How to Elope in the Dolomites The Epic Way – the Ultimate Guide for 2025
DOLOMITES ELOPEMENT GUIDE FOR 2025/2026
We’ve created the ultimate guide on how to elope in the Italian Dolomites, one of the most well-known locations for eloping in Europe and hands down one of the best to elope in Italy! Whatever you’re seeking, our informative guide has everything you need to plan your perfect day!
Why choose us? We’ve captured countless adventure ceremonies & hiking elopements in the Dolomites and around the world and will be happy to be your eloping team!
Scroll down for all the details on eloping in the Dolomites, and feel free to reach out if you need any assistance. Check out our Italian elopement packages for pricing and contact us to inquire about your date!
Everything you need to know before eloping in the Dolomites
5 Reasons to Elope in the Dolomites
Why plan a Dolomites Wedding
The Italian Dolomites are renowned for their jaw-dropping scenery, adventure opportunities, and the chance to experience an intimate ceremony. We have been able to scout some of the most exclusive locations to elope during the last 8 years. From well-known spots that showcase the region’s stunning beauty to more off-the-beaten-path destinations – Dolomites has them all. Some locations are easily accessible, while others require more effort. We will help you navigate the Dolomite’s most iconic spots and ensure you’ll have the best experience.
Not enough reasons to elope the Dolomites?! Here are more:
- Eloping in the Italian Dolomites makes it easy for a more personal, private ceremony, away from the crowds, so you can focus entirely on each other.
- The Dolomites are stunning in every season, from snowy winter wonderlands to vibrant summer landscapes, making it a perfect elopement destination any time of year.
- The Dolomites are home to luxury resorts and spa retreats, perfect for relaxing before or after eloping in Dolomites in style.
- Whether you love hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying nature, the Dolomites offer endless adventures combined with romantic moments.
- If you’re a food enthusiast, Italy is a paradise. The country offers everything from gourmet cheeses and cured meats to world-class pizza and gelato. Every visit is a feast, and you’ll be blown away by the variety of flavors!
Why to plan to elope in Italian Dolomites
Unique Elopement Activities in the Dolomites
Best way to get married in the Dolomites
For adventurous couples, the Dolomites offer a vast range of activities depending on your destination and the time of year to make your day unforgettable. Here are a few of our favorite adventure elopement experiences that can make your day truly unique and special.
Helicopter Elopements in the Dolomites
For those who want to see and go places few can, planning a Dolomites helicopter wedding tour may be a perfect choice. You can reach the unique locations for your Dolomites elopement photos, which are reachable only by a heli. Whether it’s a single location or multiple landing spots, Elikos Helicopterservice does a great job. Daniel & Titus are our favorite pilots – passionate about the Dolomites and sharing it with their passengers. Booking a private helicopter tour for weddings and elopements costs between €1,800-€2,500 (50-90 minutes long).
Spend the Night High in the Mountains
All over the Dolomites, you’ll find traditional mountain huts called rifugios, hidden in valleys or sitting on mountain tops. These huts can be either basic or pretty fancy, giving you a special way to experience the mountains. Plan a wellness day and take a hot tub high in the mountains at Rifugio Lagazuoi, or stay at the iconic Rifugio Auronzo to see the most beautiful sunrise above the clouds at the iconic Cadini di Misruina peaks.
Row a Boat at the Alpine Lake
Picture rowing a boat on a clear Alpine lake during your elopement in the Dolomites. With the mountains all around you and calm waters, it’s a peaceful and romantic way to celebrate. Whether it’s Pragser Wildsee, Lago di Misruina, or another alpine lake, this simple yet classy adventure can make your elopement day even more memorable. You’ll enjoy quiet moments together, surrounded by nature, creating memories you’ll never forget.
Book a Scenic Horse Riding Tour Around the Dolomites
Think about booking a scenic horse riding tour through the stunning Dolomites during your elopement. This unique experience lets you explore the beauty of the mountains in a relaxing and memorable way. Whether you’re trotting along trails or reaching the panoramic spots, a horse riding tour adds a special touch to your elopement day.
Plan a Winter Wedding in the Dolomites
Turn your winter wedding into a skiing or snowboarding adventure in the Dolomites. Just imagine yourselves gliding down snowy slopes with breathtaking mountain views as the most epic backdrop to your celebration. After your vows, embrace the thrill of the slopes or unwind with a cozy après-ski! If you’re a skiing or snowboarding fan – is there any better way to celebrate your wedding day?
