Elope in Norway the Unique Way: All You to Get Married in 2025
All you need to Know before Eloping in Norway in 2025/2026/2027
Hello! We are Jane & Tony, elopement photographers & planners here to help you elope in Norway in an exclusive and adventurous way!
We call Norway our second home, and because we’ve been married for almost 15 years already, we also have experience in our own wedding planning process. That’s why we surely know the complete information you may need, including the best places to elope, legalities, and other tips to make your eloping experience unforgettable!
This might be a long read, but it’s worth it, trust us! Don’t hesitate to contact us for any help you may need.
How to Elope in Norway in 8 Steps
- Choose your elopement locations
- Choose your favourite season to elope
- Understand the legalities and gather documents to get married (including step-by-step instructions)
- Create your travel itinerary (airfare, travel tips, currency and other)
- Book your accommodation & wedding venue
- Book your activities
- Understand your budget
- Elopement packages
Why Should You Elope in Norway?
Never-Ending MidNight Sun
The Midnight Sun is a breathtaking natural phenomenon, where the sun remains visible even in the middle of the night, casting a soft, golden light that’s perfect for dreamy photographs. Imagine eloping with the magical glow of the Midnight Sun; it is something worth a million, right?!
Miracles of the Northern Lights
Yes, you’re not dreaming! You can have a Northern Lights ceremony, starting from mid-September to early April. Some locations like Tromsø, are located in the Arctic Circle and are one of the world’s best destinations to see the northern lights. Finnmark and Svalbard are other great regions for a destination elopement under the dancing mysterious lights of the Aurora Borealis.
It’s a LifEtime Experience
The weather and climate here can be drastically different, even within the same day. But this surely adds a feel of romance, adventure, and excitement to your special day. This can make your day special and unique, filling it with great memories, smiles, hugs, drops of rain, tangled hair, or even a flying away veil because of a sudden gust of the wind at the mountaintop or tender snowflakes falling on your cheeks.
Of course, it’s better to check the weather forecast beforehand and dress accordingly. But if the weather changes, we know how to deal with it and get dream pictures of your eloping experience.
Adventurous Hiking Expriences
One more thing that makes the land of fjords so special is that most scenic and breathtaking mountaintops are accessible only through hiking. We are telling you – this country is a true paradise for those wild hearts and adventure seekers! There are some attractions and viewpoints accessible by road, cable car, or maybe even a helicopter (?!), but the true nature gems are only accessible by foot. Seriously, what could be more rewarding than earning a million-dollar view with an epic hike?
Intimacy & Privacy
Norway is incredibly unique but also unusually remote. While popular spots like Geirangerfjord or Prekestolen can get crowded especially during the peak season, there are plenty of quiet mountaintops and viewpoints where you can have an intimate ceremony or even spend the whole day alone.
The mountain ranges may not be very tall, but they’re incredibly steep. Sometimes, after just a half-hour hike, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views. Plus, since you’re at sea level, hiking here is not as tiring as in the Dolomites or Iceland.
The Best Places to Elope in Norway
Lofoten Islands
Lofoten Islands are like a magical world frozen in time, where jagged peaks rise from icy waters, and the air feels alive with adventure. Imagine eloping here—a place where nature always tries to create something extraordinary. Whether it’s the soft glow of the midnight sun or the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights, the Norwegian Islands offer a special experience that feels surreal, almost like stepping into a dream.
Eloping on the top of a mountain peak in the islands, above the clouds, feels like stepping into a dream. The world below vanishes, leaving you surrounded by an endless sky as if you’re on the edge of the earth. The wind whispers through the peaks, carrying the fresh scent of the Atlantic Ocean, and the only sounds are your and your lover’s heartbeat and the distant calls of seabirds. Norvegian Islands, unlike the Faroe Islands can really boast its travel infrastructure and not less epic natural landscapes.
Senja Island
Senja Island is called by locals “Norway in miniature”, as it’s often considered one of the most beautiful islands of the Lofoten, making it an unforgettable place to elope. Imagine standing atop one of its towering peaks, with a sweeping view of the deepest ocean fjords and islands below. The dramatic cliffs and deep blue waters create a stunning backdrop for your big day, while the stillness of the landscape invites a sense of peace and connection. There’s an overwhelming sense of peace, adventure, and intimacy as you share this untouched wilderness with the person you love. Every moment of your elopement in Senja feels deeply personal, wild, and uniquely yours.
