Best Places to Get Married Worldwide | From Adventurous Escapes to Relaxing Retreats
Planning an elopement but not sure where to go? Whether you’re dreaming of a mountaintop ceremony, a sun-soaked beach, or a charming European town, choosing the perfect destination is key to making your intimate wedding unforgettable. As a wedding photographer who captures love stories worldwide, I’ve seen firsthand how the right location can set the tone for your elopement. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to the best places to get married worldwide, with stunning backdrops, unique experiences, and all the details to help you decide. Let’s dive into the best elopement locations in the world and find your perfect match!
Why Elope in an International Destination?
Eloping abroad is more than just an adventure. It’s about creating a wedding day that feels uniquely yours, set in a place that truly takes your breath away. Here’s why so many couples are choosing to say “I do” in some of the best places to get married worldwide.
Unforgettable Scenery
Imagine saying “I do” with the Swiss Alps behind you, the turquoise waters of the Amalfi Coast stretching before you, or the northern lights dancing overhead in Iceland. Destination elopements allow you to pick a location that feels magical and meaningful.
Stress-Free Planning
Many international venues offer all-inclusive elopement packages, making it easier to plan a stress-free day. You can skip the big guest list and focus on enjoying each other during this special time.
A Built-In Honeymoon
Eloping in a dream destination means your wedding and honeymoon begin in the same beautiful place. There’s no need for extra travel or complicated plans. You can simply relax, be present, and enjoy the start of your new chapter together.
How to Choose the Perfect Elopement Destination
Picking the right spot for your elopement can feel overwhelming. Here are a few things to consider.
Scenery & Aesthetic
Do you want mountains, beaches, forests, deserts, or historic cityscapes? Think about the vibe that best fits your relationship.
Travel & Accessibility
Consider how easy or difficult it is to get to your location. Some remote spots require extra planning, while others offer direct flights and easy access.
Marriage Laws & Requirements
Each country has its own legal requirements for marriage. Some places, like Italy and France, require residency or extra paperwork, while others, like Iceland and Scotland, make it easy for foreigners to legally marry.
Best Places to Get Married in the World
Lake Como, Italy
A classic choice for luxury elopements, Lake Como is surrounded by charming villages, elegant villas, and stunning mountain views. Rent a boat, exchange vows at a lakeside villa, and toast with Aperol spritzes as the sun sets.
Santorini, Greece
With its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and cliffside views over the Aegean Sea, Santorini is one of the most romantic places in the world to elope. Sunrise ceremonies here are absolutely breathtaking.
Iceland
For adventurous couples, Iceland offers dramatic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers that create otherworldly wedding backdrops. Best of all, it’s one of the easiest countries for foreigners to get legally married.
Puglia, Italy
Puglia offers a more laid-back and authentic Italian experience, perfect for couples who love rustic charm, olive groves, and whitewashed villages by the sea. Exchange vows at a masseria or along the Adriatic coast, then celebrate with local wine and fresh pasta under the stars.
Scotland
Scotland is a dream destination for couples drawn to moody landscapes, timeless romance, and rich history. The Highlands offer dramatic mountains, lochs, and storybook castles perfect for an adventurous elopement, while Edinburgh brings a charming mix of cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and intimate city spots for a romantic urban ceremony.
Patagonia, Argentina & Chile
For wild landscapes and untamed beauty, Patagonia is perfect. Think jagged peaks, glacier lakes, and remote locations that make for truly epic wedding photos.
New Zealand
From the beaches of the North Island to the dramatic mountains of the South Island, New Zealand is one of the most diverse and scenic places to elope. It’s also home to some of the best adventure wedding locations in the world.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the perfect blend of lush rainforests, golden beaches, and tropical waterfalls—ideal for couples craving both adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re exchanging vows under a jungle canopy or toes-inthe-sand by the ocean, this destination brings the magic of nature to your wedding day.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
If you’re looking for a luxurious, tropical elopement, Bora Bora is unbeatable. Exchange vows on a private beach, a catamaran, or even at a resort with Mount Otemanu as your backdrop.
South Africa
South Africa offers a once-in-a-lifetime elopement experience with the opportunity to say your vows in the heart of safari country. Imagine a private ceremony at golden hour with elephants or giraffes roaming in the distance. From luxury lodges in Kruger National Park to romantic tented camps in the Eastern Cape, this destination is perfect for couples who want to combine wild adventure with intimate romance.
Belize
With its barrier reef, lush jungles, and ancient Mayan ruins, Belize provides a unique blend of adventure and romance. It’s perfect for couples who want a mix of beach relaxation and exploration.
Marrakech, Morocco
For couples who love vibrant colors, exotic architecture, and the charm of riads, Marrakech is a fantastic choice. The city offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and intimate hideaways.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
For Arctic beauty and rugged coastal charm, the Lofoten Islands offer breathtaking fjords, dramatic mountains, and picturesque fishing villages. It’s a perfect spot for couples seeking a mix of adventure and serenity.
Honorable Mentions
• Big Sur, California: Dramatic cliffs and Pacific Ocean views.
• Joshua Tree, California: Boho vibes, desert landscapes, and golden hour magic.
• Tuscany, Italy: Rolling vineyards, rustic charm, and timeless romance.
• Kyoto, Japan: Cherry blossoms, historic temples, and peaceful gardens.
• Lake Tahoe, California: Ideal for natural beauty and year-round activities.
• Aruba: Pristine beaches and a laid-back tropical atmosphere.
• Bali, Indonesia: Lush jungles, waterfalls, and secluded beaches.
Your Elopement Photographer: Capturing Your Dream Destination Wedding
If you’re eloping in one of these best places to get married worldwide, you’ll want a photographer who can capture every moment beautifully. That’s where I come in. As a wedding photographer, I specialize in timeless, candid imagery that tells the full story of your day. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a cliffside in Scotland or a vineyard in Italy, I’ll document every detail with authenticity and artistry.
Ready to book your destination elopement photographer? Let’s chat about your dream wedding! Contact me here
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If you’re ready to plan your dream elopement, I’d love to capture it for you. Contact me today to start making your elopement vision come to life!
