Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by glaciers, volcanic landscapes, a black sand beach, or dramatic waterfalls—all of that is possible during your Iceland elopement! Iceland’s scenery is incredibly diverse, allowing you to design an elopement day that is as unique as your love story. 

As an Iceland elopement photographer, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing some incredible love stories unfold in this breathtaking landscape. From hidden waterfalls to glacier lagoons, I’ve explored every corner to help couples find the perfect spot that speaks to them. Iceland’s wild, untamed beauty and variety of locations offer something for every couple. 

What I love about Iceland is how the landscape makes you feel so alive—puffins, volcanoes, hot springs, and the sheer vastness of the place. You’ll be standing between tectonic plates, crossing rivers, and soaking in natural hot springs without worry. There are no poisonous bugs or predators! This is your day, your way, in one of the most stunning places on Earth!

With this ultimate Iceland elopement guide, I’m here to help you navigate every step so you can focus on enjoying the adventure of a lifetime.

Table of Contents

• Why Elope in Iceland
• How to Plan Your Iceland Elopement
• Getting Oriented 
• Choosing Your Iceland Elopement Location
• How to Get Legally Married in Iceland
• Where to Stay
• When to Elope in Iceland
• Iceland Elopement Activities
• Where to Eat in Iceland
• Final Iceland Travel Tips
• Iceland Elopement Packages

Why Elope in Iceland?

There’s nothing quite like it. Iceland offers a completely unique and personal experience that’s a true break from the conventional. Imagine getting married your way—whether that’s in an ice cave, a lava tunnel, under a waterfall, aboard a sailboat, on top of a glacier, on a beach filled with icebergs, or even under the Northern Lights! Iceland is one of those places where anything feels possible. Your passion for life and nature is on fire. All of your senses are peaked.

Even the weather keeps you on your toes, but that’s part of the adventure. There’s something so special about Iceland that it’s hard to put into words. It connects you to something bigger, something almost magical. Life feels larger than we can imagine when you’re standing in a place like this. You’ll feel wild, free, and completely in the moment—exactly how an elopement should feel. Plus, Iceland is super friendly and welcoming to all lovers, which makes it an ideal spot to start your forever.

How to Plan Your Iceland Elopement?

There are countless things to see, climates to experience, and adventures to go on. There is a reason people love coming back time and time again. Begin by deciding how you want to feel on your day? Do you want to hike, drive on bumpy roads for 4 hours to reach epic quiet locations, or would you rather visit several picturesque places close together and end with soaking it all up under the northern lights? Once you know the level of adventure you want to go on, start imagining what amenities you may want and the type of place you want to stay?

This Iceland elopement guide will be breaking down all of this for you to help you plan the perfect day and romantic getaway!

Getting Oriented

Whether you’ve already fallen in love with Iceland or this is your first time visiting, you’ll quickly realize there’s just too much to see and do in one trip. Iceland offers endless adventures, from iconic waterfalls and glaciers to remote, untouched wilderness. This is why choosing a base or hub is essential for making the most of your time while planning your elopement.

First, decide which region of Iceland speaks to you. Staying in a central location gives you easy access to the specific sites you want to explore, making your elopement day stress-free and leaving room for spontaneous adventures. If you aren’t staying in a camper van to move around freely, choosing a great hotel or Airbnb will be a great alternative.

Depending on what you want to see, a full-day elopement allows for visits to one or two major locations—or several stops along the way to a grand finale spot. You’ll probably be taking The Ring Road (Route 1), which is Iceland’s main road, circling the island and connecting most towns and villages.

Here’s a brief breakdown of Iceland’s regions you can get to via the Ring Road and some highlights to help guide your decision:

• North Iceland: Remote and breathtaking, North Iceland is home to the Diamond Circle, a scenic route featuring spots like Dettifoss (Europe’s most powerful waterfall) and the charming town of Húsavík. This region offers dramatic landscapes with fewer crowds, making it perfect for a more intimate elopement. You can explore more here: Must-see places in North Iceland

• West Iceland: Starting from Reykjavik and Keflavik International Airport, the west is the gateway to places like Grindavik, home of the Blue Lagoon, and the Golden Circle. While the Golden Circle is quite touristy, it offers iconic spots like Geysir and Gullfoss, ideal for exploration before or after your elopement.

