If you’re envisioning a wedding in Italy, you’re not alone. Italy has long been a top destination for couples seeking a romantic, luxurious, and unforgettable wedding experience. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and world-class cuisine, Italy offers some of the best wedding venues in the world. Whether you’re dreaming of a small wedding in Italy, an extravagant celebration, or an intimate boutique wedding venue, Italy has the perfect location for you.
As a destination wedding photographer, my expertise lies in capturing your dream wedding at the perfect Italian venue. Whether you envision saying your vows in a historic palace in the heart of a lively Italian city, pledging your eternal love in a stunning villa adorned with captivating frescoes and gardens, or celebrating your union in an ancient castle with the breathtaking Italian countryside as your backdrop, I’ll help you find the ideal location to make your wedding unforgettable.
What Makes a Wedding in Italy an Unforgettable Wedding Destination
Italy is synonymous with romance, offering an incredible variety of wedding venues to match every couple’s vision. From luxurious Lake Como wedding villas to majestic Italian castle weddings, Italy’s wedding locations provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable celebration. Here are some of the most sought-after wedding venue types in Italy:
- Lake Como Wedding Villas – Exclusive estates with panoramic lake views, perfect for a luxury destination wedding in Italy.
- Romantic Villas in Tuscany – Elegant estates with frescoed ceilings, vineyards, and scenic gardens for intimate Italian weddings.
- Historic Castles in Italy – Enchanting medieval castles with grand ballrooms and breathtaking countryside views.
1. Lake Como Wedding – The Ultimate Romantic Destination
Wedding in Villa Balbiano, Lake Como
One of the most luxurious wedding venues in Italy, Villa Balbiano offers an exclusive experience on the shores of Lake Como. This 16th-century palazzo features grand interiors adorned with period artwork, crystal chandeliers, and gilded ceilings. The villa’s private pier and lush gardens create a breathtaking backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions, ensuring a high-end destination wedding in Italy.
Why We Love Villa Balbiano For Wedding Photography
- Expansive Grounds: Multiple gardens and secluded spots offer diverse settings for capturing different moods and creating unique photographic moments.verything a photographer could dream of to craft stunning imagery that captures the beauty of love.
- The frescoes, marble floors, and antique furniture create a grand, elegant setting for luxurious portraits.
- Stunning Italian Gardens with statues, fountains, and magnificent trees, the gardens provide a variety of picturesque backdrops for both intimate and sweeping shots.
- The lakeside pool area and nearby spots offer serene and romantic photography moments with breathtaking views.
- From the vegetable garden lined with olive trees to secluded corners, every space provides endless possibilities for creative shots.
- Private Bridal Preparation Suites: The 6 luxurious suites provide ideal accommodations for the bridal party, ensuring comfort and privacy before the ceremony.
- Direct boat access allows couples to capture stunning shots on the water, adding cinematic charm to the album.
- Choose between the villa’s beautiful gardens or lakeside terrace for your symbolic or civil ceremony, each offering breathtaking views.
- Ample Capacity: With space for up to 200 guests, the venue is perfect for both intimate weddings and grand celebrations.
Wedding in Villa Sola Cabiati, Lake Como
Villa Sola Cabiati is a historic and exclusive Lake Como wedding venue, renowned for its aristocratic charm. Once the summer residence of the Serbelloni family, this villa boasts sumptuous frescoed halls, pristine gardens, and spectacular lake views. Couples can arrive in style by private boat, making their wedding day truly unforgettable.
Why We Love Villa Sola Cabiati For Wedding Photography
- Villa Sola Cabiati offers breathtaking Lake Como views, grand baroque architecture, and exquisite Italian gardens, making it a dream venue for wedding photography.
- The ornate frescoed salons provide a regal indoor backdrop, perfect for formal portraits and elegant moments.
- The lush gardens create a romantic setting for outdoor portraits, capturing timeless beauty.
- Private boat access allows couples to make a cinematic arrival, adding dramatic waterfront shots to their wedding album.
- With a capacity for up to 40 guests, this exclusive villa offers an intimate, luxurious experience, ideal for timeless and elegant wedding photography.
- The villa’s dedicated staff, including a personal butler, ensures exceptional service and a seamless experience, allowing couples to focus on their special day while every detail is taken care of.
- Wedding in villa Sola Cabiati and villa del Balbianello (full wedding gallery)
- Read more about what makes Villa Sola Cabiati a favorite Lake Como venue for a wedding in Italy
Wedding in Villa Pizzo, Lake Como
For couples seeking a traditional Italian wedding venue with a mix of history and natural beauty, Villa Pizzo is an excellent choice. This 17th-century estate features expansive terraces overlooking Lake Como, lush Italian gardens, and an intimate chapel for romantic ceremonies. The villa’s timeless elegance and secluded ambiance make it a perfect setting for a bespoke Italian wedding.
