So, you’re dreaming of saying “I do” with a backdrop of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable cuisine? A destination wedding in Italy is more than a trend; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends romance, adventure, and la dolce vita into the start of your marriage.
As videographers at The Ember Edit, we’ve had the privilege of capturing love stories across Italy’s most stunning regions. We’ve also explored on our own, so we’ve gathered key insights to help you plan. From the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the glamorous shores of Lake Como, here’s our guide to finding your perfect Italian wedding locale.
For the Adventurous Souls: The Dolomites
If your idea of romance involves epic mountain vistas, crisp alpine air, and a sense of raw, natural beauty, then the Dolomites are your paradise. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a playground for couples who love to explore, and it provides a truly epic backdrop.
Why Choose the Dolomites for your Destination Wedding in Italy?
Imagine your wedding photos and film set against jagged peaks and emerald lakes. The light here is truly magical, especially during the golden hour, because the alpenglow creates a warm, ethereal glow—something we as videographers absolutely love to capture. So, if you’re after an unforgettable setting for an intimate, adventurous celebration, this is it.
Must-Visit Spots & Stays:
- Lake Braies: This iconic, crystal-clear lake is a must-see. We recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and take a peaceful rowboat out on the water. Plus, you can often get the dock all to yourself early in the morning for a private bridal shoot before it opens to the public!
- Seceda & Alpe di Siusi: Accessible by gondola from the charming town of Ortisei, these high-altitude meadows offer some of the most iconic views in all of Italy. We stayed at Villa Stella in Ortisei—a cozy, welcoming hotel with the huge bonus of a parking garage, which is a rarity in town! And it was within walking distance of the Alpe di Siusi gondola. Pro Tip: If you want to visit different peaks, consider a 3-day gondola pass to save money compared to individual tickets!
- Fuel Your Adventure: After a day of hiking, head to Turonda in Ortisei. Trust us on this—their pizza is SO GOOD!! It’s the perfect reward after a long day of exploration.
A Dolomites wedding is for the couple who wants their love story framed by nature’s most dramatic masterpiece. For current info on gondola hours and hiking trails, check the official Val Gardena tourism website.
A Dolomites wedding is for the couple who wants their love story framed by nature’s most dramatic masterpiece. This site has current info on gondola hours, hiking trails, weather, and other local amenities for your guests: https://www.valgardena.it/en/
For the Classic Romantics: Tuscany
When you picture a classic destination wedding in Italy, you’re probably thinking of Tuscany. This region is the heart of Renaissance art, world-renowned wine, and those dreamy, rolling hills dotted with cypress trees.
The Allure of a Tuscan Destination Wedding in Italy
Tuscany offers that picture-perfect, romantic aesthetic without the strenuous hiking of the Dolomites. Instead, it’s about leisurely wine tours, exploring medieval hilltop towns, and soaking in a rich, cultural history.
We had the pleasure of filming at Villa Catignano, and it was absolutely dreamy. This is the quintessential Tuscan villa experience for couples seeking timeless elegance.
Cultural Gems to Explore Before and After Your Destination Wedding in Italy
While the Tuscan countryside is dreamy, the region’s true magic lies in the incredible diversity of its cities and villages. From world-renowned art capitals to hidden hilltop gems, here are the essential spots to explore with your wedding party.
The Crown Jewels: Florence & Siena
- Florence (Firenze): The Cradle of the Renaissance
- Why Visit: This is the artistic heart of Italy. You can marvel at the architectural wonder of the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), cross the historic Ponte Vecchio with its iconic jewelry shops, and see Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery. The city is an open-air museum, so every corner offers a new masterpiece.
- Perfect For: Art lovers, history buffs, and any couple who wants to be immersed in breathtaking Renaissance beauty.
- Siena: The Gothic Masterpiece
- Why Visit: Siena feels like a step back in time with its stunning, shell-shaped Piazza del Campo and the intricate, black-and-white striped Siena Cathedral (Duomo). The city’s medieval character is perfectly preserved, and the view from the top of the Torre del Mangia is unforgettable.
- Perfect For: Couples and guests who adore Gothic architecture and want to experience the passion of a city with deep, historic rivalries.
The Enchanting Hill Towns: San Gimignano, Pienza & Montepulciano
- San Gimignano: The Medieval Manhattan
- Why Visit: Famous for its surviving medieval “skyscrapers,” San Gimignano offers a skyline like no other. It’s a perfectly preserved UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Plus, it’s home to award-winning gelato at Gelateria Dondoli!
- Perfect For: History lovers, photographers, and anyone wanting those iconic, towering Tuscan views.
