Saying ‘I Do’ in Italy has never been more popular - with the Bel Paese’s wealth of breathtaking venues, favorable weather and easy flights from the US making it the ultimate destination wedding spot. In fact, Italy’s Department of Tourism has said that couples from the United States accounted for almost 30% of destination weddings in the country in recent years.
Whether under the Tuscan Sun, in the midst of the Eternal City, on the magical Costa Smeralda or on the terraced cliffsides of the Amalfi Coast, these are some of the best luxury hotels in which to host memorable, Italian-inspired nuptials.
Relish Romance in the Hills of Tuscany at COMO Castello Del Nero (pictured)
Situated on a private 740-acre estate among the rolling hills of Tuscany, COMO Castello Del Nero offers a wedding backdrop fit for Florentine nobility, in close proximity to Florence and Siena. Set in a 12th century castle that has been elegantly restored in collaboration with Milanese designer Paola Navone, the hotel has a range of light-filled indoor and outdoor spaces that can accommodate celebrations of up to 120 guests. Whether couples opt for the atmospheric Italian Garden full of white Florentine roses (which are at their most abundant in May), the medieval vaulted ceilings of the Sala Delle Volte (where music is allowed till the early hours of the morning!), the private Villa San Luigi, or the cool-toned chic of La Torre restaurant, receptions are curated by the dedicated events team to ensure intimacy and grandeur at every turn. For a wedding menu to match, Michelin-starred Chef Giovanni Luca Di Pirro works with couples to create a customized meal bursting with Tuscan flavor and utilizing the finest local ingredients sourced from local suppliers or directly from the onsite Chef’s Garden. To unwind after a wedding day for the ages, couples are invited to escape to COMO Shambhala Retreat for a signature COMO Shambhala Massage, or recline in one of the dedicated thermal suites with views of the flourishing vineyards and Tuscan cypress trees. And honeymooners should look no further than one of the hotel’s prized Heritage Suites - historic, light-filled suites in the main building featuring original frescoed walls, vaulted ceilings, original fireplaces, and sweeping views of the estate from the suite’s expansive living area.
Celebrate by the Sea at Hotel Santa Caterina
Perched on a cliffside with panoramic views over Amalfi Bay, the iconic Hotel Santa Caterina, is a historic 2 Michelin Key-awarded villa that embodies the timeless beauty and allure of the Amalfi Coast - the perfect place to celebrate everlasting love. Since the turn of the 20th century, Hotel Santa Caterina has been known as the ‘home of hospitality’ in Amalfi, and is well-equipped to host couples’ dream Italian wedding - from intimate banquets to extravagant receptions. Should couples wish to hold their ceremony onsite, the Glicine restaurant gardens offer a verdant natural altar, framed by cascading wisteria and the azure waters of the Mediterranean in the background. Following the exchange of vows, couples can steal away for photos amongst the fragrant Sfusato lemon and olive groves while guests enjoy pre-dinner aperitivo on Bar La Terazza’s panoramic terrace. Of course, no Italian wedding would be complete without a decadent wedding feast, and couples can curate a Michelin-starred menu with Chef Giuseppe Stanzione at Glicine, or celebrate under the stars with authentic Amalfitana fare at Ristorante Al Mare. With 66 elegantly appointed rooms, and the private Villas della Marchesa, there is plenty of room to accommodate wedding guests, allowing easy access to recovery celebrations at Hotel Santa Caterina’s famous waterfront Beach Club the following day. Should newlyweds wish to extend the magic of their special day at Hotel Santa Caterina, the secluded two-floor Chalet Giulietta & Romeo suite is the ultimate romantic escape. The suite features a luxuriously appointed master suite with balcony, dedicated living area, a private sun-soaked ‘solarium’ lounge area and infinity pool boasting unobstructed sea views.
Celebrating Amor in Roma at Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
The renowned Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel is an idyllic destination set on its own private 15-acre Mediterranean parkland, providing an unparalleled vantage point above the Eternal City. True to Italian romanticism, the property is a perfect backdrop to host one’s dream wedding, with historic venues, luxurious amenities, and high-touch design. With help from the hotel’s passionate and accomplished coordinators, the celebrated couple’s dream wedding will be able to come to life. Whether they are interested in an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, the hotel’s wedding packages will allow the couple to breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy the planning process. Executive Chef Nicholas Cuomo will create a customized wedding menu for every season and taste using locally sourced ingredients and giving a unique take on traditional Italian dishes that tantalize the senses, while the renowned Sommelier Marco Reitano will pair selections of delightful wines sourced from different regions in Italy. From surprise cocktails at the wedding reception to a custom wedding cake by Executive Pastry Chef Dario Nuti, newlyweds and their guests will have a memorable evening. Also a popular honeymoon destination, Rome Cavalieri is minutes away from the historic city center and offers a luxurious haven for couples to retreat and enjoy amenities including Rome’s first and only 3-Michelin-Star restaurant, La Pergola; an award-winning, expansive spa and health club; multiple outdoor and indoor swimming pools; and much more. Perfect for newlyweds seeking memorable experiences for their honeymoon, the hotel has skillfully curated a host of luxury cultural experiences, in and around Rome, across different categories including gastronomy, adventure, arts and culture, wellness, sustainability, and fashion.
Tie The Knot Amongst Costa Smeralda’s Fairytale Surroundings
Located in northeastern Sardinia, Italy, Costa Smeralda boasts 34 miles of gorgeous coastline in Gallura, on the north-east end of the island. Soon-to-be newlyweds can choose from 22 immaculate and powder-soft white sand beaches as the backdrop for wedding celebrations. The destination is cared for by the Costa Smeralda Consortium, to ensure that the region is in tip-top shape for weddings and celebrations. Marina of Porto Cervo is home to an array of beautiful hotels ideal for wedding celebrations. The iconic Hotel Cala di Volpe, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Costa Smeralda’s embodies the glamour and elegance of an ideal wedding venue. Venue options range from lush garden settings overlooking the emerald sea or intimate drawing rooms. Le Grand Restaurant can host up to 220 guests with a banquet set-up for those looking to celebrate in a rustic, yet charming venue serving authentic Sardinian flavors. The hotel’s private beach club can also be used for events, as well as its poolside area, which is the largest salt pool in Europe. Brides and grooms won’t have to lift a finger with the hotel’s own designated team of wedding experts.
