The Ultimate Iceland Elopement Guide for 2025
Iceland Elopement Guide for 2025-2026
Everything you need to plan your Iceland Elopement
Dreaming about a magical Iceland Elopement experience? Well… you’re in the right place! This ultimate and complete elopement guide is made for you, adventure-seeking souls, looking to elope in Iceland.
We have a strong feeling that Iceland has everything to offer for you, adventure lovers looking for eternal views and an adventure, and the most unique elopement experience. We’re proud to call Iceland our second home, and after traveling the whole island far and wide, we decided to share this 10-year experience with all of you.
What makes this guide special? We are seasoned and awarded elopement photographers who have helped more than 300 couples from around the world bring their Iceland elopement dreams to life.
In this Ultimate Guide, we shared many insider tips you won’t find on Google: from what it really costs to elope in Iceland, to how to avoid the crowds, to some most hidden and secret ceremony spots you’ve probably never heard of.
Let’s plan your adventure of a lifetime — and make your day feel just like you.
8 steps of Planning your Iceland Elopement
- Choose your elopement locations
- Choose the season for your Iceland elopement
- Understand the legalities and gather documents to get married (including step-by-step instructions)
- Understand your budget
- Plan your travel (plane tickets, car rental, currency, and more)
- Book your accommodation or wedding venue
- Book your activities
- Iceland elopement packages
Why Should you Elope in Iceland?
5 reasons for your Iceland elopement
As elopements have grown exponentially since we photographed our first one in 2016, Iceland elopements basically put adventurous elopements on the map. In our (completely unbiased) opinion, Iceland is, undoubtfully, one of the best places in the world to elope. Couples from the USA, China, Canada, and even Australia (this is all our own experience) travel across the globe to say their vows here, and here’s why they all chose Iceland:
- Epic and Diverse Nature. Iceland has all kinds of natural landscapes possible – waterfalls, canyons, glaciers, hot springs, ice caves! Choosing tying a knot here, you won’t need to choose – you can have ’em all! All within a couple of hours’ driving between locations! Choosing Iceland for your elopement, you can even choose Hollywood movie locations to have your wedding pictures at! Sounds like an ultimate elopement playground, right?!
- Privacy and Intimacy. Yes, you heard us right! Despite the common knowledge (and objective reality) that Iceland is over-touristy, you can still have an intimate elopement experience in Iceland. With so many wide-open spaces, hidden and harder-to-reach locations, Iceland is perfect for couples seeking a deeply personal elopement experience away from crowds (don’t worry, we’ll take you somewhere truly off the radar!).
- Safeness and Inclusivity. Iceland is the safest country in the world to travel to, and on top of that, LGBTQ+ marriage is not only legal but also welcomed here. No matter the gender, skin color, or body shape, Iceland warmly welcomes you to celebrate your love!
- Simple Legal Requirements. Compared to many other destinations, legal marriage is pretty straightforward for foreigners. No minimal residency period or icelandic citizenship required.
- Northern Lights and Midnight Sun. If you’ve never witnessed the Midnight Sun, Iceland can gift you the unforgettable experience of an endless sunset that lasts for hours in summertime. Eloping in Iceland or Norway, you can see the Northern Lights and trust us, it’s a unique experience creating core memories you’ll never forget!
The Best Places to Elope in Iceland
Fun thing is that it’s hard to choose your special place in Iceland! Sounds wild, right?! It’s because there are no bad spots here. Every corner of Iceland is just perfect – from jet-black volcanic beaches and massive waterfalls, to the misty grassy canyons and hidden thermal pools, it can make you feel overwhelmed feeling like a child in the candy shop. And because we believe that ceremonies and elopements should feel secluded and private, we never recommend Reynisfjara or Seljalandsfoss (unless the couple is raving to have photos there) as your ceremony spot. Instead, we always choose locations according to the type of landscape the couple loves most, how adventurous they feel (if they’re up for a hike to reach their ceremony location, or will it be more of a super-jeep expedition?!), and how secluded and private they want to feel on their day. No matter what you choose, we promise to get you covered! We have dozens (even closer to a hundred) of all kinds and types of locations scouted, and here are only some of them to look at while planning your Iceland elopement adventure.
Búðir Black Church (Búðakirkja)
A tiny little wooden black church situated within a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavik, among lava fields and golden beaches of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. It’s one of the most iconic and popular places for micro-weddings in Iceland. Though it was built in 1848, it is still in service. You can have a beautiful ceremony in the church (with up to 40 guests seated in the church) and have a reception at the hotel Budir nearby.
Check out a beautiful Iceland elopement from Budir church and hotel.
Best for: Traditional Icelandic ceremonies and secluded elopements.
Privacy/Seclusion: Moderate; it’s a popular photography spot, but for the ceremonies in the church, the whole location will be reserved for you.
The best months to elope: June to September.
💡Pro Tip – Don’t miss booking a room in the Budir Hotel for your getting-ready photos of your elopement day and a fancy-ass celebration dinner. You’ll be amazed by the stylish interiors and outstanding local cuisine.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara is the most famous black sand beach in Iceland, with huge basalt columns and structures. It’s easily reachable by car, being situated on the Southern coast within 3 hours of driving from Reykjavik. Reynisfjara Beach saw approximately 133,000 tourists in only the first half of 2022 alone – and this is the flip side of the popularity of this amazing place.
