How to Elope in Iceland
Iceland Guide
Awesome! But now what?
Thinking about eloping in iceland?
Eloping in Iceland is such an exciting idea, but can also feel a little overwhelming with permits, locations, and travel details to figure out.
That's where I come in! I created this guide to give you all the resources, tips and insider knowledge to help plan your dream Iceland elopement with confidence!
Table of Contents
8. Ready to Plan your Iceland Elopement?
7. What to Wear for your Iceland Elopement
6. How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Iceland
5. Iceland Elopement Timelines
4. Iceland Elopement Laws & Permits
- Choose your Elopement Photographer
- Choose your Location
- Book Lodging and other vendors
- Secure Necessary Permits
3. How to Elope in Iceland
- Summer Elopements
- Fall Elopements
- Winter Elopements
- Spring Elopements
2. Best Time of Year to Elope in Iceland
1. Best Places to Elope in Icealnd
Best Places to Elope in Iceland
Iceland is a vast country with so many amazing locations. While the size can be overwhelming at first, here is a breakdown of some of the most iconic places to have your elopement!
Skogafoss Waterfall
Dryholaey
Black Beach (Reynisfjara)
Black Church (Buoakirkja)
Kirkjufell
Located in Icelands south coast, Skogafoss is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the country. You can choose between the base of the falls for dramatic photos, or hike the staircase to the top for a quieter ceremony with sweeping views of the river valley. The waterfall is very accessible, directly off the Ring Road and a short walk from the parking lot. It's best to elope here in early morning or near sunset to avoid crowds.
This viewpoint is just west of the town of Vik. The road up is steep and gravelly but manageable with a 4x4, and much more easily accessible during the summer months. This spot requires no hiking, with a parking lot next to every dramatic panoramic view. This spot is breathtaking, and in the summer you will spot hundreds of puffins here!
One of Iceland's most accessible natural wonders, just 10 minutes from Vik. The beach has a large parking lot, restrooms, and a cafe. The waves here are notoriously dangerous so it is critical to stay well back from the shoreline. The basalt columns and Reynisdrangar sea stacks make it an iconic photo location (especially if you are a Game of Thrones fan!)
The Black Church sits on the Snaefellsnes Pininsula, about 2.5 hours from Reykjavik. The church can be rented for private ceremonies, or you can take photos for free around the outside of the church. You'll find a nearby boutique hotel just steps away, making it an easy all in one location for lodging, ceremonies, and photos. The surrounding lava fields, mountains, and ocean views make this area one of the most versatile spots in Iceland for elopements.
Located on the Snaefellsnes Pininsula, Kirkjufell is about 2.5 hours away from Reykjavik. Directly off the main road, there is a small parking lot next to the mountain. Because it is such a recognizable location, it can attract many tourists throughout the day. Sunrise/sunset ceremonies are the best to avoid crowds. This is also another iconic spot from Game of Thrones!
Here are some of my other favorite locations in Iceland that are hidden gems!
Best time of year to elope in Iceland
Spring Elopements
Summer Elopements
Fall Elopements
Winter Elopements
Every season has its pros and cons. My personal two favorite seasons are summer and fall! Summer for the long hours and amazing weather, and fall for the northern lights and beautiful fall landscapes. Both of these seasons hold a special place for me and I find so many things I love about both!
Spring in Iceland brings longer daylight hours, fewer tourists, and landscapes coming back to life after winter. The waterfalls are roaring from the snow melt, lupine fields start to bloom, and roads closed during winter begin to reopen. It's a great time to avoid tourists and peak travel costs, while still enjoying the snow capped mountains
Summer is the most popular time to elope in Iceland. The weather is mild, highland roads are open, and there is nearly 24 hours of daylight. This season is perfect for adventurous couples who want to explore and adventure without worry of losing light. Just be prepared for crowds at popular locations during the day.
Autumn brings golden tones, crisp air, and fewer tourists. The northern lights often start making appearances again and many areas are still accessible before winter weather hits. It's a beautiful balance between goof weather, manageable travel conditions, and less tourism.
Winter is pure magic for couples who dream of eloping under the northern lights or surrounded by snow-dusted scenery. While weather can be unpredictable, and roads can close often, the trade off is quiet and intimate locations for your elopement. Waterfalls often freeze over, and daylight is scarce.
My personal favorite time to elope in Iceland!
Check out my blog post about each season in more detail!
How to Elope in Iceland
1. Choose your elopement photographer and planner
2. pick your perfect ceremony location
3. book lodging and other vedors
4. secure any permits needed
5. have the best day of your life!
Your photographer is more than just someone to take pictures, they'll guide you through the process, help with timelines, and scout the best locations for your day. Finding a photographer who knows the best spots in Iceland and understands your vision is key to making your day stress free and unforgettable!
From roaring waterfalls to black sand beaches, Iceland offers endless options for your elopement backdrop. Think about what kind of scenery feels most like you and we'll find the perfect spot for your vision. And remember, your ceremony spot is just one of the many epic locations we can explore on your day!
Where you stay can make your elopement experience even more special. From cozy guest houses, small boutique hotels, and air B&Bs there are so many options around Iceland. For a true adventure experience camper vans are widely used in Iceland and there are many campsites throughout the entire county as well!
