If you’re thinking of planning a destination wedding and have your heart set on tying the knot abroad, the first thing you need to consider is location which is why we have collated the best places to get married overseas.

The idea of sunshine, a warmer climate and a wedding that lasts longer than a day is the lure that attracts many. Even after travel expenses the cost of a destination wedding can be cheaper than getting married in the UK but of course you could naturally blow the budget and go for a luxurious wedding extravaganza in the sun-kissed country of your dreams (we will let you decide on that one!)

Where to get Married Abroad in 2025

We take a look at the top destinations UK couples should consider when looking at getting married abroad and answer your FAQ’s on each with the help from expert destination wedding planners. So where could you get married abroad from the UK?

Top places to consider;

Ibiza

Only a couple of hours away by plane Ibiza is one of the most popular wedding destinations amongst UK couples and it’s easy to see why with stunning beaches, iconic sunsets and a unique relaxed vibe. Marina from ‘The Ibiza Wedding Planner‘ explains the info you need to know about this sought-after wedding location.

When to get married in Ibiza

“Ibiza is an island with exceptional weather conditions, the months of June, July or September are popular amongst couples but weddings in Ibiza are also beautiful in April, May and October. In these months you could potentially find better venue prices and cheaper travel costs for guests.”

View | Stunning Wedding Venues in Ibiza here

How to get married in Ibiza

“For most UK couples it is usually easier to have a symbolic wedding in Ibiza and arrange all the legal papers back in the UK prior to heading abroad. This way you are legally married at home.

If you want to get married in a church, couples can sort all the religious papers through their own parish church and the bishop will send them ready to be signed in Ibiza. Once married you can then take the papers to your parish church and it is completed legally in the UK.” The Ibiza Wedding Planner offers an exclusive service covering the entire process including all the little details and different aspects of a wedding.

Read more | Getting Married in Ibiza

Santorini

Majestic blue seas with clear sun-kissed skies, Santorini provides the most romantic backdrop for destination weddings, a desirable setting amongst many couples wishing to exchange vows.

UK couples can legally marry in Santorini, the process is straightforward and the Marriage Certificate is valid in the UK.. A stay of at least one working day prior to the wedding is essential to sign paperwork but there’s so much to see here it’s worth extending your stay.

When to get married in Santorini

For clear blue skies June to September is best, it’s worth noting July and August will get very hot and to enjoy outdoor ceremonies you may want to wait until the sun is beginning to set, which is a marvel in itself.

What makes Santorini a great place to get married?

Nothing can be more romantic than watching the sunset with the sea in full view and cute white-washed houses adorning the cliff side. Santorini offers breathtaking views unlike anywhere else in the world with gorgeous contemporary outdoor terraces ready for you to exchange vows.

View | stunning Wedding Venues in Santorini here.

Italy

Historical marvels, breathtaking vineyards, vibrant cities and secluded natural spots, Italy really does have it all. Some favourite wedding locations in Italy include; Lake Como, Florence, Tuscany, Rome, Sicily & Umbria.

UK couples can legally marry in Italy as long as the correct paperwork is obtained beforehand, this can be started from 6 months prior to the wedding day. Each area has differing stipulations, so it is important to check with your planner on procedures.

View | stunning Wedding Venues in Italy here.

When to get married in Italy
With the scope of options available, destination weddings in Italy are perfect all year round. Alfresco summer weddings are suitable April until early September, it’s worth noting August can get up to 30 degrees with high humidity. Winters don’t tend to drop below freezing and the colder seasons allow the many incredible Italian venues  to host wonderous wedding celebrations.

What makes Italy a great place to get married?

Italy is easily accessible to UK couples and their guests with only a short flight time. The country has so much to offer, whether your style lies with 14th century villas and castles or modern terraces overlooking Italian coastlines. Local Italian cuisine and quality wines are a given and it’s reliable summertime make outdoor ceremonies a certainty.

Read more | Getting Married in Italy

France

The weather, the food, the wine, the sights, the variety of landscapes and the countless options when it comes to venues from castles and farmhouses, to seaside retreats and endless valley views, altogether makes France the perfect place to say ‘I do’. Lucy Till offers her wedding planning advice on getting married in France;

“You can get married in France but not without going through some red tape. Firstly, couples need to have a home in France or to have been living in France for 30 days and provide a breadth of documents. Due to the residency restrictions, most couples choose to get married in their own country and come to France for a religious or symbolic ceremony.”

