Why Season Matters More Than You Think
When planning a destination wedding, timing is everything. The right month means blue skies, golden light, and comfortable guests — while the wrong one can mean humidity, rain, or extreme heat.
Choosing your date based on climate, cost, and crowd levels can make all the difference. Here’s your complete guide to the best seasons to say “I Do” around the world in 2026.
Europe — Spring Romance & Summer Sun
Best months: April to October
Destinations: Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal, France
– April–June: Blooming countryside, mild temperatures, and lower costs before peak season. Perfect for vineyards and countryside villas.
– July–August: Warm and bright, ideal for beach weddings — but book early to avoid the tourist rush.
– September–October: Golden light, harvest festivals, and reduced prices. Arguably Europe’s most romantic window.
Tip: Early autumn in Tuscany or the Algarve offers picture-perfect weather and fewer crowds.
The Caribbean — Winter Sun & Laid-Back Luxury
Best months: December to April
Destinations: Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, Jamaica, Mexico (Caribbean side)
– Blue skies, gentle breezes, and calm seas — perfect for beachfront ceremonies.
– Avoid June–November (hurricane season).
– Resorts often offer “winter wedding” packages that include the ceremony, coordinator, and honeymoon suite.
Best for: Couples wanting guaranteed sunshine when it’s cold back home.
Asia — Exotic Landscapes and Cultural Charm
Best months: November to April
Destinations: Thailand, Bali, Vietnam, Sri Lanka
– Thailand: Dry and sunny along the west coast (Phuket, Krabi) from November–April.
– Bali: Peak wedding months are May–September with lush greenery and little rain.
– Vietnam: March–May for mild temperatures and clear skies.
Tip: Avoid local festival weeks or national holidays when travel and venue costs rise.
Africa — Adventure Meets Elegance
Best months: October to March
Destinations: South Africa, Kenya, Morocco
– South Africa: Summer season (Oct–Mar) brings warm evenings and vineyard beauty.
– Kenya: Great weather for safari weddings from June–September.
– Morocco: Spring and autumn offer cooler desert temperatures and vivid colours.
Best for: Couples who want a wedding that doubles as an adventure or wildlife experience.
Pacific & Indian Ocean — Paradise Perfected
Best months: May to October
Destinations: Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Fiji
– Crystal-clear seas, light breezes, and plenty of sunshine.
– Avoid November–April when tropical storms can occur.
– These destinations offer secluded resorts ideal for elopements or micro-weddings.
Tip: Combine a small legal ceremony at home with a symbolic beach blessing for stress-free planning.
Off-Peak Weddings: The Smart Saver’s Secret
Travelling just a few weeks outside peak season can save thousands — and many venues include upgrades for off-season bookings.
– Fewer crowds mean more flexible venue availability.
– Lower accommodation and flight prices.
– Softer, more flattering light for photography.
Example: A May wedding in Santorini can cost 30% less than one in July, with near-identical weather.
Month-by-Month Snapshot
January – Caribbean, Mexico, South Africa | Warm weather and low rainfall
February – Antigua, Thailand, Maldives | Great for Valentine’s weddings
March – Italy (south), Vietnam, Kenya | Early spring blooms
April – Portugal, Greece, Bali | Shoulder season savings
May – Spain, Italy, Bali | Ideal weather, early summer
June – France, Greece, Thailand | Start of peak season
July – Spain, Italy, Scotland | Hot but festive atmosphere
August – Mediterranean islands | Peak season — book early
September – Tuscany, Algarve, Bali | Warm, golden, quieter
October – Greece, South Africa, Mauritius | Perfect transition season
November – Thailand, Mexico, Kenya | Dry and calm in tropics
December – Caribbean, Dubai, Maldives | Best for winter sun weddings
Plan Around the Perfect Season
Whether you dream of a Mediterranean vineyard in May, a Caribbean beach in January, or a Balinese villa in August, I Do Abroad helps you plan it seamlessly.
Our venue listings include weather charts, seasonal tips, and best-month suggestions for every destination.
Find your perfect time and place to say “I Do” at www.idoabroad.com.