Introduction to Destination Elopement in Europe
If you’ve always dreamed of running way to Italy or France for a European Destination Elopement, you aren’t alone. Over 90% of millennials in the United States say they have considered eloping instead of throwing a massive wedding. As wedding costs rise, destination elopements are become more popular. You can save money while still having an incredible experience. What’s better than a vacation and a wedding all in one? Weddings in the United States average $45,000. However, you can plan a destination elopement in Europe for $5-20,000. This guide covers how to legally get married in Europe (yes, you can!), how to plan your elopement timeline, picking your destination elopement vendors, and more.
The Best European Elopement Locations According to a Photographer
As a destination elopement photographer, I’ve photographed weddings and elopements in over 20 countries. The options are endless! From the iconic European Alps, stunning Roman architecture you can find all over Europe, the magical Mediterranean sea, historic castles, you have so many options. Whether you’re a foodie or a history buff, you can have it all in Europe.
Researching Destination European Wedding Venues
The top things to consider when choosing a destination European elopement venue are:
- Does the venue offer lodging on site? And how many does it include?
- Is there a designated ceremony space or can you get married off site?
- Can your guests pay for their own portion of lodging or is the couple required to cover the entire cost?
- Will the venue let you use the venue all day and all night, or is there a limited time block?
- What are the restrictions for noise? Does the wedding venue allow you to bring in your own DJ or live music?
- Can you bring in your own caterer and bar or is it required to hire their preferred vendors?
- What is the cancellation policy in case plans change?
The Cheapest Countries to Elope in Europe:
- Croatia: Located on the Mediterranean sea, the crystal blue waters and stunning beaches are similar to the South of France and Italy but a fraction the cost. The mediaeval architecture is also incredible. From castles to old cathedrals, Croatia isn’t lacking in its architecture. Also, lodging is more affordable in Croatia than many popular beach locations in Europe.
- Portugal: Lisbon gained popularity by making lots of travel lists since 2013. It’s worthy of all the hype and more! The Pousada Palacia, or Palace Hotel, in the Algarve region of Portugal costs $136 per night for your guests. It features Rocco French inspired stunning gardens, old world tile, and views of the ocean.
- Slovenia: Lake Bled is one of the most stunning places I have ever been to. The quaint cobblestone streets in the cozy mountain towns are gorgeous. The country is covered in castles and mountains! Lake Bled is reminiscent of Lake Como and the Fairmont in Banff Canada. The emerald lake offers insane views of the surrounding mountains and the castle located on the lone island in the middle of the lake is so unique. I recommend the Grand Hotel or the Grad Otocec castle.
- Hungary: Buda Castle is by far one of the most picturesque castles I’ve ever seen. This stunning castle on top of a hill overlooking Budapest is an architectural hidden gem in Europe. Fisherman’s Bastion (Halaszbastya) is also one of a kind and a perfect location for a castle elopement. Budapest is known for its amazing mineral spas and baths. It’s also incredibly affordable and has a rich diversity of people living there. It’s a small and accessible city, making it a perfect spot for a low key elopement.
- Estonia: Cheaper than its Scandinavian neighbors Finland and Sweden, Estonia might be lesser known on travel blogs. However, it should be! Estonia is every bit as beautiful. Old Town Tallinn feels like walking through a European storybook. It’s on the UNESCO World Heritage List for its stunning medieval castles and architecture. 50% of Estonia’s territory contains dense forests! It’s filled with waterfalls, lakes, and even coastal islands.
- Albania: The Albanian coastline feels like you’re on a Greecian island. With a similar climate to Greece and located on the Mediterranean, Albania really belongs on any world travelers bucket list. The Royal Hill Hotel along the coast features historic Roman columns right on the beach. The Greecian feel comes at just $48/night at this stunning hotel and offers wedding packages for you and your guests.
- The Balearic Islands in Spain are relatively unknown but they shouldn’t be! The Hacienda Naxamena is a 5 star resort that offers all inclusive elopement and wedding packages located on the cliffs at the edge of the sea. The views are impossible to beat. Spain has some of the best food in all of Europe and its rich culture will provide an incredible experience for your guests.
- Cyprus: Located between Greece and Turkey, this incredible island right in the middle of the Mediterranean is a perfect place to elope. Cyprus is also famous for its wine and ancient archeological sites. Cape Greco is a famous rocky peninsula in Cyprus famous for its turquoise seas, rocky terrain, and natural bridges. This historic home was turned into a wedding venue and is perfect for 20-70 guests. It’s located in the wine countryside of Cyprus and features traditional stone architecture and medieval walls. The intimate setting is so romantic and elopement packages begin at $4,000 for all 8 guest rooms, breakfast, full use of the venue, and more. The Anassa Hotel and Liopetro are also amazing Albania Wedding Venues located on the coast.
