From the canals of Venice to the grandeur of Rome, we explore Italy's top cities that promise to transform your special day into a cherished masterpiece of love and beauty.

Destination wedding in Italy unveils a tapestry of enchanting locales where Italian cities stand as charming Italian wedding destinations. Their historic architecture, from ancient ruins to Renaissance palaces, provides a stunning backdrop for exchanging vows in centuries-old churches or opulent palazzos. The romantic ambience of Italian cities is palpable, with cobblestone streets, candlelit trattorias, and panoramic views lending an air of magic to wedding celebrations.

Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Italian cities house some of the best wedding locations in Italy. Italy's rich cultural heritage adds depth and meaning to weddings, with couples incorporating Italian wedding traditions into their celebrations, from serving regional delicacies to enjoying classical music or traditional folk songs. And let's not forget the gourmet cuisine – from Michelin-starred restaurants to rustic feasts featuring local specialities, Italian cities offer unforgettable dining experiences.

Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, embodies romance and grandeur, making it an extraordinary destination for weddings steeped in history and sophistication. With its cobblestone streets, majestic fountains, and ancient ruins at every turn, Rome weddings exude an unparalleled historical charm. Couples can celebrate their love amidst the beauty of historic landmarks such as the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, or the Pantheon, creating memories against a backdrop of centuries-old architecture.

From art and architecture to music and cuisine, Rome is a treasure trove of cultural riches. Couples can infuse their wedding celebrations with Italian traditions, from serving sumptuous Roman cuisine to incorporating classical music or opera into their festivities. Rome's romantic ambience is palpable, whether it's enjoying a stroll hand-in-hand along the Tiber River, sharing a gelato in the enchanting streets of Trastevere, or watching the sunset from the Spanish Steps.

Francesca Angrisano is an esteemed wedding photographer based in Rome, renowned for her exceptional talent in capturing the essence and beauty of couples' special moments. Francesca understands the unique charm and allure of the eternal city, and she skilfully utilizes its iconic landmarks, historic streets, and romantic vistas as the backdrop for her photography. Whether it's a classic ceremony in a centuries-old church or an intimate celebration in a hidden garden, Francesca has a knack for capturing the magic of the moment with grace and elegance.

Venice

Venice, the enchanting City of Love, provides a mesmerizing backdrop for weddings that are nothing short of magical. Venice wedding venues epitomize romance and elegance. Couples can exchange vows in historic palazzos overlooking the Grand Canal, such as Palazzo Cavalli or Palazzo Pisani Moretta, where the shimmering waters serve as a breathtaking backdrop to their love story.

Alternatively, they can opt for intimate ceremonies in centuries-old churches like the Basilica di San Marco or the charming Church of San Giorgio Maggiore. Couples can embark on a romantic gondola ride through the winding waterways, savouring the city's beauty as they glide beneath ancient bridges and past historic palaces. This quintessential Venetian experience creates unforgettable memories and sets the stage for a romantic wedding day.

Steeped in history and culture, Venice exudes an irresistible charm that captivates couples and guests alike. The city's labyrinthine streets, adorned with elegant architecture and hidden gems, offer endless opportunities for romantic exploration and discovery. Whether wandering through the bustling piazzas of St. Mark's Square or getting lost in the winding alleyways of the Dorsoduro district, Venice's historic atmosphere lends an air of timeless elegance to wedding festivities.

Additionally, Venice's culinary scene is a feast for the senses, featuring a wealth of delectable dishes inspired by the city's rich culinary heritage. Couples can treat their guests to sumptuous Venetian cuisine, showcasing fresh seafood, regional specialities like risotto and cicchetti, and decadent desserts such as tiramisu and frittelle.

Florence

A Florence wedding is a captivating journey into the heart of Renaissance romance. Florence is a city synonymous with art and culture, boasting world-renowned museums, galleries, and architectural wonders. Couples can exchange vows amidst the artistic splendour of iconic landmarks such as the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), with its majestic dome and stunning facade, or the romantic Boboli Gardens, surrounded by sculptures, fountains, and lush greenery.

Florence is home to a wealth of historic venues that provide the perfect backdrop for wedding celebrations. From opulent palaces like Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Borghese to intimate chapels and villas tucked away in the Tuscan countryside, couples have a myriad of options to choose from when selecting their dream wedding venue in Florence.

Perched along the banks of the Arno River and surrounded by rolling hills adorned with vineyards and olive groves, Florence offers breathtaking views at every turn. Couples can enjoy panoramic vistas of the city's iconic skyline from vantage points such as Piazzale Michelangelo or the rooftop terraces of historic hotels, creating unforgettable backdrops for their wedding photos.

Tuscany

Tuscany, with its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and charming medieval towns, is a dream destination for weddings. Besides Florence, there are other popular cities and towns in Tuscany for couples to tie the knot.

Known for its medieval charm and UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic centre, Siena is a popular choice for couples seeking romantic Tuscany wedding venues. The city's main square, Piazza del Campo, offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor ceremonies, while the Gothic-style Siena Cathedral provides an enchanting setting for couples to say "I do."

Famous for its medieval towers and picturesque skyline, San Gimignano is a romantic hilltop town that exudes old-world charm. Couples can exchange vows in one of San Gimignano's historic churches, such as the Collegiate Church of San Gimignano or the Church of Sant'Agostino, followed by a reception in a charming villa or agriturismo surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.

