Planning a Wedding Abroad? Here’s Why France Should Be at the Top of Your List
Whether you dream of a château in the Loire Valley, a sun-drenched villa in Provence, or a coastal celebration on the French Riviera, France has it all. Known for its elegance, gastronomy, and breathtaking scenery, France is the ultimate destination for couples who want a wedding that’s not just beautiful, but unforgettable.
And contrary to what you may think, a destination wedding in France doesn’t require a millionaire’s budget. From intimate countryside estates to grand historic venues, France offers incredible options for every couple.
Why Choose France for Your Destination Wedding?
1. Diversity of Landscapes & Styles
France is more than Paris. You can get married in:
- Lavender fields of Provence
- Vineyards of Bordeaux or Burgundy
- Snowy Alps in Chamonix or Megève
- Châteaux of the Loire Valley
- Mediterranean coastlines in the South
- Charming villages in Alsace or Dordogne
This variety allows you to design a wedding that reflects your personality, whether it’s modern, rustic, royal, or relaxed.
Check this wedding for example, at the stunning Château de Charnizay.
2. Perfect for Every Budget
France offers venues for:
- Weddings under €10,000: ideal for elopements or intimate celebrations
- Mid-range budgets (€10,000–€20,000): balance of charm and luxury
- High-end celebrations (€20,000+): exceptional settings for large-scale or ultra-luxurious weddings
No matter your budget, the experience is elevated thanks to the French flair for beauty, food, and timeless moments.
3. Easy Access for International Guests
France is well-connected by air, train, and car. Major airports include:
- Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
- Lyon Saint-Exupéry
- Marseille Provence
- Nice Côte d’Azur
Most venues are within 1–3 hours from these hubs, and many offer on-site accommodations for guests.
4. World-Renowned Food and Wine
French weddings are feasts, literally. From multi-course dinners to wine pairings, pastry tables and cheese towers, your reception becomes a sensory experience. Guests talk about the food for years.
5. Professional Vendors & Dreamy Aesthetics
France is home to some of the most talented photographers, florists, planners, and designers in the wedding world. Whether you want editorial Vogue-style imagery or candid documentary moments, you’ll find someone to match your vision.
2. Best Wedding Venues in France by Budget
Under €10,000 – Beautiful & Budget-Friendly
Perfect for elopements, microweddings, or couples who want to focus more on intimacy than size.
- Abbaye Saint Eusèbe (Burgundy) – From €6,000 A peaceful, spiritual setting in a historic abbey surrounded by nature.
- Château de Sanse (Nouvelle-Aquitaine) – From €8,000 Cozy, intimate, and full of charm, ideal for small weddings among vineyards.
- Domaine d’Essendiéras (Dordogne) – From €8,800 Two charming châteaux with rolling countryside views, for an authentic rural experience.
€10,000–€20,000 – Refined Elegance Without Excess
Perfect for couples who want beauty and character without extreme luxury.
- Château Challain (Loire Valley) – From €16,000 A real-life fairy tale setting with towers, turrets, and luxury suites.
- Domaine du Rey (Occitanie) – From €13,000 A stunning, romantic backdrop with flexibility for different styles of weddings.
- Château La Tour Vaucros (Provence) – From €18,000 Elegant gardens and Provence charm near Avignon, ideal for summer weddings.
Over €20,000 – The Ultimate Luxury Wedding Experience
For couples who want the wow factor and an unforgettable guest experience.
- Château de Villette (near Paris) – From €25,000 A stately château just outside Paris, with ornate gardens and fine interiors.
- Domaine de Canaille (Cassis, French Riviera) – From €50,000 A private clifftop estate overlooking the sea—intimate, iconic, exclusive.
- Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild (Côte d’Azur) – From €111,000 A pink palace surrounded by themed gardens, with panoramic Riviera views.
You can find all these beautiful venues, get their contact and find all your other vendors on French Wedding Style.
3. FAQs for Planning a Wedding in France
- Do we need to speak French to get married in France?
No. Most vendors speak English fluently. Having a bilingual wedding planner can help simplify communication.
- Can we legally marry in France?
Only French residents can have a civil ceremony in France. Most international couples have the legal ceremony in their home country and the symbolic ceremony in France.
- What’s the best time of year to get married in France?
May to October is ideal. June and September offer the best balance of weather and availability.
- Is it really cheaper to get married in France than in the US or UK?
Yes, especially for luxury weddings. For example, a high-end château weekend with 50 guests may cost less in France than a similar-quality venue in the US or UK.
4. France Is More Than a Backdrop… It’s a Feeling
Getting married in France isn’t just about the venue or the view. It’s about the ambiance, the intentional moments, and the feeling of being fully present in a beautiful, timeless setting. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement or a grand soirée, France adapts to you—your story, your values, your style.
From vineyards to villas, rustic elegance to royal opulence, France is ready to host the celebration of your life.
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Exchange rate
1 EUR ≈ 1.17 USD
1 EUR ≈ 0.86 GBP
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