FAQs
Question
WHEN SHOULD I ARRIVE TO ITALY?
Answer
Your presence is requested at Castello Di Ristonchi from Friday, May 23rd, 2025 at 4pm through Monday, May 26th, 2025 at 11am. Eden and Andrew will be arriving in Florence a few days before the celebrations to begin to adjust to the time change. If you arrive early to Florence, we’d love to see you and will happily suggest some must-see sights and experiences.
Question
WHY AM I BEING ASKED TO SUBMIT A PAYMENT WITH MY RSVP?
Answer
To secure your lodging for the three nights, a payment of $400 USD per person is required. This payment should be made at the time of RSVP to confirm your room. Due to the complexities of planning a destination wedding in Europe, all lodging must be reserved by the date specified on your RSVP mailer.
Question
DO I HAVE A PLUS ONE / ARE KIDS ALLOWED?
Answer
Due to the intimate nature of our wedding, the name(s) on your invite envelope are the only guests who are included. We kindly request that nobody under the age of 18 is in attendance unless otherwise specified. If you have any questions, please reach out to Eden and Andrew.
Question
DO I NEED A EUROPEAN VISA?
Answer
As of mid-2025, US citizens traveling to most of Europe will need to apply for a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) waiver before arrival to enter Italy. ETIAS is a visa waiver system that aims to improve global safety and security. The exact launch date has not been confirmed, but the European Union website cites "mid-2025" as the official start date.
Question
HOW WILL WE GET TO AND FROM THE VILLA?
Answer
Getting to and from the villa will be difficult for any guests without a rental car (Taxi and Uber are not reliable and can be expensive). If you would like additional flexibility and choose to rent a car upon your arrival in Italy, ample parking at the villa is available. For those who will not be renting cars, we have booked a shuttle service to and from the villa for all guests. The shuttle will be picking up all guests from Santa Maria Novella Train Station in Central Florence on Friday, May 23rd at 3:00 pm. Please plan on arriving at the train station early to give yourself time to locate the shuttles. Address: Firenze Santa Maria Novella Piazza della Stazione, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy Pickup location at train station: PIAZZALE MONTELUNGO Shuttle services will also be available for our departure on Monday, May 26th at 11:00 am from Castello di Ristonchi back to Santa Maria Novella train station.
Question
WHAT SHOULD I PACK?
Answer
- Passport (IMPORTANT NOTE: Ensure it will not be expiring within 6 months of your travel date or you will not be able to depart the US) - EU adapters and converters - Ceremony attire - Clothing and footwear for the weekend - Sunscreen
Question
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
Answer
May weather in this region of Italy typically ranges from lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s. Please pack accordingly as evenings could be cool.
Question
IS RISTONCHI A 5 STAR HOTEL?
Answer
The castle is over 1000 years old and you can expect a unique, cozy, and charming stay. The furnishings are typical Tuscan style, and some bathrooms are small and quirky, but that's the fun of staying in an old castle. Typical hotel amenities such as hair dryers and air conditioning are not included.
Question
HOW WILL ROOMS BE ASSIGNED?
Answer
The towers at Ristonchi consist of many unique apartments and studios. Eden and Andrew will do their best to place family and friends in apartments with one another. Most apartments that accommodate a higher number of guests have individual rooms, beds, and bathrooms, but share a common living space.
Question
WILL THERE BE HOUSEKEEPING ON SITE?
Answer
Castello di Ristonchi is not a standard hotel, so there will not be daily room cleanings. All basics will be provided such as clean sheets, towels, pillows, blankets, toilet paper, soap and shampoo.
Question
IS THERE LAUNDRY ONSITE?
Answer
There are no laundry facilities onsite, please pack accordingly. We will set up an ironing station for anyone needing to iron their clothes during their stay.
Question
WILL THERE BE AIR CONDITIONING?
Answer
There is heating, but no air conditioning. Most places in Europe don't use air conditioning as a way to conserve energy. The thick stone walls and fresh mountain breeze should keep you comfortable, or a dip in the fresh spring water pool will definitely do the trick!
Question
WILL THERE BE WI-FI ACCESSIBILITY?
Answer
Many areas of the castle will not have access to Wi-Fi. If you anticipate needing internet or communication services while abroad, please plan accordingly and contact your phone carriers for information on the international phone plans that they offer.
Question
WILL THERE BE EXTRA SNACKS AND ALCOHOL AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE IF NEEDED?
Answer
Food and beverages will be provided at all events throughout the weekend as part of the celebration. Additionally, food and drinks are available for purchase from the shop at Ristonchi. As with any hotel, separate charges will be added to your room bill and must be paid upon checkout.
Question
WILL THERE BE OPTIONS AVAILABLE FOR DIFFERENT DIETARY RESTRICTIONS?
Answer
Yes, we will have options available for those with dietary restrictions. Please submit any dietary restrictions through the questions included on the RSVP tab so that we are able to accommodate all needs. If we do not receive this information ahead of time, your meals will be prepared as normal.
Question
IS THE TAP WATER SAFE TO DRINK AT RISTONCHI?
Answer
Ristonchi tap water is fresh spring water. Feel free to bring a refillable bottle to reduce plastic waste during your stay.
Question
WHEN IS GUEST CHECK-OUT?
Answer
Guest check-out is strictly enforced and will take place at 11am on Monday, May 26th, 2025. If you purchased any additional food and drinks from the shop at Ristonchi, those charges will be automatically added to your room and must be paid upon checkout.
Question
WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?
Answer
We encourage you to purchase international travel insurance when booking your trip. For a minimal cost, in the event of an emergency, the insurance will reimburse you for lodging and flight costs. Unfortunately, last-minute cancellations will be unable to be refunded at the Villa.