Don’t miss this intimate elopement at Reynisfjara, we shot in wintertime.
Best for: Bold, dramatic coastal vibes, basalt caves, and fantastic sunrises/sunsets.
Privacy/Seclusion: Very popular; not recommended for secluded elopements.
The best months to elope: May–September for warmer weather and October–January for fewer tourists.
💡Pro Tip – Beware of sneaker waves! Always stay well away from the waterline, so as not to get caught by the dangerous waves. Be extra careful with the red lights at the warning located at the beach entrance.
Arnarstapi Stone Bridge (Músagjá)
Músagjá is a natural stone arch set against the crashing waves and rugged cliffs of the Snæfellsnes coastline — wild, dramatic, and perfect for adventurous elopement portraits.
The famous basalt rock bridge is situated within a short 15-minute walk along the rugged cliffs from Arnarstapi village.
Check out a stunning rainbow elopement in Iceland at Arnarstapi.
Best for: Fantastic Atlantic Ocean and rugged coastline views.
Privacy/Seclusion: Moderate – mornings and weekdays deliver more privacy.
The best months to elope: May – September.
💡Pro Tip – Once planning to celebrate your love at Arnarstapi, be ready for hefty winds and super changeable weather, which is pretty often in the area.
Kirkjufell & Kirkjufellsfoss
Kirkjufell is one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland, the perfectly shaped mountain rising behind the beautiful Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall.
This iconic mountain was even filmed in several episodes of Game of Thrones! I mean, is there any more epic type of location for your Icelandic elopement?!
Best for: Classic Icelandic scenery with both mountain and waterfall views – all-in-one!
Privacy/Seclusion: Popular, but mornings and winter months are a win for secluded experiences.
The best months to elope: May, June, and September.
💡Pro Tip – For the best elopement portraits, have a small walk past the main area or even cross the road – there you’ll find quieter spots with amazing views of the mountain and the fjord.
Kvernufoss
Kvernufoss is a hidden waterfall situated in the south of Iceland. It is not far from the famous Skógafoss but is more secluded and serene. You can even walk behind the waterfall to get a very special, cinematic atmosphere for your elopement photographs.
Check this eternal Kvernufoss elopement in the South of Iceland.
Best for: Waterfall ceremonies and nature lovers.
Privacy/Seclusion: Moderate – not as busy as Skogafoss, but growing in popularity lately.
The best months to elope: May – September.
💡Pro Tip – Prepare good hiking boots — although the trail is short, it may be slippery, especially behind the waterfall.
DYRHOLAEY Ocean Cliff
Dyrhólaey cliff is one of the most iconic and highest cliffs in the south of Iceland. From there, you can see an outstanding panorama of the whole southern coast and get incredible sunset wedding photographs.
Oh, you need to check this beautiful destination wedding at Dyrholaey in Iceland.
Best for: Fantastic ocean views and epic sunset elopement portraits.
Privacy/Seclusion: Moderate – but much quieter at the sunrise/sunset.
The best months to elope: All year round.
💡Pro Tip – Dyrholaey is normally closed after 19:00 during the nesting season, from mid-May until the end of June every year, to protect birds and the environment.
Katla Ice Cave
Katla Ice Cave is a stunning natural ice cave hidden under the mighty Katla volcano in southern Iceland. Its size, colors, and tones of ice look jaw-dropping both in the wedding photos and in real life. Choosing Iceland means getting the ultimate unique locations for your ceremony.
Get inspired by this jaw-dropping Adventure Wedding at Katla Ice Cave.
Best for: Ice cave photographs and glacier walks.
Privacy/Seclusion: Moderate – a guided tour is required to get there.
The best months to elope: November–March, when the ice caves are the most stable and vibrant.
💡Pro Tip – Book a private Super Jeep tour to reach the glacier safely and have a more secluded elopement ceremony.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón is without a doubt one of the most touristy locations of Iceland, situated in the south-east: you’ll need to have a pretty long drive of 5 hours (!) from Reykjavik. It appeared naturally from the melting of a Vatnajökull – Iceland’s largest glacier, lying nearby. It’s a perfect place for fans of winter elopements, glaciers, and ice.
See this beautiful glacier elopement to get inspired!
Best for: Glaciers, Icebergs, and Ice Caves.
Privacy/Seclusion: Very popular all year round.
The best months to elope: May-September for milder weather, February–March for Ice Caves.
💡Pro Tip – Don’t miss the Diamond Beach nearby, where icebergs wash up on the black sand beach for even more epic elopement portraits.
Hidden Gem Elopement Locations in Iceland
It’s common knowledge that Iceland is super heavily touristic, especially in the high season! Don’t worry, though, you got us! We’ve scouted dozens of secret locations in Iceland and would be happy to share these 4 of them with you below (no worries, we’ve got more!). Why would you have to run away from crowds to get married in Iceland in peace?!
