Brianna & Matt

Known for its picturesque landscapes, its rich history, artistic legacy, and fantastic cuisine. Tuscany is regarded as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and the foundation of the Italian language that is spoken today.

The wedding venue, Castello Il Palagio, is a Tuscan castle dating back to the 13th century. Castello Il Palagio is located in the famous Tuscan countryside located between Siena and Florence; making it the perfect location for culinary tours, truffle hunting, wine tasting excursions, and more!

Chianti is the iconic hilly region in central Tuscany known for its award-winning vineyards and villas. The area described as the "Chianti" region is actually a reference to an Italian DOCG wine produced in the provinces of Arezzo, Florence, Pisa, Pistoia, Prato and Siena.

Florence has its own airport, commonly called Peretola (FLR). The city of Florence can be easily reached by other airports including Pisa, Perugia, Bologna, Milan, Rome, and Genoa. Pisa airport is the most popular for flights within Europe, while Rome, Milan, or Bologna are the most common airports for flights from the United States.

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from the USA to Florence, Italy. Flights often stop in Zurich (a very clean, efficient, and organized airport). If you prefer a direct flight, you can fly nonstop to Milan and Rome from EWR, PHL, JFK, and LGA.

From Florence, you can easily rent a car or book a car service to make the 45 minute trip to Greve in Chianti.

Another popular option is to fly directly into Rome. Rome-Fiumicino International Airport (FCO) is the main airport of Rome. If you're flying using any of the major carriers, chances are you'll fly into this location, also known as Leonardo da Vinci Airport. This is a large international airport, and there are three main terminals servicing a number of different airlines. 

Traveling from Rome to Florence is about 1.5 hrs on the high speed train and 3hrs 20 minutes on the regional train.

TIP If driving from Rome to Tuscany, consider visiting the following cities on your way: Siena, Perugia, Orvieto, Arezzo, Montalcino, Tivoli, and Montepulciano. The trip by car is approximately 3.5hrs. 

Flying to Milan is another easy option for guests who may have interest in visiting Cinque Terre, Lake Como, or other beautiful sites in the Northern part of the county. 

Milan Malpensa International Airport (MXP) is the largest airport in Italy, handling the most international flights to Italy. Milan Linate (LIN) is closest to the city center and serves mostly flights from within Italy. 

Traveling to Tuscany from Milan is easily done by car or train. The rail system in Italy is extremely affordable and efficient. In just 1 hour and 40 minutes you can zip to Florence by train from Milan for just under $45. 

Passports

You will need a passport in good standing in order to fly abroad. Be sure your passport does not expire within 6 months of your trip. This can prevent you from being able to leave the country.

Information on car rentals, private drivers, and airport transfers to come!

Italy remains pleasantly warm in September and the early days of October. This time offers a wonderful opportunity to visit beaches without encountering large crowds and to relish cool evenings.

AMALFI COAST

The Amalfi Coast in southern Italy, with its stunning Mediterranean views, sits between the Sorrentine Peninsula and the Cilentan Coast. Named after the charming town of Amalfi, it's been a magnet for the jet set since the 18th century. Adorned with ornate villas, domed churches, lemon groves, and vineyards, it's been a hit since Roman times. Whether you're into hiking, swimming, or sailing, or just prefer shopping, sunbathing, and enjoying a sunset Spritz, the Amalfi Coast has something for everyone!

MATERA

Matera, situated in the region of Basilicata, Southern Italy, is both a city and the capital of the Province of Matera. Boasting a history of uninterrupted occupation dating back to the Palaeolithic era (10th millennium BC), Matera is famous for its rock-cut urban core, referred to as the Sassi, consisting of twin cliffside zones.

SARDINIA

Sardinia, Italy's second-largest island, is a Mediterranean gem. Positioned west of the Italian Peninsula and south of Corsica, it boasts over 1,000 miles of coastline and a scenic interior. Known for its splendid beaches, unique culture, and dialect, Sardinia is also a Blue Zone, where people live exceptionally long lives. It offers the best of both worlds – from the luxurious Costa Smeralda with its yacht-filled waters to the laid-back charm of medieval towns, where traditional sheepherding still thrives. Explore ancient ruins like the UNESCO-listed Su Nuraxi di Barumini for a journey through time!

SICILY

Sicily, the largest and most populous island in the Mediterranean Sea, is one of Italy's 20 regions and an autonomous region officially known as Regione Siciliana. With a population of 4.8 million, its capital is Palermo. Named after the Sicels, its history dates back to the Iron Age. From vibrant Palermo to hilltop Taormina and western Trapani, Sicily is gaining recognition as a magical destination. The diverse island offers beaches, mountains, active volcanoes, and winter skiing. Well-preserved archaeological sites and structures reflect its rich history, home to Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, and others. The indigenous Sicanians, occupying the island since around 8000 BC, gave Sicily its name.