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General Advice
Top Wedding Destinations for 2025-2026
06 Jun 2025 •13 min read
Planning a wedding is exciting, but picking the perfect destination? That can be overwhelming—in a good way. We’ve rounded up the top spots to say "I do" in 2025 and 2026, both internationally and within the U.S. Each destination comes with insights on the vibe, why couples love it, when to go, and a rough budget guide ($ to $$$). Think of this as a curated list you'd get from your most wedding-savvy friend.
International Destinations
1. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is famous for its dramatic cliffs, colorful seaside villages like Positano and Ravello, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. With romantic villas, terraced gardens, and ancient churches tucked into hillsides, it offers an old-world charm that's hard to beat. Getting there typically involves flying into Naples, followed by a drive or ferry ride. It's a bit of a journey—but so worth it for that unbeatable scenery and dolce vita atmosphere.
Why We Love It: It’s effortlessly romantic and iconic—the photos practically take themselves.
Best Time: May to early July, September to October (August is hot, crowded, and pricey).
Average Cost: $$$
2. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is a volcanic island in the Aegean Sea, famous for its whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and iconic sunsets. The island’s cliffside venues and luxurious boutique hotels make it a top choice for couples looking for a picturesque, intimate ceremony. You can fly into Athens and take a short flight or ferry to Santorini. With great food, warm hospitality, and spectacular views, it’s a win across the board.
Why We Love It: Intimate, scenic, and perfect for those golden hour ceremony shots.
Best Time: Late April to early June, September to mid-October.
Average Cost: $$
3. Bali, Indonesia
Bali offers a stunning mix of jungle, rice paddies, cliffs, and beaches. Known for its spiritual energy and dreamy private villas, Bali is perfect for couples looking for a nature-meets-luxury vibe. Flying into Denpasar International Airport is easy from most major hubs, and the island has venues ranging from beachfront resorts to lush forest hideaways.
Why We Love It: Ideal for a destination wedding-meets-honeymoon. Plus, great value.
Best Time: May to September (dry season).
Average Cost: $$
4. Portugal (Lisbon, Sintra, or the Algarve)
Portugal offers a little bit of everything—sun-soaked beaches, cobblestone cities, historic palaces, and vineyard-covered hills. Lisbon and Sintra are perfect for couples craving a mix of culture and romance, while the Algarve is known for stunning coastal cliffs and relaxed beach vibes. With great weather, delicious food, and accessible pricing, it’s quickly becoming a go-to European destination.
Why We Love It: Beautiful architecture, dreamy landscapes, and excellent value.
Best Time: May to early July, September to October (August is hot and busy).
Average Cost: $$
5. Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como is synonymous with elegance. Nestled in Northern Italy and surrounded by the Alps, it features tranquil waters, historic villas, and charming lakeside towns like Bellagio and Varenna. It’s accessible via Milan, followed by a scenic train or car ride. Celebrities and royals have flocked here for a reason—it's one of the most luxurious wedding backdrops in the world.
Why We Love It: Luxe, timeless, and a favorite among celeb weddings.
Best Time: May to October (July/August is busiest).
Average Cost: $$$
6. Paris, France
The city of love needs little introduction. From ornate hotels and historic châteaux to gardens and river cruises on the Seine, Paris is dripping with charm and sophistication. Direct flights from nearly every major city make it an easy destination for guests. Whether you're dreaming of a chic elopement or a grand affair, Paris offers venues and vibes for every kind of couple.
Why We Love It: Chic, romantic, and full of once-in-a-lifetime backdrops.
Best Time: April to June, September to early October.
Average Cost: $$$
7. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum blends beachfront relaxation with bohemian flair. Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, it's filled with eco-chic resorts, cenotes, and Mayan ruins. It’s a short drive from Cancun International Airport, making travel fairly easy. Couples love the laid-back atmosphere, design-forward venues, and proximity to fun excursions.
Why We Love It: Trendy yet laid-back, and easy for guests to get to.