Haifoss Waterfall
Háifoss is one of the tallest and most hidden waterfalls of Iceland. It’s falling down straight to the beginning of a dramatic canyon surrounded by the untouched volcanic landscapes of the Icelandic Highlands. It’s one of our beloved locations in Iceland for intimate elopements.
This is what your Icelandic Highlands elopement at Haifoss can look like.
Best for: Unique Highland landscapes, volcanic areas, and secluded elopement experiences.
Privacy/Seclusion: Very secluded — Haifoss and the Highlands are a very remote area, one of the most difficult to get to and around.
The best months to elope: July to September, when the Highland roads (F-roads) are passable.
💡Pro Tip – A 4×4 or sometimes even a special Super-Jeep vehicle is required to safely reach most secluded and unique locations in the Highlands.
Stokksnes & Vestrahorn
Stokksnes is one of the most dramatic locations in Iceland (and secretly, one of our favourites!). Just imagine having black sand dunes, wild coastline, and the sharp peaks of Vestrahorn at your elopement photographs – all in one place! It’s another hidden gem just because there’s a whopping 6-hour drive from Reykjavik to get to the east of Iceland, where Stokksnes is located.
See the story of this epic Stokksnes elopement to get inspired!
Best for: Bold, moody landscapes and an epic atmosphere.
Privacy/Seclusion: Very quiet compared to South Coast spots, especially at the sunrise or during the shoulder season.
The best months to elope: All year round.
💡Pro Tip – The location is very vast, so we recommend entering with a car to see all the epic spots.
Þórsmörk (Thórsmörk)
A hidden valley named for the Norse God of Thunder (Yes, his name is Thor!) is located between glaciers and mountains. The whole valley is filled with intense glacial rivers and endless hiking trails. Thórsmörk is your best choice if you’re dreaming about an adventure elopement in Iceland!
You cannot miss this Thorsmork adventure micro wedding from Iceland.
Best for: Remote, storybook landscapes, and intimate elopements.
Privacy/Seclusion: Very secluded — it’s hard to reach, so you’ll often have the trails and views to yourselves.
The best months to elope: June–September, when it’s safer to cross rivers and hiking trails are accessible.
💡Pro Tip – You’ll need a Super Jeep or a guided ride — crossing the rivers into Thórsmörk is super dangerous if unprepared!
Akureyri & The North of Iceland
The Akureyri region, situated in the North of Iceland, feels quieter and wilder than any part of the island. The area is full of untouched locations not popular among tourists at all – snow-capped mountains, fantastic landscapes, and peaceful ocean fjords. We think that the North of Iceland is a wonderful choice if you want to get away from crowds.
Check this beautiful story of the Akureyri wedding from the North of Iceland.
Best for: Cozy vibes mixed with dramatic, lesser-known landscapes.
Privacy/Seclusion: Very private even in summertime.
The best months to elope: June–September, when all the roads and locations are accessible.
💡Pro Tip – Stay a few days and explore places like Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, and Ásbyrgi Canyon — the North has some of Iceland’s best hidden gems.
How to Get Married In Iceland
Legal requirements For a Wedding in Iceland
If you want to get legally married in Iceland, you’ll need to meet specific legal criteria.
Here’s a quick overview of what you need to know before tying the knot in Iceland if coming from the US, Canada, UK, or Australia:
- Age: You both need to be at leat 18 years old.
- Residency: You are not required to be Icelandic residents, but you have to spend at least 2 days in Iceland before your legal marriage (which is super easy to prove by a stamp on the passport, visa, or plane ticket)
- Originals of documents required from you:
1. A filled-out marriage notification form sent to the Icelandic Registry.
2. Birth certificates of both of you.
3. Valid passports for both of you.
4. Certificates of marital status (no impediments to marriage) dated within the last 8 weeks.
5. Divorce or death certificates (if applicable). - You’ll need to submit all the documents at least 4 weeks before your wedding date.
- If your documents are not in English or Scandinavian languages, they must be accompanied by an apostilled official translation.
Symbolic Vs Legal Wedding in Iceland
All these legal steps and paperwork may sound too overwhelming to you, and we completely feel it! Instead, there’s still a possibility of having a symbolic vow ceremony in Iceland! Having a symbolic elopement ceremony means it’s not gonna feel less meaningful and intentional than a legal one! Sometimes, on the contrary, it may be an even more secluded and emotional way to get married in Iceland, as you’re not gonna worry about any paperwork, arrangements with a celebrant, and all these vibe breakers.
💡Fun fact – This is a popular option used by more than 80% of the couples we work with during the last 5 years, and they shared that they never regretted going that way!
If you’d still love to have a legal ceremony in the land of Vikings, feel free to contact us for the best officiant’s contacts – they will guide you through the legal process with no stress and officiate an elopement ceremony for you.
HOW MUCH Does an Officiant COST IN ICELAND?
In Reykjavik, the price varies between $500 USD and $700 USD. The further away from the capital you plan your elopement ceremony, the more expensive it becomes. The reason is very simple – the gasoline price in Iceland is around $9 per gallon. So if you need any other vendor for your elopement, you’ll need to count these expenses accordingly.
