After successfully navigating past the first date jitters, meeting the parents, and proposing, planning your wedding is the next big thing on your to-do list. The choice of a wedding venue may seem simple, but it is actually a challenging process. There are many options across Europe and the world, ranging from vibrant cities to peaceful countryside, that make it crucial that you select the perfect destination that is appropriate for your needs. It is common for couples to select a familiar location they have previously visited and have fallen in love with, but others view getting married abroad as an opportunity to discover a new country or region.
Unless you're already familiar with your desired location or have connections there, it's highly recommended to consider hiring a wedding planner. They can provide valuable local knowledge, assist with any language barriers, and save you money in the long run by being able to make on-site visits and meet suppliers.
It is ultimately important to select a location for a destination wedding that speaks to your heart. In terms of finding the ideal ethereal setting for your big day, you have the world at your disposal, from an authentic Italian church to a beach wedding on soft sand. In many ways, the vast expanse of landscapes around the globe symbolizes the freedom of true love.
We have compiled a list of our top picks for destination wedding locations in the world.
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Amalfi Coast, Italy
This is why we love it: The Amalfi Coast in Italy is an ideal location for a wedding due to its breathtaking beauty, romantic atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. The picturesque coastline of the island, dotted with colorful cliffside villages and overlooking the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, offers an ideal backdrop for a wedding ceremony. The Amalfi Coast also offers a variety of stunning venues for weddings, including historic villas, luxurious hotels, and beautiful gardens.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Amalfi Coast is steeped in Italian history and culture. The region is home to many beautiful churches and ancient ruins that provide a sense of history and tradition. The local cuisine is also a highlight, with fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and fine Italian wines all contributing to an unforgettable culinary experience.
Finally, the warm and hospitable culture of the Italian people makes the Amalfi Coast an excellent choice for a destination wedding. Italians are known for their love of romance and celebration, and they go out of their way to make sure that their guests have a wonderful time. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and warm hospitality, the Amalfi Coast is an ideal location for a dream wedding.
The best time for a wedding is: April-June
Venue ideas for weddings:
Lake Como, Italy
This is why we love it: Lake Como, Italy is a popular location for weddings because of its stunning natural beauty, luxurious atmosphere, and romantic ambiance. With its picturesque lakeside towns, breathtaking mountain scenery, and elegant villas, Lake Como provides a picturesque backdrop for a memorable wedding celebration. Additionally, the region boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, with numerous historic landmarks, art galleries, and museums that can add a unique touch to a wedding ceremony.
Finally, Lake Como is renowned for its world-class cuisine, offering couples and their guests the opportunity to indulge in delicious local Italian fare and wine. Overall, Lake Como offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, luxury, romance, and culture that makes it an ideal destination for weddings.
The best time for a wedding is: April – June, September – October
Venue ideas for weddings:
Tuscany, Italy
This is why we love it: Tuscany, Italy is a popular location for weddings for several reasons. Firstly, Tuscany is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, including rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and cypress trees. This picturesque backdrop provides an idyllic setting for couples looking to exchange vows in a romantic and peaceful environment.
Secondly, Tuscany is steeped in history and culture, with numerous historic cities and towns offering a range of stunning venues for wedding ceremonies and receptions. These include historic castles, palaces, and villas, many of which are surrounded by beautiful gardens and provide breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside.
Thirdly, Tuscany is known for its delicious food and wine, with a rich culinary heritage that includes local specialties such as Chianti wine, Pecorino cheese, and fresh pasta dishes. Couples and their guests can enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine and wine during their wedding celebrations, adding a touch of local flavor to their special day.
Overall, the combination of natural beauty, history and culture, and culinary delights make Tuscany a unique and memorable location for weddings.
The best time for a wedding is: May - September
Venue ideas for weddings:
Santorini, Greece
This is why we love it: Santorini, Greece is a popular location for weddings due to its unique and stunning natural beauty, romantic atmosphere, and picturesque architecture. The island is famous for its breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, the dramatic cliffs, and the iconic blue and white buildings that are characteristic of the Greek islands. The stunning sunset views also make Santorini an ideal place for a romantic wedding ceremony.
