You’re dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime, cinematic elopement abroad, and so let’s get into the top 5 elopement destinations outside of the US. Eloping is a luxury and it’s the start of your greatest adventure yet. You feel a pull toward destinations with history, culture, and landscapes you can’t find in the US. Let’s start planning the adventure! Let’s talk about Italy, Iceland, Mexico, and Scotland and get excited for the most epic experience yet. As a full service elopement planner and photographer you’ll have me here to guide you from legalities, scouting, vendor, and even lodging recommendation.

Lago di Braies, Dolomites, Italy

EPIC. This is number one in my top 5 elopement destinations outside of the US. If you’re just as obsessed check out the Eloping in the Dolomites Guide blog.

Why Lago di Braies Is Perfect for an Elopement

• Iconic turquoise lake surrounded by dramatic limestone peaks.
  
• Fairytale wooden rowboats + misty mornings = dreamy cinematic vibes.
  

Best Time of Year

• Early fall or late spring for fewer crowds + ideal light.
  

What Makes It Unique

• Easily accessible but feels remote.
  
• Works beautifully for sunrise ceremonies.
  

Elopement Ideas

• Sunrise vow exchange on the dock
  
• Rowboat portraits on the calm water
  
• Adventure session at Seceda or Tre Cime nearby
  

Lake Como, Italy

VOGUE. You betta work! This is ICONIC on my top 5 elopement destinations outside of the US. Stay in the mid lake region at either Vareena or Bellagio.

Why Lake Como Is a Top Luxury Elopement Destination

• Villa-lined shores, serene water, and timeless Italian elegance.
  
• Perfect for couples wanting an elevated, romantic European experience.
  

Best Time of Year

• April–June and September–October.
  

What Makes It Unique

• Boat rides, historic villas, Michelin-star dining.
  

Elopement Ideas

• Ceremony at a lakeside villa garden
  
• Boat photos at golden hour
  
• Intimate dinner overlooking the lake
  

Southern Iceland — Skógafoss & Black Sand Beach

MOODY. This is the spot for epic views without stress or extreme adventure. You can see icebergs, black sand beaches, and waterfalls all without hiking more than .5mi and within 8 hrs on your elopement day. With all that said of course it is on my top 5 elopement destinations outside of the US.

Why Iceland Is One of the Best Elopement Destinations Outside the US

• Otherworldly landscapes: waterfalls, glaciers, mossy cliffs, and volcanic black sand.
  
• Perfect for couples who want adventure, movement, and dramatic scenery.
  

Best Time of Year

• Summer for accessibility; winter for Northern Lights.
  

What Makes It Unique

• Skógafoss: misty, powerful waterfall moments.
  
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: cinematic, stormy romance.
  

Elopement Ideas

• Vows by Skógafoss at sunrise
  
• Jeep adventure to hidden waterfalls
  
• Portraits at Black Sand Beach
  
• Dinner inside a turf-roof cottage
  

Tulum, Mexico

UNIQUE. This is the spot for tropical vibes, culture, and interesting traditions. Because of how unique the cenotes are that is why it is on my top 5 elopement destinations outside of the US.

Why Tulum Is a Dreamy Tropical Elopement Spot

• White sand beaches, ancient ruins, cenotes, + lush jungles.
  
• Perfect for couples who want a spiritual, bohemian, or eco-luxury aesthetic.
  

Best Time of Year

• November–April for best weather.
  

What Makes It Unique

• Cenotes for underwater or reflective portraits.
  
• Boutique hotels + private beaches for intimate ceremonies.
  

Elopement Ideas

• Oceanfront vows at sunrise
  
• Portraits in a jungle or cenote
  
• Private dinner with candles + Mayan-influenced cuisine
  

Isle of Skye, Scotland

DREAMY. This is the spot for twighlight vibes with other worldly landscapes. This is not only one of the best places to elope but the origin of elopements making it to the top 5 elopement destinations outside of the US.

Why the Isle of Skye Is Perfect for a Moody, Romantic Elopement

• Misty cliffs, ancient stone formations, rolling green hills.
  
• Dramatic landscapes that feel straight out of folklore.
  

Best Time of Year

• Late spring–early fall for mildest weather.
  

What Makes It Unique

• Fairy Glen, Quiraing, Old Man of Storr = iconic Scotland magic.
  
• Perfect for couples wanting epic landscapes with solitude.
  

Elopement Ideas

• Ceremony at the Quiraing
  
• Foggy cliffside portraits
  
• Pub celebration in Portree
  

How to Choose the Perfect Elopement Destination Outside the US

• Climate + season
  
• Accessibility and travel time
  
• Activity level (adventure vs. luxury)
  
• Photography style + backdrop preferences
  
• Legal vs. symbolic ceremony considerations
  

Travel + Planning Tips for International Elopements

• Passport and legal paperwork reminders
  
• Travel insurance
  
• Best time to book flights + accommodations
  
• Packing list for long-distance elopements
  
• Working with local vendors
  

Your Love Story Deserves an Unforgettable Setting

• Encourage couples to dream boldly and go where their hearts feel most alive.
  
• Reaffirm that eloping internationally is more accessible than they think.
  
  Ready to plan an unforgettable elopement outside the US? Let’s create a custom experience that fits your story.