WHERE TO ELOPE (30+ BEST EUROPEAN LOCATIONS FOR YOUR ELOPEMENT & THE TOP UNDERRATED WEDDING LOCATIONS IN EUROPE YOU SHOULD DEFINITELY CONSIDER.
WHERE TO ELOPE IN EUROPE - TABLE OF CONTENTS
Elope in Annecy, France
Elope in Ischia, Italy
Elope in Antibes, France
Elope in Lake Bled, Slovenia
Elope in Tivat, Montenegro
Elope in Galway, Ireland
Elope in Akamas Peninsula, Western Cyprus
Elope in Chefchaouen, Morocco
Elope in Cuenca, Spain
Elope in Venice, Italy
Elope in Rye, East Sussex, England
Elope in Hallstatt, Austria
Elope in Istria, Croatia
Elope in Wurzburg, Germany
Elope in Lake Garda, Italy
Elope in Bologna, Italy
Elope in Lago di Carezza, Italy
Elope in Esterel Mountains, France
Elope in Madeira Island, Portugal
Elope in Istanbul, Turkey
Elope in Algarve, Portugal
Elope in Gruner See, Austria
Elope in Berlin, Germany
Elope in Prague, Czech Republic
Elope in Copenhagen, Denmark
Elope in Elafonissi, Crete
Elope in Lviv, Ukraine
Elope in Hamburg, Germany
Elope in Tallinn, Estonia
Elope in Bucharest, Romania
Elope in Isle of Skye, Scotland
Elope in Faroe Islands
Elope in the Italian Dolomites
Santorini, Greece - This stunning island in the Aegean Sea is known for its white-washed houses, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets. It's the perfect location for a romantic elopement.
Venice, Italy - The city of love and romance, Venice is a popular choice for elopements. You can exchange vows in one of the city's many beautiful churches or gondolas through the canals to say "I do."
Paris, France - The City of Lights is a classic choice for an elopement. From the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris is full of iconic and romantic locations.
Edinburgh, Scotland - The capital of Scotland is a charming and historic city with stunning architecture and beautiful natural surroundings. You can elope at one of the city's many castles or in the countryside.
Iceland - With its rugged landscape and natural beauty, Iceland is a unique and breathtaking location for an elopement. You can exchange vows at a waterfall, in the wilderness, or on a black sand beach.
Prague, Czech Republic - This picturesque city is known for its beautiful castles, churches, and historic streets. It's a perfect location for an elopement with a fairy-tale feel.
Norway - With its fjords, mountains, and forests, Norway is a stunning location for outdoor elopement. You can exchange vows in the countryside or in a picturesque town.
Vienna, Austria - This charming city is known for its classical music and beautiful architecture. You can elope in a historic palace or in one of the city's beautiful gardens.
Amsterdam, Netherlands - This picturesque city is known for its canals, museums, and vibrant culture. You can elope in a beautiful park or exchange vows on a boat sailing through the canals.
Venice, Italy - The city of love and romance, Venice is a popular choice for elopements. You can exchange vows in one of the city's many beautiful churches or gondolas through the canals to say "I do."
There are many other beautiful and underrated locations in Europe that would be perfect for an elopement. Some of these locations include:
The Faroe Islands - These remote islands between Norway and Iceland offer breathtaking landscapes, including waterfalls, cliffs, and fjords.
The Cinque Terre, Italy - This stretch of rugged coastline in Italy offers beautiful beaches and charming villages.
Sintra, Portugal - This historic town near Lisbon is known for its beautiful palaces and gardens.
The Swiss Alps - With their snow-capped peaks and stunning landscapes, the Swiss Alps are a beautiful location for an outdoor elopement.
The Black Forest, Germany - This beautiful region in Germany is known for its forests, waterfalls, and charming towns.
The Azores, Portugal - These remote islands in the Atlantic Ocean offer beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and charming villages.
The Dolomites, Italy - These stunning mountain ranges in Italy offer beautiful views and outdoor activities.
The Loire Valley, France - This region in France is known for its beautiful castles and gardens.
The Isles of Scilly, England - These remote islands off the coast of England offer beautiful beaches, charming villages, and stunning views.
ANNECY, FRANCE
Peaceful and idyllic, the aquamarine waters of Lake Annecy evoke feelings of calm and connectedness within anyone visits, and the grandeur of the Alps rising up behind the lake and surrounding you elevate it to a numinous experience. The old town of Annecy will delight wanderers with its cobbled streets, winding canals and dreamy pastel-colored houses. A wedding on the shore of Lake Annecy will be both elegant and sophisticated. Here you can dip your feet in the water; connect with nature and immortalise this emotional moment.
