One Wedding on Lake Garda combines an Italian lifestyle with a relaxed atmosphere. Whether it's a small ceremony right on the water or a stylish celebration in a historic villa - you'll find the perfect location on Italy's largest lake. Wedding venues for almost any idea. So that you don't lose track, I have summarised the most important information, possible costs and personal tips for your Lake Garda wedding compiled. As a wedding planner, I have been accompanying couples to this special place and know many details that are crucial when planning.
Lake Garda in Italy: A brief overview
The Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and lies between the Alps and the Po Valley. It belongs to three regions: Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-South Tyrol. With an area of around 370 square kilometres and a bank length of about 160 kilometres it offers a large selection of places that are suitable for a Wedding on Lake Garda suitable.
The landscape is varied: mountains tower in the north, while the south is gentle and expansive. Places like Sirmione with its moated castle, Malcesine with the cable car to Monte Baldo or Limone sul Garda with its lemon gardens are typical examples. Each place has its own character - from elegant to relaxed.
The climate on Lake Garda is mild, the summers are warm but not too hot. The wedding season starts as early as April and lasts until October. Particularly practical: Verona and Bergamo offer two easily accessible airports. The distances on site are short, many locations are right on the water or on hills with lake views.
If you are planning a wedding, you will find modern hotels, small churches and wineries alongside classic Italian villas. Lake Garda combines Italian ease with a reliable infrastructure - perfect if you want a relaxed wedding but don't want to miss out on anything.
What types of weddings is Lake Garda in Italy known for?
The Lake Garda offers the right setting for almost every wedding idea. Especially free weddings are very popular here. Many couples opt for a ceremony right on the lakeshore, on a panoramic terrace or in the garden of a historic villa. The locations are often flexible and allow for open-air weddings - perfect for anyone looking for a personal and relaxed ceremony.
Also Civil weddings can be easily realised on Lake Garda. Some places like Malcesine, Torri del Benaco or Salò offer special locations for weddings. In Malcesine, for example, you can say "I do" directly in the old castle - a place that is not only officially recognised, but also has a special landscape.
Church weddingsChurches, especially Catholic ones, also have a long tradition on Lake Garda. There are many small churches, often with a view of the lake or embedded in the old town centres. Weddings in old village churches or in chapels on the hills are particularly popular.
In addition to classic wedding forms, Lake Garda is also very suitable for intimate celebrations. Many locations are catering for smaller parties with 20 to 50 guests specialised. Anyone planning a large wedding with more than 100 people must book early, as larger venues on the lake are limited.
Weddings in the style of Destination WeddingsA whole weekend on Lake Garda, where guests arrive together, celebrate and enjoy the surroundings. Small excursions, wine tastings or boat trips can be easily integrated into the planning.
In short: whether it's a relaxed garden wedding, an elegant lakeside celebration or a traditional church wedding - the Lake Garda offers you many possibilities to organise your wedding day in a way that suits you.
Cost of a Lake Garda wedding: what are the usual prices?
Prices of wedding venues on Lake Garda
The Prices for wedding venues on Lake Garda vary considerably depending on the location, facilities, number of guests and size of the venue. Smaller venues, such as wineries or rustic country houses, often start at 2,500 to 4,000 euros Rent per day. These venues are well suited for intimate weddings with up to 50 guests. The cheapest option for a smaller wedding party are usually restaurants, as they do not charge a rental fee, but at best only the minimum consumption.
If you want to rent a historic villa directly on the lakeshore, the rent is usually between 5,000 and 8,000 euros. Particularly popular places such as Villa Cortine Palace in Sirmione or Isola del Garda are more expensive and often charge over 10,000 eurosdepending on the season and booking period.
Few locations offer Complete packages which also include catering, decoration and sometimes even overnight stays. These packages depend on the chosen menu and extras such as fireworks or a boat trip.
An important point: Prices are generally higher in popular wedding months such as May, June and September than in the off-peak months. Booking early is therefore not only worthwhile in terms of availability, but also financially.
Prices of wedding service providers on Lake Garda
The following details are only certain Standard values. Prices can vary greatly depending on the season, service provider, scope of services and additional requests. This is very important to note!
- Photographer and videographer (package):
from 10,000 euros
(depending on daytime accompaniment, drone shots, wedding film) - Freelance wedding speaker:
from 1,500 Euro
(depending on ritual, personalisation of the speech, journey) - Florist (decoration concept):
from 6,000 euros
(e.g. bridal bouquet, wedding arch, table decorations, hall design) - Make-up artist/stylist (bridal styling):
from 600 Euro
(make-up, hairstyling, trial styling in advance if necessary) - DJ
from 3,000 euros
(Music for the wedding ceremony, dinner and party, technical package often extra)
Particularly on popular weekends between May and September, individual service providers may require higher minimum bookings or only offer Saturday bookings as part of a package.