- Pienza: The Ideal Renaissance Town
- Why Visit: This town is a masterpiece of Renaissance urban planning, commissioned by Pope Pius II. It’s perched on a hill overlooking the iconic Val d’Orcia, with perfectly manicured streets and delicious pecorino cheese shops on every corner.
- Perfect For: Foodies and photographers. The rolling, cypress-lined hills surrounding Pienza are the postcard-perfect image of Tuscany that every couple dreams of capturing.
- Montepulciano: The Wine Lover’s Peak
- Why Visit: This high-altitude town is famous for its robust Vino Nobile wine. You can tour ancient wine cellars carved deep into the city’s foundations, and the sweeping vistas from its steep streets are absolutely breathtaking.
- Perfect For: Wine-loving couples. But be prepared for a climb—the charming, steep streets lead to incredible rewards at the top.
The Hidden Gems: Lucca & The Maremma
- Lucca: The City of a Hundred Churches
- Why Visit: Encircled by massive, tree-lined Renaissance walls, Lucca is a unique and enchanting city. You can rent bikes and ride along the top of the walls for a truly memorable experience. Meanwhile, its cobblestone streets are home to numerous beautiful churches and a lively atmosphere.
- Perfect For: Families and guests looking for a flat, easy-to-navigate city with a relaxed and romantic atmosphere.
- The Maremma: Tuscany’s Wild Side
- Why Visit: For a break from the hills, the Maremma region offers a wild, rustic coastline, natural thermal hot springs (like Saturnia’s famous cascades), and a more untamed landscape. It’s a completely different, but equally captivating, side of Tuscany.
- Perfect For: Adventurous couples who want to mix a countryside wedding with a day at the hot springs or a visit to the sea.
For the Luxury Lovers: Lake Como
Synonymous with glamour and old-world charm, Lake Como has long been a magnet for those seeking a sophisticated and luxurious escape.
Why Lake Como is a Dream Venue
If your vision involves boating on serene blue waters, staying in a stunning villa right on the shoreline, and rubbing shoulders with a touch of celebrity glamour, Lake Como is your spot. The atmosphere is effortlessly elegant and incredibly romantic.
Experiencing the Lake Como Lifestyle
The Towns: Exploring the charming towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio is a delight, because each has its own unique character, colorful buildings, and exquisite dining.
The Villas: The historic villas, like Villa Balbianello and Villa Carlotta, are wedding venues unlike any other, with immaculate gardens and breathtaking water views.
No matter which region calls to you, a destination Italy wedding is an incredible adventure. The key is to choose a location that reflects your unique love story and personalities.
Four Common Italy Wedding Mistakes to Avoid
While planning your Italian fairytale, it’s easy to get swept away by the vision. But a little practical planning is what ensures your day is as seamless as it is beautiful. Based on our experience, here are the top mistakes to watch out for:
1. Underestimating the Legalities or Travel Logistics.
- The Mistake: Assuming you can just show up and get married. Italy has specific residency requirements and paperwork. Also, not considering travel time between airports, hotels, and venues can create major stress.
- The Fix: Research the legal process early! Many couples opt for a symbolic ceremony in Italy to simplify things. And always factor in at least an extra travel day for your guests to acclimate. Here are the official requirements for getting married in Italy.
2. Not Hiring a Local Wedding Planner.
- The Mistake: Thinking you can plan a wedding from abroad without on-the-ground support.
- The Fix: A local planner is your greatest investment. They navigate language barriers, negotiate with vendors, and solve problems you didn’t see coming. Find a vetted wedding planner in Italy here.
3. Ignoring the Guest Experience.
- The Mistake: Choosing a remote, beautiful venue without considering your guests’ comfort, mobility, or budget.
- The Fix: Create a detailed “Welcome Guide” with travel tips and accommodation options. So, think about transportation from the airport and whether that stunning rifugio is accessible for elderly grandparents.
4. Forgetting About the “Shoulder Seasons.”
- The Mistake: Only considering a summer wedding, which is peak season with peak prices and crowds.
- The Fix: The “shoulder seasons” of late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer glorious weather, fewer crowds, and more vendor availability. A September wedding in Tuscany, for instance, is absolutely magical.
Planning a wedding in Italy is a journey, and being aware of these common pitfalls is the first step to avoiding them.
Want an even deeper dive? In our next blog post, “Beyond the Venue: My Italy Travel Diary & Mistakes to Avoid,” I’ll get personal and share more from our own travels—from navigating Italian roads to cultural faux pas and the one thing we wish we’d packed. You won’t want to miss it!
Ready to start planning your cinematic Italian love story? Contact us to learn how we can capture every magical moment!
All images and video content are owned by Andrew Millett. Please email info@theemberedit.com to use any photo or video clips.
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