The Best Places to Elope In Spain by an Elopement Photographer in Spain
The Best Places in Spain to Elope; A City by City Guide To Elopements in Spain
For How to Elope to Spain Visit This Page
As an elopement photographer in Spain, I have had the opportunity to travel much of the country. Between flights, trains, and tens of thousands of miles of driving across Spain I feel well-placed to help guide you across this, my adopted country.
For many when they think of Spain they think of Barcelona, Madrid, beaches, Sangria, Flamenco, and Toros. Whilst this is all true and these are incredible locations and culturally iconic, there is so much more to explore and enjoy. I will start with the major cities to elope in Spain and share some other locations that are truly worth some thought.
Barcelona
An elopement in Barcelona exudes romance. Captivating architecture, charming streets, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The perfect backdrop for an intimate city elopement. From the iconic Sagrada Familia to the historic Gothic Quarter, Barcelona offers a rich tapestry of culture and history, providing endless opportunities for unique and memorable city elopement in Barcelona.
Consider the secluded beaches just outside of the city or views from a scenic hill overlooking the city, Barcelona offers a variety of stunning locations for your elopement ceremony and photoshoot.
Indulge in the culinary delights of Catalonia with a romantic dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurants, or traditional tapas and wines, adding a touch of gastronomy excellence to your elopement.
Barcelona has a well-connected airport and is easily accessible for intercontinental couples and their guests (if you are having any), making it an accessible destination for eloping couples from around the world.
Endless activities from exploring Gaudi's masterpieces to strolling along La Rambla, Barcelona offers a wealth of activities for couples to enjoy before and after their elopement, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Also, consider nearby Sitges.
Madrid
Spain's vibrant capital city, Madrid, offers a blend of historic landmarks, beautiful parks, and bustling plazas. Couples can elope at iconic sites such as the Royal Palace, Retiro Park, or the historic Plaza Mayor, followed by a romantic carriage ride through the city streets. Spain is considered one of the most accepting and tolerant countries in the world. Madrid has a large LGBTQ+ community and is proud to be considered one of Europe’s most gay-friendly cities (along with Barcelona). Eloping to Madrid is a great option for those seeking culinary excellence, great options for activities, and a thriving arts scene. I would recommend Spring or Autumn time for the best weather. Summers are very hot and tend to be popular with tourists.
Seville
One of my most enquired about cities. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Seville is a romantic and enchanting city that offers countless picturesque spots for elopements. From the historic Alcázar Palace, the Cathedral & Giralda through to the charming streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood, Seville is brimming with romance and beauty. Eloping in Seville would be one of my most highly recommended city locations in all of Spain
Read My Guide to Eloping in Seville, and be sure to view my galleries of couples who have wed or eloped to Seville too.
San Sebastian & Bilbao
San Sebastian is often recognised as the foodie capital of the world. This immodest claim is backed up by the Basque Country having the highest density of Michelin Star restaurants in the world. However, there is so much more than just food. These coastal towns in Northern Spain boast stunning natural surroundings, nestled in the Basque Country, a place of picturesque landscapes, rugged coastlines, and lush greenery. Whether you choose to exchange vows on a secluded beach overlooking the Bay of Biscay or amidst the rolling hills of the Basque countryside, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty that provides the perfect backdrop for your elopement.
These quieter towns offer an evergreen alternative to Spain’s major cities. I have photographed weddings in San Sebastian and it offers an incredible location that hasn’t yet been over-exploited. An ideal place for an elopement with the infrastructure to handle small and large weddings.
Granada
The first time I drove to Granada, I couldn’t believe how this ancient city in the mountains could be so close to the beaches of Malaga. It is a different world and home to my favourite Spanish historical building; the iconic Alhambra Palace. Granada is a captivating city steeped in history and charm. And an elopement in Granada can capture every bit of that. Couples can exchange vows amidst the lush gardens and Moorish architecture of the Alhambra, with the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains as a breathtaking backdrop.
Ronda - Small town elegance with jaw-dropping views
As an elopement photographer, Ronda presents a stunning backdrop for intimate celebrations. Perched dramatically atop a gorge overlooking the Andalusian countryside, Ronda is a picturesque town with a romantic ambiance. Here are a few concise reasons why couples should consider eloping to Ronda.
The beautiful Andalucian town of Ronda's dramatic landscapes, including its iconic Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the Tajo Gorge, provide breathtaking backdrops for romantic ceremonies and stunning photographs.
With its historic bullring, Moorish architecture, and winding cobblestone streets, Ronda offers a timeless and picturesque setting for couples seeking a romantic escape. Ronda's small-town charm and relaxed ambiance create an intimate and private environment for couples to exchange vows and create cherished memories together.
Ronda escapes the hustle of larger cities and allows a more secluded and romantic elopement experience in Ronda, where you can focus on each other and savor the magic of the moment.
Eloping to Marbella and Malaga
Often considered locations for weddings rather than elopements due to the world-class accommodation, great infrastructure, nearby major airport, amazing restaurants, and a historical affinity with celebrities; Marbella and Malaga can offer a lot for an elopement or even a couples shoot in Marbella either before or after your elopement.
One of my favourite elopement experiences in Marbella came from joining a couple who rented a yacht from Puente Romano and took off for an afternoon of sailing and privately catered sushi. Having exchanged their private vows in Seville the day before they decided to hit one of Spain’s most opulent cities and take to the seas.
An Elopement in Tarifa, Cadiz
A wind-swept coastal town with long beaches, bohemian eateries, and some truly alternative locations. Nearby sand dunes and beaches have wild cows and horses roaming them in the Spring and Autumn. Eloping to Tarifa is often seen as a more bohemian location for an elopement in Spain.
