You are finally getting married and can’t wait to plan your trip of a lifetime. We hear you! As one of the world’s most romantic destinations, we tell you what are the best cities to spend your honeymoon in Italy.
Best places to spend your honeymoon in Italy
Major cities, smaller towns, entire regions. There are so many top Italian honeymoon destinations that it’s difficult to narrow them down in one article. Yet, here we are. We picked some of the most romantic getaways in Italy for your first trip as a married couple.
1. Rome
Too obvious? Nope! Rome is never boring and definitely never obvious. Plus, it’s incredibly romantic and with a myriad of things to do for couples.
Your Italy honeymoon itinerary can definitely start in Rome. A charming interplay of history, culture and beauty will make your romantic trip to Italy unforgettable.
One of the best and first things new couples should do in Rome is an evening stroll along the Tiber river, enjoying the dim lights flickering on the calm waters. And finally grabbing a table in one of the restaurants in Rome city centre.
Some other the places you can’t miss in your Rome honeymoon are the Pincio terrace in Villa Borghese, the Janiculum Hill and the Garden of the Oranges in the Aventino Hill for wonderful views. While visiting the fascinating back alleys of the Aventine Hill you can also have a peek through the keyhole of the Knights of Malta headquarters for a surprise view.
With so many stunning views and romantic things to do, Rome is one of the best places in Italy for honeymoon.
Some of the best honeymoon hotels in Rome? Check out Hotel Lunetta, Torre Argentina Relais, Hotel Villa San Pio and Hotel Condotti.
INSIDER’S TIP: To discover the best restaurants in five different neighbourhoods in Rome, check out my new eBook for foodies Tasting Rome by Neighbourhood.
2. Venice
Venice is another favourite destination by honeymooners and a must in most Italy romantic holidays. Its unusual urban planning, the canals and the bridges makes it one of the most romantic places in Italy.
A maze of alleys, fascinating little corners, small traditional restaurants and romantic resorts will make your holiday incredibly romantic. Even though very touristy, a gondola ride has always its charm, and if you don’t want to stick to the tourist path too much, add value to your Venice honeymoon with a trip to the surrounding villages and islands like Burano, Murano and Torcello.
If you are looking for a Venice honeymoon package including an Italy romantic itinerary, you can check out this 6-day private honeymoon tour with also Rome and Florence, or this 8-day tour including also Naples, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.
Some of the best Venice honeymoon hotels? Check out Palazzo Veneziano, Ai Mori D’Oriente, Splendid Venice – Starhotels Collezione and Hotel Ai Cavalieri Di Venezia.
READ MORE: To delve deeper in the local history and culture, check out the best tours of Venice.
3. Verona
The city of Romeo and Juliet couldn’t possibly miss the list of Italy honeymoon destinations. Because if Verona is not romantic, I don’t know what is.
The city in itself is beautiful and full of historical places to visit. For some romantic moments, you can identify yourself with one of the most famous couples in literature and their tragic story by visiting the houses of Romeo and Juliet. Once you reach Juliet’s balcony, probably the crowd will reduce the romance, but you can still go up and take a picture of yourself.
But let’s face it, Verona is not only Juliet’s balcony. Wander around its alleys, Piazza delle Erbe, and stop at some of its delicious traditional restaurants for a sweet meal surrounded by history. A perfect destination for your Italy romantic vacations.
Are you looking for a romantic honeymoon hotel in Verona? Check out Il Sogno di Giulietta Relais De Charme, Relais Empire, Hotel Accademia and Hotel Milano & SPA***S.
4. Florence
Just like Rome, Florence is never an obvious choice. Whether you have been already or it’s your first time, Florence is truly one of the best honeymoon destinations in Italy.
Walk along the river in the evening, go sightseeing to explore the art and history of the city, have a romantic dinner in one of the many traditional restaurants. Or go to Piazzale Michelangelo for an unprecedented view of the city and its main landmarks, first among all Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral and Giotto bell tower.
Italy’s capital of art, in Florence you are never far from a masterpiece by artists such as Michelangelo, Giotto, Botticelli. If you have limited time and want to explore as much as you can, we suggest booking a tour with a local guide.
Obviously your Tuscany honeymoon doesn’t need to be limited to Florence. Exploring the Chianti wine region and Tuscany countryside, the medieval towns of Siena and Lucca, Pisa marine republic, or smaller towns like San Gimignano
Looking for romantic hotels for your Florence honeymoon? Check out Grand Hotel Minerva, Grand Hotel Cavour, Hotel Brunelleschi, Golden Tower Hotel & Spa.
READ MORE: See our detailed Florence guide and the best Florence restaurants for first-timers.
5. Riva del Garda
Riva del Garda in Trentino Alto Adige is a perfect honeymoon destination in Italy to combine relax, romance and adventure. Some of the activities you can do here are canoeing, diving, climbing, long walks in the Dolomites and when it’s good weather a romantic boat trip on the lake.
The breathtaking lake and mountain views as well as the many castles that dot the slopes, add to the romance of one of the favourite honeymoon places in Italy around the Lake Garda.