Ischia, Italy
If you envision escaping to a secluded island for your wedding, Ischia in the bay of Naples could be the destination you’ve been dreaming of. Sun-soaked fishing villages and spa towns sit amongst gorgeous beaches, thermal springs and rocky coves. The air is aromatic from the fragrance of the abundant lemon trees, adding to the exotic atmosphere and ambience of a private island. The ruins of a monumental medieaval castle with glorious chapels, arches and terraces stand on the volcanic rock, and would be a breathtaking place to host an unforgettable Mediterranean wedding.
Antibes, France
The beautiful Cote d’Azur town of Antibes sparkles with all the sophistication and glamour of the French Riviera. A region which inspired creative minds such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Picasso and Coco Chanel, any celebration held here will be prestigious and opulent. The picturesque town is surrounded by golden beaches with views over the azure blue Mediterranean sea. Marry in a glamorous Chateau, or a picturesque chapel on a vineyard estate, where you could toast your union with the region’s internationally renowned wines.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
With its turquoise blue and emerald green waters, idyllic Lake Bled in Banff National Park is the epitome of tranquillity and charm. Snow-capped mountains and glaciers form an evocative backdrop and the view from Bled castle, perched on a precipice above the water, is totally unforgettable. Row a boat on the lake for an intimate experience for two, or host a grand fairy-tale ball on the terrace of a classically styled hotel.
Tivat, Montenegro
With diverse natural beauty, and a blend of historic sites and coastal splendor, Tivat is a true hidden gem in Europe. Consider celebrating in Porto Montenegro, a luxury marina within the town, where you can immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring panoramic views over the glistening Adriatic bay. Soak in picturesque views by hiking to Vrmac’s mountain peak, where the flow of the clear and unpolluted rivers has carved out spectacular canyons, or seek out the neighbouring medieval villages to enter an exquisite time-capsule.
Galway, Ireland
The beautiful harbour city of Galway is one of the best places to marry in Ireland. With its iconic ancient city walls, steeped in tradition and history, and the breathtaking beauty of the Connemara Coast, Galway is a truly romantic and enchanting place to begin your journey into married life. Immerse yourself into the Celtic way of life in the home of melodic folk music, hearty craic and warm Irish hospitality.
Akamas Peninsula, Western Cyprus, GREECE
The Akamas National Park on the western coast of Cyprus features spectacular valleys, ravines and wide sandy bays. Abundant with wildlife, the forests and caves are a treasure-trove of beauty for those longing to explore the nature trails on the peninsula. Most famous is the blue lagoon known as the Baths of Aphrodite. Ancient legend describes how Aphrodite would bathe in this natural spring pool, where she first met her great love, Adonis. An iconic spot for lovers throughout the centuries to forge an everlasting union.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
The mysterious city of Chefchaouen nestles in the Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco. The striking, blue-washed buildings in the old town, said to symbolize the sky and heaven, serve as a reminder to lead a spiritual life. Traditional leather and weaving workshops line the cobbled lanes, and the pretty doorways and balconies make exploring the winding streets on your wedding day a magical experience. With vibrant markets tantalising the senses and the beguiling Sahara desert on your doorstep, Chefchaouen could be the place to begin the adventure of a lifetime.
Cuenca, Spain
For a unique and historic setting, consider Parador de Cuenca, the fascinating Moorish city set in the mountains of East-Central Spain. This location is a hidden gem, with virtually no traffic polluting the unspoilt marvel of the town within the ancient walls. Perched on a limestone spur, it's most famous for its astonishing hanging houses, built right up to the cliff-edge. Explorers will also discover gothic towers, Roman bridges and medieval castle ruins. If you dream of marrying somewhere steeped in history, check out the stunning former monastery, with views out over the forests and rivers below.
Venice, Italy
Venice is synonymous with magic, romance and mystery and its distinctive, timeless charm makes it one of the most beautiful cities in the world for a wedding abroad. With winding canals and famous bridges, historic palazzos and luxurious aristocratic houses lining the water, Venice is a perfect place for lovers to make memories for a lifetime. Imagine arriving by gondola or sailing away together as newlyweds, watching the reflections in the lagoon or gliding along the Grand Canal under the Rialto bridge. For a more secluded spot, consider a short boat ride to one of the nearby islands such as Murano, home to the famous glassblowers, or Burano, with its extraordinary brightly coloured houses. The serenity, sense of history and unusual surroundings would create an unforgettable atmosphere for an elopement or to share with guests.
