Choosing a wedding destination is about more than finding a beautiful view. You want a place that fits your style, feels special to your guests, and makes planning manageable.
Some couples picture exchanging vows beside turquoise water, while others prefer historic streets, Mediterranean villas, or mountain scenery. The right choice also depends on the season, travel costs, and how easily guests can reach the venue.
The best places to get married in 2026 include Ko Samui, Marseille, Marrakesh, the Portuguese Riviera, Sydney, Riviera Maya, the Athens Riviera, Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, Lake Como, and Queenstown.
10 Best Places to Get Married
1. Ko Samui, Thailand
Ko Samui is a natural choice for couples dreaming of a tropical wedding. Palm-lined beaches, private villas, and ocean-view resorts create a relaxed setting, while island trips and waterfalls give guests more to enjoy between celebrations.
- Best for: Intimate beach weddings
- Time needed: 4–6 days
- Best time: December–April
- Travel tip: Check flight connections and ensure your venue has a wet-weather backup.
2. Marseille, France
Marseille combines Mediterranean views, a historic harbor, and excellent regional food. Couples can celebrate by the coast or explore nearby Provence for countryside estates and vineyard settings.
- Best for: Coastal celebrations with French character
- Time needed: 3–5 days
- Best time: April–June or September–October
- Travel tip: For summer weddings, arrange shade, plenty of water, and comfortable seating for outdoor guests.
3. Marrakesh, Morocco
Marrakesh offers an atmosphere unlike a typical beach destination. Traditional riads, tiled courtyards, and lush gardens provide distinctive venues, while the Atlas Mountains and Agafay Desert offer options for day trips and special events.
- Best for: Unique architecture and cultural atmosphere
- Time needed: 3–5 days
- Best time: March–May or September–October
- Travel tip: Avoid the hottest months for outdoor ceremonies and check evening temperatures for desert events.
4. Portuguese Riviera, Portugal
The Portuguese Riviera, including Cascais and the surroundings of Sintra, combines sandy beaches, elegant properties, and easy access to Lisbon. It suits couples who want a coastal celebration with restaurants, sightseeing, and accommodation nearby.
- Best for: Relaxed European coastal weddings
- Time needed: 3–5 days
- Best time: May–June or September
- Travel tip: Plan transfers between the airport, hotels, and venue before sending guest invitations.
5. Sydney, Australia
Sydney is a strong option for couples who want beach scenery without giving up city comforts. Coastal venues, harbor views, varied hotels, and a lively dining scene make it easy to build a wedding trip around several activities.
- Best for: Beach weddings with city amenities
- Time needed: 4–6 days
- Best time: March–May or September–November
- Travel tip: Australia’s seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Couples generally need to lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage at least one month before the wedding.
6. Riviera Maya, Mexico
Riviera Maya offers white-sand beaches, jungle surroundings, and resorts with wedding packages. All-inclusive options can simplify arrangements, while private venues may suit couples planning a more personalized celebration.
- Best for: Tropical weddings and resort packages
- Time needed: 4–6 days
- Best time: May–June or November, depending on local weather
- Travel tip: Check what packages include, from guest-room requirements to airport transfers and ceremony fees.
7. Athens Riviera, Greece
The Athens Riviera combines seaside venues with access to Athens’ historic landmarks. Guests can enjoy coastal restaurants and water activities, then explore the city without needing a separate island stay.
- Best for: Waterfront weddings with cultural outings
- Time needed: 3–5 days
- Best time: April–May or September–October
- Travel tip: Confirm legal paperwork with local authorities before booking nonrefundable services.
8. Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
The Bay of Kotor pairs calm Adriatic water with steep mountains and historic waterfront towns. Kotor and Perast offer a distinctive backdrop for couples who want Mediterranean scenery in a less familiar destination.
- Best for: Historic waterfront weddings
- Time needed: 3–5 days
- Best time: May–June or September–October
- Travel tip: Compare flights to Tivat and check whether your venue requires boat transfers.
9. Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como is known for elegant villas, waterfront gardens, and mountain views reflected across the lake. Its charming towns and boat connections make it appealing for couples planning a refined European wedding with scenic photo opportunities.
- Best for: Elegant lakeside weddings
- Time needed: 3–5 days
- Best time: May–June or September
- Travel tip: Ask about boat transfers, venue access, and indoor alternatives in case of rain.
10. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown offers a dramatic alternative to beach weddings, with mountain peaks, Lake Wakatipu, and outdoor venues overlooking the landscape. Couples can also plan scenic drives, boat trips, and other activities for guests staying a few extra days.
- Best for: Mountain-view and outdoor weddings
- Time needed: 4–6 days
- Best time: December–March for warmer weather
- Travel tip: New Zealand’s seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere, so check local weather and arrange an indoor backup.
Destination Wedding Planning Tips
- Set a complete budget. Include the venue, catering, photography, travel, accommodation, transport, taxes, and service fees.
- Check marriage laws early. Document, translation, witness, and residency requirements vary by destination. Confirm them with official authorities.
- Plan for your guests. Share dates early and consider flight connections, hotel choices, accessibility, and local transport.
- Have a backup plan. Ask about indoor ceremony options, cancellation policies, and insurance exclusions. If legal arrangements abroad are complicated, you can marry at home and hold a symbolic ceremony overseas.
FAQs
What is the best month for a destination wedding?
It depends on the location. Spring and early autumn are often suitable for Mediterranean destinations, while tropical locations have their own rainy and dry seasons. Check local conditions before setting the date.
Which destination is easiest for wedding guests?
Places with convenient flights, nearby accommodation, and reliable local transport are often simpler to organize. The best choice also depends on where your guests are traveling from.
Can you legally get married abroad?
Yes, many destinations allow foreign couples to marry, but requirements vary. Confirm the necessary documents and registration process with local authorities before making final bookings.
Conclusion
The best place to get married is one that suits your budget, travel plans, and vision for the day. Choose Ko Samui or Riviera Maya for tropical beaches, Marseille or Portugal for coastal charm, or Lake Como and Queenstown for striking scenery. Before booking, compare seasonal weather, guest access, total costs, and legal requirements.
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Joe Yogerst is an experienced American travel writer and author who writes for elvorixx, sharing insights on America’s most beautiful places and travel destinations. With decades of experience exploring and writing about destinations, he brings real knowledge to every story.