Imagine exchanging your vows on a sun-drenched cliffside, with the ocean waves serenading your love story, or walking down an aisle made of lavender fields, under the golden light of the setting sun. For couples seeking to turn their wedding day into an unforgettable adventure, a destination wedding may just be an ideal option. Whether it is a glamorous European château or a secluded island, the world is filled with enchanting locations for you to say “I do.” Here are 10 of the most romantic destinations where you can make your wedding dreams come true.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
For couples seeking an intimate wedding nestled between dramatic cliffs and the azure Mediterranean Sea, the Amalfi Coast is a fairytale come true. With its vibrant villages like Positano and Ravello, breathtaking views, and luxurious venues, it is perfect for a stylish and amorous affair your guests will remember down the line. Think backdrops that include beautiful terraced gardens and lemon-scented breezes.
Best time for a wedding here: Late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October)
Maui, Hawaii
Should you and your boo both have a love for nature, Maui may just be it, particularly with its diverse mix of white sand beaches, majestic waterfalls, and lush tropical landscapes. Regardless if you wish to exchange your vows on a golden sand beach or atop a cliff with the waves crashing below, the island’s warm aloha spirit and sensational scenery make it an idyllic wedding destination.
Best time for a wedding here: Spring (April-May) or autumn (September-November)
Provence, France
With lavender fields, charming villages, and rolling vineyards to boot, Provence is a haven for couples looking for a rustic ambiance on their special day. There is just something magical about making a lifetime commitment to your other half in a centuries-old château, with the lovely scent of lavender in the air and the soft Provençal sunlight casting a golden glow over your holy matrimony.
Best time for a wedding here: Late spring to early summer (May-July)
Bali, Indonesia
When most people think Bali, tropical romance comes to mind. Serene, exotic, and absolutely ethereal, Bali’s teeming greenery, cultural richness, and abundance of luxurious resorts provide an ideal setting for a wedding that feels like a true escape. Options are aplenty, whether that means walking down the aisle in a beachfront ceremony, or taking things up a notch with a spiritual rite in one of the island’s sacred temples.
Best time for a wedding here: Dry season (April-October)
Queenstown, New Zealand
There is nothing quite like exchanging vows in the adventure capital of the world. Queenstown offers more than just adrenaline-pumping activities – it also affords one of the most picturesque wedding destinations on the planet. With its snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and gorgeous vineyards, this South Island town is a no-brainer for couples who appreciate natural beauty.
Best time for a wedding here: Summer (December-February) or autumn (March-May)
Koh Samui, Thailand
Thailand’s island of Koh Samui is a tropical oasis in the Gulf of Siam, setting the stage for an exotic wedding with its powdery-soft shores, vibrant palm trees, lavish resorts, scenic viewpoints, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you envision a barefoot ceremony with toes in the sand or an opulent affair in a private villa draped in orchids, Koh Samui can be intimate, sophisticated, and serene all at the same time.
Best time for a wedding here: Dry season (December-April)
Santorini, Greece
Santorini, with its white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets is the epitome of romance. The island’s cliff, which overlook the sparkling Aegean Sea, is nothing but a picture-perfect backdrop for a wedding. Couples can take their pick from cliffside venues or quaint chapels, all with panoramic views guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
Best time for a wedding here: Late spring (April-May) or early autumn (September-October)
Lake Como, Italy
A favourite amongst celebrities and royalty, Lake Como is the pinnacle of elegance and refinement. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, this glamorous Italian destination is known for its extravagant villas, manicured gardens, and shimmering waters. Couples can even arrive at their wedding venue by boat, adding a touch of old-world charm while the natural beauty of the lake provides a remarkable scene to remember.
Best time for a wedding here: Late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September)
Maldives
The Maldives may be calling your name if your dream nuptials involve upscale island vibes straight out of a fairytale. Think pristine turquoise waters, powdery sand beaches, and overwater bungalows where you can dive straight into the ocean from your private deck. In this secluded paradise, romance is in every ripple of the sea, every breeze, and every breathtaking sunset — it is indeed a little slice of heaven.
Best time for a wedding here: Dry season (November-April)
Seville, Spain
Seville, with its lively culture, Moorish architecture, and sun-drenched plazas, may not be the most typical of destination wedding locations, but it is not any less stunning. The city’s historical palaces, such as the outstanding Alcázar, may just make you feel like a real-life princess, while the flamenco-infused atmosphere adds passion and drama to your big day. Its warm climate also bumps up the romance and festive spirit.
Best time for a wedding here: Spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October)
Featured image: Guanfranco via Unsplash