• South and Southwest Iceland: The south is a popular choice, featuring easy-to-access yet breathtaking spots like Vik, Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. If you’re seeking dramatic landscapes with minimal travel, Selfoss, Hella, and Vik are fantastic bases for getting the best of Iceland’s south coast.

• East Iceland: This lesser-visited region is home to fjords, small fishing villages, and stunning coastal scenery. Eskifjörður is a gem worth exploring if you’re looking for a more peaceful and remote elopement experience.

• South-East Iceland: Perfect for glacier lovers! Stay in Hofn to explore nearby glaciers like Vatnajökull and take in the beauty of Jökulsárlón. This is also a convenient spot if you want to quickly return to Reykjavik via a domestic flight.

Once you’ve decided on your hub or region, your elopement day starts to take shape! The next step is mapping out specific elopement locations, which I’ll get into next!

Choosing Your Iceland Elopement Location

When it comes to eloping in Iceland, you’re spoiled for choice. This country is packed with so many incredible places that it can feel like planning a vacation and a wedding all in one. And honestly, that’s kind of the beauty of it! Your elopement is just one part of a wider adventure, and I’m here to help you figure out which locations inspire you the most.

Some spots are more popular with tourists, so depending on your vibe, we can find ways to avoid crowds by visiting early in the morning or late in the evening—or planning your day during the off-season. The goal is to make sure your elopement feels personal, intimate, and aligned with the kind of experience you’re after. 

Waterfalls

Check out this map to see all the locations!

There are waterfalls literally everywhere in Iceland, and each one is more stunning than the last. You’ll find famous, easily accessible spots and also some hidden gems!

• Oxararfoss: It is located on the Golden Circle and falls between the two tectonic plates.  It’s a wild experience taking the short walk from the parking lot and entering the area between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.  It’s the only place in the world where you can do this!

• Bruarfoss: Also located on the Golden Circle, it is known for being the bluest waterfall in Iceland. It does get crowded, but it’s well worth the visit if you’re up for a jaw-dropping view.

• Haifoss: One of the lesser-visited falls in the south of Iceland, Haifoss requires a 4×4 and a bit of a hike, but you’ll be rewarded with privacy and one of the tallest waterfalls in Europe.

• Kvernufoss: This hidden gem is just a half-mile hike from the famous Skógafoss, but it’s much less known and offers a magical atmosphere. The real charm of Kvernufoss? You can walk behind it, giving you a unique and intimate spot for your ceremony. The hike-in is short, but you’ll feel like you’ve discovered a secret world.

• Dettifoss: The most powerful waterfall in all of Europe. Located in the north, this beast of a waterfall is both remote and magnificent.

• Seljalandsfoss & Skogafoss: These two southern Iceland waterfalls are probably the most famous and visited—and for good reason. They’re stunning, easily accessible, and perfect for those classic Iceland elopement photos where you’re standing right in front of the roaring falls.

Glaciers, Ice Caves & Glacier Lagoons

With over 10% of Iceland covered in glaciers, there are epic glacier hikes to go on and stunning ice caves to explore! These are some options for you:

• Vatnajökull & Sólheimajökull: These massive glaciers are perfect for couples looking to add adventure to their day. You can hike on them, explore ice caves in the winter, or even snowmobile across the vast icy expanses. Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Europe, while Sólheimajökull is more accessible but equally stunning.

• Langjokull: Iceland’s second-largest glacier offers everything from snowmobiling tours to guided ice cave explorations. It’s best to visit in winter, but it is accessible year-round. Just imagine a snowmobile tour here after your ceremony? Just amazing!

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: This is one of Iceland’s most famous and breathtaking spots. The lagoon is filled with floating icebergs that slowly drift out to sea, and nearby is Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice wash ashore on the black sand like scattered jewels. You could take a boat ride among the icebergs or simply soak in the surreal views. Either way, this place is absolutely magical for a ceremony.

