Imagine this: You and your partner, hand in hand, standing in a historic German town hall (Rathaus), about to say Ja! to forever. The air is filled with excitement, maybe a few nervous giggles, and definitely a lot of love. Germany, with its progressive values and breathtaking locations, is one of the best places in Europe for LGBTQ+ couples to tie the knot.
Whether you dream of a romantic castle wedding, an urban chic ceremony in Berlin, or a cozy celebration in a vineyard, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planning a same-sex wedding in Germany—legal requirements, best venues, local traditions, and, of course, where to celebrate in style!
Is Same-Sex Marriage Legal in Germany?
Yes! Love won in Germany in 2017 when the Ehe für alle (“Marriage for All”) law was passed, granting same-sex couples the same marriage rights as heterosexual couples, including joint adoption. So, if you’re looking for a wedding destination where your love is celebrated and protected by law, Germany is an excellent choice.
How to Get Married in Germany as a Same-Sex Couple
Legal Requirements & Documents
If you’re planning to legally marry in Germany, here’s what you’ll need:
✅ Passports or national ID cards
✅ Birth certificates (officially translated if not in German)
✅ Certificate of No Impediment (Ehefähigkeitszeugnis) proving you’re not already married
✅ Proof of residence (if applicable)
✅ If previously married: Divorce decree or death certificate of former spouse
💡 Pro Tip: The paperwork can take weeks (or even months), so start early! If you or your partner are not German residents, check with the local Standesamt (registry office) or your consulate for extra requirements.
📍 Find your local registry office: German Registry Offices Directory
Best LGBTQ+ Wedding Destinations in Germany
🌈 1. Berlin – The LGBTQ+ Capital of Europe
Berlin is vibrant, inclusive, and effortlessly cool. Whether you want a stylish rooftop wedding or an intimate ceremony in a historic Standesamt, Berlin has it all. Plus, it’s home to one of the biggest Pride parades in Europe!
📍 Marriage registration in Berlin: Standesamt Berlin
💡 Best Venues:
- Clärchens Ballhaus – A romantic, vintage ballroom
- Kraftwerk Berlin – Industrial-chic for modern weddings
- Rooftop at Hotel de Rome – Stunning city views for an elegant reception
🏰 2. Bavaria – Get Married in a Fairytale Castle
Want to feel like royalty on your big day? Bavaria is home to some of the most stunning castles in Europe, like the famous Neuschwanstein Castle (aka the real-life Disney castle). Imagine saying your vows in a centuries-old fortress with breathtaking Alpine views!
📍 Civil weddings in Munich: Standesamt München
💡 Best Castles for Weddings:
- Schloss Neuschwanstein – The fairytale dream
- Schloss Nymphenburg – Elegant and grand
- Schloss Hohenschwangau – A romantic lakeside gem
🌊 3. Hamburg – Love by the Water
If you love the idea of a waterfront wedding, Hamburg is your city. The picturesque harbors, canals, and elegant maritime venues create a stunning backdrop for your special day.
📍 Marriage registration in Hamburg: Standesamt Hamburg
💡 Best Venues:
- Altonaer Kaispeicher – A stylish industrial venue by the harbor
- Strandperle Beach Club – A relaxed beach wedding vibe
- Empire Riverside Hotel – Modern elegance with panoramic city views
🎭 4. Cologne – The Most LGBTQ+ Friendly City
Home to one of Europe’s biggest Pride festivals, Cologne is a dream wedding destination for LGBTQ+ couples. The city’s warm and welcoming vibe makes it the perfect place to celebrate love.
📍 Marriage registration in Cologne: Standesamt Köln
💡 Best Venues:
- Flora Köln – A romantic glass conservatory
- Club Volta – Edgy, urban, and full of character
- Wolkenburg – A charming Baroque venue
German Wedding Traditions to Include in Your Ceremony
Want to add some local flair to your wedding? Here are some fun German traditions to consider:
🇩🇪 Baumstamm Sägen (Log-Sawing Ceremony) – After the wedding, couples saw through a log together to symbolize teamwork in marriage. Bonus: It’s a great arm workout!
🇩🇪 Polterabend (Smashing Plates for Good Luck) – Friends and family smash porcelain before the wedding, and the couple cleans it up together—because nothing says romance like teamwork!
🇩🇪 Hochzeitszeitung (Wedding Newspaper) – Your guests can create a newspaper filled with funny stories, photos, and advice for your married life.
How Much Does a Wedding in Germany Cost?
💰 Budget Guide:
- Registry office ceremony: €50–€200
- Venue rental: €2,000–€10,000+
- Wedding planner: €1,500–€5,000
- Photography & videography: €1,500–€5,000
- Catering: €50–€150 per guest
- Total cost estimate: €10,000–€50,000+ depending on scale
💡 Money-Saving Tip: Consider an off-season wedding (November–March) for lower prices and more venue availability!
Why Germany? Because Love Has No Limits Here
Germany is more than just a beautiful country—it’s a place where love is celebrated, no matter who you are. With its LGBTQ+ friendly culture, breathtaking venues, and rich traditions, it’s an unforgettable place to start your forever.
Capture Your Love Story in Germany
Your wedding day is one of the most magical days of your life, and it deserves to be documented beautifully. As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing genuine, emotional, and artistic moments that tell your unique love story. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, I’ll be there to make sure every moment shines.
📸 Explore my wedding stories: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Check out my wedding photography packages: Investment
📩 Let’s plan your dream wedding together: Contact Me
Germany is waiting for you. Your love story deserves to be told beautifully. 💕