- Prague, Czech: Prague is easily one of my favorite cities in the entire world. Walking through the historic city feels like you are in a movie. I am a gothic architecture lover and Prague is full of gothic castles, bridges, and architecture. If you’ve been to Prague, you also know that you can get a pint of pilsner for a few dollars and luxury 5 star hotels start under $200. Eloping on the stunning Vrtbovska steps is also completely free! The stunning palace gardens have panoramic views of the river, winding cobblestone streets, and multiple turrets on the many castles. The Lobkowicz Palace also offers intimate wedding packages.
- Poland: Poland isn’t what comes to mind when most people plan vacations or weddings in Europe, but Warsaw, Poland is one of the most affordable places to visit in Europe. It’s full of modern art, rich food, and a vibrant music scene. And if you didn’t know that they have the largest castle in Europe, they do! The stunning city features modern skyscrapers mixed with old town multicolored historic districts. This amazing Poland wedding venue starts at only $4000.
Best Locations to Elope in The Alps
- The Dolomites in Italy. This incredible region of Italy is absolutely unparalleled in beauty. The dramatic jagged mountain peaks will take your breath away! And if you love small mountain towns, The Dolomites are full of them. The Dolomites are home to the most beautiful lake in Europe, Lago Di Braies. Prosels Castle is a perfect Dolomites Italy Wedding Venue. And if a private traditional chalet is up your alley, this one is perfect.
- Chamonix France: I was lucky enough to visit Chamonix in the spring of 2018. This stunning mountain town boasts world class skiing and incredible cuisine. It’s the perfect location for a European destination elopement year round. Chamonix offers incredible hiking in the summer and some of the best skiing worldwide in the winter. Le Chalet Mont Blanc is a luxury resort with views of the Alps from every hotel bedroom. Check out this resource page about planning your Chamonix France Wedding.
- Grindelwald Switzerland: The Swiss Alps are famous for good reason! Riding a Swiss train is an experience everyone should experience. If you’ve dreamed of eloping on a glacier or hiking to the top of a mountain, Switzerland is the perfect place to elope. And if you want to ride a cablecar to the top of a mountain over 11,000 feet high in the alps, this would be the perfect spot for an Europe Destination elopement ceremony.
Luxury Locations to Plan Your Europe Destination Elopement
- Lake Como: It’s no secret that tons of celebrities get married in Lake Como. Its beauty and history is immense. However, it’s also the perfect place to plan your Europe Destination Elopement. You’ll have your pick of wedding vendors and luxury boutique hotels to stay on your wedding night. Villa Regina is an intimate Lake Como wedding venue located in a quiet Como town called Laglio. For the ultimate luxury experience, the Villa Balbiano, Villa D’Este, Villa Erba, and Grand Hotel Tremezzo are all amazing Italy wedding venues.
- Santorini Greece: I don’t know anyone who doesn’t have Greece on their dream bucket list.
- France: Wine lovers flock to France in the summer to enjoy its famous wine. It’s also an incredible location to elope in a historic chateau! The French countryside is unparalleled in its luxury and beauty. The Chateau Canet is a perfect French intimate wedding venue with accommodations for up to 40 guests. Located on a private vineyard, this wedding venue requires you to book it for 3 nights minimum. This amazing resource guide has a full list of France Castle Wedding Venues! And this stunning castle in the South of France is hard to beat.
- Sicily, Italy: It’s hard to pick a location on this list that is my favorite, but this incredible venue is near the top of my list. Sicily has a special, otherworldly quality to it. If you’re looking for an elopement location that transports your mind, spirit, and body to a new world, Sicily has that impact. The tradition and rituals of old world Sicily are still alive in Sicily Italy. Time moves slower there, I’m convinced. And if you are a huge foodie, the food here is some of the freshest in the world. Sipping an aperol spritz on the beach is the ultimate way to celebrate your wedding. This private venue has its own private beach and the Sicily Italy Wedding venue allows you to party under its rocky cave all night long. The stunning hotel rooms have an air of quiet luxury your guests will love and views of the ocean.
Adventure Locations for your Europe Destination Elopement
- Isle of Skye: I wrote an amazing guide to eloping at the Isle of Skye here. This remote destination is hard to get to, but worth every minute. The landscapes are dramatic and completely stole my heart the first time I visited. Scotland has many old fairytales and folklore about the stunning landscapes here and it feels magical just taking a walk along the many glens. Also, Scottish people are the best hosts and might be the kindest people in the world. Finishing your elopement day at a pub surrounded by local Scottish residents playing traditional Scottish music would be a dream.
- Iceland: Everyone knows Iceland is full of beauty. It’s one of the cleanest countries in the entire world! I’ve been to Iceland 4 times now and it always surprises me how easy it is to escape crowds to find remote locations. Yes, it’s true that there are busloads of tourists at all the popular tourist spots. However, with a little work, it’s easy to enjoy a whole waterfall or beach or cliffside by yourselves. It’s the perfect place to elope. And if a volcano elopement sounds appealing, I shot a wedding on an Icelandic volcano in 2021!
