Elope in Northern Italy | A Guide to Elope in Northern Italy

When you think of an Italian elopement, you probably envision rolling hills, colourful coastal villages, crystal clear waters, and the iconic La Dolce Vita landscapes. Italy is all of this and so much more!

Let’s talk about Northern Italy, a region that boasts some of the most precious gems in Europe. If you’re considering eloping in Northern Italy, you’re in for a unique experience away from the bustling crowds. This region offers a different side of Italy that’s equally stunning. From rich history and culture to sophisticated food and wine, from charming lakeside atmospheres to breathtaking mountain vistas, Northern Italy has it all.

If you’re a lover of cultural cities and rugged coastlines that harbour hidden idyllic spots (hello, Le Cinque Terre Area!!), then Northern Italy is calling your name. So, why not consider this lesser-known, yet equally enchanting part of Italy for your romantic elopement?

If this resonates with you, then you’re ready to embark on the quest to find the perfect location for your elopement in Northern Italy.

Keep in mind that when you choose to elope to Italy, you’ll likely have the opportunity to travel around the country. So, when you’re selecting the destination for your Italian elopement, consider not only the location itself, but also the surrounding areas and the travel options available. Eloping in Northern Italy promises to be the journey of a lifetime, with countless destinations to explore. This holds true for Italy as a whole, making it an incredible destination for eloping couples.

When you’re planning to elope in Italy, it’s vital to choose a local photographer who knows the country well. You’ll need someone who can not only help you plan your elopement but also assist you in making the most of your journey in our beautiful country!

Your options are endless, so let’s not waste our time and let’s start exploring this wonderful area.

Let’s talk about the stunning Western Alps, also known as ‘our mountains’ – a place close to our heart since we’ve been spending our holidays there since forever. They extend between Piedmont and Aosta Valley.

While the Western Alps may not be as famous as their eastern sisters, such as the Dolomites, they are an equally breathtaking destination for an elopement in Northern Italy.

Home to the 5 highest mountain peaks in Italy, including the majestic Mont Blanc (the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe), the Western Alps are a paradise for avid hikers, mountaineers, and climbers. With its turquoise lakes, lush green valleys, and countless mountain peaks to conquer, the region offers a varied and awe-inspiring landscape just waiting to be explored.

If you’re seeking solitude, silence, beauty and adventure for your Italian elopement, then look no further than the Italian Alps!

*For the climbers lovers, the area offers plenty of great crags and routes, of particular note, Valle stretta near Bardonecchia is where sport climbing was born and where you can still climb on some old school, traditional routes that will challenge even the strongest climbers *

Curious to see what it looks like to elope on Mont Blanc, the highest mountain peak in Europe? Then have a little taste below! This is just one of the many off the beaten track destinations we can take you to if you decide to work with us on your elopement day..

• Polenta concia, polenta mixed with local mountain cheeses
• Polenta e spezzatino di cervo, polenta mixed with deer stew
• Bagna cauda with vegetable selection
• Local cheeses (tome locali) and cured meats (affettati locali)
• Antipasto alla Piemontese

You can accompany your meals with some of the best wines of the nearby wine region Le Langhe (more on this in the Piedmond and Langhe section). Highly recommended red wines are Dolcetto, Barbera, Nebbiolo and Barolo.
If it is white wines what you prefer, you will want to try any of these: Arneis, Favorita or Erbaluce.

• Fonduta
• Tegole dolci valdostane
• Polenta Concia
• Seupa à la vapelenentse
• Coffee alla Valdostana drunk with the typical “Grolla dell’amicizia”
• Fontina Valdostana
• Cotoletta alla Valdostana (Cutlet Aosta Valley style)

Aosta Valley has a wide range of DOC and DOCG wines, to name a few: Müller Thurgau, Mayolet, Petite Arvine, Fumin, Petit Rouge, Muscat petit grain, Gewürztraminer.

Closest Airports: Caselle Airport, Turin – Malpensa Airport, Milan

There are plenty of train connections but they will only take you up to a certain point. The best way to reach your final destination in the mountains will be by car. A 4×4 car is most recommended, especially if you are planning to elope in Northern Italy in Winter!

