The ultimate guide to eloping in Austria
TIPS. VENUES & LOCATION IDEAS
for an adventurous Austria elopement
Situated at the base of the Eastern Alps in Central Europe is the country of Austria – a gorgeous place with an incredible combination of natural beauty, culture, and history. There’s so much to do, and for any couple who wants to elope in Austria, there’s no end to the adventures you can have!
When you’re planning your intimate, unique wedding day, you can go from exploring the magical cities to wandering amongst serene forests and alpine lakes, and this guide will tell you everything you need to know to plan your elopement!
Let’s dive in…
Hey! I’m Amber.
Your Austria elopement photographer + planner
Making the brave decision to elope is a big deal – and I’ll be right by your side as you navigate planning your adventurous wedding! As an elopement photographer, I’ll take photos for you to look back on forever, but my job begins before that. I’ll be your travel planner, helping you create the perfect wedding day, with location scouting, tips and tricks, flight and lodging help, a custom timeline, and everything you’ll need!
If you’re ready to elope in Austria, or want to learn more about Austria elopement packages, contact me!
First, let’s be sure we’re talking about the same thing:
What is an elopement?
We’ll talk all about how to plan your elopement – but first, what does eloping actually mean? No, it’s not a quick courthouse ceremony or something that stays in Vegas – an elopement is all about planning a day that you absolutely love, and getting married however you want to. No rules, no expectations, no pressure – just you, your partner, and the wedding day of your dreams. And maybe a few guests, if you decide that feels right!
How to Get to Austria for Your Elopement
To tie the knot in Austria, you’ll need to get yourselves over there! With lots of flights from all over the world, and a robust public transportation system, it’ll be a breeze.
Get to Austria by Plane
For a lot of couples, the easiest way to get to Austria for your elopement is going to be by plane. Austria has several airports all over the country – the three biggest travel hubs are in Vienna, Innsbruck (in the Alps, most popular in the winter because of its proximity to ski resorts), and Salzburg.
Vienna is the most popular international airport – if you’re flying from the US, or from countries outside of Europe, you’ll likely land here! The other airports usually have flights arriving from Europe, and domestic flights from Vienna, so you might choose to board a connecting flight to your final destination.
Get to Austria by Train
If you’re traveling from another European country, taking the train can be a great way to get to Austria! The train journey through alpine scenery, historic towns, and adorable villages can be an adventure in itself.
Getting Around Austria During Your Elopement
You can also use the trains to get around Austria! There are some scenic train journeys that you can take to see the country, and all of the major cities are connected by train. If you arrive in Austria by plane, taking a train to your final destination can be easier (and more eco-friendly) than boarding a domestic flight!
There are also buses that can get you around Austria – these usually go to the more remote places and smaller towns, but the trips can be long.
The most convenient way to get around Austria is to rent a car! Especially for an elopement, where you’ll likely be traveling to remote places and exploring away from the big towns, a car gives you the ultimate freedom and flexibility, so I definitely recommend renting one. You can do a little bit of both – take the trains when you’re exploring major cities, and rent a car for the day of your elopement, and for the days when you want to get off the beaten path!
How to Legally Elope in Austria
You don’t have to live in Austria to tie the knot, and you can definitely get legally married abroad here – but the process can be a little difficult, so some couples decide to do the paperwork at home and spend the elopement day exploring and having fun rather than worrying about the logistics!
But, if you decide to get legally married when you elope in Austria, here’s what you’ll need.
Civil ceremonies are the only legally recognized ceremonies in Austria, and they typically take place in the Standesamt (civil registration office), but for a fee you can have an official of the Standesamy perform your ceremony elsewhere. Ceremonies take place in German, so if you don’t speak the language, a translator may be required.
You’ll need to send your marriage application within six months of your wedding date, but there is a waiting period of between two to six weeks for it to be approved. If either of you lives in Austria, you’ll file the application at the Standesamt in your area – if you don’t live here, the application needs to be submitted to the main registrar’s office in Vienna.
You’ll need to submit these documents at least 8 weeks before the elopement date:
- Certificate of No Impediment
- Proof of residence
- Passport
- Photocopies of the picture pages of both your passports, and those of your two witnesses
- Birth certificates
For couples from the US:
In certain states, you can ask your county clerk the authorization to sign your wedding license abroad. If they agree, as a registered minister, my team and I will be able to legally marry you without the hassle of a legal wedding ceremony in Austria.
