Complete Guide: How To Elope In Greece

Marriage is an adventure; what better way to start that journey than an elopement in Greece, am I right?

Whether you’re a hopeless romantic dreaming of dramatic landscapes or just looking for an intimate oasis, deciding to elope in Greece will have you covered. 

While it’s easy to be swept away in the bliss of the moment, even eloping has its logistics and planning. No need to worry; you have come to the right place.

In this article, we will walk you through all you need to know to ensure you’re ready to elope in Greece. 

Best Places To Elope In Greece 

While Greece’s Mediterranean weather is pretty enjoyable all year round, some of the best times to visit are April to June or September to October.  

While a civil ceremony cannot take place at an archaeological site (prehistoric or historic site) you have numerous venues with jaw-dropping views at your fingertips. 

With so many places to choose from, it can be difficult to make a decision. To make this process an easier one, we have listed out some of the best places to Elope in Greece. 

1. Athens

With luxurious venues, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife, Athens will not disappoint.

As the Capital of Greece and the Heart of Ancient Greece, it is a popular place for both tourists and locals alike. 

With coastal views and historic architecture, Athens offers breathtaking backdrops for your elopement. 

Some beloved destinations within Athens include: 

• Athenian Riviera
• Acropolis View Hotel 

2. The Cyclades

Looking for the epitome of romance? Try a sunset wedding overlooking the mediterranean sea.  

The Cyclades comprises several enchanting islands in the Aegean Sea. Just south of Mainland Greece, each island has a distinct charm, giving you plenty of options to choose from. 

Home to some of Greece’s most important archaeological ruins, it is a history buff’s paradise. 

See what the hype is about in Santorini or go off the grid in Folegandros; no matter your preference, the Cyclades have something to offer everyone. 

If this sounds like the perfect destination for you, we recommend checking out the below islands. 

• Santorini
• Mykonos
• Folegandros
• Kea
• Syros
• Paros
• Sifnos

3. Saronic Islands

If you’re hoping to escape the day-to-day hustle and bustle, Saronic Island is the destination for you. 

You take a step back in time when you enter the island as no cars are allowed. Stroll the island on foot or enjoy a romantic carriage ride.

When you’re ready to explore other parts of Greece, taxi boats are easily accessible. 

Check out these breathtaking destinations within the islands:

• Spetses
• Hydra
• Poros

4. Mainland

Mainland Greece is overflowing with local heritage, culinary specialties, incredible beaches, and vast history. 

Roam the cobbled streets while you soak in the awe-inspiring views. With so much to see and do, you’ll keep yourself entertained long after the ceremony is over. 

Some great locations within Mainland Greece include:

• South Peloponnese
• West coast of Greece
• Lake Doxa
• Nafplio
• Pelion
• Karpenisi

5. Ionian Islands

The Ionian islands or Heptane, are located off of the country’s west coast in the Ionian Sea. 

Along with sublime views, these islands include classical architecture, old fortresses, and medieval castles.

If this doesn’t spark your interest, the rich culinary flavors the islands have to offer might do the trick.

With waterfall hikes and green mountain ranges, this is a great destination for couples that love adventure. 

Some of the best islands to tie the knot include:

• Corfu
• Lefkada
• Zakynthos
• Ithaca
• Kefalonia
• Paxi
• Kythira

6. Dodekanisa

While this is a tourist hotspot, you’ll have no wonder why once you see the rocky landscapes and heart-stopping views. 

If crowds don’t tend to bother you, the island’s Venetian charm will make your elopement all you’ve hoped for and more. 

You can find a wide range of venues on any of the below islands. 

• Kos
• Rhodes
• Crete

7. Sporades Islands

This chain of islands off the east coast of Greece is filled with lush green hills and sapphire blue beaches. 

This is a great destination that can be customizable for all budgets. 

Fun Fact: You may recognize the stunning scenery from the movie Mama Mia as it was filmed here. 

Some of our favorite islands within the Sporades include: 

• Skopelos
• Skiathos

How To Elope In Greece 

Now that we have the location handled it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty details and figure out exactly how to elope in Greece. 