If you’re dreaming of eloping in Northern Italy and wondering about the best time to visit the Italian Alps, we’ve got some insider tips for you. Whether you’re craving a snowy mountain adventure or a tranquil springtime escape, Northern Italy has something to offer year-round.

If you’re all about the snow and winter sports, the winter months are perfect for you. Just try to steer clear of the busiest ski holiday periods in January and February to avoid the crowds. But if you’re like us and prefer a quieter, more intimate setting, September is where it’s at. The weather is still beautiful, the tourist crowds have thinned out, and you’ll be treated to stunning colours and light that make for an unforgettable elopement experience.

And let’s not forget about Spring! Picture this: eloping in Northern Italy in April and May means gentle spring breezes, warm sun, and a sense of peace and tranquility that’s hard to beat.

Now, here’s the inside scoop: if you want to avoid the crowds and scorching temperatures, it’s best to steer clear of July and August. These are the high holiday season months, and trust us, you’ll thank us for avoiding the worst of the summer heat.

So, there you have it! No matter what kind of elopement experience you’re after, Northern Italy has something to offer year-round!

• Gran Paradiso National Park
• Courmayeur (for hikes, treks or “simply” views of Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa)
• Cervinia, where you can enjoy anything Matterhorn related
• Monviso – Pian del Re, Pian della Regina and Lago Fiorenza
• Moncenisio
• Forte di Exilles and Forte di Fenestrelle
• Sacra di San Michele

Here below you can find a comprehensive guide about Eloping in the Italian Alps where you will find everything you need to know and more about the locations above.

When it comes to Northern Italy, t’s not just about the captivating cities like Venice, Milan, and Turin or the majestic Alps. We can’t overlook the stunning lakes that make it an ideal place for an elopement in Italy. From the well-known beauties like Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, and Lake Iseo to the hidden gems like Lake Orta, there’s no shortage of picturesque spots where you can say “I do.” Italy’s northern lakes are a dreamy escape for an Italian elopement.

The Northern Italy lakes boast an ethereal atmosphere, with their tranquil waters and unique light tone that can’t be found anywhere else. The pristine mountains that surround the lakes perfectly complement the elegant villas and luxurious Italian-style gardens along the shore, adding to the area’s undeniable charm. It’s easy to see why eloping in Northern Italy is so popular – the beauty of this place is simply unmatched!

If you want to be close to the water but also be surrounded by mountains, a pre-alpine lake would be the right choice for your elopement. For the adventure lovers, the italian lakes offer a great selection of outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling, to ‘vie ferrate’ and watersports.

For the romantic ones, the idyllic landscape offers plenty of opportunities for gentle strolls on the lake shores or through the characteristic villages, intimate dinners with incredible views, private boat tours and relaxing getaways in one of the many spas of the region.

High season on the lakes runs from Easter to October, but, if you can choose, we would really recommend April, May and June or, even more, September, when temperatures are still warm, but there will be much fewer people around.

• Riva del Garda
• Peschiera del Garda
• Sirmione
• Malcesine
• Desenzano del Garda

• Santa Caterina del Sasso
• Isole Borromee (Isola Bella – Isola Madre)
• Stresa
• Verbania and the Natural Reserve of FondoToce
• For the hiking lovers, Monte Rosa, Formazza, valle Vigezzo e il parco nazionale della Val Grande

• Orta
• San Giulio
• Mottarone
• Sacro Monte d’Orta

When so close to Milan you cannot not try il Risotto alla Milanese (Risotto Milanese style, infused with saffron) or Cotoletta alla Milanese (Cutlet Milanese style). You will be also tempted by fresh lake fish and polenta concia (cheese topped polenta)

The Northern Italy lake regions also produce a variety of crisp white wines (like Lugana), hearty reds (like Valpollicella) and the world-famous sparkling wine, Franciacorta.

Closest Airports

Best options – Malpensa, Milan – Orio Al Serio, Bergamo
Alternative options: Caselle, Turin – Valerio Catullo, Verona

Train

On Maggiore Lake it is worth mentioning the iconic train line Vigezzina-Centovalli that connects the Italian town Domodossola to Swiss Locarno. The Alpine route is so scenic that is considered among the best train rides in Europe<

Boat

Cruising around either by private boat tour or ferry services will allow you to experience the quintessential lake atmosphere.

