Elope in Europe: Best elopement destinations
Elopement Europe: Best Places to Elope in 2025
You’ve probably seen a bunch of those articles where people just list elopement destinations without giving any helpful information or their unique perspective on elopements. Well, I would like to think this isn’t one of them.
For starters, as you probably know, Europe is a massive continent, meaning you should most likely wear a sweater in the fjords of Northern Scandinavia, while on the white sand beaches of Mediterranean coast, it’s best to elope wearing an elegant summer dress. In this blog post, I will introduce my favorite locations in Europe to exchange vows and explain why some areas are my favorites for intimate elopements. I excluded places that feel too commercial for me, for example Santorini, Greece. This article will also cover the best spots for elopement photography in these unique locations, perfect for creating your dream wedding.
In the end you’ll find my Europe Elopement Packages. But let’s first answer the question: why do I think your experience is more important than the elopement location?
Why do i think this elopement guide is different?
Updated August 23rd, 2024.
The best elopement locations
Table of contents
Everything you need to know about eloping in europe
When you look at your photos, I want you to see that story. The story of how you promised each other the rest of your lives, the love you felt, the connection, the great adventures you embarked on together on this day. If you feel it at the moment, you will feel it when looking at the photos. That's what matters most to me.
If you're anything like me, you've seen so many beautiful locations for elopements, but sometimes you wonder how genuine those places are. As an elopement photographer, I want pictures that show the places as they are, without people clone-stamped out (because the last thing the two of you would like would be to line up behind a group of people to take a picture at a place that looks secluded on Instagram).
perfect elopement locations vs your memories
Let me explain: I can create the ideal Instagram image on a mountaintop by positioning you perfectly and provoking laughter to capture “an emotional moment.” But when you look back at the photo, you’ll only recall the silly joke I told and the discomfort of being posed in that manner.
I don’t want any of that for you. Instead, I want you to be yourselves and focus on the experience, the moments, and the memories in the making. We can still climb that mountain together or find a spot by the lake. But they aren’t backdrops for a photo; they are the settings for your story. So, I promise we won’t do anything just for a photo. We will do it for the experience and to capture authentic moments through photography.
Why Memories are so important
As long as I’ve been an elopement photographer, I’ve thought that your memories of your elopement day are more important than the photos. Instead of taking inspiration from those awesome shots you see of couples on Instagram or Pinterest, I want you to think mostly about one thing: how do you want to feel about each other when you look at your wedding photography?
What do you want to remember?
Why is your experience more important than the elopement destination?
What really matters
Options for an adventurous elopement in the Faroe Islands:
- Gásadalur Village & Múlafossur Waterfall: Gásadalur, surrounded by mountains, and the nearby Múlafossur Waterfall, which plunges into the ocean, provide a serene and magical backdrop for your vows.
- Saksun: Saksun, with its turf-roofed houses and tidal lagoon, offers a secluded and intimate connection with nature.
- Tindhólmur: Tindhólmur is an uninhabited islet with dramatic peaks and panoramic views, perfect for a surreal and secluded elopement.
Faroe Islands: Secret location for europe elopement
Less-known locations for a romantic elopement:
- Veggen, Lofoten: Veggen, a hidden peak in Lofoten, offers panoramic views of Ballstad and the Vestfjord, with a sunset or sunrise ceremony that feels dreamlike.
- Steinetinden, Lofoten: Steinetinden, near Tromsø, offers a scenic hike with panoramic views of fjords, mountains, and islands, creating a stunning backdrop for your vows.
- Lovatnet, Southern Norway: Lovatnet, with its emerald waters reflecting mountain peaks, offers a serene, magical setting for your elopement, enhanced by nearby waterfalls like Ramnefjellsfossen
Norway: A hidden gem along elopement locations
Some example locations in Italy:
- Dolomites Mountains: The Dolomites in Northern Italy offer a stunning alpine paradise, with dramatic peaks like Cadini di Misurina providing a secluded, breathtaking setting for your vows.
- Olive Groves of Umbria: Umbria’s olive groves and vineyards provide a peaceful, enchanting setting, offering a quieter alternative to Tuscany for your elopement.
- Gole dell’Alcantara, Sicily: Gole dell’Alcantara’s basalt canyons near Mount Etna create a stunning natural cathedral for a unique and intimate ceremony.
