Europe has some of the best elopement destinations in the world – from idyllic beaches to majestic mountains, with plenty of history and amazing food along the way. If you’re exploring the idea of eloping in Europe but aren’t sure where exactly you want to get married, here are some fantastic options that I think are some of the best places to elope for outdoorsy couples.
What you’ll find in this list of Europe elopement destinations:
- Why Elope in Europe?
- What Makes a Destination One of the Best Places to Elope in Europe?
- Where to Elope in Europe
Why Elope in Europe?
I’m so passionate about European elopements and all the amazing locations where you can get married!Â
The moment I set foot in my first European country (England), I could tell that it really was as magical as I had imagined. I was hooked. And when it came time to pick a place for our elopement-style 10 year vow renewal, my husband and I knew there was no better place to celebrate than Europe.
If you love to travel, an elopement abroad brings so much extra fulfillment to your celebration.
There’s something indescribable about exploring a new place and feeling wonder at everything around you. Creating these memories and sharing these experiences just adds another beautiful layer to your connection with your partner.
What Makes a Destination One of the Best Places to Elope in Europe?
Privacy + Peace
Some locations in Europe are beautiful, but they lack the quietness you need for a peaceful elopement.Â
For instance, the coastal town of Positano might be one of the most popular places to elope in Italy, but it’s also a busy destination where it’s difficult to find a spot all to yourselves. You don’t want tourists walking by and taking photos while you’re sharing heartfelt vows with your partner, right?
I’ve chosen these best places because they have the opportunity to get the seclusion you need for a more relaxed and intimate elopement experience.Â
Awe-Inspiring Scenery
It’s not just about how a landscape looks, but also about how the place makes you feel. The best scenery is the one that gives you a sense of child-like wonder as you explore. Where you feel like a tiny person in a big, big world. Where you stop to notice the little things like wildflower blooms, lichen on a rock, or seabirds in the sky.
Europe offers this with a diverse array of locations, wildlife, and plants throughout the region. Whatever inspires you, you’ll find it here!Â
Unique Experiences
Adding unique experiences to your day creates a truly unforgettable elopement. Moments like these will leave you and your partner saying, “I can’t believe we got to do that!”
Whether you like heart-pounding adventures like a via ferrata and cliff jumping, more relaxing activities like visiting a vineyard or soaking in hot springs, or something in between, Europe has so much to choose from.
Where to Elope in Europe
Snæfellsness Peninsula, Iceland
Of course you were expecting Iceland to make it on this list of places to elope in Europe! It has reached high fame as an incredible destination, whether in the green summers or the snow-filled winters. There is truly so much to explore in Iceland, and many hidden gems within the vast amounts of rugged nature.
If you want to keep your drive times down, I highly recommend the Snæfellsness Peninsula, just a 2 hour drive from Reykjavik. This area has a taste of just about everything Iceland has to offer – waterfalls (soooo many), lupine wildflower fields, black beaches, snow capped mountains, lava fields, hot springs, sea stacks, and plenty of wildlife to see. It also gets much less tourist traffic than the famous south coast, so it’s easier to find a quiet spot for your elopement ceremony. Even in the high season of summer (July), you can find peaceful locations with fantastic views.
And if you don’t mind the cold, elope in the winter! The landscapes, blanketed by snow, are breathtaking. And getting a view of the northern lights on your elopement day is absolutely priceless!
The Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands are truly a hidden gem among the best places to elope in Europe. This often forgotten archipelago north of Scotland is home to some of the most incredible scenery you’ll find. The volcanically formed islands rise in high, grassy peaks from the tumultuous North Sea and provide amazing views in all directions. In contrast with the dramatic scenery is the quiet life of Faroese locals and the peaceful atmosphere everywhere. Because of its lack of fame, the country has very few tourists, which keeps even the “busy” trails fairly crowd-free.
