Destination Wedding Planning Guide: Top 15 Locations
Planning a destination wedding combines the romance of your special day with the adventure of travel. Whether you're dreaming of a beach ceremony at sunset or an elegant castle wedding in Europe, choosing the right location sets the foundation for an unforgettable celebration.
Why Choose a Destination Wedding?
Destination weddings have grown increasingly popular, with nearly 25% of couples now opting to marry away from home. The appeal is clear: intimate gatherings, built-in honeymoons, and stunning backdrops that require minimal decoration.
Key Benefits:
- Smaller, more intimate guest lists (typically 50-80 guests)
- Extended celebration time with loved ones
- Honeymoon and wedding combined
- Unique, memorable experiences for everyone
- Often more cost-effective per guest than traditional weddings
Planning Timeline: 12-18 Months Ahead
18 Months Before:
- Choose your destination
- Set your budget
- Book venue and accommodations
12 Months Before:
- Send save-the-dates
- Research marriage requirements
- Hire local vendors or wedding planner
6 Months Before:
- Finalize guest list
- Arrange travel and accommodations
- Plan pre-wedding activities
3 Months Before:
- Confirm all vendor details
- Submit marriage license paperwork
- Create itinerary for guests
Top 15 Destination Wedding Locations
1. SANTORINI, GREECE
Why Choose It: Iconic white-washed buildings, stunning caldera views, and breathtaking sunsets create a romantic atmosphere unlike anywhere else.
Best Time to Visit: May-October (peak season July-August)
Average Cost: $15,000-$40,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- Civil ceremony required in Greece
- Documents needed 8 weeks before
- Symbolic ceremonies are easier to arrange
Perfect For: Couples seeking dramatic views and Mediterranean elegance
Pro Tip: Book venues in Oia or Imerovigli for the best sunset views, but expect premium pricing.
2. TULUM, MEXICO
Why Choose It: Bohemian beach vibes, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic resorts create a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit: November-April (dry season)
Average Cost: $10,000-$25,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- Blood tests required 2 weeks before
- Four witnesses needed
- Legal process takes 3-5 business days
Perfect For: Free-spirited couples who love beach and jungle settings
Pro Tip: Consider all-inclusive resorts like Dreams Tulum or boutique hotels for smaller, intimate celebrations.
3. BALI, INDONESIA
Why Choose It: Exotic temples, lush rice terraces, luxury villas, and affordable prices make Bali a dream destination.
Best Time to Visit: April-October (dry season)
Average Cost: $8,000-$20,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- Must be married legally in your home country first
- Symbolic ceremonies are common and beautiful
- Religious blessings available
Perfect For: Adventurous couples seeking spiritual and natural beauty
Pro Tip: Ubud offers jungle venues, while Uluwatu provides dramatic clifftop ocean views.
4. TUSCANY, ITALY
Why Choose It: Rolling vineyards, medieval villages, world-class cuisine, and rustic villas embody Italian romance.
Best Time to Visit: May-June, September-October
Average Cost: $20,000-$50,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- Civil ceremony can be legally binding
- Documents required 60 days before
- Residency requirement waived in some towns
Perfect For: Couples who appreciate wine, food, and Old World charm
Pro Tip: Book a villa in Chianti or Val d'Orcia region for authentic Tuscan experience.
5. MAUI, HAWAII, USA
Why Choose It: Stunning beaches, tropical landscapes, and no passport needed for US citizens make Hawaii convenient and beautiful.
Best Time to Visit: April-May, September-November
Average Cost: $15,000-$35,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- No waiting period or blood tests
- License valid for 30 days
- Easy legal process
Perfect For: Couples wanting tropical paradise without international travel
Pro Tip: Wailea and Kapalua offer luxury resorts, while upcountry Maui provides unique farm venues.
6. AMALFI COAST, ITALY
Why Choose It: Dramatic cliffside villages, Mediterranean Sea views, and Italian glamour create unforgettable memories.