Nestled in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, Cortona is a hidden gem known for its panoramic views, winding cobblestone streets, and Renaissance architecture. Couples can marry in the intimate setting of Cortona's historic churches or town hall, followed by a reception in a rustic farmhouse or villa overlooking the rolling hills of Tuscany.

Famous for its Vino Nobile wine and stunning views of the Val d'Orcia, Montepulciano is a romantic hilltop town that offers a picturesque setting for weddings. Couples can tie the knot in one of Montepulciano's historic palazzos or vineyards, with sweeping views of the Tuscan countryside as their backdrop.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, with its breathtaking scenery and romantic ambience, is a sought-after destination for weddings.

Known for its pastel-coloured houses cascading down the cliffs towards the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, Positano is one of the most iconic and romantic towns for Amalfi Coast weddings. Couples can say "I do" on one of Positano's picturesque beaches, in a cliffside villa with panoramic views, or one of the town's charming churches, such as the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.

Perched high above the Amalfi Coast, Ravello offers stunning views of the coastline below and is renowned for its serene beauty and romantic atmosphere. Couples can tie the knot in the enchanting gardens of Villa Cimbrone or Villa Rufolo, amidst lush greenery and blooming flowers, or in the intimate setting of Ravello's historic churches, such as the Cathedral of Ravello or the Church of Santa Maria a Gradillo.

As the namesake of the Amalfi Coast, the town of Amalfi holds a special allure for couples seeking a romantic wedding destination. With its dramatic cliffside setting, medieval architecture, and picturesque harbour, Amalfi provides a stunning backdrop for wedding celebrations. Couples can exchange vows in the historic Duomo di Sant'Andrea Apostolo, followed by a reception in one of Amalfi's elegant hotels or seaside restaurants.

Although technically not part of the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is often included in discussions of weddings in this region due to its proximity and similar charm. Sorrento boasts sweeping views of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples, along with charming cobblestone streets, historic churches, and luxurious hotels. Couples can choose to marry in one of Sorrento's elegant villas, panoramic terraces, or romantic gardens, creating memories against the backdrop of Sorrento's timeless beauty.

Lake Como

Lake Como, with its serene waters, lush landscapes, and picturesque villas, is a romantic destination that draws couples from around the world to exchange vows. Here are some of the most popular cities and towns on Lake Como for weddings.

The largest city on Lake Como, Como is a charming destination with a beautiful historic centre and stunning lake views. Couples can marry in one of Como's historic churches, such as the Como Cathedral (Duomo), followed by a reception in a lakeside villa or luxury hotel overlooking the water.

Often referred to as the Pearl of Lake Como, Bellagio is a picturesque town known for its elegant villas, colourful gardens, and narrow cobblestone streets. Couples can tie the knot in one of Bellagio's historic churches, such as the Basilica of San Giacomo, followed by a romantic reception in a lakeside villa or garden overlooking the lake.

Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Varenna is a charming village with a romantic atmosphere and breathtaking views. Couples can exchange vows in one of Varenna's historic churches, such as the Church of San Giorgio, followed by a reception in a lakeside restaurant or villa with panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Located at the intersection of Lake Como's three branches, Menaggio is a scenic town with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful waterfront promenade. Couples can marry in one of Menaggio's historic churches, such as the Church of Santo Stefano, followed by a reception in a lakeside hotel or villa with stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.

Situated on the western shore of Lake Como, Tremezzo is known for its luxurious hotels, historic villas, and lush gardens. Couples can tie the knot in one of Tremezzo's elegant villas, such as Villa Carlotta or Villa Balbianello, followed by a reception on a lakeside terrace or garden with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Sicily

Sicily, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers an enchanting backdrop for weddings.

Perched high above the Ionian Sea, Taormina is a romantic hilltop town known for its ancient Greek theatre, medieval streets, and panoramic views of Mount Etna. Couples can exchange vows in one of Taormina's historic churches, such as the Cathedral of Taormina or the Church of San Giuseppe, followed by a reception in a luxury hotel or villa with sweeping views of the sea and surrounding coastline.

Palermo: As the capital city of Sicily, Palermo is a vibrant metropolis with a rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. For a true Sicilian wedding, couples can marry in one of Palermo's historic churches, such as the Palermo Cathedral or the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti, followed by a reception in a historic palace or villa with ornate frescoes and lush gardens.

Nestled between the sparkling waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the rugged Madonie Mountains, Cefalù is a picturesque coastal town with a charming historic centre and beautiful beaches. Couples can tie the knot in one of Cefalù's churches, such as the Cefalù Cathedral or the Church of Santa Maria dell'Odigitria, followed by a reception in a seaside restaurant or villa with panoramic views of the sea.

With its ancient Greek ruins, Baroque architecture, and tranquil waterfront, Syracuse is a romantic destination with a rich history and cultural heritage. Couples can exchange vows in one of Syracuse's historic churches, such as the Cathedral of Syracuse or the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia, followed by a reception in a historic palazzo or villa overlooking the sea.

Located in the heart of the Val di Noto, Ragusa is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town known for its stunning Baroque architecture and picturesque countryside. Couples can marry in one of Ragusa's historic churches, such as the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista or the Church of San Giuseppe, followed by a reception in a historic palazzo or villa surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.

Author: Renāte Berga

Photographers: Elina Upmane, Francesca Angrisano