Rye, East Sussex, England
The charming and quaint town of Rye in East Sussex, has a romantic and typically English atmosphere. With a mystical history of smugglers and shipwrecks, the town inspired great literary figures, such as E. F. Benson, H. G. Wells and Henry James. Let your imagination flourish in the labyrinth of winding cobbled streets and passageways, which will appeal to anyone with a love of things bohemian and rustic. Rye is the perfect setting for a classic English garden party wedding, or an intimate celebration at a quirky historic inn.
Hallstatt, Austria
This phenomenally beautiful lakeside town has a true Austrian aesthetic, dotted with pretty churches and set against a spectacular alpine mountainscape. The village is small, so take time find quiet moments amongst the bustle and you will be rewarded with a heart achingly romantic panoramic vista. A wedding in Hallstatt will be intimate and exquisite - particularly stunning in Autumn, when the golden light complements the building’s earthy tones.
Istria, Croatia
Istria in Croatia is the heart of wine and truffle country, with a diverse landscape overlooking vineyards and Roman ruins. Here the verdant fairytale hilltops with dense forests and olive groves offer a magical setting for stylish and fashionable weddings. Exchange vows outdoors or in a romantic courtyard, dine under the clear night sky and admire the towering pine forests and nearby islands wait to be explored.
Wurzburg, Germany
Würzburg, in Bavaria is known for lavish baroque and rococo architecture. As the heart of the Franconian wine country, the city is home to numerous wineries, perfect for those with cultured and refined tastes. Go out at sunrise on the morning of your wedding to see the beauty of the palaces either side of the river and disappear into a world of your own with your beloved.
Lake Garda, Italy
Encompassing three regions, Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake and its crystal clear sapphire blue waters are unparalleled in their beauty. The lake is encircles by enchanting waterfront towns, while majestic mountains rise before your eyes. The shores are abundant with sweet-smelling lemon groves, brightly coloured sail-boats and aromatic cypress and olive trees. Truly a dream wedding destination, here you can bask in the glorious sunshine with your closest friends and family and feel complete freedom swimming in the lake at the end of a perfect day.
Bologna, Italy
With its sun-soaked terracotta buildings, impressive history and fantastic gastronomy, Bologna is a brilliant choice for couples searching for an Italian wedding destination. The photogenic University Quarter displays impressive 17th and 18th century architecture, and the pretty ‘portico’ arches that line Bologna’streets offer welcome shade on a hot day, or shelter from unexpected rain. Wander the alleyways between the magnificent ‘piazzo’ squares, surrounded by Italy’s signature grand palaces, museums and churches.
Lago di Carezza, Italy
Lago di Carezza is a glorious alpine lake in the Dolomites in Italy. With an unrivalled view of the rocky and rugged mountain range, the misty landscape exudes romance and the sense of unity with nature is truly intoxicating. Enjoy a dreamy stroll beside the lake, or picnic on the wildflower-strewn hilltops with your partner and feel as if there is only the two of you, the earth and the sky in all the world. Local venues offer rustic charm and signature cuisine.
Esterel Mountains, France
The Esterel mountain range in Southern France is a land of contrasts, with rugged, red volcanic rock towering over a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea. Adventurous couples will fall in love with hiking in the remote oak forests, where the dark, geometric rocks on which they stand are dramatic and unspoilt. This location would be ideal for a couple in search of a cinematic and moody setting in the wilderness.
Madeira Island, Portugal
Known as the floating gardens of the Atlantic, the hillsides are covered with lush vegetation all year round and the gardens bloom with exotic flowers. Madeira is blessed with a sensational climate, so is always an amazing place for an amazing love story. Make a breath-taking entrance by sail boat or yacht, exchange vows on a clifftop or beside the ocean, then watch the sunset over the seascape where whales and dolphins are often spotted.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul’s rich culture fuses both Asian and European traditions and the city effervesces with vibrant energy. Remarkable modern skyscrapers stand tall, juxtaposed with ancient architectural marvels, a unique fusion of past and present worlds. Embrace the fusion of your own lives and tell your love story in Istanbul from one of luxury hotels that overlook the beautiful Bosphorus waterway, festooned with flowers and fragrant from the spices lingering in the air. Life in Istanbul is fast-paced and fascinating, bringing out passion, spontaneity and impulsiveness in everyone who travels there
Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve boasts golden cliffs that cascade into sparkling jewel seas, scalloped bays and hidden coves. Hold a deluxe and exclusive wedding on the unmissable Lady of the Rock, followed by a reception at one of the Algarve’s many original, magnificent palaces, with botanical gardens to dance the night away in under the stars. Of if you prefer something more low-key, enjoy the gentle pace of life in the whitewashed fishing towns where the region’s famous seafood will delight your senses. A peaceful stroll to the azure lagoons to take in wild flamingos in their natural habitat, surrounded by fig and almond trees would be a unique and magical experience.
