Planning a Wedding in Italy in 2025? Here’s What You Need to Know about the Jubilee Year!

If you’re planning a dream wedding in Italy for 2025, there’s something important to consider: 2025 is a Jubilee Year, a special event in the Catholic faith that draws millions to Italy, especially to Rome. This year-long celebration means that travel, accommodations, and even wedding venues across the country will be impacted by increased demand and bustling crowds. But don’t worry—there are still ways to plan your Italian wedding while avoiding the crowds and capturing the beauty and romance of Italy. Here’s a guide to help you navigate 2025 Italy wedding planning during this extraordinary year.

Why 2025 Will Be a Busy Year in Italy

The Jubilee, or “Holy Year,” is a significant event that occurs every 25 years, and 2025 will mark the next one. Pilgrims from around the world will be traveling to Rome to participate in this spiritual journey, but the festivities won’t be limited to just the capital. Many cities across Italy will host events and celebrations, meaning that tourist hotspots are likely to be more crowded than usual.

Planning an Italy Wedding in 2025? Consider These Alternative Destinations:

While Rome, Florence, and Venice are stunning locations, they’re also expected to be the busiest, with tourists and pilgrims flocking to these cities year-round. To help you plan a wedding with more privacy and less hassle, here are some alternative destinations that offer incredible backdrops and Italian charm without the high crowds: 

1. Calabria

Calabria is a hidden gem with rugged coastlines, ancient villages, and enchanting beaches. Known for its authenticity, Calabria offers breathtaking scenery and a warm, welcoming vibe that’s perfect for couples looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Venue Ideas:

• Villa Paola – Tropea
• Borgo del Convento – Petrizzi
• Palazzo del Capo – Cosenza
• Villa Ventura – Falerna
• Casale Foti – Calabria

2. Sicily

Sicily is a vibrant island rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Its ancient Greek ruins, stunning coastline, and unique blend of Italian and Mediterranean flavors make it a captivating wedding location. The charming towns of Taormina and Noto provide spectacular settings for your celebration.

Venue Ideas:

• Villa Igiea – Palermo
• Villa Athena Resort – San Leone
• Villa Sant’Andrea – Taormina Mare
• Tonnara Di Scopello – Scopello
• Castello del Solacium – Syracuse
• Dimora delle Balze – Noto
• Commenda di San Calogero – Augusta
• Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo – Taormina
• Borgo del Carato – Solarino

3. Amalfi Coast (Campania Area)

The Amalfi Coast is iconic for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns like Positano and Ravello. This region promises both romance and elegance, without the intense crowds expected in major cities like Rome.

Venue Ideas:

• Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel – Amalfi
• Villa Cimbrone – Ravello
• Palazzo Avino – Ravello
• Villa TreVille – Positano
• Villa Astor – Sorrento
• Excelsior Vittoria – Sorrento
• Hotel Santa Caterina – Amalfi
• Villa San Giacomo – Positano
• Villa La Rondinaia – Ravello
• Casa Privata – Praiano

4. Puglia

Known for its olive groves, trulli houses, and coastal charm, Puglia is a serene and rustic wedding destination. Towns like Ostuni, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare offer unique settings that perfectly blend Italian tradition with stunning natural beauty.

Venue Ideas:

• Masseria Traetta – Ostuni
• Masseria Salamina – Fasano
• Masseria Le Torri – Polignano a Mare
• Masseria Potenti – Manduria
• Masseria Borgo Ritella – Fasano
• Masseria Moroseta – Ostuni

5. Northern Lakes (Lake Como and Lake Garda)

Lake Como and Lake Garda are known for their peaceful ambiance, glamorous villas, and breathtaking lake views. These northern lakes are ideal for couples seeking a luxurious and scenic wedding experience away from the bustle of urban centers.

Venue Ideas:

• Villa Pizzo – Lake Como
• Villa Cortine Palace – Lake Garda
• Villa Cipressi – Lake Como
• Villa Regina Teodolinda – Lake Como
• Villa Lario Resort – Lake Como
• Villa Relais Vittoria – Lake Como
• Villa San Vigilio – Lake Garda

6. Sardinia

Sardinia is an island paradise with turquoise waters, secluded beaches, and rugged mountains. Known for its unique cultural heritage, Sardinia offers a refreshing mix of coastal elegance and Mediterranean allure.

Venue Ideas:

• Hotel Su Gologone – Oliena
• Borgo Smeraldo – between Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo
• Hotel Ollastu – Costa Corallina
• Villa Asquer – Tuili

7. Umbria

Often called the “Green Heart of Italy,” Umbria is famous for its rolling hills, medieval towns, and romantic countryside views. It’s a perfect location for a rustic yet refined wedding, with locations like Assisi, Gubbio (one of my favorite cities), and Orvieto adding to its charm.

Venue Ideas:

• Castello di Baccaresca – Gubbio
• Tenuta di Casa Bruciata – Perugia
• Monastero Santa Margherita – Todi
• Abbazia San Faustino – Pietralunga
• Nikis Resort – Gubbio
• Castello di Petrata – Assisi
• Borgo Bastia Creti – Spedalicchio

8. The Dolomites

For couples who love the mountains, the Dolomites provide a magical backdrop. From dramatic peaks to lush valleys, this northern region offers unparalleled natural beauty and a fairytale-like setting for a unique, alpine wedding.

Venue Ideas:

• Castello Di Spessa – Goriza
• Chalet Pia – Alta Badia
• Castel Hoertenberg – Bolzano
• Castel Fragsburg – Merano
• Iconic docks on Lago di Braies

Why You Should Book ASAP

With Italy’s Jubilee celebrations, there will be a surge in accommodation and venue bookings across the country, even outside Rome. Many travelers will be exploring beyond the main pilgrimage sites, meaning popular wedding locations could fill up faster than usual. To secure your preferred venue and vendors, it’s crucial to book as early as possible.

Get Expert Help Planning Your Italy Wedding

2025 promises to be a remarkable year to celebrate love in Italy, and with a little extra planning, you can still have the wedding of your dreams. For tips, insider knowledge, and expert help in finding the perfect location and vendors, contact me. With my experience as a destination wedding photographer in Italy, I’ll help make your Italian wedding everything you’ve envisioned—while capturing every unforgettable moment! Book here!