I Do Abroad's avatar I Do Abroad November 7, 2025

Why 2026 Is the Year of the Destination Wedding

The world is open again, and couples are dreaming bigger than ever. According to wedding-industry data, the number of UK couples marrying overseas is expected to rise by over 25% in 2026. Why? Because a destination wedding offers more than a beautiful venue — it’s an unforgettable shared experience.

Whether you picture a barefoot beach ceremony, a candle-lit Tuscan vineyard, or a mountaintop castle in Scotland, I Do Abroad has you covered.

1. Spain — Sunshine, Style & Sangria

Best for: Beachfront villas and romantic clifftop ceremonies
Best season: May to October
Why it shines: Affordable luxury with year-round sunshine and excellent flight connections. From Mallorca’s coastal fincas to Andalusia’s vineyards, Spain balances romance and value perfectly.

2. Italy — The Classic Romance

Best for: Vineyard and villa weddings with timeless style
Best season: April to June and September to October
Highlights: Tuscany, Lake Como, the Amalfi Coast. Think rolling hills, Prosecco toasts, and Michelin-worthy cuisine. Italy’s civil ceremonies are legally recognised and widely supported by local planners.

3. Mexico — Fiesta Meets Fairytale

Best for: All-inclusive resorts and Caribbean views
Best season: November to April
Why couples love it: Expert hospitality, turquoise waters, and affordable packages that cover everything from flowers to sunset receptions. Top spots: Cancún, Riviera Maya and Tulum.

4. Bali — Spiritual Luxury

Best for: Exotic villas and boho-chic elopements
Best season: May to September
Why go: Lush tropical gardens, Balinese ritual touches, and incredible photography. Ideal for smaller ceremonies with a personal feel.

5. Scotland — Castles and Highland Romance

Best for: Historic venues and moody landscapes
Best season: May to September
Why it’s special: No residency rules for UK couples, dramatic scenery, and cosy castle receptions complete with kilts and ceilidhs.

6. Portugal — Europe’s Hidden Gem

Best for: Ocean views and rustic vineyards
Best season: April to October
Highlights: Lisbon Coast, Algarve, and Douro Valley. Portugal offers competitive pricing and exceptional hospitality for medium-sized weddings.

7. Greece — Islands of Love

Best for: Iconic whitewashed backdrops and sunset ceremonies
Best season: May to October
Why it ranks high: Santorini’s caldera views and Crete’s beachfront venues make Greece a perennial favourite for UK couples.

8. Thailand — Culture and Colour

Best for: Tropical beach resorts and cultural ceremonies
Best season: November to April
Highlights: Koh Samui, Phuket and Chiang Mai. Combine a Buddhist blessing with world-class cuisine and beachfront luxury.

9. Antigua — Caribbean Calm

Best for: Small, intimate weddings and honeymoon extensions
Best season: December to April
Why it’s popular: 365 beaches (yes, one for each day of the year) and simple legal requirements for UK citizens.

10. South Africa — Adventure and Elegance

Best for: Safari settings and vineyard backdrops
Best season: October to March
Unique appeal: Combine a wedding with a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon — think Table Mountain ceremonies and Stellenbosch wine tastings.

Planning Tips for Choosing Your Destination

1. Match the destination to your guest list – Shorter flights mean more attendees.
2. Research legal requirements – I Do Abroad offers a guide for each country.
3. Compare venue types – Use filters for beachfront, castle, or vineyard settings.
4. Consider the weather – Avoid monsoon seasons or peak heat.
5. Book early – Top venues often fill 12–18 months in advance.

Plan with Confidence

Your dream destination wedding starts with I Do Abroad — a curated directory of verified international venues, complete with weather data, flight durations, and legal checklists.

Start exploring venues for 2026 at www.idoabroad.com.