6 offbeat European destinations that are perfect for a summer wedding

Think summer destination wedding and my mind automatically takes me to the beaches of Greece or France's stunning chateaus—is it only me? I think not. Summer weddings are perfect to experiment with unique locations that otherwise might be tough to pull off. Not to mention, ideal weather. We’ve seen celebrities from Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli as well as Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh choose the most idyllic European destinations for their weddings. And there’s absolutely no reason why you and your beau can’t do the same. We’ve rounded up a list of what we think are some of the most ideal destinations across Europe for a summer wedding. And here’s the best part: we dug deep into the internet to find a few lesser-known and offbeat places to plan your dream wedding. Read on. 

Tivat, Montenegro 

If you and your partner are keen on a coastal wedding then this town on the southern coast of Montenegro is just ideal. The region is rather unexplored and would be perfect to plan a close, intimate wedding with your loved ones. Regent Porto is a luxury retreat and one of the most popular spots for weddings with a spectacular view that overlooks the pristine blue ocean and the many yachts that are anchored in the harbour. If you’re planning a big fat Indian wedding, rest assured, different ceremonies can be hosted at the hotel's many venues, brimming with picturesque green lawns, and water fountains. 

Gstaad, Switzerland 

Nestled amidst snow-capped mountains are a host of private villas, hotels and luxury hideaways that couldn’t get more romantic for a summer destination wedding. And if you and your beau are the kind of people who have been taken in by Yash Chopra’s movie magic—than what better place to get married than Switzerland? The Gstaad Palace looks right out of a fairy tale, and makes for an incredible backdrop for a dreamy wedding. You can also opt for a warm and cosy wedding at Park Gstaad, one of the many luxury hotels in this resort town. 

Verona, Italy 

There’s just something so poetic and romantic about tying the knot in the same town as Juliet (form Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet). Apart from being a stunning location, the town has much to offer including its delectable cuisine and wines. A white wedding set against rolling vineyards as the sun sets is all that you could dream of. If you’re a die-hard romantic, Juliet’s home could be your wedding venue. But if you’re looking for something simple yet beautiful, you can choose to tie the knot at the Palladian Villas and Relies. 

Kassandra Peninsula, Greece 

Skip the run-of-the-mill destinations such as Santorini and opt for something off the radar such as the Kassandra Peninsula, located in Greece. With breathtaking sunsets, panoramic views, and ocean waves crashing against the shore, there’s little more you need for the perfect wedding. You can plan an adventure-filled wedding with various water-based activities for guests to indulge in. Book your stay at one of the many luxurious hotels and spa resorts that the region has to offer, such as Atena Pallas Village, Blue Lagoon Palace and the Hilltop Hotel. 

Glasgow, Scotland 

If you’ve always imagined yourself having a quaint, royal-like wedding—we’d recommend exploring Scotland’s many picturesque castles. One worth considering is Crossbasket Castle, a half an hour drive from the city of Glasgow. This 17th century castle is located by a river. You can choose to have a few ceremonies outdoors such as the mehendi and haldi, but we’d definitely suggest hosting the wedding ceremony in the Roosevelt Ballroom. Pro tip? Get your photographer to shoot you and your bridesmaids along the staircase of the castle for some stunning bridal pictures. You can also make a day trip into the city with your friends and family to take a look at the regal architecture, insightful museums and more. 

French Riviera, France 

While there are several places to say ‘I Do,’ along the French Riviera, the Villa Ephrussi De Rothschild is one of the most beautiful venues for a regal wedding. With grandiose architecture, opulent spaces and scenic views, it really couldn’t get more romantic than this. While you can choose to have the wedding indoors, we’d definitely recommend having an outdoor wedding as the bespoke property looks beyond magical when it is all lit up. Famous for its beaches, casinos and luxurious everything, you can also have a bridal brunch in the many restaurants and end the evening with a panoramic view of the resort town Villefranche-sur-Mer or even hit the streets of Monte Carlo. 

Inside images: Pinterest