15 best places where to honeymoon in Italy

Italy is known as the land of many things.

The land of art and culture, the land of mountains, and most famously, the land of lovers.

Italy consistently features as one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world, and for good reason.

When we talk about amore, there’s no shortage of beautiful places on where to honeymoon in Italy. From Italian islands and beaches to snow-capped mountains and villas, these are 15 of the most romantic destinations in Italy.

Perfect Italy bucket list material, use this post to help plan your trip to Italy. 

Where to honeymoon in Italy

1. Capri

One of the best honeymoon destinations in Italy, the island of Capri has everything you could ask for.

The famous Blue Grotto only accessible by rowboat. Capri’s isolated bays and terraces overlooking the coastal and oceanic ‘faraglioni’ rock formations. The island’s hidden coves and citrus gardens overlooking the sea, the scent of lemons following your every step.

In other words, Capri is an island enveloped in romance.

Romantic things to do in Capri

Stroll hand in hand through the botanical gardens at Giardini di Augusto (Augustus Gardens), a small garden with panoramic views. A scene that becomes more striking thanks to the piercing blue sea, it’s one that’ll stay etched in your memories.

Giardini di Augusto, Via Matteotti, 2

A short 6-minute walk north of the gardens, you’ll arrive at the Piazzetta di Capri. Filled with cafes and bars, it’s an ideal place to soak up the sun and take in the far-reaching views.

Piazzetta di Capri, Piazza Umberto I

To see the island from above, Belvedere di Punta Cannone is easily one of the best viewpoints in Capri. The hilltop viewpoint may be a little long and sometimes challenging, but the reward far outweighs the climb.

Belvedere di Punta Cannone, Via Castello

Capri’s pretty resort town

From the piazzetta, continue walking down Via Roma till you arrive at Marina Piccola. The resort town’s a popular point on Capri, its beach, Spiaggia di Marina Piccola, being a big draw for visitors. Nearby is another small beach, Spiaggia Torre Saracena, which fills up quickly once the peak season arrives.

Spiaggia di Marina Piccola, Via Marina Piccola
Spiaggia Torre Saracena, Via Krupp

To the west of the island is the quaint village of Anacapri. Meander between the small squares and suggestive alleys to catch a glimpse of local life on Capri.

Best sea view hotels in Capri

If you’re looking for the most romantic hotel for your honeymoon in Capri, Hotel Villa Brunella has you covered.

This 4-star hotel has suites with terraces and sea views, an outdoor swimming pool and an on-site restaurant. It’s the ideal setting to enjoy freshly caught fish in the romantic backdrop of the Gulf of Naples.

Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Capri Wine Hotel is my second romantic choice on the island. Modern, bright rooms, a wine bar (as its namesake suggests), a garden and free WiFi, it’s a fantastic find. The hotel’s also an easy 10 minutes’ walk away from the Piazzetta.

2. Venice (Venezia)

Canals, gondoliers and over 400 bridges surrounded by 5+ centuries of history, Venice is a living and breathing fairytale. Beautiful buildings reflecting Gothic, Byzantine and Islamic architectural styles overlook the series of 118 canals.

Romance blossoms from every angle. Stop at a cozy cicchetteria to sample a few Venetian-style tapas. Find a bar in a secluded spot, or by the Grand Canal, to savor a glass of prosecco while the sun sets over Venice.

A city made for lovers, you can explore Venice by booking a gondola ride or on foot. As regular visitors, we enjoy nothing more than getting lost in the city’s narrow streets and discovering new places.

Visit the islands

Maldives it isn’t, but Venice has some beautiful islands to discover while on your honeymoon.

Escape the crowds of Piazza San Marco and head to the delightful islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. Learn about the historic glass-making craft in Murano, before moving on to see the colorful houses of Burano.

If you’re looking for a beach, the one at Lido di Venezia will tick all of your boxes. Blue Moon Beach is sandy, with plenty of space and surrounded by the warm waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Whether you honeymoon in Venice in winter, or in summer, you’re guaranteed a memorable start to your new life chapter.

Venice hotels with a Grand Canal view

Check into a hotel with an authentic Venetian decor at the exquisite Hotel Egò Boutique Hotel The Silk Road. Its location right on the Grand Canal gives you easy access to the best sights in Venice.

