Top Wedding Destinations in Italy

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You may have the universe if I may have Italy – Giuseppe Verdi.

Italy is renowned for its magnificent scenery and rich culture. Marvelled over for centuries by the rest of the world. However, many people do not know that each region in Italy is fiercely proud of its cities and countryside and claims to be superior in every aspect. A never-ending debate as each region is so uniquely different it is difficult to compare. Italy is celebrated for its top wedding destinations across the country.

The easiest way to choose which city to have your Italian wedding in is to know what describes you, your tastes and habits as a couple. These are the top wedding destinations in Italy:

  1. Florence- Cultured couple
  2. Rome – History Lovers
  3. Amalfi, Sardina, Sicily and Puglia – Sea Souls
  4. Siena and Chianti -Wine connoisseurs
  5. Fabulous Foodies
  6. Milan and Florence – Fashion Fanatics
  7. Lake Como – Pure Glamour
Black and white photo of a bride and groom, symbolizing romance in one of Italy's top wedding destinations.

Cultured Couple

Italy is pouring with culture with some of the most renowned works of art and artists hailing from Italy. The Italians have been at the forefront of intellectual achievements for centuries. Art, literature and music dance through Italy romantically, but the culmination of this culture happens in Florence.

“A city-size shrine to the Renaissance, Florence offers frescoes, sculptures, churches, palaces, and other monuments from the richest cultural flowering the world has known.” – National Geographic.

Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, home to polymaths like Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael and pre-renaissance masters like Sandro Botticelli. Florence also boasts architectural marvels such as Brunelleschi’s Dome and Brancacci’s Santa Maria del Carmine.

Literature geniuses such as Boccaccio, whose most influential work is The Decameron.  Carlo Collodi, the author of the cultural icon Pinnochio, both call Florence their home.

If arts and culture excite you as a couple, Florence is the top wedding destination in Italy.

Florence is submerged in history and romance with fresco villas and cobbled streets filled with character.

A boat is seen on the water beside the Ponte Vecchio bridge, highlighting a romantic wedding spot in Florence, Italy.

History Lovers

Rome is the city of love – and one of the top wedding destinations in Italy. It is clearly in the name; Roma reversed is amor – meaning love in Italian. That is the exact essence of the streets of Rome true romance. Rome is also known as the ‘Eternal City’ as the Romans have always believed that their city will last forever.

Rome will exist as long as the Coliseum does;

when the Coliseum falls, so will Rome;

when Rome falls, so will the world. -Saint Venerable Bede, English Benedictine monk

Ancient Rome was so impactful that we can see traces of it in today‘s life from the military, political, and social institutions. Having a powerful military force, the Romans invaded land all over the world. The success in these advancements is evident still today.

In Rome, parts of the ancient city still stand, giving us a glimpse into the lives of ancient Roamans. With iconic feats of architecture like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Vatican City still standing. 

There is an element of grandeur and importance to the city. The locals are fiercely proud this never has and never will change.

From the dome of St. Peters, one can see every notable object in Rome. He can see a panorama that is varied, extensive, beautiful to the eye, and more illustrious in history than any other in Europe. – Mark Twain, American Writer

Rome is the ideal place to wed if tales of the past inthrill you. The ever-lasting city seems to be the perfect place for a long-lasting, impactful marriage. An ideal destination wedding location.

Sea Souls

Living a Mediterranean lifestyle only comes if there is a sea in your background. Italy has the most breathtaking sea senes, dotted with luxury villas and hotels. A top wedding destination in Italy, fit for movie stars, we are spoilt for choice here in Italy.

The south of Italy is infamous for “la dolce vita,” where the sun, sea and sand are in perfect union. The crystal blue water is charming, interrupted only by perfect islands scattered along the coast. Including the luxurious islands of Capri, Sardina and Sicily.

The Amalfi coast explodes with colour and flavour. With its cities gripping to the cliffs overlooking the ocean, it is nothing short of breathtaking.

“They say that when Judgement day comes, the lives of the people of Amalfi will not change, for they are already living in paradise.”- Anon.