Since half of our family comes from there, it is not surprising that Turin is among our dearest Italian cities. First capital of Italy, this city is rich in history and culture and it is beautifully set between gentle hills on one side and the foot of the Alps on the other.

And now, let’s talk about the charming city of Turin. Picture this: you’re strolling along the tree-lined avenues, admiring the elegant buildings, and soaking in the unmistakable French influence that permeates the air. But wait, there’s more to Turin than meets the eye! This city has a character so distinctive that you can’t help but fall in love with it.

One of the highlights of Turin is the enchanting Roman quarter, which comes alive at night with bustling restaurants and bars offering the famous Aperitivo or Apericena. Imagine buying just a drink and then treating yourself to a lavish buffet of local delights, from starters to desserts!

Turin is also home to stunning baroque churches, chapels, and palaces, as well as old-fashioned tramways that add to its unique charm. And let’s not forget Piazza Vittorio, one of the largest squares in Europe, with its picturesque views of the river Po and the Gran Madre Church. Oh, and the city’s three Gallerie Coperte (arcades) – Galleria Subalpina, Galleria Umberto, and Galleria San Federico – are adorned with rich decor and high-end shops that are a treat for the eyes.

For the mystical souls out there, Turin’s strong tradition of esoterism is sure to pique your interest. It’s no wonder that the city is considered one of the most magical in Europe, if not the world.

And here’s something for the foodies – Turin is one of the most vegan-friendly cities in Italy, boasting a considerable number of wonderful vegan cafes and restaurants that are sure to satisfy your plant-based cravings.

So, if you’re looking for a blend of history, culture, and a touch of magic, Turin should definitely be on your travel radar!

Located in the southern part of Piedmont, between River Po and the Ligurian Apennines and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the areas of Le Langhe-Roero and Monferrato are a region of outstanding beauty, certainly famous for its prestigious wines, but also for other local products like truffles (the worlwide famous Alba’s white truffle comes from here) and hazelnuts – Nutella was invented here, by Mr Ferrero!

Its rolling hills, excellent traditional food and picturesque villages make this region ideal for those looking for a relaxing and romantic experience centred on food and wine tastings, touring from village to village, from cellar to cellar, while enjoying the idyllic landscape.

All of these aspects make the area simply perfect for an elopement in Northern Italy. If you are looking for a destination where you can have an experience similar to the one you could have in Tuscany but want to avoid the downs that might come from too much popularity, then Piedmont with its vineyards, mountains, hills, culture and history is your first class alternative for an elopement in Northern Italy!

• La Morra and Barolo
• Murazzano and Dogliani
• Barbaresco
• Alba
• Grinzane Cavour
• Carru’

• White truffle
• Hazelnuts
• The original Nutella
• Il gran bollito di Carru’, 7 different cuts of ox boiled and served with various traditional sauces, one for all, the famous bagnet vert
• Lumache (Escargot) di Cherasco
• Meat tartare Alba style
• Bagnacauda
• Vitello Tonnato
• Agnolotti del Plin
• Piedmont Style Mixed Fried

Barolo, Barbaresco, Dolcetto and Barbera d’Alba Barolo, Nebbiolo, Roero, are some of the main exceptional DOC and DOCG wines produced in the area.

As for many other regions, the best time to visit is Spring and Autumn, when the harvest begins, and the colours are warmer. Also, to celebrate the end of a year of work on the land, the Autumn period is full of festivals and fairs.

If for your elopement you are looking for a seaside destination, with pristine waters, old typical stone towns surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, cobblestone little roads and secret narrow “caruggi” (typical Ligurian alleys), then the Italian Riviera is the place for you.

“Cinque Terre” literally means the Five Lands, it is a coastal area in Liguria that stretches within 5 beautiful towns,  Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. The coastline, the five villages, and the surrounding hillsides are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you love hiking and you’d like to explore one of the most beautiful destinations in Italy at a slow pace, enjoying the surroundings to the fullest, then you should check out the Blue Path (il Sentiero Azzurro). A 12 km easy trail that connects the 5 fishing towns and will take you on a stunning walk through beauty and history.