Getting Married in Italy as a Foreigner
Can I get married in the Dolomites as a foreigner?
Yes, of course you can! Italy allows foreign couples to have a legal ceremony, either through a religious or civil ceremony. Italy is one of the easiest countries to get legally married in Europe as a foreigner. However, there are some requirements and steps you need to follow to ensure a smooth process.
Elopement in Dolomites
Elope Dolomites – legal questions
Legal Requirements for Your Dolomites Wedding
Age Requirements:
Both parties must be 18 years or older.
Valid Passports:
Both parties must have valid passports.
Birth Certificates:
Original or certified copies are required.
Certificate of No Impediment:
Certificate of No Impediment needed, proving that you are free to marry, must be obtained from your home country.
Marital Status Certificate:
Bear in mind, that the Marital Status certificate is only valid for 4 months after it has been issued. If either party is divorced, a final divorce decree is necessary. If widowed, the death certificate of the former spouse is required.
Marriage Declaration:
Marriage Declaration at the town hall in Italy where plan a ceremony.
A Nulla Osta:
A Nulla Osta (permission to get married in Italy).
You need to do this several months in advance, delivering the papers to the local authorities of the town where you will marry. Requirements might differ slightly by your nationality. Here are the Legal requirements for citizens of the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Singapore.
You can have a civil ceremony at the local town hall or a religious ceremony at a church, depending on your preference. Some locations might also allow outdoor ceremonies in designated areas with prior approval.
Civil marriages in the Dolomites
In the Italian Dolomites, civil marriage ceremonies are conducted by local officials and typically involve a straightforward process. Unlike some other locations, there’s no centralized application system, so requirements can vary slightly depending on the municipality where you plan to marry. You’ll need to contact the local municipal office (Comune) where you wish to hold the ceremony. The ceremony itself is often free, though there may be some administrative fees.
From our experience, only a few couples choose to legally marry in the Dolomites. They all worked with professional wedding officiants to handle all the legalities, but even with this kind of help, the process was quite complicated. All the couples have said that if they could do it over again, they would opt for a symbolic ceremony in Italy and take care of the legal paperwork back home. In fact, more than 90% of couples eloping in the Dolomites with us choose this path. This approach simplifies the process and lets them focus on the beauty of their special day in iconic locations like Cadini di Misurina or Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
LGBTQ Weddings in the Dolomites
Italy has recognized same-sex civil unions since 2016 but has not yet fully legalized LGBTQ+ marriages. If you want to have a civil ceremony – we strongly recommend an elopement in Iceland! For LGBTQ+ couples committed to eloping in the Dolomites, we recommend completing the legal paperwork in your home country. You can still come to the Dolomites to have a symbolic vow ceremony with stunning views!
Symbolic Ceremonies in the Dolomites
For foreign couples traveling to elope in the Dolomites, we recommend choosing a symbolic ceremony and handling the legal paperwork back in your home country. A symbolic ceremony, or commitment ceremony, gives you the freedom to plan your day exactly how you want it and provides more flexibility with your elopement schedule. Anyone can have a symbolic elopement ceremony in the stunning Dolomites!
The Most Popular Places to Elope in the Dolomites
Unique elopement locations in the Dolomites
Eloping at Cadini di Misurina
Eloping at Cadini di Misurina offers stunning views and a dramatic backdrop, surrounded by sharp peaks. The iconic viewpoint can be reached by a steep hiking trail, which can get quite busy, especially in the summer, so we don’t recommend it as the ceremony spot. However, it’s still worth the hike for breathtaking photographs at Cadini di Misurina. For the best experience, avoid the peak season and consider eloping between mid-June to mid-July or all of September.
Keep in mind that the serpentine road leading to Cadini di Misurina has no winter service and is normally open from June until October.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo Elopements
Tre Cime di Lavaredo or the 3 Peaks is known for its iconic views, these three towering peaks stand out against the sky. Absolutely an iconic place, providing a magnificent setting at sunrise or sunset. Our main pick will be coming here during the golden hour before the sunset, just because the light there would be in the right direction and we’ll be also able to have some amazing frames at dusk, which is our favorite time. There is a fee of €30 to enter the road leading to the Rifugio Auronzo parking, where we start our hike.
Worth being mentioned, that the road to Tre Cime di Lavaredo has no winter service and is normally open from June until October (can vary depending on the amount if snow).
