Top Ten Countries to Elope in during 2024/2025

Elopements

21 May

I have been lucky enough to film elopements all over the world so feel I can offer a unique insight into some of the most beautiful locations to choose, so here are my top ten (in no particular order) countries to elope in in 2024/25

1. Bali

Bali Teaser Film

I was lucky enough to shoot a micro-wedding in Bali a few years ago and it was by far the most beautiful country I have filmed in- the rainforests, the wildlife, the beaches, volcano’s, the food, the people- I could go on!

You have so many choices when it comes to the sort of elopement you could have: hiking and adventurous, a glamorous hotel affair, vows on the beach, amongst temples or even scuba while diving! There is also the possibility of a road trip around the island as part of the elopement, giving you a story for your film.

Bali may be a bit of a long trip, especially if you’re coming from Europe or the USA but once you are there it is a very affordable country so the opportunities for a fairly lavish elopement once you are on the island are great.

The micro wedding I filmed on the island all took place at a small venue on the cliffs in the southern part of the island, conveniently close to the international airport and many beach side hotels. The location gave us the opportunity to film not only around the stunning venue but also on the nearby beach.

On this occasion I only filmed with the couple for the one day but for most of my elopements I spend a couple of days with my clients, allowing me to build up lots of great footage to tell a story from while editing.

2. Iceland

From a filmmakers point of view, it’s hard to beat the natural beauty of Iceland, with a landscape that changes around every corner, providing endless opportunities for dreamy or dramatic footage in front of waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, icebergs, black sand beaches etc, northern lights with your vows in ice caves or dog sledging. I have visited Iceland on a number of occasions and the weather has always been different but beautiful in its own way.

The elopement I most recently filmed in Iceland had some challenging weather conditions (a lot of wind and snow and rain) however this dramatic backdrop worked well with my style of filmmaking and I’m used to working in changeable environments. Despite not even being able to see my camera screen for a lot of the time(!) I still managed to get some lovely shots for the couples film. I also had the idea of taking the couple out in the dark to film them running off down the beach in the mist caught in the lights of my Jeeps headlights, which made a memorable opening to their film.

Though Iceland is a stunning place, the challenging conditions means it’s imperative you hire an experienced filmmaker to tell your story here.

3. Scotland

Scotland, with its rugged beauty and romantic landscapes, offers an unforgettable setting for an elopement. Its dramatic mountains, serene lochs, and ancient castles provide an incredible backdrop for your elopement film. Whether it's saying your vows on a windswept beach, in a remote woodland, or in a historic castle, Scotland offers a wide range of unique and magical locations.

One of the wonderful things about eloping in Scotland is the legal flexibility. Here, you can get married anywhere, even outdoors, which is perfect for couples wanting a truly intimate and personal ceremony. Imagine exchanging vows atop a mountain or in front of a tranquil loch, with only the sounds of nature as your soundtrack.

Scotland’s rich history and culture add a touch of enchantment to your elopement film and works perfectly with my slightly dramatic style of filmmaking. From the haunting bagpipes to the traditional Highland attire, there are numerous elements that can be incorporated into your ceremony to make it uniquely yours.

The weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, but this only enhances the mystique and charm of the place. A sudden mist, a light drizzle, or an overcast sky can lend a beautifully moody and atmospheric tone to your elopement film.

In short, for those seeking a unique, romantic, and deeply personal elopement experience, Scotland is a perfect choice and somewhere I love to shoot.

I recently filmed on the Isle of Skye and it was perfectly moody and dramatic- just what the American couple were hoping for- and allowed me to be very creative with their film.

4. Italy

Italy, with its rich history, stunning landscapes and romantic ambience, makes for an idyllic elopement destination. The country is home to numerous picturesque towns and cities such as Venice, Florence, and Rome, each offering a unique charm and a wealth of beautiful backdrops for your wedding film. Venice, with its enchanting canals, is perfect for couples desiring a fairy-tale setting. Florence, boasting Renaissance art and architecture, provides an elegant and cultural milieu. And Rome, with its ancient ruins and historic landmarks, offers a timeless atmosphere.

The countryside, dotted with terracotta-roofed villas, rolling vineyards, and sunflower fields, presents a rustic and tranquil setting for a more intimate elopement. The Amalfi Coast and the Cinque Terre, with their spectacular coastal views, are utterly breathtaking and make for truly unforgettable wedding films.

Italian cuisine, renowned worldwide for its flavors and simplicity, adds another delightful element to your elopement. Whether it's a simple pasta dish, a gourmet seafood meal, or a glass of fine Italian wine, the culinary experiences are bound to enhance your celebration.

Moreover, the Italians' passion for 'la dolce vita' (the sweet life) and their warm hospitality contribute to creating a relaxed and joyous atmosphere for your special day. Whether you choose a city steeped in history, a quaint town in the countryside, or a coastal village, an elopement in Italy promises an enchanting and memorable experience.

