Why put together a list of the best places to elope in the world? Destination elopements are expected to become increasingly popular in the future, according to experts in the wedding business. In addition to being less expensive than a typical wedding, they also allow for more fun and creativity. The phrase “to elope” no longer conjures up pictures of couples running off and hastily getting married as it did in the past. The typical wedding has changed, and eloping has instead evolved into a romantic and adventurous option for couples to consider when making their vows.
Elopements now offer a more private option where the exchanging of vows is more important than all the tiny details. Without the costs of a traditional wedding, an elopement allows the couple to spend more of their budget on traveling to amazing locations for a breathtaking experience and photos.
I’ve put together a list of some of the most awe-inspiring, photo-worthy, jaw-dropping places in the world to tie the knot. These locations’ breathtaking scenery offers some wonderfully beautiful locations for saying “I do”.
Tips for Finding the Best Place to Elope
But before I get into the best places to elope in the world, I want you to keep these tips in mind as you’re looking for the best place to elope on your wedding day.
1. What’s your elopement style/vibe?
I love asking the couples I work with to close their eyes and daydream about where they’d like to elope. When you do, ask yourself what the mood is around you. Do you feel the brisk mountain air blowing around you? Are there ancient trees surrounding you, their canopy letting in golden light? Are you looking out over a sizable desert canyon, feeling the sun’s warmth on your skin?
One of my best tips is this: Don’t base your decision about where to elope on a single photo. Instead, make an effort to picture the atmosphere of your entire elopement day, the location that most thrills you two, and what is around you.
2. Are guests attending your elopement?
Some of the best places to elope are great for inviting guests, others not so much. If you plan to invite guests to your elopement, you should choose a place with adequate lodging options close by and isn’t too isolated.
I strongly recommend making your elopement simple for your guests. It will be far less stressful, I promise you! This may limit your possibilities for locations, so if having a big elopement adventure is important to you, think about eloping without guests. You could always invite your guests to a reception later in the week. Check out my advice on tips for talking to your family about eloping.
3. When is the best time to elope in your location?
There is a prime time to elope at every location. For example, springtime is a great time of year to get married in Florida! Some places have longer seasons than others, giving you more flexibility when choosing where to elope. If when you elope is more important to you than where, find somewhere to elope that works well for that season. If where is more important, you’ll need to be more flexible with your elopement dates.
Best Places in the World to Elope
Now it’s time for my list (in no particular order) of the 8 best places to elope in the world! (Not in the US).
Iceland
Iceland is a popular destination for eloping couples and should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a special and economical place to elope. The country has a lot to offer in terms of landscapes and natural beauty. Its expansive landscapes and calming hot springs make it not only breathtakingly gorgeous but also provide a wide range of reasonably priced options for lodging and entertainment.
Iceland offers the ideal fantasy wedding, from breathtaking scenery that includes everything from stunning waterfalls with mist rainbows to jet-black sand beaches, soaring mountains, and even the Northern Lights. With so many beautiful locations to choose from, the most difficult choice you’ll have to make is where to read your vows. The breathtaking scenery of this nation is hard to top.
New Zealand
Queenstown, New Zealand, is the adventure capital of the world. It’s recognized for its distinctive beauty, where the romantic wilderness meets dazzling cityscapes. There is an energy that flames spirits and seduces hearts.
Every adventurous pair may find something to do in Queenstown, from heart-pounding canyon swinging and skydiving to more sedate sightseeing tours and hiking paths.
New Zealand offers everything you could possibly want: a sunrise ceremony followed by a sumptuous picnic in golden fields, a stroll through landscapes covered in snow, a helicopter ride to a mountaintop or secret glacier lake, or a starlit dinner for two prepared by a private chef.
If you can imagine it, it can be done!
There is something about the Kiwi lifestyle that is just perfect for couples in love. Plus, New Zealanders are known for being very friendly and welcoming, so you will be sure to have a great experience eloping here.
And best of all, eloping in New Zealand is fairly easy. There are no residency requirements and you do not need to give notice to anyone before getting married. Just don’t forget to arrange for a marriage license in advance and register the marriage after the ceremony.
There aren’t many places better to elope in than New Zealand. With its stunning landscapes, friendly people, and simple marriage laws, it is the perfect place to start your life together.
Jamaica
Eloping in Jamaica is a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s a tradition that has been going on for centuries and it is still going strong. Jamaican culture is rich with history and traditions, which makes it the perfect place to elope. Eloping in Jamaica means having an intimate and memorable day that you will never forget.
With so many great reasons to elope in Jamaica, it was hard to narrow it down! Jamaica is incredibly beautiful. With its white sand beaches, crystal clear water, and lush green mountains, it’s the perfect setting for a romantic escape.
Jamaica is also home to some of the best resorts in the world, so you can be sure to find the perfect place to stay afterward for your honeymoon.
Jamaica is incredibly welcoming to eloping couples. It can be as quick as 24 hours after arriving in the country! There are no residency requirements, so you can get married here without any hassle.
Thailand
With its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant cities, there are few places as incredible to elope in as Thailand. From the stunning beaches of Phuket to the lush jungles of Chiang Mai, Thailand is a visual feast. And, of course, let’s not forget about the iconic temples. Whether you’re eloping on a beach or in the city, you’re sure to have a beautiful backdrop.
