When it comes to romance, Italy just gets it. The food, the wine, the sunsets that feel like they were painted just for you! This country was basically made for love stories. So it’s no wonder more and more couples are planning an Italy destination wedding. Whether it's a cliffside "I do" on the Amalfi Coast, twinkle lights at a Tuscan villa, or a chic celebration in Florence or Rome, Italy is one of the most breathtaking places you could choose for your big day! An Italy destination wedding can feel completely your own. There’s a region and a venue that’s going to match your love story perfectly. Let’s dive into my guide to Italy’s best regions, venues, and some photography tips to make sure your day is captured as beautifully as it feels!

Aerial view of a large historic villa with balconies, stone steps, and a gravel courtyard surrounded by greenery and hills. Two people are walking near the building for an italy destination wedding

A couple in formal attire sits on stone steps outdoors, looking at each other. The woman wears a white dress, and the man is in a light-colored suit.

A couple dressed in formal attire kisses in an outdoor setting, surrounded by flowers, greenery, string lights, and a table set for a meal.

Why Choose Italy for Your Destination Wedding?

Italy is one of those rare places that feels both luxurious and down-to-earth at the same time. You can sip prosecco while overlooking vineyards, wander down cobblestone streets for portraits, or sneak away for golden hour photos along the coast. Every corner is stunning, and every meal feels like a celebration.

When it comes to reasons couples love planning an Italy destination wedding, the list honestly feels endless, and I couldn’t agree more. You get the most incredible variety of backdrops! Beaches, vineyards, lakes, and historic cities that all look like they were made for love stories. Every time I’m in Italy, I catch myself stopping just to take in the view. It's that dreamy! Your wedding also doubles as a once-in-a-lifetime trip for your people, which makes it so much more meaningful. Plus, let’s be real… nothing says romance quite like Italy. I swear the air even feels a little softer there. And the food? Every reception I’ve photographed in Italy has turned into the most joyful, delicious feast, with guests lingering over courses late into the night. It’s a vibe I’ll never get tired of capturing.

Best Regions for an Italy Destination Wedding

Tuscany

Tuscany, you had me at hello. Rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and sunsets that basically look like the sky is blushing for you, what’s not to love? If you’re dreaming of a countryside villa or a historic estate where your whole wedding crew can hang out together, this is it. Want a little city sophistication too? Florence is just around the corner. Honestly, Tuscany has my heart, the light there is different, and those vineyard portraits? Always a win.

Amalfi Coast

Coastal luxury + Italian glam = Amalfi Coast, obviously. Positano, Ravello, Sorrento—they’re basically the Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Adele of wedding destinations. Picture this: you saying “I do” with the sea glittering behind you, that warm Mediterranean breeze messing with your hair in the best way, and all your guests thinking, how did they even find a place this perfect?! Honestly, it’s the kind of spot that makes you want to immediately call your friends and be like, guys, this is where we’re getting married.

Lake Como

Lake Como, I love you. If old-world glamour and cinematic vibes had a baby, it’d be this place. Think grand villas with sweeping staircases, gardens that look like they were painted for Instagram, and lakeside views that make you go, yep, this is it. Every shoot here feels like a movie, and every sunset has me whispering to myself, how is this real life? If you’re after luxury, romance, and a little jaw-drop-worthy drama, Lake Como is your playground. (Also, check out my blog on How to Plan a Dreamy Lake Como Destination Wedding!)

Rome & Florence

History, culture, chic city vibes…Rome and Florence are basically the dream team of Italian cities. Portraits by the Colosseum? Check. Vows in a Renaissance garden? Double check. Al fresco dining with centuries-old architecture all around? Yes, please. These cities are my jam because every cobblestone street, every piazza, every little corner just adds more story to your photos. It’s like the city itself is rooting for your love story.

Venice

If you’re looking for something a little different, Venice is IT! Canals, gondolas, and historic palazzos create a setting that feels like no other place in the world. And bonus, the light reflecting off the water at sunset? Absolutely unbeatable for portraits. It’s whimsical, romantic, and such a fun place to get creative with photos.

