How to Elope in Iceland in 2025
Last updated: December 6, 2024
This will be the best moment of your life.
So, you're thinking about eloping in Iceland? Heck yes! Picture this: waterfalls so epic they belong in a movie, black sand beaches that scream drama, glaciers that look like they’ve been plucked straight from another planet. If you're all about adventure, killer views, and an unforgettable wedding day, Iceland is the place to make it happen. Let’s break it down so you can plan a day that feels as rad as your love story.
Table of contents:
Things to know when eloping in Iceland
Budgets for eloping in Iceland in 2025
Transportation in Iceland
Best time to visit Iceland
Best elopement locations in Iceland
Accommodation in Iceland
Activities in Iceland (for eloping, or just for fun)
To-do list
Cal & Lea's (Poly) Iceland Elopement
- The locations are endless! Think cliffs, lava fields, glaciers, and beaches that look straight out of a movie. If you're into waterfalls, you've chosen the right country, because you've got a million choices on how tall and thick you want your waterfall backdrop. And you can find water as blue as a sapphire, landscapes that make you feel like you're on Mars, and rainbow-colored mountains. You'll be driving around thinking you're in an IMAX theater, but it's just real life!
- Book your photographer and accommodation first, because these are booked sometimes more than a year ahead! If you need vendor recommendations, your photographer should be able to help you out with those things. I suggest chatting with/booking your photographer before setting specific dates and booking accommodation, because your photographer can help you with finding the best areas for you to look since they have local knowledge. If you want to book a glass cabin, make sure you book it quickly because they can go fast.
- And when booking a glass cabin, I recommend it only in mid August until early April, otherwise your chances of seeing Northern Lights aren't so good. IMO, there's too much daylight from mid April-mid August for that. It is still possible, just much less likely.
- The weather is a topic; I mean this in a big way. Of all the places in the world I've been, I can compare it to Patagonia the best. It can be absolutely lovely and warm, so please don't let me scare you off. But it can also be so windy that you can't stand up straight, or so foggy that you can't see a few meters in front of you. Umbrellas are useless here, so don't bother! Your photographer and/or planner should be able to help you with the right packing list to help you with whatever weather Iceland can bring. The perfect adventure elopement dress can be helpful, but besides that; bring layers (it can be very cold, even in summer), windbreakers/rain gear, proper hiking boots/shoes, and have a plan B in case of a storm. I recommend keeping a few days free for backup, just in case the weather is too crazy on your chosen day.
- Rent a car, and be careful about what you're renting. Most of the cheap cars are manual transmission, and I don't recommend learning how to drive that in a foreign country. Make sure to filter on automatic if you need that. If you end up with an electric car, there are plenty of chargers along the way. Just make sure to ask the rental company if you should download any apps to use at the chargers. Watch out for crazy drivers, there's lots of those over here! And the speeding fines are horrendously expensive, so make sure to watch out for speed cameras. One last tip: be careful of the wind when opening your car doors. Insurance will not cover you if the wind rips your door off or opens it onto someone else's car.
- If you choose to take public transit, you can still get to a lot of places. But you won't be able to explore much beyond the major tourist hubs, so I don't recommend it.
- You will be able to get around using your credit card, Though to avoid fees and bad conversion rates, I highly recommend using Wise or Revolut. They are both free to use, Wise is probably a bit cheaper overall, but Revolut is more known. I use both and am super happy with them! They don't charge fees for international charges like credit cards, they use a very good conversion rate, they give you cash back for keeping money in the account, and they are the cheapest way to transfer money to people internationally (say, your photographer)! You can use my referral codes if you do need to transfer money internationally, and want a first free transfer:
Wise
Revolut
Heads up; I'm not affiliated with either, they have just made my life a lot easier when travelling and for accepting payments, so I'm stoked to support them. - If you're hiking, download an offline map like Organic Maps or Maps.Me. They will help you with pinning trail locations so you can plan your hiking routes, and even can tell you how long they will take, elevation, and water stops. Recently, I've found Maps.Me to be inaccurate for time estimations (way over estimating) so be cautious and compare with what you find online.
- The volcanoes can still be active. To the locals, the eruptions feel pretty normal, and they don't pay too much attention to them. Of course, they have great warning systems in place if something serious were to happen, but it's not uncommon for lava to flow. Though it is normal, some tragedies have happened in the past, so just be cautious when talking to the locals about it.
