January 7, 2025
Destination Wedding Planner
· Wedding Planner Frankfurt
· Wedding Planner Cincinnati
Destination Wedding in Italy
Destination weddings in Italy have been all over our Pinterest boards and Instagrams in the past year. Rightfully so, because done correctly they are stunning and most important: FUN! Now you just got engaged and are thinking about hosting your wedding in the country of pizza and pasta? What a perfect timing – read on to get the most important information all put into one article.
Are you looking for a planner to plan your destination wedding? Contact me so that we can connect.
wedding locations in italy
Italy is the epitome of sunshine, fun and family - what more could you want at your wedding?
WESTEND WEDDINGS
Italy consists of approximately 20 regions that include Sicily and Sardinia, the two islands. Most of the couples I speak to know of Tuscany and Lake Como (which is not exactly a region) but knowing more about what to look out for might help you find some venues that are lesser known.
The Lakes
What I think is most important is to factor in heat when planning your wedding in Italy. The more southern you go, the hotter it will be. I would recommend sticking to regions like Lombardy, Piemonte or Tuscany during peak summer and going South when you are looking to have your wedding more towards autumn.
Lake Como and Lake Garda, the lesser known of the two laked but equally beautiful, are located in Lombardy and the surrounding regions. They offer fantastic views, a nice climate and grand venues such as the famous Villa Balbiano, or its smaller sister venue, Villa Balbianello. Keep in mind that getting around the area is difficult and you absolutely must rent a car to get around.
The Countryside
Italy’s countryside is nothing but absolutely stunning and if you like overlooking mountains and vineyards, this is the place for you. The most obvious choice is usually Tuscany but don’t sleep on other regions! Umbria, Emilia-Romagna and Lazio also have amazing spots you can get married at. Tenutas often have their own vineyards and can make wine which is amazing for taste testings with your guests. Borgos usually consist of a few buildings often built around a castle. Tenuta di Artimino or Borgo Divino are just two of the many venues you can choose from in the Italian countryside.
Picture: Borgo Divino
Ocean Views
If you want to look out on the ocean while saying your „I Dos“, Italy has a lot to offer. From the Italian Riviera down to areas like the Amalfi Coast, you can find venues everywhere. Often times they are located on a cliff which makes the view even more gorgeous. While the Amalfi Coast is more exclusive with towns like Positano and Ravello, the Italian Riviera is equally beautiful. On Italy’s East coast I would opt for Puglia because of their abundance of Masserias, traditional farmhouse that can also be luxurious wedding venues. Masseria Calderisi is only one example that offers architecure often more associated with Portugal or Spain.
The Dolomites
Lesser known but also an option are The Dolomites. I see it more and more that couples are choosing to elope in the mountains and the stunning scenery. Whether you are opting for summer or winter here – the views are going to be exceptional and I assure you that every wedding photographer will beg to shoot your wedding!
tips and tricks for your italian wedding
1. Get. A. Car. Italy is easy to fly into and has many airports but after having landed, taxis are expensive and driving on your own is a lot more fun anyways. Stop at farms and do a wine tasting or simply get lost in historic cities because you have the freedom to drive wherever.
2. Tax: The standard VAT rate in Italy is 22%. You will have to pay that for most venues and vendors, however some offer a reduced tax rate of 10%. If this is not specified in your quote, ask about that beforehand!
3. SIAE: Adding onto the standard tax, you will come across SIAE very quickly when booking your DJ or band. This tax can be seen as a licence for legally playing music at your wedding and is usually paid by the client of the event (couple, guests, hosts). It is similar to music royalties and the amount depends on your guest count, the type of the event and the event itself.
4. Italian vendors: The Italian planning website LaLista is a great tool for finding local vendors. However, as wedding planners we have a great network of local and international vendors who we have worked with and know are reliable and professional.
5. Commission: Unlike other countries in Europe, Italian venues and vendors will often offer commissions for wedding planners. If you are working with a planner, ask them how they handle that. I always forward the commission to my couples.
your italian dream wedding
I hope this article gave you a good first overview of what to look out for when planning your destination wedding in Italy. I am currently planning weddings for couples in 2025 and 2026 and would love to add on your wedding as well.
Take a look at my Destination Wedding Planning Package to see how I can be of help with planning your dream wedding. If I could convince you to get married in Italy or you have any questions, feel free to send an enquiry so that we can talk more about your options. I am looking forward to meeting you!