Italy is a popular destination for weddings, thanks to its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and romantic culture.

However, planning an Italian wedding can be expensive, with costs ranging from a few thousand euros to tens of thousands of euros, depending on the location, guest list, and other factors.

The Cost of an Italian wedding 2023

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the cost of an Italian wedding, including the average prices for different aspects of the wedding and tips for reducing costs without sacrificing the dream wedding experience.

The cost of an Italian wedding varies depending on several factors, including the location, number of guests, and the type of wedding you want to have.

According to a survey by WeddingWire, the average cost of a wedding in Italy is around €30,000, although this can vary widely depending on the location and other factors and of course the upper price range is limitless.

Italian wedding Costs

Here is a breakdown of some of the main costs you can expect when planning an Italian wedding:

Venue

The venue is one of the most significant costs and important decisions associated with an Italian wedding, with the rental cost depending on the location, size of the venue, and the time of year you plan to get married. For example, a venue in Tuscany could cost from €6,500 for 2-3 nights exclusive use, or  €25,000+ for a week-long luxury venue.

Wedding planner

A wedding planner can help you navigate the complexities of planning an Italian wedding and coordinate with vendors, venues, and other service providers. The cost of a wedding planner varies but can range from €1,500 to €5,000 or more, depending on the level of service you require.

Some venues will be able to assist and also recommended suppliers they have used and worked with at their venue, hiring a wedding planner is down to your preference.

Celebrant

If you are looking to have a formal celebrant lead your wedding then this can cost around €600 for a professional.

How Much Does a Destination Wedding in Italy Cost?

Catering and beverages

Food and drinks are an essential part of an Italian wedding and can cost between €75 to €200 per person, depending on the quality of the food, number of courses and the drinks you choose. For example, a four-course meal with wine and champagne could cost around €150 per person.

Don’t forget drinks reception, canapés, it is also worthing thinking about a pre wedding dinner and reception the night before, pizza party and drinks is a great idea and something to budget for.

Photography and videography

Hiring a professional photographer and videographer is essential to capture the memories of your special day. The cost of photography and videography can vary widely depending on the quality and experience of the vendor, but can range from €1,000 to €5,000 or more.

A wedding photographer is a must and a videographer is certainly more and more popular, when looking at hiring a wedding photographer see if they also offer videography too.

Entertainment

Italian weddings often include live music or a DJ to provide entertainment for the guests. The cost of entertainment can range from €500 to €5,000, depending on the type of entertainment and the duration of the performance.

Transport

If all the guests cannot stay at the venue or there is no accommodation then ensure you budget for transport to and from the venue, a coach from a nearby hotel for your guests to the wedding could be arranged and then taxis or a coach back in the evening. As a guide shuttle buses can cost around €800 for a 28 seater, it is important to consider the distance and amount of guests you will need to assist.

Accommodation

If you are hosting guests for several days, accommodation costs can be a significant expense. Consider renting a villa or apartment for the guests, which can be more cost-effective than individual hotel rooms.

Extra activities

Many couples choose to extend their wedding celebration with additional activities, such as wine tours, boat trips, or other excursions. While these activities can be fun and memorable, they can also add to the overall cost of the wedding.

Tips for reducing the cost of an Italian wedding

If you’re planning an Italian wedding on a budget, there are several ways to reduce costs without sacrificing the dream wedding experience. Here are some tips to help you save money on your Italian wedding:

Choose a less popular location: While popular locations such as Tuscany or Amalfi Coast are beautiful, they can be expensive. Other locations such as Puglia or Umbria, which are just as beautiful but can be less expensive.

Reduce the guest list: The number of guests you invite can significantly impact the cost of your wedding. Consider having a smaller, more intimate wedding with only close family and friends.

Consider a weekday wedding: Weekend weddings are often more expensive than weekday weddings. Consider having your wedding on a weekday to save money. Also looking outside the peak seasons can also offer a reduced cost depending on the venue and location.

DIY decorations: Rather than hiring a professional decorator, consider DIY decorations, which can be more cost-effective and add a personal touch to your wedding.

