couple laying on the wooden boat during their lago di braies elopement day

How to Elope in Italy the Unique Way in 2025

Everything You Need to Know Before Eloping in Italy

Planning to elope in Italy? Look no further! You’re in the right place!

We’ve compiled a complete informational guide on the Italian elopement experiences, including all you need to know, from how to get legally married in Italy, the best Italy elopement locations (including some pretty unique hidden gems), and answer the most asked question “How Much does an Italy elopement cost?”.

We’ve worked as Northern Italy elopement photographers and guides at many private elopements and intimate weddings in Italy, and we’ll be happy to share our expertise with you and help you elope in Italy!

Don’t hesitate to contact us for any help you may need.

a photograph of the beautiful couple eloping at Lago di Braies in Northern Italy, hugging by the lake

8 steps of Planning your Elopement in Italy

  1. Choose your elopement location
  2. Choose the best time to elope in Italy
  3. Understand the legalities and gather documents to get married (including step-by-step instructions)
  4. Plan your journey to Italy (plane tickets, travel tips and more)
  5. Book the accommodation for your elopement
  6. Book your activities
  7. Understand your budget
  8. Italy elopement packages
A bird view photo of the eloping couple standing by the hand at the sunset in the mountains of Italy

Why Would you want to elope in Italy?

Italy is one of the most romantic and beautiful countries in the world. It is a motherland of pizza, invaluable masterpieces of Renaissance artists in Florence or Rome, creamy gelato, and the tastiest pasta. This country strikes in its diversity! You can get married in the epic Italian Dolomites, bathe in the sunshine of Sicilian beaches, go to Venice and be astounded by the stunning Gothic palazzi, or chill out at some luxurious villa in Tuscany vineyards.
Italian nature is a true paradise on earth, no wonder it is the only country with 59 UNESCO World Heritage sites. All this makes it a perfect elopement destination with endless possibilities for romantic couples and those who are wild at heart. 

Not enough reasons to elope in Italy?! Here are more:

  • Italy’s generally mild and pleasant climate makes it an ideal destination for Italian elopement, with beautiful weather most of the year, particularly in spring and fall.
  • From the stunning coastlines of the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre to the serene countryside of Umbria and Tuscany, this stunning destination offers diverse landscapes to suit any style of an intimate wedding in Italy.
  • Italians are known for their hospitality, ensuring that you’ll feel warmly welcomed as you celebrate your love.
  • After eloping, you can seamlessly travel into a honeymoon in one of many romantic destinations, like the Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, or the Italian Alps.
a close up portrait of the just married couple sitting in the boat at the alpine lake in the boat on their elopement day
a photo of the couple walking holding each other by the waist walking toward the sunset in the field of Tuscany during their intimate Italian wedding

Can You Elope in Italy?

Yes, you can! Foreigners can legally marry in Italy as well, although this will demand a little dive into the paperwork. Eloping is wonderful because there are no set rules. Whether you choose the beautiful shores of Sicily or the stunning hills of Tuscany, what’s important is going with your partner and committing to each other for better or worse. You can decide where to go when to do it, and whether to have friends there or make it official right away. Read on and we’ll cover everything you need to know about a hassle-free eloping to Italy.

a beautiful photo of the wedding rings lying on the book just before the wedding ceremony in the church


What You Need to Get Married in Italy

Age Requirements:
Both parties must be 18 years or older.
Valid Passports:
Both parties must have valid passports.
Birth Certificates:
Original or certified copies are required.
Certificate of No Impediment:
An affidavit or “Dichiarazione Giurata” ( Certificate of No Impediment) is needed, proving that you are free to marry, and must be obtained from your home country.
Marital Status Certificate:
Bear in mind, that the Marital Status certificate is only valid for 4 months after it has been issued. If either party is divorced, a final divorce decree is necessary. If widowed, the death certificate of the former spouse is required.
Marriage Declaration:
Marriage Declaration at the town hall in Italy where you plan to get married.
A Nulla Osta:
A Nulla Osta (permission to get married in Italy).

Bring all required documents to the Marriage Office (Ufficio Matrimoni) at the town hall where you’ll get married and make a “Declaration of Intention to Marry” (Dichiarazione di Matrimonio) before a civil registrar. This must be done several months in advance, as requirements may vary by nationality. You can choose a civil ceremony at the town hall or a religious ceremony at a church. For more information check the U.S. Embassy in Italy.

If after reading this all, you think that it’s too complicated, you can always get married in your home country and plan a destination elopement in the incrEdible ItalIAn NaTUre. More than half of the couples we work with, decide to go this way, which makes their elopement day much more relaxed.

an optional portrait of the eloping couple standing face to face during their ceremony in Italy


Should you Get Legally Married or Have a Symbolic elopement Ceremony?