How much does a wedding planner cost on Lake Garda?
The costs for a Wedding planner on Lake Garda depend on the scope of services and the size of your wedding. Many planners work with a fixed Minimum fee plus one percentage of the wedding budget.
A usual guideline for a complete plan is as follows:
- Minimum fee: mostly from 7,000 euros
- Additionally: mostly 20 % of the total budget the wedding
This means:
For a wedding with a budget of 40,000 euros the planning costs including minimum fee are around 8,000 to 9,000 euros.
The larger and more elaborate the wedding, the higher the percentage.
Important:
These values are Standard valuesno rigid specifications. Prices may vary depending on the planner, travel costs, desired scope of service and wedding date (e.g. weekends in high season).
Conclusion: What costs should I expect in total?
If you have your Wedding on Lake Garda plans, you should start with Costs from 30,000 and 50,000 euros calculate. The number of guests, the choice of location and how lavishly you organise your celebration are decisive factors.
For a smaller wedding with about 30 guestssimple decoration and local service provider selection are for example 20,000 to 30,000 euros realistic.
If you opt for an exclusive location, extensive floral decorations, top service providers and several programme items, the costs can quickly add up. 40,000 to 50,000 euros or more come together.
Note:
The guide value of around €50,000 refers to smaller, intimate weddings with around 40-50 guests.
For larger weddings (e.g. 100+ guests), you should realistically calculate around €1,000 per person - depending on the location, equipment and desired level of service.
Important factorswhich influence the price:
- Size and location of the venue
- Scope of the decoration
- Quality and awareness of service providers
- Season and day of the wedding
- Additional services such as boat trips, fireworks or a wedding weekend lasting several days
By planning your budget realistically at the start, you can set priorities and better assess which extras make sense.
With my experience as a wedding planner, I support couples in comparing offers and using the budget efficiently - without the day losing any of its quality.
Wedding venues on Lake Garda: the most beautiful places to get married
The Lake Garda offers a large selection of locations for weddings. Whether it's a small celebration by the water or an exclusive villa - you'll find the perfect setting for your day here. Venues that offer either direct lake views or large, private gardens are particularly popular. Some venues specialise in intimate celebrations, others in large parties. It is important to note that many wedding venues have a strict closing time until 11 pm or midnight. Additional costs are incurred if the closing time is extended.
Below I present some of the most beautiful Wedding venues on Lake Garda that have proven their worth in recent years.
Villa Cortine Palace Hotel
The Villa Cortine Palace in Sirmione is one of the most exclusive Wedding venues on Lake Garda. The historic villa is situated slightly elevated on a peninsula and is surrounded by a private park surrounded. The view of southern Lake Garda and the elegant atmosphere make the location particularly popular for weddings.
Free weddings are usually held in the garden or on the panoramic terrace. For the reception there are several Terraces and an elegant Ballroom at your disposal. The peaceful location surrounded by greenery and the stylish architecture provide a harmonious backdrop for your wedding day.
Important facts:
- Wedding in the Garden or on the Terrace possible
- Private park and Own jetty directly at the lake
- Overnight stay in 5-star hotel directly on the premises
- Weddings are limited to about 60 to 100 guests designed
- Centrally located, but shielded from the tourist crowds of the old town
The Villa Cortine Palace is particularly suitable for couples who exclusivebut nevertheless relaxed wedding want to celebrate on Lake Garda. It is important to note that this wedding location can only be booked for three days at a time.
Isola del Garda
The Isola del Garda is one of the most extraordinary Wedding venues on Lake Garda. The private island is located off the west coast near San Felice del Benaco and can only be reached by boat and overnight stays are not possible. Especially the impressive neo-Gothic villa and the extensive botanical garden make weddings here a special experience.
Free weddings are usually held in the garden with a view of the lake or in the villa's inner courtyard. Various terraces are available for the reception, which can be used flexibly depending on the number of guests.
Important facts:
- Travelling by boat from various locations around Lake Garda
- Wedding in the Garden, Inner courtyard or on the Lake terrace possible
- Ideal for 60 to 100 guests
- Exclusive use of the island for weddings
- Surrounded by centuries-old trees, Mediterranean plants and hidden paths
The Isola del Garda is perfect for couples who want to Special backdrop and offer their guests a genuine Highlight want to offer. The journey across the water alone makes for a unique experience.