You can essentially get married anywhere in Iceland without a permit. For ceremonies on private property or in a National park, permits may be required. I'm here to help walk you through the areas that require permits and make sure everything is done legally.
Once the details are taken care of, it's time to soak it all in! You get to exchange your vows surrounded by some of the most breathtaking views in the world, explore the country, and create memories that feel like an adventure made just for you.
Iceland Elopement Laws & Permits
Do you need a permit to elope
in Iceland?
The short answer, it depends!
Most outdoor public lands do not require a permit for small ceremonies. That means many waterfalls, cliffs, beaches, ect. are accessible without needing special permission.
However, if your chosen location is a protected area (e.g. certain national parks) or privately owned land, or if you're planning a large ceremony with set up and many vendors/guests/equipment, there may be rules, fees, or landowner permissions required.
If you're unsure if your chosen location would need permits, I'm here to guide you through the planning and help you make sure you have all the permits necessary!
Here's a resource that goes more in depth about Iceland permits!
Iceland Elopement Timeline
What happens during your iceland elopement?
The beauty of eloping is that you get to throw out the rule book and design a day that feels entirely your own. The possibilities are endless, which can feel overwhelming at first, but that's what makes it so exciting!
Every couple does things a little differently, but at it's core, most elopements share many of the same factors. Iceland is a huge country to explore, I suggest having a full or multi-day elopement to truly embrace the beauty of Iceland and explore as much of it as you can. Here's an example of how your day could look!
6 am - We meet for a sunrise first look and portraits
7am - We head to your ceremony with just the two of you, or close friends and family. We spend the morning taking family photos celebrating your new marriage
9am - We head off for morning adventure portrait under a rushing waterfall
10am-5pm - We break for lunch and relaxation time
5 pm - Meet back up in the evening for a longer hike and adventure portraits
7pm - We head out to a pull off spot to get portraits of the two of you
8pm - Sunset portraits overlooking the black sand beaches with ocean waves crashing on the shore
9pm - End the night with a celebratory champagne pop to end the perfect elopement day
The sky is the limit. Some couples add in adventurous hiking, while some keep it simple with a cozy picnic. Your elopement is all about creating a day that feels true to you.
How much does it cost to elope in Iceland?
The cost of eloping in Iceland can vary drastically depending on what you want for your day! An elopement that is just a simple ceremony followed by a photoshoot will be much less expensive than a full or multi-day elopement.
Most couples I work with care about eloping to have a stress free day while getting portraits in an epic location, not necessarily because they want to save money. It's all about deciding what is best for you on your elopement day and prioritizing that on your day!
Below are a few sample breakdowns of what your adventure elopement could look like! Depending if you want to explore more areas over two days with an awesome adventure such as glacier hiking or a helicopter ride, or explore hot springs, waterfalls, and black sand beaches over a full day experience, It's your elopement to plan so it fits your vision perfectly.
full day adventure elopement costs
mult-day adventure eloementcosts
Photographer (8 hours) - $ 6,500
Flights - $2,000
4 nights lodging - $1,000
Flowers (DIY from store) - $20
Car Rental - $600
Hair and Makeup - $300
Dress - $1,000
Suit - $200
Photographer (multi-day) - $8,500
Flights - $2,000
5 nights lodging - $1,500
Flowers from Florist - $100
Car Rental $900
Hair and Makeup - $300
Dress - $ 1,000
Suit - $200
Glacier tour for photos - $300
Total: $11,620
Total: $14,500
Ready to plan?
What to wear for your Iceland elopement
1. Layer up for the changing weather
2. Adventure ready footwear
3. choose movement friendly attire
5. add personal touches
4. don't stress about dirt
Weather in Iceland can change quickly, so bring layers like a cozy shawl. jacket, or wrap. They'll keep you warm and look beautiful in photos.
Flowy dresses and breathable suits not only photograph beautifully, but they also let you hike, twirl, and adventure without restriction.
Your dress will pick up a little dirt, grass, or snow, but that's part of the story! If you're hiking in your gown, consider bustling it, bringing a garment bag, or changing on location. Think of those stains as memories from your epic day.
Incorporate pieces that feel like you. A hat, colorful bouquet, patterned tie, or even a backpack for your vows and snacks. These details make your photos unique and true to your style.
Sturdy boots or trail shoes are your best friend for exploring. You can always switch into dress shoes for portraits, but comfort and safety come first.
Ready to Plan your Iceland Elopement?
Hi! I'm Holly! An adventure loving, matcha drinking, cat mom who is down for anything you can you can dream of for your elopement! I'm a photographer who's all about making your elopement day unforgettable.
My love for adventure fuels the way I help couples dream up incredible experiences, while my eye for detail ensures your story is captured authentically and beautifully. I'll make sure you get to slow down, soak in every moment, and walk away with memories that feel like you.
- Expert level elopement planning - I'm also a travel agent and can book all your travel reservations!
- Location Scouting to help find those hidden gems
- Custom timeline catered to your day specifically
- Destination Elopement Guide and detailed packing list
- Assistance with all permits if needed so we wont have to worry about anything the day of!
What you get when you have me along as your Iceland elopement photographer
Let's plan your elopement!
Contact
i look forward to hearing all about the two of you and your story!
I cant wait to help make your vision become a reality on your special day
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