Greek island wedding venues offer unparalleled beauty and charm as couples can exchange vows against the backdrop of stunning sunsets, azure waters, and breathtaking cliffs. The islands of Greece offer a wide range of wedding venues, including intimate chapels, luxurious resorts, and beachfront settings. We have listed 13 of the Greek islands, each with its unique character.
Santorini, known for its breathtaking beauty, is an exquisite wedding destination that captures the hearts of couples from around the world. With its stunning cliffside views overlooking the sparkling Aegean Sea, this Greek island offers a dreamlike backdrop for exchanging vows. The iconic whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches create a picturesque setting, perfect for romantic ceremonies and memorable photographs.
Fanari Villas Luxury Hotel in Santorini is a picturesque retreat nestled at the tip of the Caldera, offering breathtaking sunset views of the sea and the island of Thirassia. With 16 luxurious suites, the 4-star boutique hotel provides upscale accommodation, capturing the traditional chic flair of Santorini. The charming village of Oia, perched on the cliffs above the Caldera, adds to the hotel’s allure, attracting couples with its enchanting architecture and stunning scenery. The hotel’s whitewashed exteriors and Santorini-style cave-like suites, adorned with handcrafted wooden furniture, blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Guests can relax in the outdoor swimming pool, enjoy terraces with sea and sunset views, and experience the romantic ambience that has made Fanari Villas a popular choice for couples celebrating special occasions such as honeymoons and weddings. The hotel’s prime location offers an incomparable view of the Aegean Sea, while the highlight of each evening is the breathtaking Santorini sunset, providing an unforgettable experience for guests.
Mykonos has gained immense popularity for several reasons. Its vibrant nightlife scene attracts partygoers from around the globe, with world-renowned clubs and beachfront bars offering unforgettable experiences. The island’s stunning beaches, such as Paradise and Super Paradise, boast crystal-clear waters and golden sands, providing a paradise for couples who are sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Additionally, Mykonos is known for its charming Cycladic architecture, characterized by whitewashed buildings and colourful doors and shutters, creating a postcard-perfect setting. Lastly, the island’s cosmopolitan atmosphere, with a blend of upscale boutiques, high-end restaurants, and a lively atmosphere, appeals to those seeking an exclusive wedding experience.
There is no shortage of luxurious wedding venues in Mykonos. Situated on a private peninsula with panoramic sea views, the Santa Marina Resort & Villas offers an exquisite Greek island wedding venue with elegant Mediterranean architecture, lush gardens, and a private sandy beach. In comparison, the Alemagou Restaurant is a bohemian-chic beachfront wedding venue that combines rustic charm with modern elegance. Located on Ftelia Beach, it offers a unique and laid-back atmosphere with its whitewashed walls, natural wooden elements, and breathtaking views. But the Cavo Tagoo is a luxury hotel perched on a cliffside, boasting magnificent views of Mykonos Town and the deep blue sea. Its minimalist design, sleek lines, and infinity pool create a sophisticated and contemporary ambience.
Today, Rhodes Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its historical significance is evident in its well-preserved medieval city, ancient ruins, and architectural marvels. Rhodes was settled by Doric Greeks in the 5th century BC and later became a major centre of the Hellenistic world. The island prospered under the rule of the famous Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which stood at the entrance of the harbour.
Rhodes is a destination for a majestic wedding as it boasts wedding venues with historic grandeur. A slightly unusual wedding venue is Kallithea Springs which is a historic spa complex located on the eastern coast of Rhodes. The venue combines natural beauty with distinctive Italian-style architecture, featuring stunning gardens, charming terraces, and breathtaking sea views. The Grand Master’s Palace, located in Rhodes City’s medieval Old Town, offers a truly unique wedding venue rich in history and grandeur. The palace, originally built by the Knights Hospitaller, showcases impressive Gothic and Ottoman architectural elements. With its grand courtyards, ornate halls, and majestic atmosphere, couples can have a fairytale-like wedding in a setting that exudes timeless elegance and historical significance.
Milos, with its rich history and mythological associations, adds a touch of enchantment to any wedding celebration. The island is said to be the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, whom the Venus de Milo statue represents. Being in the presence of this ancient symbol of love and beauty can evoke a sense of timeless romance.
