When getting married or honeymooning in Italy, one thinks first of Rome perhaps? Venice? The Amalfi coast? Let's start there.
By: Barry RosenbloomAmalfi Coast
The Amalfi coast is made up of several small towns and is located about an hour and a half drive out of Naples in the region of Campania. Naples is an easy flight from the states and a fascinating city in its own right — more on that later.
Positano, Sorrento and Amalfi are the three main cities on the coast — Amalfi itself perhaps less known than the others. But in Amalfi, you'll find Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel, so named because it used to be a convent in the 13th century. In fact, if you're looking to get married on your trip, there's actually a 12th century chapel inside the hotel for Catholic ceremonies, as well as several other options.
The hotel is built into the cliffside with an incredible view, and it earns every one of its five stars with impeccable service, amazing management and incredible cuisine: Dei Cappuccino for an incredible tasting menu, or La Locanda Della Canonica for fantastic grilled fish and remarkable pizza — you're covered either way.
Drinks on the balcony overlooking the Med Sea? Wow. And the intimate spa has incredible massages, speaking from personal experience. They have several special private suites perfectly suited for honeymooners.
Naples
On the way from the Amalfi Coast to Naples, consider a stop at Sorrentino Winery on the slopes of Vesuvius. You can have a great lunch and wine tasting there, or even plan your reception overlooking the vineyard and volcano!
We've all heard of Naples, the birthplace of Margherita pizza. But the bustling city has much more to offer, and one particularly spectacular place to get married is Hotel Grand Vesuvio right by the waterfront. This Grand Dame is a modern oasis in the middle of a very cosmopolitan metropolis. Caruso restaurant on the 9th floor has amazing views and a Michelin star.
Regina/Ischia
We've also heard stories about Capri, but a much more intimate island nearby is Ischia. Giosymar private boat from Naples is the way to go for a fast, private and romantic alternative to the big ferries. Ischia isn't common to Americans, and you won't find many there.
Regina Isabella is in Lacco Ameno, a charming and very walkable town on the NW side of the island . Whether you're having a buffet breakfast with options galore (and free-flowing fresh squeezed orange juice) or a decadent dinner at Indaco, the views are unbeatable. Starters and a glass of prosecco by the water watching sunset colors cross the bay and creep over the island? How romantic. And the list of celebrities who've stayed at the Regina is neverending.
These are some of the top-of-class options for weddings and honeymoons in Campania. If the task of planning a wedding is challenging this far from home, Francesca Buccafusca at DestinationNaples.org is an excellent resource to call upon. Her knowledge of the region is comprehensive.