A bride in a white gown holding a bouquet stands next to a groom in a black suit and bow tie in a corridor with tan walls and wooden beams for a destination wedding in Italy

Best Luxury Venues in Italy for a Destination Wedding

If you’re planning a destination wedding in Italy, the venue is everything. Italy has no shortage of jaw-dropping spots, but here are some of the most iconic luxury venues.

A glamorous 16th-century villa right on the lake. Think gilded interiors, sprawling gardens, and boat arrivals that look like a scene from a movie. Every time I see a couple arrive by boat here, I get goosebumps, it feels straight out of a Vogue editorial.

Villa Cimbrone (Amalfi Coast)

Famous for its “Infinity Terrace” overlooking the Mediterranean. The gardens here are unreal, and the sunsets are honestly some of the best in Italy. I always tell couples: plan to sneak away at sunset! The sky melts into the sea in the most magical way, and your portraits will be unforgettable.

Castello di Vincigliata (Tuscany)

A medieval castle just outside Florence. Perfect if you want fairytale vibes mixed with rolling hills and candlelit courtyards. There’s something about this place that makes every wedding feel timeless, I can already picture golden-hour photos against the castle walls!

Belmond Hotel Caruso (Ravello)

A cliffside luxury hotel with infinity pools and panoramic sea views. It’s pure Amalfi glam! I can’t stop imagining how gorgeous a candlelit reception under the stars would look here. It’s giving ultimate Italian romance!

Borgo Santo Pietro (Tuscany)

A five-star countryside estate with vineyards, gardens, and Michelin-star dining. It feels like your own private slice of Italian heaven. I love that couples can turn their wedding into a whole weekend here—imagine a rehearsal dinner in the gardens and a farewell brunch overlooking the vineyards.

Villa Erba (Lake Como)

Elegant, historic, and right on the lake. This villa is perfect for larger weddings that still want that old-world glamour. The scale of the place is breathtaking! Every corner is photo-worthy, from the staircases to the gardens. It’s truly a showstopper!

Pro tip: Many of these venues allow you to book multi-day events—so you can host your welcome dinner, wedding, and farewell brunch all in one unforgettable spot. Trust me, as a destination wedding photographer, I love this setup because it means your whole story unfolds in one dreamy location!

A bride and groom stand outdoors facing each other, the bride holding a bouquet and wearing a long white gown, with greenery and a stone wall in the background.

Tips for Choosing Your Italy Destination Wedding Venue

Picking your venue is one of the most exciting parts of planning an Italy destination wedding, but it’s also the decision that sets the tone for your whole experience. Here are a few things I always remind my couples to think about:

Think guest-friendly. Villas or resorts that allow on-site stays make travel way easier (and way more fun). I love it when everyone stays together! It turns your wedding into a big Italian vacation with your favorite people. In Tuscany, for example, many estates double as both your venue and your guests’ accommodations. Late-night wine by the pool? Yes, please!
Check the logistics. Some venues feel straight out of a fairytale but can be tricky to reach. Ask yourself: Is there an airport or train station nearby? Will guests need shuttles or boats to get there? On the Amalfi Coast, for example, many couples arrange private transfers or boats. It adds to the experience, but you’ll want to plan ahead so nobody’s scrambling.
Consider photography. Look for venues with variety, gardens, terraces, courtyards, vineyards—so your gallery feels dynamic. As your destination wedding photographer, I love scouting venues where we can sneak away for golden-hour portraits in one spot, grab dreamy night shots in another, and capture those in-between candid moments with epic backdrops.
Think about the vibe. Do you want glam coastal views? Amalfi Coast is your girl. Old-world luxury? Lake Como. A cozy countryside feel with room for guests to stay? Tuscany. Italy has so many flavors of romance—lean into the one that feels the most like you two.

