How much does a destination wedding in Greece cost?
Planning a destination wedding is one of the most exciting adventures for couples, blending travel, culture, and love into one unforgettable experience. If you’re dreaming of tying the knot in Greece—whether it’s in the vibrant city of Athens or on one of its enchanting islands—you’re choosing a destination filled with romance, history, and picturesque views.
But as with any wedding, one of the biggest questions on your mind might be: How much does a wedding in Greece cost? As documentary wedding photographers based in Greece, we've had the honor of capturing numerous love stories across Athens, Paros, Milos, Santorini, Corfu, Crete, and many other stunning locations. Let's explore together what to expect when budgeting for your big day in our beautiful country.
1. Venue Costs: Athens vs. the Islands
Your wedding venue will be one of the most important—and often largest—expenses. There is usually a rental fee of €1000 - 3000 plus the catering cost per person if the venue provides its own chef/caterer. Greece offers a wide range of venues, from lush gardens and luxurious resorts to beachside villas and charming island chapels.
Athens: If you're looking for a cosmopolitan wedding with a touch of ancient history, Athens offers numerous venues with stunning views to the sea. From seaside villas to urban rooftops under the Acropolis, there’s a lot to choose from. With an international airport just 40 minutes from the city center, and a Riviera of 18km with some of the most renown seaside venues, Greece's capital simplifies a destination wedding's logistics. Check out some gorgeous venues at the Athenian Riviera here & here.
The Islands: For a more idyllic, relaxed atmosphere, the Greek islands are an excellent choice. Popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos offer luxurious resorts and some of the most famous sunsets on Earth, while lesser-known islands like Paros or Sifnos provide a more intimate setting without sacrificing beauty. While most of the islands do not have airports, ship routes are very regular during the summer season, making it easy to reach from Athens main port, Piraeus. Read our recommendations for some of the most beautiful venues on the Greek islands here.
Regardless of where you choose, Greece’s natural landscapes and architectural treasures will provide a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding day and the warm hospitality our country is famous for.
2. Catering and Drinks
Food is a central part of Greek culture, and your wedding day is no exception. Your guests will enjoy delicious local dishes like fresh seafood, grilled meats, and traditional Greek mezedes (appetizers). Catering options vary widely, and you can choose from a more casual buffet style to an elegant multi-course dinner, with plenty of local wine and signature cocktails to complement the meal.
When choosing a caterer, it’s important to find one that aligns with your vision for the day. Many venues offer in-house catering, while others allow you to bring in outside vendors. Whatever you choose, your guests are sure to enjoy a true taste of Greece. Keep in mind that food & drinks along with the venue fee usually require 1/2 of your total wedding budget.
3. Photography & Videography
As wedding photographers, we know how crucial it is to choose the right person for you who will capture every emotional, candid moment. Greece provides a stunning natural canvas, from the dramatic cliffs of Santorini to the lush olive groves of Crete. The best photography is about so much more than just the backdrop, though—it’s about capturing your story in a way that feels genuine and true to who you are.
When selecting a photographer or videographer, think about the style that resonates with you. Documentary-style photography is perfect for couples who want their day captured as it unfolds naturally, without posed or staged moments. It’s about telling the real story of your love and celebration and catching those precious fleeting moments of laughter, tears, hugging, dancing, being present.
Moreover, unlike most vendors that work and deliver on the day of, photographers and videographers' work isn't done on the wedding day. Their prices might seem high to many couples, but don't forget that the delivery of the photos and videos require many hours of editing to give you a result you'll love forever.
4. Wedding Planner Costs
Planning a wedding from abroad can be daunting, but hiring a local wedding planner can make all the difference. Many of you will say: "I'm capable of doing it on my own, I'll have only 30 guests". Whether you'll have 30 or 130 guests, having an ally by your side who has done this hundreds of times, gets a significant weight off your shoulders. A planner will not only help you with logistics, legal requirements, and timelines, but they can also recommend the best local vendors and ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day itself.
Whether you need full planning services or just a bit of guidance in the final stages, having a professional on your side will allow you to relax and enjoy your wedding experience from start to finish. You can always ask us for recommendations as we have collaborated with quite a few Greek wedding planners from both Athens and the Islands.
5. Accommodation and Travel Costs
One of the joys of a destination wedding is that it doubles as a mini-vacation for you and your guests! Greece offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to charming boutique stays and Airbnbs, making it easy to find something that suits your budget and style.
Athens provides a variety of accommodations, while the islands—particularly during the high season—tend to be more expensive (starting from €150/night in July & August). But with a little research, you can find options that are both comfortable and convenient for your guests. Booking a villa that accommodates everyone and serves as a wedding venue is a budget-friendly option that many couples turn to lately.
It’s also worth considering your travel costs, as well as assisting close family or the bridal party if necessary. Depending on where you're coming from, flight prices can vary, but planning in advance often helps keep costs down.
6. Flowers, Decorations, and Music
Greece’s natural beauty means that you don’t need to go overboard with decorations, but adding personal touches like floral arrangements, elegant centerpieces, and carefully chosen lighting can enhance the atmosphere.
Flowers can range from simple olive branch centerpieces to elaborate bouquets and floral arches. Local florists can help bring your vision to life, using seasonal blooms to match the natural surroundings. There are plenty of florists in Greece that can fulfill any Pinterest-inspired decoration wish, but be aware that you probably need to hire a florist from Athens if you're planning your destination wedding on an island.
When it comes to music, whether you prefer a live band, a violin duo, a saxophonist, traditional Greek musicians, or a DJ, the choices are plentiful. Music plays a huge role in setting the tone for your celebration, from the ceremony to the dance floor. Sound engineering agencies provide light services as well, meaning you can rent from them those fairy lights or disco balls you've always dreamed of!
7. Legal Requirements and Documentation
It’s important to ensure that your marriage is legally recognized in your home country. Each country has different requirements, and Greece is no exception. If you’re planning a civil ceremony, you’ll need to handle the necessary paperwork, translations, and legalities. A wedding planner can be invaluable in navigating this process, ensuring that everything is in place before your big day.
8. Total Estimated Cost
To sum things up, while the total cost of a destination wedding in Greece can vary widely depending on your preferences, most couples spend between €20,000 to €50,000. This covers everything from the venue and catering to photography, travel, and other essential services. Of course, the final cost will depend on the size of your wedding, the location, and how much you want to invest in extras like entertainment, décor, and luxury accommodations.
9. Elopement Costs in Greece
For couples looking for a more intimate and personal experience, elopements in Greece are a beautiful, budget-friendly option. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a secluded beach in Milos or on a rocky cliff in Santorini, an elopement allows you to focus on what truly matters—your love for one another—without the logistics of a larger wedding. The costs for an elopement are typically much lower than a traditional wedding, as you’ll only need to budget for the essentials: a photographer, officiant, minimal décor, and potentially a small celebration dinner. Depending on your preferences and location, couples can expect to spend between €5,000 to €10,000, making an elopement in Greece both a romantic and cost-effective way to say "I do."
Final thoughts
At its heart, a destination wedding in Greece is about more than just the celebration—it’s about creating memories that you and your loved ones will cherish for a lifetime. While the planning and budgeting may seem overwhelming at first, the reward is an unforgettable day set against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful countries in the world (we are not biased!).
As wedding photographers, we believe that capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments authentically is what makes your wedding day even more special. We’re here to help ensure that every emotion, every smile, and every detail is preserved in a way that tells the real story and catches the vibe of your day.
If you’re planning a wedding in Greece and want your love story documented in a genuine, timeless way, we’d love to be part of your journey. Get in touch with us and let’s make your dream wedding a reality!
