How To Elope in Iceland: A Guide For Adventurous Couples

 

Are you planning to elope in Iceland? Cue the happy dance because you’re about to make the best freaking decision ever. Imagine saying your vows next to a roaring waterfall, on a jet-black sand beach, or atop a moss-covered cliff with the wind in your hair and your love by your side. This country was made for couples who want an adventurous, wildly romantic, and completely unforgettable wedding day.

Iceland is so much more than just a gorgeous backdrop. This is the kind of place that begs you to slow down, explore, and soak in every single moment. Your elopement should be more than just a ceremony—it should be an experience! A whole trip filled with these beautiful landscapes, spontaneous adventures, and memories that make you want to relive it over and over again.

That’s where this guide comes in! I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about eloping in Iceland.

Why Elope in Iceland

Iceland is hands down one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. It’s got volcanoes, glaciers, highlands that look like another planet, and beaches that are black as night. Every turn in the road feels like stepping into a fantasy novel (Tolkien would approve).

Plus, Iceland is one of the easiest places in the world to elope. You can go from a cozy cabin in the morning to a glacier by the afternoon without breaking too much sweat. It’s the perfect blend of epic and accessible, which means you get all the views without needing to be a hardcore hiker.

Getting to Iceland

Getting to Iceland from the U.S. is super easy. The main airport, Keflavík International Airport (KEF), is about 45 minutes from Reykjavik, and there are tons of direct flights from major cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, Denver, and even Orlando!

Once you land, you can rent a car right from the airport if you’re planning to explore (which I definitely recommend), or you can take a shuttle into Reykjavik if you’re staying local.

One of my absolute favorite locations in Iceland is Vik, so if you’re planning to visit, you will want to rent a car from the airport and drive through the beautiful countryside of Iceland, taking Route 1 the entire way.

Best Iceland Elopement Locations

Iceland has such a variety of epic backdrops for your elopement day and overall trip. There’s the Highlands—wild, untouched landscapes with rolling green mountains, colorful rhyolite hills, and steaming geothermal hot spots. Then there are waterfalls, and Iceland seriously has so many!

Iceland is literally built on fire and ice, so if you want something really unique, why not elope near a volcano or next to glaciers? Iceland has massive glaciers like Vatnajökull and Sólheimajökull, where you can actually hike across the ice or even explore inside blue ice caves in winter.

And what’s more, you can get married anywhere on public lands and don’t need a permit to do so!

Vik

The small coastal town of Vik is home to some of Iceland’s most famous landscapes. Surrounded by towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations, Vik offers an ethereal, almost otherworldly atmosphere. One of the highlights here is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, a breathtakingly beautiful stretch of coastline with jet-black sand, enormous basalt columns, and powerful waves crashing against the shore. Vik really is a top-tier choice for an adventurous, moody elopement backdrop.

Skógafoss

One of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, Skógafoss is an absolute showstopper. The sheer power of Skogafoss is breathtaking, and if you don’t mind getting a little misted, you can stand right in front of it for an awe-inspiring backdrop for your photos. Bonus: climb the stairs to the top for an epic panoramic view, but be aware this spot will likely be super packed with people.

Take a look at this Iceland elopement where we visited both Skogafoss and Reynisfjara beach.

Kvernufoss

A lesser-known neighbor of Skogafoss, this hidden waterfall is nestled in a mossy canyon, giving it a private, secret garden feel. And what’s super cool, is that you can actually walk behind the waterfall as well!

Glacier Lagoon

Also known as Jökulsárlón, this lagoon is like something out of an Arctic fairytale. Icebergs in shades of blue and white float silently through the lagoon, reflecting in the still water. The Vatnajokull Glacier in the background creates an otherworldly atmosphere, making it a top choice for a unique elopement location. I can also help you find lesser-known areas with glacier views (and fewer crowds)!

Take a look at this Glacier Lagoon elopement for inspiration!

bride and groom stand in front of the glacier lagoon in Iceland

Diamond Beach

This beach is covered in chunks of ice that wash up from the glacier lagoon, making it look like a sea of diamonds. The contrast between the sparkling ice and black volcanic sand is absolutely unreal. It is such a stunning spot for your elopement ceremony!