Elopements at Pragser Wildsee
Pragser Wildsee is a stunning elopement spot in the Dolomites, known for its deep blue water, dramatic mountains, and charming boathouse. Couples often rent the boathouse for a 90-minute session, costing €400. This includes exclusive use of the boathouse and two rowboats, with sessions available in the morning before public hours from May to November. Note that although you have exclusive use of the boathouse, other visitors can still be visible from the shore, and there have been cases of people trying to get onto the boathouse for photos. For a truly private experience, consider saving your vows somewhere more secluded.
Eloping at Passo Giau
Passo Giau features rolling hills and 360-degree mountain views. Absolute banger. It’s less crowded, providing privacy for your intimate ceremony, especially at the sunsets. It’s our second favorite mountain pass with mindblowing views. There is no fee to get there and a second bonus – you don’t even need to hike! It’s easily accessible by car. It’s one of the best places for an intimate ceremony in the Dolomites!
Cinque Torri Elopements
Cinque Torri is an absolute gem with its iconic rock formations and panoramic mountain views. This spot offers a unique, dramatic backdrop that’s perfect for your elopement. It’s less crowded, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons, giving you the privacy you need for those special moments. While you can hike to Cinque Torri for the full experience, it’s also accessible by car or cable car, making it easy to reach.
Eloping at Seceda
This spot is famous for its jaw-dropping panoramic views. With green slopes and cliffs, it’s ideal for a summer or fall ceremony. It’s a pretty vast spot and whether you choose to come there at sunrise or sunset – we’ll be able to find a secluded spot for an intimate vow ceremony. It’s comparably easy to get to Seceda – the first one is the cableway Ortisei-Furnes and after – the cableway Furnes-Seceda. The cost of the roundup trip is €40 per person. No hike is needed after – it’s a light walk of around 15-20 minutes from the cableway station. To have some extra privacy, we recommend staying in a rifugio and heading for a ceremony at sunrise before the working hours of the cable car.
Alpi di Siusi (Seiser Alm) Elopements
Alpi di Siusi, or Seiser Alm is a truly idyllic elopement location. As Europe’s largest high-altitude Alpine meadow, it offers breathtaking views of the Dolomites and lush meadows. In summer, the vibrant wildflowers create a stunning backdrop, while in winter, the snow-covered landscape adds a special touch. For an elopement at Alpe di Siusi, it’s best to head out even before sunrise to have some secludedness. The hike from the parking lot takes about an hour. Keep in mind that driving to many parking areas is restricted between 9am and 5pm.
The Best Places to Elope in the Dolomites
11 Top Mountain Pass Elopement Locations in the Dolomites
As mentioned above, we’re deeply in love with the Italian Dolomites because of their out-of-this-world beauty and various activities fitting any kind of physical abilities. Mountain passes in the Dolomites are a kind of cheat way to reach absolutely mindblowing spots without a hike required – you can simply reach the mountain pass by car to enjoy the sunrise or sunset private ceremony with little or no effort.
Here is the list of passes to elope on in the Dolomites:
- Passo Rolle
- Würzjoch Pass
- Campolongo Pass
- Furkel Pass
- Stelvio Pass
- Passo Falzarego
- Passo Pordoi
- Passo Giau
- Passo Fedaia
- Passo Valparola
- Passo Gardena
Lake Elopement Locations in the Dolomites
Lakes in the Dolomites provide stunning locations for elopements, combining serene waters with breathtaking mountain views. Many of these alpine lakes offer easy access, making them ideal for couples who want beautiful scenery without a hike. Whether you’re planning a peaceful sunrise ceremony by the water or capturing dramatic reflections of the peaks, the lake settings in the Dolomites deliver an unforgettable elopement experience.
Here are some of our favorite lakes in the Dolomites:
- Lago di Antorno
- Lago di Landro
- Laghi dei Piani
- Lago di Fedaia
- Lago di Tovel
- Lago di Carezza
- Lago di Federa
Dolomites Elopement Locations Accessible by Cable Car
If you’re not planning to hike during your elopement or adventure wedding, but still want to have stunning photos with scenic mountain backdrops, we recommend checking these elopement locations in the Dolomites:
- Lagazuoi
- Seceda
- Marmolada
- 5 Torri
- Funivia Piz Boè
- Terrazza delle Dolomiti
Best time to get married in the Italian Alps
When to Elope in the Dolomites?
