LA DOLCE VITA AWAITS
Why couples choose to get married in Italy
Our couples' reasons to get married in Italy are as unique as their love stories. And yet, there is always something timelessly romantic about this place that inspires our couples from all over the world to plan their Italian destination wedding.
THE EXPERIENCE
Beauty & culinary delights
A destination wedding in Italy is an experience that goes beyond the wedding day. You can feel a deep appreciation for the beautiful things in life in every aspect of Italian culture — from the art to the food.
THE VENUES
Exceptional value
Few wedding destinations offer as many world-famous places to get married as Italy does. And while certainly not cheap, the value for money you can expect for your wedding in Italy, is exceptional.
THE PRACTICALITIES
Legal weddings are easy
As a foreigner, you can get legally married in Italy and have your marriage be recognized back home. While the paperwork can seem daunting from abroad, with local support it becomes a breeze.
TAILORED TO YOUR VISION & BUDGET
Say 'I do' in Italy with our customizable all-inclusive packages
Choosing the location of your Italian destination wedding
From Lake Como's shores, over Tuscany's hills, into Venice's palaces — let us show you around Italy's most beloved places to get married and introduce you to a few quieter corners we love.
Amalfi Coast
Colorful costiera
A cascade of colorful small towns on the hills above the sea — the Amalfi Coast has rightfully gained attention as one of the prettiest places to get married in Italy. Get married on quiet terraces above all the bustle.
Lake Como & Lake Garda
Elegant lake shores
Elegant villas dot the shores of Italy's most prominent lakes. Lake Como, situated just at the foot of the Italian Alps, reflects the scene of mountains and glistening shore-side towns in its deep blue waters.
Rome, Florence, and Venice
Cities of romance
Cities that live their history to this day, displayed in the architecture, art, and culture. The grand Rome, the floating Venice, or artistic Florence offer a beautiful variety of wedding venues to get married.
Sicily & Sardinia
Mediterranean Islands
Sicily is an island in the south amidst olive groves, with distinct culture and an unmistakable atmosphere. Sardinia, further north, awaits with white beaches and untouched natural spots for your Italian wedding.
Tuscany & Umbria
Italy's green heart
Rolling hills and cypress-tree lined vineyards are the very picture of Tuscany. Its quieter neighbor Umbria, the green heart of Italy, offers lush landscapes and warm hospitality away from the crowds.
REAL WEDDINGS
A few of our Italian love stories
We are fortunate to have helped over 600 couples plan their destination wedding in Europe. Here is a glimpse of some of our Italian weddings and elopements.
Eleonora and her team made everything effortless
Hayley & Joe
GOT A DATE?
When to get married in Italy
The seasons in Italy have great influence on how you will experience this destination. Sun-drenched summer in the south or white winters in the north — choose the season that feels just right to you to plan your wedding in Italy.
LATE MARCH – MAY
Spring
With temperatures warming and the coastal towns slowly awaking from the winter calm, spring is our favorite time to get married in Italy. The balmy weather makes outdoor ceremonies possible, and the early season means you have a good chance at experiencing Italy without the summer crowds.
Best for:
- gentle temperatures
- smaller crowds
- weddings with blooming gardens
JUNE – EARLY SEPTEMBER
Summer
Summer begins in full swing in June. While some locals travel to the North, towards the Tuscan countryside, to escape the heat of the cities, summer crowds flock to the beaches. Restaurant terraces are buzzing, and music can be heard on each street. Getting married in summer lets you experience Italy at its sweetest and liveliest.
Best for:
- taking full advantage of the beaches
- outdoor dinners in the evenings
- exploring the cooler north of Italy
LATE SEPTEMBER – NOVEMBER
Autumn
A calm atmosphere sets in after the heat of the summer months disperses. Weather often remains balmy even into October, allowing for outdoor ceremonies to take place without the need for shade. Combined with better rates for venues, and the departed crowds, autumn makes for an excellent time to get married in Italy.
Best for:
- outdoor dinner settings
- wine tastings & culinary experiences
- calm cities
NOVEMBER – FEBRUARY
Winter
Winter in Italy varies greatly depending on your region. The south, and especially its islands remain mild and pleasant with only a light jacket needed to keep away the chill of the evenings. Going further north, temperatures begin to drop. Thick fog in the valleys, and true white winter sets in at the latest when you reach the Alps and Dolomites.
