For couples in love, the dream of marrying in a stunning paradise, framed by a fairytale backdrop, is a cherished fantasy. Recently, we’ve witnessed many popular celebrities tying the knot at exotic locations that resonate with glamour, providing us with serious couple goals. While Deepika and Ranveer, as well as Virat and Anushka, selected charming Italian towns like Lake Como and Tuscany for their dream weddings, power couple Nick and Priyanka celebrated their union in the royal city of Jodhpur. If you’re planning to get married around New Year’s but are worried about finding the perfect destination, don’t stress! As the chilly winter sets in, the atmosphere becomes increasingly romantic. With these amazing winter wedding destinations, you can make your dream wedding a reality.
1. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, known as the City of a Hundred Spires, boasts a rich tapestry of cultural and architectural heritage. Its centuries-old buildings stand proudly, whispering tales of a bygone era. The city offers a breathtaking backdrop, from palaces and churches to picturesque gardens and lakes. In winter, Prague transforms into an enchanting wonderland.
Where: One stunning venue for intimate weddings is The Vrtba Garden, a Baroque-style garden nestled on a hillside in the city. Here, flower beds, staircases, and a winter sky create an ideal setting for photos. Imagine a fairytale wedding with a castle view at Hluboka nad Vltavou, where you can enjoy lavish banquets and carriage rides, turning your royal wedding dreams into reality. Another splendid choice is the Troja Chateau, a 17th-century Baroque-style summer residence, renowned for hosting grand and elegant weddings.
Ithaka’s Pro Tip: One of the advantages of Prague is its proximity to other major European honeymoon destinations, making honeymoon planning a breeze.
2. Salzburg, Austria
A historic town rich in culture, Salzburg has been the backdrop for films like The Sound of Music and is the birthplace of musical genius Mozart. Overlooked by the stunning Austrian Alps, this charming city offers countless reasons to be your ideal wedding destination. Dotted with parks, squares, gardens, and fountains, Salzburg exudes the beauty of the Baroque era. For an indoor winter wedding, you can choose from its magnificent castles, ballrooms, or churches. Imagine an unforgettable fairytale wedding replete with horse-drawn carriages, marble halls, and enchanting live music.
Where: The Mirabell Palace, known for its grand architecture and perfectly manicured gardens, is a top choice. If you prefer an outdoor setting, you can say your vows beneath the picturesque Austrian Alps, blanketed in snow.
3. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin offers a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere for a city wedding. Known for its cheerful vibe, the city is ideal for couples seeking a joyous celebration. Think locally sourced food and wine complemented by lively Irish bands to elevate your ceremony. The city is dotted with historic castles, manors, and hotels, all steeped in rich history. For those wanting to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, the lush countryside surrounding Dublin is home to idyllic estates and grand country houses.
Where: Properties like Baberstown Castle, Finnstown Castle Hotel, Palmerstown House Estate, and The Millhouse are popular year-round venues. The ancient stone towers and seaside piers add scenic beauty to your wedding photos.
4. Hua Hin, Thailand
Located along the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin enjoys pleasant weather from November to February, making it an excellent destination for a winter wedding. The area boasts beautiful beaches and endless opportunities for adventure and fun for couples and their guests. Guests will delight in Indian cuisine with a Thai twist, perfectly suited for Indian/Asian weddings. Numerous premium hotels and resorts offer wedding packages for a seamless experience, delivering splendid hospitality at budget-friendly prices.
Where: The Sheraton Hua Hin stands out as a premier venue, renowned for hosting spectacular weddings. Other notable options include Anantara Hua Hin Resort, Putaharasca Hua Hin, and Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa. You can even extend the celebration into a week at a lively bachelor’s party, with options ranging from Bangkok visits to unique Thai boat parties for an electrifying night before your big day.
5. Athens, Greece
What better place to tie the knot than in the land of the Olympians? Athens, a city rich in history and culture, offers a mild winter climate and stunning seaside views—perfect for couples wanting to avoid the harsh winters of other European destinations. Numerous excursions and tours can enhance your wedding experience.
Where: Venues like the ruins of the Temple of Poseidon, the Acropolis, and luxury properties such as Grand Resort Lagonissi—with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea—provide incredible options. After the wedding, you can journey to the beautiful Greek islands, extending your honeymoon with visits to popular spots like Santorini, Corfu, Plaka, and Mykonos.
6. Sapa, Vietnam
Sapa is a visual delight with its misty hilltops stretching far into the horizon. During winter’s coldest months, occasional snowfall adds a magical touch to its landscapes, dusting the rice terraces with a beautiful white layer.
Where: Nestled amidst misty rice terraces are rustic bungalows, cozy homestays, and premium hotels that offer remarkably affordable wedding packages. You can create a unique ceremony in the heart of the Vietnamese countryside. Topas Ecolodge, with its charming country vibes and warm hospitality, is a favored wedding venue. Other popular choices include Bamboo Sapa Hotel, Sapa Jade Hill Resort & Spa, and Aira Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa.
7. Jaipur, India
Renowned for its vibrant colors and unmatched hospitality, Rajasthan has long been a favored destination for culturally rich weddings. The royal ambiance, opulence, and timeless architecture of Jaipur make it an ideal setting for a grand celebration that you’ll never forget.
Where: To host such a magnificent event, Jaipur offers an extensive array of iconic palaces, havelis, villas, and world-class hotels, providing endless options to choose from. Decorated courtyards in Rajput and Mughal styles, luxurious halls, ornate fountains, and grand durbars paint a picture of extravagance. The Jal Mahal Palace, a 300-year-old masterpiece, is perfect for your royal wedding, while the Rambagh Palace, sprawling across 47 acres, is equally elegant, offering various sites for weddings.
Your wedding day is one of the most special moments in your life. What makes it truly special is not just the location, but the person you choose to marry. That said, a beautiful ceremony lays the foundation for a life filled with everyday magic and romance.