Traditional Asatru Ceremonies
You can have a unique Ásatrú wedding ceremony in Iceland! These traditional ceremonies are deeply rooted in Norse (Scandinavian) pagan traditions, which celebrate nature and ancient gods.
Such ceremonies are held outdoors at one of the fantastic natural locations, which connect couples with earth, water, air, and fire – elements of nature. A key feature is the blót, a ritual offering to the gods for blessings.
The ceremony is officiated by a gothi (priest) and includes such Icelandic (and also Viking) traditions, as drinking from a horn, and handfasting ceremonies. Such an elopement ceremony offers a special spiritual connection, deeply tied to Iceland’s cultural heritage.
See what your Asatru Viking Ceremony in Iceland can look like.
LGBTQ Weddings in Iceland
Iceland is not only an incredible place to travel and tie your knot, but it’s also one of the best, safest, and most inclusive wedding and elopement destinations for LGBTQ+ couples.
Same-sex marriage has been official and legal in Iceland ever since 2010, providing the same legal rights and protections as heterosexual couples.
We’ll be happy to recommend local vendors, wedding celebrants, and venues open-minded and supportive.
Want more inspiration?
Check out this sunny LGBTQ elopement from the South of Iceland
Best Time of the Year to Elope in Iceland
In short: our favorite time to elope in Iceland is the end of Spring (the end of April + May), the beginning of Summer (first half of June), and the beginning to the middle of Fall (September + October).
On the flip side, whatever season and month you choose, you won’t make a mistake as Iceland is a jaw-dropping destination all year round! However, you’ll need to be ready and get prepared for the best experience possible. Go on reading to know the pros and cons of each season in Iceland, and learn our insights about what you’ll get eloping in each of them.
Summer
So, summer in Iceland is almost a flawless season, with its mild warmer temperatures and flourishing lupine fields covering the vast hills going straight to the horizon. If you’re dreaming about the blooming lupine magic being the backdrop of your ceremony – plan between the end of June and July.
Everyone loves summer, right?! So sometimes it feels like half of the world travels north every summertime, making the hotels and Airbnb prices skyrocket. Another downside is how busy all the iconic locations are in summer – for example, the famous Reynisfjara or Skogafoss are literally swarmed with hundreds of tourists, making it impossible to feel secluded and intimate at such marvelous locations.
But you know what?! We have an idea! What about going nocturnal and having a unique vow ceremony under the midnight sun?! We’ve done that before, and oh boy, that was in-cre-di-ble!
Imagine the softest, hazy sunlight going through the low clouds, the whole of Reynisfjara Black Beach we’ve been alone at, and the tears of the couple during the vow ceremony with not a soul around! You won’t feel tied or sleepy at all, as the Midnight Sun phenomenon affects your sleep cycle in a good way.
💡Pro Tip – Summer is the best time for the ultimate adventure in the Highlands of Iceland and other harder-to-get locations. We highly recommend booking a super-Jeep tour for your elopement, which will get you somewhere insanely beauitufl and secluded!
Summer elopements are best for: Highlands adventurous elopements, Midnight Sun ceremonies, and the best hikes possible.
Pros: Midnight sun, lupines in bloom, warmer temperatures.
Cons: Huge number of tourists, the highest prices of the year.
Winter
Dreaming about winter adventure in Iceland? I won’t lie—it’s not for everyone. Daylight is almost dying, with sometimes only 3-4 hours of dim daylight, and it gets chilly, although not as freezing as you might expect Nordic winter to be. The wind, however, can change the game completely, and you’ll likely find yourself getting warm in the car between taking your beautiful wedding photos, just to stay warm. Don’t forget to check the road conditions when marrying in winter, as some roads may become impassable.
💡Pro Tip – Bookmark these two websites when your elopement is getting closer – en.vedur.is to get the most accurate weather forecast provided by locals + safetravel.is to get all the travel warnings, volcano eruption notifications, and other useful information during your travels around Iceland.
Want more winter perks? All the landscapes and locations are completely changing. Snow blankets the terrain, especially in the Highland regions, and some of the most iconic waterfalls, Skogafoss or its smaller bro – Kvernufoss, become covered in breathtaking blue and white ice formations. These frozen scenes make the scenery even more dramatic and beautiful than in summertime.
Another upside is that it’s much fewer tourists in Iceland in wintertime, meaning you get to enjoy all the iconic places in peace.
Last but not least: everything, starting from car rentals, accommodation, and air tickets, becomes much more affordable.
Don’t forget about the ultimate wild card: the northern lights. Unfortunately, God only knows if be able to see the Northern Lights at all, but if you do, this show will be nothing short of magical. Just imagine your elopement beneath the Northern Lights as it dances across the sky! To increase your chances, download this Aurora App, which will notify you when the Aurora shows up.
Winter elopements are best for: Ice cave tours, glacier walks, and Northern lights elopements.
Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices, and Aurora shows.
Cons: Very short daylight, can be very cold.
Fall and Spring
Spring or Fall elopements are on your plan? Both seasons are true wild cards. Predicting the weather on the island in the center of the Atlantic Ocean is like guessing a twist in your favorite crime show—nearly impossible. Spring can feel like winter, and fall might bring early snow, but here’s a tip: you still have a shot at seeing the Northern Lights, especially in late September.