Lyngen Alps
Eloping in the Lyngen Alps is truly an unforgettable experience, where every step feels like an adventure. Surrounded by towering peaks that seem to pierce the sky and the shimmering waters of the Lyngenfjord below, it’s a place that combines both serenity and excitement. The raw beauty of Lyngen isn’t just for your vows—you can also explore by skiing, glacier hiking, or even joining a whale-watching safari. The air is crisp and invigorating, heightening the sense of connection with both nature and your lover.
Lyngen Alps is the kind of place where every breath feels like a celebration of life, and every view makes the moment feel infinite. Whether it’s the silence of a remote trail or the thrill of skiing down a mountain, the Lyngen Alps turn your day into deeply personal moments.
Jotunheimen National Park
Jotunheimen National Park also called “Home of the Giants” with the tallest peaks of the country, including Galdhøpiggen, the highest mountain in Northern Europe. Jotunheimen National Park is rich in beautiful lakes, and wondrous glaciers, and is filled to the brim with gorgeous trails and tracks, offering spectacular sceneries and epic views. This place is one of our most favorites locations to elope if you want to tie the knot in the heart of unspoiled nature.
Jostedalsbreen National Park
Jostedalsbreen National Park is located in the Western part of the country and is home to the largest glacier in the EU mainland, the Jostedalsbreen Glacier. You can find a lot of secret spots and hidden gems in Jostedalsbreen National Park as its sheer size and scale are awe-inspiring, stretching across rugged mountains, deep valleys, showcasing legendary fjords, picturesque lakes, and vast meadows, crisscrossed with streams and rivers.
Rytentopp
Rytentopp is a 7km round-trip hike, but you don’t have to walk the whole way to have a jaw-dropping view for your ceremony. You can see the Norwegian Sea, deep blue lakes, and green hills around. The place looks especially beautiful when the mountain peaks are covered in snow. However, the best time for the Rytentopp eloping experience is definitely summertime – from June until the end of August.
Flakstad Beach
Flakstad Beach is a must-visit destination for the couples in love who want incredible photographs in the untamed wilderness nature. It’s hands down one of the most unique beaches of the numerous in the Lofoten Islands.
Nærøyfjord
Nærøyfjord is world-known for its dramatic beauty, deep seas with steep lands, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear waters creating a unique backdrop for your day. Nærøyfjord has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and when you come there you instantly understand why.
While the Nærøyfjord is undeniably stunning, it may not be the best choice for an intimate eloping due to its insane popularity among tourists. Instead, go higher into the mountains or explore one of lesser-known fjords, where you can enjoy the same breathtaking beauty but stay completely private and secluded.
Best Fjord Wedding Locations
We’re deeply in love with Norway because of its incredible nature and, of course, its unique and majestic fjords, some of which were even included UNESCO list of heritage sites. Can you imagine, that you can plan an epic fjord elopement here?! I mean, how cool is that?!
Here are some of our favorite Norwegian fjords to elope:
Lake elopement locations
Norwegian lakes are perfect locations, offering tranquil waters and stunning mountain views. Many of these serene lakes are easily accessible, making them great for couples who want gorgeous scenery without the need for a hike. Just imagine saying your vows by the water of one of these magnificent lakes. There are almost half of a million lakes here, so be sure – every couple will find their favorite spot!
Here are some of our favorite lakes in Norway:
Unique Elopement Activities & Experiences
Elope in the Skies with Loen Skylift
Getting to the top of Mount Haven with a Loen Skylift is an exceptional and worry-free eloping experience. With the cable car taking you 1,011 meters to the top of Mount Hoven, you can exchange vows with breathtaking panoramic views of the fjords, lakes, and mountains surrounding you. And you won’t even sweat in your beautiful attire! I mean, how cool is that?!
A ticket to the top of Mount Haven will cost you only 495 NOK (roughly $45 USD) for a round trip per person.
Book A Wildlife Tour
Norway is home to incredible wildlife, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking a guided wildlife safari tour. These tours allow you to see animals in the wild, with expert guides who know the best spots to find them and do it safely.
In the Ocean, you can spot sperm whales, and with a bit of luck, you may also see humpback whales, dolphins, and even killer whales.
On land, you can meet musk oxen, moose, reindeer, and a variety of unique birds.