I have filmed in Florence, in the south as well as Lake Garda and all were beautiful places for an elopement so the possibilities are endless.

5. Santorini

Athens and Santorini Elopement

Santorini, often descibed as the jewel of the Aegean Sea, is renowned for its white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches set against the backdrop of a deep blue sea. Its breathtaking sunset views, especially from the town of Oia, draw couples from around the world. The island's unique volcanic landscape offers a dramatic setting for elopement videos. The beaches, varying in colour from red to black, and the ancient ruins provide diverse backdrops for capturing memorable moments. The island's cuisine, featuring local wine and seafood, adds a culinary dimension to the experience. To top it all, the warm Greek hospitality makes the elopement experience in Santorini truly special. Whether it's an intimate ceremony in a secluded beach or a glamorous affair in a luxury resort overlooking the caldera, Santorini offers a myriad of options for a dream elopement.

I filmed on the island with a couple recently, having also spent a day with them in Athens the day before. We spent the first day travelling between a few locations on Santorini, as well as taking a private boat tour around the island, and the second day filming the actual elopement ceremony and portraits. The main day was planned by a local planner but the other days were just me and the couple taking in the sights and filming organically as we travelled, which I find a far more naturalistic way of working.

6. Corsica

Corsica, often referred to as the "Island of Beauty", is an idyllic location for couples seeking a unique elopement destination. Nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, this French island presents an enticing blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a perfect backdrop for your elopement film.

Corsican Elopement Teaser Film

Corsica's diverse natural beauty is one of its main draws. From the azure blue waters of its coastline to the rugged peaks of its mountain ranges, the island offers an array of breathtaking locales for your ceremony and film. Imagine exchanging vows on a secluded beach with the sound of waves as your symphony, or at the summit of a mountain with panoramic views of the sea and sky. The island's natural parks, such as the Scandola Nature Reserve, are also stunning locations that add a touch of wild beauty to your elopement.

The island's rich culture and history provide an added depth to your elopement experience. Corsica's historic towns, like Bonifacio and its medieval citadel or Corte with its imposing fortress, offer a charming old-world atmosphere for your celebration.

Corsican cuisine, a delightful fusion of French and Italian influences with its own distinct character, adds a gastronomic dimension to your elopement. Whether it's a traditional Corsican meal or a wine tasting experience in one of the island's vineyards, the local food and drink are sure to enhance your celebration.

I was lucky enough to film an elopement on the island last year and had a great time wandering the streets of Bonifacio

7. Morocco

Morocco is a dream destination for adventurous couples looking to elope. With its diverse landscapes ranging from sun-drenched deserts to snow-capped mountains, lush palm groves to vibrant, bustling cities, Morocco offers a multitude of stunning backdrops for your elopement film.

For couples seeking a sense of adventure, the Sahara Desert is an ideal location. Imagine exchanging vows under a canopy of stars in a desert camp, the golden dunes providing an unforgettable setting. Alternatively, the Atlas Mountains offer a dramatic and rugged landscape, perfect for couples who love the great outdoors. Here, you can get married against the backdrop of towering peaks and verdant valleys, making your elopement film truly unique.

Morocco's cities, too, offer a wealth of opportunities for a memorable elopement. Marrakech, with its vibrant souks, stunning palaces, and beautiful gardens, provides a feast for the senses. Meanwhile, the blue city of Chefchaouen offers a uniquely picturesque setting with its cobblestone streets and blue-washed buildings.

Beyond the visual appeal, Morocco's rich culture and warm hospitality add to the charm of an elopement here. From the tantalizing Moroccan cuisine you can enjoy as part of your celebration, to the traditional Berber music that could serve as your soundtrack, the cultural elements are sure to enhance your elopement experience.

In short, Morocco offers a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for couples looking to elope. Whether you're dreaming of a desert adventure, a mountain retreat, or a city escapade, Morocco promises a memorable and exciting elopement experience.

Though I have filmed weddings in Morocco, I have yet to film an elopement here but I know it would be a perfect place for a couple looking to incorporate some travel/adventure into their elopement film.

8. Portugal

Portugal, with its remarkable blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, presents a captivating setting for an elopement. The country offers a diversity of locales, each with its unique charm, providing a multitude of picturesque backdrops for your elopement film.

For couples seeking a coastal setting, the rugged cliffs and golden beaches of the Algarve offer a breathtaking panorama. For a more urban experience, Lisbon, with its old-world charm, winding cobblestone streets, and iconic trams, offers a unique and delightful backdrop. The Douro Valley region, with its terraced vineyards, presents a tranquil and romantic setting for couples who appreciate wine and stunning landscapes.