Situated a few steps from Ca’ d’Oro and 2 minutes from the Rialto Bridge, this boutique hotel’s a honeymooner’s dream.

Hotel Egò Boutique Hotel The Silk Road, Riva del Carbon San Marco

There’s no better feeling than waking up to the sight of the Grand Canal in Venice in the morning. And, at H10 Palazzo Canova, you get just that. Their junior suites, or suites, come with a canal view and are perfect for honeymooners.

The property also has a romantic rooftop bar, and is close to Venice attractions like the Basilica San Marco.

H10 Palazzo Canova, Riva Del Vin 744

Looking for more Venice hotel inspiration? My guide on 'where to stay in Venice' is your best insider's resource.

3. Verona

As the literary setting of the infamous Romeo and Juliet, Verona is another Italian city made for lovers.

Though the real castles behind the tragic tale are located in Montecchio Maggiore, there’s no denying the romance of Verona.

A town square full of charm and character, Piazza delle Erbe (Herb Square) is a sight to be seen. Home to medieval and renaissance structures like Torre dei Lamberti and the City Hall, it’s impressive as it is beautiful.

The grand Arena di Verona is another of the city’s landmarks and one you can enjoy inside or out. The Roman amphitheatre has large scale performances throughout the year, differing in genres.

When in Verona

The fictional site of the Shakespearian play, Casa di Giulietta is probably the busiest attraction in Verona. In 1905, the city of Verona bought the house from its previous owners, the Dal Capello family.

It’s said that the similarities between the Capulet and Capello name led to the claim that Juliet once lived here. Expect plenty of people when you visit, and a few kissing couples.

Romantic hotels in Verona

With a terrace overlooking the river L’Adige, Lady Verona Residence has a perfect location in the city. Rooms are spacious, come with plenty of natural light, and the hotel’s within walking distance of the center.

Lady Verona Residence, Via Armando Diaz 24

With the Arena di Verona just steps from the front door, Hotel Milano & Spa is an excellent alternative. Rooms are generous in size and modern in design. Along with its location, the hotel also has a top wellness center, complete with steam bath and sauna.

Hotel Milano & Spa, Vicolo Tre Marchetti 11

4. Cinque Terre

When someone asks me where in Italy is best for honeymoon, Cinque Terre usually comes to mind.

A pearl in the Tyrrhenian Sea, the 5 villages that make up Cinque Terre are a unique sight. Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare make up the 5 along this coastal stretch.

So iconic are the villages, it’s said that the setting of the Disney movie Luca was based on Monterosso al Mare.

Suspended between land and sea, the area’s characterized by the colorful, tall and narrow houses, their reflection glistening in the crystalline sea.

A honeymoon destination that needs no itinerary, you can take your time exploring the villages and surrounding coastline.

Romantic places to stay in Cinque Terre

Located in the village of Monterosso al Mare, Hotel Marina is just a few steps from the local beach. Rooms come with all the essential amenities and complimentary WiFi.

Hotel Marina, Via Buranco, 40 Via Roma Park

Stellio Affittacamere – Guest House has colorful and bright rooms and a prime location right by the coast in Riomaggiore. A beautiful choice for your stay in Cinque Terre, the train station is also just 5 minutes’ walk away.

Stellio Affittacamere – Guest House, Via Antonio Gramsci

5. Golfo dei Poetti (Gulf of Poets)

A short drive from Cinque Terre is the seriously romantic sounding Golfo dei Poetti. It encapsulates the region from Porto Venere to the small commune of Lerici. As its name suggests, the gulf has inspired the works of many poets, most famously, English poet Lord Byron.

A succession of terraced hills overlooking the sea, with stairways lead to secret beaches, characterize the Golfo dei Poetti. Add to this, historic castles and charming villages with colorful houses, and you may just leave feeling inspired too.

Beautiful places to stay around Golfo dei Poetti

Located 300m from the city center, Acquamarina has modern and comfortable accommodation — some with terraces. Situated in La Spezia, it’s 2.2 km from San Giorgio Castle and 500m from the Naval Museum.

