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Getting married in Iceland

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE PLANNING YOUR WEDDING IN ICELAND

Icelandic breed horses in an Icelandic meadow
grooms holding their blazer on an esplanade in Iceland

Planning your wedding in Iceland?

Here is a complete guide with everything you need to know before getting married in Iceland.


Iceland is the perfect destination for a wild and different elopement. Its impressive waterfalls, black sand beaches and snow-capped mountains create the ideal setting for a wedding in Iceland surrounded by wild and unspoiled nature.

But keep in mind that Iceland’s magic extends beyond its natural landscapes. You will also find charming fishing villages, a rich culture and unique traditions that add a special touch to your experience. In addition, the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights in the night sky adds a magical and romantic element to your wedding in Iceland.

Whether you dream of an elopement at a waterfall, on a mountaintop or on a secluded beach, this island has everything you need to make your wedding in Iceland a magical and unforgettable day.

YOU NEED TO KNOW:

  • Depending on the time of year, daylight hours vary from 4 to 22 hours.
  • The northern lights are not visible all year round, the best opportunity to see them is on a cold, clear night from October to March.
  • The weather in Iceland is very unpredictable, especially in winter. Couples who want to get married in Iceland should be aware of this and understand that they might have a completely different climate than expected.
  • Be sure to obtain permission from the National Park if you plan to get married in an outdoor ceremony.
  • It is usually cheaper to have a wedding ceremony an hour away from the city and then have the reception in the city. This gives guests the opportunity to stay wherever they want.
  • For those with a larger budget, there is the option of renting a complete hotel in the countryside. You also have the option of having the ceremony in the area and the reception at the hotel. Keep in mind that Iceland has some very nice hotels in different locations in all parts of the country and this will give a very different touch to your elopement.
  • The average price of a wedding menu in Iceland without wine is ISK 9,000-12,000 (80€) per person. Very similar to a normal restaurant meal, but high-end wedding venues can be more expensive.
  • Most alcoholic beverages are imported, which makes them very expensive. Fresh flowers can also be expensive, so consider alternatives.

THERE ARE MANY REASONS TO GET MARRIED IN ICELAND. HERE ARE SOME OF THEM:

1

Wild landscapes

The island is famous for its breathtaking natural scenery, from waterfalls and towering glaciers to black sand beaches and lava fields, every corner offers a unique beauty that will make your wedding in Iceland truly unforgettable.

2

Privacy and peace

Getting married in Iceland gives you the opportunity to escape the crowds and enjoy an intimate moment with your partner in the middle of nature, the serenity and tranquility of the Icelandic landscapes create the perfect place for a romantic and personalized wedding.

3

Several activities

In addition to its natural beauty, Iceland offers numerous exciting activities and adventures. You can explore ice caves, hike glaciers, bathe in natural hot springs or even take a snowmobile tour, your elopement in Iceland will be a unique combination of love and adventure.

4

Northen lights

Iceland is known for its unique natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights and the midnight sun, getting married in Iceland gives you the opportunity to experience these incredible natural spectacles, adding a touch of magic and mysticism to your wedding.

WHAT ARE THE BEST PLACES TO GET MARRIED IN ICELAND?

Reynisfjara beach with its brutal landscape is the perfect setting for a wedding in Iceland. Its impressive cliffs, black volcanic sand and black basalt formations make a photo shoot here look like a magazine.

Imagine exchanging vows in the privacy of this remote beach, surrounded by the roar of the ocean and the majestic sea rock formations. Every corner of this beach offers unique opportunities to capture photos that will not leave you indifferent.

An elopement at Reynisfjara beach allows you to connect with Iceland’s wilderness and create a personalized and intimate experience. The sea breeze, color contrasts and natural elements add a very unique touch to the ceremony.

Whether you choose a sunset wedding or under the glare of the northern lights, Reynisfjara beach provides a unique backdrop to celebrate your love in an elopement you will remember forever.

Jökulsárlón is a stunning glacial lagoon located in the southeast of the island that has become a dream destination for couples looking to celebrate an elopement in Iceland surrounded by unique natural beauty. The surroundings of Jökulsárlón offer a magical and romantic scenery with its crystal clear waters and the presence of floating icebergs.

This place is perfect for nature and adventure lovers. You can celebrate your wedding ceremony on the shores of the lagoon while watching the icebergs detach from the glacier and float peacefully in the water. The tranquility and serenity of the surroundings create an intimate and unique atmosphere to celebrate your elopement.

In addition to scenic beauty, Jökulsárlón also offers opportunities for spectacular photographs. The changing colors and light throughout the day create the perfect ambiance to capture unforgettable moments of your wedding in Iceland. Whether on the shore of the lagoon or in the surrounding areas, you will find numerous nooks and crannies and breathtaking panoramic views.

The Solheimasandur Plane Wreck is an iconic tourist destination in Iceland, located on the beach of Solheimasandur, on the south coast of the country. The plane, a former Douglas DC-3, crashed in 1973 and has since become a popular attraction due to its surreal appearance and remote location.

