Dreaming of saying “I do” in Italy? Learning how to get married in Italy transforms your wedding from a single-day event into an unforgettable international experience. Italy offers couples a perfect blend of romance, history, and some of the most stunning wedding locations in the world. As a destination wedding photographer who has beautiful Italian weddings, I’m here to guide you through everything you need to know about planning your dream wedding in Italy.
Why Choose Italy for Your Destination Wedding?
Here’s a surprising fact: While the average U.S. wedding costs $50,000+, you can host an unforgettable Italian celebration for similar or even lower costs. Plus, you’re not just getting a wedding – you’re giving your guests a vacation experience they’ll never forget.
Think about it: Instead of a one-day celebration at your local venue, you’re treating your loved ones to:
- Multiple days of celebration in a historic setting
- An immersive cultural experience
- Incredible food and wine
- Stunning photo opportunities
- A European vacation alongside your wedding
People take trips all the time. Why not make one of their trips be to celebrate your wedding day with you. You will be surprised how many people will jump at that opportunity.
Wedding Costs Across Italian Regions
Let’s break down what you can expect to spend in different regions:
- Amalfi Coast: $30,000 – $100,000
- Tuscany: $25,000 – $80,000
- Rome: $20,000 – $70,000
- Florence: $25,000 – $80,000
- Venice: $30,000 – $90,000
- Lake Como: $30,000 – $100,000
Remember: These ranges reflect 2025-2026 pricing for full wedding packages. Many couples choose to elope for less, while others invest over $100,000 for grand celebrations.
How to Get Married in Italy: Legal Requirements for Getting Married for Your Destination Wedding
If you’re wondering how to get married in Italy, one of the first things you need to know is the required documentation. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Valid passports
- Birth certificates with apostille
- Nulla Osta (declaration of freedom to marry)
- Previous marriage documentation (if applicable)
Pro tip: Many couples legally marry in their home state before their destination wedding to simplify paperwork.
Top Destinations and Wedding Venues in Italy
When considering how to get married in Italy, the first step is to choose the perfect venue. You’ll find a wide variety of options depending on the region of Italy you’re interested in. Below are a few of my favorite luxury venues in Italy.
Luxury Wedding Venues in Lake Como
- Villa d’Este: Historic luxury with a floating pool
- Villa Balbianello: Famous for film locations and terraced gardens
- Hotel Villa Cipressi: Stunning botanical gardens and lake views
- Villa Erba: Elegant 19th-century villa right on the water in Cernobbio
The Best Tuscany Wedding Venues
- Castello di Casole: 10th-century castle on vast grounds
- Villa La Foce: Renaissance gardens and historic charm
- Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco: Luxury wine estate
- Villa Mussio: Timeless style with a modern twist in the hilly countryside of Tuscany’s Maremma overlooking the sea
Amalfi Coast Wedding Venues
- Belmond Hotel Caruso: 11th-century palazzo with infinity pool
- Villa Cimbrone: Famous for its Infinity Terrace
- Villa Treville: Boutique hotel recognized for its cliffside setting and ultra-luxurious suites
- Hotel San Pietro: Private beach access
Wedding Venues in Rome
- Villa Miani: Hilltop villa overlooking Rome
- Villa Aurelia: 17th-century villa with panoramic views
- Castello di Tor Crescenza – Medieval castle just outside Rome
Venice Wedding Venues
- Aman Venice – 16th-century palazzo on Grand Canal
- Hotel Cipriani – Private island luxury resort
- Palazzo Pisani Moretta – Gothic palace with Grand Canal views
- Hotel Danieli – Former Doge’s residence near St. Mark’s
Best Seasons for Weddings in Italy
As you figure out how to get married in Italy, keep in mind that seasons like spring and fall are ideal for outdoor ceremonies.
- Spring (March-May): Mild weather, blooming flowers, fewer tourists
- Summer (June-August): Perfect for outdoor celebrations, longest daylight
- Fall (September-November): Harvest season, comfortable temperatures
- Winter (December-February): Romantic atmosphere, ideal for intimate indoor venues
Why Choose a U.S.-Based Wedding Photographer for Your Italian Wedding
When planning your Italian destination wedding, you might wonder: “Why hire a U.S. photographer when there are local photographers in Italy?” It’s a valid question that deserves a thoughtful answer.
