Tie the Knot in Denmark: 3 Places to Elope
Denmark is a dream destination for elopements, offering beauty and charm in every season. From the vibrant blooms of spring and endless summer skies to the golden hues of autumn and the cosy charm of winter, each time of year reveals a unique side of Denmark’s beauty (Or maybe I’m just a little biased—I can’t help but love how every season weaves its own magic into Denmark’s landscapes! :))
One of the greatest advantages of choosing to elope in Denmark is the simplicity and convenience. With a hassle-free process that requires minimal paperwork, and in most cases, two witnesses provided free of charge, you can focus entirely on your special day without unnecessary stress.
As someone who has photographed many elopements across Denmark, I’m here to help you uncover the ideal setting for your ceremony. Every couple has a unique story, and I’m passionate about suggesting locations that reflect your vision, style, and the atmosphere you’re dreaming of.
So, let’s take a look at the top places to elope in Denmark!
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Copenhagen: The Ultimate Elopement Destination in Denmark
Leaving Copenhagen off the list would be a big oversight! As Denmark’s capital and a hub of convenience, it’s no surprise that Copenhagen is the most popular place for couples to elope. The city’s calm atmosphere and walkability make it an ideal choice for many. During our wedding photoshoots, couples often share how peaceful and easy it is to explore Copenhagen on foot.
Getting here is simple, too. From Copenhagen Airport, the metro can bring you straight into the city centre in just 20 minutes—a smooth and stress-free start to your elopement compared to many other major European cities. And once you’re in the city, there’s little need for public transport; everything is within walking distance.
Curious if Copenhagen is the right choice for your elopement? Let me share my top three picks for memorable and picturesque ceremony locations in this vibrant city.
Copenhagen City Hall
Copenhagen City Hall is a classic and reliable choice for your elopement. It offers a unique and historic setting, combining grand architecture with a timeless atmosphere. The iconic tower and spacious atrium provide a stunning backdrop for ceremonies and incredible photos.
The City Hall’s tower stands at 105.6 meters, making it one of the tallest buildings in Copenhagen. You can learn more about available tours here.
During the colder months, instead of venturing out into the streets, consider spending time exploring Copenhagen City Hall itself after your ceremony. You can easily spend an hour capturing beautiful photos within the grandeur of the building. The City Hall also features a small garden, perfect for post-ceremony celebrations or relaxed portraits during the warmer months.
Just a short walk away from Copenhagen City Hall, you’ll find iconic spots like Nyhavn and Christiansborg Palace. You can wander the vibrant streets, relax in a cozy café, or enjoy the picturesque canals—creating the perfect setting for an unforgettable day. The blend of historical significance and modern convenience makes Copenhagen City Hall an ideal choice for couples seeking a memorable, intimate experience. However, be prepared for potentially longer queues, as it’s a popular venue
Planning your celebration at Copenhagen City Hall? You’ll want to give this blog post a read “Copenhagen City Hall Guide”
The Royal Library Garden (Det Kongelige Biblioteks Have)
The Royal Library Garden offers a serene, scenic, and somewhat secretive setting for your intimate elopement. Tucked away behind the historic architecture of the Royal Library, this garden provides a peaceful oasis right in the heart of Copenhagen. Surrounded by lush greenery and little pathways, the garden’s tranquil atmosphere is further enhanced by the soothing sounds of a nearby fountain.
One of the unique aspects of this garden is its location—it’s situated just behind Christiansborg Palace, which is the seat of the Danish Parliament and also home to the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister’s Office. The palace adds a touch of grandeur to the area, making it an even more special spot for your celebration.
For the most beautiful experience, consider exchanging your vows here in mid-May when the garden blooms in vibrant colors or in early September when the late-summer light adds a warm glow. Whether you’re planning a private ceremony or a public one, the garden is flexible enough to accommodate both. You can find available dates for the public ceremony here.