The abandoned plane sits in the middle of a vast volcanic landscape that looks like something out of a movie set. It’s surrounded by black sand and nothing else, believe me, it looks like you’re on Mars.

Reaching the site requires a 4-kilometer walk from the nearest parking area, as vehicles are not allowed on the beach. But you can always take the bus that leaves every 30 minutes, it is worth it if you are going to go dressed as a bride and groom.

Seljalandsfoss is an impressive waterfall located in southern Iceland, it is situated on the Seljalandsá River and is known for its unique feature… visitors can walk behind the veil of water that falls from a height of approximately 60 meters. This experience allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views and an immersive sensation as they go inside the waterfall.

The natural surroundings of Seljalandsfoss are also impressive. Surrounded by cliffs and rock formations, this place is perfect for an elopement in Iceland.

In addition, it is important to note that, to fully enjoy the Seljalandsfoss experience and avoid crowds, it is recommended to arrive early in the morning, during the early hours of the day, the waterfall tends to be less crowded, allowing you to appreciate its beauty in a more peaceful and serene environment, this ensures that you have an intimate and special moment during your elopement, surrounded only by nature and the tranquility of the place.

It is one of the most recognized symbols of the city of Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.

Hallgrímskirkja Church not only offers religious ceremonies, but can also serve as a venue for civil ceremonies, giving couples the option of getting married in a beautiful and historic setting, regardless of their religious beliefs.

The interior is impressive, with high ceilings and large, bright spaces, as well as minimalist décor. The majestic and serene atmosphere of the church provides a unique and solemn setting for a wedding.

With its glass and steel structure reflecting the sunlight and the sea, the building is an architectural masterpiece from any point of view.

Located in Reykjavik harbor, the Harpa has jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and mountains. The stunning natural views combine with the building’s modern design to create a truly unique and spectacular setting, worthy of a wedding.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO GET MARRIED IN ICELAND?

IF YOU ARE A FOREIGNER AND WANT TO GET MARRIED IN ICELAND, YOU MUST MEET CERTAIN LEGAL REQUIREMENTS. HERE ARE SOME OF THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS AND PROCEDURES:

Prior to the ceremony, you must file an application for marriage with the Icelandic Civil Registry, this process may involve the submission of documents and payment of fees. You can do it here.

You must provide a birth certificate issued by the authorities of your country, which must be translated into Icelandic or, failing that, into English.

Normally, two witnesses are required to be present during the ceremony, these witnesses must be of legal age and have valid identification.

It is required that both parties are legally in Iceland at the time of the wedding, proof of this must be provided, residence permit, visa or confirmation of arrival date (stamp in passport or airline ticket). Information on residence permits and visas can be obtained from the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration website.

It is important to note that the exact requirements may vary according to nationality and individual circumstances. It is recommended that you contact the Icelandic Civil Registry or consult a legal advisor for accurate and up-to-date information on the specific requirements for marrying in Iceland as a foreigner.

Most couples get married in the usual way in their home country and then have a symbolic ceremony in Iceland, keep this in mind.

Here you will find more information about getting married in Iceland:

WHAT IS THE BEST SEASON TO GET MARRIED IN ICELAND?

Spring / Summer

During the summer months, Iceland experiences the phenomenon known as the Midnight sun, the days are incredibly long, with almost 24 hours of sunlight, this provides plenty of time for outdoor weddings and stunning golden hour photography opportunities.

Spring and summer in Iceland bring milder temperatures compared to the colder months, with the average temperature ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), making outdoor activities and celebrations more comfortable.

With such long daylight hours, you have more time to explore and enjoy the beauty of Iceland, you can plan a full day elopement adventure taking advantage of the daylight for a romantic ceremony, explore iconic landmarks and capture unforgettable moments in one of Iceland’s many natural wonders.

Fall / Winter

Iceland is famous for its spectacular aurora borealis, the autumn and winter months are the best months to have a greater chance of witnessing this fascinating natural phenomenon.

Iceland’s landscapes take on a dramatic and otherworldly beauty during the autumn and winter months, the snow-capped mountains, frozen waterfalls and icy coastlines make your wedding photos even more spectacular, plus the unique combination of fire and ice in Iceland’s landscapes add a touch of magic and enchantment to your wedding.

Autumn and winter are considered low seasons in Iceland, which means fewer tourists and a quieter atmosphere, this allows you to have more exclusive access to popular wedding venues and destinations, creating a more intimate and personal experience for you and your partner.

ANY MORE QUESTIONS?

Let’s talk about your wedding in Iceland

If you are planning your wedding in Iceland I am here to help you, I have been there many times and I know the best corners of the island, it will be my pleasure to recommend places, itineraries and services.

Ask me your questions through the following contact form and I will be happy to answer you in less than 3 hours.

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bride and groom taking a selfie on a beach in Iceland