Italy: One of most popular elopement destinations
The most popular places to elope in Europe
Destination elopement locations in Europe
Hidden Treasures for Your Swiss Elopement:
- Lago di Saoseo, Val Poschiavo: Lago di Saoseo, a hidden gem in the Swiss Alps, offers a tranquil setting with its azure waters and surrounding forest, perfect for a peaceful elopement.
- Flims, Graubünden: Flims in Graubünden offers serene lakes, alpine meadows, and turquoise Lake Cauma, making it an ideal spot for an adventurous and intimate elopement.
- Lac de Taney, Valais: Lac de Taney in Valais, surrounded by alpine meadows and mountains, offers privacy and rustic charm, perfect for an intimate, secluded elopement.
Switzerland: A dream location for destination wedding
Less-known locations for your Icelandic elopement ceremony:
- Stokksnes, Southeast Iceland: Stokksnes, with its dramatic black sands and the majestic Vestrahorn mountain, offers a breathtaking and quiet coastal setting for your vows.
- Hellulaug Hot Spring, Westfjords: Hellulaug, a natural hot spring in the Westfjords, offers a serene, secluded setting for your post-ceremony celebration.
- Fauskasandur Black Sand Beach, East Iceland: Fauskasandur’s vast black sand beach, set against the Atlantic, offers privacy and breathtaking beauty for your elopement.
Iceland: Unique place to have a destination wedding
Hidden Gems for Your Scottish Elopement Ceremony:
- Rannoch Moor, Central Highlands: Rannoch Moor, with its rugged mountains and serene lochs, offers an intimate, off-the-beaten-path location for a secluded elopement
- Sandwood Bay, Sutherland: Sandwood Bay, a remote beach in northern Scotland, offers golden sands and rugged cliffs, providing true intimacy for your ceremony.
- Kilmartin Glen, Argyll: Kilmartin Glen, with its ancient stone circles and standing stones, offers a mystical and historic setting for an elopement rich in heritage.
Scotland: One of the best elopement locations
Less-known locations for intimate moments in Finland:
- Ukko-Koli, Koli National Park: Ukko-Koli, the highest peak in eastern Finland, offers sweeping views of Lake Pielinen and rugged wilderness, perfect for a nature-filled elopement.
- Oulanka National Park: Oulanka National Park’s canyon, surrounded by cliffs and a flowing river, provides a peaceful, private setting for an intimate elopement.
- Archipelago Sea, Turku: Turku’s Archipelago Sea, with its thousands of islands, offers secluded islets perfect for a quiet and intimate ceremony by the water.
Finland: quiet forests and Natural beauty
If you want to truly feel present, there’s no better place than the north. Places like Lofoten, the Faroe Islands, or Lapland are entirely at the mercy of the elements. There, nature’s force set the rhythm, and we humans are only a tiny piece of it all. And you can feel this deep in your soul when you stand by the wild sea or at one of the silent lakes when you travel through vast open spaces and explore nature’s barren, raw beauty in the north. It’s not just a romantic getaway with amazing landscapes. It is the best way to empty your mind of the ordinary and let your everyday stress fade away. It makes us see what’s really important in life, and everything else simply falls away.
And to me, this indescribable focus on the things that really matter makes these places in the north the ideal location for your elopement photography. In that vast, majestic landscape far from big cities, it is as if for the moment everything was focusing on you. And it’s just the two of you.
Why do I think Northern Europe is the best intimate elopement destination?
How to elope in Europe
The weather in the north can add a unique touch to your elopement photography, making each moment feel authentic and adventurous. I love the north through the wind and weather. Soft summer light, foggy autumn mornings, stormy winds, and rain - all of it feels part of the magic. In fact, I love the north not despite but also because of its weather. Grey skies and a bit of rain can make a day all the more memorable than a “perfectly” blue sky and sun. It adds to the realness. To the feeling of adventure. The spirit of the north.
The north makes it more memorable
While the world keeps evolving, things move at an ever quicker pace, and so many people move to bigger cities (usually that means southwards); there’s something strikingly different about those harder-to-reach rural places. It’s the places where the landscapes have been the same for centuries. The unique landscapes of the north enhance elopement photography, making the convenience that people are seeking elsewhere insignificant there. Getting somewhere quickly doesn’t matter when the journey itself is worth it, not the destination. Life itself feels more honest and genuine. The secluded nature of the north enhances elopement photography, making it easier to feel present for each other.
