The Ultimate Guide to Getting Married in Iceland

Do you want to have your wedding in Iceland? What do you need to do before tying the knot in Iceland? Are you planning on a private elopement or searching for Icelandic wedding packages? Read on to find out all the information about why Iceland is the perfect country for a destination wedding.

Landscapes that feel out of this world, black sand beaches, charming wooden churches, green fields stretching beneath volcanoes and glaciers, long summer nights, and the dancing northern lights make getting married in Iceland truly unforgettable. Many couples turn their special day into a full journey with vacation packages and self-drive tours, discovering waterfalls, lava fields, and quiet coastal views before or after the wedding.

Whether planning a private elopement or a grand destination wedding in Iceland, expert support makes every detail easier. You can contact Guide to Iceland to connect with a dedicated wedding planner who will help design and organize your perfect day, ensuring a seamless and deeply romantic celebration surrounded by Iceland’s breathtaking nature.

Beyond the ceremony, Iceland is a magical place for proposals, romantic escapes, and unforgettable honeymoons, with thoughtfully designed honeymoon packages that allow newlyweds to relax and explore at their own pace. Imagine soaking together in a hidden hot spring, walking hand in hand along a glacier lagoon, or watching the midnight sun paint the sky in soft gold.

Key Takeaways

• Iceland is a top destination wedding location, offering dramatic backdrops like waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and charming countryside churches.

• Foreign couples can legally marry in Iceland, with straightforward requirements and a simple document submission process.

• Ceremonies can be religious or non-religious, including civil, humanist, and legally recognized Ásatrú (Pagan) weddings.

• Same-sex marriages are fully legal, and Iceland is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly places to get married.

• Symbolic ceremonies are an option, allowing couples to legally marry at home while celebrating their vows in Iceland’s landscapes.

• Iceland’s location makes travel easy for couples and guests arriving from North America or Europe, with convenient stopover options.

• Local wedding planners and photographers are invaluable, helping navigate weather conditions and find breathtaking, lesser-known locations.

• Popular wedding venues include Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Jokulsarlon, Reynisfjara, Stokksnes, Kirkjufell, and Thingvellir.

• Couples can turn their wedding into a full Iceland experience, enjoying activities like northern lights tours, glacier hikes, hot springs, horseback riding, and sightseeing.

Why Iceland Is the Perfect Destination Wedding Location

Iceland is conveniently situated between North America and Europe, with the country's largest airline, Icelandair, offering free stopover packages for up to a week when flying between the continents. This makes it easy to turn a layover into an unforgettable experience, with plenty of things to do during a stopover in Iceland, including visiting the Blue Lagoon, exploring the Golden Circle, and discovering Reykjavik’s vibrant culture, all within easy reach of the airport.

Its unique location also makes Iceland a perfect meeting point for couples with guests traveling from both continents, or for those flying from North America and continuing on to Europe for their honeymoon, or vice versa. By taking advantage of the free stopover, couples can even get married during their layover on the way to their honeymoon destination!

Why choose Iceland for your wedding ceremony? Iceland has already established itself as one of the best vacation destinations in the world, so it follows that it would be one of the best wedding destinations as well! If you need more reasons to choose Iceland for your ceremony:

• Iceland’s marriage requirements for foreign visitors are very straightforward

• Ceremonies can be performed for every religion, or lack thereof

• Same-sex marriages are legal

• Your wedding photographs will be out of this world!

Hiring a local photographer is the best way to get the most unique and amazing pictures of your special day. They will know the perfect locations, including some that you won’t find in any guidebook. The pictures in this article are just a few examples of the magic these local photographers can create by working with Iceland’s natural beauty!

Beyond just knowing the landscape, local photographers are also skilled at working with Iceland’s ever-changing weather and natural light, which can shift dramatically throughout the day. Their experience allows them to adapt quickly and make the most of each moment, whether it’s capturing a golden sunset over a black sand beach or making dramatic use of moody skies in the highlands.

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• Take a look at the Best Places for Marriage Proposals in Iceland

• Don't hesitate to check out The Most Romantic Places in Iceland

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How To Get Married in Iceland as a Foreigner

Photo by Beatriz Pérez Moya.

It is easy for foreign couples to get married in Iceland. However, there are, of course, some legal details to be sorted out, and you will need to fill out some paperwork. This process has to be done correctly, or you run the risk of your marriage being cancelled (legally, at least!), so carefully read all the rules and requirements and make a checklist to ensure all steps are completed at the right time. 