Best for:
- adventure elopements in the north
- balmy celebrations in the south
- popular spots that feel like you have them all to yourselves
Meet Eleonora, your local planner in Italy
Born and bred in Italy, Eleonora taps into her local network to introduce you to the places and people that bring la dolce vita vibes to your day. She will be your dedicated wedding planner every step of the way to your Italian wedding.
I couldn't have felt more taken care of with Eleonora's choices.
Callie & Aaron
Wedding ceremony types in Italy
Your choice of wedding ceremony type will determine your choice of venue, the structure of your ceremony, and even the wording of your vows — let us advise on the best fit for your Italian wedding.
Civil
A civil ceremony is legally-binding. It is performed in Italian (we can arrange a translator for you!) in a licensed venue, before witnesses by the local mayor or their representative.
Religious
A Catholic wedding is the only legally-binding religious ceremony in Italy. Christian weddings are the most common, but other religions are welcome. We will help you navigate the requirements of your faith.
Symbolic
A symbolic ceremony will give you full freedom of choice to shape your wedding as you desire: from choice of your venue down to the wording of your vows. Most of our couples choose this type of ceremony.
Requirements for legal weddings in Italy
A legal wedding in Italy is possible even if you do not have Italian citizenship or residency. While the process can seem daunting from abroad, your planner will guide you through it step by easy step.
Licensed venues only
A civil ceremony in Italy can take place in the local town hall and be officiated by the local mayor or their representative. But some wedding venues also have a legal license to hold legal ceremonies directly on their grounds.
Required documents
Beyond the usual documents like passports and birth certificates, Italy requires the Nulla Osta, a certificate of no impediment to marriage. All documents must be officially translated into Italian.
Timeline for legal weddings
We recommend starting the process 9 to 12 months before your wedding — that leaves comfortable room for the paperwork and your venue choice.
Legality back home
You will receive a bilingual document that proves your marriage and its validity. In most cases, your marriage will be recognized in your home country. Our couples from the USA and UK do not experience difficulties with this, but it's always best to check how your home country handles international weddings.
APPROVED FOR LEGAL CEREMONIES
Some of our venues licensed for legal ceremonies
Usually, a legal ceremony in Italy takes place at the local town hall. But a few select venues hold the proper license to become venues for legal weddings in Italy.
Royal villa surrounded by fragrant gardens along Lake Como
Picturesque ivy-covered villa at the foot of the Apuan Alps
Nature elopement spot surrounded by vineyards in Florence
Say 'Yes' in this boutique hotel & vineyard near Cortona
Elegant pool villa with endless vineyard views in Arezzo
UNMISTAKABLY YOURS
Elopement, intimate wedding, or vow renewal?
Eloping to Italy with just the two of you or planning an intimate celebration with your loved ones to share the day — the type of wedding you choose for your Italian adventure will have influence over how your day flows.
JUST FOR TWO
Elopement
An elopement in Italy is intimacy at its best — traditionally just you two, today often with a few guests along. Simple doesn't mean plain: your day can be as elaborate as you like.
THE CLOSEST LOVED ONES
Microwedding
Up to around 60 guests, though the number matters less than the feeling. An intimate wedding keeps the focus on celebrating with the people you love most.
RENEWED LOVE
Vow Renewal
Already married? Recommit your promises under the Italian sun — just the two of you, or with everyone who's shared the journey with you.
Italy vs. other wedding destinations
Still deciding where to say 'I do'? Here's how a destination wedding in Italy stacks up against our other sunny European destinations.
Spain
Spain brings sun-soaked afternoons and celebrations that run late into the night, usually at a slightly friendlier price point than Italy. Both are warm and Mediterranean. But where Spain leans loud, vibrant, and joyfully informal, an Italian wedding leans elegant and unhurried — long dinners, lakeside villas, and a deep love of food and art. Choose Spain for high-energy fun; choose Italy for timeless style.
Portugal
Portugal is one of Europe's best-value wedding destinations, with soulful, easy-going warmth and a coastline that welcomes everyone. Italy offers a wider spread of iconic settings — the lakes, Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast — and a more established industry with deeper venue and vendor choice. Pick Portugal for honest charm and affordability. Pick Italy for variety, world-famous scenery, and that unmistakable sense of occasion.
