The World’s Most Breathtaking Spots For A Destination Wedding
Weddings are extraordinary days, but the thought and planning that goes towards making them successful can be overwhelming. From choosing the right dress, to choosing the right cake and even picking out the perfect ring, weddings are no doubt high-stress events. Surely you’ll want your wedding venue to be perfect too, right?
For those who’d rather have a destination wedding, choosing the right location can be rather daunting, given the multitude of options, and the inability to visit each one in person. Well wouldn’t you know, today’s your lucky day, as we’ve compiled a list of all the top destination wedding locations right here in one spot.
Near or far, the world is full of beautiful, stunning, and eclectic options for those aching to travel and see something new as part of their wedding ceremony…
Nassau, The Bahamas
With over 700 islands, you can choose to personalize your wedding experience at the Bahamas. You could choose to rent a private island or hold your wedding at a mega-resort. There are also a lot of activities you could plan for your guests. The Bahamas is home to Atlantis, which is located on Paradise Island.
Enjoy scuba diving around Andos Island (the third-largest barrier reef in the world), touring the historic homes of Nassau, or strolling along its white sand beaches.
The Amalfi Coast, Italy
The iconic scenery of the Amalfi Coast makes it a beautiful wedding backdrop, with a winding clifftop road that moves across the Italian coastline, giving you dramatic views of the sea. An itinerary for your destination wedding at this paradise would be filled with one-of-a-kind experiences, making your wedding unforgettable.
Hosting a wedding on the coast of Italy would be simply amazing, not to mention romantic. Plus all the wine and delicious food!
Park City, Utah, USA
With the majestic mountain ranges everyone knows Utah for, Park City can also be your ideal wedding destination if you fancy getting hitched in the great outdoors! The pictures just don’t do it justice, either. You really need to be here, among the peaceful nature, to appreciate the vast greatness of the outdoors.
Park City can offer you two love birds everything you desire for a picturesque wedding day, and it’s especially accessible.
Dublin, Ireland
Rolling hills, oceanside cliffs, lush gardens, country manors, and grand castles: what more do you need your fairy tale wedding backdrop to feature? The natural beauty of the city of Dublin and the hospitality of its people, as well as its traditions, make Ireland one of the perfect ‘I do’ locations.
Ireland also gives you an astonishing setting for your walk down the aisle, from its beautiful cliffs to its Edwardian-style church and the grandeur of a 15th-century castle.
Rome, Italy
A mixture of old-world culture with a modern metropolis makes the Eternal City of Rome a unique wedding destination. Rome offers more artistic monuments than almost any city globally, acting as a perfect backdrop for romance with its churches and ancient ruins; its amazing wine and authentic selection of Italian food cannot be left out.
After all, you know what they say; when in Rome…. So go ahead and plan your big day in this historic and picturesque city.
Tuscany, Italy
Green valleys, vineyards, olive groves, and 15th-century art and architecture make a great wedding destination backdrop, especially if nature and history is your thing. Its laid-back vibe keeps everyone at ease and removes the wedding jitters and tensions that might be rising. You will definitely wow your guests with this gorgeous destination.
In Tuscany, you will also find some of Europe’s best cuisines and wine, so don’t hold back and enjoy the delectable dishes.
Zihuatanejo, Mexico
If you would rather enjoy a quieter, low-key, and secluded location away from packed cities and tourist crowds like you’ll find in many other major cities, then Zihuatanejo is the place to be. Its colorful sunsets and unspoiled beaches bring a level of authenticity to your wedding that would have been unimaginable.
We haven’t even mentioned the rich culture and cuisine yet. You have your pick of luxurious resorts and a variety of hotels as venues.
Bangkok, Thailand
Do you want to travel to the far east for a beautiful wedding? Commonly described by locals as Sanuk or “fun,” the ornate palaces, wild reefs, divine cuisine, and rich coral reef all make Thailand an exotic gem. Its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, luxurious resorts, and huge metropolis all make Thailand a dream wedding destination backdrop.
Get ready for all of your dreams to come true at this gorgeous place. Plus, airfare here is generally cheaper than similar locations like Japan.
