How to Elope in Germany in 2026/2027
Your Germany elopement guide with the best locations, packages, tips and more
The land of castles, alpine lakes, moody forests and gorgeous mountains. Wrongfully overseen by many, Germany is one heck of a place to elope in. It’s also the country I get to call home and I’d love to show it to you.
So, can see yourself in front of these amazing landscapes, but are still left wondering how to elope in Germany? Well then, with everything you need to know, this Germany elopement guide is for you.
Hey, it’s Nico – Your Local Germany Elopement Photographer & Planner
Usually, my work takes me all across Europe. But thankfully, at the same time, the beauty right in front of my doorstep here in Germany is just as pretty and also just as great of a fit for amazing elopement experiences.
And I’m not only here to photograph and capture yours for you.
From scouting the best locations to planning your perfect elopement timeline, with over a decade of experience, I also co-plan your entire adventure. Learn more about what I do for you right here.
To start, though, this guide gives you all the tips and tricks on how to elope in Germany and a better idea of what to expect.
Want to get inspired first?
Check out this sunrise elopement in Germany or how to elope in Berlin
Why should you elope in Germany?
Well, for starters, because it has so many different landscapes to offer. Literally, from epic chalk cliffs to moody, fairy-like forests, romantic vineyards and gigantic mountains, here, you’ll find it all. I’ll get to my favorite locations further down below.
Also, did you know Germany has well over 20.000 castles, palaces and fortresses? Pretty crazy, actually.
It’s also a place that dramatically changes between seasons and offers a totally different experience depending on the time of year. Again, more on that in a minute.
Germany also comes with some of the prettiest cities you’ve ever seen, lot’s of fascinating history and a wide range of traditions and culture.
Most couples turn their elopement into their honeymoon and make a longer trip out of it. Due to its central location in Europe and how easy it is to get around, eloping in Germany allows you to easily visit other amazing countries during your trip, too.
Can foreigners legally marry in Germany?
Well, yes, technically, you can legally marry in Germany, even as foreigners.
HOWEVER, as I’ve also explained in my guide on how to elope in Berlin, I cannot recommend this to anyone who isn’t a German resident.
Unfortunately, as almost always in Germany, the entire process requires lots of paperwork, takes months and is quite tiresome.
The list of required documents is long and depending on the registry office, might even need to be fully translated and certified. Foreign nationals also often need to present all documents in person, months before their actual wedding date.
Additionally, it’s pretty intransparent whether or not you’d also need a proof of residency, or at least proof of 21 days of continuous residence in Germany. This also depends on the registry office.
To summarize, and you’ve probably guessed it by now: Don’t do this. Instead, when eloping in Germany, plan a symbolic ceremony and take care of the legal part in your home country.
Why is choosing a symbolic ceremony in Germany better?
It’s pretty simple, really – because it makes the whole process of figuring out how to elope in Germany so, so much easier.
Your ceremony can suddenly be pretty much anywhere (legal ones usually have to be in a registry office), and unless you want one, you don’t even need an officiant anymore.
You can share heartfelt vows, exchange your rings, and have this intimate, personal moment all to yourself. And without any of the paperwork.
This does not make your elopement day any less meaningful or significant. In my opinion, it’s the opposite because getting married isn’t about signing some random paper anyway.
Instead, it’s about two people in love, vowing to dedicate their lives to one another. And this definitely shouldn’t come with annoying legal proceedings and dealing with foreign marriage laws, don’t you think?
Is Germany safe for LGBTQ+ couples?
Yes, Germany is absolutely safe for LGBTQIA+ couples 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️. Same-sex marriage, or “marriage for all”, has been fully legalized in 2017.
Germany also consistently ranks in the most queer-friendly countries in Europe. Especially cities like Berlin, Cologne, or Hamburg have vibrant, safe communities.
This changes slightly in the southern countryside, as well as in some eastern states / cities, though, that tend to be more right-leaning and conservative.
Still, it’s nothing to be worried about. Especially in nature, Germans are friendly, welcoming, and surprisingly heartfelt, so you’ll be safe.
The best Elopement locations in Germany
Of course, I’ll share my favorite spots and secrets with you. However, here are a few great choices for both ceremony locations and photo locations in Germany:
Dense, untouched forests, deep valleys and impressive peaks – the Black Forest (in German: “Schwarzwald”) National Park really packs a punch.
Beautiful hiking trails lead through woodlands where “leaving nature to nature” is the park’s main objective. It’s wild, full of life and a gem for any nature enthusiast.
