Skip to content 
Your Guide to LGBTQ PLUS Elopements in Europe
Let’s be honest: choosing where to elope isn’t just about beautiful views (though we all know Europe has plenty of those!). If you’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community, you’re also thinking about safety, acceptance and whether you’ll be able to celebrate your love openly, without second-guessing a single moment.
The good news? Europe is home to some of the most LGBTQ+ friendly elopement locations in the world. And there are countless amazing places to choose from, depending on how you want your perfect day to look like: From dramatic cliffs in the far north to warm Mediterranean beaches and romantic old cities.
And here’s the part where we come in: as your experienced elopement photographer & videographer duo, we help you find the perfect elopement location for you, one that matches your vision and feels safe and affirming. No stress, no guesswork… just a day that feels like pure celebration and where you can feel welcomed, supported, and completely free to be yourselves.
Why Europe is the Perfect Choice for your LGBTQ+ or Same-Sex Elopement
Europe is one of the most welcoming, diverse, and LGBTQ+ friendly regions in the world: from progressive laws to open-minded locals and breathtaking landscapes, it’s a dream setting for your same-sex or queer elopement. Here’s why so many LGBTQ+ couples choose Europe:
- Many of the World’s Most LGBTQ+ Friendly Countries: According to the European LGBTQ+ Equality Index, countries like Iceland, Norway, Spain, Denmark, and Malta rank at the very top, meaning you can expect a warm, inclusive atmosphere almost everywhere you go.
- Same-Sex Marriage is legal in most European Countries: Yes, most of the European Countries have marriage equality and according to recent news, the European Court of Justice has ruled that member states must recognize same-sex marriages lawfully concluded in another member state. EU countries must
LGBTQ+ Friendly Culture & Atmosphere: Majority of Europe embraces queer couples openly, you’ll feel comfortable exploring, dining, and celebrating without hiding.
- LGBTQ+ Friendly Vendors: Photographers, planners, celebrants, hotels – finding queer-friendly vendors in Europe is simple and we always help you choose vendors who will celebrate your love wholeheartedly.
How to find the Perfect Location for your LGBTQ+ Elopement in Europe
If you’re trying to figure out which European country feels right for your LGBTQ+ elopement, there’s one resource we can recommend checking out: the Europe Equality Index by Equaldex.
This index looks at two things that matter when planning an elopement abroad, giving you a clear picture of how safe, supportive and welcoming a country is:
-
Legal protections for LGBTQ+ people
-
Public opinion and social acceptance
According to the Europe Equality Index, the Top 5 most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Europe are:
-
Iceland
-
Norway
-
Spain
-
Denmark
-
Malta
The 8 Best LGBTQ+ Elopement Locations in Europe
Below are some of the most inclusive, breathtaking, and stress-free destinations for LGBTQ+ and same-sex elopement in Europe. Each place is legally supportive, socially welcoming and – of course – offers a stunning backdrop for your elopement:
Iceland
Iceland is perfect for couples who want their elopement to feel like an adventure! Think of waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches and landscapes that look like another planet. And Iceland is also ranked #1 according to the World Equality Index, making it the perfect LGBTQ+ elopement location in Europe if you’re dreaming of stunning backdrops, dramatic landscapes and a big adventure together.
And also you have endless amazing options regarding activities for your elopement day: You can go glacier hiking, visit natural hot springs, ride Icelandic horses, wander black-sand beaches, or take a road trip through volcanic landscapes.
An Iceland elopement sounds just like you? We put together an Iceland Elopement Guide, telling you everything you need to know when planning your elopement in Iceland!
Portugal
Portugal is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in Europe, with welcoming locals and endless sunshine. The Algarve offers dramatic cliffs, while Lisbon and Porto mix charm and color with queer-friendly culture. Portugal is perfect for couples looking for sunshine, warmth, ocean views and a relaxed and romantic energy.
On your elopement day in Portugal you could do a wine tasting tour in Porto, go on a boat tour in Lagos (f.e. at Ponte da Piedade – the famous golden cliffs and rock formations), enjoy a romantic dinner by the sea or maybe even go surfing together. Discover the best places and ideas for your Portugal elopement in this blogpost.
Norway
Ranked #2 according to the World Equality Index is Norway. Norway is the perfect elopement locations for couples that want a calm, private elopement and nature that feels untouched. Think of fjords, forests or endless mountains that create the perfect backdrop for your peaceful ceremony. You could rent a cozy cabin, hike breathtaking mountain trails or go kayaking in the fjords.
Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of the most LGBTQ+-inclusive cities in the world. With canals, bridges, and cozy neighborhoods, it’s perfect for an intimate, relaxed city elopement. If you want a urban, creative atmosphere for your elopement, Amsterdam might be the perfect place. Think of canal boat rides, museum visits, exploring tulip fields or biking through the historic streets.
United Kingdom
The UK offers some of Europe’s most atmospheric landscapes – from Scotland’s Highlands to Cornwall’s rugged coastline. Same-sex marriage is fully legal and people are generally welcoming and inclusive.
And if you want to elope in a city with one of the warmest LGBTQ+ communities in the world, you should definitely consider eloping in Brighton. It’s a place where you can celebrate openly, walk hand in hand without hesitation and feel completely at home. Brighton is known for its diverse and accepting atmosphere, a wide range of queer-run accommodations and businesses and a big dose of queer joy.