Why We Love Villa Pizzo For Wedding Photography
- Villa Pizzo offers breathtaking lakefront views, elegant Italian gardens, and a secluded, romantic ambiance, ideal for wedding photography.
- The Darsena (old boathouse) is a popular ceremony spot, providing a stunning waterfront backdrop and seating for up to 200 guests.
- With private boat access, couples can make a grand entrance or exit, adding cinematic flair to their wedding photos.
- Every corner of this historic villa offers timeless beauty, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments in a wedding album.
- Absolute privacy and late-night parties as it has no neighbours.
- Discover what makes Villa Pizzo a premier Lake Como venue for timeless photography
- Fashion campaign for Karen Sabag at villa Pizzo (full gallery)
Wedding at Villa del Balbianello, Lake Como
Villa del Balbianello is one of Lake Como’s most beautiful wedding venues, offering breathtaking views, and is associated with Star Wars and James Bond as several iconic movies scenes were filmed there. Its historic architecture and romantic ambiance make it the perfect location for couples seeking an unforgettable experience for an intimate wedding in Italy.
Why We Love Villa del Balbianello For Wedding Photography
- Villa del Balbianello is a dream wedding photography location, blending history, cinematic charm, and breathtaking scenery.
- The Loggia terrace offers stunning lake views, perfect for romantic portraits.
- Renowened gardens provide a variety of textures and colors, ideal for intimate and timeless shots.
- The private dock allows for unforgettable waterfront moments, especially with a classic boat arrival or departure.
- From grand architectural details to candid, emotional moments, every corner of Villa del Balbianello is picture-perfect for wedding photography.
Wedding in Villa d’ Este, Lake Como
Villa d’Este is one of Italy’s most iconic luxury wedding venues, offering breathtaking lakefront views, opulent gardens, and historic charm. This 16th-century estate boasts world-class amenities, including a five-star hotel, Michelin-star dining, and a floating pool on Lake Como.
Why We Love Villa d’ Este For Wedding Photography
- Scenic Ceremony Spots: Exchange vows in the Mosaic Garden, framed by intricate Renaissance designs, or on the Lake Terrace, with panoramic water views.
- The villa’s ornate facades, elegant staircases, and frescoed halls create a regal backdrop for timeless portraits.
- The villa’s Italian Renaissance gardens, statues, and fountains offer endless romantic photo opportunities.
With its blend of history, elegance, and unparalleled scenery, Villa d’Este is a dream setting for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding in Lake Como.
Wedding in Villa Erba, Lake Como
Villa Erba in Cernobbio is one of the most prestigious wedding venues in Italy. Originally a 15th-century monastery, this historic villa was later transformed into a grand summer residence, once owned by renowned film director Luchino Visconti. Today, it stands as an exclusive destination for luxury weddings on Lake Como. Couples can exchange vows with a stunning backdrop of the lake, choosing between an outdoor ceremony on the lush lawn, a scenic platform over the pier, or an opulent indoor reception in the villa’s exquisite halls. While Villa Erba does not provide on-site accommodation, there are plenty of luxury hotels and boutique stays in Cernobbio and Como, ensuring a seamless wedding experience for guests.
- Iconic Lake Como Wedding Backdrop with panoramic lakefront views, making it a perfect setting for timeless wedding portraits.
- Historic Italian Villa with Cinematic Elegance: opulent interiors, frescoed ceilings and grand staircases, perfect for wedding photography.
- Gardens & Scenic Outdoor Spaces with vast manicured Italian gardens, stunning pier, and spacious lawns that provide multiple locations for outdoor wedding photography.
- Seamless Wedding Photography Flow: From the elegant getting-ready suites to the lakefront ceremony, grand indoor halls, and picturesque reception areas, every part of the day transitions effortlessly, allowing for a storytelling approach to wedding photography.
- Rain or Shine, It’s Picture-Perfect: Whether capturing a wedding ceremony on the lawn or an indoor reception inside the villa’s halls, Villa Erba offers stunning photography opportunities in any weather.
2. Tuscany Wedding in a Romantic Villa
Villa weddings in Tuscany offer timeless elegance, breathtaking landscapes, and historic charm, making them perfect for couples seeking a classic Italian wedding.
Wedding in La Foce, Tuscany
La Foce is a dream wedding venue with serene gardens in the heart of Tuscany, rolling hills, and a romantic vineyard setting. The Renaissance-style gardens, designed by Cecil Pinsent, provide a stunning location for outdoor ceremonies. Whether you’re planning a small intimate wedding or a large celebration, La Foce provides a magical and luxurious atmosphere.