Puglia, located on the ‘boot’ of Italy, is known for its whitewashed towns scattered on the hills surrounded by miles of coastline. Home to the UNESCO heritage, Trulli huts.

If you want an unforgettable destination wedding of true luxury and bliss, we think the south of Italy is for you.

See how to plan your beach wedding

Wine Connoisseurs

Oenophilia reigns throughout Italy, being the number one producer of wine in the world. The French have champagne, in Italy, we have Prosecco, which we think is far better. There are over 20 wine regions alone in Italy. However, most will agree that Tuscan wine is supreme. Although Veneto, Apulia, Emilia-Romagna, Sicilian wine is also highly regarded.

Non si può avere la botte piena e la moglie ubriaca – One can’t have a full barrel and a drunk wife.

The Italian proverb for you can not have your cake and eat it. We disagree. In Siena and the Chianti regions, there will forever be barrels full and festivities high.

With renowned vineyards such as Antinori, Castello di Nipozzano and many more, you will never go thirsty.

Set in the perfect landscape of rolling hills covered in vineyards and cypress-lined avenues, we can hear the bottles popping already. Tuscany is a classic choice for any wine lover and a top wedding destination in Italy. Saluti!

Fabulous Foodies

If you decide to have your destination wedding in Italy as a foody, you have made the right choice. Exploding with flavour and passion, Italians are immensely proud of their gastronomy.

In Italy, they add work and life to food and wine. – Robin Leach

Knowing what Italian flavours you and your partner love may help you identify where to get married in Italy. Each region in Italy offers a unique flavour profile that has been perfected for generations. 

A very simplified flavour profile of Italy is:

Lombardy

In the north of Italy, cities in Lombardy are famous for dishes like ossobuco and risotto.

Piedmont

Rich, warm flavours of veal, truffles, Barolo and herbs from the north.

Venice

In the romantic maze of Venice, seafood and polenta are readily available. Cicchetti, like finger food for aperitivo and tiramisu for dessert.

Bolonia

The birthplace of bolognese. Known for its meat, you will find premium pork and sausages that pair perfectly with Lambrusco, a wine from this region.

Liguria

The iconic dish from this region is made with Trofie and pesto, accompanied by the finest focaccia and a bottle of local white wine from Cinque Terre.

Tuscany

Brunello and Chianti pair perfectly with a florentine steak. Or if it is a warm summers day, a glass of pecorino with gelato is fitting.

Rome

Rome is the home of pasta carbonara, pizza bianca (white pizza), fresh, beautiful artichokes and oxtail dishes.

Naples

The birthplace of the true pizza, Napoli style. Thick crust, tomato base and tones of mozzarella. Limoncello is a must after every meal in the south of Italy.

Puglia

Renowned for its production of olive oil. Puglia has a simple flavour profile, letting the ingredients speak for themselves. Fresh seafood and clams will always be on the menu.

Sardinia and Sicily

Being islands seafood is king with lobster, sardine pasta, clams and more. The sweet tooth of the south is satisfied with fresh sorbet and Cannoli.

See how to plan a wedding in Italy

No matter where you decide to have your destination wedding, you will be fed to contentment and watered till you are merry.

A bride and groom joyfully cutting their wedding cake at a picturesque venue in Italy, celebrating their special day.

Fashion Fanatics

The most stylish country in the world is Italy.– Nick Rhodes

Italy is infamous for being home to some of the worlds most luxury fashion houses. Notorious for their craftsmanship and ability to create works of wearable art. Houses such as Valentino, Versace, Prada, Miu Miu, Max Mara, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Marni, Missoni, Trussardi, Moschino, Bottega Veneta, Ferragamo, Pucci and Gucci to name a few, are all proudly Italian.

Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world, the streets of Milan reflect this. Milan is one of top wedding destinations in Italy that offers elegance and sophistication, but with a modern twist.

The houses of Prada and Miu Miu are local to Milan. Visit the Prada foundation, celebrating out the box thinking. For a fashion-forward wedding, the streets of Milan lend the perfect backdrop, especially the gothic architecture of the Dome.

