Are you considering eloping in Italy but you need a little bit more convincing or you simply don’t know where to start? You’ve really landed in the perfect place! We talk daily to couples that face your exact same problem, that have ditched the idea of a big traditional wedding and have instead decided to go on an incredible intimate adventure overseas. But they are not quite sure where to start!

As you are probably in the process of gathering information about potential destinations for your elopement, let us tell you why we think Italy is one of the best choices to celebrate your union, but most importantly, let us to help you with all things related to elopements in Italy, whether you’ll opt for a legally binding ceremony or a symbolic one.

So, get ready and let’s start venturing in this fantastic journey!

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We might be a bit biassed when it comes to our home country, but honestly, there are not many other places in Europe that have such a diverse territory and cultural heritage. Even Italian people struggle to consider themselves as “simply” Italians. Yes sure, we are all from Italy, but we all come from a very specific town, close to a very specific city, in a very specific region, set in a very specific area! I guess this is quite understandable, the place we come from and its history is what creates our identity and it is surely something we all feel strongly about.

Whether you’re travelling across Northern Italy, Central Italy, or Southern Italy, you will find yourself surrounded by incredible and utterly different landscapes, cities and heritages, which is exactly what makes Italy such a unique and incredible country to elope to. Also, chances are that you’re coming to this part of the world not only to elope, but also to travel and have a pretty incredible overseas adventure. So what better place to elope to than somewhere you can have an exciting travelling experience too?

Whether you’re a mountain lover, or prefer exploring cultural cities or simply relax in a coastal destination, Italy has it all! And what’s even better, Italy has it all, all year round! Thanks to its very peculiar shape, Italy stretches from North to South, touching different latitudes, making it a country with a constant mild weather, depending where you’re travelling to. For instance, in Sicily, winters extend from December to February, where sunny days can warm up to a delightful 18 degrees Celsius!

Eloping to Italy is a romantic endeavor, and as a foreigner—including citizens of the United States, Australia, and Canada—you can legally marry in Italy by following specific procedures. First things first, you do not need to be a resident to marry in Italy. Also, Italy legally recognises both religious and civil weddings.

We will dig much deeper in this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process.

Both parties must be at least 18 years old. If previously married, you must provide legal proof of the termination of the prior marriage (e.g., divorce decree or death certificate).

• Valid Passport: Serves as your primary identification.
• Birth Certificate: An official long-form version, which may need to be translated into Italian and legalized with an Apostille.
• Nulla Osta (Certificate of No Impediment): A declaration stating there are no legal obstacles to your marriage. The process to obtain this varies by country, as detailed below.
• Atto Notorio: Some nationalities require an additional declaration, called an “Atto Notorio”, made before the Italian authorities or at an Italian embassy/consulate, stating there are no impediments to the marriage.
• Declaration of Intent to Marry: You must appear before the Civil Registrar at the town hall (“Comune”) where the marriage will take place to declare your intent to marry. You will need to contact the chosen Comune in advance to understand their specific requirements and to schedule the ceremony.

• Affidavit (Dichiarazione Giurata):Obtain an affidavit sworn before a U.S. consular officer in Italy, stating that there is no legal impediment to your marriage. For more Info check out the US embassy and Consulates in Italy site.
• Nulla Osta: After obtaining the affidavit, it must be legalized by the local Prefecture (“Prefettura”) to obtain the Nulla Osta.

• Atto Notorio:
  Before departing for Italy, obtain an Atto Notorio from the Italian Embassy or Consulate in Australia, declaring no impediment to the marriage.
• Nulla Osta:
  In Italy, obtain a Nulla Osta by signing a statutory declaration in the presence of an Australian consular officer at the Australian Embassy in Rome or the Consulate-General in Milan.

For more information, visit this link.

• Affidavit: Complete and swear an affidavit stating there is no impediment to the marriage. This can be done in Canada before a notary public or at the Canadian Embassy in Rome.
• Nulla Osta: Submit the sworn affidavit along with supporting documents to the Canadian Embassy in Rome to obtain a declaration containing the relevant information, as Canada does not issue a standard Nulla Osta.

Further information can be found at this link.

Please Note: Before having a religious wedding, you must meet the civil requirements for marriage in Italy, see all the details specified above.

Since Italy is predominantly Catholic, many religious weddings take place in Catholic churches. To have a Catholic wedding that is legally recognized, you need:

• Baptism and Confirmation Certificates (issued within six months before the wedding).
• Prenuptial Inquiry (a premarital investigation done by your local parish priest).
• Permission from Your Local Bishop if neither partner is Italian.
• Pre-Cana Course Certificate (proof of premarital counseling, often required by the Church).
• Mixed Religion Approval (if one partner is not Catholic, a special dispensation from the Church may be needed).