The Importance of Clear Communication
Your wedding photographer will be by your side throughout your entire celebration, capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments that you’ll treasure forever. While Italy is known for its warm hospitality, language barriers can present real challenges. Many vendors speak limited English or none at all – something I’ve experienced firsthand at numerous Italian weddings.
Your photographer needs to:
- Guide you through poses naturally and comfortably
- Help coordinate with other vendors and family members
- Understand the nuances of your family dynamics
- Capture emotional moments and conversations as they unfold
- Navigate multiple locations efficiently
Beyond the Language Barrier
When you choose a U.S.-based photographer, you’re getting someone who:
- Understands your cultural references and traditions
- Can easily communicate with your English-speaking guests
- Knows how to capture those subtle family moments and inside jokes
- Can help guide you through the entire planning process, not just the wedding day
- Provides a seamless experience from initial consultation to final album delivery
A Partner in Your Planning Journey
Working with a U.S.-based photographer means you can:
- Meet in person before the wedding
- Communicate easily during the planning phase (my favorite part!)
- Share your vision without language barriers
- Have peace of mind knowing exactly what to expect
- Rely on someone who understands both American and Italian wedding traditions
Remember: Your wedding photos are one of the few tangible elements you’ll have after your wedding. While traveling with a U.S.-based photographer might seem like an added expense, the value of clear communication and cultural understanding on your wedding day is priceless.
Destination Client Review
“Even beyond the thoughtfully composed and delicately edited artwork that is all the photos she captured, Maggie is just such a kind-hearted, relationally-oriented, fastidious, sweet soul. She truly went ABOVE AND BEYOND in her role as a photographer, eager to share her expertise in the planning of our wedding months before and the co-ordination of it day of! On top of that, we had a destination wedding, and she very professionally handled all the travel and other considerations associated with that. And again, HER PHOTOS! Every detail and moment she captured truly encapsulated the magic we felt on that special day. We are so grateful that we have these keepsakes to remember it just as we felt it on that day for years to come.”
Chederli + Jordan
How to Get Married in Italy: Navigating Travel and Transportation
Traveling to Italy for your destination wedding doesn’t have to be complicated. Knowing how to get married in Italy goes hand-in-hand with understanding how to navigate the country’s transportation system. Whether you’re traveling to a remote Tuscan vineyard or a charming coastal venue, there are various options for getting around Italy.
International and Domestic Flights
When traveling from the United States to Italy, there are several major international airports to consider: Rome Fiumicino (FCO), Milan Malpensa (MXP), and Venice Marco Polo (VCE). However, for some travelers, flying into a larger European hub like London Heathrow (LHR), Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), or Frankfurt (FRA) may offer more affordable options.
Flight Tracking Tips for Your Destination Wedding in Italy
To stay on top of the best flight deals for your Italian wedding, tools like Google Flights, Going, and PanFlights are excellent resources. They help track prices, send notifications, and offer discounts on major airlines flying into Italy.
Traveling Within Italy
Once you’re in Italy, you’ll need a strategy for getting around. Here’s a quick rundown of transportation options:
- High-Speed Trains: The Frecciarossa and Italo trains connect major cities like Rome, Florence, Milan, and Naples. These are a fast and comfortable way to travel, especially for couples planning a multi-city wedding itinerary.
- Regional Trains: For shorter trips and exploring smaller towns, regional trains offer scenic and affordable travel. You can easily book tickets through Trenitalia or Rail Europe.
- Domestic Flights: If you need to cover large distances within Italy quickly, consider domestic flights. Alitalia and Transavia are common choices for air travel between cities.
Exploring Italy by Car
If you prefer exploring Italy at your own pace, renting a car can be a great option. However, be mindful of ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in cities like Florence and Rome. Additionally, you’ll need an International Driver’s Permit to legally drive in Italy. These can be obtained in your home country before your trip and typically cost between $20-$30.
Alternative Transportation Options
- Scooters and Motorcycles: Renting a scooter is a fun way to zip around cities like Rome or Florence. Be sure to have the proper license and familiarize yourself with local traffic laws.
- Boats and Ferries: If you’re planning a wedding on the coast, consider a boat ride. Venice, the Amalfi Coast, and Lake Como all offer scenic ferry and boat rentals.