Symbolic ceremonies give you the freedom to elope anywhere you like (just like in this photo) and can be as intimate as just the two of you, or you can ask a close friend or loved one to officiate. If you handle the legal aspects of your marriage in your home country beforehand, you can focus entirely on the special and personal moments during your intimate Italian wedding.

In my experience, the most genuine moments happen when the ceremony involves just the couple or when a close friend leads it. Even if it’s only the two of you, thoughtful planning is key to creating a meaningful ceremony.

The Best Places to Elope in Italy

Unique Italian elopement locations

a gorgeous wide shot of the intimate elopement vow ceremony in the mountains of Italy
a photo of the view at Lago di Como

Lake Como

Lago di Como (Lario) is the third largest Italian lake (after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore), located at the foot of the Alps. It offers a beautiful scenic view and attracts tourists from all over the world. Visit Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio for the romantic atmosphere of colorful Italian towns, and admire the chic villas and palaces that offer terrific lake-and-mountain views. If you’re planning to elope with a stunning backdrop in your pictures, this place is perfect. 
We recommend this place for a romantic elopement but suggest visiting Lake Como during the off-season to enjoy more privacy in the lap of nature.

tuscany

Tuscany

Tuscany is a region in central Italy. Florence is the capital of these lands famous for its landscapes, history, art, and culture, and is considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. 
Many tourists head to Tuscany for its cypress, olive, vineyards, and pretty villages with castles. Here you can also taste an iconic red wine and delicious Italian cuisine. If you are planning your Italian elopement in this region, your photographs will have an awe-inspiring backdrop and you’ll enjoy your experience discovering these beautiful lands.

positano

Positano

Positano is another great place to elope. It is located on southern coast and it’s a village on the Amalfi Coast. Its bright and vivid houses, orange and lemon groves tower above the beach on the cliff and make an iconic view. Here you can roam the charming streets, savor fresh seafood at local restaurants with just spectacular views, start on a hike, or take a day trip to Pompeii. Whatever you are up to, this region has so much to offer and will not disappoint your expectations.

Lago di Braies

Lago di Braies (Lake Braies) is one of the most popular and Instagram-famous places to visit in Northern Italy. The crystal emerald water of the lake reflects Croda del Becco – a towering massif, which creates a breathtaking picture. Whether you plan to elope at Lago di Braies or just have a symbolic ceremony at the pier – this place is a wow for any kind of event and photography. Be sure to learn about prices and traffic restrictions during the summer at Lago di Braies official website.

Amalfi

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is located between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salernoin. The Amalfi Coast beaches are among the most beautiful in the world and famous for their crystal clear water. This region is famous for its unparalleled views and divine nature. It has amazing hiking trails: the Path of the Gods from Positano to Agerola will show you breathtaking panoramas. Amalfi’s small villages are enchanted with their ancient atmosphere and the iconic Cathedral of Amalfi is a must-see. 

Umbria

Umbria

Umbria is known for its medieval towns and lush landscapes of olive groves. It has every charm that Tuscany does, but here it feels more secluded and less crowded. We would advise visiting such towns as Spoleto, Orvieto, and Assisi where you can be lost in time and plunge into the ancient atmosphere of bygone eras.

Matera

Matera

It is a unique historical monument that shows evidence of human settlements from the Palaeolithic to nowadays. The place is stunningly beautiful and has a lot of museums and rupestrian cave churches that preserved beautiful frescoes of ancient times. We suggest hiring a local guide for a marvelous travel-through-times experience.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a coastal part of Liguria, in the northwest of Italy. It consists of five fishing villages with bright vivid houses scattered on top of the cliffs. The sea, jaw-dropping views at every turn, great food, and wine attract a lot of tourists to this area. Even though during high season Cinque Terre is overcrowded, the place enchants with its idyllic picture.

Apulia

Apulia

Apulia (also called Puglia) is the southernmost region and is known for its unique circular dry stone huts (trulli), incredible cliffs along the beaches, the soft sands, and the gentle waves of the Apulian coastline. Strolling through ancient puglian towns you’d rather think you appear at some magic fairy place than a real one.

Sicily

Sicily

Sicily is a picture postcard island in the Mediterranean. There are stunning Baroque hilltop towns, delectable wines, mouthwatering cuisine, over 25 castles, mount Etna, sandy shorelines, and a transparent sea that’ll leave a long-lasting impression on everyone planning their special day in the outstanding climate.

Sardinia

Sardinia

Sardinia is the second-largest Mediterranean island with an abundance of startling views that easily win your heart. Sardinia is famous for its Caribbean-blue sea and soft golden sands, quaint villages, bright festivals, dramatic cliffs, pink flamingos, impressively vast and beautiful national parks and so much more. Seekers of adventure come here for good hiking, snorkeling, surfing, or tasting a true Mediterranean life. 


