Ultimate Guide for an Iceland Elopement
Do you dream of eloping somewhere where it feels like you’re stepping into a completely different world? If towering waterfalls, cliffs along the waterfront and mossy green landscapes meeting black lava fields sounds like your idea of the perfect backdrop, it’s time to plan an Iceland elopement. I wrote this guide with general information to help jumpstart your own research but as always, my best suggestion is to hire a local Iceland wedding planner or a planner with experience in Iceland who can help with the nitty gritty logistical details specific to the area. You’ll enjoy your day more and I’ll focus on getting you epic wedding photos!
About Iceland
Iceland is a small island country situated between the UK and Greenland. Once home to Vikings, it’s now one of the most popular travel destinations in the world thanks to its diverse and uncommon scenery. This geothermal hot spot is home to both glaciers and volcanoes, towering green mountains and expansive black lava fields, abundant waterfalls and turquoise blue waters. Each region has a geography all its own, from the geysers outside of Reykjavik to the black sand beaches to the south and the Mars-like landscape in the northeast.
What’s remarkable about Iceland is that it’s hard to find a spot here that isn’t visually stunning. There are sights you’ll see simply driving along the roadside in Iceland that would be a major tourist attraction with a parking lot and a visitors center in any other country! But in Iceland, the stunning locales are so abundant that it would be redundant to make an attraction of every single picturesque spot. And I say that as the highest compliment!
While a flight here may be affordable, you don’t elope in Iceland to save money. It’s surprisingly one of the top five most expensive countries in the world, so it can get pretty pricey once you touch down. While you may pay more for an Iceland elopement, you’ll get your money’s worth in breathtaking sights. The hardest part is choosing which ones to go to since it would be impossible to see them all!
My favorite solution to this? A multi-day elopement. You’re already having a non-traditional wedding, so why limit your celebration to just one day? I’ll touch more on this later on, but Iceland is the perfect place to design a custom itinerary with a few different stops for your wedding photos!
When to elope in Iceland
Every season provides a distinctly different experience for an Iceland elopement. Have a conversation with your partner about the vibe you want your ceremony to have, as well as what activities are important to you while you’re there.
Summer
There’s a reason this is the most popular season to visit Iceland. There’s
milder weather, lupines, puffins, whales, and midnight sun - which means
nearly 24 hours of sunlight to work with for photos! It also means more
visitors though, so I would suggest a late summer elopement in Iceland
to get the perks of summertime with a little lighter crowds.
Fall
Northern lights season begins in fall, and the crowds begin thinning out.
You can also catch some fall colors before everything turns icy white.
Early fall is another great choice for eloping in Iceland!
Winter
This is prime season for the Northern lights, and the snow-covered scenery is beautiful - but driving in the icy terrain can be difficult. Iceland also only sees around 4 hours of daylight in the winter, so there’s very limited time to take photos. I would recommend eloping during a different season.
Spring
You can still see the Northern lights in early spring, and the temperatures aren’t as extreme as in winter! The landscape starts to come back to life again and crowds aren’t as heavy as in summer.
Where to Elope in Iceland
Welcome to the hardest part about planning an Iceland elopement: choosing where to hold your ceremony! There are so many jaw-dropping options, it’s hard to narrow it down. These are a few of my favorites – but keep in mind you don’t have to choose just one! I can capture your private or small ceremony at any of these locations, and then we can adventure off to another stop for the most epic wedding photos of all time!
Hallgrimskirkja
This is the iconic church in the city center of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik. While it may be difficult to reserve this tourist attraction church for your ceremony, it’s a great place to stop for some city vibe, just-eloped photos. Don’t miss the tour that takes you to the view from the church’s belltower! Did you know the colorful buildings you can view from there are painted to help alleviate seasonal depression from the grey winter landscape?
Seljalandsfoss
This is one of the most accessible waterfalls from Reykjavik. What sets this waterfall apart is that you can walk a on a trail to go behind the falls! Day trip here from Reykjavic or include it in your Iceland elopement itinerary while staying in the south of Iceland.
Skógafoss
Skógafoss is arguably the most recognizable waterfall in Iceland. It’s located close to the town of Vik, and is not only incredibly high, but also incredibly powerful. If you’re feeling brave, you can hike a tall set of stairs to reach an overlook at the top of the falls! Choose this spot if you want some seriously dramatic, romantic wedding photos - but, beware of crowds as it is very popular.
Reynisfjara Beach
This iconic Iceland spot offers a stretch of black sand beach carved from volcanic rock and towering rock formations in the crashing waves just offshore. There’s also a rock face carved with giant basalt columns known as Reynisdrangar accessible from the beach as well. Dyrholaey cliffs are also just a short drive from the beach. With this one stop, we can capture a wide variety of epic Iceland elopement photos!
