Santorini, with its breathtaking views, iconic white-washed buildings, and romantic sunsets, is a top destination for couples looking to tie the knot in a picturesque and unforgettable setting. This enchanting Greek island offers everything you need for a dream wedding: stunning venues, delicious cuisine, and a serene atmosphere. If you’re considering Santorini for your big day, here’s a guide to help you plan the perfect wedding.

1. Choose the Right Time of Year

Santorini is a popular tourist destination, and its peak season runs from June to September. While these months offer the best weather, they also come with larger crowds and higher prices. For a more intimate experience, consider planning your wedding in the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October. During these times, the weather is still beautiful, but you’ll enjoy a quieter island and more availability at venues.

2. Selecting the Perfect Venue

Santorini offers a variety of stunning venues that cater to different wedding styles and sizes. Here are a few popular options:

• Cliffside Venues: For a quintessential Santorini wedding, consider a venue perched on the cliffs of the caldera. These locations offer panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the island’s famous sunsets. Venues like Le Ciel, Dana Villas, and Rocabella Hotel are known for their breathtaking backdrops.
• Beachfront Venues: If you dream of a beach wedding, Santorini has beautiful black sand beaches like Kamari and Perissa. Some beach clubs and resorts offer private beach spaces for ceremonies and receptions.
• Luxury Villas: For a more private and personalized experience, renting a luxury villa can be a great option. Villas like Canaves Oia Suites and Santorini Gem offer stunning views, luxury accommodations, and the flexibility to customize your wedding day.
• Traditional Chapels: For couples wanting a religious ceremony, Santorini is home to numerous charming chapels. The Chapel of Saint Irini is a popular choice, offering a serene setting with a view of the sea.

3. Hiring a Local Wedding Planner

Planning a wedding in Santorini from afar can be challenging, which is why hiring a local wedding planner is highly recommended. A local planner will have insider knowledge of the best vendors, venues, and legal requirements. They can handle everything from sourcing florists and photographers to organizing the logistics of your big day, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

4. Understanding the Legal Requirements

If you’re planning to legally marry in Santorini, it’s important to understand the Greek legal requirements. You’ll need to gather and translate several documents, including birth certificates, passports, and a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI). It’s recommended to start this process well in advance, as it can take time to gather and authenticate these documents.

For couples who prefer to simplify things, many choose to have a legal wedding in their home country and then have a symbolic ceremony in Santorini. This option allows for more flexibility and less paperwork.

5. Incorporating Greek Traditions

Incorporating local traditions into your Santorini wedding can add a special and authentic touch. Consider including elements like:

• The Koufeta Tradition: Koufeta are sugar-coated almonds traditionally given to guests as wedding favors. The almonds symbolize health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity.
• The Stefana Ceremony: In a Greek Orthodox wedding, the Stefana (wedding crowns) are placed on the bride and groom’s heads, symbolizing their union and the creation of a new family.
• Greek Music and Dancing: Consider hiring a local band to play traditional Greek music during your reception. A lively Greek dance like the Sirtaki can add a fun and festive atmosphere to your celebration.

6. Plan Your Reception

Santorini is known for its delicious cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Greek dishes. Work with your venue or caterer to create a menu that showcases the best of Santorini’s culinary offerings. Consider serving dishes like grilled octopus, moussaka, and a variety of meze (small plates) to give your guests an authentic taste of Greece.

For dessert, a traditional Greek wedding cake or a selection of local pastries like baklava and kataifi can be a sweet way to end the night. And, of course, don’t forget to include local wines and ouzo for a true Greek celebration.

7. Capture the Magic

Santorini’s natural beauty makes it a photographer’s paradise. Make sure to schedule time for photos at some of the island’s most iconic spots, such as the blue-domed churches in Oia, the winding streets of Fira, and the stunning caldera views. A sunset photo session is a must, as Santorini’s sunsets are renowned for their vibrant colors and breathtaking views.

Hiring a local photographer who knows the island well can help you get the most out of your photo sessions, ensuring that every magical moment is captured beautifully.

8. Accommodating Your Guests

When planning a destination wedding, it’s important to consider your guests’ needs. Provide them with a list of recommended accommodations, ranging from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly options. Santorini offers a wide range of accommodations, including boutique hotels, villas, and guesthouses.

Consider organizing a welcome dinner or a post-wedding brunch to give your guests an opportunity to relax and enjoy the island. Providing information about local activities and tours, such as boat trips, wine tastings, or visits to the island’s archaeological sites, can help your guests make the most of their trip.

9. Plan for the Unpredictable

While Santorini offers stunning weather for most of the year, it’s always wise to have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather changes. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or reception, ensure your venue has an indoor or covered option available. This way, you can relax knowing that your day will be perfect, rain or shine.

10. Enjoy Every Moment

Finally, remember to take a moment to soak in the beauty of your surroundings and the joy of your wedding day. Santorini is a magical place, and your wedding there will be a cherished memory for a lifetime. With careful planning and the right team of vendors, your Santorini wedding will be everything you’ve dreamed of and more.

Planning a wedding in Santorini is a journey filled with beauty, culture, and romance. From the stunning venues to the rich traditions and the incredible views, your wedding in this Greek paradise will be nothing short of extraordinary. Happy planning!

Caroline Stiers is a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer, NYC wedding photographer and destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, emotional imagery with an editorial flare.     

Ohio + NYC based destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, editorial imagery.