Ultimate Guide: Getting Married in Greece
Imagine saying "I do" with the warm Aegean sun on your skin and the lovely smell of bougainvillea all around you. Greece has become a popular destination for couples looking for a dream destination wedding, making it a popular place for them. The Greek islands and the charming mainland offer a mix of beautiful landscapes and a romantic feel. You can find blue-domed churches on volcanic cliffs and quiet beaches with turquoise waters. Greece is the perfect place for a fairy-tale!
Popular Island of Crete
Crete, one of Greece's largest and most enchanting islands, is a top destination wedding destination, offering stunning landscapes, diverse venues, and a warm Mediterranean atmosphere. With two convenient airports in Chania and Heraklion, Crete is both: accessible and adventure-packed for you and your guests.
A Venue for Everyone: Crete’s wedding venues range from rustic tavernas for a traditional Greek celebration to luxury whitewashed hotels for a more modern ambiance. Organic farms and cozy Orthodox chapels provide an intimate setting for couples seeking authenticity, while beach weddings offer a breathtaking natural backdrop. The choice of venue truly allows you to personalize your big day to match your unique style.
UK couples can legally marry in Crete, but there are a few logistics to keep in mind. A minimum stay is required before the wedding date, and couples will need a translator to assist with the legal paperwork and ceremony requirements.
Crete’s blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse wedding venues make it an unforgettable place to say "I do." Whether you dream of a beachside ceremony, a rustic taverna reception, or a luxurious hotel celebration, Crete offers a truly magical wedding experience.
Choosing Your Greek Island for Your Dream Wedding
Mamma Mia, It is a beautiful group of islands, and each island has its own unique charm. Picking the right one for your wedding feels like winning the lottery – you’re sure to have a wonderful time! Do you want luxury and stunning views? Or does your heart want something more traditional and a little hidden?
Your adventure in the Greek islands is ready, and it begins by finding the one that speaks to your heart!
Ahh, Santorini!
Santorini is a place that everyone knows and dreams about! This volcanic island shines as one of the best among the Greek islands. Its white walls and colourful flowers give it a romantic feel. If you want a breath-taking Greek ceremony and a reception in a beautiful setting, Santorini is the perfect choice.
Picture saying "I do" with the Caldera bay behind you as the sun sets, colouring the sky with bright shades. It looks like a scene from a dream, and Santorini makes it come true. Whether you want a small gathering or a big celebration for 100 guests, Santorini offers it all in a great selection of venues for your special day.
Let the charm of Santorini help you create a Greek wedding that will be as memorable as the island itself.
Green Charm of Skiathos
For couples who want a stylish wedding abroad from the usual places, Skiathos is a hidden gem among the Greek islands. It offers a lot of genuine charm. You won’t find big crowds here. Instead, Skiathos is about calm relaxation in a lush Green scenery.
Picture smaller ceremonies on a golden sand arriving on a boat and celebrations beneath a sky full of stars. Skiathos is a safe bet for those who like simple and rustic elegance. Time seems to slow down here, letting you enjoy each moment of your stay abroad.
If a Greek wedding filled with warmth, great food and style in a truly unique place sounds good to you, then get ready to go to Skiathos.
Budget-Friendly: Zante and Rhodes
Dreaming of a big fat Greek wedding that fits smaller budget? Don’t worry! Zante and Rhodes can make your dreams real without costing too much.
These islands show you can have it all abroad! Get ready to say “I do” in beautiful scenery without the high costs!
Planning Your Big Day in Zante
Zante has great beaches and even private mini islands, making it perfect for couples who want a relaxed, beachfront wedding without spending too much. Here, you can enjoy affordable luxury.
You can say your vows while feeling the sand under your feet and hearing the waves in the background. The laid-back and stylish feel of Zante is seen in its many wedding venues like Tavernas, which have plenty of budget-friendly choices that add charm.
If you are planning to get married in Zante, keep these tips in mind:
Embrace the outdoors: Zante has amazing weather, making it ideal for outdoor parties until late nights
Keep it simple: A casual setting works best with a relaxed dress code and easy decorations. No need to overthink this!
Hire a wedding planner: Luckily all our venues are already looked after by a pro!
Rhodes and its Intimate White Chapels
Rhodes is full of history and sunshine. It has a lovely mix of old charm and beautiful beaches. Picture saying your vows with ancient ruins behind you, their old stones telling stories from long ago.
Rhodes perfectly combines the wonders of history with modern appeal. Whether you want a ceremony by the sparkling Aegean Sea or a reception in a cosy village square, Rhodes is a great place for your wedding day.
Let the island’s rich history and natural beauty be the setting for your love story. This creates a wedding that is both timeless and unforgettable.
Mainland Greece: Incredible History
Who says you need to be a Greek citizen or on an island to have a great Greek wedding? Mainland Greece invites you with its mix of old history and lively culture. You can say your vows in Athens, surrounded by echoes of ancient myths. Or you can choose the calm views of Halkidiki for your special day.