Why Elope in Austria
Mountain Landscapes
The scenery of Austria is one of the best reasons to elope here! The incredible peaks of the Alps make a stunning place to tie the knot, and you can hike, find gorgeous overlooks, and explore some of the small mountain villages.
Vibrant Culture
Vienna has been considered a hub for art, music, and culture for centuries. Many famous musicians and artists have been from Austria, so you can enjoy the country’s incredible history, explore museums, and see some unique architecture.
Delicious Desserts
Austria has some mouth watering treats, and bakeries on just about every street! The country has proclaimed itself as the “capital of cake,” and there are so many incredible desserts to try – so you can get a sweet treat to celebrate your elopement, and do a cake cutting ceremony with an authentic Austrian dessert!
Top 5 spots to Elope in Austria
This is one of the most exciting things about planning an adventurous elopement – being able to get married in some of the most beautiful places in the world. Here are a few ideas for places to elope in Austria!
Stubai Valley
The Stubai Valley mountain range is perfect for couples who want a challenge – to get to the valley, you’ll need to take the Stubai High Trail, a multi day backpacking adventure that will lead you to breathtaking views of the peaks, waterfalls, and the valley.
Lake Gosausee
This gorgeous alpine lake is nestled under the Dachstein Glacier, and surrounded by jagged mountain peaks! It’s a really beautiful place to elope in Austria, and you can hike in the area, or get in the water with a kayak or paddle board.
Lünersee Lake
This natural alpine lake is remote and gorgeous, sparkling at the end of an easy hiking trail! You can extend your high and go climbing on the peaks surrounding the lake, or enjoy the beach or the water. It’s the perfect, serene spot to exchange vows and get married!
Kaisertal Valley
The Kaisertal Valley is a unique spot, located between two mountain ranges. There were no roads until 2008, and now only the (very few) locals who live here are allowed to use the road! You’ll need to take a train, and then hike to reach the gorgeous valley.
Grüner See
This translates to Green Lake – and the turquoise color of the water makes it look completely otherworldly! The stunning lake is surrounded by mountains and forest, and is an amazing place to elope in Austria. But, it disappears in the winter, making its appearance again when the snow melts in the spring!
When to Elope in Austria
Austria experiences all four seasons, with dramatic changes in weather throughout the year – so be prepared when you choose your elopement date!
WINTER IN Austria
Winters in Austria are very cold, and very snowy! It’s an amazing time to elope if you want to go skiing, as Austria has tons of resorts and mountain towns that you can visit in the winter. Eloping in a winter wonderland can be super romantic, so consider tying the knot in the winter for a unique experience!
SPRING IN Austria
Spring weather is pretty unpredictable, so if you elope in Austria during this time of year you’ll need to be prepared for anything! As the weather warms up, it can be a great time to elope before the busy summer season starts, but keep in mind that the mountains will still be covered in snow.
SUMMER IN Austria
Summer offers pretty ideal weather – it’s warm and sunny, and the snow melts in the m0untains. This time of year is perfect for hiking, relaxing by one of Austria’s lakes, and for all your elopement adventures! It’s the busiest time of year, as locals and tourists want to enjoy the weather.
FALL IN Austria
Fall is one of the best times to elope in Austria, as the weather gets less hot – September and October can be more comfortable for outdoor adventures! In the mountains, snow usually starts to accumulate in late fall, but early in the season you can enjoy amazing conditions, and fewer people around.
Lodging for Your Elopement in Austria
You’ll need to find a place to stay when you elope in Austria, and the country has everything from boutique hotels to mountain chalets to cute cabins in the countryside! Choose a place that will add to your elopement experience – here are a few ideas for accommodations in Austria.
Hotels in Austria
Hotels tend to be a convenient option when you’re looking for places to stay in the city, and Austria has so many gorgeous, luxurious hotels that will make your stay incredible. The Hotel Bristol in Vienna is a grand, upscale hotel close to the city center, and if you’re looking for something quiet and peaceful, check out the romantic White Horse Inn on the shores of Lake Wolfgang!
Airbnbs in Austria
While hotels can be a luxurious experience, finding an Airbnb often gives you more private accommodations! You can find amazing chalets in the mountains, unique tree houses, and lakefront homes with incredible views of the water.