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a great route to travel all year round, and especially if you’re planning to be in Iceland for a shorter period of time. This is an all day 10-12 hour experience driving and stopping to look at all the natural wonders. Google maps is awesome for planning out your trip in advance!

After landing in Iceland and enjoying the town of Reykjavik for a few days, I recommend spending a day touring all of these iconic spots by car. You can take a guided tour, but it is pretty cool touring around yourself. On the Golden Circle route, you’ll be able to find:

• Thingvellir National Park: Not only is this a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it’s also where Iceland’s first parliament was held. The park’s stunning landscapes make it perfect for exploring, and you can even snorkel or dive between the tectonic plates at Silfra Fissure.

• Strokkur Geyser: This geyser erupts every few minutes, sending water up to 30 meters in the air. Super cool!

• Kerid Crater: This volcanic crater lake is known for its vibrant red rock and striking blue water, creating a dramatic contrast that’s perfect for photos. The hike around the rim offers the most incredible views!

Pro Tip: Lookout for the paid parking signs in each lot and make sure you get this app to help you navigate and pay for parking, as a lot of them require payment within 24 hours of your visit.

The Highlands

If you’re looking for a real elopement adventure, the Highlands offer vast, rugged landscapes that you can only access during summer (June-September). To reach the Highlands, you’ll need a 4×4 to navigate the gravel F-roads and river crossings. Check out ISAK for rentals. They have you covered!

• Landmannalaugar: This area is famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and epic hiking trails! 

• Thórsmörk: One of the most popular hiking destinations, it is a lush valley surrounded by glaciers and volcanic mountains. It’s more remote than some other locations, so here, you’re more likely to get an intimate, quiet elopement experience.

• Laugavegur: Another one of the most popular hiking destinations in Iceland and can be found between the other two Highland locations. The trail is very scenic as you go alongside mountains, hot springs, lakes and a black sand desert! It really is gorgeous!

National Parks

Iceland is home to three massive national parks, each offering its own unique experience. They contain glaciers, volcanoes, lava fields, glacial lakes, and more. Thingvellir National Park is generally included as a stop on a tour of the famous Golden Circle, as I mentioned earlier. Here’s more about the other two national parks:

• Snæfellsjökull National Park: Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this park is famous for its glacier-capped volcano, lava fields, and dramatic coastal cliffs. It’s like a microcosm of all the beauty Iceland has to offer. You’ll get a little bit of everything here, from volcanic craters to beaches, making it an incredible spot for an elopement.

• Vatnajökull National Park: Home to the largest glacier in Europe, this park covers around 14% of Iceland. This is the place to be if you want to visit glaciers and ice caves for your elopement!

The Westman Islands

The Westman Islands, located below Iceland’s mainland, is a hotspot for Puffin colonies. Up to ten million Puffins call Iceland their home every summer, and many of them prefer the Westman Islands. I recommend taking a ferry to the main island, Heimaey, for an unbelievable Puffin tour! Overall, you will need to take a ferry to access the islands.

This is a wonderful location for a day visit or you can also stay the night to really take in the area. Just make sure to schedule your visit in advance! Here are some more ideas of what to do on the Westman Islands!

Hot Springs

Hot Springs are embedded into the Icelandic culture. They are great for relaxing, but they are also well known for their healing properties! A good soak can boost your blood circulation, reduce pains and stress, and detoxify you naturally. In Iceland you can find fancy spa like hot springs, and also more rural warm waters you need to hike to, whatever you prefer. They are everywhere!

If you’re looking for spa like amenities, with bars, rituals and overnight stay, you could check out:

• Sky Lagoon (my personal favorite by far)
• Blue Lagoon
• Secret Lagoon (just make sure to make reservations in advance, because it actually isn’t that secret)
• Hvammsvik Hot Springs
• Vök Baths (Iceland’s only floating infinity pools!)

And if you’re looking for hot springs you’d need to hike to, here are a couple of my favorites:

• Seljavallalaug: It’s about a half a mile hike in, and it’s surrounded by lush green mountains and a flowing river. There’s also not too many people around!