You’ll be spoiled with options for where to elope – waterfalls, cliffs, beaches, lakes, and mountains are all fantastic options. And if you love seeing wildlife, especially sea birds (like puffins), this is a great place for you!Â
Inter-island travel is much easier now that there are sea tunnels connecting the land. A few places still require a ferry to reach, but that can be part of your fun elopement adventure! As for getting to the Faroe Islands, you’ll need to fly into the country’s sole airport, Vagar. Arriving from the U.S. takes a little more effort than most European destinations because there are only a few airlines that make the trip. However, it’s totally worth it if you’re looking to elope at a place with incredible scenery and no crowds!
More on the Faroe Islands:
- Photos from a real Faroe Islands adventure elopement
- Faroe Islands elopement photographer + planner packages
North Wales, UK
North Wales is called the “adventure capital of Europe,” and I think it’s a fantastic place to elope. If you’re looking for a place that offers lots of activities to include in your adventure elopement, Wales is the hidden gem you didn’t know you needed! Explore ancient castles, kayak in beautiful lakes, swim in chilly rivers, climb mountains, cliff jump into the sea, or hike scenic trails. Or, if you’re looking for a slower pace, cozy up with a cup of tea in a glamping Airbnb and enjoy all the countryside has to offer.
To arrive by plane, you can fly into Cardiff (Wales’ largest airport), Liverpool, Manchester, or London and rent a car or take train transportation. If you’re up for more exploring, enjoy your honeymoon in any number of beautiful British destinations like the storybook villages of the Cotswolds, Cornwall’s vibrant coasts, or the Lake District’s scenic mountains.
Dolomites, Italy
If you’re craving impressive mountains for your European elopement adventure, the Dolomites area is for you. The Italian Alps are full of rugged peaks, hiking trails of all difficulties, vibrant alpine lakes, and beautiful flower-filled meadows. The food in the area is also absolutely fantastic – a farm fresh mix of Italian and Austrian cuisines.
For something unique, stay in a rifugio, hike-in mountain lodging that serves high quality meals and generally has spectacular views. The hospitality and overall experience is something you’ll never forget!
Continue your adventure with other destinations within easy distance of the Dolomites. You could take a honeymoon at places nearby, or continue the celebration with a multi-day elopement! Only 1.5 to 3 hours from the Italian Alps is Venice, one of the most romantic and scenic cities in Europe. Imagine spending your wedding day exploring the epic mountains and then wrapping up your elopement the next day by strolling the historic streets of Venice and relaxing on a gondola ride. So amazing!
Or, head over the border into Austria to enjoy more charming villages and scenic views. If you don’t mind traveling a little farther, you could add Lake Como, Tuscany, or even sunny southern Italy spots like the Amalfi Coast or Sicily to your elopement experience.
More on the Dolomites:
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Isle of Skye is certainly a famous destination for elopements, and for good reason! The beauty and magic of Scotland come together in this gorgeous area. It is a popular spot for eloping couples as well as travelers, but you can still find some quieter areas that are both beautiful and off-the-beaten-path.
Magical forest glens, breathtaking cliff views, rocky beaches, and cozy lodging are a few of the reasons Isle of Skye is an amazing place to elope in Europe. Just be prepared for rain and wind, even in the dryer summer months!
You can easily get to Isle of Skye now that there is a bridge connecting it to the mainland. Arrive by plane in Inverness (distance) or Edinburgh (distance), or take a scenic train ride from London. If you’re from the United States, driving on the left side of the road can feel a bit intimidating. But it truly is worth it to rent a car so you can see all the incredible scenery at your own pace.
Or, you could head over to some of Scotland’s many other islands that also offer beautiful landscapes and quintessential Scottish culture. The Orkney Islands, Outer Hebrides, and Isle of Islay (pronounced “eye-la”) are fantastic options!
Ready to plan your European elopement?
Hey, I’m Julie — I’d love to help you craft an elopement day full of peace, enjoying nature, and deep connection with each other and document every moment! 📸
Most couples lack the time and expertise to plan an epic elopement day. And that’s why I’m here to help you create a meaningful celebration with ease. ✨
