If you’re dreaming about getting married in Iceland, choosing the right place is such a big part of the experience. Whether you want something dramatic and wild or quiet and personal, there are so many incredible Iceland elopement locations that feel like they were made for this kind of day.
I’ve put together this list of my favorite places I’ve photographed couples in — from the famous ones that everyone knows to some smaller spots that feel a bit more private. These are all places I can help you plan for, depending on what kind of day you’re imagining.
You can also check out my complete elopement guide! This guide has everything from travel recommendations to legal requirements for getting married in Iceland.
Note: Most of these are possible to visit year-round, but some are better in certain seasons. I’ve added my thoughts on when each one works best based on my experience.
The Best Places to Elope in Iceland
1. Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi
These two waterfalls are right next to each other and give you completely different feels.
Seljalandsfoss is one of the most well-known waterfalls in Iceland — and what makes it special is that you can actually walk behind it. It’s a popular spot, but if you go early in the morning or later in the evening, it can feel surprisingly quiet.
Just a short walk away is Gljúfrabúi, which is kind of hidden behind a cliff. You have to step through a narrow opening to get to it, and it’s always such a fun surprise for couples. It’s smaller and more private, and the sound in there makes everything feel extra intense in the best way.
Visiting these waterfalls – you won’t come out of it completely dry!
Best time to elope: May–September.
Both are easiest to access in summer and early fall. The path behind Seljalandsfoss can be slippery in colder months.
2. Skógafoss
Powerful, moody, and timeless. Skógafoss is one of those places that just feels grand.
You’ll hear it before you see it — the rush of water dropping 60 meters straight down creates a mist that often catches the light, forming rainbows in the air. It’s the kind of place where a kiss feels like it belongs in a movie.
There’s also a trail that climbs up beside the falls for sweeping views over the coastline and the highlands beyond. Whether you stay at the base or hike a bit higher, it’s one of the most versatile and dramatic spots for a ceremony or portraits.
The lupine field in front of Skogafoss looks so dreamy in the summer, take a look for yourself!
Best time to elope: May through September.
It’s accessible year-round, but summer gives you those epic rainbows and less slippery paths. Winter elopements are possible but require more caution. But with the right gear, clothing and crampons – we can do anything any time!
3. Kvernufoss
This one is just around the corner from Skógafoss, but way fewer people go there — and that’s what makes it special.
It’s a short walk through a little valley, and suddenly you’re there. You can also walk behind this one if you’re up for it. It’s a peaceful spot and one of my favorites for couples who want something quieter and more tucked away without needing to drive far.
Best time to elope: Late spring to early fall (May–October).
The trail can be slippery or snow-covered in winter, so warmer months are safer and easier for access. But when it is cold outside, the base of the waterfall does get icy and it looks pretty cool, so definitely doable during winter months as well.
4. Hrunalaug Hot Springs
This little hot spring feels like something out of a dream. It’s located on private land and has a small changing hut and a few pools surrounded by grassy hills. It’s perfect if you want a super relaxed, cozy vibe — maybe even hop in after your ceremony or for some fun candid photos.
It’s also one of the more accessible hot springs (no long hike) but still feels very local and peaceful. Just be respectful of the space, since it’s not a touristy spot.
Best time to elope: Spring through early autumn (May–October).
It’s open year-round. Summer and fall are easiest and most comfortable for changing outside.
5. Sólheimajökull Glacier
If you want your elopement to feel like a real adventure, this glacier is such a cool option (literally). You can walk right up to the edge, or even book a short glacier hike with a guide for photos on the ice. The textures, the colors, and the wide open space make it such a unique setting.
It’s also really close to other great South Coast locations, so it works well as part of a full-day elopement.
Take a look at this real elopement story! They had such a beautiful and private ceremony in front of the glacier and that was just a start to the day.
Best time to elope: Any time of year.
Glaciers are always changing, but they’re accessible year-round with proper gear or a guide. Summer has longer daylight and easier roads but winter brings cooler colours on the glacier – more white & blue.
6. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Probably one of the most famous spots in Iceland — and for good reason. The black sand, the sea stacks, the dramatic cliffs… it looks like something from another world. The cave here also makes a great spot to hide from the wind or add variety to your photos.
It can be very windy and the waves are strong, so safety is really important here. But with some planning (and timing it outside the busiest hours), it’s an unforgettable place for a ceremony or portraits.
Best time to elope: April–September.
It’s open year-round, but summer has the best light and more predictable weather. Avoid the middle of the day to skip the crowds.
7. Vestrahorn
This place is unreal. The mountain rises straight up from the sand, and when the tide is right, you get amazing reflections in the wet beach. It’s one of the most photogenic spots in Iceland — wild, moody, and quiet. It’s also on private land, so you’ll need to pay a small entry fee, but it’s totally worth it.
The area around Vestrahorn is super open, which gives a big feeling of space and freedom — it’s perfect for couples who want something dramatic and peaceful.
Best time to elope: All year.
It’s beautiful in every season, though snow in winter can make the road a bit tricky. Sunrise or sunset light here is especially magical.
8. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
This is where huge icebergs float slowly through the lagoon on their way to the sea. It’s quiet, surreal, and really peaceful. You can even walk to Diamond Beach just across the road, where pieces of ice wash up on the black sand. It’s one of those places that makes you feel like you’re part of something much bigger.
Even though it’s popular with tourists, it’s such a large space that you can usually find a more private area nearby.
Best time to elope: May–October.
It’s beautiful year-round, but summer and early fall are best for access and calmer weather. Winter can be windy and cold, but still possible with the right prep.
9. Svinafellsjökull
This glacier feels like something straight out of a fantasy movie. The sharp ice ridges, blue tones, and quiet atmosphere make it one of the most unique places I’ve photographed. It’s less crowded than some of the other glacier spots and has a peaceful kind of stillness to it.
There’s a short path that takes you right up to a viewpoint, and the textures in the ice look completely different depending on the light and time of year.
Best time to elope: March–November.
In summer and early fall, the path is clear and safe. In winter, road conditions can make it hard to access, but still doable!
10. Arnarstapi
A charming little coastal village with incredible rock formations and cliffs. This area is great for couples who want ocean views, interesting landscapes, and a quiet setting away from the usual South Coast spots. There are beautiful walking paths along the cliffs, and even a little arch-shaped rock formation by the sea.
It’s a great mix of cozy and dramatic — perfect for laid-back elopements with a coastal vibe.
Best time to elope: All year.
The weather is more reliable in the summer months, and the walking paths are clearer, but can be also so magical if it’s a sunny winter morning.
11. Kirkjufellsfoss
This is one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains, and for good reason. The mountain has a perfect shape, and the small waterfalls in front of it make an incredible frame. It’s really easy to get to, and the view changes completely depending on the season — you might get green grass, snow-covered peaks, or even the Northern Lights.
If you love that classic Iceland look, this one’s for you.
Best time to elope: All year.
Each season has something special to offer. Winter can be amazing for Northern Lights photos, and summer brings those long, glowy days with greenery and moody mountain tops.
12. Þakgil
Þakgil (also written Thakgil) is one of those places that feels completely tucked away in the mountains. The road to get there is bumpy, but once you arrive, it’s peaceful, green, and surrounded by dramatic cliffs. There’s even a small cave used as a picnic shelter that’s perfect for a break or some cozy photos.
It’s great for couples who want something totally off the beaten path without needing to hike for hours.
Best time to elope: Late June to early September.
The road is only open in summer, and even then, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended, but not necessary.
13. Gígjagjá (Yoda Cave)
Yes — it really does look like Yoda! This cave is inside a large rock formation near the black sand beaches of the south coast. It’s a fun little spot that’s super unique and easy to reach. The light coming into the cave can be beautiful for photos, and it adds a playful, unexpected moment to your day. The surrounding area is beautiful and can be great for photos. Summer brings a lot of blooming lupines to the area!
It’s a great add-on if you’re already exploring the area around Vík.
Best time to elope: May–October.
You can visit year-round, but it’s easier to get to (and more comfortable to stand around) in the warmer months.
