Villa Durazzo Portofino Elopement – A Romantic Italian Wedding Story
Some weddings feel cinematic—every shimmer of light and every breath of sea air aligning at once. Andrej and Irina’s elopement in Portofino was one of those stories that reminded me why I love photographing weddings. Nestled between sea and hills, Villa Durazzo captures the spirit of the Italian Riviera with frescoed interiors, marble terraces, and panoramic views over the harbor.
Villa Durazzo in Portofino is one of Italy’s most romantic wedding venues—ideal for couples planning an intimate civil ceremony with garden portraits and sunset photos by the sea.
Getting Ready at Hotel Splendido, Portofino
The morning began at Hotel Splendido, perched high above the harbor. The view stretched across the bay as soft golden light filled Irina’s suite. Andrej prepared nearby, calm and focused, glancing at the Ligurian Sea as if to savor the moment.
As a wedding photographer in Portofino, I love mornings like this—quiet anticipation, natural window light, and small details that tell the story before the vows.
See more of my Hotel Splendido weddings in Portofino for inspiration from other celebrations at this iconic venue.
The Ceremony at Villa Durazzo – Il Salone Camelia & Sala Gardenia
The heart of the day unfolded at Villa Durazzo, a 17th-century residence surrounded by terraced gardens. Andrej and Irina exchanged vows in Il Salone Camelia and Sala Gardenia, with a string quartet playing softly as a local representative officiated their civil wedding ceremony. Every word, every glance, every smile felt deeply personal.
This Villa Durazzo wedding was simple yet emotional—pure intimacy framed by frescoes, chandeliers, and the glow of Mediterranean light.
Portraits in Villa Durazzo’s Italian Garden
After the ceremony, we stepped into the Italian gardens—cypress trees, statues, and stone paths leading to sweeping views of Portofino. The afternoon light filtered through the foliage, painting dappled patterns that made every portrait feel timeless.
It’s where I love to blend architecture, nature, and emotion. The light in Portofino is beautifully soft and cinematic—perfect for romantic, painterly images.
Down to the Village – Portofino Harbor & Narrow Streets
We made our way to the Portofino harbor, where colorful houses and bobbing boats created a postcard-perfect backdrop. We wandered through narrow streets, paused for portraits by the water, and—because it’s Italy—stopped for gelato. Those candid moments always become the heart of the story.
If you’re planning a destination wedding in Portofino, the combination of villa elegance and seaside charm is unbeatable.
Explore my Portofino wedding photography portfolio for more stories captured along the Italian Riviera.
San Martino Church & the Hilltop Chapel
We visited San Martino Church with its iconic black-and-white façade and serene interior light. Later, we climbed higher to a small chapel above the village—a peaceful spot where the entire bay opened beneath us. It was the perfect setting for sunset portraits, capturing the essence of an Italian Riviera wedding.
Best Time to Elope in Portofino
The best months for a Portofino elopement are May to September. Expect warm weather, lush gardens, and golden evening light—ideal for outdoor ceremonies at Villa Durazzo and sunset portraits by the harbor.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Married at Villa Durazzo?
Venue fees for Villa Durazzo weddings generally range from €1,500 to €4,000, depending on the room, date, and duration. Additional costs—flowers, music, photography—vary by season. For current pricing and civil documentation, visit the official Comune di Portofino website or consult a local wedding planner.
Photographing Love & Light on the Italian Riviera
At Villa Durazzo, light moves through rooms like a living thing—brushing frescoes, mirrors, and silk. For Andrej and Irina, I focused on presence: quiet observation, natural emotion, and the way sunlight turned each frame into a keepsake.
Great photography is about preserving what you feel, not just what you see.
Why Choose Portofino for Your Destination Wedding
Portofino blends coastal charm, Italian culture, and Mediterranean elegance. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement in Portofino at Villa Durazzo or a celebration at Hotel Splendido, every corner of this village tells a love story.
If you’re planning an engagement or couple’s session, see my Portofino pre-wedding photography for inspiration. You can also browse my wedding photographer in Italy page for destination weddings across Tuscany, Lake Como, and Amalfi.
FAQ – Planning a Portofino Elopement
Where to elope in Portofino?
Top choices include Villa Durazzo for civil ceremonies, Hotel Splendido for preparations and intimate receptions, and the Portofino harbor for romantic portraits. San Martino Church and the nearby chapel on the hill offer classic Italian charm.
Can you have a civil ceremony at Villa Durazzo?
Yes. Villa Durazzo is licensed for civil weddings in Portofino. Ceremonies are officiated by local representatives—often accompanied by live music. More details are available on the Comune di Portofino website.
How to find a wedding photographer in Portofino?
Look for experience with Italian light and architecture and a style that blends artistry with emotion. I specialize in destination weddings in Italy. Get in touch to plan your Portofino wedding photography.
An elegant Hotel Splendido wedding in Portofino, filled with panoramic views, soft Ligurian light, and timeless Italian style. Discover how I capture the essence of love and luxury as a wedding photographer in Portofino, surrounded by the charm of the Riviera.
Start Planning Your Portofino Wedding
If you’re dreaming of an elopement in Portofino, I would love to tell your story. Whether at Villa Durazzo, Hotel Splendido, or along the harbor at sunset, I capture weddings with artistry, elegance, and emotion.
📩 Contact me to begin planning your destination wedding photography in Portofino and beyond.