Florence is the origin of the “Made In Italy” brand and the destination of the annual Pitti Uomo. Florence is known for its artisanal craftsmanship and leather goods. Gucci, Ferragamo and Pucci are all heritage luxury stores that are all deeply rooted in Florence.

Italians know that what matters is style, not fashion. Italian style does not have social or age boundaries.– Stefano Gabbana

It is impossible not to look fabulous on your wedding day when you have Italian flair throughout your event. Milan and Florence are the top wedding destinations in Italy for true fashionistas.

Pure Glamour

If you want to escape and live like a film star, Italy is the place to do it. It is possible to rent entire islands off the coast or even a yacht to host your big day. We will be able to bring all the mainland goodness with us.

If you want to be like George Clooney- Lake Como is the perfect option. With grand Villas overlooking the great lakes, it is something out of a love story. With the divine villa grounds and the rolling hills, meeting at the lakeside. The Great Lakes are the perfect place to have your destination wedding if you want pure luxury and glamour, a location that Jay Gatsby would have marvelled over.

Conclusion

We could go on forever! Italy has everything you could want for a luxury destination wedding.

Having an experienced local wedding planner will help identify the perfect location for your taste, budget and party size. For a free consultation on the top wedding destinations in Italy, wedding planning, and more, please contact our team of experts.

Beach Wedding in Italy – Locations, Tips & More!

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The beautiful blue sea as your backdrop with the fresh ocean mist in the air, we could not think of a more perfect place to say “I do” than on an Italian beach. Beach weddings are truly enchanting and although the outcome is light and easy, the planning takes a lot of consideration.

Here is our list of the 3 main things to focus on when planning a beach wedding in Italy:

1) Location, location, location

  • Where in Italy?
  • The degree of beach
  • Accessibility
  • Permit necessity
  • Avoid the crowds

2) Know your environment – prepare in advance

  • Beach set up
  • Sturdy seating
  • Prepare for all weather
  • Sound system for ceremony

3) Dress to Impress – Dress code

  • Light, easy material
  • Skip the veil, do an updo
  • Ditch the heels
  • Plan your tan
  • Brief your guests
Bride and groom walk hand in hand at their beach wedding in Italy

1) Where to have your beach wedding in Italy?

Italy has an abundance of breathtaking beaches for your wedding day. All with a unique twist and culture, completing the Italian wedding fantasy. If a sunny, amorous atmosphere is what you desire these are the ideal places to be wed:

  • Amalfi Coast – Filled with vibrant ceramics and zesty lemons.
  • Capri – True luxury in retail, cuisine, scents and views.
  • Puglia – With the longest coastline, boasting stunning beaches and exploding with flavour, known as the “breadbasket” of Italy
  • Sorrento – Known for its Lemoncello and historical landmarks
  • Italian Riviera – The home of Cinque Terre and beautiful fresh produce.
  • Sicily – Sicilian cuisine and sandy beaches
Belmond Hotel Caruso view in Amalfi coast, perfect for Beach wedding in Italy

The Degree of Beach

Having a beach wedding in Italy you are spoilt for choice, able to cater for any couples desire,even up to how much beach they want. 

With luxury villas and hotels resting on the seaside or mounted on the ocean cliffs, you have control of how sandy you want your toes to get. 

You could be fully immersed, saying your vowels next to the waves or miles above it on top of a cliff with the stretching ocean as your backdrop.

Vibrant houses on a cliff by the ocean, capturing the essence of a beach wedding in Italy's Riviera Liguria.

Accessibility

When planning your beach wedding in Italy it is vital to consider accessibility to your venue, for your vendors and guests, whether on the beach or miles above, accessibility should be the priority. 

If you decide to get married at Capri, an island just off the Amalfi coast, consider the logistics of getting all your guests there in time. The same is true with being on a long stretch of beach, make sure all your guests know how to locate the ceremony and have access to it.

Depending on your party you may have to think about putting in ramps or boardwalks to cater for the elderly or handicapped guests to make it out onto the beach safely.

Permits

Many beaches in Italy are open to the public, so you must get the relevant permits to have your beach wedding. This may not always be necessary but better to do your research to avoid any hick-ups on your big day, talk to your wedding planner about how to obtain permits if needed.