The Fiji Islands
With over 300 islands, Fiji is an alluring tropical paradise. For couples seeking serenity, glamorous culture, pristine blue waters, and unspoiled beaches for their vows, then the ‘Soft Coral Capital of the World’ is perfect. Your wedding itinerary for Fiji is no doubt going to leave your guests in awe.
If you want your wedding day to seem like a magical dream, grab a bottle of water and head to Fiji. Just remember the sunscreen!
Nevis Island
Often referred to as the ‘Queen of the Caribees,’ the island of Nevis is a perfect destination wedding location for nature lovers. Home to some of the best-preserved beaches, coral reefs, and rainforests in the Caribbean, Nevis is a beautiful wedding backdrop. If you have always wanted to travel to the Caribbean, consider this amazing island.
Your itinerary could include horse-back riding, hiking, and stargazing. But that’s only the beginning of the many unique experiences you could try.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Like other Caribbean islands, Puerto Rico has its own fair share of gorgeous beaches, friendly locals, and resorts. It also sports a fine blend of cultural and historic sites as well as traditional beach locations, making it perfect for both beach-going and non-beach-going guests. This island is like a home away from home.
Make sure you plan a time that is not during hurricane season, though, to ensure both safety and the success of your wedding.
Turks and Caicos
Surely you have heard of this tropical destination, right? Unlike other Caribbean islands, this collection of 40 islands is less developed and possesses an intimate feel. Both islands are surrounded by natural reefs; thus, the waters are clean, calm, and full of life. The islands provide you with chic indoor and outdoor locations to hold your nuptials.
Plus, it is another jaw-dropping island that everyone will want to visit. Because most people know the name, they’ll be excited!
Vail, Colorado, USA
If adventure is what you seek, then the small town of Vail in Colorado is what you need. Located at the foothills of the Vail Mountain, Vail is a winter getaway, so if you are planning a winter wedding, this is where you should be. Your wedding itinerary for this location can be as magical or mysterious as the site.
Vail could include winter sports such as snowboarding, skiing, and even hiking. This venue would give you the white wedding you desire.
Jaco, Costa Rica
Jaco is a stunning island where you will fall in love. Costa Rica is perfect for any couple seeking an equatorial background for their wedding while also retaining their modern-chic tastes. You could choose to be edgy and get married by the side of a volcano or even a beach wedding on sun-baked, white sand beaches.
If you want a green wedding, eco-friendly Costa Rica is perfect for you as well, with a large variety of native plant life.
Cozumel, Mexico
Another Mexican gem among many! The peaceful island of Cozumel is bordered by one of the world’s largest coral reefs, home to a number of wildlife reserves and surrounded by turquoise blue waters, making it perfect for couples, especially those who love nature who are looking to tie the knot in a quiet spot.
Its resorts provide you with on-site wedding planners to help you plan your perfect wedding; people are familiar with awesome weddings in Cozumel and are ready to help.
Los Cabos, Mexico
Cozy hotels, horse trails, sandy beaches, and golf courses: this is an ideal destination wedding location. The beach houses and villas of the city make it a perfect location choice. Its iconic giant rock arch where the deep-blue Pacific waters and the Cortez meet create astonishing waves that just might remind you of your relationship.
You can enjoy a quiet, peaceful dinner just for two or turn things up with some fun night life, which is prevalent in the area.
The Big Island, Hawaii, USA
Hawaii offers a different topography from other islands. As you travel, the landscape varies, providing you with different choices for your wedding backdrop. You have your pick between the Kona coast to the west with its lunar-like landscape or the wet and super lush north and east coasts. Whatever you choose, Hawaii offers.
Waikoloa Village also has stunning resorts featuring authentic luaus, delicious cuisine, and romantic sunsets to suit any wedding.
Blue Harbor, Maine, USA
Blue Harbor is a beach wedding destination, but not in the tropical sense. The United States city of Blue Harbor in Maine is surrounded by golden sand beaches, dark blue waters, and rugged coasts, all of which make it a perfect wedding destination. The harbor gives you seaside chic with an American flair.
Activities include bike riding, kayaking, whale watching, swimming, or visiting the Acadia National Park, which gives your guests a number of options to choose from.