The church must also be authorized by the Italian government to conduct legally recognized religious marriages. If not, you may need a separate civil ceremony.

If you are planning a Protestant, Jewish, or other religious wedding in Italy, requirements will vary based on the specific faith. Many Protestant churches in Italy allow foreign couples to marry, but you will still need civil paperwork.
Jewish weddings can take place in synagogues or outdoor settings, but at least one partner must be Jewish.
Other religious groups (such as Orthodox, Hindu, or Muslim) may require additional documentation or a separate civil marriage.

All documents not in Italian must be accompanied by certified translations. Additionally, documents may require an Apostille or legalization, depending on the issuing country.

The process can be time-consuming. It’s recommended to begin preparations well in advance of your intended wedding date.

Procedures can vary between different Comuni (municipalities) in Italy. Contact the Comune where you plan to marry to confirm specific requirements and to schedule your ceremony.

Even though getting legally married in Italy is absolutely a wonderful option, the majority of our couples (a good 90% we’d say!) still opt for a symbolic ceremony.

There are 3 main reasons why one should opt for a symbolic ceremony:

1. No tricky paperwork to take care of overseas: You’ll spare yourself from the hustle to go through all the Italian legal process, you’ll simply just enjoy all the ups of eloping in a foreign country.
2. You’ll have much More freedom: If you’re considering eloping in Italy and hosting a symbolic ceremony, the world is essentially your oyster when it comes to selecting a beautiful backdrop for your vows. You’ll have the freedom to celebrate your love almost anywhere you desire. However, if you have your heart set on a specific location such as a villa garden, be sure to check for any necessary permissions and associated fees.
3. You’ll save a good chunk of money! The overseas legalities are generally more expensive. What’s more, in most cases you’ll have to travel to Italy well in advance to finish up all the legal process and that is also something that should be considered when budgeting for your elopement in Italy. For a complete breakdown of the costs of an elopement in Italy, check out our comprehensive guide here.

Embracing the natural beauty around you, it’s important to remember to adhere to the Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that these stunning locations remain untouched for others to enjoy. At the core of our elopement planning in Italy is a commitment to seasonal, local, and sustainable practices. By prioritizing these values, we can create a truly memorable and responsible celebration that honors both your love and the breathtaking environment.

The true spirit of eloping lies in embracing freedom and breaking away from tradition. Many couples choose this path precisely because they want to step outside the confines of conventional wedding norms. We completely understand this desire, and it’s actually one of the reasons we’ve chosen to specialize exclusively in elopements! That said, we believe that incorporating certain cherished elements into your symbolic ceremony can enhance its emotional depth.

For some couples, these thoughtful touches can really elevate the experience and make it even more unforgettable.

• A Celebrant – it will make your ceremony so touching and personal.
• Some Meaningful Music
• Confetti – if you’re bringing a handful of guests, confetti always add to the moment and to the pictures
• Vow Booklets – they will be a beautiful keepsake of your elopement in Italy and will look beautiful in the pictures
• Bottle of bubbles – again another very easy way to add to the celebration and the picture moment!

Handfasting is an ancient Celtic tradition where a couple’s hands are tied together with a ribbon or cord to symbolize their union. This ritual represents the binding of two lives and is often performed with vows exchanged during the ceremony. Some couples choose to keep the cord as a keepsake.

A sand ceremony involves the couple pouring different colored sands into a single container, symbolizing their unity. The blending of sand signifies the inseparable nature of their union, making it a popular choice for beach weddings or outdoor ceremonies. This ritual is also inclusive of children or family members blending sands to represent a larger union.

In this ritual, two individual candles, represent their separate lives. The couple then uses these candles to light a central unity candle, symbolizing their joining as one. The flame represents love, guidance, and the merging of families.

A tree planting ceremony symbolizes the couple’s growth together. They plant a sapling during the ceremony, often using soil from their respective hometowns or from a meaningful location. The tree represents strength, deep roots, and the continued nurturing of their relationship over time.

In this ritual, the couple writes heartfelt letters to each other before the wedding and places them in a box with a bottle of wine or another memento. The box is sealed and opened on a milestone anniversary or during difficult times, serving as a reminder of their love and commitment. Some couples choose to repeat this ritual by adding new letters over the years.

For everything related symbolic ceremonies for anyone wishing to elope to Italy, make sure to check our article: Elopement ceremony ideas for your Italian adventure.

Surely you’ll want to make your elopement day the experience of a lifetime, but a beautiful ceremony doesn’t have to break the bank. Even though lots of couples are willing to pay a fee to get married in certain -absolutely worthwhile- places or commit to beautiful flower decorations, there still are a few ways to cut costs without sacrificing the magic of your special day in case you want to keep your budget a bit smaller.