To get married in Iceland as a foreigner, both parties need to be at least 18 years old and not already married. If one or both have been married before, then they will need to provide proof of divorce. 

Both parties must also be legally competent and may not be closely related (including siblings, direct descendants, or adoptive relationships unless the adoption has been formally revoked). Legal separation alone does not permit remarriage.

All documents submitted will need to be original, and if they are not in English or any of the Scandinavian languages, you must provide a translation. 

There are two ways to submit the required documents:

• Submit the original documents at least three weeks before the wedding.

• E-mail the documents first and hand over the original documents in person, no later than five days before the wedding date. If you hire a local wedding planner, they can do this for you.

If the documents do not arrive within this timeframe, the marriage is considered canceled. The National Registry (Þjóðskrá) requires that these documents be received in Reykjavik.

Under Icelandic law, marriage is based on full equality between spouses. Married partners have equal rights and equal obligations toward each other and any children they may have together.

Each spouse is individually responsible for their own assets and liabilities. Property within a marriage may be classified as matrimonial (shared) property or as separate/private property, as determined by law or by a prenuptial agreement. 

For couples who prefer not to complete the legal marriage process in Iceland, a symbolic wedding is also an option. In this case, the couple is legally married in their home country and uses Iceland solely as the setting for their ceremony, vows, and photographs.

Required Documents To Get Married in Iceland

To legally get married in Iceland, couples must submit specific documents in advance to confirm their eligibility. These are reviewed by Icelandic authorities as part of the official marriage approval process. Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay or prevent the wedding, so it’s important to prepare everything ahead of time. Below is a checklist of the required documents to get married in Iceland.

• Marriage notification (Hjónavígsluskýrsla)

• Birth certificates of both parties.

• Certificate of marital status, issued within 12 weeks prior to the wedding date.

• A divorce decree if either party is divorced.

• If either party is widowed, official documentation confirming the death of the former spouse and that the estate has been formally settled.

• Valid passports or other acceptable government-issued identification of both parties.

• If any required documents are not in English or a Scandinavian language, a certified translation must be submitted.

After the ceremony has taken place, it is possible to obtain a wedding certificate in English from the National Registry, Þjóðskrá.

Once the legal requirements are in place, the next exciting step in planning your destination wedding in Iceland is choosing where the ceremony will take place. From dramatic natural landscapes and iconic waterfalls to classic churches and boutique hotels, Iceland offers some of the most breathtaking spots on earth to say “I do.” 

The following section highlights some of the best places to get married in Iceland.

Waterfall Wedding Venues in Iceland

With so many breathtaking waterfalls in Iceland, it’s no surprise they are among the most popular ceremony backdrops. Powerful, romantic, and deeply symbolic, these natural wonders create unforgettable settings for eloping in Iceland or hosting an intimate outdoor wedding surrounded by dramatic scenery.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Seljalandsfoss is one of the most iconic waterfalls you can walk behind in Iceland. The unique path behind the cascade allows couples to exchange vows surrounded by flowing water and soft mist, creating magical and cinematic wedding photos. It is especially popular for couples planning an intimate destination wedding in Iceland.

Skogafoss Waterfall

Skogafoss is a wide and dramatic waterfall on Iceland’s South Coast, known for its powerful flow and frequent rainbows on sunny days. Couples often choose this location for its bold scenery and easy accessibility, making it ideal for both elopements and small wedding groups.

Haifoss Waterfall

Haifoss, one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, offers a more secluded and adventurous setting. Its remote location creates a sense of privacy that many couples seek when eloping in Iceland. The sweeping canyon views add depth and drama to wedding photography.

Dynjandi Waterfall

Located in the Westfjords, Dynjandi is a breathtaking series of cascading waterfalls. Its remote setting makes it perfect for couples wanting a quiet and scenic ceremony away from crowds while still experiencing one of the most beautiful wedding venues in Iceland.

​​Glacier and Lagoon Wedding Locations in Iceland

Few places in the world compare to the experience of getting married in Iceland beside ancient ice formations. Glaciers and glacier lagoons in Iceland provide a truly otherworldly setting for couples seeking something extraordinary.