Eloping at the Royal Library Garden sparked your interest? Take a look at the ceremony photos here
Villa Kultur
Villa Kultur, located in the vibrant Østerbro district of Copenhagen, provides a unique and artistic setting for your elopement. The villa’s elegant interiors, blending historic charm with modern design, offer a range of stylish backdrops for your intimate ceremony. You can choose from four distinct rooms, including the serene “Orangery,” with its lush gardens and tropical atmosphere.
Other options include the marble-floored “Ballroom and Wine Cellar,” the bright and airy “Living Room,” and the outdoor “Garden and Backyard.”
Personally, I’d recommend the Orangery as my top choice. It’s a great “safe” option if the weather turns out to be upsetting, as the indoor spaces provide cover and comfort. I would also recommend this place if it’s just the two of you or you have very few guests due to its limited space.
Ærø: Discover Romance on Denmark’s Island of Love
Ærø, often lovingly referred to as the Danish island of love, offers a magical and idyllic setting for destination weddings. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the island’s relaxed atmosphere, complete with charming villages, pristine beaches, and breathtaking coastal views. Ærø blends historic charm with modern amenities, offering delicious local cuisine, cosy guesthouses, and a warm, welcoming community.
To reach Ærø, you can catch a ferry from Svendborg (a relatively short drive from Copenhagen) or from the German coast.
The island’s laid-back vibe and natural beauty create an unforgettable backdrop for your intimate elopement, with endless opportunities for stunning wedding photography. Unlike Copenhagen, Ærø is best experienced from late May to early September, making it the perfect choice for a serene and memorable celebration.
Ærø City Hall
The Ærø City Hall, located in the island’s main town, offers a convenient and intimate setting for your elopement. While the building itself is small and unassuming, its charm lies in the surrounding area. The picturesque streets, adorned with colourful houses, charming squares, and scenic harbor views, provide the perfect backdrop for capturing beautiful photos afterward.
An interesting fact about Ærø City Hall is that it is located in Ærøskøbing, one of Denmark’s oldest towns. It’s known for its well-preserved medieval atmosphere and has been recognized as one of Denmark’s most picturesque towns. In fact, Ærøskøbing is often referred to as the “fairytale town” due to its cobblestone streets and charming, colourful houses.
Planning your celebration in Ærø? You’ll want to give this blog post a read “Ærø Guide”
Ærø Beach
Imagine exchanging vows with the gentle waves, a soft breeze, and Ærø’s charming beach huts in the background.. The beaches of Ærø provide a romantic and unforgettable setting for your intimate elopement, best enjoyed between May and October. Whether you choose a secluded cove or a golden stretch of sand, the island’s stunning coastal scenery offers a quintessential Nordic experience for free-spirited couples and nature lovers seeking a laid-back celebration.
It’s worth noting that the wind in Denmark can be strong, adding a touch of wild beauty to the experience—ideal for those who embrace spontaneity and the natural elements.
For this experience, it’s highly recommended to hire a wedding planner, and Danish Island Weddings can help bring this beautiful experience to life—get in touch with them here.
The Old Merchant’s House
The Old Merchant’s House in Ærø is a perfect choice for couples seeking an intimate and rustic setting for their elopement. This historic venue exudes Danish charm with its old wooden floors, timeless paintings, and minimalist decor, creating a cosy and elegant atmosphere that reflects the essence of hygge. The venue’s authentic character and unique details provide an ideal backdrop for a private and memorable ceremony. For those who appreciate understated beauty and classic elegance, The Old Merchant’s House is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Learn more about this charming location here.
Kolding: Your Dream Elopement in the Heart of Denmark
No list of elopement locations in Denmark would be complete without mentioning Kolding, located in Jutland, the country’s largest region. Nestled in the heart of Denmark, Kolding offers a perfect blend of convenience and beauty, making it an ideal spot for couples looking to say “I do” in a more intimate setting.