Good things to know when eloping in Iceland:
It's difficult to elope "cheap" in Iceland, because it's just an expensive country. That being said, you can still make it more budget friendly, if you need to. Check out XE.com to find the conversion rates for your currency, where they use the Icelandic Krona (not the Euro). I will use USD in my prices.
Budgets for eloping in Iceland in 2025:
- Flights to Iceland (from Europe: $220–$550 per person; from North America: $550–$1,300 per person).
- Rental car or camper van ($85–$215/day depending on style).
- Gas: Budget around $2.15/litre)
- Hotels, guesthouses, or Airbnbs: $110–$325+/night
- Camping or camper van stays: $20–$45/night.
- Groceries: $55–$110 for a few days of essentials.
- Dining out: Around $22–$45 per meal per person for casual spots, and more for fancier dining.
Elopement-Specific Costs (Approx. $5,500–$16,000):
- Photographer: $3,200–$10,000+ (depending on hours, experience, and travel coverage).
- Officiant or Celebrant: $550–$1,100.
- Bouquet/Floral Design: $110–$330 for something beautifully wild and Iceland-inspired.
- Outfits: Dress, suit, and accessories — costs vary depending on how extra you want to go, and most likely you will get these at home anyway.
Optional Add-ons to Make It Extra Special:
- Glacier hike ($160–$270 per person).
- Ice cave tour ($160–$220 per person).
- Helicopter ride for next-level views ($330–$1,100 per person).
- Videographer: $3,300–$6,600.
- Hair & Makeup: $220–$550 for on-location services.
- Elopement Planner: $1,200-$5000 if you want someone to handle the logistics.
In the summer, renting is easy, nothing to worry about (aside from making sure to get automatic if you need it). Renting a car during winter, though, can be daunting. Rental companies will put winter tires on their cars from October to April. Still make sure you rent a 4WD, or at least AWD, to make it safer.
Even in the summer, I recommend a 4x4 because otherwise you won't be allowed to go on certain "F" roads. Most F roads will require a heavy-duty 4WD, but there is the F35, which you can easily get away with a regular 4x4. It's a major tourist (unsealed) road that's pretty well maintained, so it's the only F road that insurance companies will cover so long as you have a 4x4.
If you rent a camper van or rooftop tent, please be extra careful when it's windy. Because you will have a taller vehicle, it is more likely to tip over, and your tent can even get ripped off in extreme cases. Especially in the north coast.
Extreme weather can cause road closures, so make sure to keep up with the weather here and the road closures here:
Iceland Weather
Iceland Road Closures
How to get around in Iceland in 2025:
Best Time to Visit Iceland in 2025:
Spring (April–May)
Spring in Iceland is like nature waking up and throwing a little party. The snow melts, waterfalls go wild, and the days get longer fast. Temperatures are still chilly (around 0–10°C / 32–50°F), so layer up, but trust me — the fresh green landscapes and roaring falls are worth it. The crowds aren’t as crazy as summer, so you can actually enjoy places like Skógafoss without a million tourists. Puffins start coming back too, which is just adorable. Some roads in the highlands might still be closed, but there’s plenty to explore on the Ring Road. The weather’s a bit unpredictable (think sunny one minute, snowstorm the next), but that’s part of the adventure, right? In May, the midnight sun starts to be a thing.
Summer (June–August)
Summer in Iceland is peak season, and for good reason: it’s warm (ish — around 10–15°C / 50–60°F), the highlands are open, and in June/early July, there’s basically no nighttime. Yep, the midnight sun means you can plan your ceremony for 11 PM and still catch epic golden-hour light. You’ll have access to spots like Landmannalaugar and Askja, which are totally worth the hype. It’s also the perfect season for adventures like glacier hikes and horseback rides. The downside? Everybody else thinks so too, so popular spots like Reynisfjara Beach can get crowded. Pro tip: go really early or really late in the day to beat the rush. Oh, and book your car, stays, and everything else early — summer prices are no joke!
Fall (September–October)
Fall in Iceland is pure magic. The landscapes turn golden, the temps drop to a "cozy" 2–10°C / 35–50°F, and — drumroll, please — the northern lights start making an appearance! Fewer tourists mean you’ll have more privacy at places like Snæfellsnes or Seljalandsfoss, so it feels way more intimate. The first snow might even dust the mountains while the waterfalls are still going strong, giving you that epic “fire and ice” vibe. It’s perfect for snuggling in between photos or hopping into a hot spring post-vows. Just be ready for some rain, snow, or wicked wind (it’s Iceland, after all). Pack layers, grab a sturdy jacket, and go chase those autumn vibes!
