Dreaming of saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, a picturesque view behind you, or at a charming villa in Italy?
If so, you’re not alone. Destination weddings have become a popular choice for couples who want more than just a wedding day; they want an unforgettable experience.
But what is a destination wedding, and how is it different from a traditional celebration?
Looking for the perfect place to say I do? At The Wedding Travel Company, we have a range of wedding packages abroad to make every couple's dream come true.
A destination wedding is a wedding that takes place in a location away from the couple’s hometown, often in a scenic, significant, or travel-worthy place that requires guests to journey and typically stay overnight (or longer).
While that often means a dreamy beach wedding or an all-inclusive trip, a destination wedding could just as easily happen a few hours away in a charming town or a sentimental spot.
Think Santorini, Cyprus, or the Amalfi Coast. They're perfect for couples who want a unique cultural backdrop or a built-in honeymoon destination.
A destination wedding is an experience, not just a day.
Unlike traditional weddings that might last only a few hours, destination weddings often unfold over multiple days and can become a holiday with your guests. From welcome dinners and group trips to sunset beach parties and post-wedding brunches, the celebration becomes a full itinerary of memorable moments, not just a ceremony and reception.
It is also a great opportunity for a smaller, more intimate wedding. Travel naturally narrows down the guest list to close friends and family. Instead of quick chats with 150 guests, you can often enjoy meaningful time with each person there.
Destination weddings can come with significant cost savings. With fewer guests and bundled packages offered by resorts or venues, many couples find they can have a stunning cheap wedding abroad that comes well within budget. Not to mention the convenience of a built-in honeymoon. Since you are already in a beautiful destination, you might as well extend your stay after the wedding to relax and celebrate privately. It’s an easy way to transition from hosting duties to honeymoon bliss without repacking or hopping on another flight.
Finally, there’s the undeniable appeal of stunning scenery. Whether it's a white-sand beach, a cliffside chapel or a vineyard in Tuscany, destination weddings offer breathtaking backdrops that elevate the entire experience and make for unforgettable photos.
One of the most exciting parts of planning a destination wedding is choosing where in the world to say “I do.”
For many couples, nothing says romance like the sound of waves and the feel of sand underfoot. Weddings in Cyprus, a sun-drenched Mediterranean gem, offering golden beaches, historic charm, over 300 days of sunshine a year, all with the added benefit of straightforward legal requirements for getting married.
For those drawn to a more lively vibe, Ibiza blends natural beauty with a touch of bohemian glamour. Beyond its famous nightlife, the island is home to serene beaches, luxury villas, and hidden coves perfect for a romantic ceremony.
If you’re dreaming of a more far-flung paradise, Mauritius weddings offer pristine white sands, turquoise lagoons, and lush tropical scenery. Located in the Indian Ocean, it’s ideal for couples seeking a peaceful, exotic escape.
Prefer cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and old-world charm? Some of Europe’s most romantic cities also make unforgettable wedding destinations. Malta, with its sun-soaked stone buildings, ancient fortresses, and sweeping sea views, offers a unique blend of Mediterranean warmth and historical richness. Similarly, Croatian weddings create a magical atmosphere with medieval walls, Adriatic waters and a touch of Game of Thrones drama.
With its winding canals, gondola rides, and Renaissance architecture, celebrating your wedding day in Venice feels like a fairytale come to life. Whether you’re planning a lavish celebration in a historic palazzo or a quiet elopement on a hidden bridge, Venice brings romance at every turn.
Skiathos weddings, one of Greece’s lesser-known islands, are perfect for laid-back beach vibe with postcard views. It gives that unmistakable Greek charm without the crowds of Santorini or the madness of Mykonos. It’s an idyllic setting for a relaxed yet breathtaking destination wedding.
Lake Garda, glamorous, yes, but still surprisingly peaceful in the right corners, offers a more refined, luxurious take on the hidden gem. While it’s well known in celebrity circles, it still feels like a secret escape with elegant villas surrounded by dramatic mountain views. Whether you arrive by boat or say your vows at a centuries-old villa, Lake Garda delivers a serious wow-factor with timeless romance and your wedding photos will speak for themselves.
Before you fall in love with a location, make sure you understand what’s required to get legally married there. Every country (and sometimes even specific regions) has its own rules. Some may require a certain period of residency, specific documents like birth certificates or affidavits, official translations, or government-appointed officiants.
If it sounds like too much hassle, don’t panic. Many couples opt for a symbolic ceremony abroad and take care of the legal paperwork at home either before or after. That way, you still get the destination experience without the stress of bureaucracy.
One of the most important aspects of a destination wedding is making it as easy as possible for your guests. Travel takes time and planning, so be sure to send out save-the-dates 8–12 months in advance, especially if your wedding falls during peak travel seasons. Include travel details, recommended airports, accommodation options, and a general rundown of any pre- or post-wedding events.
While destination weddings can often be more affordable than traditional weddings, it’s still important to budget your wedding carefully. Beyond the venue and ceremony itself, make sure to account for:
Flights and accommodation
Travel insurance
Wedding packages or venue rental fees
Group meals, welcome events, or excursions
Decor, attire transport, and additional vendors
How much do destination weddings cost?
The cost of a destination wedding can range from under £10,000 for a simple celebration to over £80,000 for larger, multi-day events, depending on location, guest count, and overall scale. Popular European destinations often average around £10,000 for the basics, but couples should also factor in flights, accommodation, vendor fees, and extras like a planner or travel insurance to budget realistically.
How far in advance should you plan?
Start planning 12–18 months ahead, especially for international weddings or peak seasons. Read our blog post on the perfect planning timeline for your destination wedding for more helpful tips!
What if guests can’t come?
It will be likely that some guests may not be able to make it to your destination wedding but they can definitely still get involved. Livestream the ceremony, host a post-wedding celebration back home, or send personal thank-you gifts.
Here at The Wedding Travel Company, we’re here to answer any queries or concerns about weddings abroad. Whether you’re not sure which wedding package is right for you or you need help choosing a venue, get in touch with our team, and we’ll be on hand to help.
For more on destination weddings, take a look at some of our other blogs:
The Best 2025 Destination Wedding Locations
What Makes A Destination Wedding Stress Free
Why Getting Married Abroad Might Be The Best Decision You’ll Ever Mak