The Highlands

Iceland Highlands are endless rolling mountains painted in shades of green, orange, and brown, steaming geothermal valleys and rivers carving their way through ancient rock. Imagine renting a Jeep or a classic Land Rover for the ultimate adventure! For the adventurous couple, the rugged highlands offer thrilling off-roading experiences, including fording through river streams. If this sounds like your type of adventure, know that this is only available during Icelandic summer, and the roads are closed the rest of the year.

If you want to see how your Highlands elopement could look, check out this blog!

how to elope in Iceland

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir is where you can literally stand between two continents, and it’s also an off-roading paradise! The highlands offer rugged, otherworldly landscapes that you can only access in the summer with a 4×4 vehicle

The park sits in a rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, creating a dramatic landscape of moss-covered lava fields, deep fissures filled with crystal-clear glacial water, and stunning cliffs. If you’re dreaming of an otherworldly, history-rich setting for your vows, this is the place.

Mulagljufur Canyon

If you’re looking for an epic, jaw-dropping landscape, this canyon is one of the most underrated spots in Iceland. The hike to the viewpoint is relatively easy, and the views are worth every step. Towering cliffs, winding rivers, and distant glaciers all combine to make this a ridiculously beautiful elopement location.

Downtown Reykjavik

For a unique urban elopement, Reykjavik offers colorful buildings, charming streets, and a vibrant, artsy atmosphere. It’s the perfect mix of old-world Nordic charm and modern adventure, and after your ceremony, you can celebrate with some of the best food, drinks, and live music Iceland has to offer.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

This is one of the most famous beaches in Iceland. It’s known for its inky black sand, towering basalt columns, and fierce, roaring waves. If you want a dark and moody vibe, this is it.

I do not recommend planning your ceremony there. Loads of people visit every day, and even when the tide is low and you have access to more of the beach, there are visitors everywhere and basically no privacy. But it really makes for great photos.

Secret Waterfalls

Believe it or not there are waterfalls that are amazingly beautiful, easy to access, AND way less trafficked than some of the more well-known locations. I’ve scouted some out and am happy to help my clients find these amazing falls for a much more private experience.

how to elope in Iceland

Best Time to Elope in Iceland

Summer in Iceland, from June to August, offers nearly 24 hours of daylight, warmer temperatures, and access to the stunning highland roads that are otherwise off-limits during colder months. The long golden hours and midnight sun give you plenty of time for a dreamy ceremony and celebration. With the longer days we can even be out in the middle of the “night” with plenty of light for photos AND fewer tourists.

Winter, spanning from November to March, transforms Iceland into a snow-covered wonderland. If you’ve ever dreamed of a fairytale elopement with icy waterfalls, snow-draped landscapes, and the chance to see the Northern Lights dancing overhead, this is your season.

Spring and Fall will bring cooler temperatures but with the possibility of fewer people than summer. Spring has a slightly higher chance of storms, but Fall is perfect if you’re hunting for the aurora borealis and don’t mind cooler temperatures. You may also enjoy slightly more budget-friendly travel.

Fun Iceland Elopement Activities to Add to Your Trip

I am a big believer that your elopement day is about so much more than just getting married! It’s about celebrating love in a way that feels uniquely you. Think about the little moments that make your relationship special, and weave them into your day or a cool adventure you could do at your chosen elopement location! Here are some ideas:

  • Hiking
  • Go camping
  • Have a scenic picnic
  • Write your vows together
  • Off-roading in the highlands
  • Searching for wild hot springs
  • Visit Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon
  • Explore Ice Caves
  • Take a boat tour through Glacier Lagoon
  • Try Icelandic food
  • See the Aurora Borealis
  • Ride Icelandic ponies
  • Search for puffins
  • Soak in a hot tub at the Airbnb at the end of the night

… the options truly are endless!

How to Get Legally Married in Iceland

The easiest way to elope in Iceland is to make everything official back home before traveling to Iceland. Then you can have a symbolic elopement ceremony and exchange vows together once you get here!

