Planning a wedding at home can feel like a never-ending stress-fest – guest lists, colour schemes, and Aunt Carol complaining about the buffet. So why not ditch the drama and swap it for sunshine?
Getting married abroad means saying “I do” somewhere incredible, whether that’s Santorini cliffs, Tuscan vineyards, or barefoot on a Maldives beach. Sunshine, romance, and photos you will cherish forever – sounds like a win to us.
Best Wedding Destinations
Italy
Italy is basically the ultimate romance hub. You’ve got Tuscany vineyards, the Amalfi Coast’s jaw-dropping cliffs, Lake Como with George Clooney vibes, and Venice’s gondolas. Pasta, prosecco, and a backdrop straight out of a movie – what’s not to love?
Tie the knot on Amalfi Coast cliffs, where pastel buildings and lemon terraces frame your “I do,” or say it lakeside in Sorrento overlooking the Bay of Naples. Some hotels offer elegant, wedding-ready properties near Sorrento and Lake Garda, plus romantic venues near the Amalfi towns. Hilton Sorrento Palace overlooking the bay of Naples or Villa Flori right on Lake Como are great choices for accommodation.
Greece
Greece brings the whitewashed magic. Santorini sunsets are practically sponsored by Instagram, while Mykonos brings that glamorous beach-party vibe. Just imagine saying “I do” with those blue-domed churches in the background. Iconic.
For cliffside magic in Santorini, say your vows at Dana Villas with its infinity views over the caldera, or choose the rustic-chic Venetsanos Winery, where vineyard terraces meet ocean sunsets. The intimate Santorini Secret Suites & Spa, with private plunge pools and Oia views is an exceptional choice.
France
France turns your wedding into a wine-soaked fairytale. Paris rooftops? Provence lavender fields? A château where you feel like royalty? Done. Bonus points if someone shouts “Vive l’amour!” as you kiss.
Want true fairytale vibes? Say “I do” in the lavender fields of Provence, or book a rooftop ceremony with Eiffel Tower views in Paris. BRACH PARIS has stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and unusual, beautiful decor.
Croatia
Croatia is like a secret level unlocked. Dubrovnik’s medieval walls, Split’s old charm, and turquoise Adriatic views make you feel like you’re marrying in a fantasy series – minus the dragons.
Walk down the aisle behind medieval fortress walls in coastal Dubrovnik, or sail off to a quiet seaside chapel near Split. Local planners often offer authentic charm and scenic views to make your big day as special as can be. Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik offer breathtaking views of the Adriatic and Dubrovnik Old Town.
Turkey
Turkey offers those golden beaches and luxury vibes with a side of history. Imagine tying the knot overlooking the Med before feasting on delicious Turkish food. Affordable glam at its best.
Options include dreamy beach ceremonies in Dalaman, or the turquoise-coast romance of Antalya’s luxury resorts. TUI offers full wedding packages and sensational resorts like the all inclusive, ultra-luxurious Paloma Finesse Side —think swim-up rooms and a private beach.
Mauritius
Mauritius is a total paradise. Think palm-fringed beaches, turquoise lagoons, and luxury resorts that practically do all the wedding planning for you. Sunset vows never looked so good.
Picture a ceremony on sugar-soft sand or among bright tropical gardens. Top venues include the serene Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden and the elegant Le Morne Brabant, both lush and romantic. Recommended resorts are the Riu Palace Mauritius and Riu Turquoise, both offering full-service wedding packages with seaside charm.
Thailand
Thailand brings the perfect mix of dreamy beaches and exotic charm. From Phuket’s sandy shores to Chiang Mai’s temples, it’s as much adventure as it is romance.
For something exotic, picture temple blessings or beachside vows at private resorts. Top venues include a twilight ceremony on Phuket’s crystalline beaches and intimate garden weddings at luxurious resorts in Khao Lak. TUI offers gorgeous wedding packages at the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa.
Maldives
Maldives is honeymoon and wedding all rolled into one. Picture overwater villas, crystal-clear seas, and barefoot ceremonies on tiny private islands. Talk about starting married life in style.
Picture overwater pavilions and barefoot beach ceremonies—Maldives is all about that unforgettable first step together by the turquoise sea. We would recommend Riu Palace Maldivas set on an uninhabited island or Riu Atoll on a private island, both offer stunning places to relax before and after your wedding.
Barbados
Barbados is a Caribbean beauty where the rhythm of steel drums meets golden sands. Say your vows with rum punch in hand and a sunset to remember.
Here, beaches lined with palm trees and Caribbean breezes lead the show. Think elegant plantation gardens or sunsets on the sand—not to mention, some resorts in this region offer full-day wedding packages with local flair. Stay at The Sands Barbados or Sea Breeze Beach House by Ocean Hotels, both set on a white-sand beach next to the lively St Lawrence Gap.
St Lucia
St Lucia is the definition of tropical drama – those Piton mountains rising out of the sea are a jaw-dropping wedding backdrop. Throw in luxury resorts and you’re sorted.
For drama and romance, the towering Pitons provide a majestic volcanic backdrop. Venue options range from hillside resorts to beachside gazebos. Top resorts often provide on-site wedding planners to handle every delicate detail. Check out Royalton Hideaway Saint Lucia or Royalton St Lucia for luxurious stays in Smugglers Cove area, both are a perfect wedding venue.
Bali
Bali is the ultimate tropical escape. Waterfalls, rice terraces, temples, and beaches – the island has everything. It’s no wonder it’s been crowned the most romantic spot in the world.
For the ultimate tropical snap, say yes under a ceremonial arch on a quiet beach or atop a rice-terraced hill in Ubud. Bali’s romantic magic is real—it’s even crowned the Most Romantic Destination of 2024. Set in lush tropical greenery on the edge of Tjampuhan Valley, Pita Maha Resort & Spa is a great choice of hotel when saying “I Do” in Bali.
The Handy Bit
Booking your dream wedding through TUI, On the Beach, or easyJet holidays keeps things simple. You’ll get flights, hotels, baggage, and sometimes transfers wrapped into one stress-free package, plus ATOL protection. Perfect for couples who’d rather focus on vows than logistics.
Check the legal side. Every country has different marriage rules, from paperwork to residency requirements. Don’t just assume your UK wedding rules apply!
Plan around the weather. Tropical paradise? Great—unless it’s monsoon season. Do a little research so you don’t end up saying “I do” under a downpour.
Hire a local planner if you can. They’ll know the venues, paperwork, and best suppliers, saving you from logistical nightmares and Google Translate disasters.
Think about your guests. Flying them out is one thing, but also consider accommodation, transfers, and how easy the location is to reach.
Budget smartly. A wedding abroad can be cheaper, but flights, hotels, and extras add up fast. Always leave wiggle room for surprises.
Visit before the big day if possible. Nothing beats seeing the venue, tasting the food, and meeting suppliers face-to-face so you’re not guessing.
Pack smart. Wedding dresses, suits, and even small décor items may not travel well. Use garment bags, carry essentials onboard, and check airline baggage rules.
At the end of the day, your wedding is about the two of you – but why not make it unforgettable for everyone else too? Whether you’re dreaming of Caribbean beaches in Barbados, fiery sunsets in St Lucia, or a castle in France, a wedding abroad takes the magic up a notch. Less stress, more sunshine, and a backdrop that’ll blow a grey UK registry office out the water.
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