Many couples automatically think of sandy beaches and tropical climates when it comes to destination weddings. However, suppose you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s a little different from the norm. In that case, there are plenty of stunning non-beach destination wedding locations that offer breathtaking settings, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you envision a romantic castle, a scenic mountain backdrop, or a historic cityscape, non-beach destination weddings can be just as magical—if not more so. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most enchanting non-beach destination wedding locations worldwide.
1. Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is one of the most romantic regions in the world and is perfect for non-beach destination weddings. Known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and world-renowned vineyards, Tuscany offers a quintessential Italian experience that’s full of beauty and culture. Imagine saying your vows in a historic villa surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and cypress trees. The golden light, rustic architecture, and delicious local cuisine make Tuscany a dream destination for couples seeking a romantic and elegant wedding.
Why Tuscany is Ideal for Non-Beach Destination Weddings:
Tuscany provides a picturesque setting that blends natural beauty with rich history. Whether you choose a grand estate, a quaint village church, or a vineyard for your ceremony, the region’s timeless charm ensures that your wedding will be filled with romance. Tuscany’s warm climate, stunning landscapes, and incredible food and wine make it a perfect destination for those looking to celebrate their love in an authentic Italian style.
Top Venues in Tuscany:
•Castello di Vincigliata: This medieval castle offers a magical setting with its historic architecture, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of Florence. It’s an ideal venue for a grand and romantic wedding.
•Borgo Santo Pietro: A luxurious estate in the heart of Tuscany, Borgo Santo Pietro offers a serene and elegant setting with beautifully manicured gardens and Michelin-starred dining, perfect for an intimate wedding.
•Villa Medicea di Lilliano: Located just outside Florence, this historic villa combines the charm of the Tuscan countryside with the elegance of Renaissance architecture, offering a stunning backdrop for your wedding day.
2. Scottish Highlands, Scotland
For couples who love rugged landscapes and historic settings, the Scottish Highlands offer one of the most dramatic and enchanting locations for non-beach destination weddings. Known for its breathtaking scenery, ancient castles, and rich history, the Highlands provide a mystical and romantic backdrop for your big day. Whether you choose a grand castle, a cozy country lodge, or an outdoor ceremony surrounded by towering mountains and lochs, a wedding in the Scottish Highlands is sure to be unforgettable.
Why the Scottish Highlands are Perfect for Non-Beach Destination Weddings:
The Scottish Highlands are steeped in history and legend, offering a unique blend of wild natural beauty and cultural richness. The region’s castles and historic estates provide grand and atmospheric settings that are perfect for couples seeking a fairytale wedding. The Highlands’ stunning landscapes—from rolling hills to dramatic cliffs—offer endless opportunities for breathtaking wedding photos. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of a traditional Scottish ceremony or a modern celebration in a historic setting, the Scottish Highlands offer a wedding experience like no other.
Top Venues in the Scottish Highlands:
•Eilean Donan Castle: One of Scotland’s most iconic castles, Eilean Donan is situated on a small island at the meeting point of three sea lochs. The castle’s stunning location and historic charm make it a perfect venue for a romantic and atmospheric wedding.
•Glenapp Castle: This luxurious five-star hotel is set in a 36-acre estate with beautiful gardens and woodlands. Glenapp Castle offers a blend of historic grandeur and modern luxury, making it an ideal choice for an elegant and private wedding.
•Ardanaiseig Hotel: Located on the shores of Loch Awe, this country house hotel offers a picturesque and secluded setting for a wedding. The hotel’s Victorian architecture, stunning gardens, and serene loch views provide a magical backdrop for your big day.
3. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is an exceptional choice for non-beach destination weddings. With its historic temples, serene gardens, and vibrant traditions, Kyoto offers a wedding experience that is both unique and deeply meaningful. Imagine exchanging vows in a centuries-old Shinto shrine or hosting a reception in a traditional Japanese garden surrounded by cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. Kyoto’s blend of ancient culture and modern luxury makes it a captivating destination for couples looking for something truly special.
Why Kyoto is an Amazing Choice for Non-Beach Destination Weddings:
Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and serene beauty provide a tranquil and spiritual atmosphere that is perfect for a wedding. The city’s historic temples and gardens offer a sense of timelessness and tradition, while its luxury hotels and ryokans provide the comforts and elegance needed for a modern celebration. Kyoto is also known for its exquisite cuisine, including kaiseki dining, which can add a unique and unforgettable culinary experience to your wedding. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of a traditional Japanese ceremony or a fusion of cultures, Kyoto offers a wedding experience that is both peaceful and profound.