The island also has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites and museums that add an extra layer of authenticity to a wedding experience. Finally, Santorini's delicious local cuisine and warm hospitality make it a perfect place to celebrate a wedding with family and friends. Overall, Santorini offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and romance, making it an ideal destination for weddings.
The best time for a wedding is: April – May, September – November
Venue ideas for weddings:
Scottish Highlands, Scotland
This is why we love it: The Scottish Highlands, Scotland is a popular location for weddings due to its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and romantic atmosphere. The rugged and wild landscapes of the Scottish Highlands offer a unique and breathtaking backdrop for a wedding ceremony. From the majestic mountains to the tranquil lochs, the natural beauty of the region is simply awe-inspiring. The Scottish Highlands are also home to numerous historic castles, manors, and traditional Scottish venues, which add a touch of grandeur and authenticity to any wedding celebration.
Moreover, the Scottish Highlands are steeped in history and culture, with a rich heritage of Celtic traditions, music, and folklore that can add a unique touch to a wedding ceremony. The region is also known for its warm hospitality and friendly people, who can make a wedding experience truly memorable. Finally, the Scottish cuisine, with its famous dishes like haggis, smoked salmon, and whiskey, can provide a delicious and authentic taste of Scotland for wedding guests.
Overall, the Scottish Highlands offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and romance, making it an ideal location for weddings.
The best time for a wedding is: June – August
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Spain
This is why we love it: Spain is a popular location for weddings due to its warm climate, rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. With its diverse landscapes, Spain offers a wide range of wedding venues, from coastal towns and beaches to historic castles and vineyards. The country's warm and sunny weather also makes it an ideal destination for outdoor weddings.
Spain is also renowned for its unique and delicious cuisine, with each region offering its own specialties and local wines that can add an extra touch of authenticity to a wedding celebration. The country's rich history and culture are also evident in its numerous historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries, which can add an element of sophistication and elegance to a wedding ceremony.
Finally, Spain's lively and festive atmosphere, with its music, dance, and traditions, makes it an ideal place for a joyous and memorable wedding celebration with family and friends. Overall, Spain offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and gastronomy that make it an ideal destination for weddings.
The best time for a wedding is: May – September
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South Africa
This is why we love it: South Africa is a unique and diverse location for weddings, offering a combination of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious amenities. With its diverse landscapes, South Africa provides a range of wedding venues, from the picturesque vineyards and mountains of the Western Cape to the game reserves and national parks that offer a true African experience. The country's warm and sunny climate also makes it an ideal destination for outdoor weddings. South Africa's cultural diversity is reflected in its numerous historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries, which can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to a wedding ceremony.
Additionally, South Africa is renowned for its world-class cuisine and wines, with a fusion of local and international flavors that can cater to different tastes and preferences.
Finally, South Africa's favorable exchange rate and affordability compared to other international wedding destinations make it an attractive option for couples looking to have a luxury wedding experience without breaking the bank. Overall, South Africa offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and luxury that make it an ideal destination for weddings.
The best time for a wedding is: November – March
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France
This is why we love it: France offers a variety of romantic locations that make it a desirable destination for weddings. Among the many charming and picturesque locations throughout the country, including the French Riviera, the Loire Valley, and Provence, Paris is a popular choice. There are numerous other charming and picturesque locations throughout the country as well.
There is no doubt that France is known for its breathtaking scenery, including rolling hills, vineyards, historic chateaux, and picturesque villages. These landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for wedding ceremonies, and many venues offer stunning views of the French countryside, as well.
A wedding celebration in France can be enhanced by its rich cultural and historical heritage. Many wedding venues offer the opportunity to incorporate French culture into the wedding, from food and wine to music and entertainment, as the country is known for its art, architecture, and gastronomy.
