Ah, Italy—the land of love, where the sunsets are cinematic, the pasta is always al dente, and the romance is as rich as a glass of Chianti. It’s no wonder LGBTQ+ couples dream of saying “I do” in this enchanting country. But let’s be real—planning a same-sex wedding in Italy comes with a few twists and turns.
From breathtaking venues to legal considerations, this guide will help you navigate everything you need to know to plan your dream wedding in Italy. Andiamo! 🇮🇹
Can Same-Sex Couples Legally Get Married in Italy?
Let’s start with the big question. Italy legalized civil unions for same-sex couples in 2016. While full marriage equality is still a work in progress, a civil union grants many of the same rights as a traditional marriage—including inheritance and healthcare benefits.
However, there are a few things to note:
- Civil unions are legally recognized, but they are not the same as marriages.
- Adoption rights are not automatically included.
- Same-sex marriages performed abroad are recognized as civil unions in Italy.
If you’re a foreign couple planning to celebrate your love in Italy, working with a local wedding planner experienced in LGBTQ+ unions will make the process smooth and stress-free (Secret Tuscany Weddings).
Best LGBTQ+ Friendly Wedding Venues in Italy
Italy has no shortage of dreamlike venues, but which ones truly embrace LGBTQ+ weddings? Here are some of the most inclusive and stunning locations for your special day.
1. Venice – A Fairytale on the Water
Venice is practically a movie set for romance. Picture exchanging vows on a gondola, under the soft glow of sunset, while an Italian musician serenades you from a bridge. Too much? Never.
🏛 Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Venue: Ca’ Sagredo Hotel – A historic palace overlooking the Grand Canal, this 15th-century gem blends Venetian grandeur with modern inclusivity (Ca’ Sagredo).
2. Amalfi Coast – Love with a View
If you’ve ever dreamt of a wedding where the backdrop is a dramatic cliffside town cascading into the Mediterranean, welcome to the Amalfi Coast. The pastel houses, lemon-scented air, and luxurious venues make this a top LGBTQ+ wedding destination.
🌊 Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Venue: Palazzo Avino – A 5-star hotel in Ravello with breathtaking terraces and impeccable service (Palazzo Avino).
3. Florence – Renaissance Romance
Florence is an art lover’s paradise, and if you’re looking for a wedding venue that feels like stepping into a Botticelli painting, this is it.
🎨 Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Venue: Castello di Vincigliata – A medieval castle in the Tuscan hills, offering fairytale vibes with stunning panoramic views (Castello di Vincigliata).
4. Lake Como – Hollywood Glamour Meets Italian Elegance
Lake Como is where Hollywood stars (hi, George Clooney 👋) and lovers of all kinds come for the most glamorous weddings. With its pristine waters and historic villas, it’s pure magic.
💎 Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Venue: Villa Balbiano – One of the most exclusive wedding venues in Italy, often featured in Vogue Weddings (Villa Balbiano).
5. Tuscany – Rustic Chic at Its Finest
Rolling vineyards, golden sunsets, and farm-to-table feasts—Tuscany is all about effortless romance.
🍷 Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Venue: Borgo Santo Pietro – A 5-star country estate offering a secluded, elegant atmosphere for intimate weddings (Borgo Santo Pietro).
Practical Tips for Planning an LGBTQ+ Wedding in Italy
Planning a wedding in Italy is a bit like making fresh pasta—it requires patience, the right ingredients, and a little bit of magic. Here’s how to make the process smoother:
✅ Hire an LGBTQ+ Friendly Wedding Planner – They will handle legal paperwork, venue selection, and cultural nuances.
✅ Plan Your Wedding for the Right Season – July and August can be molto caldo (very hot), so consider May-June or September-October for perfect weather.
✅ Know the Costs – A small civil union ceremony starts at around €10,000, while luxury venues (like Lake Como) can go well over €30,000.
✅ Check Local Traditions – Some venues require you to book an Italian officiant, even for symbolic ceremonies.
✅ Ask About Inclusive Vendors – From florists to photographers, ensure your vendors celebrate love in all its forms.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
❓ Can foreigners have a same-sex wedding in Italy?
✅ Yes! Many LGBTQ+ friendly venues and wedding planners cater specifically to international couples.
❓ How much does an LGBTQ+ wedding in Italy cost?
✅ Costs vary widely. A small, intimate wedding can start at €10,000, while luxury venues can exceed €50,000.
❓ Do Italian wedding venues accept LGBTQ+ couples?
✅ Absolutely. While some religious venues may not, there are plenty of LGBTQ+ welcoming options across Italy.
Capturing Your Love Story in Italy
Your wedding day is more than just a ceremony—it’s a collection of unforgettable moments. And I’m here to capture them all. As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in documenting the magic, the joy, and the in-between moments that make your love story unique.
📸 Explore my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 See my photography packages: Investment
📩 Let’s plan your perfect wedding photoshoot: Contact Me
So, pack your suitcases, grab your amore, and let’s make some unforgettable memories in bella Italia! 💕
