Top 10 Destination Wedding Locations: Stunning Venues Around the World
Choosing the perfect location for your destination wedding can be a daunting task.
You want a place that offers breathtaking views, excellent facilities, and a memorable experience for your guests. This guide will help you explore some of the best locations around the world where you can tie the knot in style.
From sandy beaches to historic European cities, each destination has its unique charm and beauty.
Whether you prefer a tropical paradise or a romantic castle, you’ll find a location that fits your dream wedding vision.
1) Santorini, Greece
Santorini is one of the most stunning places for a destination wedding.
This Greek island is famous for its breathtaking sunsets and beautiful white-washed buildings.
Le Ciel is a top venue in Santorini.
It offers a private open-air terrace with panoramic views and can host up to 80 people seated.
The indoor area can accommodate up to 120 guests.
Madame Sousou provides a charming and rustic setting.
Located in Pyrgos, this restaurant gives you sweeping views of the island and promises some of the best sunsets in Santorini.
The unique cliffside architecture of Santorini makes any wedding ceremony mesmerizing.
The buildings are designed to capture panoramic views of the caldera and Aegean Sea.
Santorini’s volcanic history adds to its allure.
The ancient eruption that formed its crescent shape creates spectacular cliffs and vistas.
Many couples choose Santorini for its iconic views and romantic atmosphere.
This island blends natural beauty with a sense of history, making it an unforgettable wedding destination.
2) Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is a top destination for weddings.
Its landscapes are breathtaking, with rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages.
Many couples choose it for its beauty and romantic atmosphere.
There are various venues in Tuscany.
You can choose from elegant villas, historic castles, or picturesque wineries. Villa Scorzi, for instance, is a 14th-century venue with historical charm.
It’s located near Pisa, offering easy access for guests.
For a more intimate setting, Locanda in Tuscany provides stunning views.
It is ideal for small, personal celebrations.
The nearby village of Val d’Orcia adds to the appeal with its scenic beauty.
If you’re hosting a larger wedding, some estates can accommodate many guests.
The Tuscany Wedding Wine Estate has space for up to 160 guests and includes on-site accommodations.
Activities for guests are plentiful.
You can arrange private picnics, cooking classes, and wine tastings.
The 740-acre estate mentioned on The Knot is perfect for these experiences.
Accommodations vary widely.
Some locations offer full hotel services, while others provide cozy guest houses.
This flexibility allows you to find something that fits your needs.
Tuscany combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and elegant venues.
It is a top choice for couples looking for a memorable wedding experience.
3) Maui, Hawaii
Maui is known for its stunning beauty and romantic settings.
This island offers crystal blue waters, pristine beaches, and regal palm trees.
One of the most popular venues is the Grand Wailea.
This luxury resort has everything you need for a dream wedding, including outdoor event spaces and amazing ocean views.
Another great venue is the Hotel Wailea.
This luxurious hotel is perfect for those looking for an intimate and elegant wedding.
The hotel offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing you to choose the setting that best fits your vision.
Maui is also popular for destination weddings.
Costs can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on your preferences.
You can find more information about packages and pricing on Destination Weddings.
If you want a spectacular setting for your wedding photos, consider the Wailea Beach.
The stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean is unbeatable.
This beach is perfect for both large celebrations and small elopements.
Another notable venue is the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa.
Located on Maui’s South Shore, this resort offers 28 different event spaces.
It’s suitable for everything from an elopement to a large, multi-day wedding celebration.
Maui’s scenic views make it a favorite for couples who want a picturesque wedding.
It combines natural beauty with luxury amenities, making it an ideal choice for your special day.
4) Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast, Italy, is a stunning destination for your wedding.
Known for its breathtaking cliffs and blue seas, it offers a perfect backdrop for your special day.
Many couples choose this location for its mix of romance and natural beauty.
You’ll find several charming villages along the coast.
Cities like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi are popular spots for weddings.
These locations offer quaint streets, beautiful landscapes, and historic charm.
A variety of venues are available.
For a unique experience, consider Hotel Marincanto, an intimate hotel with an authentic Italian flair.
It’s perfect for small, stylish weddings and can host up to 50 guests.
Another excellent option is a medieval wedding palace in Ravello.
This venue features antique furnishings and exclusive ambiance.
With only 13 rooms, it’s ideal for small, private ceremonies.
Planning a wedding here can vary in cost.
Simple weddings may start around €15,000 to €20,000.
For more extravagant celebrations, expect to spend between €50,000 and €100,000 according to Live and Wed.
Hiring a local wedding planner can ease the process.
They can help you choose the best venue, catering, and decor to fit your vision.
Many venues are within a short walk of the scenic coast and historic sites, making it easy for you and your guests to explore.
Whether you dream of a coastal villa or a historic hotel, the Amalfi Coast provides a magical setting for your wedding day.
5) Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a top destination for weddings.
It combines natural beauty with unique cultural elements.
This island offers stunning beaches, lush jungles, and beautiful temples.
You can choose from many venues.
