Italy captured my imagination long before I ever set foot there. I had romantic visions of the Trevi Fountain, endless pasta and high fashion. Gorgeous cathedrals, countryside vineyards & cliffside villas. Who could be surprised if such visions draw so many brides & grooms to Italian venues for their own wedding day?

I soon learned that Italy is so much more than I imagined. Walking through the streets of Rome felt like walking between two worlds, the past and the present seamlessly intertwined. Most often the past is left untouched and the modern world does their best to navigate around it.

There was, of course, an undeniable appreciation for food and slowing down to savor a meal together. (And yes, I did, in fact, eat my weight in pasta.)

All this in and of itself is romance. The meeting of worlds, acknowledging the past while moving toward the future, slowing down to savor moments and be surrounded by people that mean the most. So if you’re considering Italy for your day of “I do,” below are just a few venues that capture the essence of an Italian getaway.

Photo by Claudio Fasci

La Badia di Orvieto – Humbly referred to as “an island of stone in a sea of green,” the La Badia di Orvieto is what Italian dreams are made of. Lovers of ancient ruins will feel at home amongst the impressive cathedral and stone archways overlooking the lush surrounding greenery. Rooms are simply decorated with unique antique furniture to ensure your gorgeous step back in time.

Località La Badia, 8 – 05019 Orvieto (TR) – Visit Site

Castel Monastero Under the Tuscan Sun takes on a whole new meaning within the walls of this luxuriously restored castle. You can let all the planning stress go in an almost 11,000-foot spa, relax in the tea room or enjoy a gourmet meal in one of the two restaurants on-site.

Località Monastero D'Ombrone, 53019 Castelnuovo Berardenga, Italy – Visit Site

Photo via Villa Alceo

Villa Alceo – Modern luxury tucked away in mountains of Northern Italy is a gem unlike any other. Villa Alceo tailors to those who love the outdoors and lounging on a king-size bed. If during your stay you need a quick change of scenery you can take a short drive to Mendrisio, Switzerland or Lake Como and Lugano. This space is not to be missed!

Viggiù, Lombardia, Italy – Visit Site

Masseria Petrarolo – Accessible only by drawbridge, this gorgeous white stone farmhouse is a romantic treasure. Complete with views of the Adriatic sea via the rooftop pool and a walled garden filled with orange and lemon tree. Masseria Petrarolo offers a stunning setting for an intimate event.

Contrada Lama di Macina, 17, 70043 Monopoli, BA, Italy – Visit Site

Photo via Casino di Mare

Casino di Mare – For a more rustic and historic beach experience, Casino di Mare is the most affordable option to make the list. This venue is not short on captivating scenery or nearby adventures including a local market and beachfront.

Santa Maria, Campania, Italy – Visit Site

Photo via Casa Angelina

Casa Angelina – For a more modern twist on your visit to the Almafi Coast, look no further than Casa Angelina.

Via Gennaro Capriglione, 147, Praiano, Province of Salerno, Italy – Visit Site

Photo via Masseria Alchimia

Masseria Alchimia – Imagine yourself surrounded by olive trees overlooking the sea as your family and friends gather to celebrate. All of this is possible at Masseria Alchimia.

Masseria Alchimia, Contrada Fascianello, Fasano, Province of Brindisi, Italy – Visit Site

Domus Civita – Domus Civita captures a truly unique blend of the past and present. Just an hour outside Rome you will find a footbridge that will take you to a beautifully restored medieval home complete with pools and hot tubs hidden in caves.

Associazione Sarda Domus, Via Nino Bixio, Civitavecchia, Metropolitan City of Rome, Italy – Visit Site

Photo by Jules Bower via The Knot

Villa di Geggiano – Villa di Geggiano has been welcoming guests since 1527 and remained an immaculate capsule of Italian style. This breathtaking home has captured the attention of many and has been featured on both television and magazines.

Villa di Geggiano Servizi, Geggiano, Province of Siena, Italy – Visit Site

Photo via Chiostro dei Domenicani

Chiostro dei Domenicani – If you have a large wedding party and are looking for a stunning, all-inclusive wedding venue, Chiostro dei Domenicani takes the cake. Why is this venue so gloriously massive? It used to be a convent – prepare yourself for the most gorgeous halls & wedding chapel!

Via S. Pietro in Lama, 27, Lecce, Italy – Visit Site

Still looking for more amore? Check out the Bridal Musings showcase of real Italian weddings for more inspiration.