- Norway: Norway encompasses what adventure elopements are made of. Norway’s landscape contains fjords, lakes, rivers, glaciers, mountains, and more. Cozy cabins and unique Scandinavian architecture also set Norway apart as an epic spot for a destination elopement. Check out this unique glass treehouse in Norway.
- Austria: Halstatt is by far one of the most gorgeous mountain towns I’ve ever visited. Austria’s Bavarian Alps stand apart is some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes I’ve ever photographed. The views are INSANE just from the roads that careen between the alps- let alone on a trail. If you don’t believe me, Rachael and Stetson’s Austrian Alps engagement session remains one of my favorite shoots.
Legal Requirements of Getting Married in Europe
It might seem intimidating, but if you want to make your marriage legal in Europe, it’s not too difficult! In most European countries, you need 1. a valid passport 2. your birth certificate 3. proof of residency 4. your declaration of intention to marry obtained from the town hall Marriage Office where you choose to get married 5. evidence of termination from any previous marriage. There are certain additional requirements in some countries, like France or Spain. Denmark and Iceland are two of the easiest European countries to get legally married!
However, it is recommended by most wedding planners that you first get married legally in your home state in the United States before you arrive in Europe.
Planning Your Ceremony and Celebration
Hiring Vendors and Securing Services
First, I highly recommend reaching out to destination elopement planners. My top recommendations include Greatest Adventure Wed, Jet Set Wed, Adventure Wedding, Calluna Events. Navigating logistics on an elopement day in your home country can be stressful, let alone when you’re thousands of miles from home. An elopement planner will help you with any planning details you need help with including finding flights, creating travel itineraries, booking hotels, securing taxis & transportation, communicating with all your vendors ahead of your elopement, etc. Also, they have valuable insight from years of experience and connections with vendors across Europe!
If you’re looking for a destination elopement photographer, you can email me here.
I recommend that when you’re searching for florists, caterers, bartenders, rentals, etc. that you search locally in the location where you are eloping. Also, please keep in mind that European customer service differs greatly from American customer service. It’s fairly common for European wedding vendors to take weeks to return an email or a call.
Creating an Elopement Timeline
How you plan on your elopement timeline is going to depend on the time of year you’re getting married, your preferences, and location. Typically, I recommend looking up the exact time it will be sunset in the location where you’re getting married. As a photographer, I always recommend setting aside 30 minutes or so for sunset photos in an amazing location. Depending on the time of year, sunset could be at 5:30pm or 9:30pm!
Here’s a typical 6 hour elopement timeline:
2pm: Getting Ready Photos of Partner 1
2:45pm: Getting Ready Photos of Partner 2
3:30pm: First Look photos
4:15pm: Wedding Ceremony
4:45pm: Group portraits with any guests, family, or friends
5pm: dinner or celebration
7-8pm: sunset portraits
Keep in mind, it doesn’t have to go this way. There are couples who prefer their wedding ceremony happens around sunset and shoot their couple portraits earlier in the day. Also, some people choose to have a sunrise ceremony to get the best light and enjoy their entire day. The best part about eloping is that you can do anything you want! Also, some couples skip dinner all together until after all their portraits are finished! You can do anything that feels like “you”!
A 12 hour all day elopement timeline:
10am: Write vows, share breakfast and coffee, relax. This is a great opportunity to take some casual photos around your hotel or Airbnb. I recommend thinking about how you want to enjoy your wedding morning. Some couples drink coffee in bed, write their vows in a cafe, or go for a hot springs swim.
12pm: Begin Hair & Makeup.
12:30pm: Photographer captures detail photos of dress, suit, shoes, flowers, etc.
1:30pm: Partner #1 getting ready photos
2:00pm: Partner #2 getting ready photos
2:30pm: First Look
3-4pm: Take portraits in an adventurous location or hike to a beautiful spot
4:30pm: Ceremony
5pm: Guest portraits with friends and family.
5:30pm: Leave for a second location to take portraits.
6pm-8pm: Portraits at ‘sunset’ in an epic location.
8pm-10pm: Photos of “Dinner” or reception celebration with guests.
Choosing a Destination Elopement Photographer
A lot of couples ask me why elopement photographers charge as much if not more for their services than a wedding photographer. I completely understand where this question is coming from. Since it’s fewer guests and a shorter day, it may seem as though an elopement is cheaper! However, experienced destination elopement photographers also include extra services a wedding photographer may not. Elopement photographers spend hours scouting for their clients to find the best locations for your elopement ceremony and portraits.
Many elopement photographers will also take on the job of a wedding planner by assisting you in creating a wedding day timeline. Also, elopement photographers will refer you to elopement vendors as well! Also, it is important to note that elopement photographers should have lots of experience traveling. From working in different time zones, adapting to another language or country, navigating foreign maps, and more- it is difficult to travel. Elopement photographers have more responsibility than a typical photographer on a wedding day 🙂