Pro tip: In addition to sturdy shoes, make sure to also bring something to protect you from wind and rain. The weather in this region can be a bit more unpredictable.
Privacy: High. Hiking is only allowed on the designated trails, but since there are so many, and the park is huge, it’s easy to avoid any crowds. Especially before noon.
In central Germany, you’ll find the Harz, a region full of ancient myths, witchcraft legends and rugged mountains. Being only a 1h drive away from where I grew up, I know this area especially well.
It’s moody, mystical and similar to the Black Forest, an area where nature is allowed to remain untouched. Which is also why it has changed quite drastically over the past few years. Spruce monocultures have been dying off, making space for a new, more resistant forest.
Pro tip: Pay a visit to Werningerode, a charming little town with beautiful alleys in the Harz mountains.
Privacy: High. Visitor numbers have been declining and year round, it’s very easy to find seclusion and privacy off the beaten paths.
No, Saxon Switzerland (in German: “Sächsische Schweiz”) is not actually in Switzerland. Instead, it’s one of Europe’s most spectacular natural landscapes, located in the east of Germany, right at the border to the Czech Republic.
It’s a rugged scenery of ancient origin, made of stunning sandstone mountains and enormous rock formations.
Pro tip: The entire area has a very robust transportation network, so you won’t really need a rental car. When booking accommodation nearby, you often get a guest card anyway, allowing you to access public transport for free.
Privacy: Moderate. Saxon Switzerland is quite popular, but for good reason. Choosing an off-season date, or one outside of any school holidays, is key here.
Germany’s largest island, all the way in the north-east. It’s famous for its dramatic chalk cliffs, located in the small Jasmund National Park. Sandy beaches, tiny fishing villages and ancient beech forests round off this amazing place in nature.
Pro tip: 3-4 days on the island are usually enough. It’s not too big and with most places being easily accessible, you won’t need much extra time.
Privacy: Moderate. The beautiful beaches attract lots of visitors during summer, so this is another location where an off-season date allows for a much better experience.
As a local, I’m obviously biased, but Berlin is truly amazing. There’s no other place in Germany with such a rich history (good and bad, duh) and so much culture. It’s also hands-down one of the best places to find incredible food from all over the world.
With lots of water, greenery and pretty neighborhoods with beautiful old town-houses, this vibrant city has tons of things for you to do and see.
Pro tip: Driving a car in Berlin is awful. Thankfully, the public transport system is great and reliable, allowing you to easily get around.
Privacy: Low. As expected for a city of this size (3.8 million residents). However, Berliners (similar to New Yorkers) are famous for not caring about what’s going on around them and will simply let you be.
Even with more than 20.000 castles in Germany, this one stands out. Unscathed by any war, this fairytale castle comes with over 900 years of history and is still owned by the same family.
But mainly, it’s the actual location that makes Castle Eltz so incredible. It sits amidst a dense forest, deep in a stunning valley.
Pro tip: There’re multiple hiking trails leading to the castle. However, from the main car park, it’s only a easy, 800m / 2.600ft walk.
Privacy: Low. Not exaggerating, but for photos, you either come here on a weekday at sunrise, or you don’t come at all. But it is more than worth the early alarm, I promise.
Sanssouci Palace (French, pronounced “sahn-so-see”) and the surrounding park, just about an hour outside Berlin, is a dream for photos or a Bridgerton-style elopement.
While the main palace itself already looks incredible, the entire park is unmatched in its design and architecture. It comes with tons of equally beautiful buildings as well as enchanting gardens, fountains and sculptures.
Pro tip: The park is a perfect day-visit if you’re staying in Berlin and is easily accessible by train.
Privacy: High. Don’t get me wrong, this place can be busy. But it’s such a vast area, we won’t have any problem finding you some privacy.
The best Elopement locations in Bavaria and the German alps
I’ve felt like this deserves its own section, since the beautiful alps are probably the main reason people come to visit Germany.
The kind of place that looks like it requires a 4-hour hike to reach, while actually being accessible with just a 5-10 minute walk. The beautiful Hintersee, located in the Berchtesgaden National Park, has an incredible mountain backdrop and soft, dreamy light, especially early in the morning.
Checking out the nearby “Zauberwald” (English: “Magic Forest”) is the perfect addition to a walk around the lake. And yes, it actually deserves its name.
Pro tip: You can rent a small wooden rowboat at the western side of the lake.