Still looking for photography & Videography?

Awarded Italy Elopement Photographers

Your Italy Elopement Photographers are one of the Most Important Decisions

We are Jane & Anton Iskra – a duo of wedding and elopement photographers and wedding planning experts.
We understand that choosing a photographer for your special day can be a little bit overwhelming. Italy is great and we are eager to share our passion for its landscapes, dramatic mountains, and open-hearted people with you.

We’ll be happy to be your destination elopement photographers!

Best Time for eloping in Italy

We strongly believe that the best time to elope in Italy is May to the end of November. This is the most comfortable, warm time of the year.

It’s also known to be pretty crowded during the high season (June – to mid-September) when the weather is hot and appropriate for holidays by the sea. But if you are planning a summer elopement and want to combine it with a honeymoon or vacation – it’s a brilliant idea!

However, if you are not a huge fan of summer (as it can be REALLY hot in Italy during summertime), we would recommend planning for such months as October, November, April, or May for your elopement. The weather is already comfortable and warm, fitting great for a wide range of activities as well as for taking fantastic pictures of your Italian elopement.

If you are all into skiing or snowboarding and eager to combine active sport, and sightseeing with the magic celebration in a snowy wonderland, then winter (December – to March) is your season especially if you plan a North Italy wedding.

a couple enjoying the the sunset on their elopement in Italy
a photo of the beautiful sunny day with the boats and the waterline at Lake Garda in Italy

Best Accommodation for Your Elopement in Italy

We’ve decided to help you in planning and created a comprehensive list of the best Italian villas and beautiful hotels to stay in during your elopement day. They all have different styles and vibes but have amazing light for the perfect getting-ready photos and portraits inside the venue. They are spread around the most beautiful Italian regions, so you can easily find the one for you.
Here is the list of our favorite accommodations in Italy:

Borgo Santo Pietro, Tuscany

Villa Cimbrone, Amalfi Coast

Castello di Vicarello, Tuscany

Masseria Torre Coccaro, Puglia

Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como

La Posta Vecchia, Rome Coast

How to Get to Italy?

Major cities like Rome, Milan, Venice, and Florence are well-connected by direct flights from numerous international destinations. For travelers from the USA and Canada, direct flights are available from cities like New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, and Montreal, while others may require a brief layover in Europe. Popular connection points within Europe include London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam. Several airlines, including Alitalia, Delta, American Airlines, and Lufthansa, offer frequent flights to Italy. Once you arrive, the extensive train network makes it easy to explore the entire country.

Few Tips for Planning Your Journey to Italy


Track Flight Prices
Use tools like Google Flights, or Hopper to monitor flight prices. Setting up alerts can help you snag the best deals. Booking your flights early often leads to better prices, as costs can rise quickly during peak seasons.

Consider the Shoulder Seasons
Traveling in late spring or early fall can offer a more relaxed experience with fewer tourists. The weather is still pleasant, allowing you to explore all the sights and beauties without the summer crowds.

Travel Light
Narrow streets and historical sites often require a bit of walking, so packing light is a good idea. A versatile wardrobe, a good daypack, and comfortable shoes are key. Don’t forget adapters for your electronics and a portable charger to keep your devices powered up.

Stay Connected
Purchasing a local SIM card can be a cost-effective way to stay connected. Alternatively, check if your mobile provider offers affordable international plans. Many hotels, cafes, and public areas offer free Wi-Fi, so you can stay in touch with loved ones or share your Italian adventures online.

Enjoy Your Time
Italy is all about enjoying life—take your time to savor the food, explore the stunning landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history. Whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins, relaxing in a vineyard, or taking in the art, make sure to soak in every moment!

A portrait of the wedding couple at sunset at the beach of Sicily on their elopement day
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12 Unique Things to Do When Eloping in Italy

  1. Take a Pasta-Making Class Together: Learn how to make authentic Italian pasta with a local chef. You’ll leave with a full belly and a new skill!
  2. Explore the Amalfi Coast by Boat: Charter a private boat and spend the day cruising along the coast, stopping to swim in hidden coves and enjoy fresh seafood.
  3. Go Truffle Hunting in Piedmont: Join a local guide and their truffle-sniffing dog to hunt for these culinary treasures. Celebrate your find with a gourmet truffle meal.
  4. Ride a Hot Air Balloon Over Tuscany: Soar over the rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval villages at sunrise. Don’t forget the champagne toast afterward!
  5. Stroll Through the Gardens of Villa d’Este: Wander hand-in-hand through this UNESCO World Heritage Site near Rome, filled with fountains, terraces, and Renaissance charm.
  6. Visit a Hidden Island in Venice: Escape the crowds and take a ferry to Torcello or Burano for colorful houses, peaceful canals, and a slower pace.
  7. Relax in Thermal Hot Springs in Saturnia: Unwind in the natural cascading hot springs of Saturnia. Perfect for a romantic and rejuvenating escape.
  8. Go Wine Tasting in a Tuscan Cellar: Sample the best local wines in a centuries-old cellar. Pair with fresh cheeses, cured meats, and olive oil for a full experience.
  9. Take a Vespa Tour Through the Countryside: Hop on a vintage Vespa and explore scenic backroads, stopping at charming villages and breathtaking viewpoints.
  10. Dine Under the Stars in a Seaside Cave: Book a romantic dinner at Grotta Palazzese, where the ocean waves are your soundtrack for the evening.
  11. Hike the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods): Trek this famous Amalfi Coast trail for jaw-dropping views and a sense of adventure.
  12. Take a Romantic Gondola Ride at Night: Drift through Venice’s canals under the moonlight, enjoying the quiet beauty of the city after the crowds have gone.


