HOW TO ELOPE
IN ICELAND
The ultimate guide 2025 - 2026
LIA PHOTO STORIES
HOW TO ELOPE
IN ICELAND IN 2025
If you're dreaming of an Iceland elopement in 2025, you're in for the adventure of a lifetime! Iceland is one of the most incredible destinations in the world for couples looking to have an intimate, adventurous and stress-free wedding experience.
But eloping in Iceland isn’t just about picking a stunning waterfall and showing up, there’s a few things to consider, from legal paperwork to choosing the right season, budgeting for the trip and planning activities that make your day special. And we are here to help you all the way!
As an Iceland elopement photographer and planner, we’ve helped couples from all over the world create epic, seamless elopements and we want to help you do the same.
This guide covers EVERYTHING you need to know about how to elope in Iceland in 2025, including:
✔ Best locations to elope in Iceland
✔ The true cost of an Iceland elopement
✔ How to legally get married in Iceland
✔ What to pack for an adventure elopement
✔ Elopement timeline ideas
✔ Weather considerations & best time to elope
Plus, you’ll get access to our FREE Iceland elopement guides:
📍 Best Hidden Locations to Elope in Iceland
📜 Legal Requirements for an Iceland Wedding
🎒 Tips & Activity Ideas for Your Iceland Elopement
LET´S START WITH THE BASICS
Why choose Iceland for your elopement?
Iceland isn’t just a country or a place, it’s an experience.
Couples choose to visit and elope in Iceland for many reasons:
UNREAL LANDSCAPES
Think glaciers, black sand beaches, lava fields, ice caves and more than 10.000 waterfalls.
YEAR ROUND ADVENTURE
Summer elopements under the midnight sun or winter ceremonies with northern lights.
INTIMACY & FLEXIBILITY
Skip the stress of a big wedding and focus on what really matters: YOU.
ONCE IN A LIFE PHOTOSHOOT
As an Iceland wedding photographer, we promise you’ll leave with epic and beautiful images to remember your day forever.
SIMPLE MARRIAGE PROCESS
Couples from any country can legally marry in Iceland and same-sex marriages have been legal since 2010 and there are no restrictions based on religion or nationality.
Best season of the year to elope in Iceland
Iceland is incredible year round, but your experience will depend on the season you choose.
☀️ SUMMER ELOPEMENTS
(JUNE - AUGUST)
PROS
Midnight sun (sunset at midnight!) and 20 hours of daylight, best weather, highland roads open, waterfalls at peak flow.
CONS
More tourists, higher prices, some locations busier.
BEST FOR
Couples who want warm(ish) weather, lush green landscapes, and access to the highlands.
PRO TIP
Beat the crowds by choosing a location less busy during summer months, like the North or the West Fjords.
🍂 FALL ELOPEMENTS
(SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER)
PROS
Fewer crowds, golden landscapes, chance of Northern Lights, mild weather.
CONS
Weather starts getting unpredictable, highlands can close by mid September.
BEST FOR
Couples wanting a mix of summer and winter vibes without extreme cold.
PRO TIP
Plan your ceremony around sunrise or sunset for the most magical golden light, fall colors combined with soft, low light make for insanely dreamy photos! Bonus: fewer people are out during these times.
❄️ WINTER ELOPEMENTS
(NOVEMBER - MARCH)
PROS
Snow covered landscapes, ice caves, northern lights, moody & dramatic lighting.
CONS
Short daylight (5-6 hours), unpredictable storms, some locations inaccessible.
BEST FOR
Couples who love winter wonderlands and want a cozy, intimate elopement.
PRO TIP
Book a private ice cave tour early in the morning: crystal blue ice and no crowds, perfect for epic photos and a more intimate experience.
🌸 SPRING ELOPEMENTS
(APRIL - MAY)
PROS
Longer daylight hours, fewer tourists, waterfalls start filling up, puffins return.
CONS
Weather can be unpredictable (rain & wind common), highlands still closed.
BEST FOR
Couples who want shoulder-season benefits with a mix of snow and greenery.
PRO TIP
Aim for mid to late May, longer days, blooming lupines in some areas and puffins returning to cliffs. Perfect for fewer crowds + epic wildlife shots.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO ELOPE IN ICELAND?