And of course you cannot miss a boat tour at sunset in one of the most mesmerising coastlines in Italy. Most of our couples that choose to elope in Cinque Terre decide to have their ceremony on the boat at sunset, as it is truly something unique.

If the idea of eloping in Cinque Terre is something you might want to consider, then make sure to check out our comprehensive guide to elope in this incredible Italian destination!

(click on image to be redirected to the guide)

And if you are looking for more inspiration for your elopement in Cinque Terre, make sure you check out Liz & Chris’ album of their incredible day!

Liz & Chris’ Elopement in Cinque Terre

Portofino is a little gemstone on the Ligurian coast: rich in Mediterranean personality, Portofino is a town that’s been loved by artists and writers over time. The famous “Piazzetta” and its typical colourful houses, have been the source of inspiration for travellers, visitors and artists for hundreds of years. Its perfect and always mild climate makes it the ideal destination in any season.

Milan is probably the most international, innovative and future-oriented of the Italian cities, but that does not mean that it is not also rich in history, art and culture. Considered the European capital of Fashion and Design, Milan is a vibrant city that can offer you the buzz of contemporary art studios, cutting-edge fashion, innovative design and cuisine, but at the same time captivating you with some of the most important museums, galleries and buildings in the world.

• Visiting il Duomo di Milano, the famous gothic cathedral, and tour its roof and terraces enjoying breathtaking views of the city .
• Window shopping (for many of us at least) under the sumptuous arches of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, world’s oldest shopping mall.
• Spending a night at La Scala, one of the most important opera house in the world
• Seeing Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper in Santa Maria delle Grazie and visit Pinacoteca di Brera to admire the work of the other Italian Master Painters
• Enjoying an aperitivo along the romantic canals of Navigli

Eloping to Milan is ideal for those eclectic people who love the vibrancy of a modern city without having to compromise on culture and history.

Listed as a UNESCO world heritage, Venice is a city like no one else in the world. This historical city was originally built on 100 small islands in the Adriatic Sea. Instead of roads, Venice relies on a series of waterways and canals, while passage on foot is permitted by over 400 bridges connecting the islands. The whole city is an extraordinary architectural masterpiece in which even the smallest building contains works by some of the world’s greatest artists such as Giorgione, Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese and others. Last but not least, with its tranquil atmosphere, soft colours and beautiful buildings, it is one if not THE most romantic city in the world! Waat more can you ask for if you decide to elope in Northern Italy?

• Vaporetto ride along the Canal Grande
• Visiting Piazza San Marco and Basilica di San Marco (maybe during the acqua alta, high-water period, to add a reflecting mirror effect to your pictures!)
• Visiting Palazzo Ducale and Ponte dei Sospiri from the inside
• Gondola tour enjoying the canals and the many famous bridges like Ponte di Rialto, Ponte delle Guglie and Ponte degli Scalzi (to name a few)
• Boat or ferry tour to Murano, the island of glass and Burano, the island of lace.
• Enjoy a live opera or ballet at Gran Teatro La Fenice opera house
• Explore the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, one of the most illustrious modern art collections in the world

• Polenta, the most important food in the Venetian tradition, you will find it accompanying almost every main dish.
• Baccalà Mantecato (marinated cod)
• Fegato alla veneziana (liver venetian style)
• Risi e Bisi (Risotto and Peas)
• Bigodi in Salsa (Thick spaghetti with anchovies sauce)

Venice gets extremely busy and hot (and sometimes smelly) in the summer, so we recommend avoiding the months between June and August. Acqua alta (high water) floods areas of Venice during the winter months between November and March, and although, when mild, can give a mirror-like effect to the surface of Piazza San Marco, when extreme can affect access to the square.

So the best months to visit Venice would be April, May, early June and September.

Venice is also home to the famous Venice Carnival, if you don’t want to miss it make sure to be around towards the end of February and beginning of March.

Eloping to Venice would be ideal for those romantic souls that feel the charm of an ancient city almost floating on the water and love the pastel colours of the building and the canals. A private Vaporetto tour or a gondola ride is always a must in an elopement in Venice, but why not consider celebrating your symbolic ceremony right on the gondola while cruising the canals?