How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Italy?

Italy has a high price tag, especially speaking about larger destination weddings with guests, due to its extravagant venues, popularity among tourists, and cost of the services. The price for a luxury destination wedding in Italy with 100 guests is around 64,000 (around $68,000). The specific expenses depend on location, wedding venue, and catering choices.
The average cost of an intimate elopement in Italy is approximately 13,000 Euro (around $13,000), and you can combine it with a romantic honeymoon right after, which can save you quite a lot!
Below, you’ll find an approximate total of the costs of getting married or eloping in Italy (based on the expenses of just you two).

Italy Budget Elopement Cost

The average cost of a budget elopement in Italy is 11,550 Euro, which includes:

  • Marriage license (symbolic ceremony): €0
  • Accommodation for 3 days: €600
  • Car rental: €300
  • Hair + make-up: €400
  • Attires: €2500
  • Bouquet: €450
  • Elopement activity (e.g., boat rental): €500
  • Dinner at the cafe: €300
  • Photographer (6 hours coverage): €6,500
a stunning bride's portrait in the flowy wedding dress with beautiful light

italy Luxury Wedding Cost

The average cost of a luxury destination wedding in Italy is €47,900 Euro, which includes:

  • Officiant: €2000
  • Accommodation: €3500+
  • Car rental: €1000+
  • Hair + make-up: €800+
  • Attires: €5000
  • Bouquet: €600
  • Wedding Venue: €10000+
  • Wedding Planner: €2000+
  • Musicians: €1000+
  • Helicopter/boat tour: €2000+
  • Photographers (12 hours): €12,000+
  • Videographers (12 hours): €8,000+


best Wedding & Elopement Vendors for your Italy Elopement

Recommended Vendors in Tuscany

Recommended Vendors at Amalfi Coast

Recommended Vendors in Puglia

an epic fire show during the wedding reception at the wedding in Italy

Our Italy Elopement Photography Packages start at 6500 Euros with an average spend of €7300 and depend on the add-ons and amount of working time. All of the packages include:

  • Work of a 2 photographer team for duration of 8 hours
  • Location Assistance
  • Vendor & Accommodation Recommendations
  • Custom Timeline
  • Unlimited Planning Assistance
  • Drone photography coverage 
  • Customized online gallery of high-resolution images and print store

Prices START at €6500

the wedding photograph of the lgbt couple standing by the water with their dog on their elopement day in Italy
wedding photograph of the happy kissing couple during their elopement in the Italian Dolomites

Frequently Asked Questions


Yes! People from around the globe can legally marry in Italy. You can learn more about it from our elopement guide.

Italy has something to offer for everyone! There are epic mountains in the Dolomites, vast vineyards in Sardinia, picturesque valleys with cypress trees, luscious hills in Tuscany, the best beaches of Sicily or the Amalfy Coast -you name it! We hope our guide on how to elope in Italy will be helpful and inspiring for you.

You need 3 main documents to get legally married in Italy, they are Affidavit, Atto Notorio, and Declaration of Intention to marry. You’ll need to make sure all the documents are correct for a successful legal marriage in Italy.

Italy is great for any kind of elopement, from chic customized events at splendid villas to sweet romantic ones in the mountains or at the lake. It can offer you the most beautiful places in the world for a stunning elopement.

The main requirements for eloping in Italy are choosing the right place, time, and elopement vendors if it is going to be a big event. A wedding planner can take most of the hassle concerning the preparation, legality, communication, and a lot more.

In Italy, same-sex couples can marry through a civil union. To establish a civil union, the two in love need to make an appointment with the local town hall. Then they come at the designated time to make a declaration to the registrar of the town hall in the presence of two witnesses.

an emotional elopement ceremony in the mountains of Italy

More Resources on eloping in Europe

How to Elope in Iceland
Europe Elopement Packages

Get In Touch
Jane Iskra

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