While some see destination weddings as being too expensive, there are plenty of options out there that can help you save money while enjoying your dream wedding amongst family and friends.
However, affordability doesn’t just cover how much vendors and suppliers cost on the surface – you’ll also need to consider how you can move money internationally, as exchange rates and hidden fees can erode your budget if you aren’t careful. That’s why comparing money transfer providers is an increasingly important part of wedding planning.
If you’re planning a destination wedding in 2026 from the UK, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the world’s top affordable wedding destinations for 2026. Remember that the cost of your wedding will ultimately depend on the number of guests you want to invite, the venue and the style. Having said this, these countries all offer the potential for a fantastic overseas wedding without breaking the bank.
Portugal
From budget-friendly restaurants to ocean-view venues, Portugal has plenty to offer to couples who want sand and sea mixed with a classy wedding experience. With lower food, travel and accommodation costs than other countries in Europe, there are plenty of options for those seeking out a budget but beautiful wedding.
The Algarve, situated in the south of the country, offers stunning golden beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs and sea caves, making it a perfectly scenic spot to celebrate a wedding. However, wedding venues in the northern part of the country, such as in Porto and Guimaraes, are often cited as having more affordable costs than elsewhere. You can also look for locations in Northern Portugal’s Douro Valley, famed for its stunning terraced vineyards carved into the hillsides along the Douro river.
Spain
Spain is another solid budget wedding destination option for UK couples, with low travel costs and a huge range of venue options. Flights are frequent from the UK while accommodation ranges from budget hotels to affordable villas, many of which can be accessed from urban transport hubs.
For more budget friendly options, look outside cities and more to the countryside. Many online wedding planners point to venues inland, particularly in the Catalonian countryside – see for example Masia Font de la Reina, a 15th-century mansion surrounded by rolling hills with prices starting from €3,000 (£2,627). Other wedding websites point to fincas (country estates) in Mallorca, such as this beautiful 13th-century property available from £6,000.
Cyprus
Cyprus is another favourite destination for UK couples wanting beautiful venues situated alongside beaches, gardens and vast resorts. The country houses a number of ready-made wedding packages, with many hotels and resorts offering fixed-price options including ceremony and in some cases catering.
Paphos, a coastal city on Cyprus’ southwest coast, is known for its rich history and UNESCO World Heritage sites. It also offers more affordable venues, from quiet villas with amazing views of the sea to a 16th-century stone-walled farmstead set in peaceful gardens. Another popular option is nature-rich Protaras, a resort town in Eastern Cyprus that is home to a wealth of hotels offering sun-soaked terraces and in-house hospitality perfect for a romantic getaway.
Malta
Located in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is known for its ancient temples, the UNESCO-recognised walled capital of Valletta and delicious blend of Mediterranean cuisines. It also sees a warm climate across the whole year, making it perfect for couples looking for the ideal outdoor wedding.
The islands provide an array of different venue options, from 17th-century palazzos to baroque-style villas, with many offering experiences that are just as good as similar locations in France or Italy but at a much lower cost. Being a small island means that vendors are competitive on pricing, making it easier to snag a potential deal.
Tips for making your wedding more affordable
While location is one thing, there are plenty of cost considerations for getting married abroad. Here are some tips on ways that you can help keep your destination wedding budget-friendly.
- Get married at off-peak times: Vendors in other countries ramp up prices in peak seasons. Look for “shoulder” seasons (travel periods between peak and off-peak seasons), or consider getting married on a weekday to get better rates on venues and accommodation.
- Cut the number of guests: It can be tough, but culling guests is the best way to cut travel and catering costs, as well as the size of your venues – it can also be a great way to get a more intimate feel.
- Source all-inclusive packages: Hotels and venues may offer discounts and deals on packages bundle venues, catering and other services together.
- Use local vendors: Aside from avoiding import costs, buying flowers and entertainment locally can make your wedding more authentic. Consider working with a well-trusted wedding planner, which could be a sensible investment if they are able to source the best product for less.
- Compare money transfer providers: When you’re paying vendors abroad, exchange rates and hidden fees can stack up and create hefty bills you weren’t expecting – thankfully, you can compare money transfer providers to help keep additional currency exchange costs to a minimum with FXcompared.
- Consider a symbolic wedding to cut legal costs: By doing a cheaper legal ceremony at home and making the ceremony ‘symbolic’, you could avoid a whole host of complexities and added fees.
- Book accommodation together: Some hotels might give you a discount for booking rooms in blocks, which your guests will appreciate.
Compare money transfer providers for your dream destination wedding today
Budgeting for a destination wedding abroad can be stressful, and the last thing you want is to be paying additional exchange rates and hidden fees when paying vendors. With FXcompared, you can compare money transfer providers and save money when paying hotels and suppliers abroad, while ensuring they get their payment on time.
Compare money transfer providers today, or read our full guide for planning a destination wedding here.
