This is completely up to you, and dependent on how you choose to structure your trip. Most major flights from the US will land in Rome, Italy's capital. If you have extra time and are looking to make a vacation out of our wedding (which we hope you do!) we recommend flying into Rome as it will be easiest and cheapest. If you are making a quick trip in for our wedding, we recommend flying into Naples.
If you are coming to Italy just for our wedding, we are SO grateful to you for making the quick trip to celebrate with us! We would recommend you book a flight that leaves the US on Wednesday evening and lands in Italy Thursday morning. We suggest flying into Naples and arranging for a car service to take you from the airport straight to Positano. That way you have plenty of time to settle into Positano and attend our welcome party Thursday evening. Our wedding is Friday night, so Saturday you can relax, and then fly back home on Sunday. This way, you will only have to take off two days from work but can still enjoy the weekend in Italy!
We have opted not to have a hotel room block. We want our guests to curate an experience that works best for them, and not feel obligated to spend money on a hotel if they'd rather stay in an Airbnb. There are many hotels, Airbnbs, and bed and breakfast options in Positano so you can choose an accommodation at a price point that works for you. We have a list of suggestions on the Travel page of our website.
Again, this is completely up to you! Hotels can be helpful as they typically provide airport transfers and concierge services to help you with your trip. However, they can be pricier in Positano. We personally LOVE staying in Airbnbs. You can find gorgeous villas for a great price, and the hosts in Italy love catering to their guests and providing personalized experiences and recommendations. We highly recommend thoroughly reading the reviews before booking.
We will provide more details closer to the wedding, but our wedding venue is only accessible by foot. Staff from Villa Oliviero will meet guests at a central location and walk them to the entrance (less than 10 minutes). We cannot stress enough how important it will be to wear comfortable shoes!
No. If you choose to rent a car to drive throughout Italy, we recommend ditching it before you get to Positano. Parking can be expensive and sparse along the Amalfi Coast, and once you are in Positano there is no need for a car. If you choose to keep a car, be sure to check with your hotel or Airbnb to see if they provide parking, as the main parking lots in Positano are expensive.
Have NO fear! You will be able to find basic English speakers anywhere you go in Italy. We recommend downloading the Google Translate app on your phone, and pre-downloading the entire Italian language. This is the most accurate translator, and you can even learn pronunciation on the go and translate pictures of signs and menus. If you can master “Hello” “Goodbye” and “Thank You,” a little goes a long way.
Bellissimo! In Italy (especially along the coast), summer runs through October. Average temperature during the day is about 80 degrees, and it will cool down to about 65-70 degrees at night. You will absolutely be able to enjoy a day on the water or at the beach. Italy weather is often comparable to California weather as there is no humidity and it is perfectly cool at night.
Italy is one of the fashion capitals of the world...so don't be shy! We'd love to see our friends and family get dressed up for a formal evening together. Please keep in mind that there are many, many stairs at our venue, so comfortable shoes are important. Or bring a pair to change into!
In Italy (and Europe in general) everyone moves slowly. That means they eat slow as well. You will have the opposite dining experience as you do in the US. The waiters will leave you alone to eat for hours, and you’ll most likely have to beg for your check. This is because Italians love to enjoy food slowly among the company of their friends and family, but a lot of American travelers mistake this for rude service. This way of dining is incredibly relaxing, but it can make tourists feel uncomfortable because they are so used to always being quick and on the go. Sit back, relax, and enjoy all the food Italy has to offer!
This is our #1 tip when enjoying gelato in Italy: avoid the piles! If you see gelato that is piled high like mountains (you'll know it when you see it), do not order. These gelato places are tourist traps and the gelato is not authentic.
Our wedding weekend is adults-only. We appreciate you making arrangements ahead of time so you can celebrate with us.
Unfortunately, we are not giving out plus ones. Given the nature of our wedding, we are working hard to keep it an intimate event. It will be clearly noted on your invitation who is invited.