Gruner See, Austria
Gruner See is an extraordinarily vivid emerald green lake in the Hochschwab Mountains, Austria. Nestled between forests and the snow-capped mountains, adventurous couples will adore this epic location in any season. As temperatures rise in the spring, the snow from the surrounding mountains melts down into the basin, submerging the park until July, an extraordinary natural phenomenon that allows divers to immerse themselves in an underwater world.
Berlin, Germany
The multicultural capital of Germany showcases beauty in simplicity. Unpretentious and dynamic, the city’s diverse art scene will attract creative couples, and at night it throbs with energy so you can guarantee your party will continue all night long. The evocative monuments such as the famous Berlin wall and Brandenburg Gate bring a sense of cinematic melancholy for those seeking a dramatic or moody urban setting.
Prague, Czech Republic
For anyone who appreciates European history, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture or the arts, the Golden City of Prague would be an inspired wedding location. Towers, turrets and steeples rise into the skyline above majestic squares where the hustle and bustle of daily life means you can easily feel a sense of privacy, even in public places. Saunter along the cobbled streets and admire the stunning landmarks at every turn; you won’t need any further persuasion that this could be the perfect spot for your lives’ biggest milestone.
Copenhagen, Denmark
For free-spirited couples sharing a bohemian soul, charming and trendy Copenhagen is definitely a wedding destination to consider. The aesthetic of this Scandinavian hotspot is driven by a reverence for simplicity, detail and understated beauty. Clean design lines, cobbled streets, colourful buildings and tiny glowing cafés buzz with vitality and happiness. Design a modest yet personal ceremony at the City Hall or wow numerous guests at an effortlessly cool and chic Danish hotel for the ultimate metropolitan wedding experience.
Elafonissi, Crete
Elafonissi is a magical island, reached by wading through the warm and shallow seawater. Most famous for its stunning pink and white sands, the island is a total paradise for anyone looking to fulfil their beach wedding fantasy. A profusion of exotic wildflowers trail over the sand dune; walk barefoot to your ceremony and dresses and veils will dance in the gentle breeze. Visitors to Elafonissi will be immersed in its bold, wild beauty and memories made here will last a lifetime.
Lviv, Ukraine
Lviv exudes authentic appeal, with quaint alleyways, tempting coffeehouses and rattling trams. From a magnificent viewpoint in High Castle Park, the ruins of the 14th-century castle behold panoramic views of the city’s pastel coloured buildings and green-domed churches. The natives appreciate a simple way of living that is surrounded by nature and this is reflected in their delectable cuisine. For those who may consider other celebrated cities too populated, Lviv would be a picturesque alternative.
Hamburg, Germany
Often described as one of the coolest cities in the world, Hamburg is vibrant, multicultural and spirited. Neo-Gothic architecture has flourished here, with striking pointed arches and bold red-brick timber warehouses standing proud amongst the legendary port and waterways that were once havens for pirates. Maritime spirit is its legacy and there is a fearless dynamism in the music scene – in searching for outstanding live music for your wedding here you would be spoilt for choice.
Tallinn, Estonia
Let your love story blossom in the beautifully preserved mediaeval city of Tallinn, Estonia. Ancient churches, medieval streetscapes and noble merchants' houses can we found within the city walls, while if you wander further off the beaten track, there are unexpected beguiling districts of brightly painted wooden houses. Countless grand manors and villas are available to host a stylish and classy wedding.
Bucharest, Romania
Alternative couples with an artistic vision, looking to express themselves and share their industrial-chic vibe will fall head over heels for Bucharest. Make your wedding day as unique as you are and tie the knot in a minimalist ceremony on the rooftop of a cotton factory, or surround yourselves with greenery at the botanical gardens. Bucharest’s neighbourhoods are as diverse and lively as their occupants so there is something to offer around every corner for those taking steps along their personal journey in Romania.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
The Isle of Skye, or simply Skye (/skaɪ/; Scottish Gaelic: An t-Eilean Sgitheanach or Eilean a' Cheò; Scots: Isle o Skye), is the largest and northernmost of the major islands in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. The island's peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the country. Although it has been suggested that Sgitheanach describes a winged shape there is no definitive agreement as to the name's origins.
