But then comes the big question... what will it cost?
Figuring out a destination wedding budget can feel like a daunting task. We're here to give you a proper guide. While the exact figure depends on your guest list, island choice, and vibe, we’ve broken down the average costs to help you get a handle on your spending.
(Note: All prices are based on industry averages and are quoted in Euros (€), as this is how vendors will bill you.)
Based on data from top planners, here’s what you can realistically expect:
The 50-Guest Wedding (The Average): For a full wedding with 50 guests, the average cost in Greece lands between €15,000 and €25,000. This covers a beautiful venue, catering, drinks, a planner, and key vendors.
The Micro-Wedding (20-30 Guests): For a more intimate affair, you can expect to spend around €8,000 to €12,000.
The Big Celebration (100+ Guests): If you're planning a larger event, be prepared for costs to range from €30,000 to €70,000+, especially on the more premium islands.
So, what are you actually paying for? Here are the big-ticket items.
1. The Wedding Planner: Your Best Investment
For an international wedding, a planner will save you significantly on time, stress, and costly mistakes.
Full Planning: Expect to pay between €3,500 and €8,000, or a percentage (15-20%) of your total budget.
Day-Of Coordination: If you’re keen to organise most of it yourself, a "day-of" coordinator costs around €1,500 to €2,500 to make sure it all runs smoothly.
2. The Venue: Your 'Wow' Factor
This is where your choice of island really matters.
Iconic Santorini Venues: That famous Caldera view comes at a premium. Ceremony venue fees alone can be €500 to €1,500.
Private Villas: A popular choice for privacy. Expect to pay €3,000 to €10,000 per day, and remember this is often a "dry hire" (meaning you have to bring everything else in).
Beach Bars & Restaurants: A great all-in-one option. Most work on a minimum spend, which can range from €8,000 to €15,000+ for a private event.
3. Food & Drinks: The Heart of Greek Hospitality
This will be one of your biggest expenses. Greeks are famous for their hospitality, so skimping on this isn't recommended.
Catering (Per Person): For a seated dinner or high-end buffet, budget €80 to €200+ per person.
Open Bar (Per Person): An open bar package for 3-4 hours will typically cost €30 to €70 per person.
4. Capturing the Day (Photography & Videography)
You’re travelling all that way; you need incredible photos. For a high-quality, in-demand photographer, budget is key.
Photographer: A full-day package from a professional destination photographer will be €2,000 to €5,000.
Videographer: A cinematic wedding video will cost a similar amount, from €2,000 to €4,500.
5. Styling: Flowers & Decor
This is what brings your vision to life. Good styling on a Greek island relies on expert florists and suppliers.
Flowers & Decor: A starting budget for beautiful, abundant florals, table settings, and lighting is around €2,000 to €6,000.
6. The Other Essentials
Don't forget these crucial elements that pull the whole day together:
Music & Entertainment (DJ + Sound): €1,000 - €3,000
Celebrant (for a symbolic ceremony): €500 - €800
Bridal Hair & Makeup: €300 - €600
Legal Paperwork (for a civil ceremony): Around €500 for all the official translations and fees.
Not all Greek islands are created equal when it comes to cost.
The A-Listers (Mykonos & Santorini): These are the most expensive islands, hands down. They have the highest demand, most luxurious venues, and highest vendor prices.
The Savvy Choices (Crete, Rhodes, Paros, Ios): You can get that same stunning blue-and-white vibe for a fraction of the cost on islands that are just as beautiful but less saturated. These islands often offer better value on venues and catering.
Some tips to achieve your dream wedding while keeping to a budget:
Avoid Peak Season: An August wedding in Mykonos will be double the price of a May or late-September wedding in Crete. Look at the "shoulder seasons" (May, June, September) for the sweet spot of great weather and better prices.
Be Realistic With Your Guest List: The single biggest way to cut costs is to reduce your guest count. Remember, every guest adds €100-€250 to your budget for food and drink alone.
Hire a Planner You Trust: This is our biggest tip. A good planner knows the local industry inside and out. They know which vendors are brilliant and which are overpriced. They’ll be your ultimate money-saving secret weapon.
A wedding in Greece is an investment, but it’s an unforgettable one. By being smart about where you're spending and hiring the right team, you can have the stunning celebration you've been dreaming of.
Ready to find your perfect team? Start exploring our directory of expert wedding planners here or browse the most beautiful wedding venues in Greece