Planning a destination wedding in Southern Europe (Spain, France and Italy), is as much about the vibe as it is about budget. While Spain, France, and Italy all offer stunning backdrops—from Tuscan villas and rolling hills to Provençal châteaux and lavender fields and Spanish sun-drenched fincas—the cost structure varies in meaningful ways.
Here is an average cost break down for a middle-sized destination wedding.
THE VENUE RENTAL
The "shell" of your wedding is often your most variable expense. In Europe, many premium venues require a multi-day buyout (typically 2–3 nights) if they offer on-site accommodation.
If your guests pay for their own rooms, you can deduct that portion from your overhead. Only the "event fee" and any unrecovered room costs should count toward your final wedding budget.
Spain
Spain is the most budget-friendly option, though coastal islands command a premium.
- Mainland: Historic haciendas range from €6,000 to €12,000, depending on the area
- The Islands: Expect to start at €10,000+ per night.
- Accommodation: Rates average €200–€400 per room, per night.
- Event-only Venues: If no lodging is provided, starting rates hover around €8,000.
France
France offers a sharp contrast between the rustic countryside and the ultra-luxury coast.
- Country Chic (Loire Valley/Dordogne): Mid-range châteaux average €8,000 to €15,000 for a weekend.
- The Premium Belt (Provence/French Riviera): These are the most expensive regions in Europe, with venue fees frequently exceeding €30,000.
- Accommodation: Luxury comes at a price, with rooms averaging €450–€600 per night
- Event-only venues: Chateaux with no accommodation cost an average of €10,000 to €20,000 for a day hire.
Italy
- Villa Buyouts: A two-night stay typically starts at €15,000, scaling upward based on the region as well as the type of venue
- Accommodation: Expect to pay €350–€500 per room, per night.
- Event-only venues: In high-demand areas like Lake Como or the Amalfi Coast, venues with no accommodation often charge €20,000 to €50,000+ just for the 24-hour event window.
Take a closer look at what wedding venues really look like across the different regions of
Spain, France, and
Italy.