Best wedding venues in Santorini – Ultimate Guide by a local Cinematographer

The whitewashed houses splashed with bursts of bright blue is an iconic Greek image characteristic of the Cyclades, the group of islands of which Santorini is a part. Santorini isn’t only one island, but rather a group of them (archipelago), all of which are considered the “gem of the Aegean” for their striking beauty. Santorini is an active volcano with its crater emerging into the sea, making its natural beauty unparalleled. Couples from all over the planet yearn for such a beautiful backdrop in their wedding videos and photos, making Santorini one of the most sought after wedding destinations. Each of the towns on the islands has a unique feel, offering couples the opportunity to truly embrace the place that will capture their own personality and style. If you want to get married on the Greek Islands, and would like to know more about the Best Wedding Venues in Santorini, please keep reading this guide. It will be split in different sections presenting the best places to get married in Santorini’s Imerovigli, Pyrgos, Oia, Megalochori, Akrotiri, Vlychada but also the top wedding venues in Firostefani.

Of course I am aware that making a guide of the best places to get married in Santorini cannot be exhaustive, so I am eager to work directly with couples to find the place that best represents them. A Google image search or an online text will never be able to truly convey the mood of a place. Fortunately, as an experienced Wedding cinematographer on the Greek islands I am familiar with the region and can lend my firsthand knowledge to your wedding journey. I hope you will enjoy my list of the top wedding venues in Santorini.

Santorini’s Top Wedding Venues for your destination wedding in Oia, Imerovigli, Pyrgos, and more

Best Wedding Venues in Megalochori

Venetsanos Winery

There is very little more romantic than getting married at a vineyard with a dramatic view on the Aegean sea and the Santorini archipelago. At Venetsanos Winery, you can do just that. At this sophisticated venue, you will feel bordered only by the sky and the sea as you gaze out upon the port of Athinios.

The winery is the oldest in Santorini, making it a site in which you can sip in the region’s incredible wine-making history. Here, you will learn why the land is so fertile for the wine you will be able to try. While the buildings have been modernized, the winery still boasts historic manners of production. The building appears built directly into the natural setting, creating a harmonious blend for visitors.

Here, you can get married with panoramic views of the legendary caldera and a sea dotted with small islands in the background. Start in the breathtaking upper terrace to follow with your reception in the elegant outdoors area. The maximum capacity of seated guests is 120 persons in round tables, 150 persons in a standing reception or 120 persons in theatre style.

Best Wedding Venues in Pyrgos

Unlike the typical cycladic architecture, Pyrgos, the largest preserved village in all of Santorini, is a medieval village built on the highest spot and overlooking the island. Capital of Santorini till the beginning of the 19^th century, it still keeps some influences from the Venetian period. Due to its strategic position and breathtaking views the area of Pyrgos hosts today some of the most prestigious wedding venues in Santorini.

Santorini Gem

Located in the vicinity of Pyrgos, Santorini Gem possesses some of the most idyllic views in the region. The venue is a private estate complete with lush gardens and date trees, along with a wedding terrace that looks out upon the volcano and the sea. Both the indoor and outdoor spaces of Santorini gem will enchant you and your guests, allowing you to embrace complete glamour and taste.

The icing on the cake for your wedding in Santorini Gem, is the Luxury Property, available exclusively for the wedding day and first night accommodation. The elegant and spacious villa is the ideal scenery for the wedding preparations and pre-wedding photo and video shoot.

Whether your wedding is large or small, the venue can accommodate your vision. They will also provide you with hospitality, planning assistance, and a delicious wedding menu to serve your guests.

Santo Winery

Peer out over the Aegean sea, gazing over the volcano and other small Greek villages from the venue’s incredible terrace upon which you can trade “I do’s.” Located close to the legendary town of Pyrgos, Santo Winery makes your wedding planning easy by providing you with a wedding package that includes, among other wonderful features, a glass of local wine from their own production immediately following the ceremony.

The venue’s large Gazebo strikes beautifully against the blue sky, and you can choose to hold your wedding immediately at sunset, making it easily one of the most memorable moments of your life. While the interior and exterior spaces are both modern, they blend seamlessly with the surrounding architecture and the rock of the Caldera. 

Saint Antonio Vineyard

Say “I do” surrounded by volcanic vineyards on top of a hill facing the sea. Embrace the panoramic views of the Caldera and the Santorini tradition by holding your nuptial ceremony under the brilliant white gazebo at the Saint Antonio Winery. Sip in the region’s famous wine while gazing over the Aegean and admiring some of the best sunset views you are likely to ever see. There are many sites available to organize your dream wedding ceremony, from the picturesque chapel of Saint Antonio to the terrace overlooking the volcano and the city of Fira.

Because of the unique composition of the volcanic soil and Meditteranean climate, Santorini has some of the absolute best wine in all of Greece. Make a toast to you and your love by embracing what makes this beautiful region unique.

Best Wedding Venues in Imerovigli

Imerovigli is a little village in the central part of the Caldera on the road connecting Fira to Oia. It is one of the highlights of the island, exhibiting some of the most picturesque spots to watch the sunset and take pictures while overlooking the imposing Skaros rock. No surprise that you can find some of the top wedding venues in Santorini in Imerovigli.

