Indeed, wedding tourism is quite a phenomenon in Italy. The wedding market revenue exceeds €440 million annually, hosting over 8 million events, and attracting over 400,000 guests. So, if you have been dreaming about an idyllic location for your ceremony, come and find your perfect Italian wedding venues and destinations.
Ageless Passion
There are plenty of reasons to choose Italy as a wedding destination, and apparently, Millennials are rediscovering them all. Qualities such as amazing culture, superb cuisine, warm hospitality, and heart-melting romantic locations have been present for centuries.
However, the Millennial trend of getting married at scenic locations, such as an Italian villa, is a relatively recent phenomenon. So, if you want to join the trend and create unforgettable memories but still don't know which place to choose, here are some of the most popular destinations to inspire you.
Amalfi Coast
Those who have visited the Amalfi Coast rightly nicknamed it the "Divine Amalfi Coast". Indeed, it's one of the most impressive coastlines in the world, with dramatic cliffs towering over the light-green sea. The region includes cities such as Amalfi, Ravello, and Positano, which are an invitation for a romantic road trip.
There are plenty of terraces where you can enjoy the sunset as the backdrop for your ceremony. Regarding venues, there's an option for every taste: a luxury hotel in Amalfi, a rural villa in Ravello, or a villa by the sea in Positano.
Florence
Lovebirds cannot go wrong with the Cradle of the Renaissance. Nearly every corner of the city is an architectural masterpiece. Couples usually head to the Ponte Vecchio, where the sunset bathes everything in red. However, those looking for a royal-like ceremony should consider the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, built during the Renaissance with a unique marble façade whose dome can be seen for kilometres.
Indeed, it's one of the largest churches worldwide. Even couples who choose to marry elsewhere in the city should visit the site. Florence is also a fantastic place for romantic tourism. For instance, couples can see the place where Dante Alighieri and Beatrice first met or revisit the clandestine love between Francesco I de' Medici and Bianca Cappello at the Palazzo del Mandragone.
The Chianti Hills
Speaking of fairytale-type weddings, how about getting married in a castle? The Chianti Hills offer that and much more. Some people may recognise the name from the wine. Well, that's where those famous grapes are grown, which means there are plenty of vineyards that make perfect wedding locations. There are also quite a few castles, such as the Castello del Trebbio, and medieval villas on offer.
The hills are very close to Florence, and it is easily accessible. It has mild and temperate weather almost all year round. Still, those who choose to say "I do" over the winter may be advised of the possibility of unexpected bad weather. Thankfully, there are plenty of venues that can shelter the ceremony from the elements.
Venice
It’s impossible to make a list of romantic destinations without mentioning Venice. Indeed, Venice is known as the City of Love for a reason. Wedding venue options range from Renaissance churches and castles to luxury hotels, not to mention the traditional gondola rides where the brides go in wedding dresses, taking stunning photos along the way.
Romantic tours around the city obviously include gondola rides, but there’s also the Rialto Bridge, the Doge’s Palace, and the Teatro La Fenice. The city has been the background to historical love stories, like Alfred Musset and George Sand, and between Gabriella Annunzio and Lord Byron.
Verona
Verona is among the most popular destinations for weddings, and not only because it is the city of Romeo and Juliet. It also has plenty of churches, four of which stand out: San Fermo church, the basilicas of San Zeno and Sant'Anastasia, and, of course, the cathedral of Santa Maria Matricolare. Those who choose to visit over the summer can also enjoy a very romantic open-air opera season at the Roman-era Arena di Verona.
The Castel di San Pietro offers a privileged view of the city from a few metres above street level. The castle was built in the 14th century at the top of St Peter's Hill and is beautifully preserved. However, those who prefer lighter and more open-air locations will find plenty of options by the banks of the River Adige.
Capri
The Isle of Capri is arguably one of the most romantic places in the Mediterranean. Pablo Neruda nicknamed it "the queen of rock" after he visited it, due to its sharp and tall rocks rising from the sea. Like Venice, Capri also has its typical boats, called "gozzi", which take visitors to watch the sunset while treating them to local wine and tomato bruschetta.
The island is easily accessible from the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento, with boats departing regularly. Although small, Capri has plenty of options for wedding locations. Those who want to have the Mediterranean in the background should go to places such as Punta Cannone, Punta Carena, and Tragara.
Dolomites
Couples who prefer a more Swiss-like backdrop should head to the north-eastern region, more specifically, to the mountain range known as the Dolomites. The combination of snow-capped mountains, green valleys, and translucent lakes makes it the perfect destination for lovebirds in general.
Additionally, not many places in Italy can host a wedding ceremony more than 2,500 metres above sea level, as in the case of Seceda Ridge. Alternatively, couples can head to Alpi di Siusi for its Sound of Music-like landscapes, which are perfect for open-air celebrations during the summer.
*Collaborative post
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