Balearic Island Elopements: Spain’s Balearic Islands offer some of Spain’s most beautiful towns and natural settings along with some of the clearest waters and most beautiful beaches in Europe. They vary greatly in personality and size but each offer something special for an elopement.
Elope to Mallorca
Mallorca, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, with rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. Couples can elope on secluded beaches, amidst olive groves and vineyards, or at historic estates with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. I drive over to Mallorca most years, for a holiday. This island holds a special place in my heart. It has endless Mediterranean charm mixed with island escapism and waters that look as though you have set foot in the Maldives.
An Elopement in Ibiza
Famous for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, Ibiza also offers a serene and romantic side perfect for elopements. Couples can exchange vows on secluded beaches, amidst lush pine forests, or at picturesque hilltop chapels with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
An Elopement in Formentera
Formentera is a smaller and beautifully wild island. It’s nothing short of stunning. The boat over from Ibiza looks toy-sized in comparison to those that travel the mainland & Mallorca/Menorca. Arguably the prettiest of these idyllic islands.
Eloping to Menorca
Menorca has a slower charm than its larger sibling Mallorca. It’s an easy island hop between the two islands. It’s quieter even in high season allowing a more secluded or laid-back elopement, although in my experience so much of the feel of a day is down to the couple and how they plan their day to be.
Eloping to Tenerife, Gran Canaria & Lanzarote - Elopments in The Canary Islands
As an elopement photographer in Spain, I have the experience to help couples elope within this Spanish archipelago. I believe that the Canary Islands offer a lot of room for creative ideas, planning, and imagery. The Canary Islands have warm winters and milder summers than most of the Spanish mainland and Balearic Islands. It is a popular destination year-round, especially during the winter months. From the volcanic landscapes of Tenerife to the golden sands of Gran Canaria and the secluded coves of Lanzarote, the Canary Islands present an array of stunning backdrops.
Eloping in Tenerife; the imposing silhouette of Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, casts an impressive silhouette across the island, creating a mystical atmosphere perfect for elopements steeped in adventure and wonder. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of fiery orange and soft pink, you could exchange vows amidst the rugged beauty of the lunar-like terrain.
In Gran Canaria, the rolling sand dunes of Maspalomas provide a dreamy setting for intimate ceremonies, where the gentle rustle of palm trees and the distant melody of crashing waves serve as witnesses to promises made in the heart of paradise. Elopements in the Canary Islands are not just about escaping the ordinary; they're about embracing the extraordinary beauty of love surrounded by incredible rugged beauty.
Other Places in Mainland Spain to Consider Eloping
Cordoba: Elope to Cordoba, where the ancient streets of the Old Town and the stunning architecture of the Mezquita offer an intimate backdrop, blending history and romance seamlessly for unforgettable elopement photos.
Elope to Cabo de Gata and Desierto de Tabernas: The rugged beauty of Cabo de Gata and the wild landscapes of Desierto de Tabernas; dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and unique desert scenery create an adventurous and breathtaking setting for an elopement. This area of Almeria is wild, underdeveloped, and less busy than most of Andalucia. The Desierto de Tabernas is Europe’s only desert
Valencia: Vibrant culture and enchanting scenery. Often overlooked for other cities, Valencia, has charming streets, stunning architecture, and picturesque coastline.
Girona: Elope to Girona for medieval streets, ancient walls, and picturesque landscapes of the surrounding countryside. Often overlooked due to being close to Barcelona.
Galicia: Lush green landscapes, rugged coastlines, and charming villages, providing a serene and enchanting setting for an elopement photo shoot that reflects the natural wonder and tranquility of your love. Its weather is more consistent with Northern Europe but I have always been enamored with the charm of it. Most of the weddings I have photographed there have been relaxed with an emphasis on the local produce and wholesome values. It’s a truly underrated location for international couples where you will experience Spain of bygone years in the most positive way. I’m back there this summer and look forward to it.
Alicante: Elope to Alicante for sun-drenched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cityscape. I love the mountains and small towns located not far from the city itself.
Near to Spain and Elopement Options Worth Considering:
Eloping to Portugal
Easily accessible from Spain via road and air or as a destination before or after eloping, Southern Portugal’s Algarve offers some stunning options and some of Iberia’s finest and most rugged coasts being exposed to the Atlantic rather than the milder Mediterranean Sea.
I have photographed intimate weddings and elopements in Portugal. Lisbon and Porto are the two main cities and ones I have had the pleasure of visiting and working in. Lisbon is a personal favourite of mine and would be one of the places in Portugal I would highly recommend eloping to.
Eloping to Morocco
From where I am sat I can be in Marrakesh in just over an hour. An incredible gem of a city I am re-visiting later this year and one worth considering for a Moroccan elopement that is on the doorstep of Europe. The ease with which you can travel from the Mediterranean to Morocco is incredible, you can take a car over to Tangiers from Spain in little over an hour multiple times a day via ferry.
Morocco and Marrakesh have become popular with weddings and elopements in recent years. Instagramable cities, incredible architecture, casbahs, and deserts make for a romantic setting for any elopement or wedding. Tangiers, Casablanca, Fes are lesser-known cities but still worth a visit. Essaouira and Agadir are also worth considering for an elopement as is Chefchaoen known for being the blue city. More couples are looking to elope in the Moroccan deserts; Agafay and Merzouga being amongst the most well-known. Many of my couples visit Morocco after eloping in Spain.