The Cliff-Edge Cabana at Alila Villas Uluwatu is popular.
It provides breathtaking ocean views.
If you prefer something more secluded, consider Villa Pemutih.
This venue on Bukit Pecatu is perfect for intimate ceremonies.
It accommodates from 60 to 100 guests comfortably.
Planning is easier with local wedding planners.
They help arrange everything from decor to catering.
This ensures your special day goes smoothly.
For a larger event, explore the extensive list of 139 wedding venues in Bali.
These can cater to various budgets and preferences.
Bali’s diverse options make it ideal for creating your dream wedding.
Whether you want a beachfront ceremony or a jungle-themed event, this island has it all.
6) Paris, France
Paris, often called the “City of Love,” is a top choice for destination weddings.
The city offers stunning venues ranging from opulent palace hotels to charming châteaux.
Each venue brings a unique blend of historical and modern elegance, perfect for making your special day unforgettable.
One of the best venues in Paris is Le Bristol, celebrated for its classic French style.
This luxurious hotel provides several event spaces, offering a perfect backdrop for a romantic wedding.
The Hilton Paris Opera is another excellent option.
It is well-known for its classic Parisian ambiance and convenient location near numerous landmarks.
This hotel combines elegance with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for you and your guests.
For a fairytale-like setting, consider the Chateau de Chantilly.
This iconic venue features beautiful English gardens and an “island of love,” making it an exceptional choice for a picturesque wedding.
The Château du Vivier is perfect if you desire a venue with historical charm.
Situated in Fontenay-Trésigny, this château offers a mystic and romantic setting, ideal for a unique wedding experience.
When planning your wedding in Paris, you can expect a predominantly English-speaking vendor base, which simplifies the process for international couples.
The city’s stunning architecture, rich culture, and romantic atmosphere make it a dream wedding destination.
7) Phuket, Thailand
Phuket offers a stunning backdrop for your destination wedding.
The island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and vibrant culture.
You can choose from a variety of venues.
For instance, The Naka Island provides both indoor and outdoor spaces, accommodating up to 300 guests.
If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, the Anantara Layan Phuket Resort offers a package for 10 guests.
This includes the ceremony, reception, and a delightful mix of food and drinks.
Phuket also boasts luxurious resorts like the one found on Tripadvisor, with amenities fit for a dream wedding.
These resorts provide everything you need, from accommodations to wedding planning services.
Additionally, you can explore destination wedding hotels in Phuket, which all offer romantic and elegant settings.
The Honeymoon Suite is often included, ensuring your special day extends into a beautiful night.
Whether you’re planning a grand event or an intimate ceremony, Phuket has something to offer.
Its combination of stunning natural beauty and top-notch facilities makes it an ideal choice for a memorable wedding.
8) Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como in Italy offers an unmatched backdrop for a destination wedding.
Nestled between mountains and the lake, it provides stunning views.
One notable venue is Villa Dolceacqua.
This villa boasts a large garden, refined interiors, and elegant spaces, making it well-suited for personalized weddings.
Villa Balbiano, featured in the movie “The House of Gucci,” is another iconic location.
Known for its prestige, it has been selected by top magazines like Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue US.
In Cernobbio, you will find Villa Erba.
This historic 18th-century villa is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, elegant architecture, and inlaid ceilings.
The stunning natural surroundings make it a perfect choice for a romantic wedding.
The luxurious Grand Hotel Tremezzo and Villa Sola Cabiati offer lush gardens, stunning ballrooms, and jaw-dropping views of the water.
These features make them some of the most opulent places to get married in Italy.
Another option is Villa Pizzo, located between Cernobbio and Moltrasio.
This Neoclassical villa can host up to 210 guests and is accessible by boat, making it an exclusive retreat for your special day.
9) Morocco, North Africa
Morocco offers a stunning mix of cultural and scenic beauty for your wedding.
With its unique blend of African, Arab, and French influences, you get an exotic destination that’s rich in history and tradition.
In Marrakech, you can find luxury venues like Amanjena.
Inspired by the rose-hued buildings of old Marrakech, this 5-star venue offers shaded courtyards, fountains, and landscaped gardens.
For a more traditional Moroccan experience, consider places that highlight local cuisine and architecture.
Imagine serving tagines with Moroccan spices and authentic mint tea at your wedding feast.
The Morocco Riads & Beyond site offers exceptional venues that truly capture the essence of Morocco.
You can also have your wedding in Casablanca or the Atlas Mountains.
The scenic beauty of these regions provides a dramatic backdrop.
Featuring Arabian night sunsets and intricate Arabic architecture, the venues here are limitless.
If you prefer a modern touch, many Moroccan hotels offer luxury wedding packages.
For instance, some hotels have a mix of suites and villas and can cater for up to 1,000 guests, as mentioned by Crimson Letters.
Remember that the cost can vary depending on the season and the scale of your event.
Seasons affect venue availability and prices, so planning ahead is crucial.
For a detailed guide on expense planning, you might find Blissful Plans helpful.
