Good to know
Questions
The things we are asked most. If your question isn't here, write to us — we answer everything.
Before you travel
What airport should I fly into?
Florence (FLR) is closest — about 1 hour 45 minutes by car. Rome Fiumicino (FCO) is around 2 hours 30 minutes but usually has better long-haul fares from Houston and Lagos. We are running transfers from both on Tuesday; add your flight details on your Travel page and we will place you on one.
Do I need a visa?
Italy is in the Schengen Area. US and UK passport holders do not need a visa for short stays. Nigerian passport holders do — please start that application early, as appointments in Lagos and Abuja book up months ahead. Tell us if you need a formal invitation letter and we will send one immediately.
When should I arrive?
Ideally Tuesday morning or early afternoon, so you are settled before the Welcome Dinner at 5:00 PM. If you can only make Wednesday, the ceremony is at 4:00 PM and you will not miss the main event.
Can I extend my stay?
Please do — most people are staying a week. Rooms on the estate are only held for the wedding nights, but Pienza and Montepulciano are full of beautiful places, and we are happy to point you at our favourites.
The weekend
What time should I arrive for the ceremony?
Be seated by 3:45 PM. The ceremony starts at 4:00 PM in the olive grove and will not wait — Italian weddings start late, ours will not.
Will the wedding be outdoors?
Yes. Ceremony in the olive grove, cocktails in the lemon courtyard, dinner in the main courtyard under the lights. There is a covered loggia if the weather turns, but May in Tuscany is usually kind.
Can I bring my children?
Children are very welcome at the Welcome Dinner and throughout the wedding day, and there is a children's menu at both. The evening runs late, so if you would like us to arrange a sitter at the villa, just ask.
Can I bring a plus one?
Your invitation shows exactly who is included, and your RSVP page lists everyone we are expecting from your household. If you think we have made a mistake, please tell us — we would rather fix it than have you wondering.
Getting around
Will transportation be provided?
Yes. Shuttles run from the Pienza hotels to every evening event and back again. Airport transfers on Tuesday, and departures on Thursday, are arranged too. Your personal shuttle times appear on your Travel page once we have your flights.
Should I hire a car?
You do not need one for the wedding itself. But if you are staying on either side, a car turns this region from lovely into extraordinary. Book it before you fly — May is high season and the airport desks run out.
Where you are staying
Where should I stay?
If we have offered you a room on the estate, it is already held in your name and you will see it on your Stay page. Everyone else: we have listed the hotels we know and trust in Pienza and Montepulciano, all within twenty minutes of the villa and all on the shuttle route.
Is breakfast included?
For guests on the estate, yes — served on the pool terrace from 8:00 AM until late, because we know how the nights are going to go. Hotel guests should check with their property.
Practical things
What is the weather like in May?
Warm days around 22–25°C (72–77°F) and cool evenings that can drop to 12°C (54°F). Bring something for your shoulders after dark, and sunscreen for the afternoons.
What about gifts?
You are crossing an ocean to be there. That is the gift. If you would still like to give something, there is a short registry on this site.
Still not sure about something? Write to us — we would much rather you asked.
hello@princessanddonnel.com