The ultimate guide to elope in Greece
TIPS. VENUES & LOCATION IDEAS FOR AN ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT IN GREECE
From white sand beaches, to cliffside villas, to incredible local cuisine, Greece is the perfect elopement getaway for any adventurous couple. Whether you want to hike volcanoes and kitesurf through choppy waters, or to curl up on the beach with a Santorini Sunrise (both the cocktail and the actual sunrise), Greece has what you’re looking for!
This guide will tell you everything you need to know about how to elope in Greece, with information about marriage laws, the best locations, and more. Keep reading, and you’ll be an expert in no time!
Let’s dive in…
Welcome to the Adventure of a Lifetime
Hey there, I’m Amber! I’m your elopement photographer and planner – your one-stop-shop for absolutely everything you need for a magical, incredible elopement day.
I offer all-inclusive elopement packages for couples who want to relax and let me handle absolutely everything, as well as options for couples who like a little bit of DIY! I’ll find the perfect place for you to exchange vows, recommend vendors, help you figure out travel and lodging, make a timeline, and more – personalizing each part of your elopement day to perfectly suit the two of you. And of course, I’ll be there to take the photos and document this once in a lifetime adventure.
You aren’t like every other couple, and your wedding day shouldn’t be either! I’ll help you craft a day that’s true to you, authentic, and real, allowing you to immerse yourselves in the experience as you say your “I dos.”
First, let’s be sure we’re talking about the same thing:
What is an elopement?
There’s a lot of contention when it comes to the word “elopement.” Your grandma might clutch her pearls and imagine you running off to tie the knot in a quick ceremony, but that’s not what eloping means anymore!
Eloping is all about doing what feels right to you and what reflects the two of you and your relationship. This is supposed to be the best day of your life – and if a big wedding isn’t for you, there’s no reason to do all that planning and go through all that stress for a party that ends up being for everyone else. Elope instead, and start your marriage off with an adventure!
How to Legally Elope in Greece
Paperwork might not be as exciting as planning all the adventures you’re going to have and all the places you’re going to explore, but it’s important to make sure your marriage is legal and valid!
You do not have to be a local to elope in Greece, but obtaining the proper paperwork can take up to several weeks. Here is the paperwork you’ll need to obtain for your ceremony:
- A valid passport
- A birth certificate with the Apostille stamp certifying the copy
- An official Apostille translated into Greek, which can be certified by a lawyer, a foreign ministry’s translation department, a certified translator or the Greek consulate from your home country
- Proof of freedom to marry, or affidavit of marriage, notarised
- A decree of absolution of your previous marriage, if applicable
- A copy of the local newspaper where your intent to marry was published
That last one might be confusing – Greece has a unique custom where in order to get married, you’ll need to state your intent to get married in the local newspaper, or at the town hall! After you’ve done this and obtained all the paperwork, you can go to the town hall where you will apply for a marriage license, which you’ll get eight days later. This entire process costs an average of 307 euros, or 363 USD.
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 Greece.
Why Elope in Greece?
Gorgeous Landscapes
As you island hop around Greece, you’ll find everything from relaxing days on the beach to thrilling adventures for the adrenaline junkie. The white sand beaches are covered in palm trees, and from the gorgeous coastline you’ll often be able to spot dolphins and sea turtles. You can also hike up ancient volcanoes, go rock climbing, zip lining, or sailing!
Local Cuisine
Each region of Greece has its own unique culinary style, so as you explore the country, you’ll get to try all kinds of flavors! Feta and olive oil are a staple, but you’ll also taste herbs you’ve never heard of, incredible seafood, Italian-inspired pastas, and so much more. For any foodie, this is one big reason to elope in Greece.
Cultural Treasures
Greek history goes back centuries, and reminders of the country’s extraordinary past can be found all over. You can stand in the ring where the first olympians competed, marvel at ancient monasteries, and be stunned by the massive sculptures carved by Greek artists. If you want to combine history with adventure, Greece is the perfect country to explore.
Where to Elope in Greece
Greece scenery will take your breath away, but choosing just one place to say your vows might just be the hardest part of elopement planning! Here are a few of my favorites to help you get started.
Santorini
One of Greece’s most iconic destinations, the island of Santorini has endless beaches, cliffs, and unique whitewashed buildings that would make an incredible backdrop for your elopement. The luxurious villas and cliffside houses that the island is known for make the perfect home base to return to after a day of elopement adventures.
Volcanic Rocks of Falakro
The island of Lemnos is the perfect destination for those who want to see the unique dormant volcanoes, but the most unique landscape of this island is the Volcanic Rocks of Falarko. This field of uniquely shaped rocks was formed by solidified lava, and is a once in a lifetime sight during the sunset, when the orange rocks glow with the setting sun.
