Elope in France: The Ultimate Guide to the Country of Romance
Dreaming of a fairytale elopement? France’s iconic cities, picturesque countryside, and luxurious beaches make it the perfect setting for an unforgettable elopement experience. So without further ado, grab a glass of sauvignon blanc, and let’s start our exploration through France.
By booking France for your elopement in 2025, we’ll add a FREE photoshoot! Learn more!
Reasons to Elope in France
Romance and Elegance
The country of France has a reputation for romance and sophistication which makes it the perfect choice for your destination elopement. The country is home to many of the world’s most romantic backdrops, such as the luscious lavender fields in Provence and the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris. With a blend of stunning landscapes, from the Mediterranean Islands to the towering mountains of the Alps, we’re positive you’ll have no trouble finding a dream elopement destination in France.
Acclaimed Cuisine & Wine
By choosing France as your elopement and perhaps even a honeymoon destination, you’ll have the opportunity to taste their world-class cuisine from freshly baked pastries from a local patisserie to eating at renowned Michelin restaurants, and celebrate your marriage with wine from a well-known vineyard with hundreds of years of tradition. Finish your dream wedding day in France by indulging in a romantic dining experience, just ask our experienced wedding planners for some lovely restaurant recommendations in your area.
Easy and Accessible Travel
By eloping in France you’ll be able to access endless honeymoon destinations! Whether you choose to travel to the other stunning vacation spots in France or venture out to the equally amazing countries that surround France, such as Spain, Italy, or Germany, you will be set up for an unforgettable experience. With major international airports and an efficient high-speed rail, travel is accessible and easy to navigate. If you want some guidance while planning your honeymoon, you’ll be happy to hear that Somewhere Crazy has a partnership with Salt & Wind Travel to make your honeymoon planning journey even more seamless.
The Language of Love
Eloping in France is the perfect excuse to brush up on your French! Not only is French referred to as the language of love but embracing the local culture and language is a wonderful way to form a greater connection to your elopement wedding destination.
France is also a country of inclusivity, making it a lovely choice for LGBT couples looking to elope in Europe.
Top Destinations for Eloping in France
Elope in Paris
Paris, the lively capital city of France offers an unparalleled setting for couples seeking a truly unforgettable wedding day. This enchanting city, synonymous with passion and romance, has been labeled the city of love for a good reason. With cobblestone streets, elegant architecture, and of course, iconic landmarks, getting married in Paris is truly a unique experience. Envision the magical moment of exchanging vows beneath the Eiffel Tower, followed by a leisurely boat ride along the Seine, passing under the city’s famous bridges. Somewhere Crazy’s Paris elopement packages can make this fantasy come true.
Beyond the beauty of Paris, is the cultural experience of the city that will make your special day even more memorable. Couples who elope in Paris can explore the endless museums and galleries that the city has to offer, such as the famed Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris, or even the Louis Vuitton Foundation. Make sure to take a stroll along the Quartier de Montmartre, known for its bohemian vibe with artistic touches and stunning views of the city. Don’t forget to end your perfect Paris city elopement with an indulgent meal full of authentic French food and wine.
Elope in Provence
If you are fantasizing about a fairytale countryside elopement, look no further than Provence. Located in the south of France, Provence is famous for its picturesque landscapes and historical villages. With expansive lavender fields, olive groves, vineyards, and mountains, Provence has a serene ambiance that is perfect for couples seeking an intimate wedding experience.
The region of Provence offers endless options for a unique elopement ceremony. Just imagine saying “I do” surrounded by vibrant lavender fields or in a medieval garden from the 12th century. For couples who enjoy a hike, exchange vows on top of Mont St. Victoire for stunning views of the area. After the ceremony, walk around the Provençal village of Gordes, where historic stone buildings sit perched on the cliffs and offer amazing views of Provence. The charming historical landmarks provide breathtaking photo opportunities, such as the Abbey of Senanque and the Church of Saint Fermin. If you plan to travel around, make sure to add the spectacular Aix-en-Provence, Uzes, and Eze to your travel itinerary. Make the trip extra special by adding wine tasting at local vineyards to your list.
Elope in the French Riviera
The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur combines glamor and coastal beauty making it the ideal location for couples envisioning a luxurious and dreamy beach elopement. The region along the Mediterranean coastline is famous for its scenic beaches, glamorous cities, and luxury resorts. There will never be a lack of breathtaking views of the French Riviera with the many beautiful cities it encompasses. These well-known cities include Cannes, Saint Tropez, and Nice but also some secret gems such as Cabasson and Bormes-les-Mimosas.
Can you picture it - eloping on the terrace of a French Chateau with views of the turquoise waters around you? After exchanging vows you could take a romantic cruise around the coast at sunset, admiring the rugged cliffs. Then, you could finish off your special day with a meal at a traditional restaurant and indulge in gourmet French dishes and desserts.
