At its core, Italy is a collection of romantic landscapes, historical landmarks, and culinary excellence — all of which make it a top choice for destination weddings. If you’re looking for an in-depth cultural charm, Italy should be high on your list for destination weddings, but where do you start with planning? From legal requirements to location recommendations, and Italian wedding planning tips for foreigners here’s everything you need to know to plan a destination wedding in Italy.

Why Should You Get Married In Italy?

So, why Italy? Well, it’s not just the landscapes (although, yes, they’re stunning). Italy has this old-world magic that makes everything just feel … alive. This place practically invented romance, and honestly, there’s nowhere else quite like it for saying I do. 

From Tuscan sunsets to the ancient streets of Rome, this is why Italy should be on your wedding radar. Here’s the definitive answer to ‘Where can I get married in Italy?’.

Tuscan Vineyards: For Sunset Lovers, Wine Drinkers & Rolling Hill Admirers

Imagine this: golden sunlight spilling through vineyards and the air thick with the scent of cypress trees and fresh grapes — a common sight in Tuscany. This is a place for couples who want more than just a pretty backdrop; it’s for those who crave that raw, indescribable vibe.

• Vineyards and Villas: Tuscan wineries offer everything from rustic to upscale, with estates that feel untouched by time.
  
• Sunset Vows: There’s something quite cinematic about exchanging vows at sunset here. Perfect for that soft, golden glow on your wedding photos.

The Amalfi Coast: Sea Meets The Sky

If you’re dreaming of cliffs that dive into crystal-clear waters, Amalfi is your spot. Think bold splashes of colour, winding cliffside paths, and every angle looking like it’s straight out of a Wes Anderson film.

• Seaside Venues: From Positano’s iconic views to Ravello’s hidden gardens, the Amalfi Coast serves up plenty of options.
  
• Mediterranean Feasts: Imagine toasting with limoncello and feasting on fresh seafood with the sound of waves crashing in the background. It doesn’t get more Italian than that!

Rome’s Ancient Charm: For Couples Who Love A Touch of Drama

Rome is for those who want to step into history, with ancient ruins and grand architecture that’s unapologetically bold. Marrying here is like adding your own love story to the city’s thousand-year-old timeline. It doesn’t get better than that.

• Architecture: Rome’s churches, basilicas, and piazzas aren’t just venues—they’re living pieces of art.
  
• Timeless: Whether it’s a chic rooftop or a hidden garden, Rome has this undeniable charm that feels as modern as it does ancient.

Puglia’s Rustic Allure: Where Unconventional Meets Authentic

For couples who want something a little under-the-radar, Puglia is Italy’s best-kept secret. Known for its olive groves, stone farmhouses, and sun-drenched beaches, Puglia is perfect for those who appreciate a blend of rugged beauty and modern design.

• Farmhouse Venues: Puglia is packed with masserias (traditional farmhouses) turned modern wedding venues. It’s rustic but in that effortlessly cool way.
  
  
• Local Art and Architecture: This region has a unique design scene, blending classic and contemporary. Ideal if you’re into architecture that doesn’t play by the rules.

Who Should Get Married in Italy

Italy isn’t just for anyone — it’s for the right kind of couple. If you’re drawn to romance that’s both subtle and intense, places that hold ancient stories, and scenery that’s effortlessly cinematic, you might match perfectly with this country. Italy is for couples who see their wedding as a once-in-a-lifetime art piece.

For the art-loving, modern couple …

Think modern art blended with ancient ruins, or a sleek rooftop ceremony overlooking centuries-old churches. Italy’s wedding scene goes beyond clichés, making it perfect for those who value art, design, and unconventional style.

• Architecture & Design Fans: From Florence’s Renaissance art to Rome’s modern rooftops, Italy is a dream for couples inspired by structure and design.
  
  
• History Buffs and Cultural Explorers: If you’re fascinated by stories and symbolism, Italy gives you the chance to marry surrounded by centuries of romance and millions of stories.

The Best Time of Year to Get Married in Italy

Italy’s seasons each bring their own charm, so it’s all about choosing the one that best fits your vision. Here’s a quick guide to picking the right time:

Spring (March to June)

Blooming flowers and mild temperatures. Spring is perfect if you’re after vibrant colours and fresh greenery for your big day. It’s worth noting that the mornings and evenings are still a bit chilly.

