wedding couple doing a dip kiss in spain during sunset after their wedding

The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding in Spain

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels like an experience, Spain might be exactly what you’re looking for.

With its relaxed rhythm, stunning landscapes and incredible food and wine, this country invites you to celebrate your love in the most soulful way. Whether you picture yourselves barefoot on a beach, dancing in a historic villa courtyard, or dining under the stars surrounded by your favourite people—Spain makes it possible.

But choosing Spain as your wedding destination is just the beginning. As a seasoned wedding photographer, I’ve seen first-hand how complicated organizing a wedding abroad can be. That’s why I’ve created this in-depth guide – to help you navigate the process.

Whether you’re just starting to explore options or already have a location in mind, this guide will walk you through the essentials: the best regions, timing, legal possibilities, trusted wedding planners and practical tips to make the most of your day.

Where to Get Married in Spain: The Most Beautiful Wedding Destinations

So you’ve said yes to Spain—amazing! But now the next question: where exactly will you celebrate?
One of the things that makes Spain such a great choice for a destination wedding is its diversity. From coastal villages to countryside vineyards, and from lively islands to quiet mountain towns—there’s something for every couple, every vibe, every season.

Here are some of my favorite regions to consider:

Andalusia

The soulful heart of southern Spain. Think whitewashed villages, flamenco in the background, golden light filtering through olive trees…
Andalusia is perfect for couples dreaming of a romantic, earthy setting with a touch of magic. Haciendas, fincas, and ancient estates make stunning wedding backdrops here—especially at sunset.

Costa Brava

Rugged cliffs, turquoise coves and endless sea views—Costa Brava is a coastal dream. It’s ideal if you want a mix of nature, charm and laid-back elegance.
Perfect for barefoot ceremonies by the sea, intimate gatherings in hilltop villas, or stylish celebrations tucked away in old stone villages.

Ibiza

Forget the party clichés—Ibiza is wildly romantic, soulful, and stylish in that effortless island way.
Whether you go for a private villa in the hills or a boho beach wedding at sunset, Ibiza has a raw beauty that’s hard to beat. The golden hour here? Unreal.

The Canary Islands

Looking for tropical warmth all year round? Head south to the Canaries.
Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote offer epic scenery: think volcanic landscapes, botanical gardens and golden beaches. Plus, the climate is ideal—even in winter.

La Rioja

Wine country at its finest. Rolling hills, peaceful vineyards, and that golden late-afternoon light that makes everything feel cinematic.
A wedding here feels intimate and refined, and there’s no shortage of incredible wine to toast with.

Barcelona

A city that has it all—modern, historic, buzzing and elegant.
From art-nouveau rooftops and stylish hotels to nearby beaches and iconic cathedrals, Barcelona offers endless variety for couples who want culture, beauty and good vibes all in one.

Mallorca

Charming stone villages, dramatic coastlines and crystal-clear waters—Mallorca is where Mediterranean dreams come true.
You’ll find venues here ranging from rustic fincas to glamorous seaside villas, and the light in the early evening is chef’s kiss.

Valencia

A laid-back coastal city that blends old-world charm with modern design. Valencia is perfect if you want the buzz of a city with the breeze of the sea.
It’s stylish but not overdone, elegant but approachable—a great match for couples who want a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

A wedding couple sitting at the beach after their Tenerife Wedding

Top Wedding Planners in Spain

Planning a destination wedding is exciting—but also full of moving parts. That’s where a good wedding planner becomes your secret superpower. From navigating local suppliers to managing timelines, legalities, and logistics, they make sure your day runs smoothly so you can actually enjoy it.

Here are a few trusted planners I love working with—each with their own style, strengths, and beautiful eye for detail:

Spain4Weddings

Operating across all regions of Spain, Spain4Weddings is a one-stop shop for couples who want it all arranged. From luxury venues and vendor coordination to guest activities and accommodation, they offer complete packages and years of experience. Reliable, professional, and a great fit if you’re planning a larger wedding or multi-day event.

Weddingplanner Rosella 

Rosella Berghuis is a warm, intuitive wedding planner with roots in both Spain and the Netherlands. Having lived in Ibiza and Altea, she knows the most stunning locations by heart. Calm, confident, and fluent in Dutch, English and Spanish, she makes planning feel light and effortless — whether you want to be hands-on or hand it all over. With her strong local network and caring approach, Rosella is the planner couples instantly trust.

