An Ultimate Guide To A Dream Destination Wedding in Switzerland

So, you have a ring on your finger and some big plans for your destination wedding. Now, the very first thing you need to decide is where on earth you want to go. If rolling hills, crystal clear water, and historic castles call to you, then Switzerland must be the place! As a wedding photographer in Switzerland, I am passionate about working with couples all across the globe to plan their weddings. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a destination wedding in Switzerland!

The Ultimate Guide for Hosting Your Dream Destination Wedding in Switzerland

Why You Should Have a Switzerland Destination Wedding

One of the questions I hear a lot is: Why should I have my destination wedding in Switzerland? If you find yourself wondering the same thing, it’s time to pull up a seat while I tell you what makes this country so perfect for your wedding. 

First of all, this is a place that is breathtaking all year long. Throughout the warmer months, the world comes alive with green mountains and colorful flowers. During this season, the cities are the place to be! The bright buildings give you a picture perfect backdrop for everything from your wedding portraits to just sipping coffee out on a balcony. Then, during the winter months, the mountains are covered in snow, making it the ideal spot for skiers and snowboarders. 

This brings me to my next point. There is simply so much to do in this country! When you plan a destination wedding, you don’t want to pick a spot where you and your guests are going to sit around bored throughout the weekend. Switzerland has something for everyone, from history lovers to thrill seekers. It’s impossible to run out of things to do! 

Last but not least, the central location offers unparalleled convenience and style. Switzerland is located right in the heart of Europe, and many of the neighboring influences effortlessly reach across. You can find French châteaux or Italian villas for your wedding venues. The location also makes it easy to hop on a train and see the neighboring countries throughout your stay. 

How Much Do Weddings in Switzerland Cost?

The first thing you need to consider when planning your destination wedding is the cost in Switzerland. For better or worse, Switzerland tends to be one of the most expensive countries in which to get married. This is due to the high-end accommodations, luxurious venues, and exceptional cuisine. Just remember: your wedding is completely customizable. If you want to make it work, there are always ways to drive down costs so you can still have your dream wedding. 

One of the first things you will book for your wedding is your venue, and many of them will require event planning services (this is pretty much a necessity for destination weddings anyway). These two things can range from a few thousand USD to tens of thousands. 

From there, you will want to consider things like: 

• Accommodations for your guests
• Guest transportation
• Catering
• Entertainment
• Dresses and suits
• Flowers
• Legal Paperwork (we’ll get to this soon)
• A photographer and a videographer. 

When all is said and done, most couples tend to pay $40’000 to $50’000 on average. However it also depends if you are having an intimate celebration (10-20 guests) or a bigger wedding.

When to Have Your Destination Wedding in Switzerland

As I mentioned earlier, each season in this country can be pretty darn beautiful. It’s just a matter of finding the one that matches the vibes you want for your wedding day. Here’s what you can expect throughout each season: 

Spring (April through June)

Spring really is such a wonderful time in Switzerland. The snow starts to melt, and bright green grass is beginning to take its place. When you travel up toward the mountains, you can still get the iconic snow caps as your backdrop, but you won’t have to face the freezing temperatures to get them. You also don’t get the same crowds as you would face during the summer months. While this season is nearly perfect, it can be a little unpredictable, and it’s not uncommon to face chilly weather during this time. This can make it hard to plan an outdoor wedding. The closer you get to summer, the better chances you have of escaping the freezing temps. 

Summer (July through September)

Throughout the summertime, Switzerland becomes downright gorgeous with perfect temps and green mountains. If you have been considering an outdoor destination wedding, this is the season to do it! Because the weather during the summer is so perfect, it tends to be the busiest season. If you do choose this time for your wedding, you will have to deal with things like fast-filling venues and vendor dates, as well as tons of crowds.

Autumn (October through November)

If you love lots of vibrant weather and cooler weather, autumn is your time to shine! The season is absolutely amazing, with leaves transforming all across the Alps. Because the summer break is over, you also see far fewer crowds than you would during the summer. It’s both intimate and picture-perfect. Just note that the weather can get pretty chilly throughout this season, and the closer you get to the end of November, the more you’ll have to deal with freezing temps. 

Winter (December through March)

Last but not least is winter. Words cannot express just how stunning this season is! The entire area is covered in a thick layer of snow, and there are so many ways to explore! Taking a ski lift up through the Alps is an absolute must! If you do choose this season for your wedding, there are a few things you need to know: when I say it gets cold, I mean it. You have to be prepared for extremely frigid weather and will need to pack accordingly. This also means all the venues are indoor only for your ceremony. Lastly, travel disruptions are not unheard of. Be ready to have a few backup options and stay flexible throughout. 