Villa Fiordaliso
The Villa Fiordaliso is located directly on the water in Gardone Riviera and is one of the most charming Wedding venues on Lake Garda. The historic property dates back to the Belle Époque and offers an elegant yet intimate atmosphere. The direct access to the lake and the well-tended garden make it a popular venue for smaller weddings.
Free weddings are usually held in the garden or on the terrace with a view of Lake Garda. The reception can take place outside in the greenery or in the stylish salons of the villa.
Important facts:
- Direct lakeside location in Gardone Riviera
- Wedding ceremony in the garden or on the Lake terrace possible
- Ideal for 20 to 60 guests
- Stylish salons for smaller parties
- Overnight stay in luxurious Suites possible
The Villa Fiordaliso is particularly suitable for couples who exclusive, small wedding by the lake. Thanks to the manageable size, the setting remains personal and stylish.
Villa San Vigilio
The Villa San Vigilio is situated on a small peninsula on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, between Garda and Torri del Benaco. The historic estate from the 16th century is one of the most famous Wedding venues on Lake Garda. Particularly impressive is the quiet location directly on the water and the private atmosphere that the villa offers.
Free weddings are usually held in the inner courtyard, in the garden or on the large stone terrace, which borders directly on the lake. Both indoor rooms and open outdoor areas are available for the reception.
Important facts:
- Exclusive location on a private headland
- Wedding ceremony in the courtyard, in the Garden or on the Lake terrace
- Suitable for 30 to 120 guests
- Possibility to order per Boat Travelling directly
- Authentic architecture with old walls, cypresses and olive groves
The Villa San Vigilio is perfect for couples who want to historic location and attach importance to a Special atmosphere directly on the lake. Arriving by boat also makes the wedding a real experience.
La Torre San Marco
The La Torre San Marco is located directly on the lakeshore in Gardone Riviera and is one of the most striking Wedding venues on Lake Garda. The historic watchtower was built at the beginning of the 20th century and offers an extraordinary backdrop with a mix of history and modern gastronomy.
Free weddings usually take place in the garden, on the terrace or directly at the foot of the tower. A large outdoor terrace right on the water is available for the reception. In the evening, the lighting of the tower creates a special atmosphere.
Important facts:
- Direct lakeside location with a view of Lake Garda
- Wedding ceremony in the garden, on the Terrace or on Tower
- Perfect for 50 to 150 guests
- Combination of historical architecture and modern facilities
- Travelling also by Boat possible
The La Torre San Marco is ideal for couples who want to Special backdrop and a solemn but modern wedding on Lake Garda. Impressive pictures are taken here, especially at sunset.
Villa Cariola
The Villa Cariola is located a little above Lake Garda near Caprino Veronese. The historic villa from the 15th century offers a peaceful location surrounded by greenery and is ideal for larger celebrations. With its combination of nature, panoramic views and elegant architecture, it is one of the most versatile Wedding venues on Lake Garda.
Free weddings can take place in the large garden, on a panoramic terrace or in the inner courtyard. Various halls and outdoor areas are available for the celebration, so that flexible plans can be made depending on the weather.
Important facts:
- Quiet Hillside location with a view of Lake Garda
- Wedding ceremony in the garden, on the Terrace or in the Inner courtyard
- Ideal for 50 to 200 guests
- Spacious outdoor areas and elegant banqueting halls
- Overnight accommodation for guests directly on the premises
The Villa Cariola is perfect for couples who want to larger wedding in the green surroundings of Lake Garda without sacrificing style and comfort.
Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli
The Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli in Gargnano is one of the most exclusive addresses on Lake Garda. The historic 19th century villa is located directly on the water, nestled in a spacious park. Here, classic luxury meets absolute privacy - ideal for weddings of the highest calibre.
Free weddings usually take place in the garden, on the lakeside terrace or under the estate's mature trees. Elegant salons and outdoor areas are available for the celebration, which can be individually decorated.
Important facts:
- Direct lakeside location with large, private park
- Wedding ceremony in the garden, on the Terrace or under old Cypresses
- Ideal for Smaller, exclusive weddings with about 20 to 60 guests
- 5-star service with private chef and own concierge
- Absolute Privacy - the villa is booked exclusively for weddings
The Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli is perfect for couples who want to High-quality, discreet wedding and attach great importance to a private ambience with first-class service.
Villa Sostaga
The Villa Sostaga lies above Gargnano and offers a sweeping view over Lake Garda. The historic villa has been stylishly renovated and combines classic charm with modern comfort. Its quiet location on a hill makes it one of the most relaxing places to stay. Wedding venues on Lake Garda.