 

Where to Stay in Iceland

The right Airbnb, lodge, or cabin can make all the difference, giving you a cozy home base to soak in every magical moment without spending hours in the car. Staying close to your elopement location means more time enjoying the actual day and less time commuting.

If you don’t want to be tied to the same place every night, you could rent a camper van. Camper vans give you the flexibility to end the night wherever you want, so you don’t have to worry about wandering too far from base camp. If you choose the camper van option, a road trip would be so fun! Iceland’s Ring Road loops around the entire country, taking you through some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes, while the Golden Circle offers a shorter but still insanely beautiful route.

That being said, these are some of my recs for the best places to stay in Iceland:

Example Iceland Elopement Timeline

  • 9a Meet at Airbnb/hotel

    Brunch & coffee together

  • 11a Get ready and do a first look

  • 124p Leave for Glacier Lagoon, portraits at Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

  • 4-7p Head to Canyon Trailhead

    Exchange vows at Canyon Waterfall

    Stop for a picnic celebration

  • 9-11p. Head back to Airbnb for dinner and a hot tub. Pop the bubbly and relax!

 

 

How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Iceland

Your Iceland elopement budget depends on what kind of experience you want and when you plan to travel. It can get extra expensive during the peak summer season. Here’s a very rough breakdown:

  • Flights: $500–$1,500 per person (depending on the season and departure city)
  • Car Rental: $80–$150 per day (get a 4×4 if you’re heading into the highlands!)
  • Accommodation: $100–$600 per night (luxury lodges vs. guesthouses vs. camping)
  • Photography: $4,000–$8,000+
  • Other Costs: Gas, food (Iceland is pricey), activities, and gear rentals

Final Iceland Travel Tips

There are a few more things to keep in mind when you travel to Iceland!

  • I really recommend renting a car (preferably even a 4×4 if you’re heading off the beaten path). Iceland is best explored on your own terms, and renting a car is the way to do it. The main highway (Route 1, aka the Ring Road) is easy to navigate, but if you’re planning to explore the Highlands or some more rugged areas, you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle. Some roads (called F-roads) are only accessible in summer and require off-road-capable cars, so check your route before you go.
  • Pretty much everyone speaks English, and Icelanders are super friendly and helpful. That being said, learning a couple of Icelandic words is always a nice touch.
  • Iceland is not a budget-friendly destination. Food, gas, and accommodations can all add up quickly. You can save money by going to grocery stores for snacks and easy meals, and bring a reusable water bottle. Icelandic water is some of the best in the world.
  • Remember to always Leave No Trace. Stick to marked trails, don’t step on the delicate moss and always pack out whatever you bring in. Respect the land, and it’ll stay magical for everyone who visits after you!
  • If you’re after the Northern Lights, you’ll need to plan your elopement for late fall, winter, or early spring (September–March). And for the best odds to see them, you will need to get away from the city lights, check the aurora forecast, and cross your fingers for clear skies.

 

how to elope in Iceland

Iceland Elopement Packages

I hope this guide starts you on the right foot and cleared up any questions about how to elope in Iceland!

Hey! I’m Jessica, your Iceland elopement photographer. Iceland first captured my heart during a long layover on my way to Europe, and I’ve gone back every summer since. I would love to help you plan your own Iceland elopement and take some epic photos in this gorgeous country!

My Iceland elopement packages are designed to take all the stress off your plate so you can focus on what really matters—having an amazing experience with your favorite person. Every package includes my travel, personalized location recommendations, and a custom timeline to ensure you can go on that epic hike AND catch that perfect sunset for your vow exchange. You’ll also get a full elopement guide packed with everything you need to know, from permits and logistics to the best places to stay, eat, and explore.

Ready to start planning? Reach out to me, and let’s dream up your perfect day!

 

August 31, 2023

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When I'm not behind the camera, I love spending time with my dog hiking the beautiful Florida trails, out on my paddle board in our local springs, or spending quality time with my husband exploring local events. When it's been too long since my last beach day, I have cravings for that perfect mix of saltwater and ocean air. 

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