As a luxury wedding planner, one of my greatest joys is curating unforgettable experiences in some of the most stunning locations across Europe. For couples seeking the perfect destination to say “I do” in 2025, there are many options that offer unparalleled beauty, charm, and bespoke opportunities to make your special day truly extraordinary. Let me guide you through a few of my favourite 2025 destination wedding location ideas.
Portugal: Sun-kissed Elegance
Portugal continues to captivate couples with its warm climate, golden coastlines, and rich cultural heritage. For 2025, the Algarve’s sun-drenched beaches remain a timeless choice, but Lisbon and Sintra are emerging as luxury wedding hot spots. (Here are some I think are brilliant.)
When you think Portugal, think Lisbon. Historic palaces and chic rooftop venues overlooking the city’s iconic terracotta rooftops create the perfect backdrop for a cosmopolitan celebration. Sintra, with its fairy-tale castles such as the Palácio de Pena, create a romantic and whimsical setting amidst lush, rolling hills.
One unique trend I’ve seen is incorporating Portugal’s famous gastronomy into the wedding menu. Fresh seafood, pastel de nata desserts, and world-class wines. A live Fado performance adds a soulful touch. These are the kinds of memories that guests will treasure forever.
Mallorca: Mediterranean Bliss
Mallorca, the crown jewel of the Balearic Islands, is a haven for couples dreaming of a sun-soaked wedding with a touch of glamour. This Mediterranean paradise combines natural beauty with sophisticated luxury. Imagine exchanging vows at a clifftop villa overlooking the azure sea or hosting a reception in a historic finca nestled among olive groves and vineyards. The island’s luxury hotels offer impeccable service and exclusivity for couples wanting a flawless experience.
For 2025, consider embracing Mallorca’s bohemian-chic vibe. Decor inspired by the island’s natural palette—terracotta, creamy whites, and lush greens—pairs beautifully with al fresco dining under twinkling fairy lights. Serve your guests local delicacies like sobrassada and ensaïmada, paired with Mallorcan wines. You can’t go wrong in Mallorca.
Ireland: Timeless Romance
Ireland’s romantic allure will forever make it one of the best destination wedding locations. In 2025, it continues to enchant couples who desire an elegant wedding steeped in tradition and natural beauty. In Ireland, there are so many options to consider. Imagine a ceremony in the grandeur of a castle like Ashford or Adare, followed by a reception in a stately ballroom adorned with cascading floral arrangements. For those seeking something more intimate, a clifftop vow exchange offers breathtaking views and timeless wonder for all who attend.
One trend gaining momentum in Ireland is the use of seasonal touches that celebrate the country’s rich heritage—autumn weddings featuring warm, earthy tones and hearty menus, or spring ceremonies bursting with wildflowers and fresh, local fare. (Much like Aimee and Shane’s autumn wedding at Adare Manor.)
Why Choose One? Combine Them!
For couples truly seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a multi-destination wedding is a rising trend. Begin with a chic civil ceremony in Lisbon, host a pre-wedding soirée in Mallorca, and conclude with a grand celebration in an Irish castle. The possibilities are as limitless as your imagination.
Each of these 2025 destination wedding location ideas offers a unique canvas for your dream day. Let’s make it extraordinary together!
Congratulations, you’re engaged! That sparkling ring marks the beginning of one of life’s most enchanting adventures: planning your wedding. For couples dreaming of a destination wedding, the excitement is amplified by the allure of saying “I do” in a faraway place. However, when you’re engaged and planning a destination wedding, you’ll soon realize it’s no small feat! That’s where I come in as your luxury wedding planner. Let me guide you through the initial steps to turn your dream into reality.
Step One: Envision Your Dream Destination
Start by imagining the location that speaks to your hearts as a couple. Is it the romance of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, the charm of a French château, or the timeless beauty of an Irish castle? Perhaps you’re dreaming of tropical shores or a secluded mountain retreat. Your chosen destination sets the tone for your wedding, so ensure it reflects your personality and love story.
Consider the logistical aspects: Is the location accessible for your guests? Does it have the infrastructure to host a wedding of your desired scale? A wedding planner like myself, with destination expertise, will provide invaluable insights into these questions, helping you make a well-informed decision.
Step Two: Create a Vision and Budget
Every luxury wedding begins with a clear vision. Do you picture an opulent celebration dripping in florals or a more intimate gathering with understated elegance? Collaborate with your planner to craft a cohesive style, incorporating elements that resonate with you—whether it’s bespoke invitations, artisan catering, or live entertainment.
