Best places to elope as as same-sex couple in Europe
All love is equal and it’s very close to our hearts that everyone needs to be able to marry the person they want to. That’s why it’s so important to start a conversation about safe spaces for same-sex couples and what every single one of us can do to create and preserve them! We are very happy to support you in the choice of your location and activities to ensure that your elopement is about nothing but love!
Around the globe, there are many stunning places to choose for your elopement. Particularly in Europe, there are many beautiful locations that are LGBTQI+-friendly, and luckily, the numbers are growing. Yet, many same-sex couples don’t necessarily feel represented in the traditional wedding industry and are looking for alternatives that feel free, unique and perfectly fit your relationship. That’s where elopements come into play! You can craft your own romantic adventure and leave any outside pressure behind. Even better, you can choose who’s coming with you! Is it gonna be just you and your partner or do you want to bring a few people dear to your heart onto this sjourney with you? Sometimes it’s even better to share the love!
All locations features in this article promote equality for same-sex couples. However, before choosing your dream location: Know how to play by the rules and look up the country's laws on getting married as a foreigner. In some cases, you need to hand in your paperwork some time in advance. But now into the fun part: Our favourite locations for destination elopements!
There are many wonderful destinations to elope in as a same-sex couple, however, we can only feature a few of them in this post. If you are curious about specific locations, here are all European countries that currently support marriage equality:
Austria
Belgium
Denmark (click here and get to know how to elope in this country)
Finland
France(click here and get to know how to elope in this country)
Germany (click here and get to know how to elope in this country)
Iceland
Ireland
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Norway
Portugal (click here and get to know how to elope in this country)
Spain(click here and get to know how to elope in this country)
Sweden
UK
Castles and rugged cliffs in Ireland
Let’s start with the facts: Ireland said “Hell yes” to same-sex marriage equality in 2015 in a referendum and has done a lot for its LGBTQI+ ever since. The welcoming nature of Irish people and the country’s natural beauty make it a great spot to elope in. Especially if you have a taste for beautiful old castles and foggy morning mist, Ireland will give you proper mystical fairytale vibes. And of course, Ireland isn’t just countryside: Dublin is known for its great restaurants and vibrant nightlife. The wild green coastline is a unique view and a perfect backdrop for moody elopement pictures.
Come with us to France
Let us show you our little gem. Click on the picture to follow us to the Dunes de Pilat
France, a culinary journey
France is considered the country of love. While France allowed same-sex civil unions since 1999, it took them until 2013 to establish marriage equality. However, it’s good to know that the marriage law applies to mainland France and all its departments and territories overseas, including Martinique and Réunion.
We particularly adore the west coast of France. The beaches there are absolutely stunning and offer many secluded spots for private little ceremonies. And France has something to offer for everyone: If you prefer towering mountains that look into deep valleys, the French Alps are an amazing destination. You will find many charming small villages on your way and lots of incredible wine and cheese.
Experiencing the Northern Lights Sweden
The Swedes legalized same-sex marriage in 2009, together with a gender-neutral marriage law. Sweden has a diverse landscape with thousands of coastal islands, green forests, and lots of snow in winter! In some spots, you will even be able to see the Northern Lights! Depending on the time of the year and the season that you choose, the country changes completely. Sweden experiences moderate summers with mild temperatures, sunny days, and lush greenery but turns into a proper winter wonderland once temperatures drop. It’s the perfect location for any winter adventure and is full of incredible remote spots, small lakes, and lovely colourful houses.
Snowelopement in Germany
We’re born in Germany and yet we still didn’t discover all the beautiful places here. Let’s change this together!
Click on this picture to follow us to winter wonderland
Disney castles in Germany
With same-marriage made legal in 2017, Germany has been one of the later European countries to legalize same-sex unions. Germany is one of the secret tips within Europe. The country is well-known for its stunning churches and castles, particularly in the South. However, its landscape is surprisingly versatile. The Black Forest is full of mystical fairy tales (think of the Brother Grimm stories), the Rhine valley is full of beautiful vineyards and of course, tasty local wine, and you can find many beautiful small towns with a historic city center and lots to discover. Cities like Heidelberg or Bayreuth could be exactly what you are looking for.
Stunning waterfalls in Iceland
Let’s talk facts first: When Iceland legalized same-sex marriage in 2010, their Prime Minister at the time (Jóhanna Siguroardóttir) and her partner were one of the first couples to get married. No member of the parliament voted against the bill and it was very popular amongst the Icelandic population. Why Iceland for your elopement? The country is absolutely breathtakingly beautiful! Honestly, you will never run out of places to visit and it’s rather hard to choose what to see. The country is full of icy glaciers, stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and on top of that, it is the best place to see the Northern Lights in winter.
Let us take you to Spain
Come with us to the Basque Country. Let me tell you, It conquered my heart in one second. This place is pure magic!! Just klick on the picture
Vibrant elopement in Spain
Spain is considered one of the most LGBTQI+-friendliest countries in the world. It was the third country in the world to legalize same-sex marriages in 2005 and celebrates colourful pride events in all major cities every year.
If you are looking for a wonderful location for your elopement, there are many spots to choose from on Spain’s coastline. However, its islands are worth considering as well. In Tenerife, you can visit an active volcano and take stunning pictures on black sand beaches.
If you don’t know where to get started, have a look at our article on how to plan a civil ceremony abroad or get in touch with us. We have done it many times and happily coach you through the process! Are you looking for more elopement inspiration? Check out our Instagram and Pinterest for beautiful elopement locations and emotional first looks.
We’re there for you!
Let’s plan your Elopement in Europe together