These Are The Most Gorgeous Italy Wedding Venues Out There
A destination wedding fosters the ultimate sense of indulgence, and in that sense, these beloved Italy wedding venues do not disappoint! From the waterside villas surrounding George Clooney’s Lake Como turf to the countryside estates amidst the rolling hills of Tuscany to the colorful shores of the Amalfi Coast, couples who wed in Italia know a thing or two about unforgettable romance. We love the way these cities lend themselves to the feeling of togetherness, and it’s always so fun to see wedding celebrations that extend beyond a single day through group activities like cooking classes, hot air balloon rides, beach days and horseback riding to name a few. So prepare to get your wanderlust on, because these destination wedding venues are sure to get you packing your bags.
Lake Como
The Lake Como Basics
Location along the northern border of Italy, Lake Como is comprised of a handful of luxury resort towns. No doubt, you’ve heard of its most famous village, Bellagio…. where George Clooney lives. You’ve got your thinking cap on now, right!? Lake Como offers a dreamy scene for the couple who loves all things luxury. Historic villas are abundant in Baroque and Renaissance architecture, artwork and artifacts, and the glistening lake views, surrounded by the cypress tree dotted Alps, are unlike any other.
As water transport is the main method of transportation between towns, Lake Como presents a few logistical challenges you may not otherwise face. Weddings in the northern regions of Italy also tend to be a bit pricier than its southern counterparts. Though in true Italian form, far niente. If your heart is set on this storybook scene, anything is possible.
ISOLA DEL GARDA
A neo-gothic Venetian style villa, Isola del Garda is ideal for intimate destination weddings under 80 people total. The tranquility of the island and its majestic scenes, combined with the exclusive nature of private events there, lend this space to refined and elegant affairs.
Villa Del Balbianello
Above the shores of Lenno sits Villa del Balbianello – a stately 18th c mansion with a buttercream patina climbing with whimsically lush greenery. If the villa looks familiar, you may have seen it featured in films like Star Wars Episode II and James Bond: Casino Royal. The terraced gardens serve up some of the best panoramic views of Lake Como, and naturally create an unforgettable ambiance. Up to 150 guests are welcome, and there are several unique spaces across the property to choose from… leave plenty of time for portraits!
Villa Orlando Bellagio
Exceptional views live here. Villa Orlando is primely positioned on the shores of Bellagio, boasting 19th c architecture, ornate furnishings and lavish forest backdrops. This spot is truly a hidden gem and only a 10 minute walk from the shopping center of Bellagio, giving it the perfect balance of privacy and convenience.
Villa Sola Cabiati
A decadent showpiece from the Bell Epoque era, Villa Sola Cabiati is located closely to The Grand Hotel Tremezzo. Multi-day destination weddings thrive here, as the villa is available for buyouts, meaning that you and your loved ones can stay on property during a whole weekend celebration! These are some of the most sought after views in all of Italy, and the staff here speak the language of luxury oh-so-well. For couples seeking an iconic fete, dive a little deeper into this waterside dreamscape.
Villa d’Este
A former 16th century royal residence, Villa D’este knows a thing or two about first impressions. While the main building provides ample accommodations, private villas on site are another possibility for those who seek a bit more exclusivity. From prestigious ballrooms to manicured gardens to ambient terraces, Villa D’este provides unparalleled romance and a sense of A-list status that’ll leave you begging to stay.
Tuscany
The Tuscany basics
You’ve got to admit… Lake Como is hard to beat. But we suspect a little region called Tuscany says “hold my beer chianti.” The central Italian countryside is teeming with idyllic panoramic views of rolling hills, timeworn villas and soaring cypress trees – not to mention epic Florence backdrops for those that sit on the hilltops above the famous Renaissance city.
Tuscan weddings have a more relaxed feeling about them. Imagine yourself dining al fresco with twinkle lights and rustic greenery (throw in some Norah Jones tunes in the background) and you’ve got yourself a scenario much like the Italian fetes that happen all year long across the countryside. The venues we’re about to share are often the perfect situation if you envision an intimate getaway with your guests across a whole week or weekend. Many of these villas or resorts can help you organize group activities like cooking classes, horseback rides, hot air balloon excursions and more… we certainly can’t imagine a better way to spend this time with your loved ones! Except perhaps with the addition of wood-burned pizza to cap off every night 😉
Belmond Villa San Michele
Belmond Villa San Michele With fragrant lemon trees, sun-dappled gardens and a bird’s eye view of Florence and its famous Duomo, this luxury Belmond property overlooking the Arno Valley has earned its praise. Villa San Michele was actually once a 15th c monastery, and its detailed Renaissance architectural influence shows. With open courtyards, terraced garden, poolside cabanas and refined interiors, this Florentine property is an easy choice for those who appreciate culture + fine things. Not to mention that view while indulging in the best pasta Italy has to offer! Believe me. I’ve tried it.