The city is well connected by air and rail to many parts of the world, making it an ideal destination for wedding guests. In addition, the country has a reliable transportation network, including rental cars and taxis, making it easy for guests to travel to and from the wedding venue.
There is no doubt that France's romantic locations, beautiful scenery, rich culture and history, accessibility, and skilled wedding vendors make it a popular destination for destination weddings.
The best time for a wedding is: March-May & September-November; early July to see the lavender
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Morocco
This is why we love it: With its vibrant culture, bustling markets, and stunning landscapes, Morocco is an exotic and unique location for a wedding. From the desert dunes of the Sahara to the stunning beaches of Essaouira, the country offers a variety of picturesque backdrops.
Morocco has a rich history and culture influenced by Berber, Arab, and European influences. With a destination wedding in Morocco, you can incorporate elements of Moroccan culture, such as the traditional music, cuisine, and fashion, to create a truly memorable event for you and your guests.
Morocco is home to a variety of luxurious hotels and resorts that offer world-class amenities and services. If you are looking for a luxury villa in the Atlas Mountains or a five-star hotel in Marrakesh, Morocco has something to offer everyone.
Morocco is easily accessible from Europe and other parts of the world, with major airports located in Casablanca and Marrakech. There is also a well-developed tourist infrastructure in the country, with many venues and vendors that cater to destination weddings.
The Moroccan desert offers a variety of adventure activities for you and your guests to enjoy before and after your wedding, such as camel trekking in the desert, hiking in the Atlas Mountains, and surfing in Taghazout.
There are a number of reasons why Moroccan is a popular destination for destination weddings. These include its exotic location, rich history and culture, luxury accommodations, accessibility, and adventure activities. As an example, couples can choose to have a traditional Moroccan wedding ceremony with a camel caravan or a more modern ceremony on a beachfront with a view of the Moroccan sunset.
The best time for a wedding is: March-May, September-November
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Turkey
This is why we love it: From the turquoise waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey has some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the world. Beautiful scenery in the country makes for a memorable backdrop for a destination wedding.
Turkey is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, which is a unique blend of European and Middle Eastern influences. It is possible to create a unique and memorable experience for you and your guests by incorporating traditional Turkish elements, such as music, dance, and cuisine, at a destination wedding in Turkey.
The Turkish people are known for their hospitality and warmth, and the country has a well-developed tourism industry. There are many venues and vendors in Turkey that specialize in destination weddings, and they can provide exceptional service and attention to detail.
Turkey offers excellent value for money when compared with other popular wedding destinations in Europe. Due to the lower cost of living and favorable exchange rate, couples can stretch their budget further and create the wedding of their dreams without breaking the bank.
Turkey is easily accessible from Europe and other parts of the world, with major airports located in Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir. The country also boasts a well-developed transportation infrastructure, making it convenient for guests to travel between venues.
The best time for a wedding is: February - April, July - November
Venue ideas for weddings:
Fiji
This is why we love it: With its stunning beaches and lush tropical forests, Fiji provides couples with a unique and romantic experience. The crystal clear waters and white sand beaches provide a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos, and the warm climate offers couples a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
In addition to the natural beauty of Fiji, couples can also enjoy the cultural activities available. From traditional Fijian dancing and music to the many resorts and spas, couples can enjoy a variety of activities to make their wedding day special. Whether couples are looking for a relaxing spa day or a night out of dancing and music, Fiji offers plenty of options.
The hospitality of the Fijian people is well known, and many couples are drawn to the hospitality and warmth of the locals. The Fijian people are very welcoming and accommodating, making it easy for couples to feel at home. From friendly conversations to local delicacies, couples can experience true Fijian culture during their destination wedding.
The affordability of Fiji is also a great draw for destination weddings. With many different resorts and hotel options, couples can find a package to fit their budget and make their wedding day special. From budget-friendly resorts to five-star luxury, couples can find something to suit their needs and make their special day a memorable one.
