If you’re looking to say ‘I do’ in one of the most gorgeous, culturally rich countries in the world — Italy just might be the perfect place for you. And, this guide is going to give all the details on how to elope in Italy. Italy (with Thailand as a close 2nd) is one of my favorite places and I think it is the *perfect* place to elope for so many reasons (spoiler: half of them are food…kidding…kinda?)

Keep reading for all the answers to your questions from how to prepare to top wedding vendors in Italy. I’ll also share what to do after your wedding in case you want to honeymoon in Bel Paese (beautiful country in Italian), too!

Do you dream of a wedding in the mountains or by the sea? Maybe you’re looking to get married at the lakeside or surrounded by a unique culture. The best part about eloping in Italy is that there’s an ideal spot for every couple – and I’ll help you find it.

How to Prepare to Elope in Italy

You’ve probably already caught on to just how much work goes into getting married. This can be especially true for destination weddings buuuut I’ve already done a lot of the nitty gritty to make it easier for you to start to plan an elopement in Italy.

Are you wondering how much does it cost to elope in Italy? Or what documents do I need to get married in Italy? Stay tuned!

Marriage License Guidelines in Italy

Getting married in Italy is a top choice for destination weddings because you don’t need to be a resident. However, you do need to have the necessary documents:

• Valid passport
• Birth certificate (original or certified copy)
• Evidence of termination of any previous marriage (if applicable)
• Affidavit stating that there aren’t any legal hindrances prohibiting you from getting married (sworn before a U.S. consular officer accredited in Italy)
• Declaration stating that there is no obstacle to your marriage (sworn by 2 witnesses)

*Important note* all foreign documents must be translated into Italian.

Have your documents with you when you arrive in Italy. Once there, you’ll go to the Marriage Office of the town hall in the city you’re getting married. It takes some prep, but so does any wedding! 

If you’d rather avoid some of these steps, a great option is to get legally married at home. Then, make your way to Italy for your special ceremony. This allows you to have the destination wedding of your dreams without dealing with the legal aspect in a new place. Honestly – I think this is the way to go.

The Best Time to Elope in Italy

Italy is stunning year-round, but, you’ll probably want to plan accordingly to experience *prime* weather. The perfect time to elope in Italy will depend on the specific location. For the most part, Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-October) offer the best weather. 

If you choose to elope in Italy during the Summer, it’s best to do it in the morning or late afternoon. This will allow you to avoid the heat and a lot of people (this is also the touristy season – which means hotels + flights are usually more pricey).

Wedding Planners in Italy

Having help when preparing for your wedding day can make your big day run much more smoothly. There are several options for wedding planners in Italy to help make all your wedding day dreams come true!

Wild Aisle (me!) offers simple planning such as help with choosing a location/vendors, permit technicalities, accommodation suggestions and general travel advice based on my experience. If you’re looking for something more elaborate (full reception planning, etc) here are some reputable wedding planners in Italy:

• Efffetti: a network of experienced destination wedding planners in and around Tuscany
• Roberta Torresan: an award-winning wedding planner in Rome, Amalfi Coast, and surrounding areas
• Italian Wedding Designer: a team of wedding planners who have been helping destination wedding couples for about a decade

Wedding Photographer in Italy

Any wedding in Italy is bound to be simply *stunning*! But of course, you’ll want to have the perfect photos that capture the special moment when you elope in Italy.

That’s where I come in. Not only can Wild Aisle Photography help cover some of the bases of planning your destination wedding, but I’m also your Italy destination wedding photographer – the whole shebang. In fact, Italy is one of my favorite places on the planet. I love taking photos of Italy in all its glory, and capturing  the story of your big day.

Where to Elope in Italy

It can be difficult to choose the best place to elope in Italy given that there are so many amazing options. The whole country is spectacular, and each region offers something different! Most couples can find a destination that’s the absolute perfect fit for them. I’ve visited Italy numerous times, so I’m definitely happy to provide suggestions for the perfect fit.