Work with the pros. Planners and photographers who know Italy can guide you toward hidden gems. Some of my favorite spots aren’t even on Google searches—they’re tucked-away villas or vineyar

A long outdoor dining table with wooden chairs, set for a meal under trees decorated with string lights and a white runner with greenery for a destination wedding in Italy

How Much Does an Italy Destination Wedding Cost?

Let’s talk numbers, because I know this is always the big question! The cost of an Italy destination wedding really depends on your region, guest count, and how luxurious you want to go but here’s a ballpark breakdown of what most couples invest:

Venues & Villas

$12,000–$35,000+ for a weekend villa rental, luxury hotel, or historic estate. Many Tuscan villas include guest accommodations, which makes them a great value. Amalfi Coast venues tend to be higher, while smaller towns in Umbria or Puglia can be more affordable.

Catering & Bar

$160–$375 per guest depending on the menu and wine pairings. Multi-course meals with pasta, mains, dessert, and late-night bites are common. Bar packages with Italian wine, prosecco, and cocktails may add another $80–$150 per person.

Photography & Videography

$6,000–$15,000+ for multi-day coverage. Since Italy weddings are often full weekends, most couples choose coverage for welcome parties, adventures, and the big day itself.

Planning & Coordination

$5,000–$12,000+ depending on whether you hire a local planner, fly in your own, or book full-service design + coordination. Destination weddings are complex, so a planner is worth every penny.

Floral & Design

$4,000–$15,000 depending on your vision. Think lush ceremony arches, tablescapes with candles and greenery, and hanging installations for a wow factor.

Music & Entertainment

$2,000–$8,000 for live musicians, DJs, or even full bands. In Italy, string quartets are popular for ceremonies, and many couples splurge on live music for receptions.

Guest Accommodations

$250–$650 per night for boutique hotels, villas, or resorts. Many couples suggest several options for guests at different price points.

Transportation

$1,500–$5,000 for shuttles, private transfers, or even boats (yes, Lake Como boat exits are a thing!).

Stationery & Paper Goods

$1,000–$4,000 for invitations, menus, signage, and day-of details. Shipping internationally may add extra costs.

Hair & Makeup

$500–$1,500 for bridal hair and makeup, plus $250–$500 per additional person if you’re covering bridesmaids or family members.

Legal Fees & Permits

$500–$2,000 for translated documents, notary fees, or location permits (especially for national monuments or historic sites). Many couples avoid this by doing the legal paperwork at home.

Extras & Experiences

$1,000–$5,000+ for activities like wine tours in Chianti, pizza-making classes in Naples, or a private boat ride on Lake Como.

On average, most couples spend $45,000–$90,000 on an Italy destination wedding, though you can scale up or down depending on guest count and luxury level. Still, when you think about the fact that it’s your wedding and a once-in-a-lifetime trip with your people, it feels so worth it!

Formal garden with manicured hedges, gravel paths, and topiary bushes, with a building visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

A water fountain with a statue of two figures in the center, surrounded by arched streams of water, in a garden setting.

A bride and groom walk along a gravel path through a neatly manicured garden with mountains visible in the background.

A bride and groom in formal wedding attire sit together on outdoor stone steps, looking at each other, with a historic building and greenery in the background.

Legal vs. Symbolic Ceremonies in Italy

Here’s something a lot of couples don’t realize: getting legally married in Italy can be a little complicated. Some regions require residency, others ask for translated paperwork and multiple office visits.

That’s why so many couples choose to do the legal paperwork at home and have a symbolic ceremony in Italy. It takes the pressure off and lets you focus on the celebration itself.

Pro tip: If you do want a legal ceremony in Italy, start the process early and work with a local planner who knows the system!

A couple holding hands walks along a stone path bordered by a low wall, with trees and distant hills visible under a clear sky.

Best Time of Year for an Italy Destination Wedding

Italy is gorgeous year-round, but the vibe changes with the seasons. Here’s what I’ve noticed (and loved!) in each:

Spring (April–June)

Mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists make spring such a dreamy time for an Italy destination wedding. Tuscany is especially magical with all the vineyards turning green. I swear the hills look like they’ve been painted. I also love Amalfi in the spring because the air feels fresh and everything is bursting with color.

