How to Choose Your 2026 Wedding Date in Italy
So you’re dreaming about a 2026 wedding in Italy, the first big question is: when?
Your date is the foundation for everything! The vibe of your wedding, the weather, your budget, and whether your favorite people can make the trip. The truth is, in Italy, the date you choose shapes the entire experience.
Here’s how to think about it so you pick a date that feels just right for you.
Your destination wedding date isn’t just a spot on the calendar. It impacts:
Availability. The best venues (and vendors) in Italy book out 18–24 months ahead. By early 2025, prime weekends in 2026 will already be gone.
Weather + Atmosphere. Italy in July feels completely different from Italy in October.
Guest Travel. Some dates are easier and more affordable for your guests to attend.
Budget. Popular months = higher rates. Shoulder seasons = a little breathing room.
What Each Season Feels Like in Italy
🌸 Spring (April–May 2026)
Fresh, blooming, alive. Gardens and olive groves are stunning, the weather is mild, and it’s a little easier on your budget than peak summer. Just keep in mind Easter (March 29, 2026) — travel gets pricier around the holiday.
☀️ Summer (June–July-August 2026)
Think long, golden days, dinners under the stars, and late-night pool parties. It’s festive and full of energy, but also peak tourist season. July + August can be very hot, especially in Tuscany — so keep that in mind if you’re picturing lots of outdoor time.
🍇 Autumn (September–October 2026)
This is Italy’s magic season. The vineyards are full, the sunsets are golden, and the food is at its best (truffles, figs, wine harvest). September is the most popular month of the year, so it books quickly. October can be gorgeous too, though you’ll want a rain backup just in case.
❄️ Winter (November–March 2026)
Cozy, romantic, intimate. Think castles, candlelight, fireplaces and maybe even snowy mountains if you head north. It’s less expensive, and December weddings can be magical with Italy’s Christmas lights everywhere. Just know it’s more of an indoor vibe.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect 2026 Date
Book early. If you’re eyeing June or September 2026, don’t wait. Those dates will be gone fast.
Think of your guests. Avoid the big holidays (Easter, Christmas, August vacations) when flights skyrocket.
Match your vision to the season. Picture yourself — is it under twinkly lights in warm September air? Or in a spring garden with everything blooming?
Balance budget + beauty. Shoulder months like May or October can give you the same magic as peak season, with less competition.
Choose a date that feels personal. An anniversary, a lucky number, or just a time of year you both love.
FAQs: Picking Your Wedding Date in Italy
How far in advance should we book?
For 2026, 18–24 months out is ideal. Popular weekends disappear first. If you are more flexible you can book even 6 months out!
What’s the most popular wedding month?
June and September are always the busiest.
What about weekdays?
Yes! A weekday wedding can save you money and still give guests time to travel.
Is it too soon to plan for 2026?
Not at all. If anything, this is the perfect time to secure your dream venue before it’s fully booked.
Is it too late to plan for 2026?
Also no! Reach out to your dream venue and see what dates they still have available. It’s even possible to get a ‘late bird’ discount to fill their last remaining dates for a destination wedding in 2026!
Your 2026 Wedding in Tuscany
The date you choose shapes everything about your wedding. Whether you imagine yourself in the golden harvest of September, the fresh bloom of May, or the festive glow of December, Italy has a season for every love story.
At Castello di Ristonchi, we host a limited number of weddings each year, and our 2026 calendar is already starting to fill. Each one is a retreat — not just a wedding day, but days of connection, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
💌 If you’re ready to start dreaming, explore our retreat packages and let’s find your perfect 2026 date together.