Spring brings a calm before the tourist rush, giving you more space to explore. However, both seasons can be incredibly windy—but speaking honestly, you have to be ready for that at any season! Weather-wise, expect anything from sunshine to snow, sometimes within the same day. May is our favorite month in spring when it’s such a joy to shoot and explore: all the locations are almost empty even in prime time, while the daylight is up to 16 hours long!
We believe that fall, especially from September to the end of October, is an ideal time to elope in Iceland. From our experience, September is the best month of the year for eloping, with fewer tourists (especially in comparison with summer months), which provides much more secluded and unique elopement experiences. The weather becomes slightly cooler, although it can be a bit wet and rainy, so layering up and bringing a good waterproof raincoat is highly recommended. Stormy conditions may happen, so being flexible with your plans is essential to getting the most out of your special day.
💡Pro Tip – Even if the forecast on your special day looks brutal, just embrace the weather and plan with flexibility on your mind. Don’t worry – we got you covered! We always have plan A, B, C, and even D, even in the worst case scenario, so just relax and have fun celebrating your love in Iceland!
Spring and fall elopements are best for: Best bang for their bucks, stunning weather shows and intimate elopements.
Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices, and Aurora shows.
Cons: Storms and super unpredictable weather.
4 Real Stories From Couples Who Eloped in Iceland
“Iceland was where Amanda first told me she loved me. We knew it had to be the place we started our forever.” Some love stories circle back to where they began — and for Jay and Amanda, Iceland was more than just a destination. It was the heart of their story. Years before, Amanda had slipped a love letter into Jay’s bag while he was traveling in Iceland. Eight years later, they returned — together this time — to begin their next chapter in the same wild, soul-shifting landscape. Drawn to Iceland’s commanding solitude, the couple skipped the traditions that never felt like them. “A traditional wedding didn’t resonate with who we are,” Jay explained. “Iceland was the perfect company for us.”
Their elopement day began with a bang — or rather, a flat tire just minutes into their journey. But instead of panic, there was peace. “It was part of the adventure,” Jay said. “We felt like we were in safe hands with Tony and Jane.” That grounded calm set the tone for everything else. Amanda, deeply connected to pagan Viking marriage traditions, brought a handcrafted handfasting cord. “We tied the knot — literally — while we exchanged our vows,” Jay shared. “And somehow, we both gave each other gifts that honored our grandparents without planning it. It was this beautiful synchronicity.” The moment Jay saw Amanda in her dress for the first time, standing in the middle of Icelandic wild grass, time stopped. “She looked so beautiful. I didn’t doubt eloping for a second.” “To have a day where we only worried about each other — not our jobs, not anyone else — that was the most meaningful gift of all.” Their advice to other couples? Simple: Just do it. “You can always celebrate with family later. But your wedding day? It should feel like yours. And for us, it absolutely did.” “We felt understood, supported, and inspired by Tony and Jane. From fixing our tire to chasing the Northern Lights, they were more than photographers — they were our guides, our calm, and our friends.”
“We’ve heard so many people say their wedding day was a blur. Ours was the opposite — calm, beautiful, unforgettable.”
For Kayla and Aaron, getting married in Iceland meant stepping into stillness. As solo travelers, both had fallen in love with the country years earlier. Coming back together — this time to say their vows — felt like closing a beautiful loop. “Nature means a lot to us,” Aaron said. “We wanted to experience Iceland’s beauty side by side on a day that actually mattered.”
Their ceremony took place just behind their hotel, where morning steam wrapped the landscape in a dreamlike veil. “It created this soft, misty mood we never could have planned. It was perfect.” Despite timing constraints with a small group of family, they leaned into the flow, trusting the land — and their photographers — to shape the day.
A highlight? An incredible hike to a hidden overlook that Tony and Jane had scouted. “The wind was wild, the view unreal — we still feel it.”
With handwritten vows, simple wildflowers, and the freedom to be fully present, their elopement was exactly what they wanted: raw, real, and deeply theirs.
“If you’re even considering eloping… do it. We remember every moment, because it was truly ours.”
“Tony and Jane gave us more than photographs. They gave us ease, direction, and beauty we didn’t know how to ask for.”
Check out their stunning elopement day in Thorsmork
“We wanted someplace unconventional — something that felt like it represented who we are, and where we’ve been. Iceland closed a chapter we’d been writing for over a decade.”
Kelvin and Junli’s Iceland elopement wasn’t just a destination decision — it was a reunion with a long-held dream. In their earliest days together, Kelvin once mentioned a desire to visit Iceland, inspired by its dramatic landscape and its ties to the techno music that still fuels his creativity. Years later — after 10 years of love, travel, and growth — they chose Iceland to begin a new chapter, in the place they never quite reached until now. They sought a setting that combined their two favorite elements — ocean and mountains — and they found it. Junli fell in love with a photo of a couple in front of a thunderous waterfall from ISKRA’s gallery and instantly knew: “That. That’s where it has to be.” Their ceremony was set atop a cliff with the sea crashing below — epic, cinematic… and slightly terrifying. “We forgot Kelvin has a fear of heights,” Junli laughed. “There was a full debate about moving the ceremony — but in the end, he overcame it. That view made our vows even more powerful.” There were no fancy extras, just honest connection, raw nature, and a setting that didn’t need decorating. “We didn’t regret a thing — not the intimacy, not the simplicity. We came back with a story only we could tell.” “If you’re worried you’ll regret not having a big wedding — you won’t. The stress you save, the stories you gain, and the memories you create on an elopement like this? Absolutely priceless.”