Portugal's myriad historic sites, such as the fairy tale-like Pena Palace in Sintra or the medieval town of Óbidos, can provide a touch of historic charm and grandeur to your elopement. The country’s rich cultural traditions, from Fado music to the unique Azulejo tiles, can be woven into your celebration, making your elopement film truly unique.

The culinary scene in Portugal is another highlight. From fresh seafood dishes to the famous Pastéis de Belém, the delicious local cuisine can add a gastronomic dimension to your elopement. Coupled with the renowned Portuguese hospitality, your elopement in Portugal is guaranteed to be a memorable occasion.

Whether you're looking for a coastal elopement, a city adventure, or a vineyard escape, Portugal offers an enchanting and diverse setting for your special day.

I have been lucky enough to film a few weddings in Portugal and fell in love with the country, particularly Lisbon which is one of my favourite European cities, so I’m confident it would be a perfect place to create a cinematic elopement film.

9. The Azores

As an elopement destination, the Azores offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and heartwarming culture. Nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, this Portuguese archipelago is renowned for its stunning landscapes, comprised of volcanic mountains, lush green pastures, and azure blue coastlines. The pristine environment, untouched by the bustle of mainstream tourism, provides a serene and intimate setting for your elopement film.

One of the most alluring aspects of the Azores is its diverse natural landscapes. Imagine exchanging vows atop a volcanic crater, with panoramic views of the sea and sky. Or perhaps you prefer a secluded beach, with the rhythm of the waves as your wedding symphony. The enchanting forests, teeming with unique flora and fauna, offer a magical setting for nature-loving couples. The island’s natural hot springs, a result of its volcanic origin, could serve as a relaxing retreat after your ceremony.

The Azores' charming towns and villages, with their cobblestone streets and colourful houses, present a delightful old-world atmosphere for your elopement. São Miguel, the largest and most populated island, is home to Ponta Delgada, a city that offers historic sites, delicious cuisine, and a lively cultural scene. You could explore the local markets, taste the island’s renowned Azorean Pineapple, or attend a traditional festivity as part of your elopement experience.

The island's maritime culture is another highlight of the Azores. From whale watching to sailing, the sea-related activities add an adventurous dimension to your elopement. You could even incorporate a boat ride into your wedding film, capturing the azure expanse of the sea and the scenic coastline from a unique perspective.

Finally, the Azorean people's warm hospitality and laid-back lifestyle contribute to creating a relaxed and joyous atmosphere for your special day. Their love for their land and their traditions, from the unique 'Romeiros' pilgrimage to the local folk dances, can be woven into your celebration, making your elopement film truly distinctive.

In short, the Azores offers a perfect blend of seclusion, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking a unique and intimate elopement experience.

I was lucky to film here a few years back and the wedding happened to be timed with local folk traditions which was a beautiful thing to witness and one that would make a perfect backdrop to a memorable elopement film.

10. London and UK

Eloping in the United Kingdom, and specifically in its vibrant capital, London, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and stunning landscapes that create a remarkable backdrop for your elopement film.

London, one of the world's most iconic cities, offers an array of extraordinary venues and locations. Imagine exchanging vows in a historic palace or castle, or perhaps in one of the city's many beautiful parks, particularly Greenwich park where I lived for many years.

The city's iconic landmarks, such as Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, or the London Eye, provide stunning backdrops for

your film. For those seeking a more modern or urban vibe, the city's bustling streets, eclectic neighborhoods, and chic rooftop venues provide unique settings for your special day.

Beyond the capital, the UK is home to a diversity of landscapes, from the rugged cliffs of Cornwall, the serene lakes and mountains of the Lake District, to the charming villages of the Cotswolds. These locations offer an idyllic setting for a more intimate and nature-focused elopement. Imagine saying your vows on a windswept cliff, by a tranquil lake, or in a blooming meadow, with the stunning British countryside as your backdrop.

The UK's rich history adds a unique element to your elopement experience. Whether it's a ceremony in an ancient stone circle (I have been lucky enough to film in Stone Henge!), a historic castle, or a quaint village church, these locations imbue your elopement film with a sense of timelessness and romance. The country's cultural traditions, from Celtic handfasting ceremonies to the ringing of church bells, can be incorporated into your elopement, making your celebration truly unique.

Furthermore, the culinary scene in the UK, from traditional afternoon tea to the modern gastronomy of London's restaurants, can be a delightful part of your elopement experience. I filmed with one couple as they took an afternoon tea coach ride around the sites of London.

In conclusion, whether you're looking for an urban adventure in London, a countryside retreat, or a coastal escape, the UK offers a diverse and enchanting setting for your elopement. I have had the privilege of filming numerous elopements across the UK and each one has offered a unique and deeply personal story to capture.

Hopefully this article has given you some food for thought and if you still need convincing on whether to have a videographer with you on your once in a lifetime trip, see my article on the Reasons to Book a Videographer for your Elopement or feel free to take a look at my portfolio for examples of the numerous elopement’s I have filmed across the world!