Sólheimasandur DC-3 Plane Wreck
Edgier couples will love the thought of eloping at the remains of this old plane crash on the beach in the south of Iceland. While your photos will be absolutely stunning, it is a bit of a hike to reach this location. You’ll have to walk 4 miles out and back across an expansive flat plain to reach the location of this famous 1970s US Navy plane crash. It’s a desolate area, but worth it for the photos? I think so.
Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon
For couples who want it to be clear they eloped in Iceland, choose the striking blue waters of Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon. Here, massive chunks of glacial ice float through a serene teal lagoon at the bottom of a glacier. It’s a classic Icelandic view that will make your wedding photos a conversation topic for years to come. While we’re there, we can snap some photos on nearby Diamond Beach, aptly named for the jewel-like ice formations that coat the shore.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
If “mind-blowing” is the vibe you’re going for with your ceremony location - Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is the spot. Rich, green cliffs tower above a rushing river bed to create scenery that looks like it was designed by someone at Disney, not just a natural phenomenon. Hike down to the river banks below for a stunning view up into the canyon, or hike to the cliffs for an aerial view. You can’t go wrong either way.
Landmannalaugar
This colorful landscape in Iceland’s Highlands feels like another planet. The rolling hills take on an array of colors thanks to the geothermal activity in the area. Be aware that you will need a 4x4 vehicle to explore in the Highlands region of Iceland as its far less traversed than other more populated areas. The good news is that there are far fewer crowds.
Búðakirkja, Black Church of Budir
Maybe you want to elope somewhere beautiful but you still like the idea of having a traditional church ceremony. The Black Church of Budir is the best of both worlds! Situated in a lava field in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this gorgeous church looks right at home along Iceland’s coast. You can hold your ceremony inside the church or we can make a stop for some traditional photos with a little bit of spice.
Kirkjufell, Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Kirkjufell is Iceland’s most iconic peak. This mountain juts up from the seaside farmland below it to create one of the most stunning skylines in the country. The view from Kirkjufellsfoss is a must in the area – a waterfall up against a mountain up against the ocean?! What could be better for an Iceland elopement??
Dynjandi, Westfjords
The Westfjords are the most remote and romantic place to elope in Iceland. Few people take the time to venture to this stunning corner of Iceland in the northwest. Those who do are rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the fjords and quaint strolls through local villages. Dynjandi, a massive, multi-tiered waterfall, is one of the Westfjords most iconic landmarks.
While these spots listed are some of the more iconic places in Iceland, this gorgeous country has so much more to offer. I love helping my couples find gorgeous locations off the beaten path and away from the crowds if they are up for it!
How to Elope in Iceland Legally
Don’t stress over the idea of obtaining a foreign marriage license. Rounding up all the legal documents you’ll need to elope in Iceland may seem like a lot, but it’s totally doable. First, the good news: you don’t need a permit to get married in any of the beautiful locations around the country! While public lands in the US usually require permits, all you have to worry about here is the legal paperwork for your marriage license equivalent.
This website has all the information about legally marrying in Iceland, and this document is what you’ll receive from Icelandic officials about the required steps. The biggest thing is knowing that you’ll need to submit copies of the required documents 3 weeks before your planned ceremony – and either mail originals or arrive in person at least 5 days before your ceremony to present originals. Either way, plan to arrive a few days before your ceremony so you can finalize your paperwork in person.
The best thing to do is to email the Icelandic government contact at gifting@syslumenn.is to get started filling out paperwork.
Planning Travel to Iceland
There are 4 main ways I recommend seeing Iceland. You can stay in the city, stay north or south, or if you’re feeling very adventurous – see the whole country! Unless you’re planning to stay put in the center of Reykjavik (I recommend venturing outside of it because there’s so much to see!), you’ll want to rent a car. Don’t worry, they drive on the right side of the road, so it’s not too hard! Depending on the season or your ideal locations, you may need to get a 4x4 vehicle.
There are two airports that serve the capital city of Reykjavik: Keflavik International and Reykjavik Airport. Keflavik (KEF) is the main hub and most likely the airport you’ll fly into from the US. You can find flights to other cities in Iceland from Reykjavik Airport.
Now that you’re prepared with flights and rental car, let’s break down the 4 different ways to stay in Iceland.
Make Reykjavik your home base
If you aren’t planning on staying in Iceland for more than a long weekend and you choose a Iceland elopement location close to the country’s capital city, it makes the most sense to stay in Reykjavik. This colorful city has the most food, shopping and conveniences of any place in Iceland, and it also makes things easy for your less travel-savvy guests. There are tons of gorgeous locations and things to do within a day’s drive of the city.
