: Decades of history and prestige

Balance: Classic cars, modern concepts, and public access

As a result, it continues to attract global attention year after year.

Final Thoughts: What Makes 2026 Unmissable?

The 2026 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este blends heritage, design, and innovation with effortless style. It offers rare access to some of the world’s most important cars, set against one of Europe’s most beautiful backdrops.

Moreover, with major anniversaries, new brand debuts, and a strong auction line-up, this year’s edition feels particularly significant.

So, which class would you head straight to first?
Would you choose a concours winner based on design, history, or rarity?
And does the enduring appeal of events like this lie in nostalgia, or in their ability to evolve?

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