Acquamarina, Via Urbano Rattazzi, 51

Add a touch of luxury to your stay in La Spezia at Via Chiodo Luxury Rooms. Located in a 19th century building, the modern guesthouse is 1km from the cruise terminal.

Via Chiodo Luxury Rooms, Via Domenico Chiodo, 13

6. Chianti

One of the most romantic parts of Italy — for honeymooners or vacationing couples — is the hilly area of Chianti. Located between Florence and Siena, Chianti is a region characterized by small charming communes, villages, vineyards and rolling green hills. Expect plenty of delicious Chianti wine and unique regional dishes.

Peaceful, serene and wholly romantic, Chianti is a classic Tuscan destination for couples wanting to honeymoon in Italy.

Romantic towns and communes in Chianti

Greve in Chianti

A town whose origins date to the early middle ages, Greve in Chianti is a fascinating step back in time. Its principle town square, Piazza Matteotti, takes on a unique triangular shape.

Filled with shops and bars selling local produce, it’s the beating heart of the town center.

While here, take some time to visit 2 of Greve’s museums. The Museo del Vino (wine museum) tells the history and tradition of producing Chianti wine. Minutes away, the Museo d’Arte Sacra (Museum of Sacred Art) houses painting and sculptures from the 14th to 19th centuries.

Gaiole in Chianti

Tuscan Cypress trees line the road that leads to Gaiole in Chianti. Churches and abbeys dating to the 11th and 12th century fill the small commune.

A town most known for its cycling events, Strade Bianche attracts professional cyclists to compete each March. Come October, the L’Eroica event draws in cyclists with vintage bicycles.

Castellina di Chianti

A town characterized by Etruscan ruins, an ancient acropolis and an Etruscan tomb dating to the 6th century. Flanked by the iconic rolling green hills of Tuscany, Castellina di Chianti is another charming place to see.

Romantic hotels in Chianti

Wood-beamed ceilings, tiled flooring and original stone walls feature in the wonderful Locanda La Casina Di Lilliano. Located in Castellina di Chianti, this homestyle hotel also has an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the Tuscan countryside.

Locanda La Casina Di Lilliano, Localita' Casina Due Ponti, 36

Beautiful big rooms, manicured grounds and panoramic views are what you can expect at Borgo del Cabreo. Located 0.6km from Greve in Chianti, this special hotel is just what your honeymoon ordered.

Borgo del Cabreo, Via Montefioralle Case sparse, 6

Map: where to honeymoon in Italy

7. Firenze (Florence)

Staying in Tuscany, the region’s capital is a regular on the list of best honeymoon destinations in the world.

Renowned for its monuments and renaissance masterpieces, Michelangelo's David and Florence’s Duomo are just several of many architectural highlights.

Watch the sun set from Ponte Vecchio before sitting down to try some of the region’s finest dishes.

Whether you visit Florence in winter, spring, summer or fall, it's a city that never disappoints.

Warm up in Tuscany — where in Italy is best for honeymoon?

Under an hour’s drive from Florence is the Terme di Montecatini. The thermal park’s one of Europe’s most beautiful, and historic, thermal baths, housed in neo-gothic and liberty-style buildings. In a nutshell, it’s a place made for honeymooning couples.

Viale Giuseppe Verdi, 41, 51016 Montecatini Terme PT

Romantic hotels in Florence

Located in the historic center of the city, Solo Experience Hotel has large, modern rooms complete with soundproofing and WiFi. Housed in a 17th century building overlooking Florence's Basilica of San Lorenzo, some rooms overlook Piazza San Lorenzo.

A daily breakfast is served, which includes homemade products. Solo Experience Hotel is a short walk to the Medici Chapels and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

Solo Experience Hotel, Via del Canto dei Nelli, 4

Just outside Florence city center is the magnificent Hotel Villa Agape. Surrounded by an 8-hectare park with olive and cypress trees, it’s a truly romantic hotel for honeymooners.

Housed in the former residence of Duchess Anna d'Orleans, most rooms overlook the hills of Pian dei Giullari. There’s a free shuttle service to and from the city center and free parking for guests. The panoramic terrace of Piazzale Michelangelo is a 5-minute drive away.