Winter (November–March)
Winter in Iceland is like living in a snow globe. The mountains are covered in snow, the waterfalls look straight out of a movie, and the northern lights are ready to steal the show. Sure, it’s cold (-2 to 3°C / 28–38°F), and daylight is short (4–6 hours in December), but the vibe is cozy and magical. You can explore ice caves, walk on glaciers, or say your vows under the green glow of the aurora. Some roads (okay, most highland roads) are closed, but there are still plenty of jaw-dropping places you can reach, like Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Kirkjufell. Weather can be a little wild, so stay flexible and pack warm layers. If you’re cool with a little unpredictability, winter elopements here are next-level unforgettable.
Skógafoss
If you’re dreaming of a dramatic waterfall backdrop, Skógafoss is your spot. This 200-foot (60-meter) stunner is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, and for good reason — it’s straight-up majestic. On sunny days, you might even catch a rainbow in the mist, making it feel like nature’s cheering you on as you say your vows. It’s easy to access right off the Ring Road, so no crazy hiking required. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the 370-ish steps to the top for a killer view of the surrounding valley. Just keep in mind, it’s a popular spot, so sunrise or late evening is your best bet for privacy. Bonus: there’s a legend about hidden treasure buried behind the falls — how cool is that?
P
Best Elopement Locations in Iceland for 2025:
Reynisfjara (Black Sand Beach)
Reynisfjara is like stepping onto another planet. The black volcanic sand, towering basalt columns, and crashing waves make it one of the most unique elopement backdrops in the world. The sea stacks offshore (called Reynisdrangar) add a touch of myth and drama — local lore says they’re trolls turned to stone. It’s perfect for couples who want something moody and cinematic. But heads up: the waves here are no joke, so keep a safe distance (seriously, those sneaker waves are intense). Sunrise is magical, with soft light and fewer tourists. If you’re down for exploring, nearby cliffs offer incredible views and puffin sightings in the summer.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
If you’re looking for a little bit of everything, Snæfellsnes is your one-stop-shop for Iceland’s greatest hits. Think black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, lava fields, and even a glacier-topped volcano. Kirkjufell, the cone-shaped mountain here, is Insta-famous for a reason and looks incredible with the northern lights dancing above it. The peninsula is less crowded than some of Iceland’s other big-name spots, so it’s ideal for a more private, intimate vibe. You can explore at your own pace, stopping for vow exchanges wherever the scenery speaks to you. It’s like a mini-Iceland road trip packed into one area.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by floating icebergs. Jökulsárlón is pure magic, with massive chunks of glacier breaking off and drifting through the lagoon. The deep blue and crystal-clear ice make for unreal photos, especially when the northern lights show up in winter. It’s just off the Ring Road in southeast Iceland, so getting there is a breeze. For a little extra adventure, head across the road to Diamond Beach, where the ice chunks wash up on black sand like sparkling gems. Whether you’re into moody winter vibes or glowing summer sunsets, this spot delivers year-round magic.
Landmannalaugar
Calling all adventure junkies: Landmannalaugar is your dream elopement destination. Located in the highlands, this geothermal wonderland is full of colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming hot springs, and epic hiking trails. Summer (June–September) is the best time to visit, as the roads here are closed in winter. It’s a bit remote and requires a 4x4 to get there, but the reward? A completely otherworldly backdrop for your vows. After your ceremony, you can soak in the natural hot springs — how’s that for post-“I do” relaxation? The vibe here is wild, rugged, and perfect for couples who want to embrace Iceland’s untamed beauty.
Seljalandsfoss
Want a waterfall you can actually walk behind? Seljalandsfoss has you covered. This epic 200-foot (60-meter) waterfall lets you step behind the curtain of water for a truly unique elopement backdrop. Just be ready to get a little wet (worth it, though). It’s an easy walk from the parking lot and super accessible for all adventure levels. If you’re looking for even more seclusion, wander a bit further to Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall tucked inside a canyon just a short hike away. Sunrise or sunset is the best time to visit, with soft light and fewer tourists crowding your photos.