Summer (June to September)

Italy’s peak tourist season, but also when you’ll find that Mediterranean heat and long days. Coastal spots like the Amalfi Coast or Lake Como come to life, though expect crowds and high temperatures.

Autumn (September to November)

With cooler weather, fewer tourists, and warm autumn colours, fall is a solid choice for those who want all of Italy’s beauty without the summer crowds. The North of Italy is colder and wetter while the South is warmer and drier.

Winter (December to March)

Off-season for weddings but perfect for an intimate, cosy celebration in the cities. Imagine a winter wedding in Florence or Rome, with fewer tourists and an ambience that feels like you have the city to yourself. Enjoy cheaper prices, but changeable weather. The Alps will be full of snow, but the valleys and lower parts may not be.

The Practicalities & Legalities of Getting Married in Italy

Italy might be a dream wedding destination, but it’s important to understand the logistics to make that happen. With a bit of planning (and maybe the right help), the process can be as smooth as an Italian espresso. Here are a few Italy destination wedding planning tips for your big day.

What Do You Need To Get Married In Italy As A Foreigner?

Are you wondering ‘Can foreigners get married in Italy?’ The answer is an unequivocal yes. If you’re also unsure about how to get married in Italy as an American, or if you’re a non-Italian citizen, a few legal requirements need to be in order before you say “I do” under the Tuscan sun.

• Marriage Licence & Documents: You’ll need the basics — valid passports, birth certificates, and an affidavit that proves you’re legally free to marry. All couples, for instance, will need a “Nulla Osta,” a declaration you can get at your local embassy in Italy. The documentation can vary depending on your nationality, so double-check based on where you’re from.
  
  
• Declaration of Intent: This document is signed in front of a civil registrar in Italy. The declaration states that you both intend to get married, which must be done several days before the ceremony, depending on the location.
  
  
• Ceremony Requirements: Most couples in Italy opt for either a civil or symbolic ceremony. A civil ceremony, recognised legally, requires a specific location and an official interpreter if you don’t speak Italian. A symbolic ceremony, on the other hand, offers more freedom — you can hold it just about anywhere without the formalities.
  
  
• Legal fees: For a civil destination wedding in Italy, they are typically around €200 to €300
  
  
• Witnesses: Mandatory for civil and religious ceremonies, but not for secular (non-religious) weddings

To get married in Italy, legal requirements like these must be fulfilled.

Hiring a Celebrant

For civil ceremonies, an Italian celebrant is mandatory, as they’ll ensure everything aligns with Italian legal requirements. If you’re planning a symbolic ceremony, though, you have more flexibility and can bring in someone personal to officiate.

Why You Should Consider Hiring a Local Wedding Planner

Honestly, hiring a local wedding planner in Italy can be a game-changer. They’ll know the ins and outs of Italy’s wedding legalities, have connections to local vendors, and can handle things like permits and translation.

• Beat the Bureaucracy: Paperwork can be complicated, especially in a foreign language. A solid planner will guide you through each step and ensure nothing is missed.
  
• Vendor Connections: Whether you need florists, caterers, or anything else, local planners have a network of trusted professionals who know the Italian wedding scene inside out.
  
• Cultural Insight: A local planner will bring added levels of authenticity to your day, ensuring your wedding blends well with Italian culture and avoids any potential faux pas.

Top Locations For High-End Luxury Weddings In Italy

Looking to celebrate in high-end style? Whether you’re hunting for an enchanting villa, stunning coastal views, or historic estates that link your day with the past, planning a luxury wedding in Italy is a great idea. Here are some of the best Italian wedding venues for foreigners:

Tuscany: Rustic & Timeless

• Villa Cora: Nestled just outside Florence, this 19th-century villa boasts ornate murals, lush gardens, and a stunning pool.
  
• Castello di Velona: Perched on a hilltop, this castle offers panoramic views of the Val d’Orcia. Exchange vows in the castle gardens, then celebrate with family & friends in the ballroom.

Amalfi Coast: Breathtaking Views and Seaside Luxury

• Villa Cimbrone: Overlooking the Mediterranean from the cliffs of Ravello, Villa Cimbrone is famed for its breathtaking views and historic elegance. Surrounded by lush gardens and centuries-old architecture, it’s one of my top places for a wedding in Italy.
  
• Belmond Hotel Caruso: Situated in a former 11th-century palace, Belmond Hotel Caruso offers an enchanting and luxurious atmosphere for weddings. 