When to get married in France

“I recommend mid-May to mid October when the weather is warm. For couples looking to get married in front of a background of lavender, the season is from the end of June to mid-July.”

What are your favourite venues?

“It’s a difficult question as so many venues here are gems, but my current top three are: Château de Grimaldi, Le Mas de la Rose, and Chateau d’Estoublon for different reasons. Château de Grimaldi has impressive ruins, an onsite chapel, a beautiful castle for your family and friends and sprawling grounds. Le Mas de la Rose is a transformed sheep barn, though you wouldn’t guess that now and boasts arguably one of the prettiest pools in the area. Château d’Estoublon is luxury incarnate. And as I can’t resist a fourth, Domaine de Fontenille, with it’s michelin-starred catering, impeccable lawns and tasteful decor.”

Wedding Planning in France

“I’m an ex-makeup artist from Texas turned business language coach, turned Wedding Planner. I have a strong sense of style and I’m passionate about organising weddings. I love design, anticipating trends, finding new suppliers, and maintaining long relationships with trusted partners. I work together with couples throughout the planning process. They let me know what they want, I recommend the suppliers that correspond best to this style, and then we work together to finalise all the details.” Lucy Till

View | stunning Wedding Venues in France here.

Spain

Featuring private Spanish country houses, exclusive luxury villas and contemporary seafront platforms, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to your dream destination wedding in Spain. Be it trendy Marbella, bustling Barcelona, the breathtaking Benahavis mountains or the costa Brava coast, Spain has a lot to offer for weddings of enviable beauty.

International Wedding Planners Matthew Oliver shares his insight;

How to get married in Spain

“For UK couples to partake in a Spanish legal civil ceremony when neither party is of Spanish citizenship, either the bride or groom-to-be needs to be a legal resident in Spain for at least the previous 2 years. Many opt for a blessing or symbolic service during their wedding in Spain whilst undertaking the marriage legalities in the UK prior. Religious marriages however are recognised as legal under Spanish law.”

View | stunning Wedding Venues in Spain here.

When to get married in Spain

“Couples should choose a time of year that suits them, ideally not too hot or too cold and a weekend where yes the venue is available but also works for them. I wouldn’t say to avoid any times of year as it is possible to get married on bank holidays. Some of our couples specifically choose long weekends so their guests don’t need to take as many days off work.”

Why Choose Spain?

An average flight time of only 2 hours from the UK is an idyllic destination proximity and of course there’s the abundance of sunshine, ideal for outdoor ceremonies and romantic alfresco dining. Tasty cuisine, plenty of Rioja and the relaxed culture is destined to bring a joyous atmosphere to your big day. Gaze out over mesmerising seafronts, marvel in the wondrous nature and be charmed by the Medieval backdrops.

Read more | Getting Married in Spain

Cyprus

UK nationals can get married very easily with minimal paperwork in Cyprus making the procedure simpler than other countries. Wedding planners Vicki and Maria of Tie the Knot offer their advice on getting married in Cyprus.

When to get married in Cyprus?
“The best months to get married are from the beginning of April to the end of October. With the lovely weather and amazing atmosphere around Cyprus, as its packed with tourists and everything gets very lively.”

What makes Cyprus a great place to get married?

“Cyprus is the birthplace of Aphrodite it’s the island of love. What better reason than this to get married in Cyprus? Lovely weather and some stunning unique wedding venues but what makes Cyprus such a popular place to get married is the cost of a wedding. It’s great value for money and couples can have an amazing wedding and a holiday together costing them less than what it would cost in their home country. Also, the Cypriot cuisine can please every palette as we have some tasty dishes for people to try.”

View | stunning Wedding Venues in Cyprus here.

Wedding Planning in Cyprus

‘Tie the Knot’ was established back in 2014 offering a more personal and professional service. We are an honest and transparent planning service. With Tie the Knot you’re not just a file or a number you’re our new friend! Our mission is to ensure that their dream wedding in Cyprus is an enjoyable, easy and memorable experience from the planning stages to the big day.”