Where to Get Married During Your Destination Wedding in Switzerland

The very next question is where to get married. I have gotten the chance to tour venues all across Switzerland, and it can be hard to narrow them down. While you can check out my blog and this post to see more great options, here are some of my favorites! 

Fairmont Le Montreux Palace

Fairmont Le Montreux Palace is a luxury hotel decorated in the classic Belle Epoque style. The hotel offers 236 rooms and suites, so you have the perfect destination to stay in the days leading up to your Switzerland wedding. The hotel features 12 venues with settings such as grand ballrooms with hand-painted walls, decadent crown molding, and crystal chandeliers to pull it all together. Their culinary team is staffed by experts ready to work with you to create your dream meal. While all of this is more than enough for your perfect wedding, the view from this waterfront hotel is what takes it over the top! This Swiss Riviera hotel is able to host up to 700 guests.  

Château Chillon

If castles are more your thing, I think you are going to fall head over heels for Château Chillon. This 13th-century castle is located on an island in Veytaux and has been the subject of a number of paintings. It even inspired the castle in the animated version of The Little Mermaid. The venue offers several event spaces where you can host up to 232 people, including staff. These rooms are breathtaking, with towering ceilings, oak columns, and coffered ceilings. The venue has a list of preferred caterers, so you can create the best meal for your day! 

Hotel Splendide

If you are looking for incredible food as well as an unforgettable view, you might want to check out Hotel Splendide. This luxury hotel is located on the shores of Lake Ceresio and overlooks the crystal clear blue waters as well as the rolling mountains. Throughout your stay, you will be spoiled with a large and comfortable suite as well as a world-renowned spa. This venue offers a number of wedding locations, including a terrace overlooking the water and several Belle Epoque ballrooms. Their culinary team will be there every step of the way, creating exceptional food. With this venue, you can accommodate up to 300 guests. 

Huus Gstaad Hotel

HUUS Gstaad Hotel is the ideal place for adventurers! The Switzerland wedding venue puts you right in the heart of the mountains and has all the gear you could need to hit the slopes in the winter. As the weather heats up, you can rent out their bikes or check out the hiking trails. The staff is knowledgeable about the area and will work with you to plan your adventure throughout your stay. The interior is cozy and moody, with dark colors accented by lodge furniture. For your wedding, you will be able to host up to 130 guests. Their culinary team will work with you to create a diverse menu for your celebration! 

The Oberhofen Castle

Oberhofen Castle is another 13th-century castle with a rich history! This water castle is located in Canton of Bern and offers the perfect backdrop for your storybook wedding. Much of the castle was renovated in the early 20th century, offering you styles through nearly every era. You can get married beneath the hand-painted murals in the 15th Century Castle Chapel or tie the knot in the vibrant gardens. There are also a few event halls for your reception. The venue can host up to 100 guests, and you can bring in your own catering. 

Beau-Rivage Palace

Beau-Rivage Palace is a hotel like a few others! This Lausanne hotel offers suites with private balconies where you can sip your morning coffee while gazing out at the surrounding lake. The Alps are on full display here, giving you an epic backdrop all year long! The hotel features indoor ballrooms decorated in the Belle Epoque style. The white and pink tones will effortlessly work across nearly every wedding theme, while the stunning crystal chandeliers show off all the details of these spaces. The venue is able to host up to 600 guests, and they have wedding packages that will take care of everything for your wedding week. 

Hotel Villa Honegg

Hotel Villa Honegg is a destination hotel wedding venue located in the heart of Switzerland. This Ennetburgen hotel puts you nearly 1000 feet above sea level, giving you views you will treasure for the rest of your life! The boutique hotel features a terrace where you can host intimate celebrations outside, overlooking the mountains. Inside, you will find decor that draws inspiration from nature for a backdrop that celebrates your surroundings. For weddings with over 40 guests, they require exclusive hire of their facilities. With this option, you are going to have the entire grounds to yourselves, plus you will have the perfect spot for your guests to stay throughout the weekend! The venue can hold up to 70 guests for your wedding and 60 guests for your reception. 