Denmark
Denmark was one of the first countries to recognize same-sex partnerships and it still shows. Copenhagen is stylish and inclusive, and the countryside is full of peaceful beaches and charming towns. Denmark also offers a variety of elopement activities, from exploring Copenhagen’s canals, visiting castles to enjoying seaside picnics on the western coast.
Spain
Spain embraces love in all its forms. It is one of the safest and most inclusive countries for LGBTQ+ travelers. Barcelona, Mallorca and the Canary Islands all offer completely different vibes – from vibrant city elopements to quiet volcanic beaches to Mediterranean charm. If you want to dive more into the vibe of eloping in Spain, here is our Canary Island Elopement blogpost and we also have a detailed Mallorca Elopement Guide.
Malta
Malta is small, warm, romantic, and incredibly welcoming and it consistently ranks in the Top 5 LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Europe according to the Equality Index. Malta has some of the strongest LGBTQ+ legal protections in the world, a history of progressive laws, and a genuinely accepting local culture. It’s known globally as a leader in equality.
So, Malta is a place where you can celebrate your love openly, walk through historic streets hand in hand, and feel completely safe doing so. Malta combines golden cliffs, clear turquoise water, ancient cities, and Mediterranean charm, making it an incredible destination for a peaceful, sun-soaked elopement. The best spots for your elopement in Malta are the limestone streets of Valletta, the Blue Lagoon on Comino or Gozo’s cliffs.
Your All-Inclusive LGBTQ+ Welcoming Elopement Packages
In case you haven’t seen it yet, we’re Katja & Walter, an elopement photo & video duo based in Europe. And we’re not only here to capture your day, but to help you craft an unforgettable and stress-free adventure. Our Europe Elopement Packages include everything you need for a day where you feel safe, supported and completely free to be yourselves – from finding the perfect spot for your elopement, helping you plan your day, looking for LGBTQ+ friendly vendors, accommodations and activities:
Storytelling Photography by Katja
- Story-driven photo coverage with no image limits – you get every single moment.
- A preview gallery of up to 100 stunning images within a week to share your exciting news.
- Fun GIFs and breathtaking drone shots of you and your location.
Cinematic Videography by Walter
- A 30-second social media highlight to relive your day right away.
- A cinematic 4K elopement film with licensed music, artistic color grading, and storytelling.
- Full recordings of your vows or ceremony, so you never miss a second.
Planning & Location Scouting
- Custom timelines to make the most of your day – whether that means chasing both golden hours or scheduling a midday nap.
- Handpicked location ideas, local vendor recommendations, and a 100-page Elopement Guide packed with tips.
- All travel costs within Europe included – no hidden fees, just epic memories.
Our Elopement Packages start at €9,200 – reach out to get the full details and let’s start planning your dream elopement in Europe!
FAQ: Same-Sex and LGBTQ+ Elopement in Europe
01 Is Europe safe for LGBTQ+ couples?
Yes, Europe is one of the most welcoming, diverse and LGBTQ+ friendly regions in the world. Same-Sex marriage is legal in most European countries and the majority of Europe embraces queer couples openly. We recommend checking out the Europe Equality Index to find out which countries are the most LGBTQ+ friendly.
02 Can we legally get married in Europe as a same-sex couple?
Yes, in many countries! Iceland, Spain, France, Portugal, the Netherlands, Norway, Austria and more allow LGBTQ+ couples to legally marry. However when you’re a foreign couple, it can get a bit tricky as you need translated and notarized documents in some countries. Many foreign couples therefore choose to do the legal paperwork at home (if possible) and have a symbolic ceremony in Europe instead – it’s simpler, faster and still just as meaningful.
03 Do vendors in Europe support LGBTQ+ couples?
Yes, in the destinations we mentioned and in many other countries in Europe, vendors are used to LGBTQ+ clients and are openly supportive. If you’re eloping with us, we will help you find vendors that are experienced with LGBTQ+ elopements and make sure you’ll feel safe, supported and completely free to be yourselves.
04 What is the best country in Europe for same-sex elopements?
According to the Europe Equality Index, the top 5 LGBTQ+ friendly countries are Iceland, Norway, Spain, Denmark, and Malta.
05 Can we bring family or friends to our LGBTQ+ elopement?
Absolutely! Whether it’s just the two of you or a small group of people that loves and supports you, both are beautiful.
06 Is it safe to show affection in public during our LGBTQ+ elopement?
In LGBTQ+ friendly countries and cities: yes, completely. In rural areas across Europe, attitudes can vary, but we help you choose spots where you’ll feel comfortable and free!
07 Can we have a beach elopement as a same-sex couple?
Yes, of course! A beach elopement for same-sex couples in Europe is a great idea and there are many countries where this is possible: f.e. LGBTQ+ friendly beach elopements are popular in Spain, Portugal, Malta and the Canary Islands.
Your Dream Elopement in Europe is just a Mail away!
If your heart is already racing a little and you’re picturing the two of you in one of these beautiful, LGBTQ+ friendly places… that’s your sign to contact us. You deserve an elopement day where you feel completely safe, fully seen, and wildly in love – and we’re here to make that happen. Reach out to us, we can’t wait to hear from you – let’s create your unforgettable elopement adventure together!