Equally important is understanding that a luxury wedding is an investment, and having clarity on where to allocate resources ensures your priorities are met. Your planner will help you identify costs unique to destination weddings, such as travel logistics, accommodations, and local vendor fees.
Step Three: Build Your Guest List
Destination weddings often lend themselves to more intimate guest lists, as not everyone will be able to travel. Consider creating a “VIP” list of essential attendees. Communicate your plans early, allowing guests ample time to make arrangements. A thoughtfully crafted wedding website can be an excellent resource for sharing itineraries, travel details, and accommodations.
Step Four: Partner with a Local Expert
A luxury destination wedding requires impeccable coordination. As your wedding planner, I work with a trusted network of local vendors who understand the nuances of your chosen destination. Whether that is securing a stunning venue or navigating local marriage laws and customs, my expertise ensures a seamless experience. I also serve as your advocate, ensuring that cultural and logistical elements blend harmoniously with your vision.
Step Five: Plan an Unforgettable Experience
A destination wedding is not just a single-day event—it’s a journey for you and your guests. Consider curating a multi-day celebration. Think welcome cocktails overlooking the cliffs of Moher, a rehearsal dinner featuring regional cuisine, and post-wedding activities like guided tours or spa retreats. These moments create cherished memories for you and your loved ones.
Step Six: Trust the Process
When you’re engaged and planning a destination wedding you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed, but take heart! It’s a journey worth savouring. With the right team by your side, every detail is thoughtfully handled. From scouting venues to finalising floral arrangements, I’ll ensure that the experience is as enjoyable as the day itself.
Your engagement marks the start of an extraordinary chapter. Let’s craft a destination wedding that’s as unique and unforgettable as your love story.
When I consider romantic wedding locations, I always think of Ireland first, of course! But there are other great European destination wedding locations that are definitely worth mentioning. Below are the top European destination wedding hotspots of 2024. Let’s get into it!
Dublin, Ireland
First and foremost, the magical country of Ireland. With its castles, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, Dublin provides a unique and enchanting destination for couples seeking an Irish fairy tale wedding – but really, anywhere on this incredible island will do. Here’s a wee look: Ireland’s Top Luxury Wedding Venues.
Santorini, Greece
With its stunning sunsets and iconic white-washed buildings overlooking the crystal-clear waters, Santorini continues to be a dream destination for couples seeking a romantic Mediterranean backdrop for their special day.
Tuscany, Italy
Picture rolling hills, charming vineyards, and historic villas – Tuscany is a timeless choice for couples who desire a rustic and picturesque wedding surrounded by the beauty of the Italian countryside.
Barcelona, Spain
The vibrant city of Barcelona offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern flair. From Gaudi’s architectural wonders to the lively atmosphere of La Rambla, it’s a perfect choice for couples wanting a cosmopolitan celebration with a touch of bohemian chic.
Porto, Portugal
Personally, I adore Portugal. Whether it’s inland or the coast, I go into more detail about my Top 5 Favourite Portugal Wedding Venues here. Porto, with its colorful buildings, historic bridges, and the Douro River, provides a romantic setting for couples seeking a blend of old-world charm and modern romance.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Steep cliffs, lemon groves, and the azure sea make the Amalfi Coast an enchanting location for couples in search of a romantic seaside celebration. Whether in Positano, Ravello, or Amalfi itself, the backdrop is always breathtaking.
Prague, Czech Republic
The historic charm of Prague’s cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and the iconic Charles Bridge create a fairytale setting for couples looking to exchange vows in a storybook atmosphere.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik boasts medieval charm, historic city walls, and breathtaking coastal views. It’s a destination that combines rich history with a touch of magic for couples seeking a truly unique setting.
French Riviera, France
From Cannes to Nice, the French Riviera exudes sophistication and glamour. Couples can choose from luxurious beachside venues or historic chateaus, offering a perfect blend of opulence and Mediterranean allure.
Reykjavik, Iceland
For the adventurous couple, Reykjavik offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Imagine exchanging vows under the dancing Northern Lights, surrounded by Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes – a true spectacle for a destination wedding.
Keep all these European destination hotspots in mind when you’re brainstorming the perfect location. Just like every couple, each of these destinations has something really special that makes them ideal. If you’re ready to make some plans, just give me a shout!
