Planning a destination wedding in Europe? You’re definitely not alone, and for good reason. From coastal views in Greece to romantic villas in Italy, Europe is home to some of the most breathtaking wedding venues in the world. I’m Kylie! As a destination wedding photographer, I’ve seen how much the location shapes the experience, not just how your wedding looks, but how it feels. If you’re trying to choose between the best places to get married in Europe, this guide breaks it down in a way that’s helpful with links so you can view each place too!
I’m sharing some of my favorite European wedding destinations, along with venue ideas, the best times of year, and real tips I give my couples when they’re planning. And if you’re dreaming about one of these locations, just know I’m already ready to pack my bags and come with you to capture your love in the most beautiful spot!
1. Greece Wedding Venues some of the Best Places to Get Married in Europe
There’s something about Greece that just feels like a dream. The light, the ocean, the architecture. It’s effortlessly romantic and one of the most iconic destination wedding locations in Europe. With its whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and dramatic views, it’s one of the most sought-after wedding destinations in Europe.
Venue ideas:
Le Ciel Santorini – iconic cliffside ceremony views
Blue Palace Elounda – a more private, luxury coastal feel
What it’s like to get married in Greece:
Greece is perfect if you want bright, coastal wedding photos and that classic European island feel.
Best time to get married in Greece:
Late April to early June or September to October
My tip:
Try to avoid peak summer if you can, less crowds = a much better experience!
Requirements for Getting Married in Greece
In Greece, getting legally married is absolutely possible, you’ll just want to plan a little ahead. Most couples need passports, birth certificates, and a certificate of no impediment, and those documents are usually translated and officially certified. You’ll also want to arrive a few days early to finalize everything locally. You also need 2 witnesses. A lot of couples choose to do the legal paperwork at home and have a symbolic ceremony in Greece, just to keep things extra simple, but either option works beautifully.
2. Italy Wedding Venues
Italy is one of the most popular destination wedding locations in Europe, and it truly has everything, lakes, coastline, countryside, and history.
Venue ideas:
Villa del Balbianello – stunning lakefront villa
Villa Cimbrone – cliffside garden views
Borgo Santo Pietro – dreamy countryside estate
What it’s like to get married here:
Italy feels timeless and romantic in a very effortless way. It’s perfect if you want your wedding to feel like an experience, not just a day.
Best time to get married in Italy:
May to June or September
My tip:
Build in extra time for everything, meals, photos, etc. Italy is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed.
Requirements for Getting Married in Italy
Italy is one of the most popular places for destination weddings, and while there are a few steps involved, it’s a very familiar process for planners and venues. Couples typically need a Nulla Osta (which confirms you’re free to marry), along with passports and birth certificates, and there’s a local town hall step as part of it. You also need at least 2 witnesses. It might sound like a lot at first, but this is something local planners handle all the time, so you won’t be navigating it on your own.
3. France Wedding Venues
France is soft, romantic, and perfect for couples who want a refined, elevated wedding experience.
Venue ideas:
Château de Tourreau – classic countryside elegance
Shangri-La Paris – iconic city views
What it’s like to get married here:
France gives you that balance of countryside charm and iconic city romance, depending on your vision.
Best time to get married in France:
May to June or September
My tip:
If you’re dreaming of lavender fields, timing matters so much, aim for late June to July.
Requirements for Getting Married in France
For France, most destination couples take a slightly different approach. There’s usually a residency requirement for legal marriages, so many couples choose to complete the legal part at home and then have their full wedding celebration in France instead. This is extremely common and allows you to focus fully on the experience without worrying about extra logistics.
4. Ireland Wedding Venues, Some of the Best Places to Get Married in Europe
If you love moody, cinematic landscapes, Ireland is honestly magical.
Venue ideas:
Ashford Castle – full fairytale experience
Dromoland Castle – historic and elegant
Ballynahinch Castle – peaceful countryside setting
What it’s like to get married here:
It’s intimate, emotional, and feels straight out of a film.
Best time to get married in Ireland:
May to September
My tip:
Embrace the weather, it’s part of the charm, and it photographs beautifully.
Requirements for Getting Married in Ireland
Ireland is actually one of the easiest places in Europe to get legally married, which is a big reason couples love it. You’ll just need to give a few months’ notice, submit your documents, and attend a quick in-person meeting before the wedding and 2 witnesses. Overall, the process is very straightforward, making it a great option if you want your destination wedding to also be legally official without much stress.
5. Spain Wedding Venues
If you want a wedding that feels fun, vibrant, and full of life, Spain is such an incredible option.
Venue ideas:
Son Marroig – iconic oceanfront ceremony views
Hacienda de San Rafael – romantic countryside estate with a private feel
What it’s like to get married here:
It’s warm, celebratory, and honestly just feels like one big experience. Think long dinners, music, and a really relaxed but elevated atmosphere.
Best time to get married in Spain:
May to June or September to October
My tip:
Plan for a later ceremony time, especially in summer. The heat can be intense, but the golden hour light is unreal and so worth it.
Requirements for Getting Married in Spain, some of the Best Places to Get Married in Europe
With Spain, the process can vary a bit depending on the region, but couples have great options. Some choose to go the legal route locally, while many opt for a symbolic ceremony, which gives you more flexibility and keeps planning simple. Spain is one of those places where the experience really shines, so either way, you’re not missing out on anything.
A Quick Note From Me
If you’re planning a destination wedding in Europe, I’m already so excited for you. These places are incredible, but what really matters is how your day feels in it, and having someone there to document it all in a way that’s honest and intentional. I’m Kylie, a destination wedding photographer who loves traveling and capturing days like this. So if one of these locations is calling your name, I’d truly love to be there with you.
