It’s no longer just a scene from a romantic film—more American couples are packing their bags (and their gowns) for an Italian adventure in love. In 2025, destination weddings in Italy have soared to record highs, with Americans accounting for nearly 1 in 3 of all international weddings held in the country. But this isn’t just about stunning backdrops. It’s about soul, style, and slowing down for something unforgettable.
The Rise of Destination ‘I Do’s
According to Italy’s national tourism board, destination weddings in the country have increased by over 60% since 2019, with couples from the U.S. leading the charge. This surge reflects a broader trend: modern couples are reimagining what a wedding should feel like—not just a ceremony, but a deeply personal, multi-day experience shared with loved ones.
Italy offers the perfect canvas: historical villas, sun-drenched coastlines, rolling vineyards, and towns where time seems to stand still. For many, it’s more than just a venue—it’s a dreamscape.
Romance Beyond the Aisle
What draws couples to Italy isn’t just the wedding itself—it’s the lifestyle. The pace is slower. The food is richer. The views are unbeatable. From sipping aperitifs at sunset in Ravello to dancing under fairy lights in a Tuscan vineyard, the entire journey feels like stepping into la dolce vita.
For many couples, these weddings become week-long celebrations: a welcome dinner in Rome, a boat day on Lake Como, a farewell brunch overlooking Florence. It’s not just a day—it’s a shared memory, elevated by place and culture.
Favorite Wedding Destinations in Italy
While every region has its charms, a few destinations have become particularly beloved among American couples:
- Tuscany: Rolling hills, rustic farmhouses, and world-class wine. Perfect for countryside elegance.
- Amalfi Coast: Clifftop vows with dramatic sea views in Positano, Ravello, or Sorrento.
- Lake Como: For Hollywood-level glamour, with grand villas and lakeside ceremonies.
- Puglia: Rising in popularity for its boho-chic vibes and trulli-style architecture.
- Rome & Florence: Ideal for city lovers who want history, art, and beauty wrapped in one.
The Appeal to American Couples
There are many reasons Italy tops the list for U.S. couples:
- Heritage & Romance: Many Americans with Italian roots feel a deep connection to the land.
- Instagrammable Beauty: Let’s be honest—it’s hard to beat those Amalfi backdrops.
- Lower Cost, Higher Value: While luxury is available, even modest budgets can stretch further in Italy than in major U.S. cities.
- Built-in Honeymoon: Why fly somewhere else when you can honeymoon in Capri, Venice, or the Dolomites right after?
Personal Touches & Local Traditions
Today’s couples are moving beyond cookie-cutter ceremonies. They’re infusing Italian culture into their weddings in meaningful ways:
- Serving multi-course Italian feasts with regional wines
- Hosting gelato carts for dessert or late-night treats
- Including live mandolin music or hiring local folk bands
- Using olive branches, lemons, and local ceramics for decor
And perhaps most charming of all: the moment when the bride and groom stroll through a village piazza, followed by applause from strangers and spontaneous toasts from nearby cafes.
Planning the Dream
Planning a wedding overseas might seem daunting—but it’s more accessible than ever. Many local wedding planners specialize in working with American couples, offering bilingual support, virtual consultations, and turn-key packages that handle everything from paperwork to prosecco.
Plus, services like Vexo Italy can seamlessly integrate wedding travel with curated experiences, from custom wine tastings to private transportation for guests.
Real Love Stories
Take Mia and Jordan from San Francisco, who tied the knot in a 12th-century villa outside Siena. “We wanted our wedding to feel like us,” Mia says. “Relaxed, warm, full of amazing food and beautiful views. Italy gave us all of that—plus memories that none of us will ever forget.”
Or Alex and Daniel, a Brooklyn couple who exchanged vows at sunset in Positano, with the cliffs glowing behind them and the Mediterranean stretching to the horizon. “We cried the whole time,” Alex laughs. “In the best way.”
Not Just a Trend—A Movement
What started as a niche luxury has become a full-on movement. Dolce Vita weddings aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about a mindset: choosing joy, intentionality, and beauty over stress and spectacle.
In a post-pandemic world, where couples are prioritizing connection and experience over formality, Italy offers the ideal blend of magic and meaning.
Final Thoughts: Say “Sì” to Italy
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels less like an obligation and more like a love story—Italy is waiting. Whether you choose a cliffside elopement or a grand villa celebration, you’ll be surrounded by beauty, passion, and a culture that understands romance better than anywhere on earth.
Say “sì” to the sweet life. Say “sì” to the slow dance at sunset. Say “sì” to Italy.
Plan your dream destination wedding and Italian honeymoon with curated travel and event services from VexoItaly.com.