Le Ciel

Le Ciel provides the iconic Santorini image, boasting incredible sunset views alongside sights of the volcano. Here, you can hold your destination wedding upon a brilliant white terrace with blue views of the surrounding sea and the steep cliffside.

If the weather gets crazy on your special day, you can also choose to get married or hold your reception in the elegant interior space. In addition to what are perhaps the best sunset views on all of Santorini, Le Ciel also offers you and your guests exquisite wedding menus that are sure to impress, taking their attention to detail and quest for perfection to their gastronomy.

The picturesque Greek Village in which Le Ciel sits, Imerovigli, has its own charm — with only 500 inhabitants you can combine the grace and sophistication of the Le Ciel wedding venue with the authenticity of the surrounding town. A perfect combination for your ceremony and photo / video shooting session thereafter!

Rocabella Santorini Hotel & Spa

Pursue a sense of understated luxury at the Rocabella Santorini Hotel & Spa in Imerovigli, where the venue’s attention to detail will captivate you and your guests. The suites provide all necessary comforts and more, with modern and simplistic decor accentuating the island’s style and charm.

The location is ideal for couples to enjoy their trip to Santorini, with close enough proximity to the city to enjoy its culture and enough distance from the bustle to really relax and apprehend your big day. Here, you will be enchanted by the captivating seaside and sunset views, encouraging you to fully embrace the legendary romance the island has to offer.

There are a number of different sites for your ceremony and reception in the Rocabella Hotel. The deck at the top of the hotel is one very popular option, enclosed entirely in glass walls that allow you to comfortably admire the views. For small ceremonies, you can be married on a boat upon the sea in a luxurious boat provided by the venue.

Andromeda Villas & Spa Resort

One of the most prestigious Santorini Wedding Venues is Andromeda Villas. It is located in the picturesque village of Imerovigli, and overlooks the iconic Scaros rock and the volcanic rock of Nea Kameni. This luxurious venue is built in the architecturally stunning style of the Cyclades, embracing an elegant attention to detail.

Float your gaze over the Caldera rim, taking in the endless blue before you. When you plan your wedding at Andromeda Villas, you don’t have to worry about a single detail. The venue’s dedicated staff is eager to help you embrace your big day to the fullest by allowing you to focus on what really matters: Your love.

You can choose from a variety of services, including catered buffets, intricate floral arrangements, personalized decor, and DJs or live music. You can even choose to pursue a little pampering, with on-site hair, make-up, and manicure services. For accommodation, you won’t find the hotel to be lacking: Choose from studio apartments with sea views or VIP suites complete with private Jacuzzis.

Best Places to get married in Oia Santorini

Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel

Canaves Oia is one of the most luxurious intimate wedding venues in Santorini. As you say “I do” you can feel the fresh sea breeze and admire the breathtaking blue skies, while being at walking distance from all the highlights of the picturesque town of Oia.

The Canaves Oia is one of the most exclusive wedding venues in the region, but the price tag is well worth the unforgettable experience and flawless delivery provided by the incredible venue and its dedicated staff. Enjoy the modernized luxury, infinity pools, while staring out at the dramatic scenery beyond the hotel’s walls.

The Canaves Oia can host intimate legal or symbolic ceremonies up to 30 guests in the Panorama Balcony, up to 40 guests in the Veranda Balcony or up to 60 guests in the Sunset Terrace. All these intimate terraces overlook the Caldera and the city of Oia.

Canaves Oia’s layout is designed only to capture the breathtaking views and to fully take advantage of Oia’s incredible scenery, claimed to have some of the best spots to gaze the Santorini sunset. The amenities in the suites are unparalleled and provide all comforts that one could crave. Your destination wedding at Canaves Oia is guaranteed to impress both you and your guests.

Requests of more than 60 guests can be accommodated under specal terms and conditions and a buy out of the resort.

Best Wedding Venues in Firostefani

Dana Villas & Infinity Suites

Dana Villas & Infinity Suites conveys sheer luxury, containing 32 upscale suites and private villas, all dedicated to providing an elegant holiday feel. Facing west from this beautiful cliffside venue is Firostefani, a Greek village close to the capital, Fira, splashed with bits of light as the sun sets. Here, you can have your wedding your way, with ceremonies and receptions tailor-made for you and your partner.

Say “I do” on a spectacular, intimate terrace overlooking the Santorini Caldera, and celebrate your love before one of the most exceptional backdrops in the world. Dana Villas is a popular wedding venue, having provided over 3,000 couples with unique ceremonies to celebrate their love. The detail-oriented staff work diligently to make every ceremony wonderful.

Walking through all the steps to arrive to Dana Villas from the center of Firostefani is definitely worth the effort. You are then rewarded with an unparalleled view from the private terrace of the venue.

