Spain Vs Italy: Where is it cheaper to get married?

A wedding in Spain starts out as a beautiful idea, but to transform into a reality, requires logistics; planning and budgeting. Couples often deliberate over the ideal location for their nuptials, considering factors such as cost, ambiance, and convenience. In recent years, Spain and Italy have emerged as sought-after destinations for couples seeking a romantic and memorable wedding experience. But when it comes to stretching your budget without compromising on the magic, does Spain steal the spotlight over Italy? Let’s delve into the nuances of tying the knot in these Mediterranean paradises.

Why is it better to marry in Spain?

Spain, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, beckons couples with promises of a dreamy wedding affair at a fraction of the cost compared to other European destinations. Here’s why Spain stands out as an enticing option for budget-conscious lovebirds:

Affordable wedding venues

Spain boasts an array of breathtaking venues, from historic castles to rustic vineyards and sun-kissed beaches. What’s more enticing is the affordability of these venues compared to their counterparts in other European countries. According to a report by WeddingWire, the average cost of a wedding venue in Spain is approximately €4,000 to €8,000, significantly lower than the European average of €8,000 to €14,000.

What is the exchange rate like?

For couples coming from countries with stronger currencies such as the US dollar or the British pound, Spain offers favorable exchange rates, allowing them to maximize their wedding budget and indulge in luxury without breaking the bank. Currently, the pound to euro exchange rate (GBP/EUR) is 1.17108 (0%), and the pound to dollar exchange rate (GBP/USD) is 1.27514 (+0.05%).

Mediterranean climate

One of Spain’s biggest draws is its delightful Mediterranean climate, characterized by sunny days and balmy evenings, making it an ideal setting for outdoor weddings. The abundance of sunshine ensures a picturesque backdrop for ceremonies and receptions alike, enhancing the overall ambiance of the celebration. The Costa del Sol’s literal translation in English is: the sunshine coast… and it’s pretty easy to understand how it got its name. The region sees over 325 days of sunshine every year, and in winter, is the sunniest corner of Europe. While the rest of the continent is plagued with cooler temperatures and greyer skies, the Costa del Sol shines just as it does in summer, but with obviously cooler days and even cooler nights. But sunshine is always a terrific starting point to enjoy a relaxed day without any weather drama and getting that perfect photo album with sensational golden light.

English-speaking communities

Communication is key, especially when planning a destination wedding. In Spain, particularly in popular tourist regions like Barcelona, Madrid, and the Costa del Sol, English-speaking communities and vendors are plentiful, easing the language barrier for couples and ensuring smooth coordination throughout the planning process.

Wedding in Spain: Cost of living on Costa del Sol vs. Amalfi Coast

In addition to wedding expenses, couples often consider the overall cost of living when choosing a destination for their special day. Spain, particularly in regions like the Costa del Sol, offers a relatively lower cost of living compared to Italy. This means that not only are wedding expenses more affordable in Spain, but couples and their guests can also enjoy a more budget-friendly experience during their stay.

When comparing the Costa del Sol to the famed Amalfi Coast in Italy, both destinations offer stunning coastal vistas and charming seaside towns, but at different price points. While the Amalfi Coast is renowned for its luxury resorts, upscale dining options, and exclusive atmosphere, it comes with a higher price tag. On the other hand, the Costa del Sol boasts equally beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions, but at a more accessible price point. Couples looking to maximize their wedding budget without sacrificing the beauty of a coastal setting may find the Costa del Sol to be the perfect compromise between affordability and luxury.

Wedding in Spain: How it compares to Italy

Now that we’ve explored the allure of Spain for weddings, let’s compare its offerings with those of its Mediterranean counterpart, Italy:

Cost disparities

While both Spain and Italy offer enchanting wedding settings, Italy tends to be slightly more expensive than Spain, especially in popular tourist hubs like Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, and Lake Como. According to a study by The Knot, the average cost of a wedding in Italy can range from €20,000 to €35,000, reflecting the higher expenses associated with venues, catering, and other wedding essentials compared to Spain.

Climate considerations

Italy’s diverse geography means that couples have a plethora of options, from the romantic vineyards of Tuscany to the sun-drenched shores of the Amalfi Coast. However, Italy’s climate can vary significantly depending on the region and the time of year, with summers often being hot and crowded, while winters may bring chilly temperatures and sparse crowds. In contrast, Spain’s Mediterranean climate offers more consistency, with mild winters and hot summers, providing couples with a greater assurance of favorable weather conditions for their big day.

English proficiency

While Italy is renowned for its cultural heritage and culinary delights, English proficiency among vendors and locals may vary, particularly in rural areas or smaller towns. Couples planning a wedding in Italy may encounter challenges in communication, requiring them to work with interpreters or rely on bilingual wedding planners. On the other hand, Spain’s thriving tourism industry has led to widespread English proficiency, making it easier for couples to navigate the wedding planning process with minimal language barriers.

In the eternal quest for the perfect wedding destination, Spain emerges as a compelling choice for couples seeking affordability, romance, and convenience. With its diverse landscapes, favorable exchange rates, and welcoming atmosphere, Spain offers an enchanting backdrop for couples to exchange vows and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. While Italy exudes its own brand of allure with its timeless charm and iconic landmarks, the allure of Spain shines bright for couples looking to make the most of their wedding budget without compromising on style or sophistication. So, whether you say “Sí” in Spain or “Sì” in Italy, may your wedding day be filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments amidst the beauty of the Mediterranean.

For over twenty years we at Sunshine Weddings Spain have specialised in finding your perfect wedding venue, alongside planning every last detail of our couples’ special day. As you can see, we are spoiled for choice in Spain, with the vast array of wedding venues, and the range of traditional ones such as fincas, haciendas and villas. Our dedicated planners are always on-hand to guide, advise, support and help you make the most important day of their life truly unforgettable.

‘Why do I need a wedding planner?’ is a question we get asked a lot. Why, when we all have online access to suppliers and venues worldwide, is a wedding planner so important? Take a look at our short Q&A and discover the advantages of having one of our team assist you with your destination wedding in locations including Malaga and Mallorca.