The Best Locations for Weddings in Liguria
A Pictorial Journey into Enchanting Wedding Destinations
Nestled in the extreme northwest of Italy, Liguria, often referred to as the crown jewel of the Italian coastline, stands as a testament to the country’s breathtaking beauty. From the picturesque villages perched along the sea to the vibrant colors that paint the landscape, Liguria captivates the hearts of those who explore its wonders. This coastal region stretches from the French border to the northern reaches of Tuscany, offering a diverse tapestry of landscapes that beckon exploration.
As a photographer, diving into Liguria’s most beautiful photo shoots unveils a rich canvas of timeless elegance and natural splendor. Each location tells a unique story of love. In this exploration, let’s uncover the best wedding destinations that Liguria has to offer.
Portofino
Portofino, a quaint fishing village situated to the east of Genoa, exudes an undeniable charm that has remained largely unchanged since the glamorous days of the sixties. Icons such as Elizabeth Taylor, Ava Gardner, and Frank Sinatra once graced its shores, leaving behind an aura of sophistication. Perched on a rocky promontory, Portofino is a vision of small pink and yellow houses surrounded by hills adorned with pines, palms, cypress trees, and azaleas.
In the Piazzetta, the heart of the village, luxury boutiques such as Gucci, Pucci, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton invite visitors to indulge in the finer things in life. The harbor, with its elegant yachts seemingly at rest in the bay, serves as the epicenter of village life. Portofino, with its exclusive ambiance, stands out as one of the most sought-after destinations for luxury weddings.
Imagine exchanging vows aboard a yacht under the moon and stars of the bluest sky. Civil weddings, a pinnacle of romance, can be celebrated on the terrace of the Castello Brown, a medieval gem overlooking the village. The Belmond Hotel Splendido, with its opulent surroundings, is a must for hosting wedding receptions, ensuring a celebration that befits the grandeur of the occasion.
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre, a collection of five villages—Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso—presents a romantic tapestry against the backdrop of the Ligurian Sea. Accessible primarily by hiking or sea, each village boasts its unique charm, making Cinque Terre a haven for elopements and pre-wedding photo sessions.
Riomaggiore, a picturesque fishing village with tall narrow houses, sets the stage for a charming beginning. Manarola stands proudly above a colorful pile of dwellings emerging from the rocks, while Corniglia perches 100 meters above the sea, connected to the beach by a staircase of 365 steps. Vernazza, with its beautiful harbor, was a popular destination even in Roman times, and Monterosso boasts elegant villas and a renowned beach named Fegina.
Cinque Terre offers an idyllic setting for engagement sessions, with its fantastic sea views and terracotta-roofed houses painted in vivid colors. Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—all five gems—provide beautiful beaches and a mild climate year-round, making them ideal for various photoshoots, including weddings, family pictures, and even wedding proposals. However, due to limited hotels and reception venues, Cinque Terre is recommended for more intimate events.
In Vernazza, civil weddings take center stage in the church atop the village, providing an opportunity for post-ceremony portraits amidst the charming alleys. Manarola, with its outdoor terrace offering a breathtaking view of the turquoise sea and pastel-colored houses, is another enchanting venue for ceremonies. Riomaggiore hosts weddings in the town hall, featuring a broad terrace for civil ceremonies accommodating around 30 people. Monterosso, known for its religious ceremonies at the church of San Giovanni and civil ceremonies at City Hall, provides a diverse range of options for couples seeking a coastal haven for their celebration of love.
Lerici
Located in a picturesque inlet of the Gulf of Poets, Lerici is often referred to as the Pearl of the Gulf, owing to its breathtaking beauty. This small town, which once attracted poets like Lord Byron in the early 19th century, now stands as a seaside resort with a small marina and two stunning public beaches.
Lerici, along with its neighboring towns Tellaro and Fiascherino, emerges as one of the best-kept secrets for seaside weddings in Italy. Beyond its windy yet perfect climate for holidays and weddings, Lerici and Tellaro boast two majestic castles along the seacoast, offering a romantic backdrop for ceremonies.
Civil ceremonies in Lerici take place atop the Castello di San Giorgio, one of the most beautiful and fascinating locations in the area. In case of inclement weather, the lovely Gothic chapel inside the castle becomes an equally enchanting alternative. The castle also extends its charm to wedding receptions, making it a versatile choice for couples seeking historical grandeur.
Unlike many other locations in Liguria, Lerici stands out for its ability to accommodate larger weddings, thanks to the abundance of accommodations and facilities in the area. The fusion of historical charm and seaside allure makes Lerici an inviting destination for couples envisioning a grand celebration with a larger number of guests.
Portovenere
Portovenere, along with the Gulf of the Poets, has earned the prestigious designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its harbor, adorned with brightly colored houses, and medieval streets ascending the hill towards the Church of San Pietro create a visual spectacle that is both captivating and timeless.
Approaching Portovenere by sea reveals the Church of San Pietro perched atop a rock, while the largest island in the Gulf, Palmaria, offers beautiful beaches and the famous Byron’s cave—a rocky area leading to a creek frequented by the poet Byron for swimming.
Portovenere, with its small harbor, narrow streets leading to the castle, and a church atop the rock, emerges as a favorite destination for photo sessions, pre-wedding shoots, and engagements. The picturesque setting makes it a perfect location for various stages of the wedding journey.
Civil marriages in Portovenere unfold on the panoramic terrace of the amphitheater, weather permitting. The ceremony, held outdoors against the backdrop of breathtaking views, provides an unforgettable experience. For couples seeking the Catholic rite, the Church of San Pietro, with its position above the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, stands as an unparalleled setting for a sacred union.
Sestri Levante
Further north along the Ligurian coastline lies Sestri Levante, a charming town that introduces visitors to the Baia del Silenzio—a sandy beach near the town center. This hidden gem is often regarded as the most beautiful and romantic beach in Liguria, adding an extra layer of allure to this coastal haven.
Civil weddings in Sestri Levante find their stage in the local Town Hall, a charming venue that symbolizes the union of love. Just above the Town Hall stands the majestic Hotel Dei Castelli, an architectural marvel that serves as the ideal destination for weddings and receptions. Surrounded by history and culture, the hotel offers sea-view rooms that accommodate many families and guests, creating an immersive experience for those seeking both beauty and comfort.
For couples looking for a symbolic ceremony, the Hotel Dei Castelli’s terrace becomes an enchanting space to exchange vows against the backdrop of the Ligurian Sea. Sestri Levante, with its romantic beach and historical accommodations, invites couples to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Bay of Silence.
Capturing Liguria’s Essence Through the Lens
As a photographer, Liguria unfolds as a treasure trove of visual delights, each location telling a unique story of love and romance. From the timeless elegance of Portofino to the seaside allure of Lerici, and the UNESCO World Heritage splendor of Portovenere, Liguria offers a diverse range of settings for couples seeking a destination wedding.
Whether it’s the intimate charm of Cinque Terre’s villages or the grandeur of Lerici’s castles, each venue presents an opportunity to create lasting memories against the backdrop of Liguria’s natural beauty. As the camera lens captures the essence of love in this enchanting region, the story of Liguria’s allure continues to unfold, inviting couples to embark on a journey of romance and celebration in one of Italy’s most captivating landscapes.
