FAQs
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Travel and Transportation
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WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT TO ITALY? We recommend booking flights at least 6–9 months in advance to secure the best rates and availability, especially given the popularity of September travel in Italy. WHAT AIRPORT SHOULD I FLY INTO? The nearest major airport is Rome Fiumicino International Airport (FCO), approximately 2.5 hours from Assisi by car or train. Other options include Florence (FLR) or Perugia (PEG), which is the closest regional airport—about 20 minutes away. WILL TRANSPORTATION BE PROVIDED FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE VENUE? We are exploring group transportation options from Rome or Perugia and will provide an update closer to the date. You can contact our dedicated concierge concierge@castellopetrata.com for any private transfer requests. IS A RENTAL CAR NECESSARY OR IS PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SUFFICIENT? Public transportation (trains and taxis) are reliable, but renting a car offers more flexibility, especially for exploring the Umbrian countryside. The venue is rural, so a car may be useful depending on where you’re staying. ARE THERE ANY RECOMMENDED TRAVEL DAYS OR GROUP TRAVEL OPTIONS? We recommend arriving by Sunday, September 6 to give yourself time to relax and adjust. Group travel details will be shared if coordinated shuttles or shared bookings are arranged. DO I NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL TO ITALY? U.S., Canadian, UK, and most EU citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Please check your country’s specific entry requirements for travel to Italy.
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Accommodations
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WHERE SHOULD I STAY FOR THE WEDDING? We will recommend accommodations at the Castello (wedding venue), nearby estate properties, and hotels or guesthouses in the town of Assisi in your formal invitation. WILL THERE BE A HOTEL BLOCK OR RECOMMENDED PROPERTIES? Yes, we will share formal accommodation details, including booking information, in the coming months. IS THE WEDDING VENUE ALSO OFFERING GUEST LODGING? Yes, the Castello has limited guest accommodations on site. We will indicate how to reserve these rooms in our formal invitation. HOW FAR IS THE VENUE FROM THE TOWN CETNER OR OTHER ACCOMMODATIONS? The Castello is approximately 15–20 minutes by car from the center of Assisi. SHOULD I BOOK ADDITIONAL NIGHTS IF I WANT TO EXPLOER THE AREA? Absolutely! Assisi and the surrounding Umbrian region are rich with history, vineyards, and beautiful landscapes. Consider extending your stay to enjoy more of Italy.
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Wedding Events and Schedule
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WHAT IS THE WEDDING DAY SCHEDULE? The wedding will take place on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. A full itinerary including ceremony and reception times will be shared closer to the date. ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL EVENTS (WELCOME DINNER, BRUNCH, EXCURSIONS)? Yes! We are planning a Rehearsal Dinner on Monday, September 7, and a farewell brunch on Wednesday, September 9. Details to come. IS ATTENDANCE REQUIRED FOR ALL EVENTS OR JUST THE WEDDING? You’re warmly invited to all wedding events, but your presence on the wedding day is what matters most! Please let Angela Ray know as soon as possible if you cannot make the rehearsal dinner. WILL THERE BE FREE TIME TO EXPLORE? Yes, we’ve intentionally built in downtime for you to relax or explore Assisi and the countryside.
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Dress Code and Attire
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WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE FOR THE WEDDING? The wedding will be formal garden attire. We suggest black tie for the gentlemen and dresses appropriate for an elegant outdoor setting. WHAT SHOULD I WEAR FOR THE OTHER EVENTS? • Rehearsal Dinner: Casual elegant • Farewell Brunch: Relaxed, resort wear Details will be provided with each event. ARE THERE ANY CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ATTIRE IN ITALY OR AT THE VENUE (E.G., CHURCHES)? If you plan to visit local churches or basilicas, shoulders and knees should be covered out of respect. The wedding itself will not require religious attire. WILL THE CEREMONY BE INDOORS OR OUTDOORS? Weather permitting, the ceremony will be held outdoors on the Castello grounds. Please note that the actual ceremony will be held in the grass, so stilettos or pointy heels may be difficult to walk in. SHOULD I BRING COMFORTABLE SHOES FOR THE COBBLESTONE STREETS OR COUNTRYSIDE TERRAIN? Yes, cobblestone streets and uneven paths are common in Italy—especially in hill towns like Assisi. Consider block heels, wedges, or dressy flats.
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Wedding Specifics
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WILL THE CEREMONY BE IN ENGLISH OR ITALIAN? The ceremony will be conducted in English, with possibly a few Italian touches for charm. WILL TRANSPORTATION BE PROVIDED ON THE DAY OF THE WEDDING? Yes, transportation between Assisi accommodations and the venue will be arranged for the day of the wedding. CAN I BRING A PLUS-ONE? Your formal invitation will specify whether you are invited with a guest. ARE CHILDREN WELCOME AT THE WEDDING? This will be an adult-only celebration. We appreciate your understanding as we create a relaxing, elegant experience for all guests. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE DIETARY RESTRICTIONS OR FOOD ALLERGIES? Please let us know on your RSVP card or form. The caterers can accommodate most dietary needs with advance notice. WHAT IS THE RSVP DEADLINE? We kindly ask for your RSVP by August 1, 2025. This will help us finalize accommodations and event planning.
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Local Culture and Practices
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DO I NEED TO SPEAK ITALIAN TO GET AROUND? While Italian is the local language, most people in hotels and tourist areas speak English. Learning a few phrases is appreciated and fun! ARE THERE LOCAL CUSTOMS OR ETIQUETTE I SHOULD BE AWARE OF? Italians value politeness—greet shopkeepers, say “buongiorno,” and expect longer, more relaxed dining experiences. Enjoy the slower pace! WHAT CURRENCY IS USED IN ITALY, AND ARE CREDIT CARDS WIDELY ACCEPTED? Italy uses the euro (€). Credit cards are accepted widely, but small restaurants and shops may prefer cash, so having euros on hand is a good idea. WHAT IS THE TIPPING CULTURE? Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated. Rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros is customary at restaurants. IS THE TAP WATER SAFE TO DRINK? Yes, tap water in Italy is safe and often very good. Bring a refillable bottle! WHAT'S THE WEATHER LIKE DURING THE WEDDING DATES? September in Umbria is typically mild and sunny, with daytime highs around 75–80°F (24–27°C) and cooler evenings. A light jacket or wrap is recommended.