And there are so many others! Both highlights, and random spots. Honestly, you can just drive and walk around and you will find incredible backdrops everywhere. Your photographer and/or planner should be able to help you find the best place for you and whatever it is that you want/require. You just need to tell them what your goal is, whether it's hiking, taking a gondola, driving with photo stops, staying in huts, quiet places... everyone has different things in mind and "non-negotiables".
This is a huge part of the reason you hire experts; not just for beautiful photos, but to help you with the most seamless experience possible, tips and tricks you can't find on your own, and overall profesionalism.
Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park is one of Iceland’s most iconic and historically rich elopement spots. It’s where Iceland’s first parliament was established over 1,000 years ago, and it also happens to sit right on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Yep, you can literally say your vows between two tectonic plates — how cool is that? The rugged cliffs, lush moss, and glacial rivers make for stunning backdrops, and there are so many unique spots within the park to choose from for your ceremony.
There are so many options. Many are what you would normally book, a hotel or Airbnb, but you can book some really unique places here.
You've got some choices of glass cabins, "summer houses", hotels, glamping and various other forms of camping.
If you're up for adventure, I recommend trying out glamping/camping experiences. You can have some very special experiences in some of the most beautiful campsites I've ever seen. Keep in mind if you're camping: it can often be very windy! Tents can flap all night, keeping light sleepers up. So bring some earplugs, or choose for a less noisy experience.
Staying in camper vans can be a good alternative. You will still need to pay for campsites per night, but you have a vehicle and accommodation for the price of one! Just be careful when driving in snow, especially if it's very windy. There is a small chance of tipping the taller vans over.
Glamping is a big thing here. There are some really cool mini A-frame cabins (just with beds, nothing else), yurts, and canvas tents that you can stay in. You can sometimes choose to get certain meals included here too, cook yourself, or eat out.
There is also an endless supply of glass cabins here. They are perfect for gazing at the endless beauty of this country, but especially for Northern Lights. Not to be a bummer, but just a heads-up: You can pay a hefty price for them and see no northern lights at all. You never know with the weather and the solar activity. You can download some aurora watching apps to keep a look out, but they are only accurate close to the date. You can at least up your chances of seeing them by booking these cabins from mid-August to early April, so at least you get some adequate darkness.
P
Accommodation in Iceland in 2025:
You've got a lot of choices on things to do here. Whether you do it during your elopement/wedding, or before or after, that's up to you. But keep in mind, some of these things can certainly be combined with saying your vows and/or your photo session!
So, you can:
If you’re eloping in winter, visiting an ice cave is a must. These natural wonders form in glaciers and look like something out of a fantasy movie, with vivid blue walls and intricate formations. You’ll need a guide to safely explore them, but trust me, it’s worth it. Imagine exchanging vows or snapping post-ceremony photos surrounded by glowing ice. It’s like stepping into another world.
Winter Caves: Popular caves like the ones in Vatnajökull Glacier are accessible from November to March, sometimes stretching into April if conditions allow. These caves have those iconic, vivid blue walls because the ice has compressed over time, squeezing out air bubbles and allowing light to filter through.
Summer Caves: While most natural ice caves melt or become unstable in summer, Katla Ice Cave near Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is a year-round option. Katla is more of an ice tunnel than a traditional cave and is located under a layer of volcanic ash, so it has a mix of black, gray, and blue ice. It’s less vibrant than winter caves but still incredibly cool (literally and figuratively).
The northern lights are the ultimate Icelandic experience if you’re eloping between September and March. After your vows, bundle up with your partner and head out to find the aurora dancing in the sky. Pro tip: stay somewhere remote to avoid light pollution, or book a guided northern lights tour for the best chance to catch the show. It’s romantic, magical, and totally unforgettable.
Iceland is waterfall central, so why not hike to one that’s a bit off the beaten path? Spots like Kvernufoss or Gljúfrabúi are quieter but just as stunning as the big-name falls. Pack a picnic, bring your vows, and make your day extra special with a private waterfall moment. The sound of rushing water and the epic scenery make it feel straight out of a fairytale.
Get up close and personal with Iceland’s glaciers by joining a guided glacier hike. Strap on some crampons, grab an ice axe, and trek across otherworldly ice formations. It’s an epic way to add a touch of adventure to your day and snag some unreal photos. Bonus: some guides offer combo tours with ice caves for the ultimate winter experience.