The majority of individuals can plan their dream elopement here without an issue.

You do not need to be a citizen or have residency to become legally married here.

Currently, same-sex marriage is not legal in Greece. 

While eloping in Greece is easily accessible it does require a bit of paperwork. 

Both you are your partner will need a copy of the following documents: 

• A valid passport 
• A birth certificate with the Apostille stamp and official translation. If you are a US citizen, this must be obtained in the US. 
• A decree of absolution of your previous marriage, if applicable. This must-have official translation. 
• An official Apostille with Greek translation. This can be certified by a lawyer, a foreign ministry’s translation department, a certified translator, or the Greek consulate from your home country. 
• Proof of freedom to marry, or affidavit of marriage, notarised, in both English and Greek.
• A copy of the local newspaper where your intent to marry was published. If you or your partner is a Greek citizen, this must be done in a Greek newspaper. 

After you have the proper documentation, both you and your partner should submit separate sets of paperwork to obtain your marriage license. 

If you are a US citizen, your marriage license must be issued by the state you reside in.

Before making any travel plans you should contact the local City/Town Hall where you plan to elope in Greece. 

Once you have received your marriage license you are ready to tie the knot.

You will have six months to have the ceremony officiated, after that the documentation becomes null. 

Civil Vs. Religious Ceremony 

Similar to most countries Greece has two options when it comes to legal ceremonies. You will have your choice between civil or religious. 

If you choose the civil route you will need to present the documents mentioned above to the city hall. The ceremony is often conducted by the mayor at the Town Hall, Mayor’s Office, or pre-approved venue. 

If you are planning to have a religious ceremony, you will want to contact a clergy directly as the requirements can change depending on the church. 

Some of the possible paperwork you may need includes the following: 

• Proof of baptism 
• A certificate of faith 
• Declaration or formal letter with your local churches permission to marry abroad 

For both ceremonies, two witnesses are required. If neither you nor your partner speaks Greek, you will require a translator.

If a witness of your party is fluent in Greek, they can act as the translator. 

One final and important step you need to take is to register your marriage. The marriage is not legal until this part is completed so don’t forget this important step!

This requires submitting a record of your marriage at the Vital Statistics Office in the city where the ceremony was performed.

Both civil and religious marriages will need to be registered within 40 days of the wedding. 

This may vary depending on your country of residency so make sure to check your embassy rules. 

Covid-19 Restrictions 

As of May 1, 2022, Greece has dropped all travel restrictions due to Covid-19. Travelers from all countries and origins can now enter Greece with no particular documentation required. 

This means you do not need to be vaccinated, have proof of recovery, or proof of PCR test upon arrival.

As travel restrictions are still in place for a majority of other countries, this makes Greece an ideal place for both an elopement and honeymoon. 

Greece Elopement Packages 

We know planning any type of wedding can be stressful. Don’t worry, you don’t have to handle the process on your own. 

You can craft the elopement of your dreams with a helping hand. You’ll have your pick of several wedding planners and elopement agencies. 

Gold Weddings Global is one of the many agencies you have to choose from. This family-owned business has been operating for over 30 years with an office based in Santorini Greece. 

The starting price for a simple ceremony is around $600. This includes an approved officiant, vow and ring ceremony, and delivery of the marriage certificate. 

A more inclusive package can be customized to suit your needs. 

This includes offerings such as:

• Wedding budget analysis
• Wedding planner 
• Day-of coordination
• Venu selection
• Event Design 
• Vendor referrals (photographer, food, music, etc.)

Final Thoughts On Eloping In Greece 

With the removal of all covid restrictions and no citizen or residency requirements for marriage, eloping in Greece has become increasingly accessible. 

With its vast history, incredible cuisine, and picturesque landscape, wherever you decide to elope in Greece will be an experience of a lifetime. 

Visiting Greece soon? Read one of the following guides:

• How many days in Athens
• How many days in Mykonos 
• How many days in Santorini