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is one of the most unique places for a destination wedding in Iceland. Floating icebergs drift across the calm water, creating a serene and surreal ceremony backdrop. This location is ideal for couples who want dramatic, once-in-a-lifetime wedding photos.

Vatnajokull Glacier

As Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajokull offers vast, sweeping landscapes of white and blue ice. Getting married in Iceland on or near a glacier creates an adventurous and unforgettable experience. Guided glacier tours ensure safety while allowing couples to embrace the raw beauty of the environment.

Breidamerkurjokull Glacier

An outlet glacier of Vatnajokull, Breidamerkurjokull features striking ice formations and sculpted glacier walls. This location provides a more intimate glacier setting, perfect for couples eloping in Iceland and seeking a powerful yet private ceremony space.

Beach and Coastal Wedding Venues in Iceland

Photo by Dmitry Schemelev

Iceland’s volcanic coastline offers bold and cinematic settings for couples getting married in Iceland. Black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and powerful ocean views create unforgettable ceremony locations.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara is one of the most famous beach wedding venues in Iceland. Its basalt columns and striking Atlantic waves create a dramatic and instantly recognizable setting. Couples planning a destination wedding in Iceland often choose this location for its raw beauty and unique volcanic landscape.

Dyrholaey Sea Cliffs

Dyrholaey offers elevated coastal views, sweeping ocean panoramas, and rugged cliffs. This location is ideal for couples who want a dramatic yet romantic backdrop while eloping in Iceland or hosting an intimate seaside ceremony.

Diamond Beach

Situated near Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach features icebergs washed ashore on black sand. The contrast between sparkling ice and dark volcanic sand creates a striking and unique setting for wedding portraits and intimate ceremonies.

Stokksnes and Vestrahorn

Stokksnes Beach, with the dramatic Vestrahorn Mountain rising behind it, offers one of the most photogenic coastal backdrops in Iceland. The windswept dunes and reflective black sand create a bold setting for couples seeking a cinematic destination wedding in Iceland.

Scenic Elopement Locations in Iceland

For couples dreaming of eloping in Iceland, the island is filled with hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes that offer privacy and intimacy. These scenic locations are ideal for smaller ceremonies surrounded by untouched nature and dramatic terrain.

Landmannalaugar Highlands

The Landmannalaugar Highlands are known for their colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, and geothermal steam vents. Getting married in Iceland in Landmannalaugar creates a truly adventurous and unforgettable experience for couples seeking something extraordinary. 

Landmannalaugar is accessed via mountain F-roads by 4x4 vehicle during the summer months, or by guided super jeep tours, as the area is closed and inaccessible in winter.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is often described as “Iceland in miniature” because it combines glaciers, lava fields, cliffs, and black sand beaches within one region. Choosing the Snaefellsnes Peninsula for a destination wedding in Iceland allows couples to experience varied and dramatic landscapes without traveling long distances.

Kirkjufell Mountain

Kirkjufell Mountain is one of the most photographed landmarks in Iceland and provides a striking backdrop for a wedding. Located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Kirkjufell is often paired with the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall, creating iconic and dramatic wedding portraits.

Fjadrargljufur Canyon

Fjadrargljufur Canyon offers a winding river, moss-covered cliffs, and elevated viewpoints that create a quiet and cinematic ceremony setting. Eloping in Iceland at Fjadrargljufur provides sweeping canyon views and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for intimate vows.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Getting married in Iceland at Thingvellir combines dramatic rift valley landscapes with historic and cultural significance, making it one of the most meaningful ceremony locations.

Indoor Wedding Venues in Iceland

While outdoor ceremonies are especially popular for eloping in Iceland, there are also beautiful indoor wedding venues in Iceland suited for couples inviting guests and hosting receptions.

• Ægir 220 – A rustic and historic venue by the harbor, offering character-filled interiors and ocean views for an atmospheric celebration.

• Hvammsvik Hot Springs – A unique wedding venue combining geothermal landscapes with refined facilities, offering both indoor and outdoor ceremony possibilities.

• Hotel Budir and Budakirkja Church – A beloved choice where couples marry in the iconic black church and host their reception at the historic hotel nearby, surrounded by nature but comfortably indoors.

• Kornhladan – Located in downtown Reykjavik next to BakaBaka, this stylish and modern venue provides a warm and elegant setting for wedding receptions.

• Ingolfsskali Viking Restaurant – A cozy and atmospheric venue offering traditional Viking charm, ideal for intimate gatherings.