Hotel Villa Agape, Via della Torre del Gallo, 8

8. Lago di Como (Lake Como)

A destination that needs no introduction (I think), Lake Como is an iconic honeymoon spot in Italy. It’s also one of the most romantic places in Italy.

We spent 3 glorious days traveling around Lake Como and visiting the many small towns dotted around the area.

Explore the region by car, boat or on foot. The towns of Bellagio and Tremezzo are some of the prettiest, and most popular, in Lake Como. Get off the tourist track and visit lesser known towns like Lenno and Sorico.

A romantic honeymoon that combines relaxation, nature and culture, you can’t go wrong with a honeymoon at Lake Como.

Best honeymoon hotels in Lake Como

Go all out on your honeymoon in Lake Como by booking a few nights at Villa Marina – Como Lake. This beachfront hotel has its own private beach, lake-view terraces and an outdoor hot tub.

A restored Art Nouveau building, rooms are large, and decorated with wood-paneled ceilings and travertine floors.

Villa Marina – Como Lake, 3825+8X Bellano

A little further south from Villa Marina – Como Lake is the equally sublime Casa du Lac. Superior double or twin rooms come with a terrace and lake view, a must for honeymooning couples. Varenna is also one of the prettiest places to see in Lake Como, and the location doesn’t get any better.

Hotel du Lac Varenna, Contrada del Prestino, 11

See 'where to stay in Lake Como' for more romantic hotel ideas categorized by budget.

9. Valle d'Itria (Itria Valley)

A classic honeymoon spot in Italy, the Itria Valley in Puglia is an excellent choice. The Murge plateau extends into several territories including Alberobello, Martina Franca and Cisternio.

Iconic Trulli (houses with pointed stone roofs) are characteristic of the entire area.

The UNESCO world heritage site of Alberobello is one to be seen. Known as the ‘city of trulli’, the hilly district of Rione Monti is filled with these stone houses. One of the most famous is Trullo Sovrano. Spread over two levels, the stone house dates to the 18th century.

‘Casa Pezzolla’ Territory Museum is housed in an interconnected trullo. Inside, it exhibits the tools that were used to recreate the Trulli as it was done in the past.

‘Casa Pezzolla’ Territory Museum, Piazza XXVII Maggio

Grotte di Castellana (Castellana Caves)

Grotte di Castellana is one of the most important places in the Itria Valley. The 3.2km long system of underground caves continuously draws in large crowds to lay eyes on the impressive stalactites. The main cave and ‘White Grotto’ attracts the biggest crowds and the most animated reactions.

Grotte di Castellana, Piazza Franco Anelli, 70013 Castellana Grotte

Martina Franca

Martina Franca is one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in the Itria Valley. Highlights of the town include the Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace) and the Basilica San Martino.

Its small town feel and baroque architecture remind me greatly of Noto in Sicily. Pretty and picturesque, don’t miss visiting when in the Itria Valley.

Palazzo Ducale, Piazza Roma, 28
Basilica San Martino, Via Masaniello, 1

Romantic places to stay in Valle d’Itria

When in Alberobello, nothing can beat staying in an authentic Trullo. And, at Il Gabellota Resort, the hotel offers guests a stay in a trullo or a stone room. Some trulli have a private patio area and a small kitchenette.

An Italian breakfast is served in the breakfast room. Gabellota Resort has an outdoor pool, hot tub in the garden and free private parking.

Il Gabellota, Strada Comunale Gabellota, 5

Located in the heart of Alberobello, Tipico Resort offers rooms in Apulian Trulli houses and stone buildings. Complete with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, it’s a sound choice when staying in Alberobello.

Tipico Resort, Via Brigata Regina, 47

10. Ostuni

Technically part of the Itria Valley, Ostuni — in my opinion — deserves a standalone spot. A popular holiday destination in general in Italy, Ostuni is also a romantic spot for honeymooners.

Ostuni is a place where you can rediscover ancient flavors, old traditions and enjoy the true beauty of the landscape.

A short drive to the coast (around 13 minutes), Ostuni offers the best of both worlds. The city’s famously known for its brilliant white houses, a characteristic that awarded Ostuni the moniker of ‘the white city’.