The best time for a wedding is: May – mid-October
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Bali, Indonesia
This is why we love it: Bali is a stunningly beautiful destination, making it the perfect backdrop for destination weddings. With its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and majestic terraced rice fields, Bali offers a unique ambiance for couples to start their new lives together. Its breathtaking beaches and stunning sunsets provide a romantic setting for couples to exchange their vows.
The culture of Bali is also incredibly welcoming to couples who choose to have a destination wedding. From traditional Balinese ceremonies to modern western-style weddings, couples have a wide range of options to fit their individual preferences. The locals are incredibly friendly and accommodating to visitors, making it easy to plan a wedding that everyone will remember and cherish.
The affordability of Bali is another major draw for destination weddings. It is possible to have a dream wedding in Bali without breaking the bank. Couples can choose to stay in luxurious villas or hotels to get the most out of their wedding experience. The cost of food, entertainment, and transportation are also relatively low, allowing couples to make their special day even more special.
In addition, Bali is a great destination for couples who want to spend some time together after their wedding. From exploring the countryside to taking part in traditional Balinese ceremonies, there are plenty of opportunities for couples to create lasting memories.
The best time for a wedding is: May-June & September
Venue ideas for weddings:
Udaipur, India
This is why we love it: Udaipur is a beautiful and romantic destination and has become increasingly popular for destination weddings. With its stunning lakeside views, lavish and opulent palaces, and unique cultural heritage, it is no wonder why so many couples are choosing to celebrate their special day amidst the beauty of Udaipur.
The city of Udaipur is renowned for its majestic palaces and forts, with the most popular one being the City Palace. Located by the tranquil Lake Pichola, the City Palace is a magnificent structure that epitomizes the grandeur of the city. Couples can enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake and the palace while exchanging their vows.
Another aspect of Udaipur that makes it so appealing as a wedding destination is its rich culture and history. The city is home to many significant temples, such as the Jagdish Temple, the Jagmandir Temple, and the Jag Mandir. Couples can take part in traditional ceremonies such as the Baraat, Ghud Chadi, and the Varmala, while enjoying the vibrant culture of Udaipur.
Udaipur is also home to a number of luxurious hotels, resorts and heritage properties. These venues offer couples a unique and exclusive experience to celebrate their special day. Couples can choose from a range of options, from royal palaces to intimate heritage properties, to create their dream wedding.
The best time for a wedding is: September-March
Venue ideas for weddings:
Thailand
This is why we love it: Thailand is a popular destination for destination weddings because of its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and wide range of activities and attractions. Its beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and exotic wildlife create a picturesque backdrop for couples to tie the knot.
Thailand’s vibrant culture also adds to its appeal for destination weddings. With its rich heritage, colorful festivals, and bustling nightlife, couples can celebrate their special day in style. Whether you are looking for a traditional Thai wedding or something more modern, Thailand has something to offer any couple.
The wide range of activities and attractions makes Thailand a great choice for destination weddings. From relaxing on the beach to exploring the lush jungles and ancient ruins, couples will find plenty of ways to enjoy their time in Thailand. For couples looking to explore the culture and cuisine, there are many unique and delicious dishes to try.
Finally, the affordability of Thailand makes it a great option for destination weddings. With its low cost of living, couples can plan a wedding that fits within their budget. From high-end luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit any budget.
The best time for a wedding is: November-May
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Hawaii
This is why we love it: With its warm, tropical climate, Hawaii provides a temperate climate throughout the year, making it an ideal location for a wedding. By doing so, couples are able to plan their wedding dates with confidence, knowing that they can expect good weather and comfortable temperatures for their special day.
It is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Native Hawaiian, Asian, and Western cultures. As a result of this cultural diversity, couples and their guests have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and cuisine, as well as explore the island's history and culture.
Hawaii is easily accessible from major cities in the United States and around the world, making it a convenient destination for wedding guests from a variety of locations. There are numerous hotels and resorts in Hawaii that offer wedding packages that include everything from ceremony and reception venues to catering and photography services, making planning a wedding easier.