Public Transportation
For getting around within cities, Italy has an efficient public transportation system, including metros, buses, and trams. Be sure to check the schedules for local transportation and buy tickets in advance to avoid fines.
Top Luxury Wedding Vendors in Italy
Once you’ve decided how to get married in Italy, the next step is to ensure every detail of your celebration is handled by the best professionals. Italy is known for its luxury wedding vendors who specialize in making your dream wedding come to life. Whether you’re planning an intimate affair or an extravagant celebration, these trusted vendors will provide you with the expertise and service needed to create an unforgettable experience.
Luxury Wedding Photographers & Videographers
Capturing your wedding day in Italy is an art, and choosing the right photographer and videographer is essential. Here are some top luxury wedding photographers and videographers that can help you preserve every magical moment of your destination wedding:
- Stepping Stones Photography – Based in the United States, they specialize in destination weddings and have extensive experience capturing weddings in Italy’s breathtaking settings.
- Nova Film Co. – A U.S.-based video team known for their cinematic approach to wedding videography, with a focus on capturing emotional and romantic moments.
- MDM Wedding Videography – Based in Italy, MDM specializes in high-end wedding cinematography.
Wedding Florists in Italy
The floral arrangements at your Italian wedding can make a significant impact on the overall atmosphere. These top florists can design everything from stunning bouquets to elaborate floral installations:
- Lake Como Florist | Lada Fiori – Based in Lake Como
- Florist Amalfi Coast – Based in Amalfi Coast
Wedding Makeup Artists & Hairstylists
Look your best on your wedding day with the help of Italy’s top makeup artists and hairstylists. Whether you want a natural look or a more dramatic style, these professionals will ensure you’re stunning for every photo:
- Beauty Livery – A renowned makeup artist and hairstylist based in Capri and the Amalfi Coast.
- BLBS Management – Operating out of Lake Como, they offer luxury beauty services for brides.
- SAMANTHA PRETTO – Based in Tuscany
Wedding Planners & Coordinators
Planning a destination wedding in Italy can be challenging, especially if you’re organizing everything from abroad. The following wedding planners are experts in managing all aspects of your celebration:
- Tara Skinner Events – Based in the United States, they specialize in destination weddings in Italy, providing full-service planning and coordination to ensure everything runs smoothly.
- Marigiulia Sella Weddings – A premier Italian wedding planner based in Northern Italy.
- Exclusive Italy Weddings – With a vast network of vendors and locations across Italy, they offer comprehensive planning services to help you create a seamless wedding experience.
Luxury Wedding Rentals & Decor
From lavish wedding rentals to high-end decor, these companies provide everything needed to transform your Italian wedding venue into a luxurious dream setting:
- Tableset Luxury Rentals – Located in Northern Italy, they offer a selection of fine tableware, linens, and furniture to elevate your wedding’s aesthetic.
- Wedding Chairs & Co. – Based on the Amalfi Coast, they specialize in elegant wedding rentals, providing seating and furniture.
- Italian Wedding Designer – Known for their stylish decor, they provide an array of luxury rental items, including decor, lighting, and seating.
Boat Rentals for Your Italian Wedding
If your wedding is taking place by the water, consider adding a boat rental for an unforgettable experience. These services offer luxury boats and yachts for your pre- or post-wedding celebrations:
- Cantiere Nautico Cadenazzi – Specializing in boat rentals on Lake Como, they offer a variety of luxury yachts for a stylish, memorable wedding experience.
- Positano Boats – Located on the Amalfi Coast, they provide boat rentals for couples looking to cruise the Mediterranean in style.
How to Get Married in Italy with Ease: Next Steps
Now that you know how to get married in Italy and how to travel around the country, you’re one step closer to making your dream wedding a reality. From determining your guest count to choosing the best transportation options, these tips will help ensure a smooth and memorable experience. As a wedding photographer, I am always ready to help couples capture the magic of their Italian wedding, whether it’s an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration.
Want to learn more about how to get married in Italy and preserve your memories through stunning photography? Let’s chat today about how I can help you capture your beautiful wedding in Italy.
As a friendly reminder, some of the photos throughout this blog are credited to other photographers found on Pinterest. Thank you for your aid in this publication.
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