Ostuni day trips

Coastal villages like Rosa Marina and Pilone make up either a perfect day, or overnight, trip. Not far from Rosa Marina is Parco Naturale Regionale Dune Costiere da Torre Canne a Torre San Leonardo.

The Regional Natural Park of Coastal Dunes from Torre Canne to Torre San Leonardo has beach dunes, wildlife and ancient olive trees.

Parco Naturale Regionale Dune Costiere da Torre Canne a Torre San Leonardo, ss16

Honeymoon hotels in Ostuni

A hotel set among picturesque farmland, Masseria Cervarolo is a dream hotel in Ostuni. Rooms are based in characteristic trulli or a 16th century style stone building. Antique and handmade furniture adorn the rooms and guests can make the most of the outdoor pool.

Masseria Cervarolo, Contrada Cervarolo (S. P. 14)

Dating to the 13th century, Hotel La Terra is located in the old quarter of Ostuni. Some of the rooms still feature the original stonework and its on-site restaurant offers a local taste of Puglia.

Hotel La Terra, Via Gaspare Petrarolo, 16

11. Portofino

A fishing village, characterized by pastel-colored houses, boutiques and restaurants, Portofino is one of the prettiest honeymoon destinations in Italy.

Located on the Ligurian Riviera between the Gulf of Tiglio and Golfo Paradiso, Portofino sits just south east of Genoa.

The town’s most known for its small piazza overlooking the marina and for its colorful houses. Castello Brown (Brown Castle) is a former 16th century castle turned museum, with a lush garden and bay views.

At the tip of Portofino is Faro di Portofino. The lighthouse with an open-air cocktail bar is perfect for savoring the view with a drink in hand.

Castello Brown, Via alla Penisola, 13
Faro di Portofino, Via alla Penisola

With its colors, scents and unforgettable landscapes, Portofino is one of the best places in Italy for honeymoon couples.

Sea view hotels in Portofino

Get the 5-star treat on your honeymoon in Portofino at Splendido, A Belmont Hotel, Portofino. This exquisite hotel offers rooms with a sea, or a garden, view. There are 3 restaurants on site, which serve traditional Ligurian cuisine. An American-style buffet breakfast is served daily.

Splendido, A Belmont Hotel, Portofino, Viale Baratta, 16

Situated right on Portofino’s seafront, Hotel Piccolo Portofino offers some rooms with a terrace and sea view. Just 400m from Portofino’s center, you’re in good hands and a good spot at Hotel Piccolo Portofino.

12. La Maddalena

Swap the waters of the Maldives for the crystalline sea of Sardinia. Suggestive and romantic, the island of La Maddalena is one of the most romantic honeymoon spots in Italy.

Located on the northern tip of Sardinia, La Maddalena has translucent blue water, white sand, dramatic landscapes and unspoiled nature.

Blessed with plenty of beautiful beaches and a scorching climate, it’ll feel more like the Caribbean than the Mediterranean. Some of the best beaches here include Spiaggia di Bassa Trinita, Spiaggia di Cala Spalmatore and Cala Lunga.

My personal favorite, however, lies on the nearby island of Caprera. Bathe in the bluest of the blue waters of the incredible Spiaggia di Cala Coticcio. The colors are classically Sardinian and mesmerizing to see in person.

Honeymoon hotels in La Maddalena

Located in the heart of the island, the Excelsior is a superb choice for La Maddalena. Rooms are elegant and decorated with classic Italian furniture. A buffet breakfast is served in the breakfast room with glorious views of neighboring Santo Stefano island.

Excelsior, Via Amendola, 7

With an outdoor pool, furnished terrace and 2 restaurants, Hotel Cala Lunga offers an equally good alternative in La Maddalena.

Rooms decorated in Sardinian decor, the prestige double and triple rooms come with sea views. A beach located nearby, Hotel Cala Lunga provides guests with free umbrellas and loungers.

Hotel Cala Lunga, Loc. Porto Massimo, La Maddalena

13. Costa Smeralda

My second honeymoon pick in Sardinia is the picturesque Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast). An area that lives up to its name, Costa Smeralda is where those with money come to vacation.

Alongside several gorgeous sandy white beaches, the region’s has golf clubs, exclusive hotels and private jet services. But, if you’re looking for a special honeymoon destination, and you have the budget, consider vacationing at Costa Smeralda.