Puglia: Rustic Beauty Meets Modern Luxury

Known as the breadbasket of Italy, Puglia features centuries-old converted farmland venues and a stunning Mediterranean coastline — Puglia is one of the top Italian wedding destinations for modern weddings.

• Masseria San Domenico: This luxurious 15th-century estate is a converted farmhouse set among sprawling gardens. This traditional yet modern wedding venue in Puglia combines beautiful architecture paired with upscale amenities to create an ideal atmosphere for a timeless occasion.
  
• Borgo Egnazia: This exclusive resort blends traditional Apulian architecture with luxurious on-site accommodations. Civil, symbolic or protestant ceremonies can take place at the venue.

Lake Como: A Picturesque Escape

For couples dreaming of a lakeside wedding, Lake Como wedding venues offer a stunning backdrop – the epitome of Italian romance.

• Villa Balbianello: This historic villa, famous for its enchanting gardens and dramatic lake views, is perfect for intimate luxury weddings. The venue has even been the backdrop for films like James Bond and Star Wars.
  
• Grand Hotel Tremezzo: With a breathtaking lakeside setting and opulent accommodations, this hotel provides a once-in-a-lifetime venue for your wedding. Say your vows on the terrace overlooking the lake, followed by a spectacular reception in the grand ballroom.

Crafting A Unique, High-End Wedding Experience

When planning a luxury destination wedding in Italy, consider adding local touches that reflect the culture and charm of the region:

• CURATED MENUS: Work with local chefs to create a menu featuring traditional Italian cuisine, paired with wines from the region.
  
• CUSTOMISED EXPERIENCES: Arrange unique excursions for your guests, such as vineyard tours, cooking classes, or private boat rides on the lake.
  
• ARTISTIC DECOR: Contact local artists to commission pieces for your wedding and help ensure the day is uniquely yours. Handmade ceramics and floral arrangements inspired by the landscape.
  
  

How To Make Your Destination Wedding Even More Special

Your wedding is the perfect opportunity to ensure a day is yours. Cookie-cutter weddings have no place on this occasion, so here are a few ideas to create a one-of-a-kind experience:

Local Cuisine & Wine

• CURATED TASTING MENUS: Work with your caterer to design a multi-course meal that showcases the best of regional cuisine, and your tastes mixed together. Think fresh pasta from Gragnano, seafood from the coast, and produce that highlights local flavours and seasonality.
  
• WINE PAIRINGS: Collaborate with local sommeliers to select wines that complement each course. For a Tuscan wedding, consider Chianti or Brunello wines, while a Puglian celebration could feature Primitivo or Salentino.
  
• FOOD STATIONS: Set up interactive food stations where guests can enjoy local delicacies like arancini (rice balls), bruschetta with heirloom tomatoes, or a charcuterie board filled with produce from the surrounding area.

Trips & Activities

• ART & ARCHITECTURE TOURS: Organise private tours of local galleries or architectural landmarks. You could even host a day trip (before or after your day) to Florence to explore the Uffizi Gallery or a visit to the Trulli houses in Alberobello.
  
• COOKING CLASSES: This could be a fun pre-wedding activity for the two of you or a bonding experience for a few close guests. You’d learn how to make traditional Italian dishes from local chefs and could bring those skills home with you.
  
• WINE TASTING TOURS: Organise a day out for everyone at a local vineyard. Enjoy wine tastings paired with local snacks while soaking in everything the Italian countryside has to offer. 

Artistic Decor & Personal Touches

• BESPOKE INVITATIONS & STATIONERY: Commission local artists to design your wedding stationery, ensuring that the theme flows from your invites to your thank-you cards.
  
• CUSTOM DECOR ELEMENTS: From table settings to floral arrangements, aim for decor that reflects your artistic vision.
  
• INTERACTIVE ART INSTALLATIONS: Set up an area with a live painter who captures the wedding as it unfolds. This not only serves as entertainment but also results in a beautiful piece of art you can cherish forever alongside your photos.
  
• LOCAL ARTISANAL GIFTS: Consider giving guests locally-made artisanal gifts, such as olive oil, handmade ceramics, or custom-labelled wine.

There you have it, an in-depth guide to planning a modern destination wedding in Italy. All that’s left to do is to pick your photographer. If you’re looking for a delightfully quirky destination wedding photographer in Italy with a passion for capturing the beauty and chaos of love stories, I’m all in. Get in touch today to discuss your vision, and together we’ll craft a day worthy of telling your story.