Planning a wedding that feels like a romantic getaway to Europe—without the passport? California offers a variety of venues that transport you straight to the vineyards of Tuscany, the charming French countryside, or the grandeur of a Spanish estate. From rolling hills and historic mansions to Mediterranean-inspired villas, this guide showcases the best California venues that look like Europe to help you find the perfect setting for your special day.

Hi, I’m Kelsey Layman, owner of Kelsey Layman Photography! As a passionate wedding photographer serving couples worldwide, I specialize in capturing timeless, candid moments that tell the story of your day so beautifully. If you’re dreaming of a European-inspired wedding, you’ve come to the right place.

Why Choose a European-Inspired Wedding in California?

California’s landscape offers unmatched versatility. Whether you’re looking for French elegance, Tuscan romance, or Spanish grandeur, the Golden State has venues that deliver European flair with ease. The best part? You get the luxury and style of Europe with the convenience of staying closer to home.

A Taste of Europe Without the Travel

Many of California’s venues are modeled after iconic European architecture, providing an authentic look and feel. From rustic Italian farmhouses to Provence-style chateaus, these locations offer charm and character.

Diverse Backdrops

California’s coastal cliffs, vineyards, and rolling hills create a stunning canvas for any European-inspired wedding theme.

Perfect Weather

California’s temperate climate allows for year-round weddings, making it ideal for both outdoor ceremonies and receptions.

The Best European-Inspired Wedding Venues in California

Here’s a curated list of California venues that transport you straight to Europe. Whether you’re dreaming of a vineyard, a historic estate, or a Mediterranean villa, these venues bring European elegance to your big day.

Northern California Venues

Villa Montalvo (Saratoga)

Inspiration: Italian villa
Guest Count: Up to 300
Details: This historic Mediterranean-style villa is surrounded by manicured gardens and fountains, making it ideal for elegant, timeless celebrations.
Website: Villa Montalvo

Filoli Estate (Woodside)

Inspiration: English country estate
Guest Count: Up to 250
Details: A stately mansion with manicured gardens and tranquil fountains, Filoli Estate offers a sophisticated and romantic setting.
Website: Filoli Estate

Beaulieu Garden (Rutherford)

Inspiration: French countryside
Guest Count: Up to 300
Details: With tree-lined walkways, European-style fountains, and lush gardens, this private estate feels like a secret escape in the heart of wine country.
Website: Beaulieu Garden

Domaine Carneros (Napa Valley)

Inspiration: French chateau
Guest Count: Up to 150
Details: This iconic Napa Valley winery features vineyard views, elegant symmetry, and a grand staircase for a show-stopping entrance.
Website: Domaine Carneros

Beltane Ranch (Glen Ellen)

Inspiration: Provençal estate
Guest Count: Up to 125
Details: Surrounded by lavender fields and vineyards, Beltane Ranch captures the rustic beauty of the French countryside.
Website: Beltane Ranch

Park Winters (Winters)

Inspiration: Victorian and European charm
Guest Count: Up to 200
Details: This boutique property features lush gardens, a stately mansion, and rolling farmland for a mix of European elegance and rustic charm.
Website: Park Winters

Switzer Farm (Westport)

Inspiration: European countryside estate
Guest Count: Up to 200
Details: This secluded property offers expansive coastal views, lush gardens, and vintage charm.
Website: Switzer Farm

Auberge du Soleil (Rutherford)

Inspiration: French Riviera
Guest Count: Up to 120
Details: This luxury resort blends Mediterranean charm with Napa Valley beauty, creating an intimate, romantic ambiance.
Website: Auberge du Soleil

Central California Wedding Venues

Sunstone Villa (Santa Ynez)

Inspiration: Tuscan villa
Guest Count: Up to 200
Details: Built with imported stone and authentic European architecture, Sunstone Villa offers a luxurious yet rustic vibe surrounded by vineyards.
Website: Sunstone Villa

San Ysidro Ranch (Santa Barbara)

Inspiration: Provence countryside
Guest Count: Up to 200
Details: Nestled in the hills, this venue features lavender gardens, stone cottages, and stunning mountain views.
Website: San Ysidro Ranch

Santa Ynez Ranch (Santa Ynez)

Inspiration: Spanish countryside
Guest Count: Up to 150
Details: Combining rustic charm with elegant details, Santa Ynez Ranch offers a timeless, romantic space for your wedding.
Website: Santa Ynez Ranch

Cavaignac Estate (Walnut Grove, CA)