An area perfect for honeymooners, there’s even a beach, Spiaggia degli innamorati (Lovers Beach), dedicated for couples. A destination where rest and relaxation are a given, Costa Smeralda will stay with you long after the honeymoon.

Romantic hotels in Costa Smeralda

If you're looking for the best Costa Smeralda hotels you've come to the right place.

Luxury is the keyword at the 5-star Villa del Golfo Lifestyle Resort. The stuff that honeymoon dreams are made from, the hotel has rooms and suites to suit different budgets and needs. The superior and luxury suites come with their own garden and pool.

The icing on the cake is the ‘Acqua di Mare’ dinner for 2. Dinner is served on a private deck, with everything from music, food and drinks at sunset included.

Villa del Golfo Lifestyle Resort, Via Monti Corru

A luxury resort decked out in Mediterranean style, Cervo Hotel is located in a central part of Costa Smeralda. With a spa, pool and bright and modern rooms, your honeymoon will be nothing but memorable here.

Cervo Hotel, Costa Smeralda

14. Isole Eolie (Aeolian Islands)

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the combined Aeolian Islands are a honeymoon dream destination in Sicily.

Easy to reach by ferry from Milazzo, the secluded islands and its seductive scenery will instantly draw you in. Stay on the largest island of Lipari, before making several day, or overnight, trips to the neighboring islands.

Marvel at the mini volcanic eruptions on Stromboli by night, and bathe in the volcanic mud on Vulcano by day.

Beneath the rays of the Sicilian sun, the Aeolian Islands are a great choice for your honeymoon in Italy.

Romantic hotels in the Aeolian Islands

Wake up to incredible views at one of these best hotels in Sicily with a view. Set atop a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea is the wonderful Hotel Villa Enrica. Surrounded by acres of fruit trees, this boutique hotel has an infinity pool with hydromassage and a sun
terrace.

Hotel Villa Enrica, Str. Serra - Pirrera, 11

La Settima Luna Hotel has 7 bedrooms, 2 terraces and an outdoor hot tub. Located just 50 yards from the coast, it’s a top choice for honeymooning couples in Italy.

La Settima Luna Hotel, Via Cesare Battisti, 118

15. Favignana, Sicily

Off the west coast of Sicily is another group of islands called the Aegadian Islands. Favignana is the most popular, given its number of beautiful beaches and dramatic caves.

Like Costa Smeralda, Favignana has a spot dedicated for lovers. Grotta degli Innamorati (Lovers Cave) has translucent water weaving through the cave formation. Other noteworthy caves include the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Cave) and Grotta dei Sospiri (Sighs Cave).

Exploring Favignana — where in Italy is best for honeymoon?

If you’re looking for a honeymoon destination in Italy designed for relaxation, Favignana is a good bet. Blessed with wonderful beaches and delightful scenery, it’s a Sicilian alternative worth considering.

Pretty places to stay in Favignana

Camarò Favignana has modern apartments with a fully-equipped kitchen and air-conditioning. The property’s a 10-minute walk from the port of Favignana, which has links to Trapani.

Camarò Favignana, Via Circonvallazione

I Pretti Resort boasts luxurious suites, sea views and views of Levanzo island in the distance. Just 500m from Praia di Favignana beach, the hotel’s also a short walk to the town center. An Italian breakfast of croissants and other pastries is served daily, accompanied by plenty of coffee or tea.

I Pretti Resort, Via Molo S. Leonardo, 1

Romantic borghi (villages) in Italy

Across Italy, you’ll find many ‘borghi’ located around the country. One of the first I visited was the incredible Montemerano in Tuscany. Within the region of Veneto are several beautiful villages and towns also worth seeing.

If you’re interested in visiting some borgi on your honeymoon in Italy, add the following to your list:

• Bobbio, Val Trebbia
• Furore, Amalfi Coast
• Dozza, Emilia-Romagna
• Erice, Sicily

Final thoughts

If you’ve made it this far, I’m hoping I’ve convinced you to consider honeymooning in Italy. The country’s blessed with great weather, stunning landscapes and centuries of history.

Which of these honeymoon destinations would you most like to see? Let me know in the comments below.

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