Negril, Jamaica
Let’s forego the same old things and try something new! With its serene beaches, waterfalls, and mountains, Negril, Jamaica gives you a perfect wedding background and long-lasting memories. For sunset weddings, the Negril cliffs and beaches are a good choice, with the Ocho Rios gardens and waterfalls giving you a beautiful backdrop.
Who doesn’t want to travel to Jamaica to say “I love you forever!” to their best friend? Talk about a beautiful wedding destination.
Sea Island, Georgia, USA
Turquoise waters, pristine beaches: what more could you want for your destination wedding? Sea Island, Georgia gives you the same feel as the Caribbean, but without tourists intruding on your private moment. With miles of private beach space, Georgia is a very beautiful location for your destination wedding. Yes, this is all located in the good ol’ U.S. of A.
Basically everything you want, right in your own backyard! And thanks to the warm weather, you’ll probably have sun on your wedding day.
San Francisco, California, USA
San Francisco is an urban setting that gives you more in terms of scenery. Its hills, huge parks, bay-windowed Victorian homes, and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge make San Francisco a destination wedding choice for many couples. Traveling to Southern California has its perks, too, not just for celebs and athletes, but for weather.
In SoCal, it hardly ever rains, which means sunny skies for your big day. In fact, you can basically plan without consideration for rain.
Anguilla, The Caribbean
One majestic spot in the Caribbean that you probably did not consider is Anguilla. Why? Anguilla is regarded as one of the most exclusive spots in the Caribbean, and it is merely 16 miles long and three miles wide. Its upscale resorts, unspoiled scenery, and pristine white beaches all contribute to making it an ideal destination wedding location.
Also known for its hospitality and safety, you are guaranteed that your guests will have a memorable experience here.
Antigua, The Caribbean
With its rich nautical history and 365 beaches to hold your wedding on, it is no surprise that Antigua made it onto an epic wedding destination list. If you want a boat cruise wedding, or if you would rather host your wedding at a high-end, all-inclusive resort, then this is the place to be.
The water here has an amazing shade of blue that will make you fall in love all over again. It also serves as a phenomenal photo backdrop.
Bermuda, The Caribbean
Obviously, anywhere in the Caribbean would be an optimal choice if you are searching for a tropical wedding destination. Despite not being geographically located in the Caribbean, Bermuda shares the same features as other beautiful islands of the Caribbean. Its tranquil pink beaches, iconic pastel-hued houses, and its proper British history make Bermuda a great choice.
Your guests can spend their time scuba diving or golfing on one of the country’s eight golf courses, all with picturesque views.
Little Cayman, The Cayman Islands
Little Cayman is a tropical destination that is to die for! The Cayman Islands have the perfect resources to cater to any personal style and the guest list of each couple. There are a large number of wedding venues within Little Cayman; you can choose to have your wedding in a small resort or a grand five-star hotel.
Your guests can be kept occupied by a wide range of activities offered, including scuba diving, volleyball and golfing, among many others.
Montpelier, Vermont, USA
If you need a back-to-nature, budget-friendly option, then Vermont with its quaint villages and iconic landscapes is definitely a great choice. Its cozy inns are perfect for intimate weddings, while its steep mountains serve as scenic landscape backgrounds for your vows. Maybe you should try a charming bed and breakfast instead of a ritzy, modern hotel.
If that is your style, of course. In fact, if you love history, feel free to tour the land and learn about its rich culture, which is abundant.
Sedona, Arizona, USA
If you want to keep to the mainland and check out something other than ocean views, the stunning desert meets forest scenery of Sedona has made it an increasingly popular wedding destination. At sunset, its red rocks are a perfect backdrop for your wedding ceremony. Your wedding itinerary for Sedona could include hikes and guided tours of Sedona’s “vortexes.”
A trip to Arizona is easy on the budget, too. Plus, with favorable weather nearly all the time, planning is made extremely easy.
Savannah, Georgia, USA
For a traditional, classic wedding, Savannah is just right. With its historic mansions and cobblestone streets, the city provides a wonderful, less expensive but beautiful backdrop for your wedding ceremony. Savannah is a perfect location for a historic fairy tale wedding theme. You can have a big, puffy princess dress paired with gloves and a crown.