Summer (July–August)

It’s peak season, which means hot temps and big crowds. But if you’re the type of couple who thrives on energy, this season is electric. Amalfi and Lake Como are buzzing with life, and the long daylight hours mean endless time for portraits. Personally, I always remind my couples to plan evening ceremonies in summer so we can chase that golden Italian light. It’s worth the wait!

Fall (September–October)

Harvest season is hands down one of my favorite times for a destination wedding in Italy. The vineyards turn golden, the weather is that perfect not-too-hot, not-too-cold balance, and the food + wine are unbeatable this time of year.

Winter (November–February)

Winter weddings in Italy are underrated and so romantic. Imagine candlelit dinners in Florence, snowy portraits in the Dolomites, or cozy villa receptions with roaring fireplaces. It’s also more budget-friendly, which means you can splurge on experiences or decor. I love winter weddings because they feel intimate, like a secret celebration tucked away from the world!

A bride in a white dress and veil stands beside a vintage convertible car while a groom in a suit sits in the driver’s seat outside a stone and stucco building for italy destination wedding

Guest Experience & Travel Tips for Italy Destination Weddings

Your wedding doubles as a vacation for your guests, so make it unforgettable!

Accommodations: In Tuscany, couples often rent a villa where everyone can stay together—hello, built-in slumber party vibes. On the Amalfi Coast, boutique hotels overlooking the water are always a hit.
Transportation: Consider shuttles for guests on winding coastal roads or arrange private boats for a Lake Como cruise.
Activities: Think wine tours in Chianti, pizza-making classes in Naples, or gondola rides in Venice. These little touches turn your wedding into an experience.

Welcome Bags: Include Italian goodies like olive oil, limoncello, biscotti, or even cute local maps for exploring.

Photography Tips for Your Italy Destination Wedding

Your photos are how you’ll relive every magical moment, so here are my go-to tips as a photographer:

Plan around golden hour. Italy’s sunsets are legendary, soft, glowy, and absolutely romantic. I always build in time for you two to sneak away right as the light hits its peak. Trust me, those ten minutes of portraits will be some of your favorites in the entire gallery. (And yes, I’ll be the one pulling you out of the dance floor when the light is just right!)
Soak in the streets. Don’t be afraid to wander into cobblestone alleys, bustling piazzas, or vineyards. Those unplanned strolls often create the most iconic photos!
Think beyond the wedding day. Destination weddings are multi-day experiences, which is why I always recommend multi-day coverage. Your welcome dinner, adventures (like a wine tour in Tuscany or a boat ride on Lake Como), and farewell brunch are all part of the story. When you look back, you won’t just see “the wedding,” you’ll see the whole celebration unfold.

Trust your photographer. This is where I come in! I'll scout the secret corners, grab you when the light turns golden, and keep one eye on candid laughter while we nail those editorial frames. You'll feel the day in your photos! My goal is to create a gallery that feels timeless, vibrant, and uniquely you. At the end of the day, I want your photos to feel like art but also like home!

Outdoor courtyard with round tables set for an event, white tablecloths, wooden chairs, and candlelit centerpieces under large trees for an Italy destination wedding

Having a Destination Wedding in Italy? Book me as your Destination Wedding Photographer!

A destination wedding in Italy is the perfect mix of adventure, and romance. From Tuscan villas to Amalfi Coast cliffs to glamorous Lake Como, Italy offers a backdrop for every love story! Add in incredible food, wine, and unforgettable guest experiences, and it’s easy to see why Italy is one of the most sought-after wedding destinations in the world.

If your heart is pulling you toward Italy, I’d love to help capture your story there and be your destination wedding photographer! From scouting locations to making the most of the Italian light, I’ll be by your side to make sure every moment is documented beautifully! See more of my work on Pinterest and contact me here!

Italy Destination Wedding Guide: Best Regions, Venues, and Photography Tips