As someone who planned their wedding beside Lake Como I understand the desire to marry in Italy and how to go about it!

If you dream of exchanging vows in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, Italy is undoubtedly the perfect destination.

With its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich history, it’s no wonder that Italy is one of the top spots for intimate destination weddings.

Whether you envision a romantic ceremony overlooking Lake Como like us, or a celebration under the Mediterranean sun along the Amalfi Coast, planning a small, intimate wedding in Italy can create memories that will last a lifetime.

Here’s a guide to planning your small romantic wedding in Italy, from finding the perfect venue to choosing the best time of year and the most romantic spots for your special day.

1. Choosing the Perfect Location

One of the most exciting parts of planning an Italian wedding is selecting the perfect location. Italy offers a variety of stunning landscapes and settings that are ideal for smaller weddings and elopements.

Lake Como: Known for its breathtaking views and luxurious villas, Lake Como is one of the most romantic places in Italy. You can exchange vows in town halls, in front of panoramic terraces, lush gardens, or in grand villas like Villa Balbianello or Villa d’Este, which offer the perfect backdrop for your ceremony. A boat ride along the lake adds a special touch to your wedding reception or post-ceremony celebration.
Amalfi Coast: If you're looking for an iconic, sun-kissed location with dramatic cliffs and views of the Adriatic Sea, the Amalfi Coast is a dream come true. From a beautiful ceremony in a luxury villa to a symbolic ceremony on a hidden gem beach, this region offers a variety of options for smaller weddings.
City of Florence: For those who appreciate art, history, and culture, Florence is an ideal location. The town hall or a civil ceremony in one of the city’s many palaces or gardens can create a sophisticated yet intimate vibe for your small destination wedding.
Southern Italy: The Italian Riviera and smaller towns in southern Italy offer amazing wedding venues, such as private luxury villas or family farms surrounded by olive groves and olive trees. The warm weather and great food will enhance the romance of your day.

2. How to Choose the Best Wedding Venues for Smaller Weddings

Italians tend to have their ceremony in a church or town hall and then their reception meal at a wonderful restaurant. This means you get excellent food (which your guests still talk about years later) and attention to detail often from a family run team.

The great part of this arrangement is that whenever you are visiting again you can go back for a meal and reminisce. We did this and years later had both our children’s baptism dinners at the restaurant who hosted our reception dinner.

So when planning a smaller wedding or micro wedding, the key is to find a venue that fits your style while maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

You can opt for luxury hotels that offer concierge services or exclusive weddings in secluded locations. These venues often provide complete wedding packages that include everything from the wedding ceremony to the reception and accommodations for your close friends and family members. Or you can go for smaller, more rustic venues where you can add on extra events such as a local wine tasting, pizza making and more informal delights.

Some of the best wedding venues for smaller celebrations include:

Villa Le Fontanelle: Nestled on the hills of Florence, this villa offers stunning views, a secret garden, and a luxurious feel for an intimate gathering.
Aman Venice: Located along the Grand Canal, this luxury hotel boasts incredible wine cellars and a beautiful dining room perfect for your wedding reception.
Villa Balbianello: One of the most iconic luxury villas on Lake Como, this venue offers the perfect location for a romantic, intimate celebration surrounded by breathtaking views. This is a high end venue popular with celebrities so will need a budget to match.
Locanda Sant Anna, Argegno, Lake Como. This is where we had our wedding reception. A family run restaurant with rooms. The food is exceptional and the garden overlooks Lake Como. But you feel part of a family and are taken care of.

3. The Planning Process: What to Consider

Planning a small intimate wedding requires attention to detail and careful coordination. Here are the key things to consider:

Number of Guests: The smaller the guest list, the more intimate the celebration. Consider inviting close family members and friends for a personal experience. With fewer guests, you’ll have more flexibility with your wedding date and location. We wanted small and had 75 people including family and friends.
Wedding Date & Time of Year: Spring months or winter weddings are particularly charming for an intimate wedding in Italy, depending on the weather you prefer. The peak season can bring larger crowds, so choosing off-season months might provide a more exclusive experience. Remember August in Italy is insanely hot. September is a better compromise.
Extra Costs: Smaller weddings may seem like a more budget-friendly option, but the extra costs can add up. For example, hiring best vendors, from florists to photographers, and booking a luxury villa can drive up the budget. Be sure to consult with your local wedding planner about these costs to avoid surprises.
Wedding Vows & Ceremony: Whether you choose a symbolic ceremony or a civil ceremony with the local mayor, make sure to include meaningful wedding vows to personalize your big day.
Dining & Wedding Cake: You can’t go wrong with delicious Italian food. From seafood and pasta to decadent wedding cakes, Italy offers some of the best food in the world. A wine tasting in a family farm or a wine cellar adds an extra touch to your reception.
Best Vendors: Research the best vendors in your location, including florists, photographers, wedding dresses and caterers. A local wedding planner can connect you to trusted professionals who specialize in luxury weddings and exclusive weddings.

4. Romantic Additions to Your Wedding Day

Enhance the romance of your big day with a few special touches:

Boat Rides: Celebrate your wedding with a boat ride on Lake Como or along the Italian Riviera. This intimate experience is a great way to connect with your loved ones or simply enjoy each other’s company.
Outdoor Ceremonies: There’s no better setting for a wedding ceremony than an outdoor ceremony surrounded by the beauty of Italy’s natural landscapes, whether it’s beneath the towering olive trees or in a beautiful garden overlooking the water.
Luxury Villas & Pools: Stay in a luxury villa with an outdoor pool for a glamorous yet intimate experience. The stunning views and private surroundings will make your wedding feel truly special.

5. The Magic of Italy: A Perfect Place for Your Dream Wedding

Planning your dream wedding in Italy means selecting the right place that perfectly suits your vision. Whether you're having an elopement wedding, a winter wedding, or a ceremony surrounded by the beautiful gardens of a luxury villa, Italy offers a wealth of perfect small wedding venues. The country’s hidden gems, like family farms or secret spots, offer the perfect destination for couples seeking a more intimate wedding.

With its romantic atmosphere, rich history, and amazing food and wine, Italy truly is one of the most romantic places to begin your married life. No matter which location you choose, Italy’s beauty and charm will make your wedding ceremony a dream come true, creating memories that will last for a lifetime.