One of the questions I get asked most is “Where is the best place to elope?” In this post, I’m sharing my 10 best places to elope in Europe.
Even though Europe may be a small continent compared to other continents, it holds some of the most exquisite locations for an elopement wedding.
Romanticism was born in Europe, and if romance is what you’re after, you’ll find some of the best places in the world to celebrate your big day.
Europe has it all – From the Colosseum in Rome to the Eiffel Tower in Paris to Lake Como surrounded by the Swiss Alps.
Each city has its own culture, spectacular architecture, beauty, and cuisine.
There is something for everyone when it comes to planning your wedding in Europe.
If you’ve made the decision to have an intimate wedding in Europe but are still wondering where to elope then you are in the right place.
I was raised in Europe (mostly Rome) and have both a European Community passport and an American Passport which means I can also legally work in Europe.
In this video, I have curated a list of some of the most majestic destinations that make for the best places to elope in Europe.
I’m all about romantic and chic elopements.
And when I choose a “favorite” location it usually has to have the following components included:
- strong culture
- beautiful art and architecture
- exquisite panoramic views (like the rolling hills of Tuscany)
- nature
- elegance
- great cuisine
- incredible hospitality
- and fun things to do and see on your honeymoon
1. ROME
1st on my list is Rome! Ok, I might be a bit biased as I’m from Rome.
(By way, this list is in no specific order, I just decided to start with Rome).
But I’m sure many would agree with me. I also got married in the eternal city!
The city of Rome is one of the most magical cities in the world and is a wonderful location for an elopement.
It’s all about class and glamour.
You won’t be short of experiences as the city is full of some of the finest art, historical sites, stunning architecture, and history.
Every corner exudes romance and panoramic views that can form the perfect backdrop for your wedding pictures.
If you are a big fan of history, architecture, and the arts, head straight to Rome. It is for you!
For more details on Eloping in Rome, you can read this post.
2. TUSCANY
Tuscany is Italy’s largest region and has so much to offer.
The art, landscapes, and medieval hilltop villages are all breathtakingly beautiful.
And if you love food and good wine, then this will be heaven.
Tuscany the birthplace of the renaissance is probably one of the most popular elopement destinations as it emanates a soft feel romance.
With plenty of vineyards, quaint romantic towns like Volterra, Lucca, or Montepulciano, you’ll be immersed in some of the most beautiful landscapes with rolling hills, olive groves, and cobblestone streets.
The medieval vibe of this place will capture your heart.
And what I love about it is the slow and stylish lifestyle where every moment is cherished.
No American-rush-rush lifestyle here.
3. CAPRI
Capri is a fabulous Mediterranean island and a gem in itself.
The beautiful mountains and sparkling turquoise water make it a favorite spot for couples to elope.
In fact, with beautiful panoramic views, Capri has earned its status as one of the most romantic and best places to elope on earth.
It has an incredible history as well and dates back to the early years of the Roman Empire and throughout the Island, you can many ruins from Emperor Augustus.
I have a video here to watch on eloping in Capri.
4. VENICE
Venice is another breathtaking destination in Europe that should definitely be on your list to consider for a most romantic elopement.
It is the floating city of Italy that is full of secret streets, canals, food, culture, and much more.
As you step into Venice, you are swept into a world of romance, sensuality, and history.
The city has a vibe of its own that makes it the perfect place for exchanging vows.
5. LAKE COMO
Lake Como in Northern Italy offers a stunning setting for an elopement wedding.
With its dramatic views of the Alps, historical churches, and colorful villages, it’s perfect for an elopement or any romantic getaway.
The whole area is incredibly romantic and perfect if you can extend your stay and visit nearby areas like Switzerland, or other regions throughout Italy.
I have a blog post on eloping in Lake Como and you can watch it here.
6. PARIS
When we are talking about elopements in Europe it is impossible to miss Paris off the list – also known as the City of Love.
This beautiful destination is filled with elegant architecture, vibrant life, museums, ancient buildings, historical sites, and, of course, the iconic Eiffel Tower.
The city offers exciting nightlife and a dreamy experience for couples that is all it’s own.
Whether you are planning your wedding in the presence of a few close family members or just want an intimate ceremony between the two of you, the famous landmarks in the city have many beautiful locations to host your elopement.
7. SANTORINI, GREECE
From white sandy beaches to blue-domed churches, to incredible local cuisine, to cliffside villas – Greece is the perfect elopement getaway for the romantic couple.
One of Greece’s most iconic destinations, the island of Santorini has endless beaches, and unique whitewashed buildings are breathtaking backdrops to enjoy during elopement and honeymoon.
There are many stunning villas and resorts to choose from for your Greek elopement wedding.
Santorini has pretty much everything you need for your elopement to be the fairytale wedding you’ve always dreamt of.
8. PROVENCE, FRANCE
Are you dreaming of eloping immersed by the purple lavender fields?
Provence is a dream for a destination elopement and also your honeymoon.
There are so many things to do and see besides the iconic lavender fields, vineyards, and farmland.
You have perched hilltop villages, quaint streets, vineyards, farmland, and old stone chateaus.
The atmosphere is charming and so relaxed – what I like to call slow-chic.
The lifestyle aspires for long lazy lunches surrounded by olives trees and sublime countryside.
If you want the lavender fields then head to the Valensole area in late June and early July.
9. AMALFI COAST
The Amalfi coast is well-known for its quaint and colorful villages along the Mediterranean Sea.
The landscapes are painted with unique pastel colors, colorful local ceramics, terraces of lemon and tomato groves that are scattered throughout the region.
You have both majestic mountains and sea.
If you love great seafood, alfresco restaurants, mozzarella cheese, and great local wine, this region of Italy will melt your heart.
And my favorite food in all of Italy is from this region.
10. DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
Dubrovnik is an ancient city on the Adriatic Sea.
It’s actually right across from Italy and they share the same waters.
Dubrovnik is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic Sea.”
Having been raised in Rome, I have a big appreciation and eye for beautiful architecture and this town surely doesn’t disappoint.
Throughout the city, you have gorgeous Gothic and Renaissance churches and palaces in the old city which is actually part of UNESCO.
You may know it from the TV series, Game of Thrones, but it dates back to the 10th century.
Dubrovnik has some of the most crystal clear waters I have ever seen and some of the best fish too!
I love all the red rooftops and marble.
MORE ELOPEMENT TIPS ON ELOPING IN EUROPE
Deciding to elope in Europe is both an adventurous and a romantic experience.
The locations I have listed in this post are some of the best places to elope if you’re after romance, beauty, gorgeous architecture, history, slow-chic travel, great food and wine, and impeccable hospitality.
These spots are not just fabulous for your elopement wedding but perfect for your honeymoon too.
What could be better than planning an elopement and honeymoon at the same beautiful destination?
Europe is an absolute dream for every couple in love.
From mountains to vineyards and beautiful landscapes, these cities are perfect for those looking for an epic and memorable elopement experience.
Each place has its own vibe and you want to make sure everything ties together to have your once-in-a-lifetime elopement.
If you have dream of having an a-once-in-a-lifetime experience, then here is a step-by-step guide complete with elopement planning tips to help you put together the most special day of your life.
Buy my Book- The Elopement experience to pull off a seamless and timeless elopement wedding.