Avoid the Crowds

It is important to choose a location that offers a sense of privacy to avoid wedding crashers. The time of year and day you want to get married is vital to research beforehand.

2) Know your Environment

Being surrounded by nature on your wedding day is truly magical, with the sand between your toes, sun on your skin and wind through your hair. However, it can be unpredictable so it is essential to plan for all possible outcomes.

Let your location speak for itself and let its natural beauty show. You do not want to compete with it when it comes to extra decor, less is always more. You can, however have pops of colour in your flowers to contrast the sand and sea, think local and see what natural product is available to add this contrast.

Beach Set up

If you plan to be married on an Italian beach next to the lapping waves and in the sand, there are a few things one needs to consider when planning the set-up:

Sturdy seating

Being in the sand you must have sturdy seating for your guests. Look at seating that will not sink in the sand, be hefty enough not to blow away in the wind or collapse with the uneven grounding.

Changes like the weather

Regardless if you are on the beach or not, if you are outdoors for your ceremony, you are at the mercy of the elements. This includes everything from rain to shine. 

Consider planning your ceremony in the morning or late afternoon to avoid guests being in direct sun at midday. If it is expected to be full sun, think about providing favours to make your guests, keep them cool and comfortable such as Panama hats, day umbrellas or fans. 

With warmer weather, it may also be wise to have refreshments available at the beginning of the ceremony.

It is also wise to have a backup plan when it comes to an outdoor Italian beach wedding, in case the weather changes drastically with rain or wind.

Another thought for guest favours is to have a shoe changing station. If you are having a beach wedding, to avoid guests having sandy shoes you could gift them all a pair of flip flops to wear during the ceremony.

Hearing your vows

As soothing as the wind and waves may be, they can drown out your voices, leaving your guests strained trying to hear your vows. Having a sound system in place will prove hugely helpful for your guests and even your videographer.

3) Dress to impress with your wedding attire

Having a beach wedding in Italy will cause all your senses to be tantalised with calm and romantic vibes of tranquillity. Your attire should match this spirit of harmony, consider wearing lighter shades to keep you cool. Avoid stuffy suits and uncomfortable shoes.

We suggest ditching the heels and opting for delicate sandals or barefoot.

When selecting your dress, think about how the material will feel and flow on the day. Look for light, airy dresses that will have a playful element on the beach, with materials like chiffon or charmeuse. 

Trains and heavy gowns may be difficult to manoeuvre down the aisle, ultimately leaving you hot and flustered on your big day. When it comes to your hair, try an updo to avoid your hair blowing around during the ceremony, so you can focus fully on your partner and what they are saying, we also think this allows for unobstructed pictures. 

The same is true with a vail, more likely than not it is going to be a bit windy so consider skipping on the vail.

A small side note for you to consider before your Italian beach wedding is what swimwear and shirts you will be wearing before the wedding. Being in a sunny destination you are bound to catch a bit of sun, make sure you avoid tan lines that do not fit your dress style.

Consider a spray tan if necessary, always have plenty of SPF on and avoid basking in the sun days before your wedding, you would hate to be burnt walking down the aisle.

Bride getting ready with hair updo for her Beach Wedding in Italy

Brief your guests

When sending invitations out to your guests for your Italian beach wedding let them know the exact dress code for your big day. Depending on your location you may discourage heels and penguin suits.

Promate light flowing outfits to ensure everyone is comfortable throughout the day. You could even take it a step further and limit the colour pallet and aesthetic, this always results in having the most beautiful pictures.

A bride at a beach wedding in Italy, holding two wedding rings nestled in the sand.

Start Planning Your Beach Wedding in Italy

Beach weddings are always alluring and Italian beaches add that extra layer of romance and luxury with turquoise, blue waters and breathtaking views. The crisp air is transcending and you can not help but be infatuated with the whole experience of starting your next chapter together.

Italy is the perfect place to have a beach wedding and VB- Events is the perfect planner to help make your dream day a reality, stress-free. Book a free consultation now.