Valtueña

UK-based but with a Spanish soul, this team is known for their elegant, highly personalized weddings. They’re experts in crafting meaningful experiences that reflect your personalities and values, and they work all over the country. If you’re looking for a planner who blends creative vision with quiet confidence—Valtueña is it.

Open the Door Events

Planning something eco-conscious or non-traditional? This Andalusia-based team is known for their beautiful, sustainable events that tread lightly on the earth. From locally-sourced decor to zero-waste catering options, they align every detail with your values—and still create a visually stunning day.

The Best Time of Year to Get Married in Spain

One of the biggest perks of choosing Spain for your destination wedding? You’ve got options—season-wise.
Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, Spain offers great weather for weddings almost year-round. But each season brings its own vibe, so think about what fits your vision best.

Spring (April – June)

Lush, colorful, full of promise.
Spring is one of the most popular seasons for a wedding in Spain—and for good reason. The temperatures are mild, nature is in full bloom, and the golden hour light is a photographer’s dream. Perfect for outdoor ceremonies in gardens, vineyards, or coastal spots.

Summer (June – August)

Golden evenings and beachy vibes.
If you’re dreaming of a beach wedding or a festive villa celebration, summer might be your season. Do keep in mind that it can get hot—especially inland—so consider a late afternoon or evening ceremony.
Tip: Northern Spain (like Galicia, Cantabria, or the Basque Country) stays cooler and is stunning in summer.

Autumn (September – October)

Soft light, warm colors, relaxed pace.
Early autumn is chef’s kiss. The crowds are gone, the weather is still gorgeous, and the landscape is rich with warm tones. Think cozy finca weddings, vineyard dinners, or elegant indoor-outdoor celebrations. It’s romantic and serene without feeling sleepy.

Winter (November – February)

Clear skies and intimate settings.
Winter weddings in Spain? Yes, absolutely—especially in the south. Regions like Andalusia and the Canary Islands stay mild and sunny even in the colder months. This season is great if you’re into moodier light, smaller guest lists, and castle or hacienda settings that feel extra magical with a winter touch.

Practical Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding in Spain

Planning a wedding in Spain is exciting—but let’s be real: it’s also a logistical puzzle. Between the dreamy venue, the timing, travel, and making sure guests feel taken care of, there’s a lot to think about. Here are a few essential tips to help you plan with confidence (and joy):

1. Choose the right venue

Yes, you want a beautiful location—but also think about accessibility, guest capacity, and weather flexibility. A great wedding venue in Spain should not only look stunning, but also work with your vision, timeline, and guest needs. Tip: book early. The good ones go fast.

2. Embrace the local rhythm

Spanish weddings often start late and go very late. It’s normal for the ceremony to begin in the evening, followed by a long dinner and dancing into the early hours. Build your timeline with this in mind—and lean into the flow. The golden light and nighttime energy are worth it.

3. Think about guest accommodation

Make it easy for your guests to book a place to stay. Recommend a few options close to the venue in different price ranges, or block rooms at a hotel. Some couples even rent a villa or small hotel for the full wedding party, which adds a lovely, relaxed group vibe.

4. Arrange transport

If your ceremony and reception are in different places—or if you’re in a rural area—consider organizing group transport. Shuttle buses or vans keep things easy (and festive), especially for guests who aren’t used to driving abroad.

5. Plan a few shared moments

A destination wedding is also a mini holiday for your guests. Why not turn it into a full experience? Plan a casual beach day, a wine tasting, or a welcome dinner the night before. It doesn’t need to be fancy—just something to bring everyone together and ease into the celebration.

6. Send your save-the-dates early

The earlier, the better—ideally 8 to 12 months in advance. Guests need time to plan, book flights, and arrange time off. And the earlier they commit, the more likely they are to come.

7. Work with local professionals you trust

Whether it’s your planner, your photographer, or your florist—local experience matters. People who know the area, the venues, and the light can help you avoid stress and make the absolute most of your day. Spain has incredible talent—use it.

Curious what your wedding in Spain could look like through my lens?

Every location, every couple, every celebration has its own rhythm and beauty—and capturing that is what I love most.
If you’re planning your wedding in Spain and looking for someone to document it in an honest, effortless and beautiful way, I’d love to hear from you.
Let’s connect about your wedding in Spain

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