• Hallgrimskirkja Church – Iceland’s most recognizable church, located in central Reykjavik and suitable for larger wedding parties.

• Domkirkjan – A historic cathedral in the heart of Reykjavik, close to many reception venues and accommodations.

These venues provide flexibility, comfort, and reception facilities while still allowing couples and guests to experience the beauty of Iceland.

What To Wear for an Icelandic Wedding

When planning a wedding in Iceland, choosing the right clothing is just as important as choosing the venue. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable year-round, and temperatures are often cooler than visitors expect. Whether you are planning a winter wedding, a summer elopement, or an outdoor ceremony, dressing appropriately will ensure comfort, safety, and great wedding photos.

Before traveling, it’s a good idea to review general guidance on what to pack for travel in Iceland, as many of the same clothing principles apply to wedding days as well. Layering, wind protection, and waterproof materials are essential no matter the season.

What To Wear to a Winter Wedding in Iceland

Winter weddings in Iceland require warm, weather-ready attire, especially for outdoor ceremonies and photo sessions. Temperatures can fall well below freezing, and strong winds are common. Thermal base layers can easily be worn under wedding dresses and suits without affecting appearance. Many couples also wear insulated coats, cloaks, or shawls until the moment photography begins.

With limited daylight during winter, particularly in December, wedding schedules need to be planned carefully. The benefit of winter ceremonies is the possibility of capturing wedding photos beneath the northern lights on clear evenings.

What To Wear to a Summer Wedding in Iceland

Summer weddings in Iceland are milder but still require preparation for wind and rain. Average temperatures range from 50–59 F (10–15 C), and sudden weather changes are common. Lightweight layers, waterproof outerwear, and wind-resistant accessories are strongly recommended.

Outdoor ceremonies and photo sessions often involve trails, mountain viewpoints, or waterfalls, where ground conditions can be wet or muddy. As a result, shoes and dress hems frequently get dirty. Bringing a second pair of shoes or wearing footwear you do not mind getting muddy is a practical solution.

Shoes, Accessories, and Practical Styling

Photo by Stephane YAICH.

Choosing the right shoes is crucial for an Icelandic wedding. Sturdy footwear with good grip is often more practical than traditional dress shoes, especially for outdoor locations. Accessories such as wraps, shawls, gloves, and thermal socks can be both functional and stylish additions.

For hair and makeup, natural and wind-resistant styles tend to hold up best. Many couples choose experienced local professionals who understand how Iceland’s climate affects styling throughout the day.

Traditional Icelandic Wedding Clothing

Couples who want to incorporate local culture into their wedding can rent the Icelandic national dress for their ceremony. This traditional attire is most commonly black with gold detailing, though blue or white versions with gold or silver trim are also available.

Another authentic Icelandic option is wearing a lopapeysa, a traditional hand-knit wool sweater made from Icelandic wool. These sweaters are not only warm and practical but also highly symbolic. Couples can contact a knitter in Iceland to commission custom-made lopapeysa designs in specific colors or patterns, making them a meaningful keepsake long after the wedding day.

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• See Also: The Right Clothes and Gear for Tours in Iceland

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Is a Priest Needed for a Wedding in Iceland?

No, you don’t need a priest to get married in Iceland. If you want to have a legal wedding ceremony rather than a symbolic one, you do need a certified legal officiant, but that officiant does not have to be religious. Many couples choose a civil officiant, such as a district commissioner, while others opt for a humanist or life-stance celebrant.

While Iceland is historically a Protestant country and the National Church of Iceland is Lutheran, there are a variety of religious communities across the island, including Catholic, Buddhist, Muslim, and Jewish congregations. This diversity allows couples of different faiths, or none at all, to find a ceremony style that reflects their beliefs and values.

Legal wedding ceremonies in Iceland can be performed by:

• District Commissioners or their legally trained representatives

• Ministers of the National Church of Iceland

• Ministers or leaders of registered religious organizations

• Leaders or representatives of registered life-stance or humanist organizations

One of the most popular options for non-religious ceremonies is Sidmennt, a well-known humanist organization in Iceland that conducts legally recognized civil ceremonies focused on personal values rather than religious traditions.

As long as your officiant is certified under Icelandic law, the marriage is legally valid. All legal wedding ceremonies in Iceland also require two witnesses, regardless of whether the ceremony is religious or civil.