Everything feels more genuine
IT'S EASIER TO FEEL TRULY PRESENT FOR EACH OTHER
Are you trying to find best countries to elope? I believe most couples trying to find the best places to elope are not just looking for epic scenery. Let me tell you, the perfect elopement destination isn’t probably the one you immediately find on Google search. That is because those places often get crowded, and even though you think the beautiful waterfalls are secluded, it turns out that there are cafés and souvenirs sold next to those stunning landmarks. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with it, but it’s probably not the experience you’re hoping for when you dream about your wedding destination.
the best time to Elope in Europe
Whenever I announce my new elopement location, I’ll explain the best option for that specific European country. In short, some countries are easier than others, and sometimes, it’s more convenient to have a symbolic ceremony. Also, sometimes having a symbolic ceremony will allow you to have the perfect ceremony location and, thanks to that, an even more meaningful elopement day. And if I’m completely honest, the most moving, personal ceremonies I’ve witnessed were the ones without an officiant, with the couple reading their vows to one another without scripts.
Even if you sign your marriage license in your home country, it doesn’t mean that that date has to be your anniversary. You can get your license signed in your home state’s courthouse and then experience once-in-a-lifetime destination elopement in one of the Europe’s most perfect destinations. The timing of your elopement can significantly affect the quality of your photography, capturing the best light and scenery for your special day.
If you have a specific country in your mind and I haven’t announced an elopement experience there yet you would love to have your intimate wedding, hit me a message and let’s see how can we make it happen.
Should we get legally married in Europe or have a symbolic elopement ceremony?
Elopement ceremony tips
how to elope in Europe
I’ve experienced it so many times, couples want to elope in a specific place, but as they don’t have the experience of our climate, they won’t be here at the best time of the year. To help with that, I decided to turn the process around and offer elopements at select locations in the north of Europe on set dates throughout the year as full-day or multi-day experiences.
But answer the question; it indeed depends on the location. Winter elopement in Scandinavia’s coldest time of the year can be cold and dark, especially if you’re not used to being outside at freezing temperatures. But only a few months later, the days are much warmer, and there’s usually plenty of natural light, which makes the experience much better for your elopement photography.
On the other hand, knowing what part of Scandinavia to elope to in summer, you won’t see any mosquitos or tourist crowds, and you get to experience the hidden gems of Scandinavian countries - which is perfect for your Europe elopement.
What is the best time of the year to elope in the North of Europe?
about me
Your elopement ceremony can be customized to highlight the specialness of your union. From bringing in elements from local cultures, such as traditional music or clothing, to symbolic rituals like handfasting ceremonies and tree planting, there are so many ways you can make it uniquely yours. Personalizing your European-based nuptials will create an unforgettable experience that is rooted in all aspects of love’s journey together.
You could write custom vows for one another, too! Showcase culture through food options during your day. If possible, simply adding personal touches with these sorts of cultural nods adds authenticity and depth to the event overall. Lastly, incorporating any sort of meaningful activity into this already momentous occasion will complete what has been created, expressing devotion while at a lasting place to remember for years down the line.
After the booking, I'll send you more ideas how to to customize your European elopement ceremony, but if you have specific questions about ceremonies, just hit me a message!
How do you personalize your elopement ceremony for a truly unique experience?
Making things unique as you
Elopement ceremony tips
Norway wedding packages
- When you look at your photos, I want you to see that story. The story of how you promised each other the rest of your lives, the love you felt, the connection, the great adventures you embarked on together on this day. If you feel it in the moment, you will feel in when looking at the photos. That’s what matters most to me.
Always included in your Europe elopement packages:
My Philosophy: Experience over photos
- Personalized consultations and planning support, helping you with everything from choosing locations and activities to creating timelines, packing lists, ceremony ideas, and recommending trusted vendors.
- The 60+ Page Experience Over Photos-Guide is packed with valuable tips and insights to guide you through every step of your elopement journey
- As a trail runner and orienteerer, I’m there to help with location scouting, possible permit research, unique finds on accommodations and hidden gems.
Unlimited recourses and help
- I have a decade of documentary photography experience. I know what elements help you remember how everything felt and how to build a story of your trip.
- I'm the only elopement photographer in Scandinavia who has won the World's biggest wedding photo competition, Junebug Best of the Best, twice: 2023 and 2019.