The Venus de Milo statue was discovered in 1820 when a French naval officer named Olivier Voutier discovered fragments of a marble statue while exploring the island. Recognizing their significance, the French consul acquired the fragments and sent them to France. The renowned archaeologist Charles-François Le Normant de Tournehem reconstructed the statue, which depicted a female figure believed to be Aphrodite (Venus). The statue, missing its arms, became known as Venus de Milo. Its exceptional beauty and artistry made it a celebrated masterpiece. The island of Milos combines myth, history, natural beauty, and a serene atmosphere to create a truly romantic wedding destination. The presence of the Venus de Milo statue adds an extra layer of romantic symbolism, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a wedding celebration infused with timeless love and enchantment.
Paros is a captivating Greek island in the Cyclades known for its beauty and charm. With its idyllic sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and traditional Cycladic architecture, it offers a postcard- perfect setting for a destination wedding in Greece. The island’s main town, Parikia, is a maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches, exuding a charming and romantic atmosphere. Paros also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with art galleries, museums, and lively nightlife, making it a beloved wedding destination for both relaxation and exploration. Paros offers a variety of wedding venues, from luxurious to traditional.
The Saint Andrea Seaside Resort is a luxurious venue located in Naoussa, Paros. With its stunning beachfront location, elegant Mediterranean-style architecture, and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, it offers a sophisticated setting for a romantic wedding. In contrast, the Agia Irini Chapel is a charming and traditional venue situated on a hilltop overlooking the picturesque Agia Irini Bay. With its whitewashed walls, blue-domed roof, and stunning panoramic views, it provides an idyllic and intimate setting for a wedding ceremony.
Skiathos gained fame as a filming location for the movie “Mamma Mia!”. Fans of the film can visit the iconic chapel of Agios Ioannis, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, where one of the movie’s memorable scenes was shot.
The island is home to over 60 beaches, each with its unique charm. Popular beaches like Koukounaries and Lalaria are known for their natural beauty, while Vromolimnos and Banana Beach offer water sports and lively beach bars. If you’re dreaming of a beach wedding in Greece, consider the Skiathos Princess Resort, which is a luxurious beachfront venue located on the stunning sandy beach of Agia Paraskevi. With its elegant architecture, lush gardens, and panoramic sea views, it offers a romantic and idyllic setting for a seaside wedding in Greece.
If you want to immerse yourself in the charm of Greek island coastal towns, the Bourtzi Boutique Hotel is a charming venue situated in Skiathos Town. Located on a hillside overlooking the town’s picturesque harbour, with its traditional Greek architecture and beautiful gardens, it offers a unique and enchanting setting for exchanging vows.
Sifnos has a strong sense of traditional culture and a commitment to preserving its heritage. Sifnos is famous for its vibrant festivals and celebrations throughout the year. The island hosts traditional festivities, such as the Panagia Chrysopigi Festival, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy music, dance, and traditional cuisine. The island is also renowned for its skilled craftsmen, particularly in pottery and ceramics. Couples and their guests can explore traditional workshops and witness the creation of beautiful handmade pieces.
If you’re leaning towards a traditional wedding venue in Greece, the Agia Marina Chapel is a charming venue situated in the village of Kastro. This picturesque chapel, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Aegean Sea, offers an intimate and romantic atmosphere for a wedding ceremony.
Kos has a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. The island was an important centre of the ancient Greek civilization and was home to renowned figures like Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine. Couples can explore historical sites such as the Asklepion, an ancient healing centre. The main town of Kos is a lively and vibrant hub that blends history with modern amenities. The town also features important landmarks like the Ancient Agora and the Tree of Hippocrates, a massive plane tree believed to be the spot where Hippocrates taught his students.
Kos is known for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sands, which can serve as your beach wedding venue. From popular stretches like Tigaki and Paradise Beach to quieter coves like Limnionas and Mastichari, there’s a beach to suit every preference.
Tinos is known as a major religious centre in Greece. The island is home to the Church of Panagia Evangelistria, an iconic and spiritually significant venue as it houses the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. With its beautiful interior adorned with intricate artwork, it creates a sacred and memorable atmosphere for a religious wedding ceremony.