Best Venues in Akrotiri

Cavo Ventus

On your way to the outermost south-western part of the island where an iconic lighthouse reigns, you will cross the region of Akrotiri. In this part of the island you can find one of the newest wedding venues in Santorini, Cavo Ventus. A luxurious private villa with two comfy bedrooms. Notwithstanding the low accommodation capacity, which is reserved exclusively for the newlyweds, this spectacular venue can host weddings of up to 70 guests.

The luxurious villa offers timeless elegance with a modern touch in one of the most singular landscapes of the Caldera. Because of its particular location, you and your guests can enjoy a global view, encompassing the volcanic islet of Nea Kameni and the picturesque towns of Fira, Imerovigli and Oia perched atop the cliff, on the opposite side.

The privacy of the villa, together with the opportunity to avoid you the hassle of moving at your wedding day are winning factors that put Cavo Ventus Villa among the top Wedding venues in Santorini.

Top Venues in Vlychada

Theros Wave Bar

Vlychada and Eros Beach are located on the southern coast of the island. Unlike the white houses and busy alleys of the Caldera villages, on this part you will meet a more adventurous and moon-shaped landscape, sculpted by the wind in the white volcanic rock.

In Theros Wave Bar you can hold your intimate wedding or elopement ceremony barefoot on the black pebbled beach, then continue till early morning with a crazy party featurting a live band or dj. The venue here is more exotic, private and adventurous. You will need to drive through an unpaved dirt track in the last part to reach the beach.

Although you cannot watch the famous sunset from this side of the island, Theros Wave Bar is definitely among the top 10 Wedding Venues in Santorini. The unique location, and the experienced personnel and partners of the venue will transform the site from a watersports beach to a fairytale wedding venue overlooking the aegean infinite blue, guaranteeing that your special day will remain unforgettable to you and your guests.

The Best Time to Get Married in Santorini

You may be wondering when to get married in Santorini. While the peak season in Santorini is from mid-June till August, you may want to avoid getting married during this time because of the intense heat, the crowd and the higher prices of accommodation. Santorini can be quite windy during the summer as well, which can help to offset some of the heat but can also make some outdoor weddings more difficult.

There are tourists on the island almost all year round. However, the main season lasts till late November and starts as early as end of March or mid-April. While the cheapest months for lodging and travel are going to be the off-season of November-March, and you will get to enjoy the Caldera just for the two of you, it may not be ideal weather-wise to plan your wedding totally off season, unless you are in for a great adventure.

Late spring or early fall are wonderful times to plan your wedding in Santorini! The months of May, June and September, October might be the best ones to celebrate your wedding in Santorini while enjoying the best of it.

How to choose the Best local vendors for your destination wedding in Santorini

I hope that my guide for the Best Wedding Venues in Santorini has proven to be helpful to pick yours. Most probably the next step would be to think about the rest of your wedding vendors.

When it comes to destination weddings in Santorini or some of the other Greek Islands my advice is to think local. Why choose local vendors for your wedding in Santorini? Well, here are a few reasons:

• You can save on travel costs for your vendors
• Local wedding vendors from Greece have the experience to suggest you some amazing spots for your ceremony, your after wedding shooting and your other activities
• you can rest assured that they have all the necessary documents and certifications to be allowed to provide their services legally in Santorini
• being in Greece throughout the year, they are able to handle situations and resolve problems on your behalf that may arise during the planning process
• Thinking local helps reducing the human footprint on the planet (less travel means less pollution impact for the environment).

Thankfully, Greece has some of the best and most awarded wedding vendors worldwide. You will be spoilt for choice.

From my side, I know Santorini perfectly and have all the necessary experience to help you organize your dream destination wedding in Santorini in the most personalized way. Through my strong local professional network I can help you book the Best wedding vendors in Santorini, Greece.

Your Destination Wedding Video in Santorini

Are you thinking of getting married in Santorini? Your story in one of the most beautiful locations in the whole world should be captured in the most distinctive way and your memories should be splendidly recorded. Your wedding video should not be a copy paste from another couple’s film. It is a marker of a moment you will carry with you for the rest of your lives and you should not settle for anything less than the best.

Meet your Videographer

Hey there! I am Kostas, your elopement videographer in Santorini and personal storyteller! I am a Destination Wedding Filmmaker based in Greece – also available worldwide. My aim is to provide you with an absolutely unforgettable lifetime experience, and to assist you along the way while you plan to elope in Italy.

An elopement is always an intimate personalized experience, much more bespoke than a traditional wedding and so is my approach. Everyone is different and each couple’s story is unique, so my elopement films are not a copy-paste of another couple’s film. They are an authentic representation of who you are, and why you chose to be together in the first place!

Have a look at one of my most recent elopement films. The intimate ceremony took place in Dana Villas, overlooking the Skaros rock. Definitely one of the top wedding venues in Santorini:

Feel free to also check out this adventurous elopement film or this LGBTQ vow-renewal film, both from Santorini, or to have a look at some of my other past wedding videos. You can surely get an idea as to why my style is so different than anything else.

If you think that we are a good match, I am always happy to discuss options for your own wedding video. I’ll also share some of my inside knowledge of the region and the best wedding venues in Santorini to help you plan your dream wedding in Greece.