• Reykjadalur: It’s a bit of a longer hike, being 3.7 miles round trip, but the scenery is unsurprisingly amazing, and the soak will be very rewarding!

Black Sand Beaches

Iceland’s black sand beaches are iconic, offering dramatic, moody landscapes that are perfect for an adventure elopement. These are my top 3 favorite black sand beaches:

• Reynisfjara Beach: With its towering basalt columns and roaring waves, Reynisfjara is one of Iceland’s most famous beaches. It is so beautiful here, but you’ll need to watch out for sneaker waves—they’re powerful and very dangerous, so follow all the safety regulations!

• Diamond Beach: Right next to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach is covered in chunks of ice that sparkle like diamonds on the black sand. It’s a magical spot for photos and a peaceful place to soak in Iceland’s beauty.

• Stokksnes: Known for its black sands and views of Vestrahorn Mountain, Stokksnes is maybe the second most famous beach in Iceland. The combination of the black sand, grassy dunes, and dramatic mountain backdrop makes it one of the most picturesque spots I’ve been to! Fun fact, it is also home to the Viking village film set!

How to Get Legally Married in Iceland

Can Foreigners Get Married in Iceland?

Yes, foreigners can absolutely get married in Iceland. Many couples come here for their dream destination elopement. And Iceland is also super inclusive and LGBTQIA+ friendly!

And while you can get married in Iceland, the process can be a bit complicated. You may feel a bit more at ease getting legally married at home, and having a symbolic elopement here. Whatever you choose is best for you!

Getting Your Marriage License

To get legally married in Iceland, you’ll need to apply for a marriage license. There are a few documents you need to collect:

• You’ll need to fill out and submit a marriage notification. 
• Alongside the notification, you’ll need to provide documents like:
  • Birth Certificates
  • Passports
  • Certificate of marital status that may not be older than 12 weeks when submitted.
  • If either of you has been married before, you’ll need proof of divorce or the death certificate of a former spouse.
• All documents must be submitted to the National Registry of Iceland at least three weeks before your wedding day.

You can find a more detailed information island.is website.

Do You Need an Officiant and Witness in Iceland?

Yes, you’ll need both an officiant and two witnesses for your marriage to be legally recognized. The officiant can be a civil authority (such as a district commissioner) or a religious figure if you prefer a more traditional ceremony. 

Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Iceland?

Nope! Permits are not required in Iceland!

Where to Stay in Iceland

Being in Iceland is already a super unique experience, however, you can make your elopement getaway here an even more unique experience by staying in these absolutely epic places! 

Airbnbs

• Panorama Glass Lodge: Imagine watching the Northern Lights dance across the sky from your glass lodge. This dreamy accommodation offers floor-to-ceiling views of Iceland’s stunning landscapes, perfect for couples who want to fall asleep and wake up to something truly epic.

• Iceland Lakeview Retreat: A cute, cozy luxurious airbnb surrounded by Iceland’s landscapes right in the middle of the Golden Circle. The place also has a heated outdoor pool!

• Aurora Arktika: If you’re looking for something completely different, how about staying aboard a sailboat? The Aurora Arktika offers an adventurous and unique way to explore Iceland’s stunning fjords, giving you both a place to stay and a chance to experience the coastline from the water.

• Torfhús Retreat: Another great place to stay in the heart of the Golden Circle. It was build in an authentic Icelandic style and is also very eco friendly. Here you get stunning views, and also a  basalt stone hot pool!

• Reykjavik Domes: These part-glass, part-tent domes come with a private jacuzzi and fireplace, making it a luxurious glamping-like stay. 

• The Bubble Hotel: This is an amazing place for catching the Northern Lights! You stay in a cozy, transparent bubble and have 360-views of the surrounding nature!

• Fjallsarlon: Located right next to a glacial lagoon, this secluded retreat offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Especially as you lightly float on the waters!

• Airbnb Near Seljalandsfoss: These are cozy cottages just 1.2 miles away from Seljalandsfoss, but just the surrounding nature is also so beautiful!

