11 cool European cities to consider for your destination wedding
While Paris, Florence, Dublin and Milan are among the most popular European cities for a destination wedding, there are host of other stunning locations that shouldn't be overlooked for a luxury wedding experience. Whether you're planning to elope in Europe, or host a full city wedding for your closest family and friends, check out our pick of 11 of the coolest European cities to consider for your destination wedding.
Vienna, Austria
Known as the City of Music due its spectacular opera house and musical legacy as home to Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms (among many other famous composers), Vienna is a stunning city to get married in at any time of year. The city is also known for its architectural beauty, with stunning examples of Baroque, Gothic, and Art Nouveau styles, which set the stage for its artistic and musical masterpieces alongside the coffee-house culture and vibrant design scene.
Berlin, Germany
According to the Lonely Planet, Berlin's combo of glamour and grit is bound to mesmerise all those keen to explore its vibrant culture, cutting-edge architecture, fabulous food, intense parties and tangible history. Well, we're sold! As a creative city with an artist soul, Berlin is the ideal wedding location for lovers of art and culture, with heaps of art museums and galleries offering both permanent collections and special temporary exhibitions.
Bath, England
Often said to be the most beautiful city in Britain, Bath is steeped in history and home to some of the country's most iconic architecture. From its Roman origins to the fashionable eighteenth-century designs that form many of the city's most recognisable buildings, it's no surprise that Bath is the only city in the UK to be a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety. The history of hot springs on which Bath is built marks the city's famous heritage and today, you can bathe in the same mineral-rich thermal springs that soothed the Romans 2,000 years ago.
Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal's coastal capital sees 4.5 million annual visitors, most of whom flock to the city for its fado music, historic ruins, winding old town, vintage trams, and of course, those iconic pasteis de nata. More new hotels, restaurants and wedding venues are on the way, making it even more appealing for a luxury destination wedding experience.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
For stunning views of the Mediterranean, a pleasant climate and huge choice of gorgeous venues, Dubrovnik is a must-see city for a European destination wedding. From historical venues and luxury hotel resorts, to enchanting fortresses and private villas, there are numerous luxury wedding venues in Dubrovnik and along Dubrovnik Riviera where you can host your very own Mediterranean fairytale.
Edinburgh, Scotland
If art, culture and a good pint in a welcoming old pub is your vibe, Edinburgh could just be your dream destination wedding location. The picturesque Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the pretty cobbled Circus Lane (above) is one of the most photographed spots in Edinburgh. Just beware of visiting in August when the Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes over the city every year and accommodation becomes scarce and expensive.
Prague, Czech Republic
The timeless charm and picturesque landscapes of Prague create a striking romantic backdrop. Whether you envision an elegant ceremony in a historic castle, a charming garden wedding, or a sophisticated affair in an elegant ballroom, the city has something for every style of wedding. From the breathtaking views of the Vltava River to the fairytale-like architecture of the Old Town, the city exudes an air of romance that will add a magical touch to your destination wedding celebration.
Budapest, Hungary
Straddling the Danube River, Budapest, Hungary's illustrious capital, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Renowned for its remarkable architecture, relaxing thermal baths, and flavorful cuisine, Budapest is a fascinating place to visit and host your destination wedding. Budapest offers great value for money compared to many other European cities, enabling to create a luxury wedding experience without breaking the bank.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Described as Northern Europe’s cosiest capital, Copenhagen is packed with cafés, shops, and some of the best restaurants in Scandinavia. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food or enjoying the city's unique atmosphere, Copenhagen offers something for everyone. You and your guests can enjoy the city’s rich culture and architecture with highlights including Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens, and Rosenborg Castle, plus world-class museums, beautiful waterfront areas and pretty green spaces.
Helsinki, Finland
Helskinki is one of the most sustainable cities in the world, overflowing with good food, great design and unique architecture, alongside its laidback city lifestyle and plenty of green open spaces. Host your destination wedding here and your guests will be able to experience its unique sauna culture, explore the city streets and nature trails by bike, and visit the picturesque wooden villages that surround the city.
Barcelona, Spain
With its rich history, famous beautiful parks and architecture, delicious tapas, and gorgeous shoreline - Barcelona is the perfect setting for a destination wedding in Europe. The draw of getting married in Barcelona is that you can experience the best of both worlds, enjoying the hustle and bustle of the city as well as the stunning rural countryside with mountainous views and beautiful beach resorts.