Avoid peak season: Getting married during peak season, typically from May to September, can be more expensive. Consider getting married during the off-season to save money.

Where to get married in Italy?

Italy is a country with a diverse range of regions, each with its own unique character, landscape, and cultural traditions. The choice of location for your wedding in Italy can have a significant impact on the overall cost, as some regions are more popular and therefore more expensive than others.

Here are some of the most popular areas for destination weddings in Italy:

Tuscany

Tuscany is one of the most popular destinations for weddings in Italy, thanks to its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming hilltop towns. Weddings in Tuscany typically take place in historic villas, farmhouses, or castles, and can be quite expensive due to the region’s popularity.

Wedding costs in Tuscany can range from €25,000 to €50,000 or more, depending on the venue, catering, and other factors.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is known for its stunning coastal views, colorful villages, and delicious seafood. Weddings in the Amalfi Coast are typically held in cliff-top villas or hotels.

Wedding costs in the Amalfi Coast can range from €30,000 to €60,000 or more, depending on the venue, catering, and other factors.

Venice

Venice is one of the most romantic cities in the world, known for its canals, bridges, and historic architecture. Wedding costs in Venice can range from €30,000 to €50,000 or more, depending on the venue, catering, and other factors.

Lake Como

Lake Como is a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains and charming towns. Weddings in Lake Como are typically held in historic villas or hotels, and can be quite expensive due to the region’s popularity and exclusive venues.

Wedding costs in Lake Como can range from €25,000 to €60,000 or more, depending on the venue, catering, and other factors.

Puglia

Puglia is a region in southern Italy known for its white-sand beaches, olive groves, and traditional stone houses. Weddings in Puglia are typically held in masserias, which are traditional farmhouses converted into elegant wedding venues.

Wedding costs in Puglia can be more affordable than other regions, with costs ranging from €15,000 to €30,000 or more, depending on the venue, catering, and other factors.

Other popular areas for weddings in Italy include Umbria, Sicily, and the Italian Riviera.

Thing to consider when getting married in Italy

  1. Legal requirements: Couples who are not residents of Italy must follow certain legal requirements to get married in Italy. This includes obtaining a Nulla Osta, a document that certifies that there are no legal impediments to the marriage, and completing other paperwork. It’s essential to research the legal requirements well in advance and work with a wedding planner who can help you navigate the process.
  2. Cultural considerations: Italy has a rich history and culture, and incorporating local traditions into your wedding can make it even more special. However, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions and work with a wedding planner who understands the local culture.

In summary, an Italian wedding can be a beautiful and memorable experience, but it’s essential to understand the costs and plan accordingly.

By following the tips above and working with a trusted wedding planner, you can create the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.

What are the costs to elope in Italy?

The cost of eloping in Italy can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the location, the type of ceremony, the time of year, and the services included. Here are some typical costs to consider when planning an elopement in Italy:

  1. Legal fees: If you are not a resident of Italy, you will need to pay for legal fees, including obtaining a Nulla Osta and other required documents. These fees can vary depending on the location and complexity of the paperwork. A celebrant can cost from €600.
  2. Ceremony fees: If you plan to have a symbolic ceremony, the cost can vary depending on the location and the services provided. For example, a ceremony in a public park may be free, while a ceremony in a private villa or castle may cost several thousand euros.
  3. Photography and videography: Professional photography and videography are essential to capture the memories of your elopement in Italy. The cost can vary depending on the location and the services provided, but you can expect to pay anywhere from €1,000 to €5,000 or more for a high-quality package.
  4. Accommodation: Depending on the location and duration of your elopement, you may need to pay for accommodation. The cost can vary widely depending on the location and the type of accommodation, but you can expect to pay several hundred euros per night for a high-end hotel or villa.
  5. Transportation: If you plan to travel to multiple locations during your elopement, transportation costs can add up quickly. Consider renting a car or hiring a driver to help you get around.

Overall, the cost of eloping in Italy can range from a few thousand euros to tens of thousands of euros, depending on the services included and the location.