Not only is it beautiful, but Thailand is incredibly romantic. Whether you’re watching the sunset on the beach or taking a long hike through a jungle, you’re sure to create lasting memories with your loved one. There’s no shortage of romantic places to stay in Thailand, from secluded beach bungalows to luxurious villas overlooking the ocean. You can easily find the perfect place to suit your style and budget.
Thailand is home to some of the best food in the world. If you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, you’ll find it in Thailand. From Thai curries to fresh seafood, there’s something for everyone. And, naturally, there’s plenty of delicious fruit to enjoy.
And again, the people of Thailand are known to be incredibly friendly and welcoming. You’ll feel right at home as you start your new life together.
Patagonia Mountains
There are few places on earth as remarkable as the Patagonia mountains. If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable setting to elope, there’s nowhere better.
The scenery is unbeatable. With their soaring peaks and pristine valleys, the Patagonia mountains are a natural wonder. Exchange your vows surrounded by this breathtaking landscape and you’ll have memories to last a lifetime.
Eloping in the Patagonia mountains is an epic adventure you’ll never forget. Whether you hike to a remote location or take a scenic helicopter ride, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
There’s something about the Patagonia mountains that is just so relaxing. Maybe it’s the fresh air or the solitude of the area, but you’re sure to find yourself totally at ease.
Scotland (Isle of Skye)
A region filled with rolling hills, valleys, lochs, and glens, there is nowhere else quite like Scotland. And then there are the castles! Scotland is home to some of the most extraordinary castles in the world, which make for an amazing backdrop to your elopement photos.
But it’s not just the scenery that makes Scotland the ideal place to elope. The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and there is a real sense of community. You’ll feel right at home in no time!
There are many places to elope in Scotland, but the Isle of Skye is one of the best places to do so. The Isle of Skye is another fantastic fantasy-like location for a couple who enjoys outdoor adventure. Scotland is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, but the Isle of Skye is of mythical proportions. The island’s most recognizable landmark, the Old Man of Storr, is one of many stunning rock formations that dot the lush green mountains. The northern Trotternish peninsula is covered with basalt rock. A beautiful backdrop for a wedding can be found among the cerulean-hued fairy pools, shell-strewn beaches, and cascading waterfalls that plummet down to the turquoise sea below.
Italy
Italy is a country of beauty, culture, and history. It is also the perfect destination for an elopement. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the dramatic coastline of the Amalfi Coast, there’s no shortage of breathtaking locations to exchange vows. You can get married on a cliff overlooking the ocean or on top of a mountain with an amazing view.
Italians are known for their hospitality and will do anything to make sure your wedding day is perfect. Not to mention, the food is incredible. Like Thailand, Italy is known to be home to some of the best cuisines in the world, and you’ll be able to enjoy all of your favorite dishes on your special day. Italy has some great food and wine to enjoy or share with your guests after the ceremony.
Plus, there’s something incredibly romantic about eloping in Italy. Maybe it’s the fact that so many famous love stories have unfolded in this country, or maybe it’s the fact that Italians are known for being incredibly passionate. Either way, you’re sure to have a day that you’ll remember forever.
Greece (Santorini)
Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece and it has been attracting visitors for centuries. The island’s popularity comes from its stunning views, perfect weather conditions, and delicious Greek cuisine. The island has also become one of the most popular wedding destinations in Greece as well because it offers an intimate setting that is perfect for any couple to say their vows. Santorini also offers some of the most affordable prices when it comes to getting married there so if you are on a budget then this destination might be perfect for you!
For many couples planning weddings, Santorini is a no-brainer because of its famed blue-domed churches, whitewashed residences that cascade down the rim of its ancient volcanic crater, sapphire sea, and jaw-dropping sunsets. Additionally, it has some outstanding beaches with black, red, and white sand, as well as a specific type of light that provides very beautiful wedding images. You might decide to exchange vows shortly before sunset, as the sun casts a rainbow of colors across the Aegean as it sets, and then spend a romantic night at one of Santorini’s premier hotels.
The stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the picturesque island of Santorini are enough to make anyone fall in love with this destination.
You honestly can’t go wrong with any of these places. But to remember this special occasion forever, you need someone to be there to perfectly immortalize your wedding day through photos.
Finding the Right Photographer
If you’re planning an elopement to one of these exotic places, then you’ll want to hire a photographer who specializes in destination elopement photography. Why?
- They know how to capture intimate moments. An elopement photographer will be able to capture the special moments between you and your partner that you’ll want to remember for a lifetime. They’ll be able to capture the joy, excitement, and love that you and your partner feel on your special day
- They know how to work with light and locations. An experienced elopement photographer will know how to make the most of any location, whether it’s a stunning beach or a hidden waterfall.
- They’re experts at planning. If you’re planning on eloping, then you’ll want a photographer who knows how to plan and execute a smooth elopement photography shoot.
As a destination elopement photographer, I offer FREE elopement photography consultations. If one of these locations has inspired you, mention this blog post for a special rate on my destination elopement package.
Contact me to get in touch and to begin planning your epic adventure elopement!