Pro Tip: Always remember to respect the animals by keeping your distance and avoiding direct encounters unless you’re with a guide.
Row a Boat at one of 450.000 Lakes
It’s a country with countless freshwater lakes, to be exact, there are at least 450.000 of them. Just imagine rowing an old-school wooden boat at Lovatn Lake! You’ll enjoy quiet moments together, surrounded by the landscapes, with the mountain peaks and pines around you, creating memories you’ll never forget.
What a classy, peaceful, yet adventurous way to celebrate your love!
What is the Best Time for Eloping in Norway?
Summer Elopements
Summer (June – August) is the best time to elope from our experience: all the locations are easy to reach and available, while the midnight sun gives us enough time for any plans and various outdoor activities.
Fall Elopements
Fall (September – October) is our favorite season in the land of Vikings! The colors are gorgeous, the weather is still fine and there are no such crowds as during the peak season. Although it’s a wild card in terms of the unpredictability of the weather, it’s also our secret weapon while planning an ultimately beautiful & special day.
Winter Elopements
Winter (November – April) has its charm too. You can see majestic mountains worn in white fur, the amazing Aurora Borealis, and of course, enjoy a lot of winter sports. However, if you’re not a huge fan of cold – we definitely don’t recommend winter for eloping in that case.
Spring Elopements
Spring (May – June) is great for intimate elopements, you can enjoy more privacy and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Prices will be much more affordable this time of the year as well.
What do You Need to Get Married In Norway?
Legal requirements to get Married in Norway if you’re a Foreigner (For Example, US Citizen)
To get legally married in Norway, both locals and foreign couples must fulfill certain requirements, which can be found on the Norwegian Tax Administration website, but here’s the short version:
- Age Requirement:
Both parties must be 18 years or older. - Residency Requirement:
While legal residence in Norway isn’t required for foreigners, you must have stayed in the country for at least 7 days prior to the ceremony. - Original Documents:
1. Each of you needs to provide separate personal declarations.
2. Statement from the sponsor, which requires two witnesses – one from each side. (The witnesses do not have to be present at the ceremony).
3. Declaration regarding the division, if either of you have been previously married.
4. Documentation proving your name, age, and citizenship of both parties, such as a passport or birth certificate.
5. A certificate of no impediments to your marriage. This certificate must be no more than four months old, original, and either legalized or endorsed with an apostille.
6. Non-Nordic citizens need to provide documents proving that they are legally residing in Norway. - Application Process:
All required documents must be submitted to the Norwegian Tax Administration, which can take up to 6 weeks for processing. It’s recommended to submit everything at least 4 months in advance to allow for any corrections or additional paperwork - Post-Wedding Paperwork: After the ceremony, the officiant submits documentation to the Norwegian Tax Administration, and you will receive your official marriage certificate
LGBTQ Weddings and Elopements in Norway
Norway was one of the first countries to accept anti-discrimination laws and introduced gender-neutral marriage rules in 2009. It is widely known as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world. So, the great news is that if you are planning an LGBTQ+ elopement – getting married here is the right choice!
It’s a marriage destination where love is love, no matter what gender, sexual orientation, skin color, or body shape you are!
Best Norway Wedding Venues & Airbnbs for Your Elopement
We’ve made a comprehensive list of unique Norway wedding venues, starting from old classy hotels of Oslo and boutique camps to the unique glass lodges and fisherman Airbnb houses ideal for Aurora watching. You hardly need an experienced planner to make it happen!
We’ve been to almost each of these accommodations, so we’ll be happy to share our piece of experience with all of you.
Here is a list of our favorite wedding venues and unique Airbnbs to elope:
Grand Hotel Oslo
Villa Bryggekanten
Kabelvåg Feriehus & Camping
Svinøya Rorbuer
Nusfjord Arctic Resort
Panorama Luxury House
Lofoten Home
What is the Average Cost of a Wedding Venue in Norway?
Norway can propose a wide variety of unique wedding venues, ranging from boutique hotels with distinctive architecture to exclusive mountain resorts and luxurious spa hotels. The typical price for a venue can range from $4,000 to $7,000 (including VAT), and the reception price is around $300 per invited guest.
A Few Tips When Travelling to Norway
Dress in layers
The weather here is unpredictable, so wear waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm clothing, and sturdy footwear, especially for hiking.