Inspiration: French Country Estate
Details: Nestled in Walnut Grove, this elegant venue offers European-inspired architecture, sprawling farmland, and a serene atmosphere, creating a peaceful and intimate setting for your wedding.
Guest Count: Up to 200
Website: Cavaignac Estate

Entienne Estate (Pasadena, CA)

Inspiration: French Chateau
Details: Located in Pasadena, this stunning estate features classic European design, beautifully manicured gardens, and elegant architecture, making it a perfect setting for a sophisticated wedding.
Guest Count: Up to 150
Website: Entienne Estate

Jeune Perche (Fallbrook, CA)

Inspiration: French Countryside
Details: Located in the charming town of Fallbrook, this venue offers a romantic French-inspired ambiance with rustic charm, lush gardens, and intimate surroundings for a one-of-a-kind wedding experience.
Guest Count: Up to 100
Website: Jeune Perche

Southern California Wedding Venues

Quail Ranch (Simi Valley)

Inspiration: Spanish villa
Guest Count: Up to 250
Details: This serene ranch features Spanish-style architecture, gorgeous gardens, and a rustic, peaceful vibe.
Website: Quail Ranch

Greystone Manor (Beverly Hills)

Inspiration: French Chateau
Details: This historic estate combines grandeur and elegance, with its lush gardens and ornate architecture reminiscent of Europe
Guest Count: Up to 200
Website: Greystone Manor

Cielo Farms (Malibu)

Inspiration: Tuscan vineyard
Guest Count: Up to 200
Details: Perched in the Malibu hills, this venue boasts Mediterranean-style architecture and sweeping vineyard views.
Website: Cielo Farms

Cal-a-Vie Health Spa (Vista)

Inspiration: French countryside
Guest Count: Up to 120
Details: Featuring stone chapels, lavender fields, and vineyard views, this venue radiates romantic European charm.
Website: Cal-a-Vie Health Spa

Casa Blanca Interlaken (South Lake Tahoe)

Inspiration: Spanish-inspired Architecture
Details: This lakeside venue combines serene natural beauty with elegant European design for a truly unique setting.
Guest Count: Up to 150
Website: Casa Blanca Interlaken

Monserate Winery (Fallbrook)

Inspiration: Tuscan Vineyard
Details: This charming winery offers breathtaking vineyard views, Mediterranean-inspired architecture, and an intimate atmosphere for your special day.
Guest Count: Up to 150
Website: Monserate Winery

FAQ: California European-Inspired Wedding Venues

What is the average cost of a wedding at these venues?

Most high-end locations start around $20,000 for full weddings and can go up depending on guest count, catering, and additional services. However, many of these venues also offer packages for more intimate ceremonies or elopements at lower starting prices, making them versatile for different wedding sizes and budgets. Be sure to contact the venue directly to explore all available options!

When is the best time of year for a wedding in California?

Spring and fall are the most popular seasons, offering mild temperatures and vibrant, picturesque landscapes. Spring is perfect for lush greenery and blooming flowers, while fall provides warm hues and cooler evenings. That said, California’s Mediterranean climate allows for year-round weddings, so winter and summer can also work beautifully depending on the region and venue. Coastal venues are ideal for summer, while vineyard and estate settings thrive in fall.

How do I choose the right venue for my style?

Start by considering the European atmosphere you want to emulate—Tuscany’s rustic romance, Provence’s charm, or a grand Spanish villa. Then think about logistics such as guest count, budget, and preferred location (Northern, Central, or Southern California). Each region has unique offerings, from vineyards to historic estates. Finally, visit potential venues to experience their ambiance firsthand and envision your special day.

Why Choose Me as Your Wedding Photographer?

Your wedding deserves to be captured beautifully, and I specialize in documenting authentic, candid moments that reflect your unique love story. Whether you’re exchanging vows at a Tuscan-inspired villa, dancing the night away at a French chateau, or celebrating in a Spanish-style estate, I bring a seamless blend of artistry and storytelling to every event. My approach ensures that you’ll not only feel comfortable in front of the camera but also receive a gallery that truly encapsulates the magic of your wedding day.

Kelsey Layman | California + Destination Wedding Photographer

If you’re planning a wedding at one of these stunning venues, I’d love to chat about how I can capture your day! My photography services are tailored to fit your vision and ensure every detail, big or small, is beautifully preserved. From intimate elopements to grand celebrations, I’m here to document your story with timeless, candid photography. Contact me today to learn more about my wedding photography packages or to schedule a consultation. Let’s create something unforgettable together!

California Wedding Venues That Feel Like Europe: Top Picks for 2024