Read more | Getting Married in Cyprus

Greece

Sun-drenched weddings at dreamy coastal resorts and nature retreats make Greece a winning location amongst many UK couples. It could be the warm Greek hospitability or the romantic backdrops but one thing is for sure the country has perfect settings for your big day. There’s the stylish Santorini, Mykonos and Ios with their spectacular sea views or the rustic charm of Crete where you can surround yourself in vineyards and olive trees.

UK couples can legally marry in Greece but a wedding planner is recommended to ensure all of the documentation meets requirements, paperwork needs to include an Apostille stamp and to be translated.

When to get married in Greece

If you desire clear blue skies then June to September is best, it’s worth noting July and August can get very hot. Great for toping up your tan but outdoor ceremonies during these months should be arranged later in the day which will give you the chance to watch the gorgeous Grecian sunset!

View | stunning Wedding Venues in Greece here.

Portugal

Portugal, with its stunning landscapes, historic charm, and warm hospitality, is an increasingly popular destination for couples seeking a romantic wedding abroad.

How to Get Married in Portugal

To legally marry in Portugal, non-residents must adhere to specific requirements. This includes providing a valid passport, birth certificate, and a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI). The CNI is obtainable from your home country’s consulate or embassy. Additionally, couples may need to provide proof of residency and, if applicable, divorce or widowhood certificates.

When to Get Married in Portugal

Spring is a delightful time for a wedding in Portugal. The weather is mild, and the countryside blooms with vibrant flowers. Consider venues in regions like Sintra, known for its romantic palaces and lush gardens, for a fairytale-like celebration. Summer in Portugal is synonymous with clear skies and warm temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor celebrations. Algarve’s beaches, Lisbon’s historic quarters, or Porto’s riverside provide splendid backdrops for a sun-soaked wedding.

Fall brings a different charm to Portugal, with vineyards turning golden and temperatures remaining pleasant. The Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards, offers a picturesque setting for an autumn celebration.

What Makes Portugal a Great Place to Get Married?

Portugal boasts a diverse and breathtaking landscape. From the rugged coastline of the Algarve to the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, every region offers a unique and picturesque setting for your special day. Steeped in history, and its cities are adorned with stunning architecture. Choose a historic venue in Lisbon, like the São Jorge Castle, or a charming estate in Sintra for a wedding surrounded by centuries of cultural richness.

Portugal provides an enchanting backdrop for couples seeking a destination wedding filled with romance, history, and cultural richness. From the legalities of obtaining marriage documents to selecting the perfect venue and choosing the ideal season, Portugal offers a seamless and memorable experience for couples embarking on the journey of a lifetime.

View stunning Wedding Venues in Portugal here.

Malta

Historical Maltese architecture, sandy beaches and luxurious churches make Malta a great place for a destination wedding. Getting married in Malta is recognised legally back in the UK and all over the world, wedding Planner Sarah Young shares her knowledge on planning a wedding here.

When to get married in Malta

“Between May and October, Malta’s weather is gorgeous, making it the ideal time to get married. However, weddings in December are also extremely popular. The festive cheer and holiday spirit can help give your special day that extra bit of Christmas magic!”

What makes Malta a great place to get married?

“The warm sun, the azure sea, the unique historic venues one can get married in, the fact we all speak English and most importantly, we drive on the same side as the British.

My favourite venues are those that offer stunning sea-views, they just create such a breath-taking atmosphere, it’s incredible! On the other hand historic venues, especially those listed with Unesco, help give a wedding a touch of refined class. Palazzo’s dating back hundreds of years, as well as Castellos, are definitely not something to be missed either!”

Wedding Planning in Malta

“I have planned well over 950 events and weddings. It takes a dedicated and passionate team to ensure that each detail is planned to perfection for the happy couples’ weddings! We cater to a number of events, from intimate church weddings to grand events set in historic venues. Our goal isn’t just to make fabulous events, but to create memories. We take pride in making your dream into reality so that you and your guests can enjoy every minute of your event or wedding!” Sarah Young

Gibraltar

Onboard a 5 star super yacht, nestled in botanical gardens or perched on top of the rock overlooking the Mediterranean sea, Gibraltar offers an adventure filled destination choice.

What makes Gibraltar a great place to get married?

