Wedding season is officially here, with thousands of Brits preparing to tie the knot in 2025. Many are choosing to escape the UK for a destination wedding. Recent data suggest that a fifth of weddings (21%) now take place abroad (Condor Ferries).
Further data from Google Trends shows that searches for “destination wedding” have reached an all-time high this year, with over 420,000 searches in the last 30 days alone.
With that in mind, Iglu Cruise have used Google Trends data to discover which destinations are the most popular for a destination wedding – uncovering the most popular spots for unforgettable, picture-perfect celebrations abroad.
The team at Iglu Cruise researched every country in Europe for a destination wedding, with the following countries having the highest number of searches in the last 30 days. They also looked into several different factors, such as average temperatures in summer (July), top wedding locations in each country and the best time of year for a wedding.
1. Italy
Top locations: Lake Como, Tuscany, Amalfi Coast
Italy is a top choice for a destination wedding thanks to its stylish reputation and varied scenery – from lakeside villas on Lake Como, to rolling vineyards in Tuscany, to dramatic cliffs along the Amalfi Coast. The diverse landscape, combined with Italy’s rich history and vibrant culture, creates the perfect backdrop for couples seeking both beauty and romance.
Italy’s cinematic allure is equally strong, having inspired unforgettable wedding scenes in iconic films such as The Godfather (1972) and Letters to Juliet (2010), which capture the country’s romantic spirit and beautiful countryside. It’s also a popular destination for celebrities tying the knot, having hosted a plethora of weddings for the rich and famous. George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin notoriously got married in Venice in 2014, while Kourtney Kardashian also chose Italy as a wedding destination.
For those planning their big day, Iglu recommends May and September for the ideal balance of mild weather, availability and atmosphere. Adding to its charm, Italy holds the world record for UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 59 in total, ensuring weddings here are steeped in rich history and timeless beauty.
Google searches: 21,000 | Average July Temp: 29°C
Celeb weddings in Italy: George Clooney & Amal Alamuddin, Chrissy Teigen & John Legend, Kourtney Kardashian & Travis Barker, Rebel Wilson & Ramona Agruma
Iglu Cruise recommends time to wed: May or September
2. Spain
Top locations: Mallorca, Seville, Barcelona
Spain’s vibrant culture and sunny climate make it one of Europe’s most sought-after wedding destinations. Whether it’s the historic charm of Seville with its flamenco rhythms and stunning architecture, or the Mediterranean allure of Mallorca and Barcelona, couples can expect lively celebrations filled with rich traditions and warm hospitality.
Spring and early autumn are ideal times to tie the knot, offering a perfect balance of pleasant weather and venue availability. Adding a fun cultural touch, Spain holds the distinction of having more bars per person than any other country in the European Union – perfect for couples and guests looking to extend the celebration well into the night.
Google searches: 11,000 | Average July Temp: 32°C
Celeb weddings in Spain: Rafa Nadal & Maria Francisca Perello, James Blunt & Sofia Wellesley, Gemma Arterton & Stefano Catelli
Iglu Cruise recommends time to wed: May, June, September
3. Ireland
Top locations: County Clare, Dublin and surroundings, County Kerry
Ireland offers a magical setting for weddings, where lush green landscapes, historic castles and warm hospitality come together to create unforgettable moments. Whether couples choose a summer celebration amidst the rolling countryside or a cosy winter wedding in vibrant cities like Dublin or Cork, Ireland’s charm and welcoming spirit shine through.
The country’s cinematic beauty has also made it a beloved backdrop for romantic comedies and classic films like P.S. I Love You (2007) and Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994) adding a touch of movie magic to real-life celebrations. Though known as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes,” Ireland boasts over 12,000 lakes, making its scenery and wedding backdrops truly enchanting.