Why We Love La Foce For Wedding Photography
- La Foce provides an epic Tuscan backdrop for wedding photography, with rolling hills and lush gardens creating a serene, natural setting.
- An astonishingly beautiful interior space.
- One of the most famous gardens in the world.
- The villa’s elegant architecture and iconic vistas offer a timeless atmosphere for capturing every moment of your special day.
- Ideal for intimate weddings with around 100 guests, La Foce offers a spacious yet cozy venue perfect for candid and romantic shots.
- Symbolic ceremonies can be framed against the estate’s lush greenery and panoramic views, creating a stunning visual backdrop.
Wedding in Villa Cetinale, Tuscany
A hidden gem in Tuscany, Villa Cetinale is a 17th-century Baroque villa known for its spectacular gardens, antique interiors, and peaceful surroundings. This venue is ideal for couples desiring a charming and exclusive wedding venue in Italy, with the added benefit of private accommodations for guests.
Why We Love Villa Cetinale For Wedding Photography
With its beautiful grounds and elegant architecture, Villa Cetinale is a photographer’s paradise, offering endless possibilities to capture the beauty, elegance, and romance of a Tuscan wedding.
- Villa Cetinale offers one of the most beautiful Tuscan architectural backdrops we have ever seen.
- It has its own chapel, hermitage, and holy wood (forest). The park contains seven votive chapels, a centre for horse racing.
- Fully staffed villa with personal butler service.
- The meticulously manicured gardens, featuring secret paths, statues, and climbing roses, provide an abundance of stunning spots for intimate ceremonies and grand receptions.
- The impressive front façade and elegant double staircase are perfect for dramatic and romantic shots during cocktail hour and cake cutting.
- The long lane lined with Italian cypress trees leading to the Romitorio offers timeless, cinematic images of the couple.
- Additional photo opportunities include the private heated pool and tennis court, offering a luxurious setting for unique, unforgettable wedding photos.
Read more why we love Villa Cetinale for a wedding in Tuscany
- Read more about why we love villa Cetinale for photography in Tuscany
- Experience a wedding in Villa Cetinale (gallery)
Wedding in Villa Gamberaia, Tuscany
Located just 20 minutes from Florence, Villa Gamberaia is renowned for its breathtaking gardens and panoramic views of the Arno Valley. This 17th-century villa offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury, making it an ideal venue for a romantic Tuscan wedding.
Why We Love Villa Gamberaia for Photography
With its manicured gardens, historic architecture, and panoramic views, Villa Gamberaia provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photography. From intimate garden ceremonies to grand indoor receptions, every corner of this villa offers opportunities for unforgettable photos.
Why We Love Villa Gamberaia For Wedding Photography
Whether indoors or outdoors, Villa Gamberaia offers an unforgettable wedding photography experience, perfect for capturing timeless and elegant images.
- Villa Gamberaia provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photography with its 17th-century architecture and expansive, landscaped gardens.
- One of the most famous gardens in the world, and a favorite among European royal families.
- Multiple picturesque locations are available for both formal and candid shots, from the stately interior to the charming Limonaia, Cappella, Nettuno, and Gamberino accommodations.
- It has several grottos with unique architecture and ample photographic opportunities, including the monumental larger Neptune Grotto, surrounded by cypress trees.
- The villa’s elevated position offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside and Florence, enhancing the depth of every shot.
- Versatile event spaces can accommodate up to 200 guests, ensuring flexibility for a range of wedding styles and photography opportunities.
- Large interior hall for a late-night party.
View a full gallery from a wedding in villa Gamberaia
Wedding in Belmond Villa San Michele, Tuscany
Belmond Villa San Michele is a breathtaking Tuscany wedding venue, just 10 minutes from Florence, offering panoramic views of the Arno Valley. This stunning Renaissance villa hotel blends history with luxury, providing versatile spaces for intimate and grand weddings alike. Couples can exchange vows in the romantic gardens or elegant loggia, with receptions held in the Italian garden, cloister, or terraced spaces. The villa’s exquisite cuisine, featuring a four-course wedding menu with fine wines, enhances the experience. With 45 luxurious rooms and suites, including private terraces, it’s the perfect retreat for a wedding in Tuscany, offering stunning backdrops for timeless wedding photography.
Why we love photographing weddings in Villa San Michele
- Stunning Panoramic Views – Overlooking Florence and the rolling Tuscan hills, it offers breathtaking backdrops for wedding photography in Tuscany.
