France — the land of romance, timeless beauty, and captivating charm has long been one of the most coveted destinations for weddings. From the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux to the glittering lights of Paris, a destination wedding in France offers an unforgettable backdrop for couples who dream of saying “I do” in one of the most romantic countries on earth. In this article, we’ll explore why France is a top destination wedding location, share sample wedding packages with prices, and highlight the unique perks that make a French wedding so magical.
Why Choose France for Your Destination Wedding?
1. Romance in Every Corner
France is synonymous with romance. Whether you’re exchanging vows under the Eiffel Tower, amidst the lavender fields of Provence, or in a medieval chateau, the ambiance in France feels like a living fairy tale. The picturesque settings and charming atmosphere make for incredible wedding photos and unforgettable memories.
2. World-Class Cuisine and Wine
French cuisine is world-renowned, and a wedding here means your guests will enjoy exquisite dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. From fine wines in Bordeaux to Michelin-starred meals in Paris, your wedding menu will be as memorable as the ceremony itself.
3. Iconic Venues
From historic chateaux and countryside estates to beachfront villas on the French Riviera, France offers a diverse array of stunning venues that cater to any wedding style — be it rustic, elegant, glamorous, or intimate.
4. Easy Access for Guests
France is centrally located in Europe, making it easily accessible for international guests. Major airports in Paris, Nice, and Lyon offer direct flights from many global cities.
5. Honeymoon Destination Built In
Why leave France for your honeymoon when you can explore world-famous regions like Provence, the Loire Valley, Côte d’Azur, or Normandy right after your wedding?
Popular French Destination Wedding Locations
1. Paris — The City of Love
- Iconic venues like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and historic hotels.
- Ideal for elopements or intimate weddings.
2. Provence — Lavender Fields and Vineyards
- Outdoor weddings with stunning natural scenery.
- Gorgeous light for photography, especially in summer.
3. French Riviera — Glamour and Seaside Luxury
- Perfect for chic, glamorous weddings.
- Venues in Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.
4. Bordeaux — Wine Country Elegance
- Stunning chateaux surrounded by vineyards.
- Ideal for wine lovers.
5. Loire Valley — Fairytale Castles
- Known for its picturesque castles.
- Offers a royal wedding atmosphere.
Sample Destination Wedding Packages in France
Let’s explore some sample packages to give you an idea of the costs and inclusions for a France destination wedding:
Package 1: Paris Elopement Package
Perfect for intimate weddings or elopements for up to 10 guests.
Venue: Private rooftop with Eiffel Tower view
Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Inclusions:
- Wedding planner services
- Legal paperwork assistance
- Professional officiant (symbolic ceremony)
- Photographer (4-hour coverage)
- Videographer (2-hour highlight video)
- Hair & makeup for bride
- Bouquet & boutonniere
- Private dinner reception for two
- Luxury hotel accommodation (2 nights, 5-star)
Price: €8,500 – €12,000 ($9,200 – $13,000 USD)
Package 2: Provence Lavender Field Wedding
For 50 guests, ideal for a summer wedding between June and August.
Venue: Lavender field estate in Provence
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Inclusions:
- Wedding planner & coordination
- Ceremony setup and decor
- Floral arrangements
- Catering (cocktail hour, 3-course dinner, wine)
- DJ and sound system
- Photographer (8-hour coverage)
- Videographer (full wedding video)
- Accommodation for couple (bridal suite)
- Accommodation for guests (optional, extra cost)
- Transportation for couple and guests
Price: €35,000 – €50,000 ($38,000 – $55,000 USD)
Package 3: French Riviera Luxury Wedding
For 100 guests, perfect for couples who want a glamorous seaside wedding.
Venue: Private villa in Saint-Tropez or Cannes
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Inclusions:
- Full wedding planning and design
- Legal paperwork assistance
- Luxury floral design
- Gourmet catering (5-course meal, open bar)
- Live entertainment & DJ
- Fireworks display
- Photographer & videographer (full weekend coverage)
- Hair & makeup for bride & bridal party
- Welcome cocktail party
- Farewell brunch
- Yacht cruise for newlyweds
- Luxury villa accommodation (bridal suite)
Price: €120,000 – €200,000 ($130,000 – $220,000 USD)
Package 4: Bordeaux Chateau Wedding
For 80 guests, with a focus on wine, food, and countryside charm.
Venue: 17th-century Chateau
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Inclusions:
- Exclusive chateau rental
- Wedding planner & coordination
- Full legal marriage assistance
- Ceremony and reception decor
- Wine tasting experience
- Professional photography & videography
- Full catering (3-day events)
- Fireworks or lantern send-off
- Hair & makeup for bride
- Accommodation for 30 guests
Price: €60,000 – €90,000 ($65,000 – $100,000 USD)
Additional Costs to Consider
While many packages cover the essentials, there are additional expenses to factor into your budget:
- Airfare for couple and guests
- Transportation within France
- Travel insurance
- Extra nights of accommodation
- Excursions and tours for guests
- Gifts or welcome bags
- Marriage license and legal fees (if opting for a legal ceremony)
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in France
Foreigners can legally marry in France but must meet certain residency requirements (usually 30-40 days before the wedding) if opting for a civil ceremony. Because of this, many couples choose to have the legal ceremony at home and a symbolic or religious ceremony in France. However, with the help of experienced local planners, some couples do navigate the legal process.
Perks of a Destination Wedding in France
1. Built-In Romance
Every corner of France offers breathtaking backdrops, from Parisian streets to vineyard sunsets, perfect for stunning wedding albums.
2. Culinary Excellence
Your wedding dinner will be one your guests will never forget, featuring exquisite dishes, world-class wines, and fresh, local ingredients.
3. Cultural Experience for Guests
Guests can turn your wedding into their vacation, exploring world-famous landmarks, museums, beaches, and countryside villages.
4. Intimate Celebrations
Destination weddings often result in smaller guest lists, allowing you to focus on close friends and family while creating a more intimate, memorable experience.
5. Top-Tier Wedding Vendors
France is home to some of the world’s most talented photographers, florists, chefs, and planners who specialize in luxury weddings.
6. Endless Venue Choices
From rustic farmhouses to opulent chateaux, beachfront resorts to modern Parisian lofts. France has a venue for every couple’s vision.
7. Stress-Free with the Right Planner
France has a well-developed destination wedding industry. Many experienced planners offer full-service coordination, from legal paperwork to vendor management, making planning a breeze even from thousands of miles away.
France vs. Other Destination Wedding Locations
| Feature | France | Italy | Mexico | Maldives |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Complexity | Moderate | Moderate | Easy | Complex |
| Venue Variety | Very High | High | High | Limited |
| Culinary Experience | World-Class | World-Class | Very Good | Good |
| Accessibility | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Moderate |
| Cost Range | Wide | Wide | More Affordable | High |
Is France Right for Your Destination Wedding?
If you’re dreaming of romance, elegance, and unforgettable beauty, France is one of the best destination wedding locations in the world. While it can be more expensive than some destinations, the value you receive in terms of experience, quality, and memories is unmatched. Whether you’re planning an intimate Parisian elopement, a glamorous Riviera celebration, or a countryside chateau affair, France offers endless possibilities to create your perfect wedding day.
Luxury Vacations Consulting is here to help plan every moment of magic. With world-class vendors, breathtaking venues, and seamless services available through experienced wedding planners, your dream wedding in France can become a reality — one that you and your guests will treasure forever.
BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION WITH US
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