Located 233 km from Copenhagen and 240 km from Hamburg, Kolding is easily accessible by road and rail, making it a popular choice for couples traveling across Europe. For those coming from further afield, such as Frankfurt or Munich, flying into Billund Airport—just an hour away—is the most convenient option.
The town strikes the perfect balance—not too big, not too small—offering something for everyone with its historic streets, vibrant cultural scene, and the stunning Koldinghus Castle as a backdrop.
Kolding wedding photos by Hanna
Kolding Town Hall
Kolding Town Hall perfectly combines modern design with warmth, making it an ideal choice for an intimate wedding. Its plant-covered exterior is a striking feature, adding a lush, natural element that beautifully contrasts with the town’s surroundings. In autumn, the golden leaves create a stunning contrast with the greenery, while in winter, the nearby Christmas tree adds a festive touch to the scene.
Inside, the Town Hall continues to impress with its cosy atmosphere and characterful details. The wooden staircases and large windows bring timeless elegance, making it an excellent venue for a winter ceremony. The warm tones of the interior provide an intimate vibe that will enhance the magic of your special day.
It’s important to note that while Kolding Town Hall hosts weddings on Saturdays, couples will need to arrange their own witness, as the venue does not provide one on weekends.
Christiansfeld wedding photos by Hanna
Søstrehuset (Christiansfeld)
If Kolding Town Hall is unavailable, Søstrehuset in Christiansfeld is a wonderful alternative located just 20 km away. Set in the heart of this UNESCO-listed town, the venue’s historic yellow-brick exterior radiates warmth and charm, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for an intimate wedding. The town itself is filled with cosy corners that are ideal for capturing stunning wedding photos, while the nearby fjord offers a peaceful setting for post-ceremony moments and additional photography opportunities, especially for nature-loving couples.
Conveniently close to the German border, Søstrehuset is an even better choice for couples traveling from Germany by car.
Interesting fact: Known for its unique Moravian architecture, Christiansfeld is often called “the town of honey cakes” thanks to its centuries-old tradition of honey cake making—a delightful detail to include in your celebration!
Bonus: Fanø Island
For couples seeking an alternative to Denmark’s more traditional elopement locations, Fanø Island provides a unique and adventurous setting. Located just a short ferry ride from Esbjerg—approximately 60 km from Kolding—Fanø offers a sense of seclusion without sacrificing ease of travel. Unlike Ærø, which has a more serene and cultivated charm, Fanø features a wilder, more rugged landscape. The island boasts wide sandy paths, windswept dunes, and expansive beaches, creating a dramatic and adventurous backdrop for your wedding ceremony and photography.
After the ceremony, you can explore hidden coves, enjoy the peaceful island life, or venture into the dunes. Fanø is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering surfing, cycling, and hiking—perfect for couples who want to combine romance with adventure.
Other popular elopement destinations in Denmark
If none of the three destinations above spoke to your heart, don’t worry—there are plenty of other beautiful places to elope in Denmark! Some other popular destinations include:
Stevns – Best reached from Copenhagen, with stunning coastal views. See an example gallery here.
Helsingør – Rich in history and easily accessible from Copenhagen or Helsingborg in Sweden. See an example gallery here.
Sønderborg – A picturesque and romantic option, especially for couples driving from Germany. See an example gallery here
Aabenraa – Another popular choice for couples coming from Germany, however, may incur longer waiting times. While I haven’t personally taken photographs here, my colleague Yana has captured some beautiful moments. Take a look here.
If you’re thinking of hiring a photographer for your elopement in Denmark, I’d be honoured to be part of your celebration! You can read about my elopement experience here, email me here or scan / click Whatsapp QR code above.
about the author:
i'm ieva vi - a wedding & lifestyle photographer, based in copenhagen. When I'm not behind the lens capturing beautiful moments, I love to explore new places and share my experiences with readers. Take a look at my portfolio, and feel free to reach out for collaborations.
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