Other Destinations in France to Consider
Colmar
If you like Venice, you’ll love Colmar! It’s a dreamlike elopement destination in France for couples seeking an iconic elopement full of magic and charm. Its unique houses, cobblestone streets, and canals will make you feel like stepping into a fairy tale. Explore the Old Town and its vibrant colors, then take a stroll through the picturesque Little Venice district. Here, you can take a boat with your partner gliding along the canals and observing the charming, pastel homes with sweet balconies filled with flowers.
Colmar is located in the region of Alsace, known for its fine wines and delicious local cuisine. After enjoying a beautiful wedding day organized by yours truly, enjoy a private celebration with a glass of Riesling, paired with artisan cheeses and freshly baked Alsatian treats. Colmar’s romantic atmosphere, coupled with its accessibility and timeless beauty, makes it a wonderful setting for an unforgettable elopement.
Normandy
Normandy is another wonderful elopement location with its enchanting blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Enjoy the rugged coastlines, the romantic cliffs of Étretat, and its serene beaches. While in Normandy, you can visit charming villages, like Honfleur and Bayeux and of course, the iconic Mont Saint-Michel. This abbey is a UNESCO-protected site’s legend traces all the way back to 708, with the first construction in 966, a real historical treat. Then, explore winding village streets, filled with museums, restaurants, hotels, and shops.
Normandy's gastronomy adds another layer of allure, with world-class cheeses, cider, and fresh seafood. Its tranquil ambiance, combined with easy accessibility from Paris, makes Normandy a serene and wonderful choice for couples seeking a romantic, off-the-beaten-path wedding destination.
Eloping in Paris, France
Loire Valley
Right in the heart of France, the Loire Valley is an elopement destination that offers a blend of history, nature, and luxury. This hidden gem is for its grand châteaux, rolling vineyards, and idyllic countryside. If you're looking for a French chateau elopement, this is the region where you'll find gorgeous Renaissance castles surrounded by rich gardens and vineyards.
This French region is known for excellent wines and exquisite cuisine with charcuterie boards with meats and cheeses that will blow your mind. Another famous feature of the Loire Valley is saffron which has been famously grown here for years. The laid-back ambiance, combined with great delicacies, the region's rich heritage, and landscapes full of French chateaus, make Loire Valley the perfect French elopement destination.
The French Alps
If you love nature and adventure, then you should definitely consider The French Alps for your wedding elopement. With its dramatic mountain landscapes, alpine villages, and an abundance of outdoor activities, this region is the perfect place to say "I do" for active couples, Whether you choose the winter magic or the lush green beauty of summer, the Alps provide a stunning backdrop in every season.
From the peaks of Chamonix to the serene lakeside views in Annecy, and the elegance of Méribel, the French Alps offer a variety of stunning elopement destinations in France. You and your partner can enjoy world-class amenities, or opt for more private spots for your ceremony. The natural beauty of the Alps, combined with cozy mountain charm and plenty of options for an adventure, ensures that your elopement will be both romantic and extraordinary.
Do all of these options sound incredible? Take a look at our elopement packages in France to learn more.
Elope in Provence, France
Best Time of the Year to Elope in France
If you want to enjoy the warm weather on your elopement day without the peak summer crowds, June and September are ideal months to consider. During these times both Provence and the French Riviera bask in a Mediterranean climate: summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild with occasional rain. Paris, however, is situated further North, so its climate differs. It’s cooler year-round with no dry season, and rain showers are common in any month.
No matter what time of the year you choose to elope in France, there are endless activities to enhance your experience while visiting:
Summer: Sail through the sparkling waters of Saint-Tropez on a yacht, or explore the Basque coast for surfing and snorkeling adventures.
Spring: See the lavender fields in Provence in full bloom, or hike in the majestic Pyrenees for breathtaking views and fresh mountain air.
Autumn: Discover the rich flavors of French cheese and wine with a tasting at the vineyard of Bordeaux, where the fall colors will add a touch of dreaminess.
Winter: Enjoy the snowy magic of the French Alps by skiing in charming mountain towns like Chamonix.
France Elopement Packages and Services
Somewhere Crazy provides a stress-free approach to your wedding planning with our French elopement packages and experienced wedding planners. Our standard elopement package in France includes a wedding planner who will be with you throughout the entire planning process and will arrange everything and be in charge of crafting your wedding day itinerary. Also covered in our standard elopement package is a team of local vendors that we like to call your local “ Dream Team” who will provide you with everything needed on your special day. Your wedding day team will consist of an on-the-day coordinator, celebrant, photographer, and florist who are all dedicated to making your elopement in France as memorable as possible!
Somewhere Crazy also offers additional services that can be added to your package, such as videography, private transportation, boat rides, makeup and hair stylists, and more. There is also the option to upgrade your elopement package with our premium elopement experience, a two-day wedding experience that features award-winning internationally recognized photographers and a premium venue as well as a photoshoot on both days, a hand-crafted two-day itinerary, and more.
Would you like to book a complimentary call with one of our expert wedding planners? Inquire today!
