Ribe Old Town Hall
Ribe Old Town Hall is a one-of-a-kind location for couples dreaming of a wedding steeped in history and atmosphere. Situated in Denmark’s oldest town, just south of Esbjerg and not far from the German border, it is an unforgettable setting for a civil ceremony. The town hall itself is a beautifully preserved Renaissance building dating back to the 15th century, with charming interiors and original architectural details that make your wedding day feel truly special.
If you want to get married in Denmark with beautiful sorroundings, Ribe offers a peaceful and picturesque environment. From the moment you step onto its cobblestone streets, you are surrounded by centuries of history, beautiful old buildings, and a timeless atmosphere that sets the stage for an intimate and personal wedding day.
- Opened: 1974
- Airport: 163 km
- Hotels nearby: Yes
Why get married at Ribe Old Town Hall
Ribe is a fantastic location for international couples, especially those travelling by car from Germany or other parts of Central Europe. If you want to get married in Denmark near Germany, Ribe is an ideal choice.
It is located only a short distance from the border, and the journey from Hamburg takes less than three hours. If you are flying in, you can also reach Ribe from Billund Airport in about an hour, or from Copenhagen in just over three hours by train or car.
The surrounding area is known for its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and cultural experiences. Ribe is a major tourist destination in Denmark, attracting visitors from all over Europe, and getting married here means you can combine a legal Danish wedding with the charm of a mini holiday.
You can also take advantage of the many photo opportunities around town, from Ribe Cathedral and the old square to the winding streets and riverside paths. Whether you plan to stay for just a few hours or turn your trip into a weekend celebration, Ribe is a location that offers both practicality and unforgettable surroundings.
As with all weddings in Denmark, your marriage must be approved by the Danish Agency of Family Law before the ceremony can take place. This includes submitting an application with documents and relevant information.
At Wedding Planner Denmark, we make this part of the process easy by handling the application and communication with the authorities for you.
What to do while in Ribe
Even if your wedding in Ribe is just a short visit, the town offers far more than a simple ceremony. As Denmark’s oldest town, Ribe is full of charm and authenticity, with cobbled streets, medieval houses, and a quiet atmosphere that invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment. You can take a walk through the town’s historic centre, stop by one of the many local cafés or bakeries, or browse the small shops and galleries that line the old streets. The town square, Ribe Cathedral, and the riverside paths are all perfect locations for romantic wedding photos.
Ribe also has a strong cultural identity, with several museums and exhibitions worth visiting – including the Ribe Art Museum and the Viking Center, which gives you a glimpse into Denmark’s ancient past. If you are staying overnight, the town becomes especially magical in the evening when the streets quiet down and the lights reflect off the old buildings.
If you want to explore beyond Ribe, the nearby Wadden Sea National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is only a short drive away and offers wide open landscapes, bird watching, and guided mudflat walks.
You’re also close to Esbjerg, a larger coastal city with restaurants, shopping and ferry access to the island of Fanø. Heading south, you can easily reach the German border, making Ribe a great stop on a longer European journey or a perfect setting for a destination wedding with minimal travel.
The wedding ceremony at Ribe Old Town Hall
Weddings at Ribe Old Town Hall take place in one of the most atmospheric venues in all of Denmark. The building itself dates back several centuries and was once the seat of local government. Today, its historic interiors offer a quiet and dignified space where couples from around the world come to celebrate their love. The ceremony room is elegant, intimate, and full of original details, which makes the whole experience unique and historic.
Civil ceremonies are usually held on Thursdays, and can be conducted in English. This makes Ribe particularly appealing for couples who wish to have their ceremony they understand. The general level of German in the area is high. The staff at the town hall are friendly, professional and highly experienced in working with international couples. They create a calm and welcoming environment that ensures your wedding feels personal and meaningful, no matter how simple or formal you choose to make it.
To get married here, you simply need to bring your passports and required original documents 20 minutes before your ceremony. The ceremony itself is short, often lasting no more than 5–10 minutes, but couples are welcome to exchange rings or add personal vows if they wish to make the moment their own. If you do not have witnesses, the town hall can provide them for you free of charge – making the entire process even more convenient.
Your Wedding Partner in Denmark
We'll help you get married in Ribe
Planning a wedding in Ribe may sound like a big task, but with the right support, it’s surprisingly simple. At Wedding Planner Denmark, we specialise in helping international couples get married in Denmark, and Ribe Old Town Hall is one of the most unique and memorable places to do so.
We take care of all the practicalities, so you don’t have to worry about the paperwork or logistics. From preparing your documents and submitting the marriage application to coordinating with the town hall, assisting with transport, booking a photographer, or arranging local accommodation. We’re with you every step of the way.
Our wedding packages are flexible and tailored to your needs. Whether you just need help with the application or want a full-service experience including ceremony guidance and travel planning, we have options to suit every couple, including fast-track solutions for those on a tighter schedule.
With years of experience, a clear and supportive approach, and a trusted local network, we make sure everything goes smoothly. We’ve helped many couples tie the knot in Ribe – and we’d love to help you do the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
On what days can I get married at Ribe Town Hall?
Weddings at Ribe Old Town Hall are typically held on Thursdays. We’ll help you book your appointment with the town hall once your application has been approved.
In which language is the ceremony conducted?
Yes. Besides Danish of course, the ceremonies can be held in both English and German, making Ribe a great option for couples who prefer to marry in their native language or a language they understand well.
Do I need to bring witnesses?
No. If you don’t bring your own witnesses, Ribe Town Hall can provide them free of charge. This makes the process easier, especially for couples travelling alone or eloping.
What documents do I need to bring on the day?
You must bring your original passports and any other required documents and present them to the registrar 20 minutes before the ceremony. We’ll guide you through everything in advance so you know exactly what to bring.
Is Ribe a good option for a one-day wedding trip?
Yes. Ribe is well-connected and close to both the German border and Billund Airport. Many couples travel in the morning, get married, and return home the same day – though you’re very welcome to stay and enjoy the town longer.