How To Elope In Iceland: The Ultimate Elopement Guide

As an elopement photographer, I believe that love can be celebrated anywhere. One highly underrated place to elope is Iceland. A Nordic Island country is widely known for its gorgeous capital city of Reykjavik. Contrary to popular belief, Iceland has many greenery, mountains, and cliffs. Don’t get me wrong though, you will find plenty of volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs while you’re there too. It’s one of those countries where once you go once, you have to go back again. With that being said, eloping in this beautiful country is a must-see for sure. Below is the ultimate elopement guide on how to elope in Iceland, for couples looking for beauty and an adventure for their wedding day.

Why Have An Iceland Elopement?

You’re probably thinking, “Kristen, why have an Iceland elopement to begin with?”. To which I say, you’re totally right. Why would you choose to have an Iceland elopement over everything else? Could it be because of its stunning scenery? Or maybe the chance to view one of nature’s phenomenons, the northern lights? Maybe it’s visiting one of the most stunning capitals, Reykjavik, and enjoying some fantastic food? I don’t know… to me it seems like the possibilities of having an Iceland elopement are endless.

How Do You Legally Elope in Iceland?

Before jetting off to Iceland to tie the knot, you will need to know how to legally elope in Iceland. This means all of the fun, legal jargon, and whatnot. Here is a list of the items that you will need to have or have done before eloping in Iceland.

• Your Passports
• Birth Certificates
• Iceland Marriage Notification Form
• Marriage Certification (must be issued 8 weeks prior to your wedding)
• Documentation of separation/divorced or being widowed (if applicable)
• Proof that you are in Iceland legally (this could be your airline ticket, itinerary or stamped passport or visa).

I know, not everything is all rainbows and unicorns however if you’re wanting to elope in Iceland you will need to take these measures. When it comes to eloping in Iceland however, a lot of couples will choose to have a ceremony in their country/state of origin. Then travel to Iceland for a more symbolic elopement. This eliminates a lot of the legal work that you have to put in in order to elope in Iceland.

Do You Need A Permit To Elope In Iceland?

Once you have taken care of all the legal things to elope in Iceland, you are going to need to figure out locations. First things first, you’ll need to know whether or not you need a permit to elope in Iceland. You’ll be happy to hear that many of the most well-known and beautiful Iceland elopement locations won’t require a special use permit. Basically, what that means, you won’t need to purchase any additional permits to get married at most locations. This not only makes your life easier but allows you the most freedom when it comes to your Iceland Elopement.

Best Time Of Year For Your Iceland Elopement

Ideally before planning your Iceland elopement, you want to choose a wedding date during the best time of year. Knowing the best time of year for your Iceland elopement will not only create the most seamless wedding experience but can help you in choosing elopement locations!

Spring (March-May)

Spring is one of the most perfect seasons to elope in Iceland. It begins to warm up as winter slowly withers away. You’re left with vibrant green hills and mountains that make the perfect backdrop for some elopement photos. Much like any other time in Spring, you do have the chance of getting rained on your elopement. However, while running that risk know that you can get plenty of benefits by eloping in Iceland in the Spring.

Summer (June-August)

Typically you will find a lot of tourists visiting Iceland during the Summer months. While Spring has passed by, you’re still left with all of the lush greenery and much warmer weather. While many people may choose to elope in Iceland during the Summer, just know you are more than likely going to see a ton of tourists. So if you’re wanting to elope in Iceland at somewhere remotely popular, beware of tons of people.

Fall (September-November)

Heading to Iceland during the early Fall months will give you fewer crowds but still have the nice temperatures from the warm Summer months. Be warned though that if you’re wanting to elope in Iceland during the Fall that the sun does begin to set earlier in the day. This may mean that you need to have your ceremony earlier in the day, especially if you value your elopement photos.

Winter (December-February)

Winter will be a good time of year to elope in Iceland if you love that wintery magic. You’re able to view the northern lights and embrace a brisker temperature. However, be warned that you will not get to see all of that lush greenery that Iceland has to offer you.

Overall, whichever season you choose to elope in Iceland, they each have their pros and cons.

