Civil Weddings in Portofino: A Chic and Romantic Italian Celebration

Portofino, one of Italy's most iconic coastal towns, offers an enchanting and sophisticated setting for a civil wedding. Nestled in the Ligurian region along the Italian Riviera, Portofino is renowned for its vibrant harbor, colorful buildings, and lush Mediterranean landscapes. It’s a haven for couples who want to celebrate their special day in a location that exudes elegance and charm, with breathtaking views and a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere.

If you're looking for a stunning location to exchange your vows in a legally binding civil ceremony, Portofino is the perfect destination. Whether you’re drawn to the town's charming piazzas, historical sites, or panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea, Portofino offers a unique and romantic experience for your wedding.

Top Civil Wedding Venues in Portofino

Portofino Town Hall (Palazzo Comunale)
Portofino’s Town Hall, known as the Palazzo Comunale, offers an elegant and historic venue for a civil wedding ceremony. Situated in the heart of the town, the Town Hall offers an intimate setting with a unique blend of traditional charm and modern convenience. The ceremony takes place in a small yet beautiful hall, where you can exchange vows in front of close family and friends. The stunning backdrop of the town’s colorful buildings and scenic harbor makes this venue an excellent choice for couples seeking a truly memorable wedding experience.

Hotel Splendido and Hotel Splendido Mare
For couples seeking a luxurious and panoramic venue, the renowned Hotel Splendido and its sister property, Hotel Splendido Mare, offer exceptional options for civil weddings. Both hotels offer stunning views of the Portofino harbor and provide a stylish and elegant setting for your ceremony. Hotel Splendido, perched on a hill overlooking the bay, offers expansive terraces and gardens where you can hold a private wedding with the sea as your backdrop. Hotel Splendido Mare, located right in the heart of Portofino, provides an ideal location for couples who prefer a more intimate and exclusive ceremony.

Castello Brown
If you're looking for a historic and visually striking venue, Castello Brown offers an exceptional choice. Located on the hilltop above Portofino, this medieval fortress provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the Ligurian Sea and the town below. The castle's charming architecture, picturesque gardens, and romantic atmosphere make it a wonderful venue for a civil wedding. Whether you're hosting an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, Castello Brown offers the perfect setting for a fairytale wedding.

La Cervara Abbey (Abbazia della Cervara)
For a more serene and intimate setting, La Cervara Abbey, a historical abbey nestled just outside Portofino, offers a magnificent venue for a civil ceremony. Surrounded by lush gardens, olive groves, and panoramic views of the sea, the abbey creates a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. With its centuries-old history and stunning natural beauty, La Cervara Abbey is perfect for couples seeking a calm, serene, and picturesque wedding location.

The Civil Wedding Ceremony in Portofino

A civil wedding ceremony in Portofino is legally binding, with official officiants conducting the ceremony in Italian. The ceremony typically lasts around 15 to 30 minutes, and the proceedings can be personalized to reflect the couple's wishes.

• Officiant: The ceremony is conducted by a local municipal official, such as the mayor or another authorized official. While the ceremony is short and to the point, the officiant will help ensure a meaningful and personal experience. International couples can also arrange for an interpreter or bilingual officiant to ensure that all guests understand the ceremony.

• Customization: Although the civil ceremony in Italy is more formal than a symbolic one, couples can still personalize certain aspects. You can include readings, special music, and even exchange personalized vows. Our wedding planning team can help you create the perfect ceremony that reflects your relationship and adds a personal touch to your day.

Legal Requirements for a Civil Wedding in Portofino

Couples who wish to marry in Portofino must meet certain legal requirements. The civil ceremony is legally binding in Italy, and it’s important to ensure that all paperwork is in order before the wedding day. Here are the key steps and requirements:

• Residency Requirements: At least one of the parties must be a resident of Italy for a minimum of two weeks before the ceremony. However, this residency requirement can sometimes be waived for international couples with the right paperwork.

• Documents Needed: Couples must provide the following documents:

  • Passports (valid for both parties)
  • Birth certificates (with an official translation into Italian)
  • Declaration of No Impediment to Marriage (to confirm that you are both legally free to marry). This certificate is issued by your home country and should also be translated into Italian.

• Additional Documentation: If either partner has previously been married, proof of divorce or a death certificate (if widowed) will be required. If you are a non-Italian citizen, the necessary documents must be translated by an official translator.

• Apostille: Some documents may require an apostille (official certification) to verify their authenticity. This is especially important for documents such as birth certificates and divorce decrees.

Wedding Fees

The cost of a civil wedding in Portofino will depend on the venue, time of year, and the services you require. Here is an approximate breakdown of costs:

• Portofino Town Hall:

  • Weekdays: €400–€600
  • Weekends: €600–€800

• Hotel Splendido or Hotel Splendido Mare:

  • Weekdays: €1,500–€2,500
  • Weekends: €2,000–€3,500

• Castello Brown:

  • Weekdays: €1,500–€2,500
  • Weekends: €2,000–€4,000

• La Cervara Abbey:

  • Weekdays: €1,000–€1,800
  • Weekends: €1,500–€3,000

These fees typically cover the use of the venue and officiant services. Additional costs may apply for elements such as floral arrangements, music, photography, transportation, and catering, which can be customized based on your preferences.

Planning Your Civil Wedding in Portofino

As your dedicated wedding planner, we will help you with every detail of your civil wedding in Portofino, from arranging the legal paperwork to selecting the perfect venue, coordinating vendors, and ensuring a flawless experience on your special day. We’ll take care of the logistics and help personalize the ceremony to suit your style and vision, so you can focus on enjoying the moment with your loved ones.

Portofino is one of Italy’s most sought-after wedding destinations, and with its breathtaking beauty, world-class venues, and romantic atmosphere, it’s easy to see why. Let us help you plan your dream wedding in this enchanting coastal paradise, creating memories that will last a lifetime.