All you need to know about your wedding in Tuscany
Villa Corsini
Tuscany in Italy has always attracted couples worldwide to say their “I dos.”
The rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, with incredible food and warm yet passionate hosts, create the perfect setting for a lifetime celebration.
The focus on family and dining together on long tables under the warmth of the summer sun just brings it all together.
Of course, adding to the magic is a region rich in history, with incredible wedding venues to choose from. From traditional farmhouses that still produce award-winning wines like Chianti Montalbano to Renaissance villas with French gardens such as Villa Le Corti paired with incredible San Galgano Abbey, or Villa Corsini to medieval castles like Palazzo al Piano and others, Tuscany offers it all—always accompanied by those breathtaking views and wine.
Getting married in Tuscany
Villa Corsini
Villa Le Corti
Legal vs Symbolic Ceremonies and Church Options
Legal Ceremonies
Legal ceremonies in Tuscany take place in town halls or local municipalities, which usually means traveling between villages or towns on the wedding day. Couples must also reside in Italy for at least four full working days. (Note: This information is subject to change and should always be confirmed with the authorities.)
Additionally, you’ll need to consider translating all necessary documents into Italian, obtaining a marriage certificate, and hiring a legally approved translator to officiate alongside the celebrant.
Symbolic Ceremonies
A symbolic ceremony has many advantages. Not only can you personalise the ceremony with your choice of readings, music, poetry, and vows, but you can also invite a dear friend or family member to officiate.
With a symbolic wedding, you’re free to stay at your venue and make use of its stunning outdoor spaces without needing to travel in the summer heat. Imagine simply walking down the aisle from your preparation lounge or bridal suite.
Catholic Church Ceremonies
Many venues are located near charming Catholic churches where your ceremony can take place. Typically, both partners need to be practising Catholics, although some churches may allow one partner to belong to a different Christian denomination. If the church agrees to host your ceremony, they often only request a donation, usually in the region of €300.
Lovely venues with nearby churches include Palazzo al Piano and Chianti Montalbano Farmhouse.
Same-Sex Weddings in Tuscany
Same-sex marriage is legal in Italy. Couples often choose to marry legally in their home country or at a local town hall in Tuscany before celebrating with a symbolic ceremony at their chosen venue. These events don’t necessarily have to take place on the same day.
For couples traveling from abroad, the simplest option is to marry legally at home and then host a symbolic ceremony at their venue. However, Florence, for example, allows legal ceremonies for couples from abroad.
Wedding Venues in Tuscany
The villas, farmhouses, vineyards, and private accommodations in Tuscany share a few common traits:
Incredible Settings
These venues provide breathtaking backdrops but don’t typically include catering services or wedding furniture.Local Expertise Is Key
A local wedding planner is essential to ensure everything runs smoothly. They bring local knowledge and connections to reputable catering companies, which can make all the difference during the planning process and on the big day.Customisable Weddings
With no pre-set packages, these venues allow you to bring your Pinterest boards to life. From choosing your own furniture and lighting to creating a personalised décor scheme, you have the freedom to craft a wedding that’s uniquely yours.
Private Villas with Accommodation
For couples looking to spend quality time with family and friends, private villas with accommodation are ideal. Options range from cosy villas with six bedrooms to larger properties with 15 bedrooms.
These villas can host outdoor celebrations for up to 60 guests while providing rooms for close family. They’re also perfect for pre- and post-wedding events like welcome pizza parties by the pool, wine tastings, or outdoor brunches to reminisce about the big day.
Catering in Tuscany
Italian catering companies bring an abundance of options:
Beverages: From mobile Prosecco bars to local wines and traditional Italian cocktails, your drinks will be perfectly paired with each course.
Cuisine: Choose between formal sit-down meals and informal buffets, all featuring delicious Italian dishes. The traditional Italian wedding cake is a standout feature, sure to impress your guests.
The catering company also provides all the wedding furniture – tables, chairs, linens, cutlery, crockery, and glassware – with a range of styles and colours to choose from. Their team of staff, dressed in immaculate uniforms, will ensure everything runs smoothly, while a food and beverage manager oversees service on the big day.
Villa Corsini, Tuscany
Travel Tips and Sightseeing in Tuscany
Most couples will fly into Florence or the smaller Siena airport. It’s a great idea to break up your trip by spending time in these cities to adjust to the local time zone and climate.
While there, you can explore Florence’s historic landmarks or organise a romantic photoshoot. More information about Tuscany can be found here: Tuscany Official Tourism Website | Visit Tuscany
Historical and Architectural Landmarks in Florence
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo): Admire the magnificent dome by Brunelleschi and climb to the top for panoramic city views.
Giotto’s Bell Tower: Next to the Duomo, this bell tower offers another stunning view of Florence after a climb.