Nature provides the perfect backdrop for a stunning ceremony—whether it’s a beach, forest, garden, or mountaintop. Choosing a scenic outdoor location eliminates the need for expensive fees and creates a naturally breathtaking setting.

Fresh flowers can be a major expense, but they’re not essential. However, budgeting for a bouquet is still in our opinion absolutely worth it. If you love flowers, opt for local, in-season blooms: not only will they be cheaper, but it will also be the most sustainable choice you can make.

(Please note that this is the timeline of an elopement in Tuscany and will simply serve as a general guideline. All days are different and times will change depending on location, time of the year and preferences of the couple.)

11am Getting ready

13pm First Look

13.30pm Ceremony and exchange of vows

14.15pm Bubbles and first toast to your union

14.30pm Light lunch

15.30pm Head off to some lovely exploring

17.30pm Typical Italian aperitivo or Gelato stop

18.30-19.30pm Golden hour pictures

19.30pm Intimate dinner

Italy, with its diverse landscapes, is truly a gem in Europe. From the majestic mountains of the North to the enchanting countryside of Central Italy and the breathtaking coastlines that embrace both the North and South, the beauty of this country is simply unparalleled. As we dive into this guide, you’ll discover some stunning destinations perfect for an unforgettable elopement in Italy. Whether you envision a romantic mountain retreat, a countryside escape, or a coastal ceremony, Italy offers a unique spot that will surely fulfill your dreams and desires.

Let’s keep diving in this incredible journey to your perfect Italian elopement!

Northern Italy offers a diverse array of enchanting locations for couples seeking a memorable elopement.

For couples captivated by breathtaking mountain scenery, Northern Italy offers some of the most spectacular landscapes in Europe. The Dolomites, with their jagged peaks, alpine meadows, and stunning viewpoints like Seceda and Tre Cime di Lavaredo, provide a dramatic and romantic backdrop for an adventurous elopement.

Further west, the Aosta Valley is home to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Europe, offering sweeping vistas and secluded mountain chalets perfect for an intimate ceremony.

Meanwhile, Piedmont’s Langhe region blends rolling vineyards with Alpine views, making it an ideal destination for couples who love both wine country and mountain charm.

For those drawn to lakeside romance, Lake Como remains one of the most iconic destinations, with its elegant villas, cypress-lined shores, and enchanting waterfront towns like Bellagio and Varenna. Beyond Como, the Northern Italy Lake District, which includes Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda, and Lake Orta, provides tranquil settings with breathtaking reflections of the surrounding mountains, offering a serene and picturesque atmosphere for an elopement.

From dramatic peaks to serene lakes, Northern Italy’s alpine landscapes provide endless possibilities for a magical and unforgettable elopement.

If coastal beauty appeals to you, the Cinque Terre—a collection of five picturesque villages along the Ligurian coast—offers a unique and intimate backdrop. With its colorful cliffside houses, winding streets, and stunning sea views, Cinque Terre provides a romantic and secluded setting for your elopement.

Northern Italy is also home to sophisticated cities that blend historical charm with modern elegance. Venice, with its enchanting canals and historic architecture, offers a romantic and timeless setting. Milan, known for its fashion and design, provides a chic urban backdrop. Each city offers unique venues and experiences to make your elopement truly special.

Whether you’re drawn to the tranquility of the mountains, the allure of the coast, or the sophistication of the city, Northern Italy presents a wealth of options to create the perfect setting for your intimate celebration.

If you want to find out everything there is to know about eloping in Northern Italy, check out our comprehensive guide below.

Central Italy is the epitome of romance, with its vineyard-covered hills and medieval towns. Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers golden fields, cypress-lined roads, and rustic farmhouses, making it an idyllic escape. For history lovers, Florence and Rome provide stunning architecture and intimate corners steeped in history. Umbria, often called “Italy’s green heart,” is another hidden gem, with enchanting hilltop villages like Assisi and Spello offering a more secluded, intimate atmosphere.

Help yourself with our comprehensive guide about eloping in Central Italy.

For couples dreaming of a seaside elopement, the Amalfi Coast is an unbeatable choice. Towns like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi feature breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and sun-drenched terraces overlooking the Mediterranean. If you prefer a more off-the-beaten-path destination, Puglia offers charming whitewashed villages like Ostuni and the unique trulli houses of Alberobello. For a truly cinematic experience, Sicily boasts stunning coastal cliffs, historic sites, and the dramatic landscapes of Mount Etna.

Help yourself with our comprehensive guide about eloping in Southern Italy.

Wherever you choose to elope in Italy, each region offers its own unique charm, ensuring your elopement day is magical and unforgettable!

Your elopement day is truly a reflection of you and your partner, a beautiful canvas where you can paint your own unique love story. There are no limits to what you can include—this day is entirely yours to cherish! While the traditional notions of eloping may have changed, today it’s about crafting an intimate and unforgettable experience that you both will treasure forever.

