When I think about dream wedding locations, the Greek Islands always top my list. With their stunning blue waters, white-washed buildings, and incredible sunsets, these islands create the perfect backdrop for saying “I do.”
Brides and grooms, I’m here to help you figure out everything you need to know about planning your wedding and honeymoon in Greece. In this article, you’ll learn:
Which Greek island should you choose for your destination wedding.
How to plan and budget your event.
How to make the most of the wedding with your guests.
Without further ado, let me walk you through the Greek aisle to forever.
Why Choose a Greek Island Wedding?
I’ve seen many destination weddings, but there’s something truly special about getting married in Greece. Picture this: you can exchange vows on a cliff overlooking the sea, in a charming village square, or even near ancient ruins. Simply romantic!
But what I love most is how the islands combine natural beauty with fantastic food, warm hospitality, and that laid-back Mediterranean vibe that helps everyone relax and enjoy the celebration.
Selecting the Ideal Greek Island
After helping many couples plan their big day, I’ve found that each Greek island offers something unique.
Here are my top picks:
1. Santorini
Santorini is the most popular choice among couples, and I can see why. Its famous blue-domed churches and sunset views over the caldera make fantastic wedding photos.
Plus, the local vendors really know what they’re doing when it comes to making your big day special—they are total pros!
2. Mykonos
Mykonos is perfect if you want a mix of luxury and fun. I’ve seen couples host incredible multi-day celebrations here, starting with beach parties and ending with elegant receptions at boutique hotels.
3. Other Islands
Don’t overlook islands like Crete, Rhodes, or Paros. They’re less crowded and often more budget-friendly while offering beautiful venues and excellent service. If you want a more intimate and serene event, I highly recommend you consider these islands.
Choosing Your Venue
The place where you get married is super important. It sets the mood for the whole day. Here are your common venue options in Greece:
- On a beach: For a relaxed, romantic feel, like in Elafonissi Beach.
- In a fancy hotel: For a luxurious experience, like in Santorini Sky Luxury Resort.
- At a historic site: For something unique and memorable, like Corfu’s Old Ionian Parliament.
- In a villa: For a private event, like in Villa Elvire.
Here’s what to consider:
- Easy access for guests
- Good backup options in case of wind (trust me on this one)
- Enough space for both ceremony and reception
- Great sunset views (if possible)
Expert Planning Guide
Timing is everything when planning a Greek island wedding. I recommend May, June, or September. The weather is perfect, and you’ll avoid the peak tourist crowds of July and August.
Trust me, your guests will appreciate not melting in their formal wear!
When it comes to paperwork, here’s what I’ve learned: you’ll need to handle some legal requirements, and they can be tricky.
I always suggest hiring a local wedding planner. They know precisely what documents you need and can help navigate the Greek bureaucracy. It’s worth every penny for the peace of mind.
Budgeting for Your Dream Day
Let’s be honest, weddings cost money!
However, the cost of a Greek Island wedding depends on many factors, such as where you want to get married, how many people are invited, and what kind of food and entertainment you require.
Things to keep in mind when budgeting:
| Checklist | What to Plan |
| Venue | Where you have the ceremony and reception. |
| Food and Drinks | Catering for your guests. |
| Hotel | Where everyone will stay. |
| Travel | Getting you and your guests to the island. |
| Wedding Outfits | Your dress, suit, etc. |
| Photos and Video | Capturing those memories. |
| Decorations and Flowers | Making everything look pretty. |
| Entertainment | Music, DJs, etc. |
| Legal Fees | Paying for the paperwork. |
Remember to factor in the travel costs for you and your wedding party as well.
Pro tip: Book everything well in advance to get better rates.
Guest Activities and Transportation
Your guests are traveling far, so make it worth their while.
I like to plan:
- Welcome Dinner: A chance for everyone to get to know each other before the big day.
- Group Tours: Exploring the island together.
- Post-Wedding Brunch: A relaxed way to say goodbye.
For transportation, book a private transfer service from Athens to your island. It makes life so much easier for everyone.
The Honeymoon
Here’s my favorite part: planning the honeymoon!
You’re already in paradise, so take advantage of it. Spend a few days exploring your wedding island, then hop to another one or two islands. I love ending with a couple of days in Athens to see the Acropolis and enjoy some city life before heading home.
Final Thoughts: Making It Happen
A Greek island wedding might seem overwhelming to plan, but I promise it’s worth it. Start your planning early, work with local professionals, and remember to enjoy the process. After all, you’re planning the most romantic day of your life in one of the world’s most beautiful settings, and nothing can be more romantic than that!