Picture this: You’re standing hand in hand with your love, surrounded by Iceland’s raw, breathtaking beauty. The crisp Arctic air fills your lungs, the northern lights swirl above, and somewhere in the distance, a geyser erupts in celebration of your love. If this sounds like your dream wedding, then Reykjavík—the heart of Iceland—is calling your name.
Iceland is a dream destination for adventurous couples, and Reykjavík offers an incredible mix of modern, historic, and nature-inspired wedding venues. Whether you envision an intimate elopement by a serene lake or a grand celebration in a glass palace overlooking the ocean, this guide has you covered. Let’s explore the best wedding venues in Reykjavík and beyond.
1. Harpa Concert Hall – A Wedding With a View
Perfect for: Modern, stylish, and artistic couples
📍 Harpa Concert Hall
Imagine exchanging vows in a glass cathedral that reflects the ever-changing Icelandic sky. Harpa Concert Hall, Reykjavík’s iconic waterfront landmark, is the perfect blend of art, architecture, and elegance. From the intimate Norðurljós Hall to the breathtaking top-floor venue Háaloft, Harpa provides a stunning backdrop for your big day.
✨ Pro Tip: Time your wedding during winter for a chance to have the northern lights as your natural wedding décor.
2. IÐNÓ – A Romantic Venue by the Lake
Perfect for: Vintage charm lovers & history enthusiasts
📍 IÐNÓ
Tucked away by the peaceful Tjörnin Lake, IÐNÓ is a historic wooden building that oozes romance. With its high ceilings, large windows, and warm ambiance, this venue is perfect for couples seeking a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. And let’s not forget the swans gliding on the lake behind you—could your wedding photos be any more magical?
✨ Why We Love It: The wooden ballroom has a fairy-tale charm, and it’s located right in the city center—easy access for guests!
3. Búðir Black Church & Hotel Búðir – A Destination Wedding Worth the Drive
Perfect for: Couples who love dramatic landscapes
📍 Hotel Búðir
A two-hour drive from Reykjavík, this venue is worth every mile. The tiny black church of Búðir, set against a backdrop of lava fields, rugged mountains, and the Atlantic Ocean, is one of the most picturesque wedding locations in Iceland. After the ceremony, head to the luxurious Hotel Búðir for a reception with gourmet Icelandic cuisine and panoramic views.
✨ Why It’s Special: The black church creates a striking contrast in wedding photos, making them look like something out of a movie.
4. The Blue Lagoon – Say ‘I Do’ in a Geothermal Paradise
Perfect for: Adventurous couples who love unique experiences
📍 The Retreat at Blue Lagoon
If you’re looking for an unforgettable wedding venue, why not get married surrounded by milky-blue geothermal waters? The Blue Lagoon offers private areas for ceremonies, as well as luxurious spa experiences for newlyweds. Just imagine celebrating your love while soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters—talk about a stress-free wedding!
✨ Bonus: Your wedding guests will forever thank you for choosing a venue that doubles as a spa day.
5. Hótel Rangá – A Luxurious Escape for Nature Lovers
Perfect for: Couples who want a mix of luxury & wilderness
📍 Hótel Rangá
Located about an hour from Reykjavík, Hótel Rangá is a luxury countryside hotel offering breathtaking views, cozy log cabin vibes, and even a private observatory for stargazing (or catching the northern lights!). If you want to get married under the midnight sun or dance under the aurora borealis, this venue is pure magic.
✨ Why It’s Amazing: You can have an intimate outdoor wedding with Iceland’s vast landscapes as your witness.
6. Hallgrímskirkja Church – A Grand Ceremony in an Iconic Landmark
Perfect for: Traditional & grand weddings
📍 Hallgrímskirkja
If you’ve ever seen a photo of Reykjavík, you’ve seen Hallgrímskirkja—the towering white church that dominates the skyline. This breathtaking Lutheran church is available for wedding ceremonies and offers a majestic, spiritual ambiance. Plus, after the ceremony, you and your guests can take in the best panoramic views of Reykjavík from the top of the tower.
✨ Fun Fact: The church’s design was inspired by Iceland’s basalt lava columns, making it an architectural masterpiece.
What You Need to Know About Getting Married in Iceland
Before you pack your wedding dress and book your flight, here are some key things to consider when planning a wedding in Reykjavík:
1. Legal Requirements for Foreign Couples
- Non-Icelandic couples can legally marry in Iceland, but you’ll need to submit documents (such as birth certificates and certificates of marital status) to the National Registry at least three weeks before the wedding.
- A civil ceremony at the District Commissioner’s office is a straightforward option if you want to keep things simple.
2. Best Time for a Wedding in Reykjavík
- Summer (June-August): Endless daylight, warmer temperatures, and lush landscapes.
- Winter (September-March): Northern lights, fewer tourists, and a cozy atmosphere—but be prepared for cold weather!
3. Should You Hire a Local Photographer?
YES! Iceland’s landscapes are breathtaking, but capturing them in all their glory requires experience with lighting, weather conditions, and the unique challenges of Icelandic scenery. If you want timeless, cinematic wedding photos, book a photographer who specializes in destination weddings in Iceland (psst… like me! 😉).
Final Thoughts – Is Reykjavík Your Perfect Wedding Destination?
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s as unique and adventurous as your love story, Reykjavík is the perfect place. From modern glass halls to dramatic volcanic landscapes, this city offers a venue for every couple. Whether you choose an intimate lakeside ceremony, a geothermal lagoon celebration, or a grand church wedding, your Icelandic wedding will be nothing short of magical.
Let’s Make Your Iceland Wedding Unforgettable!
Planning a destination wedding is exciting—but having the right photographer to capture every breathtaking moment is essential. I specialize in romantic, cinematic wedding photography for couples who want their love story to shine against Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
📸 Explore my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 View my wedding photography packages: Investment Page
📩 Let’s chat & plan your dream wedding: Contact Me
Iceland is waiting—are you ready to say “yes” in one of the world’s most magical places? 💙