Take advantage of that Southern hospitality and the unique look of the place to create a wedding that is special and distinctly you!
Tenerife, Spain
Europe’s tropical paradise, Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. The deep color of its sea and its volcanic landscapes make Tenerife an ideal outdoor destination wedding location. The island and its resorts are easily accessible, with a large range of wedding planners and packages to get you started on planning your big day.
This destination is the perfect tropical getaway in Europe! Plus, from this location, travel to other beautiful cities (perhaps for a honeymoon) is very cheap.
Crete, Greece
Yes, there are multiple Greek destinations you should add to your travel list. Despite being the largest Greek island, Crete has remained a lesser-known destination wedding gem. With a vast number of landscapes to choose from, including its gorgeous pink sand and its beautiful hilltop chapels, Crete has locations that are perfectly suited for any taste and budget.
The language alone will make you fall in love, with its lilting, smooth cadence, and the country is famous for its food as well.
Montezuma, Costa Rica
Many people have always wanted to travel to the tropical area of Costa Rica. Nature lovers get to choose between the rainforests or secluded beaches of Montezuma to host their nuptials. With stunning beach houses, resorts, and palm-fringed beaches, you are guaranteed to have a wedding you will always remember in Montezuma.
Hosting a wedding in Costa Rica will have people talking for years to come, and providing tourism to the area can promote conservation efforts if you play your cards right.
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
When you hear Canada, you probably don’t imagine a seaside town. A small surf town on the western edge of Vancouver Island, Tofino with its extensive system of trails, rugged coastlines, and unmatched natural beauty is an ideal wedding destination. The Wickaninnish Inn offers bespoke wedding packages that include private dining reception or dancing by the fire.
You probably never even thought of Canada as an option, eh? You might be well served to consider a maple-based dessert option at your reception.
Banff, Alberta, Canada
Canada isn’t as boring as it may seem for weddings; check out this Canadian gem. The resort town of Banff resembles a classic fairy tale with its hotel villas and rocky scenery. This luxurious town makes provisions for both mountain weddings as well as a selection of lounges and ballrooms for indoor ceremonies.
The wildlife viewing of the parkland makes a perfect nature wedding backdrop for those interested in a more rural feel for their big day.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini is considered to be a top wedding destination in Europe. Its ocean view, blue skies, and stunning sunsets make it perfect for a wedding ceremony. You could choose to get married down on the coast or in the cliffs that oversee the island’s caldera. Pictures here really speak a thousand words by not saying anything at all, similar to your love.
You might find it hard to pick just one spot in Greece to fall in love, but if you’re looking for the most iconic location in the country, Santorini may be it!
Orlando, Florida, USA
The Disney city of Orlando gives you a Disney-themed fairy tale wedding. You could choose to have your wedding on actual Disney grounds or, as a cheaper option, celebrate in the areas surrounding Disney and head on into Disney World for your celebrations after. Have your first kiss in front of the castle, under the fireworks.
Maybe this sort of scene isn’t for you, but other couples would give almost anything to tie the knot here! And thanks to the popularity of the place, access is easy.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
If safari-themed weddings are your thing, then you can get married on a safari in Tanzania. Yes, it will include everything you have ever dreamed of in a wedding day. Or you could choose to explore the white sand beaches of Zanzibar for a beach-themed wedding if that floats your boat.
Whichever you choose, you are guaranteed that your destination wedding will truly be unique. Go ahead and travel to Tanzania; you will thank us later!
Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
One of the hottest stateside spots for weddings, The Sin City is bound to blow your mind. Thanks to its magnificent ballrooms, luxurious resorts, and fancy hotels, Las Vegas has wedding packages for every taste and budget. You can plan a destination wedding weekend of “sin” for your guests in The Sin City itself.
You will adore roaming the streets like a princess without a care in the world. Pull the slot machine while you’re out on your stroll….
Udaipur, India
The most cultured state in India featuring magnificent forts and monuments, Udaipur is an ideal destination wedding location. The Oberoi Udaivilas, a former palace that was converted into a luxurious wedding resort, is its most popular location. You will adore the rich culture and impressive sights that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.
If the Indian culture interests you and your future spouse, then you should consider hosting your nuptials in Udaipur.
Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA
The charming and magnificent Mackinac Island is located between the Upper and Lower Peninsula near Lake Michigan. Its amazing architectural design provides you with a large choice of indoor wedding venues that include waterfront hotels, Victorian-era mansions, and historic monuments. No cars are allowed, so you will love a horse and carriage ride.
You can also have an outdoor wedding with a view of Lake Michigan. And if you find that carriage rides aren’t for you because of your long dress, don’t worry: the horses are still around for photos!
Loire Valley, France
Loire Valley has everything you need for your perfect destination wedding. Its castles, historic villages, accommodating people, wines, and food give you all you need for a memorable wedding. Your wedding itinerary for Loire Valley could include a wine-tasting tour, Tarte Tatin tasting, and a visit to the Chateau d’Ussé.
This iconic location is said to be the setting for “Sleeping Beauty,” a popular French fairy tale. Is there anything else you really need for your big day?
Lake Placid, New York, USA
Yes, this quiet place is in New York. Far from the city, you can choose to have your wedding outdoors surrounded by nature, or even in a hot air balloon in upstate New York. For a winter wedding, its snowcapped mountains make an absolutely perfect backdrop; you can choose a venue from its chic resorts and luxurious lakeside houses.
If you are a movie buff, you will enjoy this area for other reasons, of course; however, you don’t have to be familiar with the cinema to enjoy this location.
Door County, Wisconsin, USA
If you enjoy the simpler things in life and don’t need all that fancy stuff for your day, this rustic location might be perfect. Located between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County, or the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” offers a beautiful lakeside setting for your nuptials. Its farmlands and wineries offer you a countryside landscape as well as loads of activities for your destination wedding itinerary.
Midwest living is often the most affordable with the most seasons, too! So if you’re trying to stick to a lower budget, this may be a great fit.
Oranjestad, Aruba
As the famous song goes, “Aruba, Jamaica, oh I wanna take ya….” Well, we can just stop there at the very first mention of Aruba. A popular wedding destination, Aruba welcomes couples all year round. Its gorgeous sunshine and sunsets, year-round average temperature, turquoise blue waters, and sandy beaches provide beautiful natural wedding backdrops to tie the knot.
The Beach Boys really like this destination, among others, so if you’re a big fan of the group, there may be some fun significance in choosing Aruba.
Paris, France
A destination wedding list would no doubt be incomplete without mentioning the city of romance itself. With artistic and architectural monuments and lush gardens, Paris no doubt makes for a timeless, chic, and classy wedding backdrop. Choose between a daylight wedding in its lush gardens or a night-themed wedding under the lights of the Eiffel Tower.
If a girl could dream, this would be the place she envisioned. Guys, you might just fantasize about this place too, if we’re being honest.
Batticaloa, Sri Lanka
Located in the Indian Ocean, the stunning landscapes, rainforests, Buddhist runs, and sunset-bathed beaches of Batticaloa, Sri Lanka would no doubt make your wedding as magical as you want it to be. Its wildlife, authentic cuisine, ancient temples, and a stunning view of the ocean make this Sri Lankan city unique.
Make sure you pay attention to the weather patterns and seasons before booking, as heavy rain can hit during certain months of the year.
The French Riviera, France
With around 310-330 days of sunshine per year, the 155km coastline of the French Riveria is an ideal destination wedding location. If you can envision lush forests, sparkling water, and brightly colored flowers at your wedding, you should move this destination to the top of your list. You will not only adore the weather, but also the love in each other’s eyes.
France is just so romantic: oui oui! And thanks to cheap European travel out of both major airports in France, trekking off to a honeymoon will be super budget-friendly.
Sicily, Italy
Featuring Arab castle ruins, Byzantine mosaics, and stunning mountain views surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily is definitely going to make your wedding backdrop unforgettable. You can choose to have a cliffside wedding or even a beach-themed wedding in Sicily, all while enjoying the tepid and relaxing climate of the area.
If you are into the rich culture, delicious cuisine, and historical connection, get ready for the trip of a lifetime. The wedding possibilities are virtually endless with a destination like this one!