Top Venues in Kyoto:
•Kiyomizu-dera Temple: One of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, this historic temple offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. A wedding at Kiyomizu-dera is a spiritual and deeply meaningful experience, perfect for couples seeking a traditional Japanese ceremony.
•Shugakuin Imperial Villa: This stunning villa, surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens and beautiful landscapes, offers a serene and luxurious setting for a wedding. The villa’s traditional architecture and tranquil atmosphere create a perfect backdrop for a romantic celebration.
•The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto: This luxury hotel, located along the Kamogawa River, offers a blend of traditional Japanese design and modern elegance. With its stunning views of the river and mountains, The Ritz-Carlton is an ideal venue for a sophisticated and serene wedding.
4. Provence, France
Provence, in the south of France, is a dreamy and romantic region known for its lavender fields, vineyards, and charming villages. For couples seeking a non-beach destination wedding with a touch of rustic elegance, Provence offers the perfect setting. The region’s beautiful countryside, historic chateaux, and warm Mediterranean climate make it an ideal location for a wedding that feels both intimate and grand.
Why Provence is a Top Non-Beach Destination for Weddings:
Provence’s enchanting landscapes and relaxed atmosphere provide a romantic and idyllic backdrop for a wedding. The region’s historic chateaux and country estates offer stunning venues that combine the charm of rural France with the elegance of a grand celebration. Provence is also famous for its culinary traditions, including delicious local wines and fresh, seasonal cuisine, which can add a gourmet touch to your wedding. Whether you’re planning a ceremony in a lavender field, a reception in a vineyard, or a celebration in a picturesque village, Provence offers a wedding experience that is both charming and unforgettable.
Top Venues in Provence:
•Château de Robernier: This beautiful 16th-century chateau, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, offers a fairytale setting for a wedding. The chateau’s elegant interiors and stunning gardens provide a perfect backdrop for a romantic and luxurious celebration.
•Domaine de la Baume: This historic estate, nestled in the heart of Provence, offers a peaceful and secluded setting for a wedding. The estate’s beautiful gardens, picturesque chapel, and elegant reception spaces make it an ideal venue for an intimate and stylish celebration.
•Le Mas des Poiriers: This charming farmhouse, located on a private island in the Rhône River, offers a rustic and romantic setting for a wedding. The farmhouse’s traditional Provençal architecture, lush gardens, and beautiful surroundings create a perfect backdrop for a relaxed and elegant celebration.
5. Aspen, Colorado
For couples who love the mountains and the great outdoors, Aspen, Colorado, is one of the best non-beach destination wedding locations. Known for its stunning mountain scenery, luxury resorts, and vibrant culture, Aspen offers a wedding experience that is both adventurous and elegant. Whether you’re planning a winter wonderland wedding with snow-covered peaks or a summer celebration surrounded by wildflowers, Aspen provides a breathtaking and unique setting for your big day.
Why Aspen is a Fantastic Non-Beach Destination for Weddings:
Aspen’s natural beauty and luxurious amenities make it an ideal destination for couples seeking a wedding that combines adventure with sophistication. The town’s stunning mountain landscapes provide a dramatic backdrop for ceremonies, while its world-class resorts offer elegant venues and exceptional service. Aspen’s vibrant culture, with its art galleries, fine dining, and outdoor activities, also provides plenty of opportunities for guests to enjoy the destination. Whether you’re skiing down the slopes, hiking through wildflower meadows, or simply taking in the views, a wedding in Aspen is sure to be a memorable and breathtaking experience.
Top Venues in Aspen:
•The Little Nell: This luxurious five-star hotel, located at the base of Aspen Mountain, offers stunning views and exceptional service. The Little Nell’s rooftop terrace and elegant ballrooms provide perfect settings for both intimate ceremonies and grand receptions.
•Aspen Meadows Resort: Set on a 40-acre campus with sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen Meadows Resort offers a unique blend of modern design and natural beauty. The resort’s serene setting and versatile event spaces make it an ideal venue for a stylish and unforgettable wedding.