Best Time to Visit: May-June, September
Average Cost: $25,000-$60,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- Same as Tuscany
- Positano and Ravello are most popular
Perfect For: Couples seeking luxury and breathtaking coastal scenery
Pro Tip: Villa Cimbrone in Ravello offers one of the world's most stunning ceremony locations.
7. CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO
Why Choose It: Desert meets ocean, luxury resorts, championship golf courses, and vibrant nightlife.
Best Time to Visit: November-May
Average Cost: $12,000-$30,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- Same as other Mexico destinations
- Many all-inclusive resorts handle paperwork
Perfect For: Couples wanting party atmosphere with beautiful beaches
Pro Tip: Sunset Monalisa offers incredible private estate weddings with panoramic views.
8. PROVENCE, FRANCE
Why Choose It: Lavender fields, charming villages, French cuisine, and elegant countryside estates.
Best Time to Visit: June-July (lavender season), September
Average Cost: $25,000-$55,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- Complex legal process (40-day residency)
- Most couples do symbolic ceremonies
- Legal marriage at home recommended
Perfect For: Francophiles seeking romantic countryside elegance
Pro Tip: Book a château or bastide for authentic Provençal experience.
9. COSTA RICA
Why Choose It: Rainforests, volcanoes, beaches, and eco-lodges offer adventure and natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit: December-April (dry season)
Average Cost: $10,000-$25,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- Relatively straightforward process
- Documents needed one month before
- Attorney must be present
Perfect For: Nature-loving, adventurous couples
Pro Tip: Arenal Volcano area or Manuel Antonio beaches offer spectacular backdrops.
10. CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA, USA
Why Choose It: Southern charm, historic architecture, amazing cuisine, and romantic gardens.
Best Time to Visit: March-May, October-November
Average Cost: $18,000-$40,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- 24-hour waiting period after license
- No blood test required
- Simple process
Perfect For: Couples seeking Southern elegance and hospitality
Pro Tip: Historic plantations like Magnolia or Boone Hall offer stunning ceremony sites.
11. BORA BORA, FRENCH POLYNESIA
Why Choose It: Overwater bungalows, turquoise lagoons, and ultimate luxury create paradise on earth.
Best Time to Visit: May-October (dry season)
Average Cost: $30,000-$70,000+ for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- Must be married legally before arrival
- Symbolic ceremonies common
- Many resorts arrange traditional Polynesian blessings
Perfect For: Couples seeking ultimate luxury and seclusion
Pro Tip: Four Seasons and St. Regis offer exceptional wedding packages with overwater venues.
12. IRELAND (COUNTRYSIDE AND CASTLES)
Why Choose It: Ancient castles, emerald landscapes, rich history, and warm Irish hospitality.
Best Time to Visit: May-September
Average Cost: $20,000-$45,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- 3-month notice required
- Documents must be submitted early
- Religious ceremonies readily available
Perfect For: Couples with Irish heritage or castle wedding dreams
Pro Tip: Ashford Castle or Dromoland Castle offer fairytale settings.
13. BARCELONA, SPAIN
Why Choose It: Gaudí architecture, Mediterranean culture, beaches, and vibrant city life.
Best Time to Visit: May-June, September-October
Average Cost: $15,000-$35,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- Complex legal process
- Symbolic ceremonies recommended
- Certificate of capacity to marry needed
Perfect For: Urban couples who love art, culture, and nightlife
Pro Tip: Venues near Park Güell or beachfront locations combine city and sea.
14. JAMAICA
Why Choose It: Reggae vibes, all-inclusive resorts, jerk cuisine, and laid-back Caribbean culture.
Best Time to Visit: November-April
Average Cost: $10,000-$28,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- 24-hour residency requirement
- Simple documentation process
- Many resorts handle everything
Perfect For: Couples wanting easy Caribbean celebration with great music
Pro Tip: Negril's Seven Mile Beach or Montego Bay offer excellent resort options.
15. NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE, USA
Why Choose It: Live music, Southern food, honky-tonks, and unique urban-meets-country vibe.