If you were hoping to bring a priest or celebrant from your home country, keep in mind that foreign officiants are generally not allowed to legally marry couples in Iceland unless they receive special permission. Because of this, many couples choose to involve foreign officiants in symbolic ceremonies instead.

Pagan (Ásatrú) Wedding Ceremonies in Iceland

In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in interest in the Nordic Pagan religion, Ásatrú, and Iceland is one of the few countries where Paganism has the same legal standing as other recognized religions. This means that a certified Pagan chieftain can legally officiate a wedding in Iceland, making it a popular choice for couples looking for something a little different.

If you choose a Pagan wedding ceremony in Iceland, you’ll have a lot of freedom when it comes to how and where it takes place. Ceremonies can be held indoors or outdoors, and couples typically work closely with their chieftain ahead of time to shape the experience. Each ceremony is influenced by its surroundings, so no two Pagan weddings are ever the same.

The ceremony usually begins with a blessing of the chosen location, followed by selected readings from the Prose Edda and a ceremonial speech from the chieftain. Nature and the elements play a central role, often symbolized by a circle of fire around the ceremonial space. Couples may drink mead, or another beverage of their choice, such as champagne, from a Viking horn and exchange vows while holding a ceremonial brass ring.

For fans of Game of Thrones, this might be the best way to fulfill your dreams of a GoT styled wedding (minus the Rains of Castamere). You can even set your ceremony at one of the many Game of Thrones filming locations in Iceland!

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• See Also: Movie Locations in Iceland

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Same-Sex Marriages in Iceland

Photo by Alvin Mahmudov

Is gay marriage legal in Iceland? Yes. Iceland does not discriminate against sexualities, and same-sex marriages have been allowed since 2010, when the Icelandic parliament unanimously agreed to the new law.

Shortly after that, Iceland's prime minister at the time, the openly lesbian Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, was the first head of government in the world to take advantage of the new law when she married her longtime partner. 

Iceland is regarded as one of the world's best countries for gay marriages, and the LGBTQ+ culture in Iceland is thriving.

Yearly, there's the Reykjavik Pride festival in August, with about a third of the nation attending. This festival is a huge celebration, one of the largest festivals in the country, and is family-friendly.

Iceland is a very queer-welcoming destination, and many gay and lesbian couples have opted to travel to Iceland to wed in recent years. Some choose to do so because same-sex marriages are not allowed in their home countries, while others simply want to have a stunning destination wedding in a very welcoming and inclusive society.

All wedding planners in Iceland welcome queer people with open arms, whether they have a special focus on LGBTQ+ or not.

Activities Before or After the Wedding

One of the best things about getting married in Iceland is how easy it is to turn your wedding into a full experience for both you and your guests. Whether you’re planning activities in the days leading up to the ceremony or looking for memorable ways to celebrate afterward, there's no shortage of incredible things to do in Iceland.

Many activities in Iceland are seasonal, so timing plays an important role when planning your pre- or post-wedding itinerary. Ice caving, for example, is typically only available from mid-October to mid-March, depending on conditions and tour operators. 

Northern lights tours are only possible once it gets dark at night, which means they are not available between mid-May and mid-August. Activities such as river rafting are limited to the warmer months of the year.

The Icelandic Highlands are another experience that requires advance planning. These remote areas are generally only accessible by 4x4 vehicles during summer, roughly from late June to mid-September. Outside of that window, visiting the Highlands is only possible through helicopter tours, which can be an unforgettable way to celebrate a wedding in Iceland.

Fortunately, there are also plenty of activities that can be enjoyed year-round. Popular options for couples and guests include horseback riding, snorkeling, ice climbing, snowmobiling, ATV tours, and whale watching. Sightseeing is always an option as well, regardless of season.

Many couples choose to rent a car and plan a self-drive adventure around Iceland before or after the wedding. This allows you and your guests to explore Iceland at your own pace, with classic routes such as the Golden Circle, the South Coast, northern Iceland around Lake Myvatn, or the Snaefellsnes Peninsula all offering spectacular scenery and easy-to-follow itineraries.

To unwind after the celebrations, spending time at one of Iceland’s hot springs and geothermal pools is a favorite choice. A visit to the Blue Lagoon or one of the many natural hot springs and spa facilities around the country is a relaxing way to end the wedding festivities and give guests a memorable final experience.