A destination wedding in Santorini is the ultimate romantic escape. With whitewashed cliffside villages, blue-domed churches, and awe-inspiring sunsets, this Greek island offers a truly magical setting for saying “I do.” But planning a wedding abroad requires thoughtful preparation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to plan your dream wedding in Santorini — including expert tips, legal requirements, and the best venues to make your day unforgettable.
Why Get Married in Santorini?
Santorini is more than just a pretty backdrop — it’s a place of legends, beauty, and timeless charm. Here’s why couples from all over the world choose it as their wedding destination:
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Scenic beauty: Perfect for wedding photos and romantic moments
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Sunsets like no other: Especially in Oia and Imerovigli
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Rich local culture: Add Greek traditions to your big day
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World-class venues: From cliffside terraces to elegant wineries
Whether you’re planning a lavish wedding or an intimate elopement, Santorini delivers an experience you and your guests will never forget.
When Is the Best Time for a Santorini Wedding?
Santorini’s wedding season runs from April to October, with ideal months being May, June, and September. Here’s a quick breakdown:
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April–May: Mild weather, blooming landscapes, fewer tourists
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June–August: Peak season, sunny skies, and vibrant nightlife
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September–October: Warm days, golden sunsets, relaxed vibe
Avoid November to March unless you’re going for a symbolic ceremony, as many venues and services close for the season.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding in Santorini
1. Set Your Budget and Guest List
Decide early on your guest count and overall budget. Destination weddings tend to be smaller but more meaningful. Major costs include:
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Venue rental and décor
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Travel and lodging
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Catering and drinks
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Photography/videography
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Wedding planner services
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Legal documents and translation fees
2. Hire a Local Wedding Planner
Hiring a local wedding planner is highly recommended. They can:
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Help with legal paperwork
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Recommend trusted vendors
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Coordinate logistics
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Be your liaison on the island
Top wedding planners in Santorini include:
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Tie the Knot Santorini
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Santorini Glam Weddings
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Julia & Evita Wedding Planners
3. Understand the Legal Requirements
To have a legal wedding in Greece, you’ll need:
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Valid passports
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Full birth certificates with Apostille
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Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage
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Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
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Legal translations of all documents into Greek
A Greek Orthodox wedding has additional requirements, including proof of baptism. Alternatively, many couples choose a symbolic ceremony and handle the legalities in their home country.
4. Visit the Island in Advance (If You Can)
A pre-wedding visit allows you to:
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Tour potential venues
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Meet your planner and vendors
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Schedule trials (hair/makeup, food tastings)
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Finalize logistics
If you can’t visit, request video calls and detailed virtual tours.
The Top Wedding Venues in Santorini
1. Canaves Oia Epitome
A luxury boutique hotel in Oia with panoramic sunset views, minimalist elegance, and superb service.
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Best for: High-end weddings
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Capacity: Up to 50 guests
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Highlight: Infinity pool views and rooftop ceremony spaces
2. Cavo Ventus Villa
This private, windmill-style villa in Akrotiri offers exclusivity and caldera views.
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Best for: Private and intimate weddings
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Capacity: 30–80 guests
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Highlight: Sunset-facing stone terrace
3. Le Ciel Santorini
Located in Imerovigli, Le Ciel offers one of the most popular wedding terraces on the island.
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Best for: Elegant weddings with a view
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Capacity: Up to 120 guests
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Highlight: Professional planning team and gourmet catering
4. Santo Wines Winery
Combine your love for wine with the charm of a Greek wedding at this stunning vineyard venue.
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Best for: Wine lovers, rustic-chic weddings
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Capacity: Up to 100 guests
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Highlight: Cliffside terraces and local wine tasting options
5. Dana Villas & Infinity Suites
A boutique hotel in Firostefani perfect for elopements or micro weddings.
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Best for: Romantic elopements
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Capacity: Up to 40 guests
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Highlight: Iconic infinity terrace with direct volcano views
What to Wear: Santorini Wedding Attire Tips
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Brides: Opt for light, breathable fabrics like chiffon or lace
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Grooms: Linen or light cotton suits work well
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Footwear: Choose wedges, flats, or block heels due to cobblestone paths
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Guests: Light colors and breathable fabrics are ideal
Pre- and Post-Wedding Experiences for Guests
Make your wedding week unforgettable by planning a few activities:
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Sunset catamaran cruise
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Volcano hike and hot springs tour
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Beach day at Perissa or Red Beach
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Private wine tasting tour
These group experiences help guests bond and enjoy the island beyond the ceremony.
Insider Tips for a Seamless Wedding
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Plan 12–18 months in advance to secure your ideal venue and vendors
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Create a wedding website to share itineraries and travel details with guests
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Send save-the-dates early, especially during high season
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Book local vendors for photography, catering, and flowers
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Have a backup weather plan, even though rain is rare in peak season
Consider a Symbolic Ceremony
Not all couples choose to go through the legal process in Greece. Symbolic ceremonies are:
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Easier to organize
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Emotionally just as meaningful
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More flexible in terms of location
You can get legally married at home and host your symbolic celebration in Santorini — without guests knowing the difference.
A destination wedding in Santorini is as breathtaking as it is memorable. Whether you envision a cliffside vow exchange or a barefoot beach ceremony, the island offers endless possibilities for romance and beauty. With the right planning, local support, and a bit of Greek magic, you’ll create a wedding day that you and your guests will cherish forever.
Ready to start planning your dream wedding in Santorini? Say “yes” to a once-in-a-lifetime celebration in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