Meteora
Meteora is located in central Greece, nestled in the Pindos Mountains. The lush green landscape and huge rock formations make it look like something out of Jurassic Park, and as you explore this vast region, you’ll find several medieval monasteries. At the foot of the rocks, there is a small village called Kalambaka that would make the perfect home base for your Greek elopement.
Blue Caves of Zakynthos
The striking blue glow of the water off the coast of Zakynthos is dazzling, but the caves and underground waterways are even more so. Near Shipwreck Beach, where as the name suggests you can see remnants of an old shipwreck, are the Blue Caves. You can admire them from afar, or hop on a boat to sail through the tunnels.
Polylimnio Waterfalls
One of the best-kept secrets of Greece is the region of Polylimnio. After you hike through the wilderness and the lush, green forests, you’ll reach the incredible collection of lakes and waterfalls that make the trek more than worth it. There’s no better place to say your vows than a secret waterfall!
When to Elope in Greece
While the coast of Greece sees moderate temperatures year round, weather becomes more extreme as you travel inland. Athens gets uncomfortably hot in the summer, while mountainous regions often see snowfall in the winter. When you’re planning your elopement in Greece, make sure to research the weather for where you want to go!
WINTER
Most people don’t think of Greece as a winter destination, but if you want to ski or snowboard, you’ll find lots of snow in the mountains! The coastal regions of Greece usually see moderate temperatures, so if you’re willing to face a little bit of rain, eloping in the winter can be a great way to avoid crowds.
SPRING AND FALL
Spring and fall is the perfect time to elope in Greece if you hope to hike. Temperatures are warm but not too hot, and mountain trails are usually snow free. Spring brings incredible blooms of wildflowers, while in the fall, leaves turn bright shades of red and orange.
SUMMER
For those who want to swim in Greece’s blue waters, summer is the best time to visit. Though some may be able to handle the colder water in the spring and fall, the warmest months are June through September.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Greece?
all-inclusive, 7-day ELOPEMENT and honeymoon
6 nights in accommodation (3* or more)
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 GREECE:
$22 100
12-hour ELOPEMENT
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 GREECE:
$8 000
What To Wear When Eloping In Greece
The Dress
Most of the time, Greece is pretty warm. Nights by the coast can get a little chilly though, so layers are your best bet! Opt for dress styles that will let you move around – that means no mermaid or ball gowns. Light, airy fabrics like chiffon and tulle are amazing for running around on the beach, and they’ll look great flowing in the breeze.
The Shoes
There’s nothing worse than having to wear uncomfortable shoes all day – and you definitely don’t want to have blisters on your elopement day! Choose some comfy shoes like hiking boots, or maybe even sandals if you’re eloping on the beach. Make sure to break them in before the big day, and make sure they’re comfy enough to walk around in!
The Suit
Layers are best for eloping in Greece – many places, especially by the coast, will be warm and sunny during the day, but might get chillier in the evening. Dress pants with a button down shirt will be perfect during the day, but adding a suit jacket in the evening will keep you warm – and classy!
Elope in Greece – Your Checklist
Think about where you’d like to go
It can be hard to decide on just one spot to say your vows when Greece offers so many beautiful places. My advice is to start by thinking about what kind of scenery you’d like to see. Waterfalls? Beaches? Volcanos? Do you want to hike, or would you rather step outside your villa and into an incredible view?
As an elopement photographer, a big part of my job is to help couples find the perfect place to say their vows. As a travel planner, I’m ready to go with all the best secret spots! Once you’ve decided to elope in Greece, don’t hesitate to get in touch for planning assistance.
Pick a date
Research the weather in Greece, then pick a date! Eloping on a weekday is your best bet for avoiding crowds, so if you want some privacy when you say your vows, avoid weekends!
Find more informations about travel visas and wedding documentation
You will not need a visa to travel to Greece (unless you plan to stay longer than 90 days), but make sure your passports are up to date!
Book your accommodation
I recommend booking your flights and accommodation early to get the best price, and to ensure that you can stay somewhere close to where you want to elope! Whether you stay in a luxury villa or a quaint Airbnb (or maybe a little bit of both), start looking as soon as you settle on a date.
Book your vendors
It’s never too early to inquire with your favorite vendors. Many of them fill their calendars a year or two out, so they’ll appreciate you getting in touch as soon as possible.
Live your dream elopement
Relax, and spend the day adventuring and exploring around Greece with your love!
DOES GREECE SOUND LIKE YOUR DREAM?
How to plan your peaceful elopement in GREECE with me
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 Greece? I’m here to help you envision, plan and immortalize this beautiful adventure! Contact me now for a free consultation!
