Top 5 Best Places for a Destination Wedding Outside the U.S.

1. Mallorca, Spain – The Mediterranean Gem for Destination Weddings

When it comes to the best places to get married in the world, Mallorca stands out with its perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and world-class hospitality. This Balearic Island is renowned for its Mediterranean charm, golden beaches, dramatic mountain landscapes, and luxurious venues that cater to every wedding style.

Direct Access from the U.S.

Mallorca is surprisingly accessible. During high season, direct flights operate from New York (JFK) to Palma de Mallorca (PMI), while year-round European hubs make connecting from anywhere in the U.S. seamless.

Scenic Backdrops

Imagine exchanging vows overlooking the turquoise waters of Cala Deià or amidst the rugged peaks of the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana. The charming village of Deià, beloved by artists and celebrities alike, offers an intimate, bohemian setting perfect for romantic celebrations.

Luxury Venues & Hotels

Mallorca boasts an unparalleled selection of five-star resorts, historic fincas, and boutique hotels. Couples can choose between beachfront luxury at Cap Rocat, the refined elegance of St. Regis Mardavall, or secluded countryside estates surrounded by olive groves.

Unforgettable Experiences

Beyond the wedding day, Mallorca offers endless opportunities to wow your guests—yacht charters along the coast, private vineyard dinners with local wines, spa retreats, hiking in scenic mountain trails, or helicopter tours revealing the island’s beauty from above.

Why Mallorca Tops the List

Its combination of accessibility, luxury, and variety makes it ideal for both intimate elopements and lavish multi-day weddings. Few destinations can match Mallorca’s ability to transform your wedding into a Mediterranean escape filled with culture, relaxation, and celebration.

2. Amalfi Coast, Italy – Cliffside Romance and Italian Glamour

The Amalfi Coast is synonymous with old-world romance and Italian sophistication. Known for its pastel-hued cliffside towns like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi, this stretch of coastline offers one of the most cinematic backdrops for a wedding.

What makes it magical? Picture an outdoor ceremony perched on a terrace high above the Mediterranean, followed by a candlelit dinner featuring regional delicacies such as fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and limoncello from local orchards. Venues like Villa Cimbrone in Ravello or luxury hotels such as Le Sirenuse in Positano are favorites for celebrity weddings and intimate affairs alike.

Beyond the wedding: Couples and guests can immerse themselves in Italy’s renowned culture—private boat rides to Capri, exploring historic cathedrals, or wandering through lemon groves and artisanal shops. Amalfi is perfect for couples seeking a wedding with timeless glamour combined with authentic Italian charm.

3. Santorini, Greece – Sunset Magic and Whitewashed Beauty

Few places in the world can match the ethereal beauty of Santorini, with its striking whitewashed architecture, sapphire-domed churches, and legendary sunsets. This Greek island is a dream destination for couples craving a wedding infused with simplicity and elegance.

Ceremonies with iconic views

Weddings here often take place on terraces overlooking the caldera, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Venues such as Grace Hotel or Canaves Oia are famous for their luxury and breathtaking settings.

Intimate vibes

Santorini is ideal for smaller guest lists and elopements, where privacy and intimacy are paramount. Couples can incorporate unique cultural elements, such as traditional Greek music and cuisine, adding depth to the experience.

Extra charm

Guests will love strolling through the island’s winding streets, sampling local wines in cliffside vineyards, or sailing around volcanic islands. Santorini is the definition of postcard perfection—romantic, exclusive, and unforgettable.

4. Bali, Indonesia – Tropical Luxury That Fits Your Budget

For couples dreaming of an exotic paradise without breaking the bank, Bali is one of the best places to get married abroad on a budget. This island blends lush tropical landscapes with affordable luxury, making it ideal for both weddings and honeymoons.

Stunning venues

From oceanfront resorts in Uluwatu to jungle villas in Ubud, Bali offers versatile settings that range from bohemian chic to ultra-glamorous. Many venues include full wedding packages with florals, catering, and coordination—often at a fraction of the cost compared to Western destinations.

Cultural richness

Bali is known for its spiritual atmosphere. Couples can opt for a Western-style wedding or incorporate Balinese traditions, complete with flower offerings and ceremonial blessings.

Guest experience

Beyond the wedding day, Bali offers endless opportunities for adventure—surfing pristine beaches, temple tours, private yoga sessions, or indulging in world-class spa treatments. It’s the ultimate blend of romance, culture, and relaxation.

5. Paris, France – Timeless Elegance in the City of Love

Known as the City of Love, Paris is the epitome of romance and sophistication. A wedding here feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with historic architecture, world-famous landmarks, and chic Parisian style all around you.

Dream venues

Exchange vows in elegant gardens like the Jardin des Tuileries or within ornate city halls such as the Hôtel de Ville. For smaller ceremonies, luxury hotels like The Ritz Paris or Shangri-La Paris offer breathtaking settings with sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower.

Parisian magic

After your ceremony, enjoy a private Seine River cruise reception or a gourmet dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant. Your photos will feature iconic backdrops—from cobblestone streets in Montmartre to the glittering Eiffel Tower at night.

Perfect for a wedding weekend

Paris is also ideal for extending the celebration. Guests can explore museums, indulge in café culture, or take day trips to nearby Champagne or Versailles.