Are you considering a destination wedding to Ireland? I am absolutely thrilled that you are here! It is no secret that I believe Ireland is the most beautiful and magical place to say “I Do”. In fact, deciding on a wedding venue can be one of the hardest parts because there are so many gorgeous venues to choose from. Ireland is known for its picturesque landscapes and romantic settings, making it a popular destination for weddings. But there are some that stand out amongst the others. Here are the Top Places to Wed in Ireland in 2024:
Ashford Castle (Cong, County Mayo)
A stunning castle set on the shores of Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle offers a fairytale setting for a wedding. With its gorgeous acres of manicured gardens, lush forests and lively woodland, there is magic floating on the breeze and over the sparking waters of Lough Corrib. Additionally, working with the team of professionals at Ashford Castle is truly a rewarding experience in itself. It is nearly impossible to run out of things to do or options for entertainment. A wedding at Ashford Castle can be customized to fit the personalities of every couple that decides to say their ‘I Do’s’ at this enchanted place.
My other favorite detail? The accommodations at Ashford Castle are beyond compare. Each of the 83 rooms have been lovingly designed and individually restored, whilst taking every effort to incorporate the latest modern luxuries. The unique works of art and antique furniture are carefully and meticulously curated. Every one of the team’s efforts comes to fruition as you and your guests take in the sumptuous fabrics, custom-designed carpets, exquisite toweling, feature lighting and drift off to dreamland on bespoke beds wrapped in Egyptian Cotton bed linens.
A five-star hotel set on a vast estate, Adare Manor is known for its opulent architecture and elegant surroundings. The manicured gardens and the grandeur of the Manor provide a luxurious backdrop for a wedding.
An Adare Manor wedding is always one to be savoured, whether it’s small and intimate or a grand affair. It has a unique ambience, a mix of old-world glamour and modern technology and comfort, suffused with warmth and good old-fashioned Irish hospitality, that makes it one of my personal favourite Irish destination wedding venues. It’s what is known as a Gothic revival calendar house, so named because it has 365 leaded windows, 52 chimneys, seven stone pillars, and four towers, which mark the days, weeks, and seasons of the year. The award-winning hotel also includes a championship golf course (set to host the Ryder Cup in 2027) and a Michelin-starred restaurant. In 2018, it was named Hotel of the Year at the Virtuoso Best of the Best Awards ahead of properties like the famed Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat in France and the Berkeley in London.
But really, what makes Adare so unique is not only the setting, but the people. They have a motto they use, ‘Beyond Everything’, and that is really what they do. They go above and beyond for every single guest and every single wedding. For example, there’s Philip, the wedding butler and one of my favourite people at Adare. He becomes so involved with the wedding couple that when they say goodbye it’s a little like parting from a member of the family. Another example is Mary, part of the Adare Food and Beverage team. She gets to know every member of both families, what they would like to eat and drink, and where they need to be and when. It really is an extraordinary level of service, which reflects my philosophy as a wedding planner. It’s this kind of personal attention that makes guests feel truly pampered and turns an Adare Manor wedding from an event into an experience.
When I speak to couples who imagine their wedding in an an intimate and opulent setting, surrounded by rich history and literary legends, I tell them the Museum of Literature Ireland (also known as the MoLI) is the venue for them. Couples who appreciate this city’s love of literature know that MoLI is the perfect wedding setting. Just traverse through Dublin and you’ll find a myriad of bookshops, historic libraries, literary plaques and statues. Some of the world’s most famous writers called Dublin home.
A relatively new addition to the cultural scene in downtown Dublin, it is a dedicated museum that celebrates the rich literary heritage of Ireland and its literary luminaries. MoLI is a partnership between University College Dublin and the National Library of Ireland. Inside the hidden historic rooms of the MoLI, you will find yourself encompassed by Georgian lavishness and you and your guests will join the ranks of all the fascinating characters that have passed through over the centuries.
Couples who choose the Museum of Literature Ireland have access to the gardens outside, including the beautiful Iveagh Gardens, which were originally owned by the Guinness family. The Iveagh house is located just a few doors down from the MoLI. Intimate weddings at MoLI are a joy to plan. It is stylish and elegant and offers opportunities for celebration both inside and out. I relish creating an atmosphere of exclusivity for you and your cherished friends and family to focus on the moment at hand.
Dromoland Castle (Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare)
Another castle setting, Dromoland Castle, offers a historic and romantic atmosphere. The castle is surrounded by lush greenery and a beautiful lake, creating a magical setting for a wedding.
