Thinking about saying 'I do!' in the Land of Fire and Ice? From where to get married in Iceland, to honeymoon retreats in Iceland, we have everything you need to get started on planning this exciting next chapter of your life. If the idea of rugged landscapes, dramatic scenery, and serene nature sends shivers down your spine, Iceland may be the match for you.
Planning Your Wedding in Iceland
Following the marriage laws in Iceland is an easy process for foreigners. Each member of the wedding party must be at least 18 years of age and provide a short list of documents (see below) to the Reykjavik district commissioner two weeks prior to the wedding ceremony. After the ceremony, an official wedding certificate from the national registry can be obtained.
Documentation
When planning your wedding in Iceland, be sure to study the international regulations for exchanging vows in a foreign land. The spouses-to-be must be at least 18 years of age and provide a short list of documents (see below) to the Reykjavik district commissioner two weeks prior to the wedding ceremony. After the ceremony, an official wedding certificate from the national registry can be obtained.
- Marriage notification
- Birth certificates
- Certificate of marital status
- A divorce decree (if either party is divorced)
- Proof of legal stay in Iceland - residence permit, visa or confirmation of arrival date (passport stamp or flight ticket)
- If bride/groom is a widower, a document detailing that the estate of the deceased has been divided/finalized
- Valid passports of both parties
Officiants
Iceland welcomes all religions to celebrate the civil union between two people. As long as your officiant is licensed in Iceland to perform your ceremony, your marriage will be recognized internationally.
Same Sex Marriage
Iceland has a thriving LGBTQ and gay community. Iceland has been performing same sex weddings since it was legalized in 2010.
Wedding Venue Ideas: Iceland Edition
When the landscape is this dreamy, it’s only appropriate to let your imagination run as wild as these surroundings when it comes to your Iceland wedding venue. If you're wondering what your options are, think beyond the conventional. When you have your choice of caves, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers, the idea of exchanging vows in a regular building with four walls may seem leiðinlegur (that's Icelandic for boring.) Like any outdoor wedding, the weather may not always cooperate, so consider a covered or sheltered alternative just in case.
By the Hjalparfoss Waterfalls
One of several waterfalls in the Þjórsádalur Valley, the Hjalparfoss is a unique double waterfall surrounded by lava fields. It’s as scenic and as Icelandic as it gets.
On the Black Sands of Reynisfjara Beach
One of the top ten most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world, the dramatic Reynisfjara Beach gets its black sand from the cooled lava that washes ashore from the ocean. Along the black sand and stone are volcanic rock basalt columns, phenomenal hexagonal shape stacks of stone joined together as the lava cooled, piercing straight up into the sky.
In an Icelandic Church
One of the most iconic churches in Iceland is the Búðir, a little wooden chapel that blends into the rugged surroundings with its black exterior. On the opposite end of the size spectrum is the Hallgrímskirkja, Iceland’s tallest church which fits more than 750 people.
Inside the Langjökull Glacier
The second largest ice cap in Iceland, the Langjokull glacier is a cool 500-metre long chunk of ice with a little wedding chapel built inside of it. You can get married in a piece of ice. With that being said, temperatures average about -2C, so be sure to pack (formal) thermal-wear.
Romantic Things to Do in Iceland
One look around at the stunning scenery in Iceland will make your heart beat a little faster.
Rent a car and road trip the Golden Circle. It's one of Iceland's main sightseeing routes for several good reasons. Here you'll have your chance to see almost everything with your partner that makes Iceland a unique destination to visit, including geysers, waterfalls, and volcanoes.
Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, is a rich cultural centre steeped in Nordic history. For the culture vulture couples, Reykjavik will surely intrigue. Visit the Perlan Museum, sample authentic Icelandic cuisine, and visit the Hallgrímskirkja church which can be seen from almost anywhere in the city.
For a more relaxing romantic adventure, a stop at the Blue Lagoon is a must. This soothing geothermal hot spring is the perfect way to unwind after a long flight. The water in the lagoon is usually between 37C and 40C and naturally contains a mineral called silica which is known to heal the skin.
Northern Lights Honeymoon Deals
While there’s no guarantee that the Northern Lights will put on a show at any granted moment, the chances of seeing these magnetic polar splashes of colour do their thing are definitely better at some times of the year than others. The Northern Lights are generally more visible between September and April, but the best chances of seeing them are between November and February, during the longest nights of the year. The worst time to try and view the Northern Lights is between May and August, when this region of the Arctic Circle experiences 24-hour days of constant sunlight, also known as the Midnight Sun. Let our Expert Travellers help you plan the best Northern Lights honeymoon deal. Our tailor made holidays are customized to you and our organized Europe tour packages take care of just about everything else for you.
Ready to start planning your dream wedding or honeymoon in Iceland?
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