A single day or a full wedding week?
Over the years, we have seen more and more of our couples opt for a multi-day wedding in Italy — and we love to help them plan it! Be it a single-day or a celebration that lasts a week, we cannot wait to help you bring your vision to life.
SHORT & SWEET
Ceremony only
For elopements with just two or with a handful of guests, our couples often opt for a half day. A heartfelt ceremony, a photoshoot to capture the day, and a dinner to celebrate.
A DAY OF LOVE
Classic 1-day wedding
A full day to celebrate your Italian wedding with all the added elements like a drinks reception, plenty of time to capture photos, first dance, and a party into the night.
EXTENDED CELEBRATION
2-day wedding
Create room around your wedding day with space for coming together the night before at a welcome dinner, or sharing a post-wedding brunch the morning after.
LASTING ADVENTURE
3-day wedding or more
Extend the love by making your destination wedding an adventure: local experiences like tours and tastings, lazy afternoons at the pool, private dining events, and more.
Eleonora made the entire process seamless, stress-free, and truly magical.
Michael & Maddy
A timeline for your wedding day in Italy
While our weddings are as beautifully varied as our couples themselves, many of our couples have chosen a timeline similar to this for their 1-day wedding in Italy. To avoid the summer heat, our Italian wedding ceremonies tend to start in the late afternoon.
11am: getting ready
Stylists arrive for the bride and her bridal party. The photographer begins taking getting-ready shots.
3pm: first looks
First looks with the parents, loved ones, and between the couple — captured by the photographer
4pm: ceremony
The musician plays your song, you walk down the aisle, and you exchange your vows to each other.
5pm: cocktail hour
An aperitivo hour: spritzes and stuzzichini come out on trays as the band plays.
5.30pm: group photos
The photographer gathers everyone for group photos in all the constellations you need.
6pm: couple photoshoot
The couple slips away for a photoshoot with golden light. Entertainment for the guests.
7.30pm: dinner
A long Italian dinner is served — course after course, with speeches in between.
9:30pm: first dance
Father-daughter and mother-son dances, and your first dance together ring in the night.
10pm: cake cutting
The wedding cake is brought out and cut by the couple. The staff takes over and serves to everyone.
Into the night: dancing
The DJ takes over and dancing lasts into the night. For guests not staying on site, taxis are arranged.
UNMISTAKABLY YOURS
Shaping the atmosphere of your Italian wedding abroad
Our weddings are as beautifully unique as our couples. Share your wishes with us and we'll work with you to shape every detail. All the colors and tastes of your wedding day, the scents, the textures, the atmosphere — create a celebration that feels truly yours.
AIRY & LIGHT
Sunny coastal celebrations
The turquoise sea sparkling in the evening sun, a dinner on a terrace above — take full advantage of Italy's coastal beauty for your Italian wedding style.
GREEN & LUSH
Among the cypress trees
Head towards the heart of Italy, away from the coasts, to celebrate at a beautiful villa set among olive groves and cypresses.
QUIETLY ELEGANT
Lake-side vistas
Perched above the shores, you can let your Italian lake-side villa set the scene for a quietly elegant celebration.
URBAN ESCAPES
City settings
Effortlessly chic and historic — add your personal love story to the history of Italy's old and beautiful cities.
THE FINANCIALS
Cost of a wedding in Italy
The cost of your wedding should not be a mystery. An essential question when beginning your wedding planning: How much does a wedding in Italy cost?
Simple celebrations
€7,000 – €15,000
Celebrations in Italy for a few guests that focus on the essentials of a wedding but still include services like photography and florals, will start at around this price point.
Intimate weddings
€15,000 – €40,000
Intimate weddings with a few dozen guests in beautiful venues can vary widely in price. To give you an idea of the cost, most of our wedding of this size are within this range.
Popular spots & seasons
€40,000+
Summer weddings in popular locations like Lake Como sit at the top of this scale. Since every wedding is unique, we are happy to advise on the cost for yours.
Experiences around your Big Day in Italy
Getting married in Italy means you get to explore your chosen destination beyond just a single day. Experience Italy to the fullest and create memories to last for years to come.