“Tony and Jane were everything we needed — calm, thoughtful, and truly invested. We felt seen, supported, and completely at peace.”
See their moody elopement at Skogafoss and Kvernufoss
“We knew we would love Iceland, but being there… it felt like we found our heartbeat.”
For Jessie and Christian, Iceland wasn’t just a place to get married — it was a living, breathing experience. Coming from the Arizona desert, the shift in scenery was almost spiritual. “Iceland was the most real and raw presence of nature we’ve ever seen,” Jessie said. “Everywhere you look — waterfalls, cliffs, wild animals just existing in peace — it was like stepping into a better world.” Though their original minister canceled just weeks before the ceremony, the right person still found them. Jóhanna, a local officiant from Vík, stepped in with warmth and intention — delivering a heartfelt ceremony that felt destined. What made their day even more special? A sand ceremony with a twist. Each brought a different color sand — black and white — to symbolize their union. “Two souls pouring into one moment. It felt like a physical vow, not just spoken, but seen.”
Their memories are marked by intensity: standing on the cliffs of Dyrhólaey with the wind whipping at their backs, holding each other steady as birds circled and black sand stretched endlessly below. “It felt like we were frozen in a movie scene,” Jessie recalled. “Unreal.” And then came Skógafoss — thundering in the background as they crossed in front of it, channeling their own “Walter Mitty” moment to close the day. “It was peaceful, pure, and unforgettable. This wasn’t just a wedding — it was the experience of a lifetime.”
Their advice to others? Plan ahead, expect the unexpected, and let the weather do its thing. “The moodiness of Iceland only made the photos more magical.”
“Tony and Jane froze time for us. Their work is cinematic, full of emotion and light. We didn’t just get photos — we got memories we can feel all over again.”
Dreaming About the Adventure of a Lifetime?!
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Best Iceland Wedding Venues
We’ve compiled a list of the best Icelandic wedding venues, ranging from old charming Airbnbs and hotels, boutique camps, and rustic warehouses to chick Michelin restaurants or unique glass lodges ideal for Aurora watching. You hardly need an experienced planner to make it happen!
And the best part of it? We’ve worked at almost each of these venues, and we’ll be happy to share our insights and impressions with you.
Here are some of our favorite wedding venues in Iceland:
HOTEL BÚÐIR
MATUR OG DRYKKUR, REYKJAVIK
PANORAMA GLASS LODGE
HOTEL RANGA
SKÁLAKOT MANOR
THE RETREAT AT BLUE LAGOON
Black Beach Suites
Sela Retreat
What is the Average Cost of a Wedding Reception in Iceland?
You can find many venues here to fit any budget. They range from 0 ISK (literally!) up to 1.000.000 ISK (about 7500 USD), plus the wedding reception price will be around $150 per guest invited.
The Best Iceland Wedding Planners
Pink Iceland
Pink Iceland is a top LGBTQ+ oriented local wedding planning company based in the heart of Reykjavik. They specialize in destination weddings for couples of any gender, skin color, or body shape coming to Iceland from all over the globe to celebrate their love. We recommend Pink Iceland if you’re hoping for a more stress-free wedding planning process, because they can handle everything from legal paperwork to booking the exclusive access to some unique private wedding venues, such as secret black beaches, glaciers, or waterfalls. Our personal experience in working with Pink is rather long and rich, and they never failed!
Amulet Events
Amulet Events is known for creating unforgettable and stylish celebrations and bespoke planning services. They focus on chic elegance, often blending the authenticity and natural beauty of Icelandic wedding locations with refined details, and offer a range of services from venue selection to full day coordination. We’ve worked with Nadia from Amulet Events numerous times and have had only the amazing experiences.
Unique Iceland Elopement Experiences
It sometimes feels like Iceland is not a real place, but more of an insanely huge playground where grown-ups can have fun: exploring, adventuring, hiking, and probably loving through one of the adventures of a lifetime. So why not include one of these insanely fun things to do while eloping to Iceland, a truly adventurous way? Here are some of the unique elopement experiences available to customize your day:
Book a Elopement Helicopter tour
Iceland is especially gorgeous from above! So why not book a helicopter adventure elopement to get all in one: have a fantastic heli ride and enjoy the unique Icelandic scenery and reach the most secluded locations for your vows, only reachable by air?!
Norðurflug Helicopter Tours is a great local company to use if you decide to have a helicopter wedding. Private helicopter tours start at $2,000. The price tag varies depending on the tour length, number, and distance between the locations.
