How to Plan a Wedding Abroad: A Complete Guide to Getting Married in the Mediterranean
Planning a wedding in another country can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to create an unforgettable experience in a dream destination. If you’ve decided to get married in the Mediterranean— somewhere between Valencia, Barcelona or Girona—this article will guide you step by step through everything you need to know. From the best venues and vendors to legal and cultural aspects, I’ll help you make the process smooth and exciting.
Why Choose the Mediterranean as Your Wedding Destination
The Mediterranean coast offers a unique setting for weddings thanks to its warm climate, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. From the Costa Blanca in Valencia with amazing places like Jávea, Altea or Morella, to La Costa Brava in Girona, the north mediterranean coast combine golden beaches, picturesque mountains, and historic architecture, creating the perfect backdrop for any type of celebration.
Climate
The Mediterranean climate is one of the most attractive features of this region. With over 300 sunny days a year, it’s an ideal location for outdoor weddings in any season. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, perfect for romantic ceremonies. Summer offers long days with up to 15 hours of sunlight, ideal for beach weddings or sunset receptions. Even in winter, the temperatures are generally mild compared to other European destinations, allowing for cozy celebrations in historic venues or rustic farmhouses. Rain is infrequent, and the predictability of good weather ensures fewer disruptions to your plans.
2. Gastronomy
Mediterranean cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. Your guests will delight in a feast that could include paellas in Valencia, seafood delicacies along the Costa Brava, or traditional Catalan dishes in Barcelona. The region’s abundant vineyards produce exceptional wines, from the sparkling cavas of Penedès to robust reds from Empordà. Customizable menus cater to diverse dietary preferences, ensuring every guest can enjoy the culinary experience.
3. Culture
The Mediterranean is steeped in history and tradition, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Imagine exchanging vows in a centuries-old castle, celebrating in a stylish seaside villa, or hosting your reception in a vineyard with panoramic views. The local culture emphasizes celebration and hospitality, ensuring your wedding will be infused with warmth and joy. Moreover, the region’s rich artistic heritage—from Gaudí’s iconic architecture in Barcelona to the medieval towns of Girona—provides endless opportunities for breathtaking wedding photography.
Wedding Venues
top 3 wedding venues in Valencia
An 18th century farmhouse, rebuilt respecting tradition and taking advantage of the latest technologies, dedicated to the celebration of unique events. It is located in Ribarroja, opposite the Turia Natural Park, just 18 minutes from the centre of Valencia. For max. 350 guests.
Casa Santonja is a highly significant building built in the 19th century, listed among the 55 most illustrious buildings in the province of Alicante. Its lush gardens with centuries-old trees extend over an area of 20,000 square metres. A special place for your celebration. For max. 230 guests.
In the heart of the Albufera Natural Park, a unique natural space in Europe and just a few kilometres from the city of Valencia, we find the Barraca del Palmar – the barraca is the traditional Valencian construction. A unique venue to enjoy the mediterranean culture. For max. 150 guests.
TOP 3 WEDDING VENUES IN Barcelona
Masía Can Tosca, dating back from the 16th century, is a typical catalan house that was formerly dedicated to agriculture, milling and dairy production. it is well known in the surrounding area and has been declared as "historical heritage of catalonia". Placed in Cabrils, a charming village in the Maresme region, just 23 km from Barcelona and very close to the sea. It can be accessed by the motorway or by the National Highway II, bordering the sea. For max. 110 guests.
Gran Villa Rosa is a spectacular villa near Sitges in Barcelona, 25 minutes from the international Airport of Barcelona. Built in 1460 as a wine castle, Gran Villa Rosa has been restored and renovated with top-shelf luxury amenities, while maintaining an antique and majestic ambiance. With ample alfresco living- and dining areas, superb interiors, 20 bedroom suites, a beautiful chapel, and a stunning event hall, Gran Villa Rosa is the perfect venue for both family and business events. For max. 450 guests.
Masía Egara (Ca n’Amat de la Muntanya), located in Terrassa, 25km north of Barcelona, is a Catalan farmhouse surrounded by 300 hectares of farmland and forest. The house is surrounded by wonderful centuries-old gardens, redesigned by the school of the famous architect Rubió i Tudurí, being one of the best private gardens in Catalonia. For max. 220 guests.
top 3 venues in Girona
Built in the 15th century, Castell de Caramany has been classified as a Cultural Asset of National Interest. Located in the town of Corçà, Castell de Caramany has the privilege of being located in the heart of the Empordà, with easy access from Barcelona and Girona, offering all the facilities to be a meeting point for ceremonies and events. For max. 220 guests.
Can Ribas is a Catalan farmhouse located in the Vall del Tenes, 40 km north of Barcelona, with its own catering and in a privileged setting, it is the perfect place to get married on the Costa Brava. For max. 250 guests.
Mas Torroella is a delightful 14th-century luxury Manor House, located on the northeast coast of Spain. It has been lovingly restored to the highest standard, combining comfort, modern luxurious fittings, and elegant finishing touches with all the charm of a historical building. For max. 200 guests.
Legal Documentation
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Spain
Civil registry
You’ll need to file for a marriage license. Foreign couples should contact the relevant consulate.
Documents Required:
- Passports for both parties.
- Birth certificates, translated and apostilled.
- Certificate of no impediment or divorce decree, if applicable.
- Proof of residence if one of the parties lives in Spain.
Religious Ceremonies
For Catholic weddings, you’ll need to meet additional church requirements.
The third option: Symbolic vs. Legal Ceremonies
Many couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony in Spain and complete the legal marriage process in their home country due to the complexity of the paperwork.
Local Wedding Planners
One of the musts for getting married in an elopement wedding in a foreign country is hiring a wedding planner. Is essential for coordinating all the details from abroad and will give you peace of mind that everything will go well on your wedding day. Here are some recommended professionals:
Valencia
Barcelona
Girona
A wedding planner will also assist you with local vendors and language management, but if you want to take a look at the vendors in each city, here is a short list of the top ones.
Catering
Florists
Digital Tools for Planning from Home
-Task Managers: Trello or Asana to organize vendors and deadlines.
- Virtual Meetings: Zoom or Google Meet to coordinate with your wedding planner and vendors.
- Inspiration Boards: Pinterest for ideas.
- Translation: Apps like DeepL to manage language barriers.
Basic Checklist for a Wedding Abroad
1. Define budget and date.
2. Choose the venue and book the date.
3. Hire a wedding planner.
4. Complete legal documentation.
5. Book guest accommodations.
6. Select vendors: catering, florists, music, etc.
7. Send invitations: Include information about the location and transportation.
8. Coordinate a guest itinerary.
9. Schedule virtual visits and meetings.
10. Confirm all details before the event.
Conclusion
Getting married in the Mediterranean is a choice that combines beauty, culture, and romance. With careful planning and the support of local professionals, you can turn your wedding into an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. From the unique landscapes of the amazing northern mediterranean coast to the exquisite gastronomy and local traditions, this destination offers everything you need for a perfect day.