Hotels

• Highland Base: A new luxurious hotel in Iceland, surrounded by wild nature.They also have super unique underground passageways that connect the hotel with the restaurant and the Highland Baths! 

• Hotel Rangá: This luxury hotel is well-known for being a great spot to see the Northern Lights. It’s a secluded hotel with log-cabin vibes, but still an easy drive away from some of Iceland’s must-see attractions.

• Deplar Farm: Another gorgeous place being surrounded by the rugged landscapes! The best parts of this stay is the sensory deprivation pod in the spa, locally sourced meals, and an indoor swimming pool.

• Blue Lagoon Retreat: If you’re dreaming of a luxury spa stay, this is where you want to be. You can relax in the private lagoon, stay in a suite that offers direct access to the geothermal waters, and enjoy the rejuvenating mineral-rich waters.

• Northern Lights Hotel: This hotel is designed with aurora chasers in mind! Not only can you get a wake-up call from the front desk when the lights appear, but the hotel’s location also offers a fantastic chance to see the Northern Lights in all their glory.

• Umi Hotel: It is located only 2 km of the Ring Road by one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Iceland. Here you’ll get beautiful views of the Westman Islands and Southern Coast Line as well!

Camping

If you’re a fan of camping, Iceland’s campsites are some of the best in the world. In summer, camping is a great way to experience Iceland’s beauty, with campsites located next to most points of interest, like, waterfalls, mountains, and glaciers. Plus, camping is often more affordable than hotels, making it a great option if you’re looking to balance out your budget. If you get their special Camping Card, you can get even more savings!

When to Elope in Iceland?

In Iceland, the weather is always part of the adventure. It’s all about going with the flow and embracing it! But I also definitely recommend having backup plans for your elopement. If you have me as your Iceland elopement photographer, I will help you plan and prepare for everything so nothing will be a surprise or add stress to your day.

Summer

Summer in Iceland is absolutely incredible. With nearly 24 hours of daylight around the Summer Solstice (June 21st), it’s the only time you can visit the Highlands—one of the most remote and wild areas of the country. You’ll have endless daylight for exploring and hiking!

This is also the season for whale watching (April to September) and seeing puffins (May to September). And if you’re lucky enough to be there in August, you’ll witness the baby puffins take their first leap from the cliffs into the ocean—it’s seriously one of the cutest things you’ll ever see.

However, summer is also peak tourist season, so if you want a more secluded experience, we’ll plan your elopement early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds. Plus, Iceland’s weather can still be unpredictable, so even in summer, pack layers and expect sudden changes in temperature or rain.

Winter

Winter is the best time to explore the ice caves, snowmobile across glaciers, and, of course, catch the Northern Lights. There’s something so peaceful about having fewer crowds around, and Iceland’s long dark nights set the perfect stage for an epic elopement under the shimmering auroras. 

While winter can bring its challenges—like limited daylight and icy roads—it’s also when you’ll find Iceland at its most serene. Imagine saying your vows inside an ice cave or surrounded by a blanket of snow, with hardly anyone around. I’ll help you plan around the limited light so you can still experience everything Iceland has to offer without feeling rushed.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a mix of both worlds—fewer tourists, a chance at the Northern Lights, and still some daylight—consider eloping in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). You’ll have more flexibility with weather and locations, and Iceland is stunning year-round.

Iceland Elopement Activities

An elopement day is not about how much time you spend in front of the camera. It’s about the full-day elopement experience you create to cherish and remember forever. Filling your day with things you love to do will make it THAT much more meaningful.

On your elopement day, I am your guide, coordinator, friend, and, of course, photographer. Together, we get to run around and explore the beautiful locations you have chosen, creating personal moments and memories, catching a break, and, yes—time for posing and getting those amazing shots.