Check out some of my favorites…

For a Seaside Wedding: Amalfi Coast

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is surrounded by sky-high cliffs, beautiful beaches, and charming seaside towns. Amalfi Coast is a tourist destination but is less crowded during May and September. If you can’t make your way during these months, it’s a stunning place all year long. There are plenty of ideal wedding venues away from crowds including terraces with panoramic views and villas situated on cliffs.

For a Wedding in the City: Rome

Rome is the perfect place to get married if you’re looking for romance in the city. The ‘Eternal City’ is a charming one that boasts history, art, and unmatched architecture. Also, the foooood – omg so good. The weather is inviting and sunny all year long for your destination wedding. From historical buildings to stunning castles, there are countless unique wedding venues in Rome.

For Luxury by the Lake: Lake Como

For picturesque views and luxury, Lake Como is the place to get hitched. It’s one of the largest lakes in Europe. It’s surrounded by endearing towns and beautiful beaches. There are countless romantic villas by the lake to elope — like Villa Pizzo where Chrissy Tegan and John Legend said their vows.

For Culture and Countryside: Tuscany

For a simple yet remarkable Italian wedding destination, Tuscany is a top choice. Located in Central Italy, Tuscany is surrounded by diverse cities and is filled with vineyards. It’s known for its leisurely way of life and mostly sunny weather. There are many spectacular wedding venues in Tuscany’s elegant cities. 

For Incredible Views: Sicily

If you want to be surrounded by history and phenomenal views, Sicily is the place to be. It’s the largest Mediterranean Island in Italy and home to Mount Etna, one of the highest active volcanoes in Europe. From lush forests to sandy beaches, Sicily weddings offer jaw-dropping views. 

For a Wedding in the Mountains: Italian Alps Dolomites

If you love outdoor adventure, the Italian Alps Dolomites are the perfect wedding spot. The Dolomites are a part of the Alps that stretch across seven countries, including Italy. Say your vows by a gorgeous lake or and in a quaint mountain village. The Alps are a great place for adventure after the wedding, too!

How to Enjoy Italy After the Wedding (things to do)

Not only is Italy the perfect elopement destination, but there are also so many things to do in Italy after your wedding. If you’re wanting to stick around for your honeymoon, it’s a great place to do it!

Here are some things to do after you elope in Italy…

Explore culture in the capital of Rome. 

If you don’t get married here, Rome is still a must-see. It’s beautiful and is easy to explore on foot. Rome is filled with art museums, architecture, and delicious food.

Drink wine.

Probably a given, but I gotta throw it in here anyways. Italy is known for the finest wines in the world and features over a million acres of vineyards. In fact, Italian wine is made in every region of Italy.

Go to Gargano National Park.

Gargano is the largest natural park in Italy, with beautiful limestone rocks, caves, and coves. It’s the perfect place to connect with your love on peaceful hikes or under hundred-year-old trees.

Experience love in Venice.

Venice is known for its romance and it’s the ultimate city for newly married couples. Take a boat ride to the islands and watch the sunset from Accademia Bridge.

Learn to make homemade pasta. 

Take a pasta cooking course for an unforgettable experience with your new husband or wife.

Go to a local festival.

While the Carnival of Venice is a famous yearly celebration, there are hundreds of Italian festivals. Experience Italy’s culture through music, food, and more by attending a festival put on by the locals.

Relax on the beach.

With about 5,000 miles of coastline, there are countless beautiful beaches and seaside towns in Italy. There are many opportunities for white sands and clear waters. 

Plan Your Elopement in Italy 

Now that you know the ins and outs of preparing to elope in Italy, specific destinations, and things to do, you’re probably ready to hop on the plane!

Want to know more? Wild Aisle Photography can help with choosing the perfect destination, planning basics, and photography. 

Interested in things to do after you elope in Italy? Read about 6 unique ideas for after eloping.