Best Time to Visit: March-May, September-November
Average Cost: $15,000-$35,000 for 50 guests
Marriage Requirements:
- No waiting period or blood test
- License valid for 30 days
- Extremely simple process
Perfect For: Music-loving couples wanting city celebration with Southern flair
Pro Tip: Book venues in East Nashville or Franklin for charm, or downtown for party atmosphere.
Budget Breakdown: What to Expect
All-Inclusive Resort Package ($10,000-$25,000)
- Venue and ceremony setup
- Reception dinner and drinks
- Coordinator services
- Photography (basic package)
- Flowers and decorations
À La Carte Luxury ($25,000-$60,000+)
- Private venue rental
- Gourmet catering
- Premium open bar
- Professional photography and videography
- Luxury flowers and design
- Entertainment
- Guest accommodations
Budget-Friendly Options ($5,000-$10,000)
- Small intimate ceremony (10-20 guests)
- Simple venue (beach, garden, small restaurant)
- Local vendors
- Minimal decorations
- Shorter reception
Essential Planning Tips
1. Visit Before You Book
If possible, scout your location 12-18 months before the wedding. Photos can be deceiving, and experiencing the venue firsthand prevents surprises.
2. Hire a Local Planner
Destination wedding planners know local vendors, marriage requirements, and can troubleshoot issues when you're not there.
3. Communicate Early and Often
Send save-the-dates 8-12 months in advance. Create a wedding website with travel information, accommodation options, and itinerary details.
4. Understand Total Costs
Factor in travel for yourselves, accommodation, vendor travel fees, tips, and activities for guests.
5. Weather Contingency Plans
Always have a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies. Many venues include indoor options.
6. Travel Insurance
Purchase insurance for yourselves and recommend it to guests. Weather, illness, or other issues can disrupt plans.
7. Legal Requirements
Research marriage legality thoroughly. Some couples opt for legal ceremonies at home and symbolic ceremonies at their destination.
8. Guest Considerations
- Provide accommodation options at various price points
- Plan welcome dinners or activities
- Consider guests' ability to travel and take time off
- Send detailed packing lists
9. Vendor Communication
- Get everything in writing
- Confirm details multiple times
- Have phone numbers for day-of emergencies
- Understand cancellation policies
10. Enjoy the Journey
Destination weddings are about experience, not perfection. Embrace the adventure and unexpected moments.
Read also:
- TOP WEDDING SONGS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE RECEPTION: MUST-HAVE HITS FOR EVERY MOMENT
- DISCUSSING IMPORTANT QUESTIONS BEFORE MARRIAGE
- STRENGTHENING YOUR EMOTIONAL CONNECTION
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Researching Marriage Laws: Requirements vary dramatically by country and can be complex.
Underestimating Costs: Hidden fees, currency exchange, and vendor travel add up quickly.
Choosing Peak Season: Premium pricing and crowded venues can diminish the experience.
Ignoring Time Zones: Consider jet lag for both you and your guests when planning ceremony times.
Overpacking the Schedule: Leave time for relaxation and spontaneous moments.
Forgetting About Guests: Not everyone can afford luxury accommodations or extensive time off.
Final Thoughts
Destination weddings offer incredible opportunities to celebrate your love in extraordinary places. Whether you choose tropical beaches, historic castles, or vineyard estates, the key to success lies in thorough planning, clear communication, and flexibility.
Start by identifying what matters most to you as a couple—intimacy, adventure, luxury, or culture. Then choose a destination that reflects your values and creates the atmosphere you desire. With proper planning and realistic expectations, your destination wedding will become a cherished memory for you and your guests for years to come.
Remember: the location provides the backdrop, but your love story is what makes the day truly special. Choose a place that resonates with your relationship, and everything else will fall into place.
Ready to start planning? Research visa requirements, create a realistic budget, and begin reaching out to venues and planners 18 months before your dream date. Your perfect destination wedding awaits!