Summer Elopements in the Dolomites
We strongly believe, that summer, from June to September, is the best time to elope in the Dolomites. The weather is warm and stable, the days are long, and all the main sites are easily accessible. However, it’s also when the Dolomites are busiest, especially the most famous spots and we will all need to plan the itinerary of the shoot very thoroughly to escape crowds.
Fall Dolomites Elopements
Autumn, October, and November bring out the Dolomites’ true golden tones and soul. The forests and valleys burst into vibrant colors. The weather is still mild, the lakes normally aren’t covered with ice yet, and the days are long enough to enjoy everything the Dolomites have to offer. It’s our second favorite time of year to elope in Dolomites.
Winter Eloping in the Dolomites
Winter lasts from late November to March. If you dream of eloping in the Dolomites with snow and skiing activities, this is the perfect time! But remember many areas like mountain passes and lakes, are inaccessible or completely frozen during this period.
Spring Dolomites Elopement
Spring brings new life to the Dolomites. As temperatures rise, snow melts, mountain trails open up, and flowers bloom all over the place! It’s a beautiful time for an elopement, especially if you choose your location wisely.
In early spring, higher elevations are still covered with snow, so it’s best to plan for later in the season. May is an ideal month, bridging spring and summer, offering great accessibility, nicer weather, and fewer tourists.
Where to Stay for your Elopement
Finding the perfect place to stay in the Dolomites is easy, with options from cozy AirBnBs to luxury hotels and mountain rifugios (hotels), that promise an unforgettable experience for your elopement. Here is our top:
- Mi Chalet – Mi Chalet is a luxurious chalet located in La Villa, Italy, nestled amidst the stunning Dolomites mountain range. It’s designed specifically for couples seeking a romantic getaway, offering an exclusive and private escape. Wake up to panoramic mountain vistas every morning.
- Hotel Fanes San Cassiano – Known for its top-notch service and elegant rooms, Hotel Fanes adds a touch of luxury to your elopement experience. Enjoy gourmet Italian cuisine at their restaurant.
- Chalet Rönn – Chalet Rönn, situated in the heart of the stunning Dolomites in South Tyrol, offers a captivating elopement destination for couples seeking an intimate and unforgettable start to their married life.
- Mountain Chalet Pia – Experience authentic alpine living in these charming chalets. They feature rustic decor and provide easy access to scenic nature trails.
- Caravan Park Sexten Treehouses – For something truly unique, stay in a treehouse! The treehouses are a unique glamping experience that allows guests to stay amidst the beauty of the Dolomites.
Where to fly into dolomites for your elopement?
The closest airports to the Italian Dolomites are Venice, Milan, Munich, and Innsbruck. Here are the air companies that will get you to the Dolomites from these connections: Lufthansa, EasyJet, and Austrian Airlines. The region is just a few hours’ drive from several major European cities, or you can take a short flight followed by a picturesque drive. For travelers from the USA and Canada, a layover in Europe is usually necessary, but the trip can typically be completed within a day.
Travel Times and Connections
From the US:
Reaching the Dolomites from the US typically involves at least one layover, often in European cities like Munich, Milan, or Venice. For instance, a journey from New York (JFK) to Bolzano might include an 8-hour flight to Munich (MUC), followed by a 2 to 3-hour layover, and a 1-hour connecting flight to Bolzano (BZO). The total travel time is usually around 11 to 13 hours. Airlines commonly used for this route include Lufthansa, Delta, and Alitalia.
From Europe:
There are direct flights to airports near the Dolomites from several major European cities. For example, a flight from Munich to Bolzano takes approximately 1 hour, while traveling from Venice (VCE) to Bolzano involves a 2-hour drive, and from Milan (MXP), it’s about a 3-hour drive or a brief connecting flight. Car rentals are a popular option for the final leg, with airlines like Lufthansa, EasyJet, and Ryanair offering flights to nearby hubs.
From Australia/New Zealand:
Traveling to the Dolomites from Australia or New Zealand generally requires multiple layovers. For example, a trip from Sydney to Bolzano may start with a 9-hour flight to Singapore, followed by a 2 to 3-hour layover, a 12-hour flight to Munich, another 2 to 3-hour layover, and finally, a 1-hour flight to Bolzano. The total travel time usually ranges between 25 to 28 hours. Airlines such as Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Lufthansa are frequently chosen for these routes.
