Top 5 Reasons Why Couples Are Choosing Destination Weddings in 2026
2026 weddings are just around the corner, and one major trend we’re seeing is couples leaning into destination weddings. Whether it’s a place you’ve never visited or a favourite travel spot you’ve explored together, taking this next step in commitment abroad is a beautiful way to tie the knot.
With so many stunning locations to choose from, Greece, Italy, Mexico, and Portugal, couples are realizing they’re no longer limited to hometown venues. These destinations offer unique backdrops, rich cultural experiences, and venues that are nothing short of breathtaking, from villas in Florence, Italy, to castles in Lisbon, Portugal.
With the rise of the wedding week, destination weddings are also emerging as the top choice for couples wanting a longer celebration. More and more are realizing that one night simply isn’t enough to honour such a meaningful milestone. For couples who’ve been together three to five years—or longer—this kind of celebration reflects every choice they’ve made to stay committed and grow together. A single day doesn’t always feel like enough to capture all that history and emotion.
Below, we’re breaking down the top five reasons more couples are choosing to go abroad, plus some tips on navigating the process—and the perks that come with it.
“Planning a destination wedding can be an exhilarating adventure, whether it’s just a few hours away or across continents. At Claudia and Co, we have mastered the art of crafting unforgettable events in Toronto, Portugal, and worldwide bringing our expertise to various destinations.”
1. Luxury Travel + Weddings = One Investment
One of the biggest reasons destination weddings are gaining popularity is the ability to combine your wedding, honeymoon, and even a future anniversary trip into one seamless experience, rather than spreading your budget across multiple events.
An added bonus? You get to enjoy an extended honeymoon in a beautiful country without the stress of post-wedding travel. Instead of waking up early the next morning to catch a flight, you can simply stay put and relax. Many couples underestimate how physically and emotionally draining the wedding day can be. With a destination wedding, the transition from celebration to honeymoon is effortless. You get to spend a few extra days—or even a week—soaking it all in with your new spouse, peacefully and travel-free (at least until it’s time to head home).
2. A More Intentional Guest List
Image @everlastingmoments & thearlingtonestate & @gattoflowers
Simplicity at its finest, destination weddings are an amazing way to shorten your guest list for a more simplistic and intentional wedding ceremony. Planning a local wedding often comes with pressure to invite distant relatives or acquaintances you may not feel particularly close to yet. With destination weddings, you naturally lean toward a smaller, more intentional guest list. This lets you focus on quality time with those who matter most, and celebrate with your broader community at a later date, if you choose.
3. Social Media’s Influence
Let’s be honest—it’s hard not to be inspired when you scroll past stunning Amalfi cliffside vows or jungle ceremonies in Tulum. Social media has played a major role in the rise of destination weddings, making them feel more accessible than ever. With content creators, wedding planners, and travel experts sharing tips, itineraries, and inspiration, planning abroad doesn’t feel as overwhelming anymore.
Florence, Italy Venue: Photo Image From Villa La Selva Resort
Still nervous about booking venues or vendors you can’t visit in person? That’s where an experienced wedding planner comes in handy. Working with someone who knows the destination and has a trusted vendor list can ease the stress and help you feel confident in every decision. Visit our connection page to get a consultation and chat with us about your dream wedding plans!
4. Unique Venues With Cultural Flair
The most undeniable reason destination weddings are rising in popularity is the access to unique venues around the world. Whether it's a historic villa in Florence, Italy, check out our top venues here, or a cliffside estate in Porto, Portugal, the possibilities are endless.
Plus, incorporating local culture—through food, wine, music, and décor—adds a personal and memorable touch. Think wine and cheese pairings in Tuscany or traditional Portuguese desserts as your wedding favours. These small details turn your wedding into an immersive experience that your guests will talk about for years.
For more beautiful destination wedding spots in Spain, check out our past blog post: Destination Wedding Locations in Spain.
Porto, Portugal Venue: Photo Image From Casa dos Arcos
5. A Chance to Truly Disconnect
Another amazing perk of a destination wedding is the natural pause it creates from everyday life. When you’re celebrating in another country, or even just outside your usual environment, it becomes much easier to unplug from the constant notifications, work emails, and daily routines that so often steal our attention.
A new setting, especially in a different timezone, signals to your mind (and your guests’) that this is a time to slow down and be present. You're not squeezing your wedding into an already full week; you're stepping into a space where the only priority is connection, celebration, and enjoying the moment.
Lisbon, Portugal Venue: Casa dos Penedos: Lisbon’s Sintra Region
For couples, this disconnection often leads to less pressure and fewer distractions.
In a world that rarely slows down, destination weddings offer a beautiful, intentional pause—a time to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with what matters most.
TL;DR
Destination weddings are on the rise in 2026, with couples opting for longer, more meaningful celebrations abroad. Here’s why more couples are saying “I do” overseas:
Luxury + Travel = One Investment – Combine your wedding, honeymoon, and dream trip into one seamless experience.
Intentional Guest Lists – Smaller weddings abroad naturally create more meaningful, intimate gatherings.
Social Media Inspiration – Beautiful destinations like Italy and Tulum are trending, and planning is easier than ever with online resources and planners.
Unique Cultural Venues – From Tuscan villas to Lisbon castles, your venue becomes a part of the story.
A Chance To Disconnect - Destination helps your brain slow down to enjoy everything special about your big day.
Final Thoughts
At Claudia and Co, we understand that wedding planning can be overwhelming, especially when you’re designing a destination wedding. That's why we're here to guide you through the process! Let us help you create the wedding of your dreams, without the stress of managing every detail on your own. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start planning a memorable, meaningful celebration in the destination of your dreams. We’re here to bring your vision to life!