Best Time: November to April (avoid hurricane season in late summer/fall).
Average Cost: $$
8. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a sensory experience—think vivid colors, fragrant spices, and stunning tilework. Set against the Atlas Mountains and home to ornate riads and lush gardens, it offers a blend of traditional and luxurious. Fly into Marrakech Menara Airport from most European cities. It’s ideal for couples who want a bold, vibrant, and culturally rich wedding.
Why We Love It: Dreamy colors, rich textures, and something totally different.
Best Time: March to May, September to November.
Average Cost: $$
9. Queenstown, New Zealand
Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown also offers incredible wedding venues surrounded by mountains, lakes, and vineyards. While it’s a long haul from the U.S., the destination delivers jaw-dropping views and world-class hospitality. It's especially great for couples wanting to blend adventure with elegance.
Why We Love It: Breathtaking landscapes and a mix of cozy and luxe.
Best Time: December to March (New Zealand’s summer).
Average Cost: $$$
10. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is steeped in history and tranquility. With traditional temples, manicured gardens, and serene tea houses, it’s perfect for couples looking to infuse cultural heritage into their big day. Fly into Osaka or Tokyo, then take the efficient bullet train. Cherry blossom season adds an extra layer of romance, but fall is equally beautiful.
Why We Love It: Cultural charm meets modern beauty. Cherry blossom season is unbeatable.
Best Time: Late March to April for cherry blossoms, October to November for fall colors.
Average Cost: $$$
11. Antigua & Barbuda
About: This twin-island Caribbean nation offers soft white sand beaches, historic forts, and crystal-clear water. With 365 beaches to choose from, it’s ideal for a barefoot ceremony or a luxe resort wedding. It’s accessible via direct flights from the U.S. and Europe. Destination wedding packages here are plentiful and guest-friendly.
Why We Love It: Laid-back and beautiful with all the island charm.
Best Time: December to April (dry season).
Average Cost: $$
12. South of France (Provence or Cote d’Azur)
The South of France combines rustic countryside with chic coastal towns. Lavender fields, vineyards, and sun-soaked cliffs define the region. Whether you're going for a Provençal farmhouse or a glamorous seaside soirée in Nice, it’s as romantic as it gets. Fly into Marseille or Nice, depending on your exact location.
Why We Love It: Rustic elegance with serious wine-country appeal.
Best Time: Late May to early July, September.
Average Cost: $$$
13. Ireland (County Clare, Kerry, or Dublin)
Think ancient castles, lush green landscapes, and warm Irish hospitality. Ireland is perfect for storybook weddings with a bit of misty romance. Fly into Dublin or Shannon depending on your region of choice. From historic estates to cozy countryside inns, Ireland makes for a welcoming and magical setting.
Why We Love It: Fairytale vibes with real-world charm.
Best Time: May to September (weather is mild and days are longer).
Average Cost: $$
14. Patagonia, Chile or Argentina
For couples dreaming of a true escape into nature, Patagonia is an unforgettable choice. With jagged mountains, turquoise lakes, and epic glaciers, this remote region straddles southern Chile and Argentina. Fly into Santiago or Buenos Aires, then connect to regional airports like El Calafate or Punta Arenas. It’s ideal for adventurous duos who want an intimate ceremony surrounded by surreal landscapes.
Why We Love It: It’s totally off the beaten path and feels like the edge of the world—in the best way. Perfect for an elopement or ultra-intimate celebration.
Best Time: November to March (Patagonian summer—milder temps and longer days).
Average Cost: $$-$$$
15. Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is a dream come true for couples seeking rolling hills, sun-soaked vineyards, and that perfect golden-hour glow. From Florence to Siena and tiny hilltop towns like Montepulciano, the region is packed with Renaissance charm, rustic villas, and world-class wine estates. Many venues double as boutique hotels or agriturismos, making it easy to host and house your guests all in one place. Fly into Florence or Pisa and enjoy the scenic drive through olive groves and vineyards.