Camping in Austria
If you want to experience Austria’s incredible natural beauty, camping is a great way to do that! Wild camping is difficult in Austria, but there are lots of established campgrounds where you can pitch a tent or park a camper van. Many of them will have amenities, and you can also opt for glamping if you want something a little more upscale!
Unique Things to Do When You Elope in Austria
Your elopement can be anything you want it to be – so plan an adventure that you’ll remember forever! Austria has so many unique things to do, so here are a few ideas for your day.
Skiing
Austria is one of the best places in the world for winter sports – so if you love snow and want to hit the slopes, you can ski in the mountains! There are tons of resorts and mountain towns to stay in during your elopement, and whether you’re an experienced skier or you want to try it out, you’ll find fun spots all over the country.
Walk on a Suspension Bridge
A unique thing to do when you elope in Austria is take a stroll on the Dachstein Sky Walk. The suspension bridge towers over mountain views, and it’s a really incredible experience – as long as you’re okay with heights!
Go Hiking
Hiking is a fun way to spend your elopement day, and Austria has no shortage of trails. For incredible mountain views, choose one of the many hikes and have an adventure!
Example budget of an elopement in Austria
All-inclusive, 7-day ELOPEMENT + Honeymoon
6 nights in accommodation (3* or more)
Award-winning elopement photographer for 3 days
All meals for the 7 days
4-5 beautiful, natural and raw ceremony location options
Custom timeline of the day
Officiant
Florist
Hair and makeup
Car rental
Airport transfers
TOTAL FOR An all-inclusive ELOPEMENT IN Austria:
$24 500
12-hour ELOPEMENT
Award-winning elopement photographer for 12 hours
4-5 beautiful, natural and raw ceremony location options
Custom timeline of the day
TOTAL FOR A 12-hour ELOPEMENT IN Austria:
$8 000
What to Wear to Elope in Austria
Eloping is so different from a traditional wedding – and when it comes to your attire, there are some additional things to consider as well!
The Dress
The most important thing for an elopement dress is that it’s comfortable, and allows you to move! You’ll likely be hiking or moving around a lot, and you definitely don’t want to feel restricted on the big day. Choose loose skirts, and make sure everything fits well!
To prepare for the weather, consider your elopement date. Summers are hot, so lighter fabrics and dresses will help you stay cool. Winters are cold, so adding a shawl, cape, or jacket can help you stay warm!
The Shoes
Shoes are an important part of your elopement attire! Hiking boots are best if you plan to hike or to walk a lot, but always make sure to choose comfortable shoes. If you get a new pair for your big day, break them in to avoid blisters!
The Suit
Suits make layering easy, but think about the weather when you choose the right suit! For summer elopements, you may want something more casual that will help you stay cool, and in cold weather, jackets and thermal layers underneath will keep you warm. Make sure that you can walk, sit, and move easily in your elopement suit, so that you’re ready for any adventure!
Elope in Austria – Your Checklist
Choose a Location
I’ll help you with this one, by giving you a list of recommendations personalized just for you! All you’ll have to do is choose the right one. Once you’ve decided to tie the knot in Austria, get in touch, and I’ll help you start planning!
Pick a date
Consider weather, crowds, and travel costs when you choose a date for your elopement, and decide when you want to have your ceremony!
Find more information about travel visas and wedding documentation
Most couples won’t need a visa to elope in Austria – yay! But, make sure your passports are up to date and you’re ready to travel.
Book your flights and accommodation
I’ll help you with flights and recommend places to stay – so all you have to do is make the bookings! Do this early on to get the best deals, and to be able to stay close to your elopement location.
Book your vendors
Vendors are a huge part of your day, so be sure to reach out early, as our calendars fill up fast! Decide what vendors you need for your elopement, and make the bookings.
Live your dream elopement
This is it – you’re eloping in Austria! The dream wedding day we’ve created comes to life, and you get to have an incredible adventure and marry your best friend.
DOES Austria SOUND LIKE YOUR DREAM?
How it works to plan your elopement in Austria
Let’s dive in, so you can start your journey right away!
Imagine a wedding where you can be you. Breathe. Bask in each other’s love.
Experience a place close to your hearts, or a bucket-list dream.
Let’s chat!
Are you eager to start planning your elopement in Austria? I’m here to help you envision, plan and immortalize this beautiful adventure! Contact me now for a free consultation!