Privacy: Moderate. This is yet another place well worth a shorter night of sleep. It’s absolutely magical at sunrise and you’ll have the entire lake to yourself.
With its crystal-clear water and beautiful little islands, the Eibsee, at the foot of Germany’s tallest mountain the Zugspitze, looks absolutely unreal. There are a few great spots along the northern shore that are perfect for photos.
Also, taking the cable car up to the summit of the Zugspitze is highly recommended and offers some incredible views. It’s actually worth the outrageous price of around 70 Euro per person.
Pro tip: Since the cable car to the Zugspitze doesn’t open until around 8:30 am (depending on the season), you can easily check out the lake first.
Privacy: Low. *sigh* Notice a pattern? At least during high-season, almost all of these places are rather busy and therefore best visited early in the morning.
At the long, narrow Königssee, the ride across the lake is definitely more than part of the experience. A quiet electric boat takes you along insanely steep cliff walls and to yet another lake. After getting off the boat, the small Obersee is just a short hike away.
Truth be told, this place is extremely popular. So either come early and as soon as the first boat departs, or choose a hike (with some pretty cool viewpoints) above the lake instead.
Pro tip: There’s two places for you to get off the boat. Choose the second one first to start the Obersee hike as soon as possible to beat the crowds.
Privacy: Low. It’s a cool place, but (unless you opt for a hike above the lake) definitely one where it’s a bit harder to find some seclusion.
Please note: The Schrecksee is only suitable for true hiking enthusiasts. If that sounds like you and you happen to be dreaming of a full-day hiking elopement, though, oh boy, you’re in for an absolute treat! I can confidently say this is one of the most amazing places you’ll ever see.
Pro tip: Again, it’s a challenging hike. So it’s definitely one where you’ll want to change into your wedding attire once you’re actually near the lake.
Privacy: Moderate. Once you’re at the lake, it’s a pretty vast and open area, where it’s easy to avoid other people.
Honestly, Schloss Neuschwanstein is only on this list to tell you NOT to choose it. Don’t get me wrong, while staying in Germany, absolutely go and check out the castle; it’s worth the hype.
But statistically, it’s also literally the MOST visited place in the entire country. From the lack of spots for decent photos (even in the hills around the castle) to the insane crowds you’ll encounter year round, it simply doesn’t offer anything you’re typically looking for when eloping.
Pro tip: When coming here as part of your trip, definitely make sure to pre-book your tickets.
Privacy: Low.
Are you dreaming of an Elopement in Germany?
Let’s make it become reality:
How to get to Germany for your Elopement Wedding
By plane
Especially for flights coming in from outside of Europe, Germany’s best-connected airports are definitely Frankfurt and Munich. Unless you want to visit the northern part of the country (where flying into Hamburg or Berlin would be better), Munich is also ideal for any place in the German Alps. However, if you happen to find a really good deal for a flight to Zurich in Switzerland, it can also be a great option.
By train
Maybe one of the coolest things about Europe is its train network. Which means if flying isn’t your thing, you can easily find a train connection to almost every major German city from anywhere in Europe.
How to get around in Germany
By train
To be honest, the German railroad is unfortunately famous for often being a bit delayed. Still, it’s a great option to get around the country, especially when you’re planning on spending most of your time in cities. Just make sure to book your tickets early. For last-minute bookings, the prices are much higher.
By car
When visiting the country side (or the Alps, for example) having a car will allow for a lot more flexibility. I wouldn’t turn your stay into a cross-country road trip, though. Instead, take the train into the closest major city and rent a car there.
The best time to elope in Germany
Germany changes quite drastically between seasons. Which means choosing the one that works best for your plans is especially crucial.
One could definitely say spring doesn’t really show itself until April in Germany. The weather will still be quite chilly, especially in the morning, and there might even be some occasional light frost. Generally, temperatures will be somewhere between 5°C and 15°C (40°F-60°F), though. While the risk of rain is a bit higher, it’s a beautiful time to elope in Germany. As long as your date doesn’t overlap with any German holidays (which there are plenty of), you can have even the more popular places all to yourself.
Unsurprisingly, the hottest time of the year. But if you’re into hiking, any other outdoor activity, or beer gardens, summer in Germany is for you. It’s warm and quite vibrant, with temperatures typically somewhere between 24°C to 32°C (75°F-90°F). Be prepared, though – especially in August, heatwaves are becoming more and more regular, and temperatures easily reach around 38°C (100°F). Which is also when the lack of AC units in hotel rooms and apartments becomes quite an issue.