- With no photo limits, I carefully select and edit each shot in high resolution. Every package includes at least 40 images per hour, personal printing rights, and a secure online gallery with unlimited downloads, ensuring your memories are preserved beautifully.
Award-winning art & a Decade of documentary experience
What couples say
+ Coverage from 5 hours, Half Day, Full Day, to 2-3 Days by me.
+ Explore anywhere in Europe, including the mountainous sceneries and breathtaking coastal views, to find the perfect spot for your elopement.
+ A personalized Experience Over Photos Guide with my Exclusive 60+ Page Guide, Checklist, and resources to help you with locations, vendors, permits, timeline creation and everything that you might need for an unforgettable experience.
+ All your stunning moments and heart-warming photos in a secured & private online gallery
+ Sneak Peeks in 48 hours or less.
+ Travel & lodging fees all included for anywhere in Europe
Starting at 5,800 €
(Ranges between 5,800 – 11,800 €)
Europe elopement packages pricing
Elopement package cost
Why your experience matters
From multi day experiences to essentials
I know it’s hard to decide with all the European elopement locations, especially when considering the marriage laws. I would recommend that you first think about what elements draw you in and then start considering if you would like to get officially married or if the symbolic ceremony will be a more intimate and personal choice for you. I wouldn’t leave out, for example, Switzerland, even though officially eloping there is most likely impossible for you.
For couples looking for an elopement destination in Europe, Denmark is an excellent option due to its relaxed marriage laws. Other popular options include Italy, Austria, and Iceland. For those seeking something unique, there are places like Montenegro, Slovenia, Faroe Islands, or even the Isle of Skye in Scotland. These tips can also enhance the quality of your elopement photography, ensuring that your special moments are beautifully captured.
What is the easiest place to elope in Europe?
frequently asked questions
Looking for elopement packages europe? Experience your adventure elopement with European elopement photographer
Absolutely! First, I’m 100% sure that an elopement is the most intimate and significant way to honor your relationship and celebrate the beginning of your life together. Making it personal is so important that the day feels like you.
Second, I will suggest accommodation options, activities, and ceremony places and assist you in creating an unforgettable experience, but the focus is always on you. The final decisions and choices are yours to make for your special day. My packages include options for elopement photography, ensuring every moment is beautifully captured.
Do you help us plan our dream day?
I have limited availability on my calendar for à la carte elopements, but I would love to make it happen. Contact me, and let’s see how it can be done!
We are planning to elope elsewhere, but we love your approach and style. Can you come there?
I offer elopement photography at select locations in Europe on set dates throughout the year as full day or multi-day experiences. If you’re unsure why I do this, please read this first.
I’ll announce my new destinations first to my mailing list and two days after that to Instagram. To ensure your experience will be the best possible, every elopement destination will have limited availability between 2-3 elopement experiences.
Join my mailing list to get started and drop me a message whenever you feel like.
I saw you had a destinations page on your website. What does it mean? Do you offer european elopement packages?
Absolutely! But remember, inviting guests into your elopement may slightly alter its essence. In such situations, I'd recommend planning a multi-day elopement, allowing you to savor those intimate moments with your partner while celebrating with your loved ones.
Additionally, if you choose to weave in friends or family into this special occasion, they must resonate with your unconventional approach. Ensure they understand this isn't about grand wedding traditions but rather a tailored celebration that mirrors the unique tapestry of your bond.
Can we elope with family?
fun facts & deep thoughts
how i shoot
my work
get to know me
Hey, I'm Jaakko. I'm a European adventure elopement photographer based in Finland.
A few years ago, I married my wife pretty traditionally. At the time, it felt like the best decision. However, I didn’t quite understand how emotional the day would feel and how hard it was to be 100% myself. We didn’t get a meaningful experience as a couple because we were self-conscious in front of crowds and cared too much about what everyone else was doing. It’s easy to say now that because both my wife and I are all about experience, we should’ve eloped.
So, I want to help couples learn from my experience and understand that they are allowed to plan a day that is just for them and about their love.
Europe Elopement photographer
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Do you have questions, ideas, inquiries? Excited about eloping and want to get started planning? Want me to capture your elopement elsewhere in the world?
Drop me a line, and let's chat. I cannot wait to hear from you!
Dreaming to elope in EUrope? Let's Make it Happen!