The best time for a wedding is: March-August
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The Maldives
This is why we love it: A beautiful archipelago surrounded by crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, the Maldives consists of over 1000 coral islands. In addition to private villas with direct beach access, overwater bungalows, and world-class amenities including spas, fine dining restaurants, and water sports, Maldives offers some of the world's most luxurious resorts. The resorts are exclusive and intimate settings for weddings, which ensures couples and their guests have a memorable and luxurious experience.
It is not uncommon to find secluded and private resorts in the Maldives, offering couples the opportunity to exchange their vows in complete privacy.
With influences from India, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East, the Maldives culture is unique and exotic. In addition to experiencing traditional Maldivian music, dance, and cuisine, couples and their guests may also explore the island's history and culture as part of this cultural diversity.
Maldives is easily accessible from major cities around the world, with several airlines offering direct flights to Malé International Airport.
The best time for a wedding is: December & April
Venue ideas for weddings:
Mexico
This is why we love it: The beauty of Mexico's beaches, turquoise waters, and picturesque landscapes makes it an ideal location for romantic and memorable weddings. In addition to the Pacific Coast, Caribbean Sea, and Yucatan Peninsula, the country offers couples a wide variety of settings to choose from, making it an ideal location for couples.
Mexico's culture is rich and vibrant, influenced by indigenous culture, Spanish culture, and contemporary influences. Combined with the traditional music, dance, and cuisine, this provides an additional dimension to a wedding celebration, as well as the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, colonial architecture, and art galleries.
Many direct flights are available from North America and Europe to major cities in Mexico, including Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos. Couples and their guests can take advantage of the convenience of avoiding long-distance travel by taking advantage of this convenient destination.
There are numerous all-inclusive resorts in Mexico offering affordable wedding packages, including everything from ceremony and reception venues to catering and photography services. Couples can plan their wedding on a budget without compromising on quality.
Even though Mexico's climate is ideal for weddings, couples should still take into account hurricane season when planning their special day.
The best time for a wedding is: October-July
Venue ideas for weddings:
Napa & Sonoma, United States
This is why we love it: A romantic and stunning backdrop for wedding ceremonies and receptions can be found in Napa and Sonoma, which are known for their picturesque vineyards and rolling hills. Outdoor venues are available at many wineries for wedding ceremonies and receptions, allowing guests to enjoy the picturesque scenery while sipping fine wines.
A unique and unforgettable experience awaits your guests in Napa and Sonoma, where gourmet restaurants and wine tasting experiences can be enjoyed.
Napa and Sonoma enjoy a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination for weddings all year round. Couples can therefore plan their wedding dates with confidence, knowing that the weather will be good and temperatures will be comfortable for their special event.
Napa and Sonoma offer a variety of unique wedding venues, including historic mansions, rustic barns, and boutique hotels, in addition to vineyards and wineries. The venue can be chosen to reflect a couple's personality and style, creating a memorable and personalized wedding experience for the couple.
The best time for a wedding is: June & September
Venue ideas for weddings:
Las Vegas, United States
This is why we love it: The process of getting married in Las Vegas is streamlined and straightforward, and can take as little as 15 minutes. There are many chapels and venues that offer all-inclusive wedding packages, which include everything from the ceremony to the reception, making it an easy and convenient place for couples to get married. Couples can obtain a marriage license very quickly and easily.
Wedding venues in Las Vegas include traditional chapels, luxury resorts, scenic outdoor locations, and themed events. By choosing a venue that meets the preferences and budget of the couple, a personalized and unique wedding experience can be created.
It is no secret that Las Vegas is known for its entertainment and nightlife. Couples and their guests will have endless options for entertainment before and after the wedding. From world-class shows to casinos, nightclubs, and restaurants, Las Vegas is always a great place to be.
There are a number of wedding chapels and venues in Las Vegas which offer competitive pricing and all-inclusive packages, which allows couples to enjoy a memorable wedding experience without breaking the bank.
The best time for a wedding is: April-May, September-October
Venue ideas for weddings:
Overview
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