Some of the most romantic hotels in Villa del Garda? Check out Parc Hotel Flora, Grand Hotel Liberty and Du Lac Et Du Parc Grand Resort.
6. Bormio
For mountain lovers, a fantastic northern Italy honeymoon destination is Bormio. Also known as Bagni di Bormio, its main attraction, and what made it increasingly popular, is its thermal baths.
Bormio, in fact, is always in higher demand among travellers and honeymooners. Here you can enjoy a romantic trip made of stunning natural scenery, open-air thermal baths and beauty treatments.
Located in the gorgeous Valtellina area in Lombardia region, your Bormio trip can include mountain hiking and trekking or skiing if you go in winter, and romantic walks in the ancient town.
Some of the places to visit around Bormio are the town of Livigno and Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio for an excursion to Passo dello Stelvio at some 2700 metres above sea level.
Great hotels for your honeymoon in Bormio: QC Terme Grand Hotel Bagni Nuovi, QC Terme Hotel Bagni Vecchi, Hotel Baita dei Pini, Hotel San Lorenzo.
7. Cinque Terre, honeymoon in the Italian Riviera
A favourite destination for weddings, Liguria’s Cinque Terre is a great place to include in your romantic Italy itinerary.
You can either choose one of the five villages included in the Cinque Terre to enjoy the beautiful landscape also nighttime or stay in one of the nearby larger towns like Le Grazie or Portovenere.
The place is incredibly romantic. Watch some sunsets in Manarola, enjoy walking around the narrow alleys of picturesque Vernazza, go to the beach of Monterosso al Mare or discover the street art of Riomaggiore.
The Cinque Terre make it for a diverse honeymoon in Italy: you can totally relax with great views and delicious food, or you can also travel one of the many hiking trails for some outdoor activities in the nature.
Some of the most romantic hotels in the Cinque Terre? Marianna Quiet Rooms in Monterosso, Villino Wanda in Monterosso, Santa Marta Rooms 23 in Vernazza, Cadè Ventu in Vernazza.
READ MORE: Check out our guide to the Cinque Terre to start planning your trip.
8. Amalfi Coast
One of the most popular Italian coastlines and landscapes, the Amalfi Coast is a fantastic destination for any honeymoon trips to Italy.
Located south of Naples in the Sorrento peninsula, the whole Amalfi Coast is dotted with pastel-color houses on the green hills. Very famous in the American travel narratives also thanks to many movies, this is absolutely a favourite, once by celebrities, today by everyone.
Positano is one of the most famous towns, but for your honeymoon you can consider also places like Amalfi, Sorrento and the islands of Capri, Procida and Ischia. The hills directly leaning over the sea in dramatic cliffs open up spectacular views and for sure plenty of romantic moments.
To discover all the towns, views and also the delicious local cuisine, you can book a guided day tour. If you are a history fan, or even if you just want to explore more of the past and culture of your honeymoon destination in Italy, we highly suggest you book a tour to Pompeii, it’s gorgeous and you won’t regret it.
Looking for some romantic hotels in the Amalfi Coast? Check out Villa Fiorentino in Positano, Palazzo Suriano in Vietri sul Mare, Hotel Margherita in Praiano, Hotel Poseidon in Positano.
9. Sardinia
If you opted for a Sardinia honeymoon, get ready to have a great time. Depending on the season, here you can have a different trip. So there’s no really one best place to honeymoon in Sardinia.
In summer, explore the gorgeous Sardinia beaches, in spring you can enjoy its beautiful capital Cagliari. During Carnival in February/March, you can discover some of the island’s fascinating festivals like the Mamuthones in Mamoiada.
With so many things to do in Sardinia, you can plan any type of romantic trip you want, whether you just want to relax, explore the local culture, cuisine or outdoor activities in the nature such as trekking at Su Gorroppu canyon.
Among the best Sardinia honeymoon destinations, is aldo La Maddalena island. In Sardinia northernmost edge. it boasts relaxing beaches, crystal waters and a truly evocative scenery.
The best romantic hotels in Sardinia for your honeymoon? Check out Hotel Aquadulci in Chia, Hotel Corte Bianca in Cardedu (Nuoro), Hotel CalaCuncheddi in Murta Maria (Olbia), Hotel Eliantos in Santa Margherita di Pula, Excelsior in La Maddalena.
READ MORE: if you are planning a trip, check out our Sardinia guide for useful tips and local’s insight.
10. Naples
Rich in history, culture and culinary traditions, Naples is always a great holiday destination. And when you are planning the best Italy honeymoon itinerary, you can’t really leave it out.
Explore Spaccanapoli quarter, and visit the Royal Palace, Museo Nazionale di Capodimonte and the Duomo. Don’t forget to admire the Veiled Christ in the Sansevero Chapel, enjoy the best pizza in Italy, and linger on a romantic dinner with a view.
While in Naples, explore also its surroundings such as the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Ercolano, the stunning Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, Positano and the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida.