Mainland Greece opens up many exciting wedding options, where old stories blend with your modern love story.
Athens
The City of Athens is not just known for its ancient myths and archaeological sites. It is also a lively city perfect for unique Athenian weddings! Picture yourself getting married with the Acropolis as your backdrop. The ancient stones may seem to bless your union.
Athens has many wedding venues. You can find rooftop terraces with amazing city views and cosy hidden courtyards full of bougainvillea. They can match any style and fit any budget. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city, and let its rich history make your special day even more meaningful.
A wedding in Athens is not just a celebration of love. It also connects your love story to the past, creating a beautiful start to your married life.
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Getting Married in Greece is Easy
Don't let paperwork take away your excitement for a Greek wedding! Getting married in Greece is simple, especially if you have a good wedding planner to help you. It's important to know the legal requirements for UK citizens too.
Usually, if you're marrying in mainland Greece, you need to have your documents translated into Greek and certified. The Greek islands can have a more relaxed approach, however, every island has a different compulsory minimum stay before the wedding day! Some up to 7 full days! So check with our specialist before booking your flights!
Understanding Greek Marriage Laws for UK Citizens
To get married in Greece, UK citizens must handle some paperwork. Don’t worry, it’s not too hard! The key document is the Certificate of No Impediment (CNI). This shows you are free to marry. You can get this from your local registry office in the UK.
After you have your CNI, you need to collect other important documents like your birth certificate and passport. These documents must be translated into Greek at your local Greek Embassy in London. It’s very important to start this process well before your special date. This will help make sure everything is ready for your big day.
It may seem like a lot, but your dream of Greek celebration is worth the effort! You can always opt for a symbolic ceremony too! This gives you a lot of flexibility when it comes to the time of the ceremony, your vows, and your music. You can just sign the legal documents back at home in your local office. Nobody needs to know either! A symbolic ceremony can still look very official!
Traditions and Trends in Greece
Your Greek wedding should show who you are as a couple. There are many ways to make the day special just for you! Adding Greek wedding traditions can give your wedding a nice touch and show your culture.
Still, if you want to change the typical "money dance" for a fun silent disco, feel free! It’s your special day, and the wonderful thing about a Greek wedding is that you can make it your own.
From the moment you start planning your Greek wedding, you will be taken in by the warmth and beauty of Greek customs. One of the sweetest traditions is the "koumbaro" or "koumbara." These are the best man and maids of honour. They play an important role during the wedding ceremony.
They will stand by your side, especially during the crowning ceremony. This act symbolizes the joining of two hearts. And don’t forget the fun Greek dancing that will happen after the ceremony! Get ready to link your arms and kick your feet to the lively beat of the "sirtaki" – everyone will love it.
Whether you have a religious ceremony in a Greek Orthodox church or a civil ceremony, using these traditions will bring a lot of Greek charm to your special day.
Now Trending in Greek Weddings
Greek traditions are dear to us, but there is always space for something fresh! Today, many couples are adding their own style to Greek Celebrations. They might choose unique places for the reception or add personal touches to their big day.
Imagine saying your vows in a beautiful vineyard at a Santorini winery, literally on top of the world. Picture dancing under a sparkling blanket of lights on a quiet beach. The great thing about a modern Greek wedding is that it allows you to be creative, it allows you to be you.
Feel free to add your special flair. You might create a signature cocktail that tells your love story or pick a unique wedding favour that your guests will remember.
Getting married and honeymooning in Greece is just a beautiful experience that will last a lifetime. You can choose from the forever-stunning Santorini, the elegance of Skiathos, or the affordable options in Zante and Rhodes. Each island offers something different, whether it’s ancient ruins or a big party by the beach with local dancers.
You ask us:
Can UK citizens legally marry in Greece?
Yes! UK citizens can get married in Greece legally. You need to collect the right paperwork. This includes a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI). You will also need to have your documents translated. The British Embassy in Greece can help with more information.
What is the best time of year to get married in Greece?
The shoulder seasons are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). These times have nice weather and not too many people around.
How much does an average wedding cost?
Wedding costs in Greece can change a lot! This depends on where you are, how many guests you have, and how fancy you want it to be. However, you can still plan a lovely wedding without spending too much money.
Do we need to reside in Greece before we can marry?
There is no need to live in Greece to get married there. However, you should arrive a few days before your wedding date. This will give you time to complete the paperwork with the local municipality. Please be aware the amount of days varies from island to island and is best checked with our planner! If you are looking for a symbolic ceremony allow just for a 2 to 3 days prior.
How do we choose the right island in Greece for our wedding style and budget?
Think about what matters to you. Do you prefer a luxury experience, or are you a more relaxed couple? Look into the different Greek islands and what they offer. You will discover one that fits you just right!