Castello di Vincigliata
Medieval castle GOALS. The first record of this fortress was dated in 1031 – can you even wrap your head around that date?! It took me a couple tries. So much inspiration lives within these 1000 year old walls alone, and from the open air, yet enclosed courtyard to the original frescoed drawing rooms, it’s hard not to be overcome with wonder. Set atop the Tuscan hills, you can rent one of the property’s vintage Fiats and drive to Florence in less than 30 minutes! Castello di Vincigliata is all perks.
Borgo Pignano
Located in the heart of the Tuscan countryside near the towns of Volterra and San Gimignano, Borgo Pignano is almost like it’s own little village – complete with honey lab, vegetable garden, horseback riding, spa, orchard, restaurants, cocktail bar and yes… an infinity pool. Truly, a country estate has never looked so good! Couples can wed inside the 13th c Romanesque parish church if they’d like (certainly not required), and dine around the 18th c villa following. The Tuscan chic ambiance is perfect for couples who want to celebrate with their loved ones across a number of days and experience group activities together since the resort offers so many on site and is just a short drive from Florence and Siena.
Villa La Vedetta
Not far from such iconic Florentine landmarks as the Ponte Vecchio or Piazzale Michelangelo, Villa la Vedetta is one of the major Italian wedding venues you see all over Instagram and Pinterest. Beloved for its prime city views and central location, this 5-star luxury resort is petite, but iconic. With an Italian garden surrounding the Neo-Classical building and open stone terrace, the interiors offer a delightful juxtaposition that reflects the urban energy of Italy with modern artwork, Murano glass and bold colors. For couples who want the best of both worlds, Villa la Vedetta is a wonderful option to explore!
Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco
You’ll want to bookmark this scenic hamlet set along the same path that pilgrims and merchants used to travel in medieval times from Canterbury to Rome. Rosewood Castiglion Del Bosco is a historic 800 year old estate that comprises ancient castle ruins, a medieval church and a historic village, which now plays a central role in the resort. Rustic stone exteriors give this space a classic Etruscan vibe, and the 11 private luxury villas (in addition to the 23 rooms in the main estate) are overflowing with a blend of curated antiques, bespoke furnishings, inspiring textiles and modern comforts – hello home theater! 5,000 acres of beauty to choose from for wedding events make this diverse, yet intimate venue a coveted spot for destination weddings every year.
Monteverdi Tuscany
If Goop and Architectural Digest had a baby, it would look like Monteverdi Tuscany. Tranquil is their middle name, and their style is nothing less than refined, yet comfortable. It’s hard to imagine a retreat more relaxing than this secluded piece of heaven with exposed beams, stone walls, and “found” pieces from all over Europe. This Tuscan hideaway offers delicious views, calming energy and serenity at every turn, so be sure to visit the next time you’re near the Val d’Orcia region of Tuscany.
There’s no denying Italy wedding venues have the best views in the world!
Villa Montanare
Straight out of Letters to Juliet? Or is that just me? Villa Montanare is one of those visual treasures you just never want to forget – good thing photographers are always at the ready to shoot at this gorgeous Tuscan property in Cortona! A 1640-built farmhouse overlooking a happy mix of cypresses, pines, figs, fruit trees, rosemary bushes, lavender and cacti, the timeworn facade and subtle olive hues blend exquisitely with the surroundings. Up to 100 guests can enjoy this space, which is owned by the renowned wedding planner + designer, Weddings by Silke. The venue can accommodate up to 6 guests for overnight stays, and its easy to see why some might never want to leave (talking to you Frances from Under the Tuscan Sun)… Cortona is where she started her new life!
Borgo Stomennano
The beautiful Borgo Stomennano is tucked away in the Chianto Classico region, built on ancient Etruscan and Roman ruins. This estate is steeped in history (just read about it here!), but perhaps its most notable feature is its idyllic layout. Whether you dine al fresco beneath twinkle lights and twisty trees or make your entrance via vintage Fiat through centuries-old iron gates, there’s so much to love about the dynamic views at Borgo Stomennano. Did we mention its only 10 minutes from Siena?!
Abbazia San Pietro in Valle
An Umbrian paradise, Abbazia San Pietro in Valle is nestled inside the Nera Valley, surrounded on all sides by thick vegetation and mountain silhouettes. Open from April to October, the hotel can accommodate up to 50 people and has personalized experience written all over it. Dine beneath antique cloisters in the inner abbey, which can seat up to 150 guests, and don’t miss the frescoed chapel with images of St. Peter. A breathtaking escape, this resort is the hidden gem of Umbria!