Nothing says Icelandic relaxation like soaking in a natural hot spring. After your ceremony, kick back with your partner in spots like Reykjadalur Hot River, the Secret Lagoon, or the famous Blue Lagoon. There’s nothing quite like soaking in warm, mineral-rich water surrounded by Iceland’s epic scenery. Plus, it’s a great way to relax after a day of exploring.
Icelandic horses are adorable and majestic creatures. You can find places just on the side of the road to watch the frolic in the wind, and it's nothing short of beautiufl. It’s a fun, low-key way to connect with nature and add a unique twist to your elopement day.
If you’re eloping in summer, why not extend your adventure by camping under the midnight sun? With 24-hour daylight, you can hike, explore, or just chill without worrying about the time. It’s perfect for couples who love the outdoors and want a truly unique way to end their day.
Take a break from the land and head out to sea for a whale-watching tour. Iceland is home to humpbacks, orcas, and even blue whales, depending on the season. Imagine cruising through the ocean with your partner and spotting these majestic creatures in the wild. It’s peaceful, awe-inspiring, and a cool way to add a different perspective to your trip.
P
Activities in Iceland for Your Elopement:
- Research and Choose a Location: I've given you a few pointers above, the rest is up to you. If you need any help, reach out to photographers and/or planners in the area, hiring locals is always the best choice!
- Hire a Photographer and Planner before any other Vendors: They are the first ones to get booked up, along with venues, so they should be the first ones you contact so they can help you pick your exact date. Photographers should help you with itinerary creation for the day, locations, packing lists, vendor recommendations, and those sorts of things. Planners can help you book logistical things, hotels/huts, venues, and gift further vendor recommendations + booking all of those things for you. They ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. If you're not sure which vendors your need, check out this useful resource.
- Choose a Season and a Date: I've already told you what you need to know, so choose a season, or month, and chat with your photographer or planner about a specific date. If you are planning a multi-day elopement, here are 7 reasons why you won't regret it.
- Book Transportation: If you're renting a car. Public transport can be booked closer to the date, but I still recommend booking any trains/buses from out of the country (or from far Italian cities) at least a month in advance.
- Hire Other Professional Services: Whatever you haven't hired yet, don't leave it too last minute! You can book a videographer, florist, hair and makeup, decorators if you have a venue, stationary designer + printer, private chef, tour guides, and whatever else you need. If you hire a planner, she or he will book all of this for you.
Pro tip: Check out this free Ultimate 2025 Elopement Guide and remember to consult with professionals who can provide specific guidance based on your chosen location in Iceland.
They will be able to assist you with the intricate details and ensure a seamless elopement experience amidst the majestic mountains. It's the best way to make your elopement stress-free!
To-do list before Eloping in Iceland
Need more information?
- Check Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the legal requirements for getting married in Italy, if you want to do that. Contact the local municipality or consulate to understand the necessary documents, timelines, and any specific regulations, since they're a bit different everywhere. Hot tip: get married at home, and have a symbolic ceremony in Italy. It will save you a lot of grey hairs!
- Plan the Ceremony and Vows: Decide on the details of your ceremony, any rituals, or any unique elements you want to include. Consider the surroundings and the natural beauty of the Dolomites to inspire your ceremony "design". With the epic backdrop, you probably won't need much, or anything at all! But it is important to include things that are dear to your heart, whether it's something physical or it's the words that come from deep within your heart.
- Optional: Invite Family and Friends (for a video call): If you've really been dreaming of eloping, but still want your family and friends to be present (read blog post on this topic here), feel free to invite a few people along, or make sure everyone has a link to a video call. Get an e-sim and make sure you get a plan with enough data for the call to last! Or make sure you've got a videographer present.
- Enjoy the Experience: Make sure you've read the 2025 Elopement Checklist, so that on your actual elopement day, you can fully take the time to soak in the beauty of the Dolomites. Allow yourself to be present in the moment and celebrate your love in this breathtaking setting. Get emotional, get crazy, and marry that partner of yours!
Reach out
Thanks for the message, I will get back to you ASAP!
hello@shawnaraephotography.com
Are you interested in going on a well-documented adventure with me? Then fill out the form with any questions you have or send me an email.
I do my best to reply within 48 hours, although I could be out shooting a session or hiking in the mountains with no reception, so I do apologize for potential delays in my response. The best way to get in contact is definitely here or via direct email!