- Historic Renaissance Charm – The villa’s ceilings, grand archways, and timeless architecture create a fairytale setting for a Tuscany wedding.
- Romantic Italian Gardens – Manicured greenery, ivy-covered walls, and scenic terraces provide endless opportunities for dreamy wedding portraits.
- Versatile Ceremony & Reception Spaces – From intimate cloisters to grand loggias, each location offers a unique aesthetic for wedding photography.
- Exclusive & Private Atmosphere – The secluded setting ensures intimate moments, ideal for capturing the emotions of your special day.
- Elegant Indoor & Outdoor Settings – Whether in the historic interiors or under the stars in the courtyard, every corner of this venue is picture-perfect.
- Cinematic Nighttime Ambiance – Soft lighting, candlelit receptions, and the villa’s enchanting atmosphere add to the magic of a wedding in Tuscany.
Experience a Villa San Michele wedding gallery (full gallery)
Wedding in Villa Cora, Florence
Located on the hills of Florence, Villa Cora is one of the most stunning villas we have ever photographed a wedding in. Originally built for an aristocratic family in the 19th century, this villa is surrounded by blooming gardens, opulent interiors, and breathtaking views of the Arno River.
Why We Love Villa Cora For Wedding Photography
Villa Cora’s combination of expansive gardens and exquisite interiors ensures endless opportunities for stunning wedding photography.
- Villa Cora offers a luxurious blend of opulence, history, and breathtaking landscapes, ideal for capturing timeless wedding photos.
- One of the most unique and opulent villa interiors we have ever seen, including “Florence’s most beautiful ballroom”, the Hall of Mirrors.
- Inside, the villa features elegant interiors with stunning frescoes, ornate chandeliers, and classic Italian architecture, creating a majestic and intimate atmosphere for capturing moments of love and celebration.
- The 900 acres of gardens and olive groves provide stunning natural backdrops for outdoor shots.
- The grand rooftop terrace, with a 360˚ view of Florence and the Boboli Gardens, offers sweeping, panoramic vistas perfect for unforgettable couple portraits.
- Exquisite cuisine and service.
View a Villa Cora wedding gallery and see why it’s perfect for your Florence wedding.
Wedding in Villa Mangiacane, Tuscany
Just 12 km from Florence, Villa Mangiacane is an idyllic venue for a luxury wedding in Tuscany. Surrounded by 600 acres of vineyards and olive groves, this 15th-century estate boasts refined interiors, breathtaking views, and an intimate yet grand atmosphere. Couples can exchange vows in the panoramic garden, with an indoor option available for backup. The estate offers multiple reception spaces, from elegant dining halls to rustic wine cellars for a romantic Tuscan wedding banquet. The venue’s gourmet cuisine includes customizable menus featuring traditional Tuscan, Italian, and gala-style dinners.With two luxurious villas, Villa Mangiacane and Villa Mazzei, the property can accommodate up to 60 guests, making it perfect for destination weddings in Tuscany. Guests can enjoy spa facilities, outdoor pools, and easy access to nearby Tuscan gems like Siena, Arezzo, and San Gimignano.
Why we love photographing weddings in Villa Mangiacane
- Panoramic hilltop location overlooking vineyards and olive groves, perfect for golden-hour shots.
- Secluded & Private Atmosphere ensuring an exclusive and intimate photography experience.
- Elegant facades, arched corridors, and frescoed interiors provide timeless backdrops.
- Panoramic Gardens ideal for romantic outdoor portraits and stunning ceremony shots.
- Ornate décor, grand staircases, and cozy fireplaces add sophistication to indoor photos.
- Romantic Outdoor Pool for amazing photo opportunities.
- Versatile Ceremony & Reception Spaces
View a Villa Mangiacane wedding gallery and see why it’s perfect for your Tuscany wedding
Wedding in Four Seasons Firenze
For an exclusive and lavish wedding in Florence, the Four Seasons Firenze is a premier venue known for its breathtaking gardens, historical interiors, and world-class service. The hotel’s 16th-century frescoed halls and lush botanical gardens offer a truly unique setting for a grand wedding celebration.
Why we love weddings in Four Seasons Florence
- Diverse Photography Opportunities from grand ballrooms to quiet garden corners, there’s a variety of environments for creative shots.
- Vast and breathtaking gardens
- Historical Interiors are perfect for capturing opulent wedding portraits.
- World-Class Service: The seamless coordination makes the photographer’s job easier by ensuring everything runs smoothly.
- Unique Setting: The combination of luxury and history creates a once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere for photographs.
3. Fairytale Castle Wedding In Italy
For couples who dream of a castle wedding in Italy, the country boasts some of the most breathtaking medieval castles, each offering a magical and historic atmosphere.