Book a Scenic Super Jeep Adventure
Getting to some of the further and wild locations in Iceland is often connected with using specialized vehicles, such as Super-Jeeps. A private Super Jeep tour to Thorsmork is a unique, fun, and adventurous way to reach the “Valley of the Gods.” You’ll cross rivers, river beds and hills, to reach the most stunning glacier views, valleys and other unique photography locations for your elopement day!
Soak in ONE of the Iceland’s Natural Hot springs
Iceland is rich in fantastic natural hot springs and hot pots. So why not use this chance and have a break to breathe out during your elopement adventures and have some quiet and relaxing moments? Some of local hot springs are completely free to visit, so don’t forget to pack your swimsuits!
Book a Blue Ice Cave Tour
Can you imagine yourselves walking inside an enormous ice cave to see and feel the scale and beauty of Iceland’s glaciers? On top of that, getting such incredible ice cave photographs as below is almost guaranteed!
💡Pro tip – If you’re ice cave and glacier fans, and visiting an ice cave is a must-have as your activity, plan your elopement day for late autumn, winter, or the beginning of spring for the most stable ice and most predictable ice cave tour experience.
have a scenic Hike to your elopement location
Iceland has it all for hiking fans and someone who’d love to earn the most unique spots, views, and locations. Why not grab a backpack, snacks, and water, and hike to some absolutely epic lookouts to elope in no witnesses at all?!
💡Pro Tip – Our best advice for hiking boots for your hiking elopement is buying Blundstones 566 for your elopement – they are completely waterproof and look amazing with any wedding dress or suit.
Travel and Logistics Tips for Your Elopement in Iceland
Planning your elopement in Iceland is 100% exciting, but it may be overwhelming for some of you. Let’s make sure getting to Iceland (and getting around) is as stress-free as possible.
Here are our travel 101 and logistics tips for your elopement trip to go smoothly from the moment you land to your “I do’s.”
Getting to Iceland For your Wedding
There are several ways to come to Iceland, but from our experience, flying to Iceland is the best, easiest, and most predictable way possible (especially in the shoulder season). The main and only airport to fly in is Keflavik International Airport (KEF), is about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. KEF airport handles all international flights. Airlines like Icelandair, Delta, and Play Airlines provide direct flights from the US and Canada, while European travelers can have a flight with Wizz Air, British Airways, and Lufthansa.
From the US
Flying from the USA is relatively convenient, especially when booking a direct flight to Iceland. A typical flight from the East Coast takes around 5-6 hours, whilst coming from the West Coast cities, such as LA (LAX) or Seattle (SEA) to Reykjavik takes approximately 7-8 hours.
From Europe
Flights from Europe take even less time, making travelling even easier! A flight from major European city takes somewhere between 3 and 4 hours only.
From Australia, New Zealand, and Asia
Flying from Australia, New Zealand is far more complicated and time-consuming. For example, a journey from Sydney typically takes more than 24 hours with 1 to two layovers. Travel time from Asian cities such as Hong Kong or Singapore may take between 18 and 20 hours, with normally 1 or two layovers.
💡Travel Tip 1 – We recommend using flight comparison tools and setting up alerts to monitor price changes. Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Momondo allow you to set alerts for specific routes so you can book when prices drop.
💡Travel Tip 2 – Arrive 2–3 days before your elopement day. This gives you time to settle in, overcome the jetlag (hello to our US and Asian couples!), and handle any last-minute paperwork or just check your elopement locations beforehand!
💡Travel Tip 3 – You can check volcano activity, ongoing eruptions, and other travel updates at safetravel.is
How to Get Around in Iceland
Get a Rental Car
Having your own wheels is highly recommended. Renting a car in Iceland gives you the freedom to explore not only the most popular spots, but also some extraordinary off-the-beaten paths, so be sure to rent a 4×4 vehicle.
What else to know about renting a car in Iceland?
- Car rental in Iceland is expensive. Early bookings may save you quite a lot.
- Renting at least a small or better mid-size SUV like the KIA Sportage will be an optimal choice for navigating often slippery, gravel, and F-roads (where only 4×4 cars are allowed) that lead to the most hidden gem locations of Iceland.
- Following the driving rules is crucial! You should follow the general driving rules, such as speed limit, signs, and parking rules, as fines in Iceland are just huge (no joke!)
- Always check the road and driving conditions, such as wind speed and road closures that sometimes happen (especially in wintertime) at umferdin.is before heading somewhere.
- Leave No Trace: We follow and highly recommend you follow Leave No Trace rules when travelling in Iceland. It means you don’t litter, never off-road (you can even get deported + heavily fined for offroading in Iceland!), don’t take anything with you, but photographs and videos from the locations, and don’t bother the wildlife.
- 💡Local Travel Tip – We strongly support local businesses and can highly recommend Blue Car Rental, as our go-to car rental for more than 10 years already. No hiccups or issues at all!
Best Airbnbs for Your Elopement in Iceland
Trust me, having a decade of experience of traveling around Iceland, we’ve seen it all. No joke: we’ve tried all kinds of holiday homes, lodges, villas, and huts. That’s why we’ve decided to help you in planning and creating our top 5 Airbnbs to stay during your elopement. All of them are very different in style but have amazing light for the perfect getting-ready photos and portraits. They are spread around the whole of Iceland, so you can pick the best for you despite the region you’ll choose.