Looking for romantic hotels in Naples? Check out NapoliMia Hotel De Charme, Napolart, Eurostars Hotel Excelsior, I Giardini Del Re.
READ MORE: See our detailed 2-week Italy itinerary if you need help planning a perfect trip.
11. Ostuni
Puglia region is a favourite destination of holidaymakers thanks to its gorgeous beaches, landscape and delicious food. If you are looking for the best places to honeymoon in Italy, do check out Ostuni.
Located in Brindisi province, the colour of the houses, especially those in the old town, earned Ostuni the moniker of White City. A pearl of the Salento area, it offers a romantic atmosphere for your dinners, walks and relaxing time.
Ostuni old town is a maze of narrow alleys and little squares. One side of the city still preserves the ancient walls and two gates.
Your Puglia honeymoon in Ostuni can and should include also the nearby coast. Enjoy the beautiful beaches whatever season you are going. If summer, you can sunbathe and swim in the azure waters. If springtime or winter, you can enjoy long walks and relax with a stunning landscape and delicious local food.
Looking for great Ostuni hotels for your romantic trip to Italy? Check out La Sommità Relais & Chateaux, La Terrazza Sulla Rupe Relais, Ostuni Palace – Meeting Spa, 21mq Suite Home.
12. Alberobello
Another great honeymoon spot in Italy with fantastic views is Alberobello, also in the southern Puglia region.
Alberobello is one of the 45 places in Italy included in UNESCO World Heritage List due to its “Trulli”, ancient stone cone-shaped dwellings. Still used as houses in Bari, Brindisi and Taranto provinces, they constitute the city centre of Alberobello. Exploring the main quarters and trulli will really feel like travelling in time.
Your Puglia honeymoon doesn’t need to be limited to Alberobello. Don’t forget to visit fantastic places like the already mentioned Ostuni as well as Cisterno, Martina Franca and Taranto for great fish and seafood dishes.
Looking for great hotels in Alberobello? Check out Villa Wonder, Tipico Resort, Podere Papilio, Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso, Dimore Sovrane.
13. Catania
The charm of decadent noble mansions, the view of Mount Etna volcano, delicious food and beautiful beaches are only some of the ingredients of your romantic trip to Catania.
In Catania, walk along Via Vittorio Emanuele II and visit the beautiful Sant’Agata Cathedral, the Fountain of the Elephant in Piazza Duomo, stop at one of the lovely coffee shops and do yourself a favour, head to a pastry shop for the best Sicilian cannoli you have ever tried. Some of the most popular and traditional pastry shops in the city centre are Pasticceria Savia (Via Etnea 302/304), Pasticceria Spinella (Via Etnea 292) and I Dolci di Nonna Vincenza (Piazza San Placido 7). Their cannoli and pastries will totally make for a sweet and romantic breakfast!
If you are into outdoor activities, take a hike to the Mount Etna, Italy’s most active volcano. You can book a half-day excursion as well as a trek to the summit and crater.
Of course your Sicily honeymoon shouldn’t be limited to Catania. If you can stay a bit longer, this Italian island is packed with wonders, historical places, beautiful cities, stunning landscapes and amazing food. Visit its capital Palermo, Italy’s “most Arab” city, Agrigento and its nearby Valle dei Templi, Taormina, Ragusa and its Ibla, Siracusa and the Ortigia island, and the beautiful Eolie Islands, a fantastic place to add to your Sicily honeymoon itinerary, especially if you are travelling in summer.
Looking for a romantic hotel in Catania? Check out Altevolte Rooms, Habitat, Etnea 454 Catania Luxury Rooms, Duomo Suites & Spa.
14. Matera
Incredibly scenic city in the Basilicata region, Matera is a terrific stop in your southern Italy honeymoon trip. With its boulders and dwellings dug out from the rock, it’s a very romantic destination in Italy.
Firstly inhabited from the Palaeolithic, the area shows a continuous human occupation throughout several millennia.
UNESCO-listed Sassi and Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera is a complex of abodes, monasteries and hermitages built into the natural caves of the Murgia archaeological park, a calcareous highland plateau characterized by deep fault fissures, ravines, rocks and caves.
Its territory of fortified farmhouses, ancient churches built in caves, shepherds’ traces and wells and dramatic canyons offers an incredibly suggestive and romantic landscape.
As usual, we suggest exploring more of the region and the whole southern Italy, maybe straying in neighbouring Calabria, Puglia or Campania.
Looking for a hotel for your honeymoon in Matera? Check out Locanda di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae, Ai Terrazzini, Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa.
15. Salina
If you are a couple lover of trekking, nature and outdoor activities, then Salina, one of the Aeolian Islands, is one of the most romantic places to stay in Italy.
Apart from trekking, you can also relax on the beach, take a boat tour and enjoy a romantic dinner washed with the delicious local wine. Your romantic trip here will be both a relaxing and an adrenaline one.
Among the best hotels for your honeymoon in Salina are Hotel Mercanti di Mare, Hotel Punta Barone, La Villa Rossa.
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