Planning a destination wedding is such a special way to celebrate your love, and you've chosen some absolutely stunning locations to consider. As a wedding photographer I have had the pleasure of helping countless couples plan their perfect day and would therefore like to share everything you need to know about getting married in Santorini, other beautiful Greek locations, Gibraltar, and Spain.
Let me walk you through each destination with specific venue recommendations, costs, and the real pros and cons you should consider for your intimate celebration.
Santorini, Greece: The Crown Jewel
Santorini remains the ultimate romantic destination, and for good reason. Those iconic blue domes, dramatic cliff-side views, and legendary sunsets create a backdrop that's simply unmatched.
Top 3 Santorini Wedding Venues for Small Weddings
1. Le Ciel Santorini
Capacity: 30-60 guests (minimum 30 in high season)
Style: Luxury clifftop venue with panoramic caldera views
What makes it special: Infinity pool setting, all-white minimalist design
Estimated cost: €18,000-€25,000 for small weddings
2. El Viento Wedding Venue
Capacity: 10-35 guests
Style: Boutique venue with traditional Cycladic architecture
What makes it special: Intimate terraced spaces, authentic Greek charm
Estimated cost: €15,000-€22,000 for small weddings
3. Cavo Ventus Luxury Events
Capacity: 15-50 guests
Style: Modern luxury with traditional elements
What makes it special: Multiple ceremony locations on property, exclusive use
Estimated cost: €20,000-€30,000 for small weddings
Santorini: Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages:
Absolutely breathtaking scenery that requires minimal decoration
World-class photography opportunities
Established wedding infrastructure with experienced vendors
Romantic atmosphere that guests will never forget
Great flight connections from major European cities
Disadvantages:
Higher costs (expect €15,000-€30,000+ for 20-40 guests)
Very popular, requiring bookings 12-18 months in advance
Limited venue availability during peak season (May-October)
Can be crowded with tourists during high season
Strong winds can be challenging for outdoor ceremonies
Other Stunning Greek Wedding Destinations
Greece offers so many incredible alternatives to Santorini, often with better value and equally stunning beauty.
Top 3 Greek Island Wedding Venues
1. Four Seasons Hydra (Hydra Island)
Capacity: Up to 300 guests (perfect for intimate 20-50 guest weddings)
Style: Elegant resort with beautiful gardens and private beach access
What makes it special: Car-free island atmosphere, sophisticated venue
Estimated cost: €12,000-€20,000 for small weddings
2. Sunset Hydra Restaurant (Hydra Island)
Capacity: Up to 300 seated (ideal for 30-80 guests)
Style: Traditional Greek venue with harbor views
What makes it special: Authentic Greek dining experience, historic setting
Estimated cost: €8,000-€15,000 for small weddings
3. Hotel Leto Hydra (Hydra Island)
Capacity: 20-60 guests
Style: Boutique hotel with traditional Cycladic design
What makes it special: Intimate cobblestone setting, full-service planning
Estimated cost: €10,000-€18,000 for small weddings
Greek Islands: Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages:
More affordable than Santorini (30-50% cost savings)
Less crowded, more authentic Greek experience
Charming car-free environments (especially Hydra)
Rich history and culture
Excellent local cuisine and hospitality
Disadvantages:
Fewer direct flight options than Santorini
May require ferry transfers for guests
Limited vendor options compared to Santorini
Weather can be unpredictable in shoulder seasons
Gibraltar: The Unique British-Mediterranean Blend
Gibraltar offers something completely different - British efficiency with Mediterranean charm, making it surprisingly practical for destination weddings.