The island has been occupied since the Mesolithic period, and its history includes a time of Pictish, Celtic and Norse rule and a long period of domination by Clan MacLeod and Clan Donald. The 18th century Jacobite risings led to the breaking up of the clan system and later clearances that replaced entire communities with sheep farms, some of which involved forced emigrations to distant lands. Resident numbers declined from over 20,000 in the early 19th century to just under 9,000 by the closing decade of the 20th century. Skye's population increased by 4 per cent between 1991 and 2001. About a third of the residents were Gaelic speakers in 2001, and although their numbers are in decline, this aspect of island culture remains important.
The main industries are tourism, agriculture, fishing and forestry. Skye is part of the Highland Council local government area. The island's largest settlement is Portree, which is also its capital,[15] known for its picturesque harbour. There are links to various nearby islands by ferry and, since 1995, to the mainland by a road bridge. The climate is mild, wet and windy. The abundant wildlife includes the golden eagle, red deer and Atlantic salmon. The local flora are dominated by heather moor, and there are nationally important invertebrate populations on the surrounding sea bed. Skye has provided the locations for various novels and feature films and is celebrated in poetry and song.
FAROE ISLANDS
The Faroe or Faeroe Islands (/ˈfɛəroʊ/; Faroese: Føroyar, pronounced [ˈfœɹjaɹ]; Danish: Færøerne) are a North Atlantic archipelago located 320 kilometres (200 mi) north-northwest of Scotland, and about halfway between Norway and Iceland. It is an autonomous territory[8] within the Kingdom of Denmark. The islands have a total area of about 1,400 square kilometres (540 sq mi) with a population of 52,703 as of September 2020
The terrain is rugged; the climate is subpolar oceanic climate (Cfc)—windy, wet, cloudy, and cool. Temperatures average above freezing throughout the year because of the Gulf Stream. As a result of the moderation and the northerly latitude, summers normally hover around 12 °C (54 °F). Average temperatures are 5 °C (41 °F) in winter. The northerly latitude location also results in perpetual civil twilight during summer nights and very short winter days.
Between 1035 and 1814, the Faroe Islands were part of the Kingdom of Norway, which was in a personal union with Denmark from 1450. In 1814, the Treaty of Kiel transferred Norway to the King of Sweden, on the winning side of the Napoleonic Wars, whereas Denmark retained the Faroe Islands, along with Greenland and Iceland. The Faroe Islands have been a self-governing part of the Kingdom of Denmark since 1948,[citation needed] controlling most areas apart from military defence, policing, justice, currency, and foreign affairs. Because the Faroe Islands are not part of the same customs area as Denmark, the country has an independent trade policy, and can establish trade agreements with other states. The Faroes have an extensive bilateral free trade agreement with Iceland, known as the Hoyvík Agreement. In the Nordic Council, they are represented as part of the Danish delegation. In certain sports, the Faroe Islands field their own national teams.
Despite only having one laureate, the Faroe Islands currently have the most Nobel laureates per capita worldwide.
THE ITALIAN DOLOMITES
The Dolomites (Italian: Dolomiti [doloˈmiːti]; Ladin: Dolomites; German: Dolomiten [doloˈmiːtn̩] ; Venetian: Dołomiti [doɰoˈmiti]: Friulian: Dolomitis) are a mountain range located in northeastern Italy. They form part of the Southern Limestone Alps and extend from the River Adige in the west to the Piave Valley (Pieve di Cadore) in the east. The northern and southern borders are defined by the Puster Valley and the Sugana Valley (Italian: Valsugana). The Dolomites are located in the regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol and Friuli Venezia Giulia, covering an area shared between the provinces of Belluno, Vicenza, Verona, Trentino, South Tyrol, Udine and Pordenone.
Other mountain groups of similar geological structure are spread along the River Piave to the east – Dolomiti d'Oltrepiave; and far away over the Adige River to the west – Dolomiti di Brenta (Western Dolomites). A smaller group is called Piccole Dolomiti (Little Dolomites), located between the provinces of Trentino, Verona, and Vicenza (see map).
The Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park and many other regional parks are located in the Dolomites. In August 2009, the Dolomites were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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