Originally the seat of the descendants of one of the last High Kings of Ireland, Dromoland Castle is now an amazing luxury hotel that has welcomed celebrities and dignitaries from Bono to Nelson Mandela. Magnificent scenery, sumptuous interiors, a championship golf course, and elegant French-inspired fine dining add to the unforgettable experience. The venue is also incredibly versatile, offering a wide range of ceremony and reception spaces of different sizes, from a charming walled garden to the magnificent Brian Boru Hall.
As soon as you step through the elegant Georgian doors of the Merrion Hotel in Dublin, you’re immediately transported into a world of luxury and charm, wrapped in a warm Irish welcome. This place embodies grace, romance, and hospitality – making it an unrivaled destination wedding venue in the heart of Ireland.
The Merrion Hotel takes its distinctive character from 18th-century townhouses, which once belonged to influential Irish figures — boasting 123 guest rooms and 19 suites, a two-star Michelin restaurant, a luxurious spa, and meticulously manicured private gardens. The hotel exemplifies grandeur, splendor, and comfort – everything you might wish for your wedding day.
You cannot go wrong with a Merrion Hotel wedding; it is undoubtedly a testament to Ireland’s rich history, elegantly situated within four meticulously restored Georgian townhouses in Dublin. These 18th-century townhouses, once the homes of notable figures such as Viscount Monck and Garret Wesley, were designed by famed Irish architect Richard Cassels. Over the years, they have witnessed significant events in Irish history, such as the birth of Arthur Wellesley, the future Duke of Wellington. The hotel’s name, ‘Merrion’, comes from the title ‘Viscount Merrion’, granted to Sir Charles Monck in 1760. Today, the hotel blends its historic grandeur with modern luxury, offering a unique retreat that is deeply rooted in the city’s architectural and social history. It serves as a beautiful reminder of Dublin’s Georgian heritage while providing world-class services to its guests.
I’m always delighted when my clients choose Ballyfin Demesne for their destination weddings in Ireland, as it truly is a special place. Built in 1820, the neo-classical Regency mansion (and later, boys’ school) underwent an extensive renovation in the early 2000s, finally reopening as a luxurious five-star country hotel in 2011. Since then, it has received multiple prestigious accolades, including being voted the best hotel in the world by Conde Nast Traveler and receiving the AA’s Hotel of the Year Award in 2018. If you want something very unique and private, then this is the place for you.
What makes Ballyfin wedding venue so special is that visiting it is like walking back in time. Think of it as a Downton Abbey house party of your very own. On arrival, the staff line up to greet you, just as if you were the lords and ladies of the manor returning to your country pile. And that’s just the start of the old-world charm and traditional Irish hospitality you can expect during your stay. The butlers all have a personal connection to the property, so they are part of the family there, and everyone has a story to tell.
Although Ballyfin is described as a country house venue, I think of it more as a little bit of paradise in the middle of Ireland. On a clear night, it’s easy to imagine what the world was like 200 years ago. With very little light pollution, the countryside is so still and serene that it feels like you’re the only people for miles around. And it’s so private that once you enter you really feel like you have arrived home. I’m delighted to have such a strong relationship with the wonderful team there, and to be able to recommend it to my clients knowing that they’ll love it as much as I do.
A country estate with a Georgian mansion, Mount Juliet offers a blend of luxury and natural beauty. The estate includes a golf course, gardens, and a river, providing various picturesque backdrops.
To describe a bit more about why I suggested Mount Juliet, it is nestled within the verdant Irish countryside, it is a breathtaking wedding venue that offers an idyllic setting at a majestic Georgian Manor house, set on a sprawling 500-acre estate. The bride described to me that she had always dreamt of a winter wedding and this venue seamlessly blends historic elegance with modern luxury, providing an enchanting backdrop for the ultimate fairy-tale winter wedding. Surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, ancient woodlands, and the tranquil River Nore, Mount Juliet is the epitome of romance and charm.
These are some of my favourites and what I would consider the top places to wed in Ireland in 2024. There are so many, so reach out! We can talk about even more Incredible Wedding Locations in Ireland. Remember to consider the capacity, check reviews and testimonials, and visit the location, if possible. You should always discuss your specific needs with your wedding planner as they should be the expert in whatever venue you choose. Once you’ve decided on a location, you can move on to the next best part: First Steps to Planning a Destination Wedding.
