Your Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Iceland
If eloping in a land of waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and otherworldly landscapes sounds like a dream come true, Iceland might just be your perfect wedding destination. Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” Iceland is the ultimate choice for couples seeking adventure, natural beauty, and a dash of magic on their wedding day.
With endless opportunities for exploration and intimacy, an Iceland elopement is more than a ceremony—it’s an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re exchanging vows beneath a cascading waterfall, beside a glacier lagoon, or on a moss-covered lava field, Iceland invites you to break free from tradition and craft a day that’s truly your own.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about planning your Iceland elopement, from the best time to visit to where to stay, and how to navigate this incredible island.
Why Eloping in Iceland is Pure Magic
Iceland is a land of contrasts, where fire meets ice, and wild landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. Here’s why it’s a top choice for adventurous couples:
- Epic Scenery: Glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, black sand beaches, and towering waterfalls—every inch of Iceland looks like it’s straight out of a fantasy movie.
- Unique Ceremony Locations: From Reynisfjara Beach to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, you’ll have no shortage of jaw-dropping backdrops for your vows.
- Intimacy and Solitude: While Iceland is popular with travelers, it’s easy to find secluded spots for a truly private ceremony.
- Adventure-Friendly: Love hiking, exploring caves, or taking a dip in a geothermal lagoon? Iceland offers endless opportunities to add adventure to your day.
Planning Your Iceland Elopement
1. Where to Fly Into
Most couples flying to Iceland will land at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located about 45 minutes from Reykjavík, the country’s capital. Keflavík is Iceland’s main international airport, and it’s well-connected to North America and Europe with direct flights from major cities like New York, Seattle, London, and Paris.
Once you land, you can either rent a car or campervan to explore the island or base yourself in Reykjavík and book day trips to popular sites.
2. Renting a Campervan or Airbnb
How you choose to travel and stay in Iceland will shape your elopement experience:
- Campervan Life: Renting a campervan is a popular way to explore Iceland. It gives you the freedom to chase the best light, visit remote locations, and wake up to incredible views. Companies like Happy Campers or KúKú Campers offer well-equipped vans for your adventure.
- Airbnbs and Guesthouses: For a more comfortable stay, Iceland is filled with charming Airbnbs and guesthouses, many of which are located in stunning natural settings. Look for cozy cabins with hot tubs or farmhouses near iconic landmarks for a mix of luxury and accessibility.
3. Best Time to Elope: Winter vs. Summer
Iceland offers two very different experiences depending on the season. Here’s what to expect:
Summer (May-August)
- Midnight Sun: Endless daylight means more time for exploring, and golden hour can last for hours.
- Milder Weather: Temperatures range from 50–60°F (10–15°C), making it comfortable for outdoor ceremonies.
- Accessible Roads: Most of the country’s highland roads and hiking trails are open, giving you access to remote locations.
- Crowds: Summer is Iceland’s peak tourist season, so plan ahead to find quiet spots.
Winter (October-March)
- Northern Lights: The aurora borealis is one of Iceland’s biggest draws in winter—imagine saying your vows under a dancing sky!
- Snowy Landscapes: Glaciers, frozen waterfalls, and snow-covered lava fields create a magical winter wonderland.
- Shorter Days: With only 4–6 hours of daylight, winter is better for couples who want to focus on a few key locations.
- Chilly Weather: Temperatures hover around freezing, so bundle up and embrace the cold!
4. Choosing Your Ceremony Location
Iceland is packed with incredible locations, so narrowing it down can be tricky. Here are some of the best spots to consider:
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: With its dramatic basalt columns and roaring waves, this iconic beach is perfect for moody and cinematic vows.
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, you can walk behind it for a truly unique ceremony backdrop.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Say “I do” beside a lagoon filled with floating icebergs—it doesn’t get more magical than this.
- Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning cliffs, canyons, and historical significance.
- Hidden Spots: Iceland is full of lesser-known gems, from mossy lava fields to geothermal springs. Let us help you find a secluded location that feels like your own private paradise.
5. Legal Requirements for Eloping in Iceland
Getting legally married in Iceland is straightforward, but it does require some preparation:
- Marriage License: Couples need to submit documents (including passports, birth certificates, and a Certificate of Marital Status) to the Icelandic authorities at least three weeks before their ceremony.
- Ceremony Officiants: In Iceland, both religious and civil ceremonies are legally binding. Learn more about Iceland’s marriage laws here.
- Plan Ahead: To avoid stress, start the paperwork process early and double-check all requirements with Iceland’s official marriage offices.
6. Time Difference and Jet Lag
Iceland operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) with no daylight savings, meaning the time difference is:
- 5 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET)
- 8 hours ahead of Pacific Time (PT)
To beat jet lag, try arriving a day or two early to acclimate and settle into the Icelandic rhythm. Plus, it gives you time to explore Reykjavík before heading out into the wild.
7. What to Wear
Dressing for an Iceland elopement means balancing style with practicality:
- For Our Dress Wearers: Flowy dresses in heavy fabrics look stunning in the wind, and layers like cozy wraps or jackets will keep you warm. Opt for waterproof shoes or boots—you’ll thank us later!
- For Our Suit Wearers: Suits in earthy tones like gray, navy, or deep green complement Iceland’s natural colors beautifully. Add a tailored coat for warmth and style.
- Accessories: Don’t forget gloves, scarves, and thermal layers—they’ll keep you comfortable without compromising your look.
Your Iceland Elopement Day
The Morning
Start your day with a quiet breakfast in your campervan or Airbnb, soaking in the surreal beauty of Iceland’s landscapes. We’ll capture the excitement as you get ready, whether that’s lacing up boots, layering for the cold, or sipping coffee with a glacier in view.
The Ceremony
Your vows will feel larger than life, set against Iceland’s epic backdrops. Whether it’s beneath a waterfall, on a black sand beach, or beside a glacier lagoon, your ceremony will be intimate, emotional, and unforgettable. We’ll document every tear, laugh, and kiss in both photo and video.
The Adventure
After your ceremony, it’s time to explore! Hike to a secret spot, share a picnic beside a waterfall, or dip into a geothermal spring. With sweeping drone shots and candid moments, we’ll capture the adventure of your day from every angle.
The Evening
If it’s summer, you can bask in the glow of the midnight sun; if it’s winter, chase the northern lights for a once-in-a-lifetime photo op. No matter the season, Iceland’s magic will follow you into the night.
Why Iceland + The Crawfords = Perfection
At The Crawfords, we’re all about crafting and capturing elopements that feel adventurous, authentic, and unforgettable. Here’s how we’ll make your Iceland elopement incredible:
- Location Expertise: From iconic spots to hidden gems, we’ll guide you to the best locations for your day.
- Seamless Photo + Video: Our cohesive storytelling approach ensures your elopement is beautifully documented in both motion and stills.
- Adventure-Ready: Hiking boots? Check. Drone footage? Absolutely. Snacks? Always.
Check out our elopement packages here.
Ready to Elope in Iceland?
Iceland isn’t just a destination—it’s a love story waiting to happen. If you’re ready to ditch tradition, embrace adventure, and create a day that’s truly yours, The Crawfords are here to help.
Contact us today to start planning your dream Iceland elopement, or explore our portfolio for inspiration.
Because your love deserves a backdrop as epic as you are. Let us help you tell your story!