Google searches: 11,000 | Average July Temp: 17°C
Celeb weddings in Ireland: Victoria & David Beckham, Pierce Brosnan & Keely Shaye Smith, Paul McCartney & Heather Mills
Iglu Cruise recommends time to wed: May-July, or November-February for a cosy winter wedding
4. France
Top locations: Provence, Paris, French Riviera
France is effortlessly romantic, offering dreamy settings for every wedding style, be it a Parisian château, a lavender field in Provence or a sun-drenched terrace on the Riviera. With its elegant scenery, world-famous cuisine, and signature style, it’s no wonder France continues to attract celebrities, couples, and filmmakers from around the globe.
Recent shows like Emily in Paris Season 3 (2022) have spotlighted the country’s chic charm, inspiring modern love stories against classic French backdrops. Spring and early summer are ideal for weddings, with blooming gardens, mild weather and golden light perfect for photos. And fittingly, France holds the title of the world’s most visited country – a testament to its universal allure.
Google searches: 8,000 | Average July Temp: 25°C
Celeb weddings in France: Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie, Keira Knightley & James Righton, John Travolta & Kelly Preston
Iglu Cruise recommends time to wed: May-June & September
5. Greece
Top locations: Mykonos, Santorini, Crete
Greece offers postcard-perfect views, timeless charm, and that unmistakable blue-and-white aesthetic that makes wedding photos unforgettable. From dramatic cliffside ceremonies in Santorini to chic beach celebrations in Mykonos, Greece caters to both luxurious and laid-back wedding styles with effortless elegance.
Its cinematic appeal is well established – films like My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002) and Mamma Mia! (2008) have brought the country’s warmth and beauty to the big screen, capturing the joy and spirit of Greek celebrations. For the best experience, couples are advised to plan for May/June or September/October, when the weather is warm, but the summer crowds have thinned.
Google searches: 6,000 | Average July Temp: 32°C
Celeb weddings in Greece: Mary Katrantzou & Marios Mavroudis, Giannis Antetokounmpo & Mariah Riddlesprigger, Ana Beatriz Barros & Karim El Chiaty, Binky Felstead & Max Frederik Darnton
Iglu Cruise recommends time to wed: May-June and September-October
6. Cyprus
Top locations: Paphos, Limassol, Protaras
Cyprus is a radiant gem in the Med, offering couples golden beaches, ancient ruins and quaint coastal towns. The small island in southeast Europe is also rich in culture, making it a great destination for those looking to combine romance with history.
One of Cyprus’s greatest advantages is its extended wedding season, thanks to its enviable climate. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s one of the sunniest places in Europe, making outdoor ceremonies and al fresco celebrations possible well beyond the typical summer months. From the medieval charm of Paphos to the cosmopolitan vibe of Limassol, and the romantic seclusion of hidden coves and villages, couples are spoilt for choice.
Whether you’re dreaming of a traditional ceremony or a barefoot beach wedding, Cyprus is as versatile as it is beautiful, making it a top-tier choice for couples seeking sunshine, culture and unforgettable scenery.
Google searches: 3,000 | Average July Temp: 33°C
Celeb weddings in Cyprus: Paul Hollywood & Melissa Spalding, Christina Solomou & Pambos Kairinos, Evridiki & Giorgos Theofanous
Iglu Cruise recommends time to wed: Late April-early June and September-October
7. Portugal
Top locations: Algarve, Cascais & Estoril, Porto
Portugal combines historic charm, dramatic coastlines and an effortlessly relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for weddings that balance elegance with ease. From sunset beach ceremonies in the Algarve to intimate city weddings among the tiled streets and wine cellars of Porto, Portugal caters to a wide range of wedding styles, always with a touch of authenticity and charm.
Portugal’s landscapes are incredibly diverse, from the rolling vineyards of the Douro Valley to the cliff-framed beaches of the south. Add in centuries-old castles, boutique hotels and stylish quintas and Portugal becomes the perfect canvas for everything from lavish celebrations to intimate, low-key affairs. The country’s warm hospitality, delicious cuisine and budget-friendly luxury are all part of its growing appeal among international couples.
For those drawn to places with deep roots, Portugal is Europe’s oldest country with the same defined borders, dating back to 1139. That enduring sense of history brings added meaning to modern love stories, turning every wedding here into something truly timeless.
