Planning a destination wedding is an exciting journey, offering couples the chance to exchange vows in a setting as unique as their love story. If you’re looking for a location that blends romance, adventure, and stunning backdrops, we’ve curated a list of ten extraordinary wedding destinations. From surreal salt flats to historic European towns, these locations promise an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.


1. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia – A Mirror to the Sky


I’m putting this location at number one as my wife and I spent several days here following our wedding in late 2019, including an absolutely magical early morning photo shoot that lasted through sunrise. (Yep, that’s us above in the cover photo… freezing our butts off at 4 am for the shot!) While we weren’t actually married on the Salar, just imagine saying “I do” in the middle of the world’s largest salt flat, where the sky and land become one. Salar de Uyuni, located in southwest Bolivia, is a breathtaking and surreal location for an intimate wedding. After the rains, the salt flats reflect the sky, creating an otherworldly illusion. The stark white landscape provides a dramatic contrast to a vibrant wedding theme, making for stunning photography. For an even more magical touch, consider a sunset ceremony when the colors of the sky blend seamlessly with the ground.


2. Riviera Maya, Mexico – A Tropical Paradise


If your dream wedding includes turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and ancient Mayan ruins, then the Riviera Maya is the perfect destination. In fact, we’ve been to a couple of weddings here and enjoyed our own second honeymoons each time afterward!) This stretch of Mexico’s Caribbean coast offers luxury resorts, charming cenotes for unique ceremonies, and vibrant nightlife for post-wedding celebrations. Whether you opt for a beachfront wedding in Tulum, a lavish resort in Playa del Carmen, or an intimate cenote ceremony surrounded by nature, the Riviera Maya promises romance and adventure. And, with the recently inaugurated Maya Train, the rest of the peninsula can be easily visited by you and/or your guests. (You might also check out the Yucatán’s north coast… though clearly not on the Maya Riviera, we love the little village of Holbox, not too far from the extraordinary ruins at Chichen Itza!)


3. Virginia Wineries, USA – Rustic Elegance


For couples who appreciate fine wine and countryside charm, Virginia’s wineries offer the perfect setting for a vineyard wedding. With rolling hills, lush vineyards, and historic estates, locations like Charlottesville, Middleburg, and Loudoun County provide a romantic and rustic ambiance. Many wineries offer stunning outdoor ceremony spaces, cozy reception barns, and, of course, world-class wine to toast your union. Autumn weddings here are especially breathtaking, with the golden hues of the vineyards adding warmth to your celebration.


4. Tuscany, Italy – Timeless Romance in the Countryside


Tuscany embodies romance with its rolling hills, charming medieval towns, and sun-drenched vineyards. Whether you choose a historic villa in Florence, a countryside estate in Chianti, or a rustic farm in Val d’Orcia, your wedding will feel like a scene from a classic Italian love story. With delectable cuisine, exquisite wines, and picturesque landscapes, Tuscany provides a dreamlike setting for an intimate or grand wedding. Plus, the region’s warm golden light makes for stunning wedding photography.


5. Santorini, Greece – Cliffside Elegance Overlooking the Aegean


Santorini’s iconic white-washed buildings, deep blue domes, and breathtaking sunsets make it one of the most romantic wedding destinations in the world. Whether you exchange vows on a cliffside terrace overlooking the caldera or opt for a traditional Greek chapel, the island’s natural beauty provides an unforgettable backdrop. With luxurious resorts, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and crystal-clear waters, Santorini is perfect for couples seeking a glamorous yet intimate wedding experience.


6. Porto, Portugal – Historic Charm and Riverside Romance


Here’s another of our favorite travel locations; the Douro river valley would be primo for a wedding, with its hillside vineyards, Roman ruins and picturesque villages. For couples seeking a European wedding with a mix of old-world charm and vibrant culture, Porto is an excellent choice. This picturesque Portuguese city, set along the Douro River, boasts stunning historic architecture, colorful tiled buildings, and world-renowned Port wine. Exchange vows at a historic estate overlooking the river, celebrate with a sunset cruise, and enjoy a feast of local seafood and wine. The cobblestone streets and dramatic bridges provide endless opportunities for memorable wedding photos.


7. Queenstown, New Zealand – Majestic Mountain Backdrops


For adventurous couples, Queenstown offers a dramatic setting with its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and alpine charm. Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, it’s perfect for couples who want a mix of elegance and excitement. You can exchange vows atop a mountain with a helicopter wedding, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, or in a charming vineyard. With breathtaking scenery and thrilling activities like bungee jumping and skydiving, Queenstown is ideal for couples who love the outdoors.


8. The Lofoten Islands, Norway – Arctic Fairytale


If you’re dreaming of a wedding in a magical winter wonderland or under the Midnight Sun, the Lofoten Islands in Norway are an enchanting option. With jagged mountain peaks, quaint fishing villages, and stunning fjords, this remote destination is perfect for couples seeking a fairytale setting. Whether you choose a cozy Nordic lodge or an outdoor ceremony under the Northern Lights, the Lofoten Islands promise an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.


9. Kyoto, Japan – A Traditional and Serene Setting


For a wedding infused with culture, history, and natural beauty, Kyoto is a stunning choice. The city’s ancient temples, beautiful gardens, and cherry blossoms (in spring) or vibrant maple leaves (in autumn) create an ethereal atmosphere. Imagine exchanging vows in a traditional Japanese shrine or beneath a canopy of cherry blossoms in Maruyama Park. Kyoto blends elegance, tradition, and modern sophistication, making it an ideal location for couples looking for a deeply meaningful and picturesque wedding.


10. Zanzibar, Tanzania – A Romantic Island Retreat


For a wedding that combines exotic beauty and cultural richness, Zanzibar is a dream destination. This island off the coast of Tanzania boasts white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a fascinating blend of African, Arabian, and European influences. Say your vows on a secluded beach, celebrate with a Swahili-inspired feast, and enjoy a honeymoon filled with spice farm tours, snorkeling, and exploring historic Stone Town. Zanzibar offers a romantic and unique island wedding experience.


Final Thoughts


Choosing a destination wedding allows you to combine your special day with a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience. Whether you’re drawn to the surreal landscapes of Salar de Uyuni, the vineyard charm of Virginia, or the Mediterranean allure of Santorini, each location on this list offers something uniquely magical. When planning your destination wedding, consider the logistics, local marriage requirements, and guest accommodations to ensure a seamless and unforgettable celebration.


Would you pick a stunning salt flat, a charming vineyard, or a cliffside ceremony overlooking the ocean? No matter where you say “I do,” your love story deserves a breathtaking backdrop. Let us know what your favorite wedding destination would be! Even better, bring us along as your photographers!!