Gibraltar is British overseas Territory allowing UK couples to legally marry here through a simple process. A hidden gem of 2.6 square miles featuring stunning panoramic views from the rock along with an abundance of history and even encounters with cheeky wild monkeys. Gibraltar has the most stunning outlooks over the Mediterranean sea and there are no language barriers here, you can even use British pound sterling. For an adventurous wedding destination only a few hours flight from the UK, Gibraltar is a quiet gem worth shouting about.

View | stunning Wedding Venues in Gibraltar here.

When to get married in Gibraltar

Gibraltar’s seasons mirror that of the UK’s however it offers a glorious Mediterranean climate with dry summers alongside lots of sunshine. June to September would be ideal for an outdoor ceremony, during July and August you can expect the temperature to hit 28 degrees offering lots of sunshine.

Read more | Getting Married in Gibraltar

Morocco

If you fancy a trend focused destination wedding, Morocco is certainly going to excite from eclectic Marrakech to the picturesque Atlas mountains, this Country is certainly equipped for the most magical of wedding celebrations.

Why Choose Morocco?

There’s so much to explore from souks & markets to pristine beaches and mountain ranges, you’ll be spoilt for choice. If you desire a boho-chic wedding, Moroccan style will sit perfectly as it is well know for it’s bohemian decor, bold accent colours, fascinating patterns and dramatic prints. Wedding Planner’s Boutique Souk give us their insight;

Can UK couples get married in Morocco?

“The weddings we plan for international couples are all symbolic rather than legal. Legal requirements from UK citizens are very complex and it is more advisable to complete the legalities in your country of residence beforehand.”

What are your favourite venues?

“We plan many of our weddings at La Mamounia, the prestigious grand dame hotel of Marrakech. Its gardens date from the 12th century and are a spectacular setting for ceremonies and receptions. The Kasbah Bab Ourika is also very special, very rustic with amazing views of the Atlas Mountains.”

View | stunning Wedding Venues in Morocco here.

When to get married in Morocco

“The most popular months are May and June, September and October – as the temperatures are lovely and warm, facilitating outdoor dining. However we host weddings all year round!” Boutique Souk

Read more | Getting Married in Morocco

Mexico

Mexico is a stunning wedding destination choice, with its colourful culture, amazing beaches and glorious weather it’s no wonder it’s a popular choice for UK couples. Angelina Cardenas, a destination wedding planner based in Mexico gives us her advice.

“Civil ceremonies taken place in Mexico will legally stand in the UK if the correct procedures have been taken, religious ceremonies are more complex to arrange here and are not legally binding. Civil ceremonies can take place outside of the registry office, if you imagine yourself walking through white sand up the aisle this can be arranged in Mexico.”

When to get married in Mexico

“There are several regions in Mexico ideal for a stunning destination wedding; Tulum, Holbox, Isla Mujeres & Merida Yucatan. With a flight time from the UK at just over 10 hours Mexico has a lot to offer when it comes to destination weddings including all inclusive packages in divine dream like resorts.

  • Tulum: Feb – May and November to Dec 20th. Summer time is pretty hot and after Dec 20th holiday season.
  • Holbox: January – May. Summer is hot and fall is windy
  • Isla Mujeres: Feb – May and November to Dec 20th. Summer time is pretty hot and after Dec 20th holiday season.
  • Merida Yucatan: January – April and Nov to Dec 20th.”

View | stunning Wedding Venues in Mexico here.

Wedding planning in Mexico

“I like to hear my clients requests, I envision weekend celebrations and always provide the best advice according to what clients are looking for by preparing budgets and generally making things happen for them. My aim is to create and produce big celebration weddings for an experience to never forget.”Angelina Cardenas

Read more | Getting Married in Mexico

Bali

A long-haul tropical treat, Bali can host the most unique and spectacular wedding celebrations. The Indonesian island is pure paradise with a side of adventure, ready to impress your guests.

How to get married in Bali

Only religious ceremonies are permitted in Bali, you must both be of the same religion and your marriage must be registered post ceremony to be legal. For paperwork requirements it is highly recommended to discuss details with an expert Bali wedding planner.

When to get married in Bali

You certainly want to avoid the rainy season, so ideally the months of May to August are best to enjoy the gorgeous sunny climate and the many beaches the island has to offer.

View | stunning Wedding Venues in Bali here.