If you are dreaming of a wedding that feels like something out of a storybook, with peaceful surroundings, cobblestone streets, sea views and charming towns, then a wedding on one of Denmark’s many islands might be the perfect choice. While Denmark is well-known as one of the easiest places in Europe to get married, many couples are surprised to learn that it is also possible to get married on the islands.
It is not just just in the big cities like Copenhagen or Aarhus that you can get married. Whether you are planning an intimate elopement or a small celebration with close family, an island wedding in Denmark offers a truly unique and romantic setting.
Denmark is made up of more than 400 named islands, and many of them have town halls or municipal connections that allow for legal wedding ceremonies. Islands like Ærø, Fanø, Bornholm, Langeland, Møn and Samsø are not only beautiful but also well-equipped for hosting weddings, including for couples from abroad. These islands are known for their hospitality, scenic backdrops and slower pace of life, making them a hidden gem for international couples looking for something different.
While not every island has its own city hall, most are part of a larger municipality that offers civil marriage services. This means that if you have your heart set on getting married on an island, there is a very good chance it is possible. It may just require a bit of coordination with the local authorities, which is something we help with at Wedding Planner Denmark.
Choosing to get married on a Danish island is not just about location. It is about atmosphere. Islands often offer a completely different feel than the mainland. The pace is slower. The streets are quieter. The air feels fresher. It is the kind of place where you can truly take a deep breath and enjoy every moment of your big day.
Many of the islands feature old, well-preserved towns filled with traditional Danish architecture, narrow winding streets and cozy cafés. Others have long stretches of sandy beaches where you can enjoy a walk after the ceremony or take stunning wedding photos with the ocean in the background. There is something incredibly special about the intimacy and tranquility that an island setting provides. It feels more like an escape and less like a scheduled event.
Another wonderful aspect of choosing an island for your wedding is the opportunity to turn your celebration into a mini-vacation. Whether you plan to stay just one night or extend it into a honeymoon, the islands are full of romantic guesthouses, seaside hotels and scenic places to explore. You are not just getting married. You are creating memories in a place that will always feel magical to return to.
The process for getting married on a Danish island is exactly the same as for any other wedding in Denmark. First, you must apply to the Danish Agency of Family Law — also known as Familieretshuset. This is where you submit your documents and request permission to get married. If your application is approved, you will receive what is officially called a Certificate of Marital Status, or in Danish, a “prøvelsesattest.”
Once you receive this approval, you have four months to get married anywhere in Denmark, including on the islands. The next step is to contact the town hall of the island municipality where you wish to be married and request a ceremony date. This is where timing becomes important. Some island municipalities have limited availability or may be more popular during certain times of the year. We always recommend booking your ceremony as soon as you receive your approval from Familieretshuset. That way, you have the best chance of securing your preferred date and location.
The ceremony itself is a simple civil marriage conducted by an official registrar. It can usually be held in English and often takes place at the town hall, although some municipalities may offer outdoor or more scenic locations depending on what is possible.
At Wedding Planner Denmark, we are proud to have close working relationships with town halls and municipalities all across the country, including many located on Denmark’s smaller islands. Because of this, we can guide you through every step of the process and help you coordinate your dream island wedding without the stress or uncertainty that comes from planning in a different country.
We understand that every couple is unique, and we know how important it is that your wedding day feels personal and meaningful. If you are considering getting married on an island like Ærø, Bornholm or Fanø, we can help with everything from the paperwork to the booking, and even recommend where to stay and what to see while you are there.
Getting married on a Danish island does not have to be complicated. With the right support, it can be one of the most beautiful and memorable decisions you ever make.
If you are dreaming of a quiet, romantic wedding away from the busy city, Denmark’s islands might be exactly what you are looking for. With their natural beauty, charming towns and peaceful surroundings, they offer a truly unforgettable setting for your special day.
Contact us today and let us help you plan your wedding on one of Denmark’s breathtaking islands. We take care of the paperwork, the process and the practicalities, so you can focus on the magic of saying “I do” in a place that feels just right.
