Italy Dominates the Luxury Wedding and Honeymoon Market in 2025: The Ultimate Destination for Romance and Elegance

Published on November 27, 2025

Italy continues to dominate the global wedding tourism scene and has long been considered one of the most romantic travel destinations in the world. Italy has cemented its position as the top location for opulent weddings and ideal honeymoons this year. High-profile marriages like the one between Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez have further increased Italy’s appeal as a wedding destination, and the nation has come to be associated with luxury and romance.

Wedding Tourism in Italy: A Booming Industry

The wedding tourism sector in Italy is now a key player in the global hospitality market, driving substantial revenue across multiple industries. The trend has been growing steadily, with more than 15,000 weddings of foreign couples taking place in Italy. The country saw a notable increase in this sector, with an annual growth rate of over 11%. On average, these weddings cost about 61,500 euros, with nearly 36% of the budget allocated to catering alone. The luxurious affair celebrated by Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez in Venice is reported to have cost between 40 and 48 million euros, making it one of the most extravagant weddings ever held on the Venetian Lagoon.

The rise of Italy as the top destination for luxury weddings has led to a significant economic impact. The total turnover for wedding tourism in Italy is nearing one billion euros, a drastic increase from just 500 million euros in 2018. This surge has propelled the country to the top of the honeymoon destination rankings, surpassing other romantic locales like Greece and Bali. As reported in recent surveys, Italy continues to hold its ground as the world’s leading choice for luxury honeymoons, driven by its blend of historic charm, stunning landscapes, and world-class amenities.

A Competitive and Attractive Destination for Tourists

Italy’s allure lies in its ability to offer unique, authentic experiences that cater to the desires of foreign couples. The country’s diverse landscape, from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the stunning coastlines of Amalfi and the cultural richness of Venice, offers something for every type of couple. With its top-tier hotels, fine dining, and local traditions, Italy has become a go-to destination for weddings and honeymoons alike. The country’s tourism board, ENIT, has reported a steady rise in foreign visitors choosing Italy to celebrate their weddings, with an increasingly positive economic impact on the sector.

Central Italy is particularly popular, with foreign couples often opting for its romantic countryside and historical cities. However, there is a growing trend towards the southern regions of Italy, particularly Sicily, which has emerged as a prime wedding destination. According to the latest ENIT surveys, nearly one million foreign guests travelled to Italy for weddings, generating four million overnight stays. This trend is helping to spread tourism across the country, benefiting regions beyond the major tourist hubs.

The Rise of Destination Weddings

Destination weddings in Italy are a key segment of the growing wedding tourism industry. These weddings are often celebrated in intimate settings, away from the bustling cities, offering couples the chance to experience Italy in a truly authentic manner. Couples from all over the world choose Italy for its cultural richness, scenic beauty, and the unique experience of being married in one of the world’s most iconic locations.

The trend of long-haul markets is also expanding, with couples from countries like Canada, Japan, Argentina, India, and the United Arab Emirates increasingly choosing Italy for their wedding celebrations. The attraction of “Made in Italy” luxury goods, local products, and the global reputation for Italian hospitality continue to fuel this demand. This international appeal is exemplified by the grand Bollywood-style wedding in Apulia in 2014, where the daughter of Indian iron magnate Prmod Agarwal married in the stunning Borgo Egnazia resort with over 800 guests and 1,700 hired staff, including an elephant tamer.

The Economic and Social Impact of Wedding Tourism

The wedding tourism industry plays an important role in Italy’s economic growth and the development of local communities. As couples from across the globe flock to Italy for their nuptials, the impact is felt not only by the hospitality industry but also by local businesses that provide services such as florists, photographers, and caterers. Wedding tourism also supports job creation, as local staff are hired to cater to the needs of the wedding parties, and suppliers see a boost in demand for their goods and services.

The industry is continuing to expand, with a particular focus on promoting Italian food and wine excellence. In London, the ‘Enit Weddings and Luxury workshop’ was recently held, bringing together 17 Italian participants, including luxury hotels and destination management companies, with 25 British operators and wedding planners. The event showcased Italy’s high-end offerings to potential clients, further solidifying the country’s position as a leader in wedding tourism.

The Future of Wedding Tourism in Italy

As wedding tourism continues to thrive, Italy’s tourism authorities are committed to enhancing the country’s appeal as a wedding and honeymoon destination. Efforts are being made to improve infrastructure and promote lesser-known destinations in addition to the usual wedding hotspots like Venice and Florence. By diversifying the wedding tourism offerings and embracing the growing interest in regions like Sicily and Apulia, Italy is ensuring its continued success in the global wedding tourism market.

The wedding tourism industry in Italy is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years. With an influx of foreign couples seeking an authentic Italian experience and the growing influence of luxury brands and high-end destinations, Italy remains at the top of the podium as the ultimate wedding destination. Whether couples are drawn to the picturesque Tuscan hills, the romance of Venice, or the charm of the Amalfi Coast, Italy offers an unforgettable backdrop for the most special day of a couple’s life.

Conclusion

Italy’s wedding tourism sector is thriving and shows no signs of slowing down. The nation is the ideal location for couples wishing to get married or celebrate their honeymoon in style because of its historical charm, stunning scenery, and top-notch services. As more foreign tourists choose Italy for their weddings, the sector is making a substantial economic contribution and supporting the preservation of the nation’s social and cultural fabric.