Free weddings take place in the garden or on the panoramic terrace. The subsequent celebration can take place in the restaurant area or on the large outdoor terrace in the open air.
Important facts:
- Hillside location with spectacular views of Lake Garda
- Wedding ceremony in the garden or on the Panoramic terrace
- Ideal for 20 to 70 guests
- Familiar atmosphere and stylish rooms for overnight stays
- Flexible for smaller, relaxed wedding celebrations
The Villa Sostaga is particularly suitable for couples who Quiet, informal wedding want to celebrate in a stylish setting, away from the tourist centres.
La Finestra Sul Fiume
The La Finestra Sul Fiume is a small boutique hotel in Valeggio sul Minciosouth of Lake Garda. The location is idyllically situated directly on a river and offers an intimate, natural setting. Perfect for anyone who wants to celebrate a quiet, private wedding surrounded by nature.
Free weddings usually take place in the spacious garden or directly on the riverbank. Small celebrations can be organised on the terraces or under the old trees.
Important facts:
- Romantic location on the river Mincio, approx. 30 minutes from Lake Garda
- Wedding ceremony in the garden or on Riverbank
- Ideal for 10 to 40 guests
- Perfect for small, personal celebrations or elopements
- Overnight stay in charming rooms possible
The La Finestra Sul Fiume is ideal for couples who intimate, relaxed wedding in natural surroundings - away from the classic Lake Garda hotspots, but still close by.
Astoria Resort
The Astoria Resort lies in Riva del Gardain the northern part of Lake Garda. The modern complex combines an elegant hotel concept with spacious gardens and stylish event areas. Ideal for couples looking for a modern yet relaxed holiday. Wedding location on Lake Garda search.
Free weddings are possible in the garden or under a specially prepared pergola. Several rooms and a modern outdoor area are available for the celebration, which can be flexibly organised.
Important facts:
- Modern system with large, well-tended garden
- Wedding ceremony in the garden or under the Pergola
- Ideal for 50 to 120 guests
- Perfect infrastructure for weddings with overnight accommodation
- Good accessibility, also for international guests
The Astoria Resort is perfect for couples who want to Modern, uncomplicated wedding with hotel comfort and stylish surroundings on Lake Garda.
Eden Reserve Hotel & Villas
The Eden Reserve Hotel & Villas lies above Gardone Riviera on the western shore of Lake Garda. The modern, exclusive resort consists of a small luxury hotel and private designer villas. Thanks to its elevated position, the resort offers a unique view over the lake and the surrounding landscape - perfect for a stylish holiday. Wedding on Lake Garda.
Free weddings usually take place on one of the private terraces or in the garden of the villas. The subsequent celebration can be organised in a villa, in the hotel restaurant or on a panoramic terrace.
Important facts:
- Modern luxury villas and Boutique hotel in an exclusive hillside location
- Wedding ceremony on the terrace, in the Garden or in the Panorama area
- Ideal for Small to medium-sized celebrations with 20 to 80 guests
- Private use of villas possible
- 5-star service, spa, private pool and personalised attention
The Eden Reserve Hotel & Villas is ideal for couples who modern, private wedding want to celebrate in an exclusive ambience - with plenty of peace, a view and high-quality service.
Lido Palace Riva del Garda
The Lido Palace in Riva del Garda is one of the most elegant hotels on the north shore of the lake. The historic building from the turn of the century has been extensively renovated and combines classic architecture with modern luxury. Anyone looking for a stylish and exclusive Wedding location on Lake Garda will find the right setting here.
Free weddings usually take place on the terrace or in the well-tended park. Various elegant rooms are available for the celebration, which can be customised.
Important facts:
- Historic building with a modern, luxurious interior
- Wedding ceremony on the terrace or in the Park
- Ideal for 20 to 80 guests
- 5-star service with gourmet restaurant and spa
- Perfect location directly in Riva del Garda, just a few minutes from the lakeshore
The Lido Palace is ideal for couples who exclusive wedding want to celebrate in an elegant ambience and at the same time value the best service.
Palazzo Arzaga Hotel & Spa Resort
The Palazzo Arzaga Hotel & Spa Resort lies between south-west Lake Garda and Brescia, nestled in the rolling hills of Calvagese della Riviera. The historic villa from the 15th century has been converted into an exclusive golf and spa resort and is now one of the quieter, more luxurious resorts in the area. Wedding venues on Lake Garda.