Top 3 Gibraltar Wedding Venues
1. The Rock Hotel
Capacity: 2-200 guests (perfect for intimate celebrations)
Style: Historic luxury hotel with stunning views
What makes it special: Award-winning dining, multiple indoor/outdoor spaces
Estimated cost: €8,000-€15,000 for small weddings
2. Sunborn Yacht Hotel
Capacity: 2-50 guests for intimate ceremonies
Style: Luxury floating hotel experience
What makes it special: Unique yacht setting, modern amenities
Estimated cost: €10,000-€18,000 for small weddings
3. Alameda Botanic Gardens
Capacity: 2-100 guests
Style: Beautiful outdoor garden setting
What makes it special: Lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers
Estimated cost: €5,000-€10,000 for small weddings
Gibraltar: Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages:
English-speaking ceremonies (no translator needed)
Simple legal requirements with global marriage recognition
Year-round warm weather (300+ days of sunshine)
Easy access from UK (2 hours 50 minutes flight)
No residential requirements for marriage
Very affordable compared to other destinations
Disadvantages:
Limited romantic appeal compared to Greek islands
Fewer luxury venue options
Less dramatic scenery for photography
Tourist-heavy Rock of Gibraltar area
Limited cultural experiences for guests
Spain: Diverse Beauty from Coast to City
Spain offers incredible diversity, from Mediterranean beaches to historic cities, often with excellent value for money.
Top 3 Spanish Wedding Venues
1. Finca Villa Palma (Costa del Sol, near Marbella)
Capacity: 20-120 guests
Style: Rustic mountain finca with sea views
What makes it special: Lush forest setting, mountain and ocean views
Estimated cost: €12,000-€20,000 for small weddings
2. Hotel Castell d'Empordà (Catalonia)
Capacity: 20-80 guests
Style: Medieval castle with modern amenities
What makes it special: Historic architecture, exclusive venue use
Estimated cost: €15,000-€25,000 for small weddings
3. Can Riera de la Pineda (Mallorca)
Capacity: 20-100 guests
Style: Traditional Mallorcan finca with rustic charm
What makes it special: Authentic Spanish countryside, flexible layouts
Estimated cost: €10,000-€18,000 for small weddings
Spain: Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages:
Excellent value for money
Diverse venue options (beaches, mountains, cities, historic sites)
Outstanding food and wine culture
Great weather, especially in southern regions
Easy travel access from across Europe
Vibrant culture and entertainment for guests
Disadvantages:
Language barriers (though many vendors speak English)
Complex legal requirements for marriage ceremonies
May be better suited for symbolic ceremonies
Peak season crowds in popular coastal areas
Siesta culture can affect vendor availability timing
Budget Considerations for Small Destination Weddings
Based on recent real weddings, here's what you can expect to spend:
Santorini: €15,000-€30,000+ (20-40 guests) Other Greek Islands: €8,000-€20,000 (20-40 guests) Gibraltar: €5,000-€15,000 (20-40 guests) Spain: €8,000-€20,000 (20-40 guests)
These estimates include venue, catering, basic florals, photography, and ceremony setup. Exclude guest travel and accommodation.
My Recommendations
Choose Santorini if: Budget isn't your primary concern and you want the most Instagram-worthy, romantic setting possible. Book 18+ months ahead.
Choose Other Greek Islands if: You want authentic Greek charm with better value and fewer crowds. Hydra is particularly magical for intimate weddings.
Choose Gibraltar if: You prefer simple logistics, English-speaking vendors, and want a unique but affordable destination that's easy for UK guests.
Choose Spain if: You want excellent value, diverse venue options, and amazing food and wine. Perfect for couples who love vibrant culture.
Essential Planning Tips
Book early: Popular venues fill up 12-18 months in advance
Consider shoulder seasons: April-May and September-October offer better pricing and weather
Budget for guest experience: Factor in welcome events and group activities
Legal requirements: Consider symbolic ceremonies to avoid complex paperwork
Wedding planner: Absolutely essential for destination weddings - local expertise is invaluable
Final Thoughts
Each destination offers something magical for your special day. Santorini delivers unmatched romance, Greek islands provide authentic charm, Gibraltar offers practical luxury, and Spain gives you incredible diversity and value.
The most important thing? Choose the place that feels right for you as a couple. Your guests will be thrilled to celebrate your love anywhere you choose, and the memories you create will be absolutely priceless.
Wishing you the most beautiful celebration! 💕