Few events hold as much prestige and allure as the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Como in Italy, this annual gathering is a celebration of automotive heritage, design, and innovation.

As we delve into the 2024 edition of this illustrious event, we'll reflect on the previous year's showcase and explore what makes the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este a timeless spectacle.

The 2023 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este was a feast for the senses, featuring a stunning array of vintage and contemporary automobiles. From classic marques like Ferrari and Bugatti to avant-garde designs from emerging manufacturers, the event captured the essence of automotive excellence.

One of the highlights of the 2023 edition was the theme "Hypercars: Past, Present, and Future," which celebrated the evolution of high-performance automobiles. Attendees were treated to a showcase of iconic hypercars from decades past, alongside cutting-edge prototypes that offered a glimpse into the future of automotive engineering.

Among the standout entries was the reimagined Lamborghini Countach, a modern interpretation of the legendary supercar that captivated enthusiasts with its blend of retro styling and state-of-the-art technology. The 2023 event also featured a tribute to the pioneering work of automotive design icon Marcello Gandini, whose visionary creations continue to inspire designers to this day.

The 2023 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este underscored the timeless appeal of automotive craftsmanship and innovation, setting the stage for yet another unforgettable gathering in 2024.

As anticipation builds for the 2024 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, automotive enthusiasts from around the world are eager to witness the latest chapter. Building upon the success of the previous year, organisers have curated a lineup that promises to dazzle attendees with its blend of tradition and innovation.

This year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este includes the following competition classes, in which around 50 of the most spectacular vehicles of their eras will be presented to the high-calibre Jury:

CLASS A - THE DAWN OF THE PERFORMANCE AGE
CLASS B - SHAPED BY THE WIND: THE EVOLUTION OF AERODYNAMICS
CLASS C - “THE BEST CAR IN THE WORLD” FOR 120 YEARS: ROLLS-ROYCE CELEBRATES AN HISTORIC BIRTHDAY
CLASS D - “FASTER!” THE ARMS RACE ON THE ROAD
CLASS E - THE BEST OF ITALIAN GRACE AND PACE: MASERATI AT 110
CLASS F - GENTLEMAN DRIVERS: STYLE FOR THE FORTUNATE FEW
CLASS G - TIME CAPSULES: CARS THAT THE OUTSIDE WORLD FORGOT
CLASS H - THE NEED FOR SPEED: SUPERCAR STARS OF THE VIDEO GENERATION

Among the highlights of the 2024 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is the unveiling of several highly anticipated concept cars, each pushing the boundaries of design and engineering. From electric supercars to autonomous vehicles, these prototypes offer a glimpse into the future of mobility and transportation.

In addition to the main showcase, the 2024 event will feature a series of panel discussions and presentations by industry experts, exploring topics ranging from sustainable design to the role of technology in shaping the future of transportation. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with thought leaders and visionaries, gaining insights into the evolving landscape of the automotive industry.

FRIDAY 24TH 24, 2024

10:00 – 16:30

Check-in at Villa d’Este and Technical Check-in for Historic Cars *

15:30 – 16:15

Aperitivo by A. Lange & Söhne, Lobby, Villa d’Este *

16:30

Entrants’ Briefing, Sala Regina, Villa d’Este *

18:45

BMW Group Cocktail incl. Presentation of the 20th BMW Art Car, in the Mosaic Garden, Villa d’Este *

Followed by

Inaugural Dinner, Villa d’Este *

21:30

Flying Dessert incl. BMW World Premiere, Platano, Villa d’Este *

22:00 – 01:00

BMW Party, Pool Area, Villa d’Este *

SATURDAY 25TH MAY 2024

From 09:30

Exhibition of the cars, on the grounds of the Villa d’Este
Inspection of the cars by the Jury
Public Referendum for the “Coppa d’Oro Villa d’Este” for Historic Cars and the “Concorso d’Eleganza Design Award” for Concept Cars & Prototypes (voting in the event app)

During the day

Exhibition Rolls-Royce and the BMW Art Car, in the Mosaic Garden, Villa d’Este

11:30 – 14:00

Buffet Lunch, Villa d’Este

From 14:00

Parade on the terrace of Villa d’Este in front of the Jury and the public
Award ceremonies: “Coppa d’Oro Villa d’Este” and special awards for Historic Cars

From 19:00

Shuttle Service(boat and car) from Villa d’Este to Villa Erba *

19:30 – 20:00

Welcome & Champagne Reception, Villa Visconti, on the grounds of the Villa Erba *

From 20:00

Italian Dinner, Villa Visconti, on the grounds of the Villa Erba *

Followed by

Festival of Lights Party Night, Villa Visconti, on the grounds of the Villa Erba *

From 22:30

Return shuttles to Villa d’Este (cars only) *

10:00 – 15:00

AMICI & AUTOMOBILI – WHEELS & WEISSWÜRSCHT,
Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Public Day Club and Community Meeting, on the grounds of the Villa Erba

SUNDAY 26TH MAY 2024

07:30 – 08:45

Transfer of all historic and Concept Cars to Villa Erba

07:30 – 18:00

Shuttle Service by car between Villa d’Este and Villa Erba *

09:00 – 18:00

Shuttle Service by boat between Villa d’Este and Villa Erba *

09:30 – 18:00

Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Public Day – Il Festival, on the grounds of the Villa Erba
Entertainment Programme incl. Music, Art and Culture

During the day:

Motorsport Icons Exhibition,Rotunda in the Congress Center, Villa Erba

From 09:30

Exhibition of the cars, on the grounds of the Villa Erba
Inspection of the cars by the Jury
Public Referendum for the “Concorso d’Eleganza Design Award” for Concept Cars & Prototypes (voting via the event app), Young People’s Referendum for Trofeo BMW Group Ragazzi (voting in the Kids Area)

11:30 – 14:00

Buffet Lunch, Villa Visconti, on the grounds of the Villa Erba

14:00 – 17:30

Parade of Historic Cars in front of the Jury and the public
Award ceremonies: Class Winners and “Prix d’Honneur” for Historic Cars, the “Concorso d’Eleganza Design Award” for Concept Cars & prototypes; Trofeo BMW Group Ragazzi and Trofeo dei Presidenti

From 19:15

Welcome Cocktail & Arrival of the 8 Class Winners, Villa d’Este *

20:00 – 22:15

Farewell Gala Dinner (Black Tie),Villa d’Este *

From 22:30

Award Ceremonyfor the “BMW Group Trophy – Best of Show” (1st and 2nd Prize) *

Followed by

Grand Finale & Arrivederci Party, Villa d’Este *

It's clear that while each event has its own unique themes and highlights, they share a common commitment to celebrating automotive excellence and innovation.

The 2023 edition paid homage to the rich heritage of hypercars, showcasing iconic models from the past while offering a glimpse into the future of automotive performance. In contrast, the 2024 event takes a more expansive approach, exploring the artistic dimensions of automotive design and highlighting the symbiotic relationship between art and technology.

While the themes may differ, both editions of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este share a commitment to showcasing the finest examples of automotive craftsmanship and innovation. Whether through the preservation of classic automobiles or the exploration of cutting-edge concepts, the event serves as a testament to the enduring allure of the automobile as a cultural icon.