ION Adventure Hotel – glacial stay east of Reykjavik with iconic design
Reykjavik EDITION – Reykjavik’s first 5-star hotel, brand new in 2022
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon – can be a tourist trap, but still a luxurious treat
Stay in Southern Iceland
The city of Vik and its surrounding area is the second most popular place to stay while in Iceland. Here, you’ll be close to many of the country’s main attractions like Skogafoss and Reynisfjara Beach. If you want to elope in Iceland and stay in a single location with the widest variety of natural attractions nearby, choose southern Iceland.
Umi Hotel – luxury hotel with restaurant and bar
5 Million Star Hotel – clear bubble cabin in a forest
Panorama Glass Lodge Iceland – Instagram famous spot with all-glass walls
Escape to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
For a small town coastal feel, base your trip out of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula north of Reykjavik. The famous Kirkjufell mountain is here, as well as the beautiful Black Church of Budir.
Hotel Budir – elegant but secluded hotel with stunning views and great food
Modern villa for 6 with mountain and ocean views
Camp or Airbnb the Ring Road
The most adventurous couples will want to choose this option. While there are tons of amazing sights close to Reykjavik or Vik, the best way to see the country is to drive the entire Ring Road that encircles the island. Northern and eastern Iceland can be remote, but they also encompass some of the most stunning landscapes the country has to offer. This route is best done in late spring or summer, as winter weather can make this isolated 2-lane road difficult to navigate. Book an Airbnb in a different town along the road every night, or save money by renting a camper van and camping for free.
What to do in Iceland
You can’t go all the way to Iceland and not see as much of this beautiful country as possible during your stay! From food to activities for you and your guests, these are my best recommendations from my own time in Iceland.
Food
Iceland’s food scene isn’t the top reason to visit this beautiful country, but you can still find some gems in the various popular cities. You should be prepared for a higher spend on dining. Think about it: it’s a small island, so lots of food has to be imported – which leads to higher prices! To save while you’re traveling, stop at a grocery store and get food for picnic lunches. There will be tons of places to stop and enjoy the views over a sandwich and chips! That said, here are some options for eating out while you explore Iceland.
ROK, Reykjavik – trendy, rustic eatery in a moss-covered building near Hallgrimskirkja
Brauð & Co, Reykjavik – graffiti covered bakery in the heart of the city
Coocoo’s Nest, Reykjavik – hip café for a bit fresh off the plane
Dill, Reykjavik – Iceland’s first Michelin star restaurant
Glo, Reykjavik – casual spot for vegan, vegetarian, healthy bowls
Fjöruhúsið Hellnum, Snæfellsnes Peninsula – cute café open seasonally on a cliffside beach
Bjargarsteinn Mathus, Snæfellsnes Peninsula – fresh seafood in a quaint cottage
Drangar Restaurant, Vik – traditional Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist inside a hotel
Suður-Vík, Vik – popular stop in south Iceland’s biggest city
Activities
It goes without saying that visiting any of the elopement locations you didn’t end up choosing for your ceremony or your photos should still make your list of things to see while you’re in Iceland! These are a few of my other favorite suggestions.
Ring Road – drive the main thoroughfare that encircles the country
Blue Lagoon – get your Insta fix with a soak at this famous spot. Loved marking this one off my list on my last visit!
Sky Lagoon – another gorgeous geothermal spa that recently opened near Reykjavic
Golden Circle – region that encompasses all the most reachable natural attractions within driving distance of Reykjavik
Chase waterfalls – it’s difficult to visit Iceland and NOT see waterfalls!
See the Northern Lights – if you’re visiting between September and March, there’s a chance you’ll get to see this incredible natural phenomenon
Snorkel between tectonic plates – this unique experience allows you to snorkel or dive between continents at the Silfra Rift
Helicopter tour – Iceland is gorgeous on the surface, but imagine it from above! Such a cool way to tour the country’s sights
Lupine fields in summer – these beautiful pink or purple flowers can be seen all over in the summertime, especially in southern Iceland
Whale watching tour – April to September is prime whale watching season. Try a tour in Húsavík or Akureyri
Puffin tour – summer is the best time to spot this adorable water-loving birds in Borgarfjörður Eystri or the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Myvatn Nature Baths – if you drive the Ring Road to the northeast region of Iceland, these baths provide a less crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon
Iceland elopement photography packages
Why fly all the way to Iceland and not take photos with the love of your life at ALL of the most beautiful spots in the country?! While we will get as many epic adventure wedding photos as possible, for a trip like this, I highly recommend a full day elopement package or choosing a custom multi-day package.
Imagine tying the knot at sunrise at Skogafoss, taking photos on the black sand beaches and basalt columns at Reynisfjara, then capping off the day with a picnic at Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. Then we spend the rest of the week meeting up for snaps in a second, less formal outfit at locations like Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavik and Kirkjufell in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. No matter how you want to customize it, we can make your perfect itinerary a reality and capture epic photos in all the places you want!
*Disclaimer: Iceland is amazing! While I have been before, there is so much I have yet to see. This guide is meant to help jumpstart your own research when planning your day.