Here is the list of our favorite Airbnbs in Iceland:
Iceland Lakeview Retreat
ÖÖD Hekla Horizon
Villa with ocean and mountain view
Villa North in Akureyri
Svartaborg Luxury Villa
Villa Between the ocean and mountain
How to Elope in Iceland in 8 Simple Steps
Feeling overwhelmed by the amount of information and now don’t even know where to start?! We feel you! Here is a simple step-by-step roadmap to make your first planning steps:
Step 1: Create the vision of Your Day
Sit down together with your lover and talk. What woudl you love to do, feel, experience on your elopement day? What do you want to remember most? This would help prioritize what’s most important, so you don’t get lost during your planning process.
Step 2: Pick Your Date
You surely have to check the pros and cons and our local tips about the best time to elope in Iceland. We recommend staying flexible with the dates and marking at least 2-3 dates in your calendar just to have extra flexibility. It’ll help you pick the best accommodation and elopement vendors possible.
Step 3: Choose Your Ceremony Type
Imagining your ceremony and deciding which way to go is important. The choice between a legal and symbolic ceremony will definitely influence how much preparation and paperwork you’ll need to do to get prepared.
Step 4: Book Your Elopement Vendors
Book your elopement vendors that you feel connected with. If the guide you’ve read above was useful and you feel like we could be the right fit for you, we’d be happy to be your Iceland elopement experts, photogs, planners, guides, and third (and fourth, lol) wheels. Don’t hesitate to contact us to say hi and tell us about your dreams and wishes!
Step 5: Book your Transport and accommodation
Once the date is set, it’s the right time to book your flights, accommodation, and the car. Book these as early as possible to get the best fare and (possibly) even early bird discounts.
💡Pro Tip – Iceland is a part of the Schengen zone, so you’ll be able to come here following EU visa requirements. If you’re from the USA or EU, you’re able to arrive having just your passport!
Step 6: Select Your Dream Location
Pick your ideal elopement locations in Iceland that fit your vibes and dreams. (We help with that!)
Step 7: Plan the Details
It’s the right moment to buy or order your wedding outfits and book your florals, hair, and makeup services. If you decide to have a vow ceremony, think and write down your vows in the vow book (btw, it’s one more item to pick and buy!).
Besides that, you’ll surely need good hiking boots for extra grip and a warm rain jacket – check this article to pick one.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Day in Iceland
Your elopement day is your wedding day, not just a photoshoot day. Hike, celebrate, explore, enjoy — this is your unique adventure of a lifetime! Have fun!
How Much Does it Cost to Elope and Get Married in Iceland?
You might imagine that an elopement here costs a fortune, but it’s very often more affordable than a traditional wedding in the USA! A typical price of a wedding in the USA in 2024 will be between $33,000 and $35,000, and in big cities, it can be an even larger sum.
In general, most Elopements in Iceland fall within the range of 10.000–12.000 € (11,400–13,700 $), not including airfare. And you can even continue your elopement trip with the epic honeymoon, which can save you quite a good amount!
Below, you’ll find a rough estimate of the costs of getting married or eloping (based on the expenses of just you two).
Iceland Budget Elopement Cost
The average cost of a budget elopement in Iceland is $7,600USD, which includes:
- Marriage license (symbolic ceremony): $0
- Accommodation: $500
- Car rental: $200
- Hair + make-up: $0 (DIY)
- Attires: $1000
- Bouquet: $200
- Dinner at the cafe: $200
- Photographer (6 hours coverage): $5,500
Iceland Luxury Wedding Cost
The average cost of a luxury destination wedding in Iceland is $28,100USD, which includes:
- Officiant: $700
- Accommodation: $1500+
- Car rental: $700+
- Hair + make-up: $800+
- Attires: $3000
- Bouquet: $400
- Venue: $2000+
- Wedding Planner: $2000+
- Helicopter private tour: $2500
- Photographer (12 hours coverage): $9,500+
- Videographer (12 hours coverage): $5,000+
Budget-Savvy Tips for Your Elopement
Everybody knows that Iceland is surely not a budget destination. This is why it will be costly once planning an elopement day. We think that it’s most important to focus on what matters to you two, how intentional you are, how sincere and deep your connection is. For sure, a fancy-ass celebration dinner with a vintage bottle of Moet & Chandon sounds cool, but it doesn’t have to look like that! All in all, you’re choosing eloping instead of a big wedding celebration, so you can have it your way.
Here are our top budget-savvy tips to lower your expenses without compromising the quality of your elopement in Iceland:
Iceland Elopement Packages
Prices for our Iceland Elopement Packages start at 5500 Euros and depend on the amount of working time & add-ons you will choose. All of the packages include:
Prices START at €5.500
Ready to Elope in Iceland?
We are Jane & Tony Iskra – an award-winning elopement team in Iceland and beyond. We’ve helped over 300 couples turn their wildest dreams into once-in-a-lifetime adventure experiences. Let’s start planning yours!
Get In Touch
Together with Tony Iskra, they are ISKRA Photography - a husband & wife duo shooting in Iceland and beyond.
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