•T-Lazy-7 Ranch: For couples seeking a rustic yet elegant wedding, T-Lazy-7 Ranch offers a picturesque setting with stunning views of the Maroon Bells. The ranch’s rustic charm, combined with its breathtaking mountain backdrop, makes it a perfect venue for a romantic and intimate wedding. Whether you’re planning an outdoor ceremony in a wildflower meadow or a cozy reception in a beautifully decorated barn, T-Lazy-7 Ranch offers a quintessential Colorado experience that your guests will remember for years to come.
6. Vienna, Austria
Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city of imperial grandeur, classical music, and historic charm, making it one of the best non-beach destinations for weddings. Known for its stunning palaces, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural heritage, Vienna offers a wedding setting that is both elegant and timeless. Imagine exchanging vows in a Baroque palace, followed by a reception with world-class cuisine and live classical music in a historic ballroom.
Why Vienna is an Exceptional Non-Beach Destination for Weddings:
Vienna’s blend of history, culture, and romance makes it a perfect destination for couples seeking a wedding with a touch of old-world elegance. The city’s palaces, churches, and historic buildings offer a range of stunning venues, each with its unique charm and grandeur. Vienna’s world-renowned music and art scenes add a cultural depth to your wedding, with opportunities for live performances and beautiful settings inspired by the city’s artistic legacy. From a grand celebration in a palace to an intimate ceremony in a hidden garden, Vienna offers a wedding experience that is both luxurious and steeped in history.
Top Venues in Vienna:
•Schönbrunn Palace: This UNESCO World Heritage site and former imperial summer residence offers a magnificent setting for a wedding. The palace’s grand halls, beautiful gardens, and historic atmosphere provide a breathtaking backdrop for a celebration that exudes royal elegance.
•Belvedere Palace: Another of Vienna’s most famous palaces, the Belvedere offers stunning views of the city and beautifully manicured gardens. The palace’s opulent interiors and artistic heritage make it an ideal venue for a wedding that combines history and luxury.
•Palais Coburg: This luxury hotel, housed in a historic palace, offers an intimate and exclusive setting for a wedding. With its elegant rooms, private gardens, and exceptional service, Palais Coburg provides a perfect blend of modern comfort and historical charm.
7. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, with its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture, is an incredible non-beach destination for weddings. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush vineyards to dramatic cliffs, making it an ideal location for couples seeking a unique and unforgettable wedding.
Why Cape Town is a Top Non-Beach Destination for Weddings:
Cape Town’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage provide endless possibilities for a wedding that is both adventurous and elegant. The city’s vineyards and wine estates offer romantic settings for ceremonies and receptions, while its mountain and garden venues provide breathtaking backdrops for your big day. Cape Town’s culinary scene is world-class, offering gourmet dining experiences that can elevate your wedding celebration. Whether you’re planning a ceremony overlooking the city from Table Mountain, a reception in a historic wine estate, or a celebration surrounded by the natural beauty of Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Town offers a wedding experience that is truly extraordinary.
Top Venues in Cape Town:
•Vineyard Hotel: Set in a beautiful garden estate at the foot of Table Mountain, the Vineyard Hotel offers a serene and luxurious setting for a wedding. The hotel’s elegant venues and stunning views provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic and sophisticated celebration.
•Molenvliet Wine & Guest Estate: Located in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Molenvliet offers a picturesque setting surrounded by vineyards and mountains. The estate’s beautiful gardens and historic architecture create a magical atmosphere for a wedding that combines elegance with natural beauty.
•Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens: Known as one of the most beautiful gardens in the world, Kirstenbosch offers a unique and breathtaking venue for a wedding. The garden’s lush landscapes, diverse flora, and stunning mountain views provide a perfect setting for a celebration that is both peaceful and spectacular.
Conclusion
Non-beach destination weddings offer a world of possibilities for couples seeking unique and unforgettable locations for their big day. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, the serene beauty of Kyoto, and the imperial grandeur of Vienna, these destinations provide stunning backdrops that go beyond the traditional beach wedding. Each location offers its own blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, ensuring that your wedding is not only beautiful but also deeply personal and memorable.
Whether you’re drawn to the romance of a historic European city, the rugged charm of the mountains, or the tranquil elegance of a countryside estate, non-beach destination weddings allow you to celebrate your love in a setting that truly reflects your style and vision. By choosing one of these extraordinary locations, you’ll create a wedding experience that is as unique and special as your love story.