14. Stjórnarfoss
This small but beautiful waterfall is right in the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur and often missed by travelers passing through. It’s rounded and gentle, with green hills surrounding it in summer. It’s easy to access and usually quiet — a great option if you want something simple and lovely without a lot of planning.
You can combine it with other south coast spots or make it your own peaceful ceremony spot.
Best time to elope: May–September.
Everything is more lush and green in summer, and the access is easy.
15. Múlagljúfur Canyon
This one’s a bit of a hike — but it’s so worth it. The trail leads up to a view over a dramatic canyon with waterfalls, steep cliffs, and glacier rivers. It’s one of the most breathtaking views in Iceland and still feels like a hidden gem.
If you and your partner love hiking and want something quiet and seriously impressive, this is it.
You can also see photos from this real elopement to the canyon. From hiking to vows in the most incredible location.
Best time to elope: Late June to early September.
The trail is safest and easiest in summer. It’s not maintained in winter, so it’s not recommended outside the warmer months.
16. Gjá Valley (Gjáin)
Gjáin is a lush green valley in the Þjórsárdalur area with small waterfalls, rivers, and lava rock formations. It almost feels like a fairytale scene. It’s peaceful and has a lot of little paths and spots to explore — perfect for relaxed portraits or a quiet ceremony surrounded by nature.
Best time to elope: June to September.
The valley is most accessible and beautiful in summer when the vegetation is at its peak.
17. Dynjandi
If you’re heading to the Westfjords, Dynjandi is the must-see waterfall there — and honestly, one of the most impressive in the whole country. It looks like a giant bridal veil and flows down the cliff in wide layers. The area is remote, so it’s ideal for couples who want a true adventure and don’t mind the longer travel time.
Best time to elope: July–early September.
The Westfjords are only easily accessible in summer. Outside of that, the roads can be closed or very difficult.
18. Háifoss
One of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, Háifoss drops into a huge canyon and feels super dramatic. It’s not the easiest drive — you’ll need a 4×4 to get there — but once you arrive, the view is unreal. There’s also another smaller waterfall right next to it, and the whole area feels very untouched and peaceful.
Best time to elope: June to early September.
You need good road conditions and daylight for this one, so it’s best saved for the height of summer.
19. Nauthúsagil
This hidden ravine is one of Iceland’s most unique little adventures. The path follows a stream through a narrow gorge, with moss-covered walls on both sides and a waterfall waiting at the end. You’ll need to step carefully on rocks and tree roots (and probably get your feet a little wet), but it’s totally worth it.
It’s one of those places where everything feels quiet and still — like you’ve stumbled into a secret place.
Best time to elope: June to September.
The path is safest in summer when the water level is lower and it’s easier to walk inside the gorge.
20. Búðir Black Church
This little black church on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula has become one of the most iconic elopement spots in Iceland — and for good reason. It’s simple, beautiful, and surrounded by lava fields, mountains, and sea views. The contrast between the dark church and the soft Icelandic landscape makes it such a stunning place for a ceremony or portraits.
Even though it’s well-known, it still feels peaceful — especially if you time it for a quiet part of the day or season.
Best time to elope: All year.
It’s accessible in every season. Summer offers wildflowers and green grass; winter gives it a quiet, dramatic feel with snow and soft light.
Which One Feels Like You?
Every one of these places has something special about it — whether it’s a quiet little canyon, a powerful waterfall, or a mountain that just takes your breath away. Some couples come to Iceland knowing exactly where they want to elope, and some just know the feeling they’re looking for — and that’s more than enough.
Iceland’s weather can shift quickly, especially in the highlands or near glaciers—make sure to check the official Icelandic weather forecast before heading out.
If one (or a few) of these places stood out to you, I’d love to help you figure out how to make it happen.
I’ve photographed couples in all of these locations and know what to expect with weather, timing, and how to make sure your day feels relaxed and easy.
⛰ Want more planning help? Start with my How to Elope in Iceland Guide
⛰ Ready to chat about your day? Get in touch here
Let’s create something beautiful — and totally true to you.
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