Baptistery of St. John: Known for its golden Gates of Paradise, this historic building is a masterpiece of Florentine art.
Ponte Vecchio: The iconic medieval bridge lined with shops, often featuring jewlry and art.
2. Art and Museums
Uffizi Gallery: Home to masterpieces by Botticelli (The Birth of Venus), Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Accademia Gallery: Visit to see Michelangelo’s famous sculpture, David, and other Renaissance works.
Palazzo Pitti: A massive Renaissance palace housing multiple museums and galleries, including the Palatine Gallery.
Bargello Museum: A hidden gem with Renaissance sculptures by artists like Donatello and Michelangelo.
3. Gardens and Scenic Spots
Boboli Gardens: Behind the Pitti Palace, this sprawling garden features sculptures, fountains, and stunning city views.
Piazzale Michelangelo: A hilltop square offering breathtaking views of Florence, especially at sunset.
Bardini Gardens: A quieter alternative to Boboli, with a panoramic terrace overlooking Florence.
4. Churches and Religious Sites
Santa Croce Basilica: Burial site of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli, with stunning frescoes by Giotto.
San Lorenzo and Medici Chapels: Marvel at the ornate chapels and Michelangelo’s architectural contributions.
Santa Maria Novella: A Gothic church with beautiful frescoes and a peaceful cloister.
Santo Spirito: A lesser-known but serene church with a Michelangelo crucifix.
5. Markets and Local Culture
Mercato Centrale: A bustling market filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and a food court.
San Lorenzo Market: An outdoor market known for leather goods and souvenirs.
Piazza della Signoria: A historic square featuring the Loggia dei Lanzi and a replica of Michelangelo’s David.
6. Day Trips from Florence
Fiesole: A short bus ride away, this hilltop town offers Roman ruins and stunning views.
Chianti Wine Region: Explore vineyards and taste Tuscan wines just outside the city.
Tips for Exploring Florence
Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia.
Florence is walkable, but wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.
Don’t miss the gelato – look for places with covered tubs for authentic, artisanal gelato.
Beautiful Siena
Siena, Italy, is a beautifully preserved medieval city in Tuscany, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant traditions. Here are the top things to see and do in Siena:
1. Piazza del Campo
The heart of Siena, this stunning shell-shaped square is one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Europe.
Palazzo Pubblico: The impressive Gothic town hall, home to the Civic Museum with incredible frescoes, including the famous Allegory of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti.
Torre del Mangia: Climb this iconic tower for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.
2. Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena)
A magnificent example of Gothic architecture with black-and-white striped marble.
Piccolomini Library: Inside the cathedral, this library features stunning frescoes by Pinturicchio.
Crypt and Baptistery: Don’t miss the richly decorated crypt and the Baptistery of San Giovanni, with its beautiful bronze baptismal font.
Panorama del Facciatone: Climb this viewpoint on the unfinished section of the cathedral for stunning views.
3. Basilica of San Domenico
A large church dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena, housing relics and artifacts associated with the saint.
4. Santa Maria della Scala
This former hospital-turned museum complex is one of Europe’s oldest hospitals, featuring frescoes, archaeological finds, and rotating exhibitions.
5. Contrade and Palio Tradition
Learn about Siena’s 17 contrade (districts) and their centuries-old rivalry.
If visiting in July or August, witness the famous Palio di Siena, a thrilling horse race held in Piazza del Campo.
6. Medici Fortress (Fortezza Medicea)
A fortress built by the Medici family, is now a park with walking paths and beautiful views. It also hosts wine events and cultural festivals.
7. Pinacoteca Nazionale di Siena
An art gallery showcasing Siena’s renowned school of painting, featuring works by Duccio, Simone Martini, and the Lorenzetti brothers.
8. Orto Botanico (Botanical Garden)
A peaceful escape with a collection of plants and trees, ideal for a relaxing stroll.
9. Fonte Gaia
A beautifully decorated fountain located in Piazza del Campo. The original fountain’s sculptures, by Jacopo della Quercia, are housed in Santa Maria della Scala.
10. Explore Siena’s Streets
Wander the narrow, winding streets and admire the medieval architecture.
Stop at small shops to discover Tuscan specialties like panforte (spiced fruit cake), ricciarelli (almond cookies), and local wines.
Day Trips from Siena
San Gimignano: Known as the "Town of Fine Towers," this medieval hill town is a short drive away.
Monteriggioni: A tiny walled village offering a glimpse into Tuscany’s medieval past.
Chianti Wine Region: Perfect for wine lovers, with plenty of vineyards to visit.
Final Detail
Getting married in Tuscany is an experience and once you step into Italy in general, you will love it!
Take your family and friends on a romantic adventure with you, the one they will never forget! We can certainly help to make this happen! Browse our Tuscany venues here: Wedding Destinations and venues for wedding abroad — WedAwai Destination wedding venues
