How to Plan a Destination Wedding in Italy (Lake Como, Amalfi & Tuscany)
Italy is one of the most romantic and timeless wedding destinations in the world. From the breathtaking lakes of the north to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast and the rolling hills of Tuscany, it’s no wonder couples from across the globe dream of saying “I do” here.
As a destination wedding photographer in Italy, I’ve seen firsthand how these regions provide unforgettable backdrops for couples who want more than just a wedding — they want an experience. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to plan your Italian wedding, the best venues in Lake Como, Amalfi, and Tuscany, and why choosing the right photographer matters.
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Why Choose Italy for Your Destination Wedding?
Italy offers more than just stunning scenery. Couples choose Italy because of:
Romance – cobbled streets, candlelit courtyards, and timeless architecture.
Food & Wine – world-class cuisine served in authentic, picturesque settings.
Climate – warm Mediterranean summers with long golden evenings.
Photography – light and landscapes that make every wedding feel cinematic.
Whether you’re drawn to editorial portraits on Lake Como’s waterfront or documentary moments in a Tuscan vineyard, Italy gives photographers endless opportunities to create timeless images.
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Planning a Wedding in Italy: Where to Start
Organising a wedding abroad may feel overwhelming, but with the right planning it can be stress-free:
1. Choose Your Region – Each part of Italy has its own feel. Lake Como = luxury, Amalfi Coast = romance and drama, Tuscany = rustic elegance.
2. Secure Your Venue – Popular venues book up 12–18 months in advance.
3. Hire Local & Destination-Friendly Suppliers – A photographer who understands Italian light and landscapes can make all the difference.
4. Understand Legalities – Civil, religious, or symbolic ceremonies all have different requirements.
5. Think Seasonally – Spring and autumn are ideal, avoiding the intense summer heat.
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Lake Como Weddings – Luxury on the Water
Lake Como is synonymous with luxury. Known for its grand villas and lakeside views, it’s one of the most sought-after wedding destinations in Europe.
Top Venues in Lake Como
Villa Balbianello – World-famous, elegant, and cinematic (a James Bond filming location).
Villa Erba – A historical mansion perfect for glamorous receptions.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo – Luxury and lake views combined.
Why Photographers Love Lake Como
For a wedding photographer Lake Como, the golden light reflecting on the water, the pastel villas, and the mountain backdrop create scenes that feel straight out of a movie.
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Amalfi Coast Weddings – Romance on the Cliffs
The Amalfi Coast offers dramatic coastal cliffs, pastel-coloured villages, and incredible sunsets. It’s the ultimate romantic wedding destination.
Top Venues in Amalfi
Hotel Caruso, Ravello – Iconic infinity pool views over the coast.
Villa Cimbrone – World-famous “Terrace of Infinity” is breathtaking for ceremonies.
Positano Beach Clubs – Perfect for stylish, laid-back celebrations.
Why Photographers Love Amalfi
As an Amalfi Coast wedding photographer, I love the play of natural light on cliffside terraces, intimate cobbled streets, and seaside receptions that run late into the night.
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Tuscany Weddings – Rustic Elegance in the Countryside
Tuscany is perfect for couples who want rolling hills, vineyards, and rustic stone villas as their backdrop.
Top Venues in Tuscany
Castello di Vincigliata, Florence – A castle with sweeping countryside views.
Borgo Stomennano, Siena – A charming Tuscan village turned wedding venue.
Villa Medicea di Lilliano, Florence – Blends history with modern luxury.
Why Photographers Love Tuscany
For a Tuscany wedding photographer, golden-hour portraits in vineyards are a dream. The soft Tuscan light creates editorial images that feel timeless and romantic.
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Photography Tips for Italian Weddings
From my perspective as a destination wedding photographer in Italy, here’s what couples should consider:
Golden Hour Magic – Italy’s light is best in the hour before sunset; schedule couple portraits then.
Backup Plan for Weather – Even Italy can get rain; venues with covered terraces help.
Travel-Friendly Timeline – Allow buffer time for moving between ceremony, reception, and portrait locations.
Blend Documentary & Editorial Styles – Capture both real, candid moments and posed, magazine-worthy portraits.
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FAQs – Destination Weddings in Italy
Q: Do we need to visit the venue before booking?
A: Not always, though many couples book based on trusted supplier recommendations and virtual tours.
Q: Can you recommend suppliers?
A: Yes, as a photographer I often collaborate with local planners, florists, and caterers.
Q: How far in advance should we book?
A: Ideally 12–18 months, especially for Lake Como and Amalfi Coast venues.
Q: Do you cover weddings across Italy?
A: Yes — I cover weddings in Lake Como, Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, and beyond.
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Final Thoughts
Italy is more than a destination — it’s an experience. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury Lake Como wedding, a romantic Amalfi cliffside ceremony, or a rustic Tuscan vineyard celebration, Italy offers backdrops that turn every wedding into a work of art.
Choosing the right photographer ensures those moments are preserved beautifully. As a wedding photographer in Italy, I combine documentary storytelling with editorial portraits, giving couples images that feel authentic, stylish, and timeless.
👉 If you’re planning a destination wedding in Italy, I’d love to capture your day. Get in touch here to talk about your vision.
