Hi there! I’m Larissa, a destination wedding and elopement photographer with a passion for capturing love stories in breathtaking places — and Greece is one of my absolute favorites. If you’re wondering How to Elope in Greece, you’re in the right place! If you’re dreaming about eloping in Greece, you’re in for a romantic, adventurous, and visually stunning experience.
From sun-kissed beaches to ancient ruins, Greece offers endless inspiration for couples ready to say “I do” in an unforgettable way. This step-by-step guide will walk you through How to Elope in Greece, covering everything from location ideas to legal logistics — with plenty of insider tips along the way.
Why Elope in Greece?
Greece isn’t just a beautiful place — it’s a vibe. It’s where timeless history meets modern romance. Here’s why so many couples choose Greece as their elopement destination:
Perfect Weather: With a Mediterranean climate, Greece offers sunshine for most of the year — ideal for an outdoor ceremony or beachside celebration.
Iconic Scenery: Picture white-washed buildings, deep blue seas, olive groves, and ancient ruins. Greece is a photographer’s dream (and your wedding photos will be 🔥).
Rich Culture: From lively tavernas and traditional music to incredible food and heartfelt hospitality, the culture here is both vibrant and welcoming.
Step 1: Choose the Perfect Location to Elope in Greece
Before you start booking flights, think about your dream setting. Greece has a variety of magical places to choose from:
Santorini: Known for its sunsets, white churches, and epic cliffside views — a classic choice for romance.
Mykonos: For couples who love a blend of elegance and nightlife, with luxury villas and postcard-worthy beaches.
Crete: A large island with everything from mountains to beaches, giving you lots of location variety.
Athens: Want ancient history in your backdrop? Consider a ceremony near the Acropolis or hidden Athenian gardens.
Photographer tip: Think about the lighting and background for your photos. Early morning or golden hour ceremonies offer the best light (and fewer crowds!).
Step 2: Set Your Elopement Budget
Like any destination wedding, planning a Greece elopement starts with a solid budget. Consider:
Vendors: Allocate funds for your officiant, photographer, hair and makeup, flowers, and perhaps a planner or travel coordinator.
Flights: Round-trip airfare from major U.S. cities varies widely by season (spring and fall are less expensive than peak summer).
Accommodations: Choose from boutique hotels, cliffside villas, or charming Airbnbs.
Step 3 one of the most important steps of How to Elope in Greece – Understand the Legal Requirements
Getting legally married in Greece is possible — but it takes preparation. Here’s what you’ll need:
Valid Passports
Birth Certificates
Certificate of No Impediment (a legal doc proving you’re free to marry)
Translations: Many documents must be officially translated into Greek.
Lead Time: Some paperwork must be submitted weeks in advance.
Pro tip: Some couples opt for a symbolic ceremony in Greece and take care of the legal paperwork at home to keep things simple.
Step 4 on How to Elope in Greece – Choose an Officiant
Select a local officiant familiar with the requirements for conducting ceremonies in Greece. This could be a civil officiant or a religious figure, depending on your preference. Many officiants can provide guidance on legalities and assist with paperwork.
Step 5: Plan Your Ceremony
Think about how you want your ceremony to unfold. Consider:
Vows: Personalize your vows to reflect your relationship.
Rituals: Incorporate any meaningful traditions, such as a unity ceremony or exchanging rings.
Photography: Find a photographer to capture this special day. As your photographer, I would help scout the perfect locations, plan your timeline around the best light, and help you feel natural in front of the camera.
Step 6: Decide on Guests (If Any)
Elopements are often just the two of you — but they don’t have to be. If you want to include a few loved ones, give them plenty of notice and help with logistics like accommodation, flights, and transportation.
Step 7: Embrace the Full Greek Experience
Don’t just show up for the ceremony — immerse yourselves in the magic of Greece. Here are a few unforgettable experiences to enjoy during your elopement trip:
Island Hopping: Explore hidden coves and charming villages.
Greek Cuisine: Share a romantic meal at a taverna with ocean views, or take a local cooking class.
Wellness Time: Book a couples massage or spa day to unwind.
Final Thoughts from a Greece Elopement Photographer:
Eloping in Greece is more than just a wedding — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey filled with emotion, beauty, and adventure. With the right planning (and the right people by your side!), it can be as stress-free as it is breathtaking.
If you’re looking for a photographer to capture your love story against the backdrop of Greece’s legendary beauty, I’d love to chat! I specialize in intimate weddings and elopements, and I know all the best spots, hidden gems, and lighting tricks to make your photos truly unforgettable.
Feel free to reach out here — let’s make your dream Greek elopement come to life!