Tinos showcases traditional Cycladic architecture with its whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and beautiful stone-paved streets. The island’s main town features impressive neoclassical mansions and charming squares. The picturesque village of Volax is renowned for its unique architecture. Nestled in a valley surrounded by giant granite boulders, this charming village provides a stunning and distinctive setting for a memorable outdoor wedding. The natural beauty of the landscape, combined with the traditional Cycladic architecture and the village’s tranquil ambience, creates a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Additionally, Tinos has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in its traditions and local customs. The island is famous for its marble sculpting, with many workshops where artisans continue the craft. Tinos also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Tinian Artists’ Festival and the Cultural Summer Festival, celebrating art, music, and theatre. Visiting the festivals can be a great activity for your honeymoon.
Lefkada is renowned for its beaches – Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Kathisma are among the most famous beaches in Greece. Lefkada offers numerous luxury villas available for rent, many of which provide exquisite settings for intimate Greek island weddings. These villas often come with breathtaking sea views, private gardens or terraces, and stylish interiors. Choosing a villa as a wedding venue allows couples to enjoy privacy, personalized service, and a truly exclusive experience.
One unique aspect of Lefkada is that it is connected to mainland Greece by a floating bridge, making it easily accessible by car. This accessibility allows the couples and their guests to get to the island easily without the need for ferry transfers.
The island is also known for its breathtaking cliffs, lush green hills, and dramatic coastlines. The couples can explore hidden gems like the stunning waterfalls of Nydri or take in panoramic views from high vantage points such as Cape Lefkatas, where ancient Greek poet Sappho is said to have leapt into the sea.
Hydra is known for its distinctive architectural beauty and preservation of its traditional character. The absence of motor vehicles on the island adds to its charm, with transportation mainly relying on donkeys and water taxis. The island’s main town features elegant stone mansions, narrow cobblestone streets, and picturesque waterfront promenades. Hydra has a rich cultural history that has attracted artists, writers, and musicians over the years. The island was a hub of cultural and intellectual activity in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, couples can explore art galleries and museums and attend cultural events that celebrate Hydra’s artistic legacy.
If you’re looking for a laid-back but also culturally saturated wedding destination in Greece, Hydra is the place for you as it exudes a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere. Couples can spend their honeymoon strolling through the town’s streets, enjoying the local cuisine at seaside taverns, or simply sitting at a waterfront café and soaking in the island’s laid-back ambience. The Sunset Restaurant is a popular wedding venue located in the town of Hydra. Situated on a hilltop overlooking the scenic Hydra harbour, it offers stunning panoramic views and a romantic atmosphere for a wedding celebration. The venue features elegant outdoor terraces and charming indoor space.
If you’re looking for a truly breathtaking wedding venue in Greece, Hydronetta is a unique and enchanting venue situated on the rocks at the edge of Hydra Town. This cliffside venue offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding coastline. Couples can say their vows against the backdrop of the sparkling blue waters and enjoy an unforgettable reception on the open- air terraces.
If you’re looking for an authentic, private and personalized wedding experience, Lemnos is not as heavily touristic as some other Greek islands. The island offers a range of venues, from beachfront locations to traditional village settings, providing options for couples to create their dream wedding according to their preferences. Lemnos has a fascinating history and is known for its archaeological sites and ancient ruins. Consider a wedding at Myrina Castle, where you can exchange vows in the castle’s courtyard or on the castle walls. The castle’s impressive walls, towers, and panoramic views of the sea create a romantic and enchanting atmosphere. Incorporating elements of the island’s history and culture into the wedding can add a unique and meaningful touch to the celebration.
If you’re interested in ancient Greek mythology and literature, you’re familiar with Homer, the ancient Greek poet who authored the Iliad and the Odyssey. You should visit Ios, which is believed to be the final resting place of Homer. The island is home to the Tomb of Homer, and it also has archaeological sites dating back to ancient times.
Additionally, Ios is renowned for its lively and vibrant nightlife, especially in the main town of Chora. The town’s narrow streets are filled with bars, clubs, and music venues, attracting young couples seeking a lively party scene. Even the beaches of Ios radiate a vibrant beach atmosphere, making them ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and socializing.
If you’re planning your wedding at Ios, choose a terrace wedding venue for a lively celebration. The Salt Restaurant and Pathos Lounge Bar & Restaurant are just two of the venues that offer a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the town and the coastline. These trendy and modern venues provide a stylish setting to enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine under the stars.
Author: Renāte Berga