Why Greece is the Perfect Wedding Destination: Expert Tips

1. The Breathtaking Scenery
From the iconic blue domes of Santorini to the lush green landscapes of Corfu, Greece offers an endless variety of backdrops that look like they came straight from a fairytale. Whether you’re dreaming of a sunset ceremony on a cliff, a barefoot beach wedding, or a traditional village celebration, Greece delivers on all fronts.

Expert tip: “Sunset weddings in Santorini are incredibly popular. Book your venue at least 12–18 months in advance if you’re targeting peak summer dates,” advises Elena Papadopoulou, a wedding planner based in Athens.

2. Ideal Weather Almost Year-Round
Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and long, sunny summers. The most popular wedding months are May through October, offering consistently warm temperatures and minimal rain. Even shoulder months like April and November can be ideal, especially in southern destinations like Crete.

Expert tip: “June and September are sweet spots—warm, sunny, but less crowded and more affordable than July and August,” says Nikos Mantzouranis, a local event coordinator.

3. Variety of Wedding Styles and Venues
Greece isn’t a one-size-fits-all destination. Whether you want an intimate elopement, a luxurious resort affair, or a traditional Greek Orthodox church wedding, you’ll find endless options.

Popular wedding venue types include:

• Cliffside terraces with views (Santorini , Kefalonia, Makrinitsa Pelion)
• Seaside resorts with private beaches (Mykonos, Halkidiki)
• Olive groves and vineyards (Peloponnese, Ithaka, Kefalonia)
• Historic castles and monasteries (Rhodes, Monemvasia, Mani, Corfu, Chios)

Expert tip: “Don’t limit yourself to just the islands. Mainland Greece has hidden gems with lower costs and equally stunning views,” suggests Katerina T., wedding consultant in Greece for Wedding in Greece

4. Ease of Legal and Symbolic Ceremonies
Greece allows both civil and religious wedding ceremonies, and symbolic weddings are also a popular option for couples who’ve already completed legal paperwork in their home country.

Basic requirements for civil weddings:

• Valid passports
• Birth certificates (translated and apostilled)
• Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage
• A local application form

It’s advisable to work with a local planner or lawyer to handle documentation, as some requirements may vary by municipality.

Expert tip: “Start the paperwork process at least 3–6 months in advance. And don’t underestimate the value of having a local wedding planner who speaks Greek,” says Dimitra L , an Athenian legal consultant.

5. Exceptional Cuisine and Wine
Greek weddings are synonymous with food, celebration, and hospitality. Your guests can enjoy delicious Mediterranean dishes made from fresh local ingredients: grilled seafood, roasted meats, traditional pies, and of course, Greek wine and ouzo.

Don’t miss:

• Meze (Greek -style starters)
• Moussaka and pastitsio
• Spanakopita and tiropita
• Baklava and loukoumades for dessert

Expert tip: “Consider a private chef or family-style service to give your guests a more authentic, cozy Greek experience.

6. Budget-Friendly Options
While luxury weddings in Santorini or Mykonos can be pricey, Greece offers many affordable alternatives without sacrificing beauty or quality. Lesser-known islands like Naxos, Paros, or Lefkada, and mainland locations like Pelion or Nafplio, provide stunning settings at a fraction of the cost.

Expert tip: “Avoid weekends and peak season. A weekday wedding in early June or late September can save you thousands,” notes Maria Christou, a wedding venue manager on Paros island.

7. Rich Culture and Traditions
Greek culture is vibrant and celebratory, and incorporating local traditions into your ceremony can add meaning and fun.

Popular Greek wedding traditions:

• The “Stefana” (wedding crowns) in Orthodox ceremonies
• Plate smashing for good luck
• Live bouzouki music and traditional dancing
• Giving guests “koufeta” (sugar-coated almonds) in symbolic odd numbers

Expert tip: “Guests love it when couples include even a small Greek element, like local music or a traditional dessert table.

8. Perfect for Honeymooning
One of the best parts about getting married in Greece? You don’t need to go anywhere for your honeymoon. Whether you stay on your wedding island or hop to another, you’ll have a built-in romantic getaway.

Top honeymoon picks:

• Santorini for luxury and sunsets
• Crete for diversity and adventure
• Naxos, Paros, Andros or Tinos for quiet charm
• Rhodes for history lovers
• Milos for hidden beaches and boat tours
• Pelion the perfect combination of mountain and sea (the mountain of the Gods)

Expert tip: “Book a private sailing tour around the islands—nothing says honeymoon like a champagne toast at sea,” suggests Andreas Kalogerakis, a private yacht charter captain.

9. Warm Greek Hospitality
Greeks are known for their philoxenia—the love of strangers—and nowhere is that more evident than during weddings. From hotel staff to local vendors, you’ll find genuine warmth and a willingness to go above and beyond to make your day special.

Expert tip: “Learn a few Greek phrases and involve locals. You’ll be amazed at how much they’ll help you feel like family,” says Eleni, a bride from New York who married in Chania, Crete.

10. Pro Wedding Infrastructure
Thanks to Greece’s popularity as a destination wedding hub, you’ll find experienced professionals who speak English and know how to work with international couples. From florists and photographers to DJs and planners, you can build a dream team to handle every detail.

Expert tip: “Check portfolios and ask for video calls with your vendors. Chemistry and communication are key when planning from abroad,” advises Lisa M., a UK-based destination wedding blogger.

Final Tips for Planning Your Dream Greek Wedding

Here’s a quick expert checklist to help you start planning:

✔ Choose the right location: Decide between island, mainland, or a mix
✔ Set a realistic budget: Factor in travel, accommodations, and vendor costs
✔ Book early: Especially for popular dates and venues
✔ Hire a local planner: They’ll save you time, stress, and money
✔ Visit in advance if possible: To do tastings, view venues, and meet vendors
✔ Inform guests early: Destination weddings need early RSVPs and travel planning
✔ Add Greek flair: Local food, music, and customs will elevate the experience
✔ Plan post-wedding activities: Like a boat tour, wine tasting, or beach brunch

Conclusion
Greece isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. The combination of natural beauty, romantic settings, and heartfelt hospitality makes it one of the most magical places on Earth to start your new life together. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, Greece offers everything you need to create unforgettable memories—for you and your guests.

With thoughtful planning and expert guidance, your Greek wedding can be as effortless as it is enchanting. So raise a glass of ouzo, embrace the sunset, and get ready to fall in love with the wedding destination of your dreams.