Eloping in Italy sounds like the ultimate spontaneous adventure, right? Hopping on a plane, finding a dreamy spot in the Dolomites or on the Amalfi Coast, and saying “I do” without a long planning process. And yes — last minute elopement can happen. But before you book those flights, there are a few important things you need to know.

1. Your Ceremony Will Be Symbolic

If you’re hoping for a legal wedding ceremony in Italy, it won’t be possible last-minute. By law, couples must apply for a marriage license at least three months in advance.

That might sound like a deal-breaker, but for most couples it really isn’t — almost all of my clients get legally married in their home country before or after their elopement, and have a symbolic ceremony in Italy. That way, your Italian elopement is all about the vows, the experience, and the adventure. Getting legally married in Italy requires quite a bit of paperwork, translations, two witnesses and still going to a courthouse (you can not get legally married in the mountains or on the fields in Tuscany). This is why couples most of the couples do the legal part in their home country – it is way more stress-free and usually also doable last minute.

2. Vendors Might Already Be Booked

Italy is one of the most popular wedding destinations in the world. Vendors — especially photographers, videographers, and makeup artists — are often booked months, sometimes even years, in advance.

For a last-minute elopement, you’ll need to be flexible. Here’s what you can expect:

• Photographer – This is the one vendor I recommend prioritizing. Having someone capture your day and guide you through locations makes all the difference. Choose someone who already knows the area. There might not be enough time for him/her to get to know the area before you arrive. Also, choose an elopement photographer, not a wedding photographer, there is a big difference in their services 😉 Read about How to choose a photographer for your elopement
• Videographer – Finding one on short notice may be difficult.
• Hair & Makeup – Summer weekends book up fast, so you may need to do your own styling or book a salon appointment instead.
• Florist – A custom bouquet may not be possible, but you can usually get a simple arrangement from a local flower shop.

Remember: you don’t need a huge vendor team to create an incredible day. A photographer + the two of you is already enough for a magical elopement. I’ve had plenty of amazing, emotional and stunning elopements just me and the couple, no other vendors included!

3. Attire: What to Wear on Short Notice

If you’re planning a last-minute elopement, finding something to wear is key. Luckily, if you’re a standard size, most bridal shops have off-the-rack dresses you can take home the same day.

If you need to order a custom gown or size, that typically takes months. In that case, consider:

• Renting a gown
• Choosing a white dress from a regular boutique (many work beautifully for elopements)
• Keeping it simple and comfortable — flowy dresses are perfect for hiking or beach ceremonies

Your partner’s outfit can also be as simple as buying a suit or smart outfit off-the-rack. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s comfort and feeling like yourselves.

4. Rings

Don’t forget the rings! If you already have your wedding bands, perfect — you’re set. If not, know that custom-made rings usually require weeks or months to design and produce.

For last-minute elopements, you can:

• You can even buy your rings locally in Italy — many jewelers carry stunning ready-to-wear designs. They can be simple rings, but don’t have to be plain bands either. I actually found my own dream ring in a store in the perfect size, with 15 diamonds on it, and was able to take it home the very same day. Sometimes the perfect ring is waiting for you, no custom order required.
• Use placeholder rings for the ceremony and upgrade later.
• Or even skip the rings entirely if they’re not important to you — for some couples it is your vows that truly matter.

The important part is the symbolism, not the price tag or how custom they are.

5. Travel & Logistics

Last-minute travel comes with higher flight and hotel prices, especially in peak season (May–September). If you’re flexible with your dates and locations (e.g., choosing a less touristy area around Lake Garda instead of Lake Como), you’ll have a better chance of finding availability. You also may not get your “dream hotel,” but Italy has plenty of charming guesthouses and boutique stays that make wonderful alternatives. If you are already traveling to Italy, have booked the flights and accommodation, and then decide to combine the trip with a last minute elopement, it is easier 🙂

6. Activities & Extras

Even if you’re planning last-minute, you can still add experiences to make your day special:

• A private boat ride on lake
• A celebratory dinner at a local trattoria
• A sunrise hike for epic views and fewer crowds
• Writing and reading personal vows in a quiet spot

The more flexible you are with your expectations, the more memorable your day will feel.

So… Should You Consider a Last Minute Elopement in Italy?

The short answer: yes, but with flexibility.

If you’re okay with a symbolic ceremony, willing to simplify your vendor team, and ready to embrace the adventure of finding outfits and rings on short notice, then a last-minute Italian elopement can be very magical.

If you prefer more choice, a dream gown, custom rings, and a guaranteed vendor team, planning a little further ahead will give you that freedom.

Either way — whether it’s months in advance or just a few weeks out — my job is to help you create a day that’s meaningful, stress-free, and unforgettable 🤗

Other blog posts you might be interested in:

How to elope in Italy?

How much does it cost to elope in Italy?

Getting legally married in Italy

Splurge or Save: Where to Invest in Your Elopement