Why We Love It: Romantic countryside vibes with wine, views, and Italian flair.
Best Time: May to early July, September to October (August can be hot and crowded).
Average Cost: $$$
Domestic Destinations
1. Montana
Big sky, wide open spaces, and those jaw-dropping mountain views. Montana offers rustic luxury with endless natural beauty—think outdoor ceremonies on a ranch, glamping weddings, or cozy lodges. Cities like Bozeman or Whitefish provide the perfect mix of scenic and accessible.
Why We Love It: Nature lovers and luxury seekers alike will swoon over the epic landscapes and relaxed vibe.
Best Time: June to September for mild weather and clear skies (winters are stunning, but snowy!).
Average Cost: $$
2. California Wine Country (Napa & Sonoma)
Rolling vineyards, world-class wine, and warm, golden light make Napa and Sonoma a dream for elegant, food-forward weddings. With chic estates, barn venues, and romantic inns, it’s ideal for couples who want rustic charm with upscale flair.
Why We Love It: Sophisticated and sun-drenched, with food and wine to match.
Best Time: May to October.
Average Cost: $$$
3. Hawaii
Hawaii offers tropical paradise without leaving the U.S. With lush landscapes, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and aloha spirit, it’s ideal for a destination wedding that doubles as a getaway for guests.
Why We Love It: Lush, luxurious, and endlessly romantic.
Best Time: April to October (avoid the rainy season).
Average Cost: $$$
4. Charleston, South Carolina
Southern charm meets coastal elegance. With historic mansions, moss-draped oaks, and waterfront venues, Charleston is full of character. It’s also walkable, foodie-friendly, and filled with charm.
Why We Love It: Rich in history and hospitality—perfect for a timeless wedding.
Best Time: March to May, September to November.
Average Cost: $$
5. Aspen, Colorado
This luxe ski town transforms into a stunning summer and fall wedding destination. Think mountaintop ceremonies, aspen groves, and log-cabin lodges.
Why We Love It: Gorgeous year-round, with a dash of alpine luxury.
Best Time: June to September or December to February for winter weddings.
Average Cost: $$$
6. Sedona, Arizona
Red rock views and desert serenity define Sedona. It’s perfect for spiritual or boho-style ceremonies with epic scenery and warm weather.
Why We Love It: Bold, beautiful, and filled with natural energy.
Best Time: March to May, September to November.
Average Cost: $$
7. Florida Keys
Tropical yet domestic, the Keys offer white sands, turquoise waters, and a relaxed vibe. It’s perfect for beach weddings without needing a passport.
Why We Love It: Fun, sun, and no international travel required.
Best Time: November to May.
Average Cost: $$
8. Hudson Valley, New York
Just a few hours from NYC, this region is filled with rolling hills, historic estates, and cozy barns. It’s especially popular for fall weddings.
Why We Love It: Quaint, seasonal, and full of character.
Best Time: May to October (especially September/October for foliage).
Average Cost: $$
9. Savannah, Georgia
Like Charleston’s laid-back sister, Savannah offers cobblestone streets, moss-covered oaks, and Southern charm in spades. It’s also slightly more affordable.
Why We Love It: Romantic and relaxed with lots of Southern flair.
Best Time: March to May, September to November.
Average Cost: $$
10. Palm Springs, California
Retro desert glam meets poolside chic. Palm Springs is ideal for couples who love sunshine, design-forward spaces, and mid-century cool.
Why We Love It: Stylish, sunny, and fun.
Best Time: October to April (summer gets extremely hot).
Average Cost: $$
11. Las Vegas, Nevada
The wedding capital of the world delivers everything from Elvis-officiated elopements to glamorous rooftop soirées. Las Vegas is perfect for couples who want a mix of spontaneity, sparkle, and world-class entertainment.
Why We Love It: Iconic, energetic, and endlessly versatile.
Best Time: March to May or September to November (to avoid extreme summer heat).
Average Cost: $$
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