How To Elope In Iceland: Elopement Locations

I’m an elopement photographer and I can tell you that without a doubt, Iceland has some of the most beautiful elopement locations. Below is a list of some of the most beautiful places to elope in Iceland.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Translating to “Golden Falls”, Gullfoss Waterfall is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls and is absolutely breathtaking. The waterfalls roar and is a beautiful backdrop for any of your elopement portraits.

As far as I know, you are not required to purchase a special use permit to elope at Gullfoss Waterfall. However, depending on when you’re reading this I would recommend keeping up to date with all current rules & regulations to be on the safe side!

Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach is a strip of black sand belonging to the Breiðamerkursandur glacial plain. It’s about a 4.5-hour drive from Reykjavik but well worth the drive once you see the stunning landscaping. During the summer months, Diamond Beach can become packed. So I suggest either doing a sunrise elopement at Diamond Beach or heading there towards the off-season (December-February) for a more quiet and less crowded vibe.

In order to elope at Diamond Beach you will be required to purchase a permit through the Iceland National Parks website. Drones are also not permitted to be flown at Diamond Beach, so keep that in mind if you’re planning on hiring a videographer for your Iceland elopement.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is as unique as its name. It’s one of the three stops on the Golden Circle sightseeing tour and is home to Iceland’s largest natural lake. If you’re wanting a bit of everything, then Thingvellir National Park is your best bet. You have mountains, waterfalls, and plenty of hiking trails to enjoy for your Iceland elopement.

Like any other National Park in Iceland, you will be required to contact the National Park office to obtain a special use permit to be able to elope at Thingvellir National Park.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is one of Iceland’s most stunning canyons. Due to its recent spike in popularity, they’ve had to close this canyon for part of the year in order to help restore nature. Between March – June they close the canyon to be able to let nature run its course and be back open to the public to be able to admire. Like many of Iceland’s parks, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon maintains its beauty with stunning greenery and waterfalls. While the name may be hard to pronounce, choosing this as an elopement location is an easy decision.

How Much Does It Cost To Elope in Iceland?

There is this common misconception that automatically if you elope you’re spending less money. While this can be the case for many elopements, it is entirely dependent on your budget and what you choose to spend money on. When it comes to your Iceland elopement, however, expect to pay a little bit more than any other elopement location.

Iceland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Don’t believe me? Google it. Due to the cost of food, transportation, and activities, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for your Iceland elopement.

Some things that you need to take into account for your Iceland elopement are:

• Travel (airplane tickets, car rentals, bus rides, etc)
• Lodging (hotels or Airbnb)
• Photographer/Videographer (*cough cough*)
• Florist
• Wedding Attire (dress, shoes, tux, accessories, etc)
• Hair & Makeup

These are just the minimum amount of expenses that you will need to take into account for your Iceland elopement. Remember, you don’t need to spend tens of thousands of dollars to elope in Iceland. However, expect to spend some money to have an epic and memorable Iceland elopement for you and your boo.

Airbnb’s For Your Iceland Elopement

If you’re currently in the midst of planning your Iceland elopement, you’re also going to need to find decent lodging. I mean, after all, you’re getting married. You want to make sure that you’re finding ample lodging that will help celebrate your Iceland elopement the right way.

Below is a list of some amazing Airbnb’s for you to check out for your Iceland elopement:

Modern Akureyri Apartment

Skrida Cottage

Kirkjufell Paradise

Múlakot Cabin

Varmahlíð Hestasport Cottage

Hotels For Your Iceland Elopement

If an Airbnb is not your scene and you’re looking for more of that hotel vibe with top-quality amenities, I got you. As an Iceland Elopement Photographer, it is my job to help you along the way to make sure you have the most epic Iceland elopement.

Below is a list of some great hotels to check out during your stay in Iceland for your Iceland elopement:

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

The Reykjavik EDITION

Iceland Parliament Hotel

Silica Hotel

Hotel Geysir

Hotel Rangá

How To Elope In Iceland: The Ultimate Elopement Guide

Hopefully by reading through this ultimate elopement guide on how to elope in Iceland, I’ve hooked you. If you’re in need of an Iceland Elopement Photogerapher to help ease your wedding planning stress and help you plan your most epic elopement, you know who to call!

Get In Touch! | Iceland Elopement Photographer

Hey, I’m Kristen! If you’re looking for an epic adventure with an Iceland Elopement Photographer, then I’m your girl. Inquire here and let’s start chatting about having the most epic elopement EVA.