CULINARY EXPERIENCES
Tastings & dining
Discover the tastes of Italy through wine or olive oil tastings right among the groves. Private dining at your venue, or picnics with local produce give you a chance to spend time with your guests in a relaxed private setting. Guided food tours show you around the best food spots in town.
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
Guided tours & classes
Explore the city with a local guide to learn about its history, or let a local photographer lead you to their favorite photo spots. Classes and workshops like traditional pottery techniques or blending your own wine are taught by experts and allow you to dive deeper into Italy's traditional crafts.
OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES
Nature & countryside
Bike tours or a classic vespa tour is a truly Italian way to discover the region. In the summer, rent a boat and swim at undisturbed beaches of the Mediterranean. The night skies are clear once you leave the cities behind and are perfect for stargazing.
MAGICAL JOURNEYS
Luxury trains & scenic cruises
Elegant luxury trains in the style of the gilded age let you travel in style. Book a private suite in one of them and make the journey to your destination an experience in itself. Similarly, cruises allow you to travel along the coastlines of Italy in a leisurely pace and with great views.
BEYOND PIZZA & PASTA
Italian wedding cuisine
Food is at the heart of an Italian wedding. Get a taste of Italy during your stay and incorporate local flavors into your wedding day.
APERITIVO
Summer in a glass: Aperol Spritz
For many Europeans the first glass of Aperol Spritz of the season rings in the true start of summer.
It does not have to be only Aperol either: Sarti, or Campari are just as beloved as the original.
Served chilled as a sweet after-dinner digestif, Limoncello from the southern regions of Italy, is also a popular choice.
ANTIPASTO, PRIMO & SECONDO
Regional flavors beyond pizza
A light start to an Italian wedding feast often comes in the form of cold dishes like salads or bruschetta.
A pasta dish is a popular first course — and the choices are endless when it comes to taste.
The main dish, the secondo, is the true star of the feast. While traditionally meat or fish is served, vegetarian and vegan options are just as exciting
DOLCI
Confettata & un caffè
A sweet ending to an Italian wedding is a must. A confettata, a table full of sweets, sugared almonds, and pastries, is prepared after the meal has come to an end.
The traditional wedding cake is a millefoglie, a single-tier cake of many layers filled with Chantilly cream and topped with fresh strawberries and almond slivers.
My wife was shocked at how relaxed she felt from start to finish.
Justin & Yedda
Wedding traditions in Italy
Italian wedding culture is rich and vibrant, focussing on togetherness first. Traditions and their popularity vary a lot by region. Weave in Italian culture into your day by incorporating wedding customs that give your day a sense of place.
A TRADITION FROM THE SOUTH
La serenata
This wedding tradition emerged in the south of Italy, and this is where it is still most practiced today. On the eve of the wedding day, the groom serenades his bride to be with a song underneath her window. Of course, modern variations of this charming custom have now sprung up. Couples include moments of song during their rehearsal dinner in the midst of their family and friends.
POST-CEREMONY TRADITIONS
Rice & flower petals
This beloved wedding tradition has found its place in many cultures all around the world, and it is still widely practiced today. After the ceremony, guests will throw rice or flower petals as the newlywed couple makes their way out of the church or their chosen wedding venue, bringing luck and prosperity.
SWEET THANK YOUS
Confetti & bomboniere: sugared almonds
To thank their guests for attending their wedding day, the couple hands out gifts to their wedding guests. While the gifts today vary, they traditionally include confetti (sugared almonds). Note the number of almonds! It must be an odd number, preferably five or seven
THE OUTFITS
Two wedding dresses and no dress code
Perhaps not a tradition in the true sense of the word, but an important part of Italian wedding culture nonetheless. Italian weddings don't usually have a strict theme or color code for guests to follow — guests dress elegantly and for the occasion according to their own tastes.
Stemming from times when a Catholic church wedding was the norm and required a more modest dress, Italian brides often choose to change into a second wedding dress for their reception.
Eleonora was able to coordinate exactly what we wanted within our budget and it turned out better than we could have imagined.
Natalie & James
TRANSPORT
Getting around Italy
Traveling within Italy is easy and convenient — and offers plenty of ways to make the journey an experience in itself.