10) Maldives
The Maldives is an ideal destination for a wedding.
The islands offer stunning beaches and clear blue waters, making it an unforgettable place to celebrate your special day.
You can choose from many beautiful resorts.
For a luxury experience, consider Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas.
This resort provides a range of water sports and has a fitness center on-site.
Lux* South Ari Atoll is another great option.
Located in Dhidhoofinolhu, it’s just a short seaplane journey from Male International Airport.
They offer different wedding packages, including the Island Dream Wedding Package.
If you’re looking for something inclusive, many resorts in the Maldives offer all-inclusive options.
Cinnamon Dhonveli is one such resort, perfect for a luxury wedding with a sunset backdrop.
For a more unique experience, you might like the beach pool villas and water villas at Olhuveli in Kudahuvadhoo Dhaalu Atoll.
They also offer spa therapies and in-house restaurants worth trying.
The Maldives offers something for every couple.
Whether you want a private ceremony or a grand event, these resorts can cater to your needs and make your wedding truly memorable.
Planning a wedding in the Maldives ensures a picturesque setting and a wide range of amenities to keep you and your guests entertained.
Explore these options to find the perfect venue for your dream wedding.
Key Factors in Choosing a Destination
When selecting a destination for your wedding, you need to consider a variety of factors.
Key elements include accessibility and climate, which can impact both your experience and your guests’ comfort.
Accessibility and Travel Logistics
It’s crucial to think about how easily your guests can reach the destination.
Check flights, transportation options, and local infrastructure.
For instance, a popular choice like Costa Rica is well-connected by major airlines and offers good roads.
Consider the distance from the airport to your venue.
A long, complicated journey from the airport can be tiring for guests.
Also, investigate if there are necessary visas or travel documents required for entry.
Communication ease is another aspect; ensure you’re choosing a location where you can find reliable local vendors who speak your language or have translators available.
Finally, assess accessibility for guests with special needs or mobility issues.
Climate and Weather Conditions
Research the local climate and typical weather conditions for your potential wedding date.
Some destinations have a specific season that’s best for weddings.
For example, avoid hurricane season in Caribbean locations like Marrakesh, Morocco to ensure good weather.
Check historical weather data to understand the likelihood of rain, extreme heat, or cold.
Knowing the weather patterns helps you plan appropriately, from attire to the setup of your venue.
Also, consider if the destination experiences any seasonal issues like wildfires, floods, or monsoons, which can disrupt your plans.
Pay attention to the backup options a venue offers in case of unexpected weather changes.
An indoor or covered area can save the day if an unexpected storm hits.
Legal Considerations for Destination Weddings
When planning a destination wedding, understanding the legal requirements is crucial.
You will need to navigate different jurisdictions, which often means varying documentation and procedures.
Marriage License Requirements
Before you can get married abroad, ensure you meet all marriage license requirements.
Requirements typically include providing passports, birth certificates, and tourist cards.
You might be required to submit these documents at your destination’s Civil Registry Office.
Additionally, many countries require two witnesses who are over 18.
Some places even mandate health checks, like a blood test.
Consider completing a civil ceremony at home first.
It simplifies the paperwork, letting you focus on the celebration.
Websites like Courtly can help with online marriage platforms that are recognized legally.
Local Laws and Regulations
Each destination has its own local laws and regulations.
Research these in advance to avoid any issues.
For instance, some countries have specific requirements for the ceremony venue, or you might need an authorized officiant present to make the marriage official.
You should also check if there are residency requirements.
Some places require you to spend a certain number of days in the country before the ceremony.
Being aware of these conditions will help you avoid any last-minute surprises, making your dream wedding smooth and memorable.
Cultural and Seasonal Influences
In destination weddings, the local culture and seasons can significantly impact your experience.
This includes unique customs that reflect the destination’s character and the best times of the year for optimal weather and scenery.
Unique Local Customs
Different places have distinct traditions that can enhance your wedding experience.
For instance, in Greece, it is customary to have a large wedding feast with local dishes like lamb and moussaka.
Music and dancing, especially the traditional Greek dance, Sirtaki, are pivotal parts of the celebration.
In Morocco, a wedding may include a henna ceremony, where the bride’s hands are decorated in intricate designs.
Similarly, in India, a wedding often comprises multiple days of rituals, including the vibrant Mehendi ceremony.
These customs offer a glimpse into the local culture, making your wedding all the more memorable.
It’s essential to research these traditions and possibly incorporate them into your ceremony and reception.
Best Seasons for Weddings
Choosing the right season for your destination wedding can ensure favorable weather and beautiful landscapes.
In Santorini, Greece, the best time for a wedding is from May to October, when the weather is sunny and warm.
Similarly, the Caribbean is ideal from November to April, avoiding the hurricane season.
Costa Rica is perfect between December and April, offering dry and sunny days.
If you’re considering a wedding in Portugal, aim for late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Each destination has its own peak and off-peak seasons, which can also affect availability and costs, so plan accordingly to make the most of your special day.