We love to suggest a few thoughtful touches that can elevate your celebration, adding a dash of magic to what is already a momentous occasion. So, let your imagination soar as you plan a day filled with joy, romance, and everything that makes your hearts sing! Embrace the freedom to celebrate your love in a way that feels authentically you.

• Wine Tasting
• Tour of the Tuscan rolling hills on a Vintage Car
• Boat tour at Sunset to enjoy the Coastline from a different point of view
• Hike on a gentle mountain path to enjoy Italy’s incredible peaks
• Helicopter ride
• Olive oil tasting
• Aperitivo with the typical Aperol Spritz while enjoying the famous countryside in Val d’Orcia
• Chairlift ride to one of the most spectacular peaks in Italy, like Mont Blanc
• Gelato stop to cheer in a unique way at your union

Climate: Northern Italy experiences cold winters and mild summers.

Attire Tips:

• Winter (December to February): Opt for heavier fabrics like velvet or satin for dresses and suits to keep warm. Consider long sleeves and add layers such as elegant shawls or wraps. Closed-toe shoes are recommended to protect against the cold.
• Summer (June to August): Choose lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton to stay cool. For suits, avoid thick jackets during late spring and early summer, as it can get very hot.

Breathable materials and lighter colors can enhance comfort.

Climate: Central Italy has hot summers and cool, wet winters.
Attire Tips:

• Spring (March to May): Embrace the mild weather with dresses featuring flowing fabrics that move beautifully in the morning light. A light shawl or wrap might be a good idea to keep warm.For suits, medium-weight fabrics work well, and consider layers that can be added or removed as temperatures change.
• Autumn (September to November): Opt for dresses in rich, earthy tones that complement the fall foliage. Suits in tweed or wool blends provide warmth and style. Closed-toe shoes are ideal, and consider bringing a stylish coat or jacket for cooler evenings.

Climate: Southern Italy enjoys mild winters and hot summers.
Attire Tips:

• Summer (June to August): Given the intense heat, select dresses made of lightweight, breathable fabrics. A light linen suit will also work perfectly for the day.
• Winter (December to February): While milder, winter can still be cool. Choose dresses with sleeves or add a wrap for warmth. Suits in medium-weight fabrics are appropriate, and closed-toe shoes are recommended.

• Footwear: If your elopement involves activities like a boat ride at sunset, depending on the season you chose for your elopement, we always suggest taking a more informal change with you and potentially even a swimming costume.
• Accessories: Incorporate accessories that align with the local culture and environment. For example, a wide-brimmed hat can provide shade in sunny regions, while a stylish umbrella can be both practical and photogenic in wetter areas.

Planning for unexpected weather is crucial when having an elopement in Italy. Here are some practical tips to ensure your day remains magical, even if it rains:

1. Embrace the Rain: Rain can add a romantic and dramatic element to your photos. Be open to the unique beauty that a rainy day can offer.
2. Choose the Right Attire: Select wedding attire that can handle a bit of moisture. For instance, avoid fabrics that easily show water spots and consider shorter hemlines or dresses that are easy to lift to prevent them from getting muddy.
3. Opt for appropriate footwear, such as waterproof shoes or boots, especially if your elopement involves outdoor locations.
4. Accessorize with Umbrellas: Invest in a couple of stylish, clear umbrellas. They not only keep you dry but also look great in photos, adding a whimsical touch to your images.
5. Plan for Covered Locations: Discuss with your photographer and planner about nearby sheltered spots that can serve as alternative photo locations in case of heavy rain.
6. Opt for hairstyles and makeup that can withstand humidity and moisture. Inform your stylist about the possibility of rain so they can plan accordingly.
7. Stay Positive: A positive attitude can make all the difference. Remember, some cultures view rain on a wedding day as a sign of good luck and fertility.

Again, the day is yours and only yours, so you’ll be the one making up the rules! There is not a right or wrong when it comes to inviting a handful of guests to your elopement day, we personally love it either way, whether our couple opts for the most intimate day or whether they want to share the moment with a few other people. ​​Incorporating a select group of close friends and family into your Italian elopement can add depth and shared joy to your intimate celebration. While elopements are traditionally private affairs, inviting a handful of guests allows you to maintain the personal essence of the occasion while sharing it with those dearest to you. This approach ensures that your elopement remains focused on your unique love story, enhanced by the presence of loved ones who will cherish these memories alongside you.

You made it!!

Well, done, you made it to the end of this Comprehensive guide to Elope in Italy! If you are intrigued and you cannot wait to keep exploring, then please get all the help you’ll ever need with all the resources you’ll find on our blog:

I guess this is all! If you like what you see and you want to enjoy a team of dedicated and fun elopement photographers based in Italy, feel free to get in touch, we can’t wait to hear all about your plans!