Flying in
Italy has more than 40 commercial airports you can fly into. If you are flying in from outside of Europe, chances are you will land in Rome, Milan, Naples, or Florence. From here, you can either take a connecting regional flight to your destination, or choose to travel more slowly by train or car and see more of your wedding destination on the way.
Trains
A well-connected rail network covers Italy. Between major cities, modern high-speed trains will get you to your destination faster than a car would. Make sure to pre-book tickets, especially in summer time. To make a truly special experience of your train journey in Italy, you can even book a private suite on the elegant trains inspired by the designs of old.
Rental car
The easiest and most straightforward way to get around the country. However, if this is your first time driving in Italy, be aware of its tricky parts. Narrow serpentine roads in the mountainous areas, and a certain chaotic flair on the roads of the inner cities can make driving in Italy a challenge. But it gives you the flexibility to reach even remote locations with ease.
Scenic cruises & ferries
With so much coastline, and rivers spanning so many cities, it comes as no surprise that traveling by water is a real and beautiful option to get around. Over 80 ports connect the major coastal cities. If you have the time, enjoy the slow and relaxed way to travel by water on a cruise that can range from simple charm to lavish opulence in its design.
HOTELS & CO.
Staying in Italy
From lakeside villas to family-run locande, Italy offers beautiful ways to stay.
Boutique hotels
Italy has no shortage of beautiful boutique hotels to stay for your wedding. Depending on your preferences and your budget, you can choose quietly comfortable hotels in rural Italy, or opt for palace-like suites overlooking Italy's greatest sights. Tell us your vision and let our local knowledge be your guide.
Locande
Locande, private inns that are often family-owned, are an authentically Italian way to stay. These accommodations prioritize a personal approach to service and a feeling of home above lavish interiors and grand luxuries. You can expect delicious meals, natural settings, and a private feeling to your stay.
Villas
Lake shores are dotted with villas of the Italian former nobility and are not only a beautiful place to get married, but an elegant way to stay in Italy. Looking beyond the lakes, private villas are available for hire in more intimate settings beyond the main tourist destinations.
Italy compared to other European wedding destinations
How does Italy compare to getting married in other European wedding destinations?
Cost
Italy is on the more expensive side compared to Portugal or Spain, but the value for money you can expect is exceptional.
Venues
Main stars among wedding venues in Italy are its villas and boutique hotels with lovely views of lakes, mountains, and rolling hills.
Best time to marry
We love spring or early fall to avoid both the summer heat and the summer crowds in popular destinations.
Vibes
Laid-back and unhurried, with a distinct sense of timeless elegance and enjoyment for the beauty of the world — be it food, drink, or art.
Vendors
Italy has a very strong wedding industry, with talented vendors for almost every service and style. Rural areas offer slightly less choice.
Logistics
Very well connected destination both internationally and nationally, which makes travel easy and safe.
Kind words from couples we helped to tie the knot in Italy
"We couldn't have asked for a better wedding planning experience! Planning a wedding overseas can be stressful, but Eleonora and her team made everything effortless from start to finish. Every single vendor they recommended was absolutely top tier, from the stunning floral arrangements to the beautiful celebrant who made the ceremony feel so personal and heartfelt. Our planner, Eleonora, was always in touch with us, quick to respond, and genuinely cared about bringing our vision to life. "
"Working with PPW was a dream! It was so simple and easy and elegant. We picked the location and we were hooked up with our AMAZING wedding planner, Eleonora. From there I selected 1-2 pictures of flowers, hair, and make up and she made my dream wedding come true. It was that simple. It was the wedding of our dreams and we never had to feel a moment of stress. If you are considering eloping or having a small wedding in Europe and don't know where to start, start HERE!"
""Wonderful experience start to finish. Very customisable and great quality vendors. Eleonora our wedding planner was communicative throughout the whole process and a lovely presence on the day to ensure things ran smoothly. Our venue in Italy was out of this world! Incredibly easy process and lowest stress wedding I could have ever imagined.""
Quick facts
What to know before your wedding trip to Italy
A few practical things worth knowing before your wedding trip to Italy.
Currency & paying
The currency in Italy is Euro. You can pay by card in most places, but do have some cash on hand for small street purchases of snacks and drinks.