Free weddings can take place in the inner courtyard, in the garden or on the spacious terraces. Elegant historic rooms and large outdoor areas are available for celebrations.
Important facts:
- Historic villa with modern amenities
- Wedding ceremony in the courtyard, in the Garden or on the Terrace
- Ideal for 50 to 150 guests
- Golf course, spa and luxury accommodation directly on the premises
- Quiet location, approx. 15 minutes from Lake Garda removed
The Palazzo Arzaga is perfect for couples who want to exclusive wedding in a quiet, elegant surroundings but don't want to celebrate directly on the lake.
Villa dei Cipressi
The Villa dei Cipressi lies in Sonanot far from Verona and around 15 kilometres from Lake Garda. This historic 19th century estate is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Free weddings can take place in the extensive park or on the terrace with panoramic views. Elegant interiors with historical details are available for the celebration.
Important facts:
- LocationSona, near Verona, approx. 15 km from Lake Garda
- CapacityIdeal for 50 to 120 guests
- Special featuresSurrounded by vineyards and olive groves, in-house wine cellar for wine tastings
- AccommodationOvernight accommodation for guests directly on the estate
The Villa dei Cipressi is ideal for couples who are looking for a romantic wedding surrounded by nature and close to Lake Garda.
Villa Mosconi Bertani
The Villa Mosconi Bertani is located in the Valpolicella regionabout 20 kilometres east of Lake Garda. This impressive 18th century estate is surrounded by vineyards and an eight-hectare park.
Free weddings can take place in the picturesque garden, in the courtyard or in the magnificent halls of the villa. The historic wine cellars also provide a unique backdrop for receptions or wine tastings.
Important facts:
- LocationNegrar di Valpolicella, approx. 20 km from Lake Garda
- CapacitySuitable for up to 200 guests
- Special features: Historic winery, extensive park with lake, possibility for civil wedding ceremonies on site
- AccommodationNo accommodation directly on the property, but numerous options nearby
The Villa Mosconi Bertani is ideal for couples who elegant wedding in a historical ambience with a wine tradition.
Villa Rizzardi
The Villa Rizzardi lies in the Valpolicella regionabout 15 kilometres north-east of Lake Garda. The estate is characterised by its magnificent Italian gardens and classical architecture.
Free weddings can be held in the impressive garden or in the elegant interior of the villa. The spacious outdoor areas are ideal for open-air receptions.
Important facts:
- LocationNegrar di Valpolicella, approx. 15 km from Lake Garda
- CapacityIdeal for 50 to 150 guests
- Special features: Famous gardens with temples and sculptures, flexible room design for events
- AccommodationNo accommodation directly on the property, but numerous options in the surrounding area
The Villa Rizzardi is perfect for couples who want to romantic wedding in the midst of artfully designed gardens and historical architecture.
Questions about a Lake Garda wedding
Can I get married in Italy as a German citizen?
Yes, you can be German citizens in Italy quite officially civil marriage. Italian marriages are fully recognised in Germany. However, there are a few important points to bear in mind.
In order for the wedding to be legally valid, you need the following documents:
- Valid passports or identity cards
- International birth certificates
- Certificate of no impediment to marriage (issued by the registry office of your place of residence)
- If you were already married: Divorce decree or Death certificate of the former partner
All documents must be translated into Italian and some must be authenticated by an apostille stamp. In addition, the Italian municipality where you are getting married requires you to register in person or appoint a lawyer or wedding planner to represent you.
In Italy Civil weddings only possible at certain locations - such as the town hall, castles or officially authorised outposts. Many places around the Lake Garda offer special wedding venues, such as castles, villas or gardens directly on the lake.
A small note: Most municipalities require that a official interpreter is present if you do not speak fluent Italian. You can also call in professional service providers or your wedding planner for this.
Conclusion:
A civil wedding in Italy is easily possible for German couples, but requires early preparation and some bureaucracy. With good planning, your Lake Garda wedding nothing stands in the way.
How much does a civil wedding in Italy cost?
The Costs for a civil wedding in Italy depend heavily on the municipality and the desired wedding venue. Basically, you should expect the following expenses:
Registry office fee:
In smaller municipalities, the fees start at around 500 Euro.
In popular locations or at special wedding venues (e.g. castles, villas or outposts), the costs can be reduced to 1,000 to 2,500 euros rise.
Fees for documents:
Certificate of no impediment to marriagedepending on the federal state approx. 60 to 120 Euro
International birth certificate: about 10 to 20 Euro per person
Legalisations and apostilles: approx. 50 to 150 Euro
