5 best Greek islands for a destination wedding in Greece
Greece is a favorite holiday destination among the Wedding Sparrow team. With over 200 stunning Greek islands to choose from, there's something for everyone, whether you're tying the knot; honeymooning; renewing vows or just escaping for some sun and relaxation in a beautiful setting.
Greece is a popular place for a destination wedding for myriad reasons, from the gorgeous weather and unspoilt beaches, to the stunning mountain views and delicious local cuisine. So how you choose the perfect island for your destination wedding in Greece? Here's our pick of top five Greek islands to get married on.
1. Santorini
The iconic view as the sun sinks behind Santorini's caldera, the flooded volcanic crater, attracts visitors from around the world. A volcanic explosion blew out Santorini's heart 3,500 years ago, leaving black-sand beaches, vertiginous cliffs in psychedelic hues, and swirling rumours about Atlantis. Arguably the most picturesque island in the Cyclades Islands of Greece, Santorini offers a luxurious and quintessentially Greek experience as you can see from this stunning wedding editorial, captured by destination wedding photographer, Courtney Bowlden.
Kefalonia
The mountainous island of Kefalonia is home to stunning lakes and rivers, caves, thick and verdant forests and wonderful beaches with golden sand and crystalline waters. The highest mountain, Mount Ainos, rises at an altitude of 1520 meters. From beaches to wineries to traditional chapels with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea, there are many beautiful wedding locations to choose from.
Rhodes
The largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is known for its beach resorts, ancient ruins and remnants of its occupation by the Knights of St. John during the Crusades. Weddings in Rhodes can take place in a wide choice of memorable locations, the most popular being St Paul's Bay at the foot of the Acropolis in Lindos, which gets booked up a long time in advance. Another stunning location is Kallithea Springs with its exquisite architecture and serene atmosphere.
Zakynthos
The Ionian island of Zakynthos is famed for its shimmering waters, secluded beaches and sea arches. Anyone who loves the ocean will agree this is an incredible place to behold before saying your vows. You’ll find plenty of activities and attractions on the island to enjoy pre and post-nuptials too, including swimming, snorkelling and diving. Pristine Navagio Beach is just one example of a paradise-like setting for a shoreside wedding ceremony. Likewise, the nearby Cameo Island and Skinari Cape are also potential spots for saying I do.
5. Mykonos
The place to be for decadent parties and stunning five-star hotels, Mykonos is the ideal choice for couples who love to go big (or go home). Mykonos' bohemian allure hasn’t faded since the 1960s, although the influx of supermodels and superyachts has inspired hot new hotels and restaurants, many of which host one-of-a-kind weddings. Mykonos is known for its sweet chapels painted brilliant white with panoramic cobalt-blue sea views. There are dozens that welcome would-be brides and grooms to tie the knot in glamorous Greek style. Alternatively, Mykonos offers laid-back options too, including beach weddings with a live DJ and open-air bar.
vendor details
Couple
Venue: Rocabella Santorini | Workshop Host: AMV Retreats | Planning, styling and design: AMV Weddings | BTS Photo: Vicki Grafton Konstantyn Zakhariy | Educator and BTS video: Love Story Films | Florist: Maria Voudouri | Furniture Rentals: Weddings & Whimsy Spicy Bites | Veil: Nova by Enaura | Shoes: Charlotte Mills | Rings: Victor Barbone | Couple: Elovement Paris
Single bride
Hair and make-up: Madeline Eleanor | Look 2 accessories: Erin Rhyne | Look 2 dress: Sarah Alouache | Veil: Blossom Veils | Shoes: Charlotte Mills | Rings: Victor Barbone | Model: Anastasia Tsiupa via Direct Model Management