Wondering what a realistic Iceland elopement budget looks like? Here's a couple breakdowns:
Budget-Friendly Approach elopement
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Travel Expenses:
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Round-trip flights for two: $1,000 - $2,000
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Rental car for one week: $500 - $800
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Accommodation:
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Guesthouse or Airbnb for seven nights: $700 - $1,200
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Ceremony Location:
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Public locations like Seljalandsfoss Waterfall or Reynisfjara Beach: Free
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Photography:
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Photographer for 4 hours: $2,500 - $3,800
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Officiant or Celebrant:
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Symbolic ceremony with a celebrant: $600 - $1,500
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Dining and Extras:
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Meals for seven days: $700 - $1,000
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Excursions and activities: $300 - $500
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Total Estimated Cost: $5,800 - $9,800
Luxury Elopement in Iceland
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Travel Expenses:
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Round-trip flights for two: $1,500 - $2,500
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Rental 4x4 vehicle for one week: $800 - $1,200
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Accommodation:
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Hotel for seven nights: $1,500 - $2,500
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Ceremony Location:
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Private venue rental in Vík: $500 - $1,000
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Photography:
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Photographer package for a full day: $4,000 - $5,600
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Officiant or Celebrant:
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Legal ceremony with officiant: $600 - $1,500
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Dining and Extras:
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Dining at upscale restaurants: $1,000 - $1,500
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Helicopter tour or glacier hike: $1,000 - $2,500
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Total Estimated Cost: $10,800 - $19,300
WHAT TO PACK FOR AN ICELAND ELOPPEMENT?
Packing for an Iceland elopement requires some extra thought, after all, you’re getting married in one of the most epic (and unpredictable!) landscapes on Earth. Whether you're planning an intimate waterfall elopement or a private ceremony on a black sand beach, here's a complete Iceland elopement packing list to make sure you're ready for anything.
1. What to wear for an Iceland elopement?
Iceland’s weather can change in an instant. Even during the summer months temperatures can drop quickly, especially near glaciers and on top of that, strong winds can make it feel much colder than it actually is. Pack thermal base layers that you can wear under your dress or suit. Merino wool is a great option because it's lightweight but warm.
2. Best jackets for elopement in cold weather
When planning for your elopement in Iceland, it's important to choose jackets that are waterproof and warm. You’ll want to stay comfortable, but also make sure the jacket is nice enough for photos if you can't go without it. Look for jackets that offer both warmth and style, so you can still get beautiful pictures while staying cozy.
3. Adventure elopement wedding dress ideas
If you’re hiking to your ceremony location choose wedding outfits that are easy to move in and can handle a little wind and weather. Lightweight dresses that flow in the wind look amazing in photos. For suits, choose breathable and flexible fabrics. Layer thermals underneath if needed!
4. What to bring for hiking and road trips in Iceland elopement
Many elopement locations in Iceland are remote, with hikes or long drives between stops. Pack plenty of high energy snacks (nuts, protein bars, dried fruit) and bring reusable water bottles. Staying fueled and hydrated is key, especially if you’re planning a full day adventure session.
5. How to stay warm during an Iceland elopement
If you’re planning a winter elopement in Iceland (October to April), it can be extremely cold, especially if you’re waiting for the northern lights. Pack disposable or rechargeable hand and foot warmers to keep comfortable during your outdoor ceremony or the photo session.
6. Do I need a power adapter for Iceland?
Iceland uses the European plug (Type F) with 220V outlets. Don’t forget travel adapters for charging cameras, phones and other devices. Cold weather drains batteries quickly, so bring extras, especially for your phone.
BEST LOCATIONS TO ELOPE IN ICELAND
Whether you want waterfalls, blue glaciers, remote mountains or black sand beaches… no worries: Iceland has it all. The hard part? Choosing the perfect spot! Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to elope in Iceland, each with its own unique vibe, adventure level and stunning landscapes.
1. SOUTH COAST
📍 Driving Time:
2-3 hours from Reykjavík
🌟 Highlight:
A mix of everything: waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches.
🚀 Best For:
Couples who want a variety of landscapes without traveling too far.
🎢 Activities:
Glacier hiking, ice cave tours, horseback riding, chasing waterfalls.
Iceland’s most famous region and for good reason. Here, you’ll find Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and the massive Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. It’s a paradise for couples who want an adventurous yet accessible elopement. Bonus: it’s gorgeous year round!
2. SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA
📍 Driving Time:
2-3 hours from Reykjavík
🌟 Highlight:
A mini version of Iceland with cliffs, lava fields, volcanoes and a glacier.
🚀 Best For:
Couples who want diversity without long travel times.
🎢 Activities:
Coastal hikes, lava caves, whales and orcas watching.
Known as “Iceland in miniature,” Snæfellsnes has it all: dramatic coastlines, black sand beaches, lava fields and the famous Kirkjufell mountain. It's quieter, more intimate and romantic, a good alternative to the South Coast.
3. SOUTH EAST
📍 Driving Time:
5-6 hours from Reykjavík
🌟 Highlight:
Glacier lagoons and untouched wilderness.
🚀 Best For:
Couples who love a scenic road trip and remote landscapes.
🎢 Activities:
Kayaking with icebergs, glacier cave exploring, scenic drives.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach and Stokksnes offer surreal, icy beauty that’s hard to match. While it’s a longer drive, it’s absolutely worth it for couples wanting a truly cinematic and epic elopement day.
4. THE HIGHLANDS
📍 Driving Time:
3-6 hours from Reykjavík
(summer only, 4x4 required)
🌟 Highlight:
Colorful mountains, deep valleys and geothermal areas.
🚀 Best For:
Adventurous couples who want total solitude and a real adventure.
🎢 Activities:
Multi day hikes, mountain huts, hot spring bathing, off road driving.
Only accessible in summer, the Highlands are raw, remote and absolutely breathtaking. Think rainbow colored mountains (Landmannalaugar), epic volcanoes, endless mossy landscapes and geothermal hot springs where you can soak in the middle of nowhere.
5. THJORSARDALUR VALLEY
📍 Driving Time:
2-3 hours from Reykjavík
🌟 Highlight:
Waterfalls, lush valleys and volcanic landscapes.
🚀 Best For:
Couples looking for a hidden gem close to Reykjavík.
🎢 Activities:
Short hikes, waterfall explorations, historical sites.
This underrated valley offers stunning landscapes without the long drive. Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls and Gjáin, a fairytale oasis, make for magical ceremony spots.
6. THE NORTH
📍 Driving Time:
5-6 hours from Reykjavík (or a 1 hour flight)
🌟 Highlight:
Geothermal area and dramatic landscapes.
🚀 Best For:
Couples who want privacy and stunning light conditions.
🎢 Activities:
Whale watching, geothermal spas, scenic road trips.
With fewer crowds, North Iceland offers some of the country’s most unique landscapes, like the bubbling geothermal area of Hverir and the stunning Stuðlagil canyon. In winter, the snowy landscapes with the northern lights here are next level.
7. THE WESTFJORDS
📍 Driving Time:
5-8 hours from Reykjavík
🌟 Highlight:
One of Iceland’s most remote and wild regions.
🚀 Best For:
Couples seeking dramatic fjords and the most intimate and romantic scenery.
🎢 Activities:
Sea kayaking, bird watching, off road exploring, hot springs.
If you truly want to get away from it all, the Westfjords are your spot. Picture deep fjords, towering cliffs and hidden waterfalls. It’s a bit of a trek, but totally worth it for an elopement that feels like you’ve stepped into another world.
8. VESTMANNAEYJAR
📍 Driving Time:
2 hours from Reykjavík (plus a 35 min ferry ride)
🌟 Highlight:
A volcanic island with insane views (and puffins!)
🚀 Best For:
Couples looking for an offbeat, island elopement.
🎢 Activities:
Volcano hiking, boat tours, puffin watching.
This tiny island south of Iceland is a hidden paradise with incredible cliffs, dramatic coastlines, untouched lupine fields and active volcanoes. It’s perfect for couples wanting a unique elopement experience that feels totally different from the mainland.
Ready to Plan Your
Iceland Elopement?
Eloping in Iceland is a once in a lifetime adventure. As locals who’ve been exploring this incredible country for years, we’re here to make sure it’s easy, fun, and stress free. We know the ins and outs of Iceland, from hidden spots to the most iconic landscapes.
We’re a solid team of landscape, portrait and certified drone photographers and we love capturing it all: whether it’s the little details, the big views, or those raw moments. We’ll be there for anything you need, but you won’t even notice we’re around. Our main goal? To give you the most intimate, adventurous, romantic and epic elopement experience possible.
