Belgium: A Fairytale Wedding Destination for LGBTQ+ Couples
Picture this: you and your partner, hand in hand, exchanging vows in a medieval castle, a chic rooftop overlooking Brussels, or a dreamy canal-side venue in Bruges. Sounds perfect, right? Well, in Belgium, it’s not just a fantasy—it’s reality.
Belgium has been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ rights for decades. In 2003, it became the second country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, and it continues to be one of the most inclusive and welcoming wedding destinations on the planet.
So, if you’re dreaming of a stress-free, romantic wedding in a country that celebrates love in all its forms, let’s dive into everything you need to know about getting married in Belgium.
How to Legally Get Married in Belgium as an LGBTQ+ Couple
First things first—let’s handle the legal stuff. The good news? Belgium keeps it simple. Unlike some countries that drown couples in endless paperwork (looking at you, Italy!), Belgium makes the process smooth and straightforward.
Who Can Get Married in Belgium?
✅ Same-sex marriage is 100% legal—no special conditions, no extra bureaucracy.
✅ At least one partner must have lived in Belgium for three months OR have a strong connection to the country (e.g., family ties).
✅ Foreign couples can get married in Belgium, but they may need additional paperwork—check with your embassy for specific requirements.
Documents You’ll Need:
📝 Passports or national ID cards
📝 Birth certificates
📝 Proof of residence (for at least one partner)
📝 Certificate of marital status (to confirm you’re legally free to marry)
If you’re a foreign couple, some documents might need to be translated and legalized—but don’t stress, Belgian authorities are quite helpful in guiding you through it.
The Ceremony:
🇧🇪 All marriages in Belgium must include a civil ceremony at the local town hall. This is the legally binding part.
💒 After the civil ceremony, you can have a symbolic or religious wedding anywhere you like—from a Gothic cathedral to a countryside vineyard.
Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Wedding Venues in Belgium
Belgium is packed with stunning wedding venues, whether you want a chic city wedding, a romantic countryside retreat, or a grand fairytale castle.
1. Bruges – A Fairytale Setting
Imagine saying “I do” in a town straight out of a storybook—cobblestone streets, charming canals, and medieval architecture.
🏰 Top venue: Dukes’ Palace Bruges – A former palace turned luxury hotel.
2. Brussels – The Chic Urban Wedding
If you love city vibes, Brussels offers stunning venues, from historical mansions to modern rooftops.
✨ Top venue: Concert Noble – A regal ballroom in the heart of the city.
3. The Ardennes – Nature & Castles
If you dream of a forest wedding or a castle celebration, the Ardennes region is pure magic.
🌲 Top venue: Château de Mirwart – A breathtaking castle in a nature reserve.
4. Ghent – The Hidden Gem
Ghent combines medieval charm with a modern, artsy feel.
🎭 Top venue: The Old Fish Market – A stunning riverside event space.
5. Antwerp – Stylish & Modern
For couples who love fashion, diamonds, and design, Antwerp is the place.
💎 Top venue: Handelsbeurs Antwerpen – A jaw-dropping 16th-century trading hall turned wedding venue.
6. Château de la Hulpe – A Dreamy Fairytale Castle
🏰 Located near Brussels, this stunning château is perfect for a royal wedding.
🌿 More info: Château de la Hulpe
Honeymoon in Belgium? Oh, Yes!
Belgium isn’t just a great place to get married—it’s the perfect honeymoon destination too!
💖 Brussels: Sip champagne under the twinkling lights of the Grand Place.
💖 Bruges: Snuggle up on a dreamy boat ride through the canals.
💖 Antwerp: Shop for diamonds and enjoy world-class cuisine.
💖 The Ardennes: Stay in a cozy cabin and soak up the countryside charm.
And, of course, let’s not forget the chocolate, waffles, and beer—a honeymoon diet we fully support. 🍫🍻
FAQs: Same-Sex Weddings in Belgium
Q: Can non-residents get married in Belgium?
A: Yes! But you’ll need to check with your local embassy to confirm the exact paperwork required.
Q: Do we need witnesses?
A: Yes, two witnesses are required for the civil ceremony.
Q: How far in advance should we plan?
A: You must submit your marriage application at least 14 days before your wedding. But for venues and vendors? Start 6-12 months in advance for the best options.
The Ultimate Wedding Checklist for Belgium
✅ Gather all necessary documents
✅ Choose your wedding venue & book early
✅ File your marriage application at the town hall
✅ Plan your symbolic/religious ceremony (if desired)
✅ Book a photographer (psst… I know a great one 😉)
✅ Celebrate your love in one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world!
Capture Your Love Story with a Photographer Who Gets It
Your wedding isn’t just a day—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime love story. You need a photographer who truly understands you, who captures every raw, emotional, and joy-filled moment. That’s where I come in.
💍 See my latest wedding stories: Your Happy Moments Blog
📸 Choose the perfect photography package: Investment
📩 Let’s talk about your dream wedding: Contact Me
Belgium is ready to celebrate your love. And so am I. Let’s make magic together. 💕
