Imagine standing hand in hand with your love, the Northern Lights dancing above, a glacier shimmering behind you, and a crisp Icelandic breeze carrying your vows into eternity. Sounds like something out of a dream? Well, welcome to Iceland—one of the most breathtaking and LGBTQ+ friendly wedding destinations on the planet.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to tie the knot in an epic setting, this guide will take you through the best same-sex wedding venues in Iceland, along with practical tips to make your big day truly unforgettable.
1. Why Iceland is the Ultimate Destination for Same-Sex Weddings
Iceland isn’t just another pretty place (although, let’s be real, it’s insanely beautiful). It’s also a pioneer in LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex marriage has been legal here since 2010, and the country consistently ranks among the most progressive in the world. Icelanders don’t just tolerate diversity—they celebrate it.
So, whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand wedding bash, you can expect full support, stunning landscapes, and that undeniable sense of freedom that makes Iceland, well… Iceland.
2. Top LGBTQ+ Wedding Venues in Iceland
🏙️ Reykjavík – The Colorful & Urban Choice
If you want a mix of city charm and Icelandic wilderness, Reykjavík is the place. Imagine a ceremony in the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church (or in front of it for an epic backdrop), a cozy boutique hotel wedding, or even exchanging vows on a rooftop with views of the city and the mountains beyond.
✨ Bonus: After the ceremony, celebrate at Kaffibarinn or Kiki Queer Bar—both LGBTQ+ hotspots with an electric vibe.
🌋 Þingvellir National Park – Get Married Between Continents
Want something legendary? How about saying “I do” in a UNESCO World Heritage site, quite literally between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates? Þingvellir’s rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and historical significance make it an unforgettable wedding spot.
🔗 Thingvellir National Park Official Website
❄️ Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – A Fairytale Wedding on Ice
Imagine standing on the shore of a glacier lagoon, with icebergs floating behind you like frozen diamonds. At Jökulsárlón, your wedding photos will look straight out of a fantasy movie. (Also, penguins would totally get married here if they could.)
🔗 Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
💦 Skógafoss Waterfall – A Natural Wedding Altar
Skógafoss isn’t just a waterfall—it’s a jaw-dropping force of nature. The mist often creates rainbows, making it one of the most symbolic locations for same-sex weddings. Because what’s more fitting than a literal rainbow at your wedding?
🖤 Búðir Black Church – Minimalist Elegance in the Wild
This tiny, jet-black wooden church sits in a vast lava field, offering an incredibly cinematic contrast against the dramatic Icelandic landscape. It’s a dream for couples who love a minimalist aesthetic but still want a touch of tradition.
🔗 Hotel Búðir & Black Church
🧊 Diamond Beach – Where Ice Meets Fire
If you want something truly unique, Diamond Beach is the place. The black volcanic sand is scattered with chunks of ice that glisten like jewels. Your wedding photos? Absolute magic.
3. Planning Your Dream Same-Sex Wedding in Iceland
📝 Legal Requirements – Is It Easy to Get Married in Iceland?
Yes! Iceland makes it simple for foreign couples to get legally married. Here’s what you’ll need:
✔️ Passports
✔️ Birth certificates
✔️ Marriage application form
✔️ Proof of marital status
✔️ Two witnesses
You’ll need to submit these at least three weeks in advance to the National Registry of Iceland.
🔗 Official Government Website
📅 Best Time of Year to Get Married in Iceland
Each season offers something different:
- Summer (June–August): Midnight sun, green landscapes, easier access to remote locations.
- Winter (November–February): Northern Lights, snow-covered mountains, cozy vibes.
- Spring/Fall: Best of both worlds—less touristy, stunning golden light.
💰 Wedding Costs – How Much Does It Cost?
A same-sex wedding in Iceland can cost anywhere from €5,000 to €20,000, depending on:
- The venue
- Whether you hire a wedding planner
- Photography & videography
- Reception & catering
If you’re eloping, you can keep things under €5,000 with a small ceremony, permits, and a photographer.
4. How to Capture the Magic – Photography Tips
Iceland is a photographer’s paradise, but it’s also unpredictable!
📷 Golden Hour Magic: Aim for sunrise or sunset for the softest light.
📷 Weather-Proof Outfits: Think stylish but practical—wind-resistant wedding dresses, chic boots, and cozy layers.
📷 Epic Drone Shots: If allowed at your venue, drone photography will take your wedding album to the next level.
Want an experienced photographer who knows the best spots? 😉
🔗 Check out my wedding photography packages here
5. FAQ – Everything You Need to Know
💍 Can non-Icelandic citizens get married in Iceland?
Yes! Just submit the necessary documents in advance.
💨 What happens if the weather is bad?
It’s Iceland—expect the unexpected! Have a backup plan like a cozy indoor venue, or embrace the adventure (trust me, rain and mist look amazing in photos).
🚗 How do we get to remote wedding locations?
Rent a 4×4 car or hire a wedding planner to arrange transport.
💡 Can we have a wedding with just the two of us?
Absolutely! Many couples elope in Iceland for an intimate and magical experience.
6. Make Your Icelandic Wedding Unforgettable
Your wedding day is about love, adventure, and creating unforgettable memories. And what better way to capture it than through breathtaking photography?
As a destination wedding photographer specializing in epic, natural, and love-filled moments, I’d love to be part of your journey. Let’s make your wedding a work of art.
📷 See my portfolio here: Your Happy Moments Blog
📷 Check out my wedding photography packages: Investment Details
📷 Let’s chat! Get in Touch
Ready to say “I do” in one of the most breathtaking places on Earth? Let’s make it happen! 💙