Wedding in Castelfalfi, Tuscany
Castelfalfi is an extraordinary wedding destination, offering a perfect blend of rustic charm and five-star luxury. The restored medieval village, with its stunning historic castle and world-class resort, creates an enchanting atmosphere for couples seeking an unforgettable experience. The breathtaking panoramic views of vineyards and olive groves set a romantic tone that makes every moment feel magical.
Ideal for golf lovers, Castelfalfi also boasts a championship golf course, adding a unique element to the venue for those who enjoy a round of golf while soaking in the stunning Tuscan landscape.
Why We Love Castelfalfi For Wedding Photography
- 21 unique wedding venue options, perfect for capturing everything from intimate courtyard ceremonies to grand celebrations for up to 350 guests.
- Beautiful hill-top castle with expansive terraces, and the historic mill set the stage for timeless wedding photography in Tuscany.
- Beautiful gardens and vineyards provide ideal settings for stunning golden-hour wedding portraits.
- Resort facilities and vast golf grounds for lovers of the sport!
- Private villas and luxurious suites capture every moment of your wedding day, from bridal preparations to the final toast, framed against Tuscany’s breathtaking landscape.
Discover why we love Castelfalfi for a wedding in Tuscany
Wedding in Villa La Fontanelle, Tuscany
For couples who want a villa wedding in Italy with panoramic views of Florence, Villa La Fontanelle is a dream venue. Once owned by the famous Medici family, this exquisite estate features ornate architecture, manicured gardens, and sweeping terraces perfect for a fairy-tale wedding. Whether hosting a lavish reception or an intimate gathering, this venue is a timeless choice.
Why We Love Villa La Fontanelle For Wedding Photography
- Dreamy, exclusive setting for wedding photography, featuring breathtaking panoramic views of Florence.
- 2.5 acres of meticulously maintained gardens, including the Italian garden with a marble pool and siren statue, and a beautiful olive orchard for intimate and grand moments.
- The wide terrace overlooking Florence offers an ideal backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and receptions, capturing the bride and groom against the stunning city skyline.
View a full wedding gallery in villa La Fontanelle
Wedding in Castello di Montalto, Tuscany
Located in the Chianti hills near Siena, Castello di Montalto is a perfect venue for wedding photography, offering a mix of historic charm and natural beauty. This thousand-year-old castle is surrounded by rolling vineyards and lush landscapes, creating a stunning backdrop for both indoor and outdoor wedding photos. Whether you’re capturing the elegance of the small consecrated church, the intimacy of a civil or symbolic ceremony, or the scenic beauty of the estate, every corner of Castello di Montalto offers endless opportunities for breathtaking shots.
The castle’s 10 independent houses and 22 rooms offer a unique accommodation option, perfect for couples and guests. The beautiful gardens and organic fields surrounding the property provide a peaceful and romantic setting for candid, golden-hour portraits. With a capacity for both large and intimate events, Castello di Montalto ensures a flexible wedding experience, while the venue’s private location guarantees privacy and exclusivity.
Why We Love Castello di Montalto For Wedding Photography
- The historic castle provides a stunning backdrop for elegant wedding portraits.
- The small consecrated church offers a romantic, intimate atmosphere for religious wedding ceremonies.
- Expansive vineyards and the rolling Chianti hills offer panoramic vistas perfect for wide-angle shots.
- Lush gardens and the surrounding nature provide a variety of settings for both candid and formal photography.
- The castle’s secluded location ensures uninterrupted, intimate moments between the couple, perfect for emotional and personal shots.
View a full Tuscany wedding in Castello di Montalto
Wedding in Isola del Garda: A Fairytale Venue on Lake Garda
Isola del Garda is home to a stunning Venetian-style villa, boasts lush gardens, breathtaking lake views, and a romantic atmosphere. The venue is perfect for a secluded and intimate wedding experience.
- Exclusive Private Island: A wedding on Isola del Garda offers unmatched privacy, surrounded by sapphire waters and breathtaking views.
- Spectacular Backdrops for photography, from the Italian Alps to gardens and the stunning neo-Gothic villa
- Sunsets over Lake Garda create a dreamy glow, perfect for capturing romantic wedding portraits.
- Seamless Luxury Experience with private boat transfers, security, and top-tier services ensure a stress-free, elegant wedding day.
- Perfect for 80 guests, offering an exclusive yet warm and personal celebration.
- Celebrate under the stars with music until 2:00 AM, creating unforgettable moments.
Getting Married at Isola del Garda?
Looking for a Lake Garda wedding photographer? Let’s capture your dream wedding on this breathtaking island!
