Your Greek Island Wedding vs Mainland Wedding: What to Expect

Planning a destination wedding in Greece? Here’s what to expect when choosing between a romantic island wedding or a chic mainland celebration—from logistics to atmosphere.

4/8/20252 min read

groom and bride on white hill
groom and bride on white hill
Greek Island Wedding vs Mainland Wedding: What to Expect

Greece is full of breathtaking wedding backdrops—but should you say “I do” on a postcard-perfect island or on the stylish, culture-rich mainland?

At Evental, we plan weddings across all of Greece—from the whitewashed cliffs of Santorini to elegant estates outside Athens. Here's how the two options compare—so you can decide what’s best for your celebration.

Greek Island Weddings: The Dreamy Escape
🏝️ Vibe:

Romantic, laid-back, cinematic. Think: sea views, golden sunsets, and barefoot dancing under the stars.

✔️ Pros:
  • Stunning natural scenery

  • Iconic island charm (white houses, blue domes, bougainvillea!)

  • Great for intimate weddings or full weekend escapes

  • Perfect combo of wedding + honeymoon

❗Consider:
  • Ferries/planes may add travel time and logistics

  • Some islands have limited vendor options (we’ll help with that!)

  • Higher demand in summer = early booking is key

🌟 Top Island Picks:
  • Santorini – Luxe, cliffside views, sunsets

  • Paros/Naxos – Under-the-radar gems with charm

  • Mykonos – Stylish, vibrant nightlife, high-end venues

  • Crete – Larger, full of options, beautiful beaches & mountains

Mainland Weddings: Elegant + Accessible
🏙️ Vibe:

Chic, cultural, and convenient. From historic venues to seaside villas near Athens—you’ll find elegance without compromise.

✔️ Pros:
  • Easier travel (especially from abroad)

  • More vendor variety and availability

  • Larger venues and estates for big guest lists

  • Near top historical & cultural sights

❗Consider:
  • Less “remote island” feeling

  • May not offer beach ceremony settings unless coastal

🌟 Favorite Mainland Venues:
  • Athens Riviera – Coastal elegance just 30 mins from the airport

  • Peloponnese – Vineyards, castles, and rich history

  • Delphi/Lake Doxa – Unique nature weddings in the mountains

💡 How to Decide: Island vs Mainland Wedding in Greece

1. Guest Travel
Choose a Greek island if: You're inviting a smaller group or want a more adventurous, exclusive vibe.
Choose the mainland if: You want easy access for more guests, especially those flying in from abroad.

2. Wedding Style
Island: Romantic, beachy, bohemian, or barefoot chic.
Mainland: Elegant, historical, cultural, or luxurious villa vibes.

3. Budget & Vendors
Island: May require higher costs for transport/logistics, and fewer local vendors (but we handle all of it).
Mainland: Greater vendor options, flexibility, and potentially more budget-friendly.

4. Time of Year
Island: Best in late spring to early fall (May–September) for warm, sunny weather.
Mainland: Flexible year-round options, including off-season and winter celebrations.

Your Dream Greece Wedding—Anywhere You Choose

Whether you pick the iconic islands or a hidden gem on the mainland, we’ll make it unforgettable. At Evental, we help couples choose the perfect location based on their vision, budget, and guest list—and we handle everything from there.

📩 Ready to start planning?

or email info@evental.gr