Google searches: 2,000 | Average July Temp: 28°C
Celeb weddings in Portugal: Jeff Brazier and Kate Dwyer, Mary Healy and Nicole Fowley, Denise Welch & Lincoln Townley
Iglu Cruise recommends time to wed: May-June or September-October
8. Turkey
Top locations: Antalya, Bodrum, Cappadocia
Turkey offers a truly unique setting for a destination wedding, blending sun-soaked beaches, ancient history, and vibrant culture into one unforgettable experience. From the golden shores of Antalya to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where couples can exchange vows at sunrise beneath a sky filled with hot-air balloons, Turkey delivers a sense of magic and grandeur that’s hard to match.
What sets Turkey apart is its distinctiveness, east-meets-west character. As the only country that spans both Europe and Asia, it offers a cultural richness and diversity unlike anywhere else. Whether couples are drawn to the elegant architecture of Istanbul, the rustic charm of coastal villages, or the dramatic desert backdrops of central Anatolia, the country effortlessly accommodates both opulent and minimalist celebrations.
Its deep-rooted traditions, vibrant hospitality, and world-renowned cuisine add warmth and depth to every wedding. From Ottoman-style palaces to contemporary seaside resorts, Turkey provides a stunning variety of venues that reflect its fusion of old and new, making it an inspired choice for couples who want their celebration to feel both grounded in history and alive with energy.
Google searches: 1,000 | Average July Temp: 32°C
Celeb weddings in Turkey: Mesut Ozil & Amine Gulse, Kate Wright & Rio Ferdinand, Peter Cincotti & Zeynep Onaran
Iglu Cruise recommends time to wed: May-June and September
9. Malta
Top locations: Mdina & Rabat, Valletta, Gozo Island
Malta is a hidden gem for destination weddings, combining dramatic coastal views, honey-stone architecture, and Mediterranean charm. From clifftop chapels to grand Baroque venues in Valletta, the island offers a unique blend of intimacy and impact, ideal for couples who want their big day to feel both personal and awe-inspiring.
Its cinematic scenery has made Malta a favourite filming location, with memorable wedding scenes Game of Thrones (2011) royal wedding bringing its ancient beauty to the screen. With over 7,000 years of history packed into a compact island, Malta boasts one of the highest densities of historic sites in the world, offering a sense of depth and character that turns every celebration into something truly special.
Google searches: 1,000 | Average July Temp: 31°C
Celeb weddings in Malta: Brigitte Nielsen & Mattia Dessi, Ben Camille & Kristina, Michelle & Luca Cencini
Iglu Cruise recommends time to wed: April-June
10. Croatia
Top locations: Dubrovnik, Hvar, Istria
Croatia offers a dreamy mix of Adriatic coastline, ancient cities and understated elegance – perfect for couples dreaming of a destination wedding with both style and soul. Whether it’s a fairytale ceremony in Dubrovnik’s walled old town or a chic island celebration in Hvar, Croatia delivers cinematic beauty and timeless charm in equal measure.
Its unique blend of history and natural splendour has made it a rising star for weddings, with terracotta rooftops, crystal-clear waters, and sun-dappled squares creating postcard-worthy moments at every turn. Dubrovnik, in particular, is a standout, boasting one of the world’s best-preserved medieval old towns, encircled by walls that date back to the 13th century – a setting as grand as the love stories it now hosts.
Google searches: 500 | Average July Temp: 28°C
Celeb weddings in Croatia: Liam Stewart & Nicole Artukovich, Alistair Overeem & Sophie, Jonathan Nolan & Burn Gorman
Iglu Cruise recommends time to wed: July-August
Whether you dream of saying “I do” during a fiery sunset in Santorini or beneath the stars in a French château, Europe offers no shortage of breathtaking wedding destinations. And for those craving something truly unique, why not take the plunge at sea? A wedding aboard a ship lets you combine celebration and travel in one unforgettable voyage – proving that the perfect wedding isn’t just about the destination, but the journey too.