PRO Tip: When planning to elope in the Dolomites, the usual 1-2 year advance booking timeline for traditional marriages may not apply. It’s important to secure key vendors early, focusing on travel arrangements within a year of the event. Some venues and hotels may not confirm bookings over 12 months in advance. We have experience booking dates up to 2 years ahead and helping couples plan to elope in the Dolomites in just 1 month!
Useful Tips for your Trip to the Dolomites
Monitor Flight Deals
Use websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to set up price alerts for flights to the Dolomites. This helps you catch deals and book flights at the best price. Booking early often results in better deals, as flights can be expensive.
Plan for Shoulder Seasons
Visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) offers a more peaceful experience with fewer tourists. The weather is still relatively mild, allowing you to enjoy the stunning landscapes without the peak-season crowds.
Pack Smartly
The weather in the Dolomites can change quickly, so pack layers to stay comfortable. Don’t forget a waterproof jacket and good hiking boots. Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sunny days, and also gloves and a warm hat for cooler weather.
Check for New Routes
Look out for new flight routes or direct connections to airports near the Dolomites. Airlines sometimes add new options that might make your trip easier and cheaper. If flying isn’t ideal, consider scenic train rides from major Italian cities for a beautiful journey.
Stay Connected
Getting a local SIM card can be an affordable way to stay in touch. Alternatively, check if your phone plan offers good international rates. Many places like hotels, cafes, and public spots have free Wi-Fi, so you can easily keep in touch with family and friends or share your adventures online.
Enjoy Your Day
The Dolomites are a perfect spot for relaxation and natural beauty. Take enough time to enjoy the amazing views, connect with nature, and savor every moment of your special day in this breathtaking mountain setting!
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in the Dolomites?
The Dolomites are not a pricey destination for eloping. A typical price of a wedding taking part in the USA in 2024 will be between $33,000 and $35,000, and in big cities, it can be an even larger sum! Instead, elopement in the Dolomites can cost you around half of this sum!
Here are the approximate prices of eloping in the Dolomites in 2025 – $17,800:
- Round trip economy flights for 2 adults: $1,200
- 5 nights at the hotel: $1,500
- A full day of photographer work: $7,000
- Videography: $4,000
- 5 days of car rental: $600
- Hair + make-up: $500
- Outfits: $2,500
- Bouquet: $300
- A fancy celebration dinner: $200
Total Cost: $17,800
Here’s how we guide you in crafting the untold moments of your elopement experience
What’s Included in All Our Dolomites Elopement Packages
Experience Over Images
When you look at your elopement photos, we want them to tell a story – the story of the day you promised each other forever, the love you shared, and the adventures you embarked on together. If you truly feel those moments, that emotion will shine through in the photos. That’s what matters most to us.
Unlimited Guidance & Resources
We’ll provide personalized consultations and planning assistance, helping you with everything from picking the perfect spots and activities to creating your timeline, packing checklists, and ceremony ideas, and suggesting reliable vendors.
As passionate travelers and hikers, we’re here to assist with scouting locations, researching permits if needed, finding unique accommodations, and discovering hidden treasures.
Award-winning photography with a decade of experience
We’re the only photography & videography professionals in the region to have won the world’s biggest photography competition, Junebug Best of the Best, 11 times! You can read more about it here.
We’re also experienced, licensed drone pilots, and we actively use drones in our work to capture the breathtaking scale of the incredible Dolomites.
No Additional or Travel fees
All travel expenses are covered within each package, allowing us to reach all the dream locations you have in mind. Our all-inclusive pricing ensures you don’t have to stress about inflation, fluctuating airfare, or gas prices.
No additional charges. No hidden costs.
Dolomites Elopement Packages + Pricing
Prices for our Dolomites Photography Packages start at 5500 Euros and depend on the amount of working time & add-ons you will choose. All of the packages include:
- Planning guidance
- Handcrafted elopement 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 €5.500
Testimonials
STORYTELLERS
Adventurers
Your Friends
We are Jane & Anton Iskra – award-winning adventure elopement & wedding experts.
Here on our website, you can see our vision of work and if our tastes match – we will be happy to share the emotions of your special day and make a story of your love and adventure with the one-of-a-kind backdrop of gorgeous Italian Dolomites!
We sincerely hope we’ll get the opportunity to capture your story!
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Together with Tony Iskra, they are ISKRA Photography - a husband & wife duo shooting in Iceland and beyond.
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