Hire a guide for challenging hikes
For difficult hiking tracks, hire a professional local guide and always check weather conditions beforehand.
Budget for high prices
Norway is known for its high costs, so save money by staying in budget accommodations and cooking your meals.
Follow Leave No Trace principles
While outdoors, stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and protect the environment.
Get travel insurance
Ensure you have travel insurance to cover unexpected illnesses or injuries.
How to get to Norway?
The best airports to fly into are Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø, or Stavanger. You can get flights to these locations from major airlines like SAS, Norwegian, and Lufthansa.
Travel Times and Connections
From the US:
Flying from the US usually includes one layover in places like London, Copenhagen, or Frankfurt. For example, flying from New York (JFK) to Oslo (OSL) might involve a 7-hour flight to London, a 2-hour layover, and then a 2-hour flight to Oslo. In total, the trip usually takes around 10 to 12 hours. Common airlines for this route are SAS, Delta, and British Airways.
From Europe:
There are many direct flights from European cities. For instance, a flight from London to Oslo is around 2 hours, and from Paris to Bergen it’s about 2.5 hours. Airlines like Norwegian, Ryanair, and SAS mainly operate here.
From Australia/New Zealand:
Traveling from Australia or New Zealand requires several layovers. A trip from Sydney to Oslo might start with a 9-hour flight to Singapore, a 2-hour layover, then a 12-hour flight to London or Copenhagen, followed by a 2-hour flight to Oslo. The total travel time is usually 24 to 28 hours. Popular airlines for this route include Qantas, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Norway?
It’s well-known that all Scandinavian countries are fairly expensive countries. The cost can vary widely based on several factors, such as the season, location, and the services you choose. The average cost of a destination wedding or elopement in Norway is $18,900 USD based on our rough calculations below.
There you’ll find a breakdown of estimated costs, focused on just the two of you. Keep in mind that we haven’t included flights, as those can differ significantly based on your starting point.
Norway Budget Elopement Cost
The average cost of a budget elopement is $8,450, which includes:
- Marriage license (symbolic ceremony): $0
- Accommodation: $300
- Car rental: $200
- Hair + make-up: $0 (DIY)
- Attire: $1000
- Bouquet: $250
- Fancy celebration dinner: $200
- Photographer (8 hours coverage): $6,500
Norway Luxury DestinatioN Wedding Cost
The average cost of a luxury destination wedding is $29,350, which includes:
- Marriage license (symbolic ceremony): $350
- Accommodation: $1000+
- Car rental: $600+
- Hair + make-up: $500+
- Attire: $3000
- Bouquet: $400
- Wedding venue: $4000+
- Planner: $2000+
- Helicopter private tour: $2500
- Photographer (12 hours coverage): $9,000+
- Videographer (12 hours coverage): $6,000+
Norway Elopement Packages
Prices for our Elopement Photography Packages start at 6000 Euros and depend on the amount of working time & add-ons you will choose. All of the packages include:
- Planning guidance
- Handcrafted locations
- Custom itinerary of the day
- Digital photography with full printing rights
- Drone photography coverage
- All photography packages include travel and other fees
Prices START at €6000
Your Norway Elopement Photographer
Hey, we’re Tony & Jane, adventure elopement photographers serving in Norway.
We started our journey together 15 years ago and haven’t been apart since then. Our adventures among the Nordic fjords have shaped and strengthened our relationship in ways only the wild outdoors can.
Jane is the only elopement photographer serving in Norway who got 11 Junebug’s Best of the Best awards – the world’s biggest wedding photography competition. We’ve got numerous features in the world’s largest media, such as GWS, Ruffled, 100 Layered Cake, Cosmopolitan, Huffington Post, and many others. Read more about us here.
More to add, Tony is an experienced and licensed drone pilot who captures the breathtaking scale of the incredible fjords and mountain peaks with his flying friend (and not only it!). This makes us all a unique destination elopement photography team.
Norway Wedding & Elopement Stories
Check these inspiring photo galleries of the unique experiences we helped to craft. Each of them includes award-winning photography, a story of the day & useful tips and advice.
Get In Touch
If you’re looking for a photographer and you connect with our work, we would love to hear from you! Please allow 48 hours for a response.
Together with Tony Iskra, they are ISKRA Photography - a husband & wife duo shooting in Iceland and beyond.
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