So what do you do for those in-between moments that would make your day uniquely yours? It can be ANYTHING! Tradition, adventures, and just being together. Here are some ideas:

• Ride an Icelandic horse
• Whale watching
• Snowmobile on a glacier
• Tour an ice cave
• Hike to a hot springs
• Explore the lava tunnels
• Scuba dive/snorkel between the tectonic plates
• Visit a waterfall
• Walk around a giant blue crater
• Watch the northern lights
• Stay up with the midnight sun
• Go boating on the glacier lagoon
• Visit an erupting volcano— if the timing aligns
• Go Puffin spotting on the Westfjards
• Fly in a helicopter to get even better views

Check out the full list of activity ideas here!

Where to Eat in Iceland

Iceland not only has some of the most breathtaking landscapes, but they also have some amazing food. Some of it is very unique to Iceland and you won’t find it anywhere else!

Fine Dining in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is home to some outstanding fine dining restaurants, known for their use of fresh, local ingredients and incredible craft cocktails. Here are some of my favorites:

• Apotek: This place has amazing food and craft cocktails
• Food Cellar: The ambiance here is incredible. You can dine next to a live pianist while enjoying a five-course meal of traditional Icelandic food paired with delicious drinks and exceptional service.
• Moss at the Blue Lagoon: This restaurant has beautiful views, seasonal menu, and it is Michelin-starred. You will need to make reservations far in advance to get a table here!
• The Lava Restaurant: Can’t get a reservation at Moss? The Lava is a good alternative. Consider stopping here after soaking for a few hours in the Blue Lagoon.

Cozy Coffee Shops

If you’re a coffee lover, Iceland has some quirky and cozy spots to grab a cup of your favorite brew.

• School Bus Cafes: All over Iceland, you’ll find these charming converted American school buses serving up coffee and snacks. 
• Skool Beans: Another school bus-inspired coffee place!

For more cozy coffee shops, check out this blog!

Gas Station Hot Dogs!

Yes, this is a thing. They are a nice go-to if you are on the road and hungry. However, if you have a weaker stomach, consider opting for one of their other fast food options. After all, it still is a hot dog.

Final Iceland Travel Tips

• Make sure you pack layers. You’re likely going to need them!
• Rent a 4×4 vehicle. Many of the most scenic areas, especially in the highlands, are only accessible via F-roads—these are rough, unpaved roads often featuring river crossings and steep terrain. You’ll need a vehicle with high clearance.
• One of the most important things to keep in mind when traveling in Iceland is to always fill up on gas whenever you see a station, especially if you’re heading into remote areas like the highlands. Gas stations can be few and far between, and you don’t want to get caught without fuel in the middle of nowhere!
• It’s also a good idea to stock up on snacks, water, and any other provisions when passing through towns, as services can be limited in the more remote parts of Iceland.
• For the adventurous couple, renting a camper van can be an incredible way to explore Iceland at your own pace. Camper vans allow you to stay close to nature and save on accommodation costs, all while giving you the flexibility to go wherever your heart desires. For this you can check out Hertz at the airport or Campervan rental.

My Iceland Elopement Packages

Hi! I’m Christina, your Iceland elopement photographer. Planning, traveling, and finding beautiful locations and experiences are my jam. Helping you create and document the celebration of a lifetime brings me the utmost joy! I want you to make the most amazing memories and have stunning photos that you can share with all of your loved ones. This is a day where you get to look back and say, “Wow, we did that!”

My Iceland elopement packages offer a half-, full–, or multi-day experience! I offer a ton of flexibility in designing our time together and would love to get to know you more to help you plan! To learn more, head over to my contact form, and we can get together on a call!

Offered throughout every elopement package:

• Help you hand pick a location
• Provide resources and custom location guides on lodging, activities, and the best places to indulge in delicious foods
• Scout locations with boots on the ground to find the best places and lighting for your ceremony and photos
• Secure the right location permits to make sure your wedding is legal!
• Recommend vetted vendors to help make your dream of a day come true. 
• Create your custom timeline (there are 2-3 options to choose from!) with room to breathe and enjoy your day.
• Deliver a joyful experience along with swoon-worthy photos in your own online gallery!
• Have a backup plan for it all!
• Deliver sneak peeks within 72 hours and a full wedding gallery within 6 weeks! 
• Provide a Fine Art Wedding Album design for you to print and hold onto your photos to thumb through for years to come.