La Foce
Midway between Florence and Rome, La Foce boasts world famous gardens surrounding its 12-bedroom villa with a buttercream patina and pretty green shutters. If exploring the space makes you feel like you’re wandering around a Disney movie… you’re certainly not the only one! From the stone sculptures to the manicured hedges to the bubbling fountains, La Foce is steeped in otherworldly romance. The Renaissance villa stands tall overlooking the lemon trees in terra-cotta pots dotting the formal gardens below, but even they are no match for the jaw-dropping Orcia valley views you have from this vantage point. La Foce is a must, must visit if you’re touring the Tuscan countryside in wedding pursuits!
Borgo Petrognano
A canopy of lush greens, an intricate stone fireplace and dramatic farm doors are just a few of the backdrops to choose from at this countryside estate. Borgo Petrognano is an unassuming country house that surprises + delights at every corner, from the world class service to the magic hour views. Intimate wedding parties just might find heaven here! Italy wedding venues are starting to look seriously tempting by now, am I right?
Villa Cetinale
If it’s not baroque, don’t fix it! Sorry, I had to. This 17th c Baroque villa is fittingly flawless, and enclosed on all sides by formal Italian gardens and a dramatic cypress tree allé, Villa Cetinale is basically a triple threat. Wedding vendors flock to shoot at this dreamy locale, as there are ample opportunities for unique, yet timeless portrait backdrops. The 13 bedrooms on site each have their own unique characteristics and color palette – it’s straight out of Rebecca Atwood’s Pattern book. And the villa is located about 1.5 hours from Florence… not too shabby for a view like this!
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast Basics
The Amalfi Coast is made up of a series of coastal towns and one island (lookin’ at you, Capri!). Most famous amongst these towns is Positano, with its pebbled beaches with striped umbrellas and terraced pastel homes overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The Southern region of Italy is much more relaxed than its northern counterpart, and it’s not uncommon to find tourists and locals alike basking in the beautiful sunlight on a good weather day (which is 95% of the time).
Amalfi Coast weddings are known for their infusion of color, watercolor art and handmade details from local artisans. And above all, they’re known for their highlight of the famous Amalfi Coast lemons. Ever wonder why you see so many limoncello toasts at these weddings? These towns boast the most unparalleled views in Italy, but they’re not always the easiest to come by – the views, that is.
Being located alongside cliffs presents its own logistical challenges, but combine that with the fact that some of these venues are located off the mainland and require water transport for everything (I’m talking tables, linens, flowers, plates – you name it!), and you’ll quickly wrap your head around the fact that you’ve gotta have a planner to help you navigate planning a wedding here. Italian wedding vendors work differently in general, but especially in the Amalfi Coast, and it’s not uncommon to experience slow email response times, loosely held office hours, and a bit of a language barrier. So hiring someone with experience in the area, or maybe even someone local, will be a game changer!
Belmond Hotel Caruso
Ever considered tying the knot in an 11th century cliffside palace? Ravello offers some of the most sweeping views of the Amalfi Coast, and this coveted luxury resort does not disappoint. Belmond is recognized worldwide for their outstanding service and attention to personalized detail, so it’s no surprise that a wedding here encompasses the ultimate sense of indulgence. Rich with olive trees, ancient architecture and a glistening infinity pool that point to breathtaking portraits, Hotel Caruso is a diversely photogenic space with all the best that Italy has to offer.
Villa Cimbrone
Not to be ignored is Hotel Caruso’s elegant neighbor, Villa Cimbrone. Verdant gardens breathe romance into every space across the distinguished property built in the 12th c, and it’s hard to find a meal more delicious than that of their chef’s making. Fresh Campania cuisine for the win! Protestant and Jewish marriages (or Waldensian ones with legal validity) are allowed on site, though Catholic and civil services are not available. Villa Cimbrone is a dream within a dream, and few spaces can take your breath away like the famous open air vaulted tunnel beneath which many couples exchange their vows or toast to forever.
Have we convinced you to find your corner of Italian paradise to say I do yet? It’s hard not to fall head over heels for these historic spaces so many poets and painters used as their very muses throughout time. From the allure of authentic Neapolitan wood-fired pizza to the subtle kiss of Alps mist offered in the northern regions, Italy is a country as dynamic as they come and boasts endless options for the couple who prides themselves in la dolce vita!
Now that you’ve explored some of the greatest destination wedding venues out there, explore these color wedding dresses to continue the stun parade.