Still, it’s a lovely time, and also when you’ll get the absolute most out of the alpine regions with their stunningly beautiful mountains and lakes.
For anyone who doesn’t fancy the heat of summer, eloping in Germany during fall is a great choice. With around a third of the country being covered by forests, most landscapes turn into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Shorter days, longer nights and heartier meals also are the perfect excuse to get cozy and slow down.
The weather will be a bit stormier and you can expect it to be around 10°C (50°F).
Also, if you’re into German clichés and drinking more beer than anyone can handle, the Oktoberfest (which already starts in late September) is as good (or bad) as it gets.
If you’re looking to hit the slopes to ski or have always dreamt of visiting one of Germany’s amazing Christmas markets (like in Dresden, Nuremberg or Cologne), this is now the time.
Unfortunately, unless you’re somewhere in the southern mountain regions, most of the country doesn’t see too much snow. So it’s just cold and dark, mostly. Still, there’s some beauty to it, and if you do happen to be where it’s snowy, you’ll have a great time. Bring a thick jacket and some layers, though. Temperatures will probably be between -10°C to 5°C (14°F-41°F).
Narrowing down my personal favorite time to elope in Germany is easy: April, May and October.
It will neither be too hot nor too cold. And with crowds being less of an issue, our planning process will be much, much easier. Speaking of – the days are also still long enough, allowing for plenty of time for photos in perfect conditions and fun activities.
Where to stay for your Germany Elopement
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial, especially if you want your getting ready to be part of your elopement photo story.
My favorite hotels in Germany:
Soho House Berlin
Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden
Bayern Resort Hotel
Resort Baumgeflüster
Soho Mountain Chalet
Iglu-Dorf Zugspitze
My favorite AirBnbs in Germany:
Harzverbunden
Black Forest Bungalow
Riverside Apartment Hamburg
Houseboat Berlin
Alps Apartment
How much does an Elopement in Germany cost?
Well, as always – it depends. Primarily on a few critical personal choices when it comes to your own travel expenses, which is why I won’t include them. And of course, the number of vendors you choose to hire in addition to your photographer plays a big role, too.
The most cost-effective elopements in Germany, with minimal photography coverage can cost as little as 1.500-2.500 € (1.800-3.000 $).
On average, couples typically spend around 6.000-10.000 € (7.000-12.000 $), though.
A bit more luxurious elopements, with extended photography/videography coverage or pricier activities like a private helicopter ride, usually cost around 12.000-18.000 € (14.000-21.000 $)
Again – this does not include your own travel expenses, since those tend to change drastically between couples.
But even if you add them, compared to what a big, traditional wedding in Germany would’ve cost you, an elopement is around 2-3x more cost-effective. And you get to make a trip out of it! Isn’t that also the best part?
Step by step planning instructions
How to plan your elopement in Germany in 5 easy steps
Step 1 – Vision, time of year & guests
Envision your must-haves, such as traditions, activities and locations you’d love to visit. This should also include a discussion about whether or not you’d like to elope with guests. Additionally, decide what your favorite season / month for your plans would be. Being a bit flexible with this helps a lot.
Step 2 – Budget
Try to see how much you’re comfortable with spending on your elopement. No one should go into debt for getting married.
Step 3 – Book your local Germany Elopement Photographer
Having the right person for your photography and planning by your side is SO crucial. This could even be step one, actually.
Step 4 – Vendors & extras
Think attire, vows and rings. This would also be the time to reach out to any other vendor (like an officiant or florist) you’d like to have.
Step 5 – Book your travel
Finish everything off by booking your accommodation, flights (or train tickets) and a rental car.
The best activities for your entire trip to Germany
Like I said before, most couples turn their elopement into their honeymoon. And while you could easily travel to another European country after eloping in Germany, there’s lots to do if you prefer to stay for a bit:
· ride the Zugspitze cable car
· visit the Berlin wall
· book an underground tour in Berlin
· visit the Miniatur Wunderland Hamburg
· visit the Autostadt Wolfsburg
· visit Neuschwanstein Castle
· go hiking in Saxon Switzerland Nationalpark
· take a boat across the Königssee
Inquire now:
You don’t need to have it all figured out yet, don’t worry.
Just drop me a message and I’ll get back to you within 48h. I can’t wait to hear from you, learn about your plans and make them become reality for you.