Both listed as UNESCO world heritage, Verona and Vicenza are less famous than their neighbour Venice, but they are equally rich in history, culture, architecture and great traditions, from music concerts to fine food and wine. So absolutely a destination worth considering if you want to elope in Northern Italy.

Verona is undoubtedly famous among the Shakespeare lovers for being the city where the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet is set. Here you can still visit the gothic building that is believed to be Juliet’s house and lean from the same balcony Juliet heard Romeo declaring his love.

Verona is also home of the world famous Arena di Verona, an ancient roman amphitheatre that still fulfils its original function hosting open air opera and music concerts appreciated around the world.

Vicenza, apart from being the hometown of our beloved grandma Nonna Berti, is most famous for its Palladian architectural style: Andrea Palladio, considered one of the most influential architects of the past 500 years, left many outstanding examples of his art disseminating palaces, villas, and buildings around the city and in the surrounding areas conferring a characteristic renaissance elegance to the area. Worth of note, Basilica Palladiana, Villa Capra La Rotonda, Teatro Olimpico and Palladian Villas of the Veneto.

Eloping to Verona and even more to Vicenza would be ideal for those ones that want to have an authentic Italian experience and immerse themselves  in culture and art without the annoyance of massive tourist crowds.

The Dolomites are a massive mountain range in northeastern Italy. Region of outstanding beauty, and an UNESCO World Heritage Site, they are the ‘Alpine Destination’ in Italy par excellence.

Their landscape is so diverse and dramatic, rich of vertical walls, craggy pinnacles, karst plateaus and idyllic valleys, that it makes the heaven of mountain lovers and active travellers. The remarkable contrast between the rocky mountains and the green alpine pastures is what makes the Dolomites so iconographic. And of course elopements in this part of Northern Italy are definitely one of a kind.

Whether you’re a Summer adventurer or a Winter enthusiast, this stunning region in Northern Italy has something for everyone.

In the Summer, the Dolomites offer a plethora of outdoor activities. From exploring the via ferrata to hiking from mountain hut to mountain hut, the options are endless. You can also indulge in biking, rafting, and so much more. For hikers, the best time to visit is from June to September, while it’s advisable to steer clear of the bustling crowds in August.

Now, if you’re a snow aficionado, the winter season from December to March is your playground. The Dolomites boast the largest ski resort in the world, Dolomiti Superski, where you can carve through the snow-covered slopes to your heart’s content. Take in the enchanting snowy landscapes or wander through the charming Christmas markets in the local villages.

Aside from the natural beauty, the Dolomites also offer top-notch accommodations, ranging from rustic rifugi and cozy mountain huts to luxurious hotels and spas. And let’s not forget about the delectable traditional cuisine that awaits you at every turn.

It’s no wonder that the Dolomites have become a sought-after destination for elopements. The stunning scenery, coupled with the high-quality amenities and mouthwatering cuisine, make it the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway in Northern Italy. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relax, the Dolomites are sure to leave you spellbound.

• Tre Cime di Lavaredo
• Lago di Braies
• Lago di Misurina
• Passo Giau
• The Cinque Torri
• Lagazuoi
• Croda da Lago and Lago Federa
• Selva di Cadore
• Val Gardena
• The Puez-Odle Nature Park
• Alpe di Siusi
• Val di Funes
• Sassolungo
• Marmolada
• Seceda
• Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park

• Polenta, like in Veneto, polenta is one of the most common foods in Dolomites and it will accompany almost every main meal.
• Casunziei, half moon shaped ravioli with various traditional filling.
• Gnocchi with butter and smoked ricotta
• Canederli, or Knödel, boiled dumplings in a meat broth
• Apple strudel

WINES

The area is very famous for its white and fizzy wines, like Müller-Thurgau, Lagrein, Teroldego and Trentino DOC.

But for warming up in winter nothing is better than a traditional Italian Grappa, a grape-based pomace brandy that comes with different flavours all sourced in the surrounding mountains.

Closest airports: Malpensa Airport, Milan – Marco Polo Airport, Venice. It is best to rent a car to visit around.

Be Inspired and Check Out

Our Couples’ Real Elopements Across Italy

Discover All Our Planning Guides for Your Italian Elopement