Languages spoken
Italian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Towards the north, French and German becomes a bit wider spoken as well.
Major holidays
Around Ferragosto on August 15 is the time when many businesses in Italy close their doors, as locals head to the beaches to relax for a few weeks.
Tipping culture
Tipping in Italy is not mandatory and most restaurants include a service charge. Tipping your wedding vendors is appreciated as a gesture but not a rule.
How to plan a destination wedding in Italy
Our Italy wedding packages make planning refreshingly simple. You focus on the enjoyable choices; Eleonora takes care of the details.
Choose your venue + package
Find an Italian wedding venue and package that catches your heart. If you don't see one you like, we will help you create it!
Meet your planner & adjust your package
Eleonora, your dedicated wedding planner in Italy, will be in touch with you to help you bring your Italian wedding to life.
Decide on all the beautiful details
Flowers, music, menu — decide the details that matter to you. We book Italy's best-fitting vendors for the rest.
Enjoy the day of your wedding
Then enjoy every minute. We handle setup and day-of coordination while you're busy getting married.
A taster of our packages
WE HAVE THE ANSWERS
FAQs about getting married in Italy
Can foreigners legally get married in Italy?
Yes — a legal wedding in Italy is open to foreign nationals without Italian citizenship or residency. The ceremony takes place in Italian (we arrange a translator) at a licensed venue or town hall. Most of our couples prefer a symbolic ceremony instead: no bureaucracy, full freedom over your venue and vows, and just as meaningful. You can handle the legal side back home.
What's the best time of year for an Italian wedding?
Spring (late March to May) is our top pick — mild temperatures, blooming gardens, smaller crowds, and venues at their most beautiful. Early autumn (September to October) is a close second: outdoor ceremonies are still very much possible, the vineyards are in harvest, and the light is extraordinary. Summer is vibrant and iconic; winter is quieter and stays mild in the south.
Which region of Italy should we choose?
It depends on what draws you. The Amalfi Coast and Positano offer terraced villages above turquoise water. Lake Como and Garda are quietly elegant with mountain backdrops. Tuscany brings rolling hills, cypress trees, and vineyard estates. Sicily and Rome each have their own character entirely. Our planner Eleonora knows Italy deeply and will guide you to the region — and the venue — that feels most like you.
How much does a wedding in Italy cost?
Italy offers exceptional value given the beauty and quality on offer. Simple celebrations for a small group sit at the more accessible end, while intimate weddings with guests and a full day vary more widely by region, venue, and season. Summer weddings at top venues on the lakes or Amalfi Coast sit at the higher end. Our fixed-price packages make the costs clear from day one.
What guest count do you work with for Italian weddings?
We specialize in intimate celebrations, typically from elopements for two up to around 60 guests. Italy's villas, historic estates, and lakeside properties are beautifully suited to smaller groups — the kind of day where every guest feels genuinely part of the celebration rather than part of a crowd.
How far in advance should we start planning?
For a legal wedding in Italy, we recommend starting around 9 to 12 months ahead — that leaves room for the paperwork (like the Nulla Osta) and for booking the best venues. Symbolic ceremonies and elopements can come together faster. Popular spots on the lakes and the Amalfi Coast book up earliest, especially for summer dates.
Is a symbolic ceremony legally binding?
No — and for many couples that's the appeal. A symbolic ceremony gives you full freedom over the location, timing, and wording of your vows, with none of the bureaucracy. You handle the legal paperwork quietly back home, then celebrate your real wedding day in Italy whenever and wherever you choose.
What language is the ceremony in?
A civil, legally binding ceremony is conducted in Italian, and we arrange a translator so you follow every word. A symbolic ceremony can be held entirely in English — or any language and format you like. Either way, you'll always understand exactly what's being said on the day.
Will our guests be able to get around easily?
Yes. Italy has more than 40 commercial airports and an excellent high-speed rail network, so most guests reach even smaller destinations without much trouble, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas. For rural venues, we help arrange transfers so nobody has to worry about driving unfamiliar roads.
Do you plan same-sex weddings in Italy?
Absolutely. Italy recognizes same-sex civil unions, and symbolic ceremonies are open to every couple, anywhere in the country. We're proud to plan celebrations for couples of all genders and orientations, with the same care and attention to detail.