Marrakech, Morocco
Have you ever heard of this diamond in the rough? The former imperial city of Morocco, Marrakech with its breathtaking Islamic architecture is definitely a backdrop that would stand out for your special day. Its vibrant colored buildings, exotic cuisine, and sights, as well as its architecture, would no doubt take your breath away.
The love will bring you there, but the culture will have you coming back for more. And with plenty to see and do in town, you could be busy for as long as you’d like.
Lisbon, Portugal
Put your tiara on for this one! Many girls dream of a fairy tale wedding, and choosing Lisbon as your destination wedding location brings your dream to reality. Thanks to hidden beaches, popular seafood, and fairy tale castles, Portugal has something for everyone. Make a choice between a castle-themed wedding or an outdoor sunset wedding.
This wedding destination has it all! You certainly won’t be disappointed, and you’ll have dozens of gorgeous pictures to prove it.
Dubai, UAE
Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and party in the desert? If you want a unique destination, then you should consider Dubai. Famous for quite a number of well-known attractions, luxurious hotels, and beautiful architecture, the Arab city of Dubai provides you with an abundance of venues to choose from for your big day.
Can you imagine getting married among the skyscrapers? This city location is perfect for those aiming for a more modern tone for their big day.
Outer Banks, North Carolina, USA
Outer Banks, North Carolina with its string of unspoiled beaches and barrier islands would have you feeling like you got a private retreat for your wedding. With a view of wild horses, you can choose to say your “I do’s” on the beach, in the beautiful gardens of Roanoke Island, or on the pier.
If the rustic feel is what you are going for, you might have just found your perfect spot. Be conscious of what time of year you book, however, to avoid rain.
Asheville, South Carolina, USA
Get ready for jaw-dropping views at this location. Gorgeous scenery, historical monuments, mountaintop views, and amazing venues: Asheville is perfect for your destination wedding. A four-season destination, you can have your wedding at any time of the year with warm, beautiful weather to accompany. Take your pick in venues, from rustic barns to luxurious hotels.
This wedding venue is another hidden gem in America, and it’s great for those who want a winter wedding without all the snow.
Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Are you a country boy or girl at heart? Do you adore cowboy boots, a hat, and a good ol’ country song? The rich history of Nashville gives you something to look forward to. Thanks to its historic venues, which include the Hermitage Hotel, Houston Station, and Cedarwood estate (can’t forget that!), Nashville offers rich, unmatched history and soul to your nuptials.
Get ready to tie the knot surrounded by all of your favorite things! And of course there’s something to be said for the music.
Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
Do you want to travel from your local town but still stay in the United States? Adventure seekers and luxury lovers would definitely be wowed by New Mexico. Your wedding itinerary could include tours of historic locations, hot air balloon rides, and wine tasting. New Mexico has something for everyone, which will guarantee that your guests have a wonderful time.
It will feel like your home away from home, and thanks to the sublime weather, you’re unlikely to be rained out. Bring sunscreen!
Blönduós, Iceland
If you are looking for an adventure that goes beyond green hills and forests, then Iceland is your match. With snow-covered glaciers, hot springs, and rocky surfaces, Iceland can give you a wedding backdrop that would look like a set of Game of Thrones. And if you love Game of Thrones, then you would love Iceland even more.
If you aren’t one for the cold, you might want to keep looking, though. Even summer can be on the brisk side, especially in wedding clothes.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Who doesn’t want to travel to breathtaking Brazil? With stunning views, which include waterfalls, ancient forests, beaches, and grand cathedrals, Rio is a perfect destination for a bright, bold wedding. Say your vows with a majestic waterfall as your backdrop or even while on a boat ride down the Amazon River.
Whatever you choose, Brazil has got it. The pictures alone will make your guests want to book a plane ticket right now for their own vacation.
Azores, Portugal
Boasting a dramatic landscape, green valleys, caverns, and hot springs: what more do you want for your destination wedding? Azores, Portugal gives you all the nature that you desire, and it is not just perfect for your wedding, but also for your honeymoon. You will want to go back again and again for years to come for anniversaries, too!
Get ready to be the envy of all your friends after sending postcards from this amazing destination. And by getting married and having your honeymoon in the same place, you’ll be budget-friendly.