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa is an Interlaken hotel with some seriously stunning interiors. The architecture is unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else. From the Art Deco spa to the extravagant Belle Epoque ballroom, this is a building you have to see to believe! They offer 22 individual rooms for your celebration as well as lush gardens ideal for outdoor celebrations. Throughout your wedding week, their team will spoil you! They offer in-house planning services, world-class catering, and wedding arrangements. With this hotel by your side, you will have the romantic wedding you’ve always wanted! 

Gstaad Palace

Last but certainly not least is the Gstaad Palace. This five-star hotel was built in 1913, drawing heavy influence from the other iconic castles around Switzerland. The exterior features turrets and spires that will make you feel as though you have just stepped out of a fairytale. While this hotel might have built its reputation on hosting some of the most renowned celebrities, it will ensure you have nothing short of the VIP treatment throughout your wedding week. The venue features a number of ballrooms with a capacity for up to 350 guests. They offer in-house services, including hair and makeup, catering, and even a patissier. Those who want to elevate their week can rent out the palace for exclusive use! 

The Legalities of Getting Married in Switzerland

Once you find your venue, it’s time to figure out all the legalities. If you are not a resident of Switzerland, this might require a visa. The rules can change based on your country of origin, so the very best thing you can do is visit your country’s embassy to figure out the rules ahead of time. Many couples choose to get married at home, either before or after the ceremony, and use the wedding service as a symbolic gesture. While this might be a little anticlimactic, it is the best way to ensure there are no legal hangups to your wedding! 

If you do decide to get married in Switzerland and are able to obtain the proper paperwork, you must provide birth certificates, passports, residency permits, and divorce decrees or death certificates (if necessary). The birth certificates must be translated into the local language of your wedding location. Once everything has been completed, you will receive approval within 5 weeks, and then, you can get married within 3 months. 

The country requires that you hold a civil marriage ceremony at the civil registry, regardless of your country of origin. This will be the legally binding union and will be done in the local language (you may need to hire a translator for this). You will also be required to have two witnesses over the age of 18.  

For those wondering, Switzerland does recognize LGBTQ+ weddings and has since 2021!

Accommodations for Guests During Your Destination Wedding in Switzerland

Where to Stay

From here, it’s time to work out the rest of the details! If you plan on using a hotel for your wedding, they will likely provide you with a wedding package that will include a stay on the grounds. If you are holding your marriage elsewhere, however, there are a number of legendary spots you will love! Just be sure you have a spot near your wedding location and provide your guests with a detailed list of how to reach your venue. 

• Bubble Suites: These pods were created to bring “glamping” to another level! You can find these suites all across the Alps. The domes give your guests panoramic views of the mountains while the sites offer all the modern accommodations they could need. 
• Lucerne: The area surrounding Lucerne is full of iconic hotels with some exceptional views. You can check out the art deco-style Hotel Luzern, the legendary Hotel Schweizerhof, or the 5-star Hotel National Lucerne. 
• Alp Lodges: Switzerland has so many boutique lodges where your guests can pair their stays with a side of adventure. Your guests will love modern options like Campra Alpine, Firefly Boutique Hotel, or Caschu Alp. 

Closest Airports

Switzerland has a few airports that offer international flights for your guests:

• Zurich Airport: located in north Switzerland, this is the most popular option. The airport offers domestic and local flights with other nearby transportation to get your guests to the necessary location.
• Geneva Airport: This one is located in western Switzerland near France. 
• Bern Airport: Located in central west Switzerland, this is the smallest one and serves the capital of the country. 

Local Food Locations to Try

Switzerland offers some of the best food in the entire globe, pulling influences from nearby locations such as France, Italy, and Germany. In fact, you can find over 500 Michelin-starred restaurants across the country! Here are a few of the most beloved restaurants around: 

• La Pinte Besson: This is the oldest restaurant in Lausanne, offering exceptional fondue in an iconic building. 
• Restaurant Balances: This Michelin-starred restaurant is located in Lucerne and uses some of the freshest ingredients for fine dining. 
• Sablier: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a modern take on French food while giving you a rooftop view of Zurich. 
• Spinella: Located in Geneva, this is the spot to check out authentic Italian dishes. 
• L’Agape: This is another Geneva restaurant. The Michelin-starred place offers its own twist on French dishes. 
• Hangar41: This Sion restaurant offers traditional Swiss food in a modern location. 
• Restaurant Luegibrueggli: This classic Interlaken restaurant offers traditional Swiss food with a legendary view of the Alps. 
• Brasserie VUE: Located in the Bellevue Palace in Bern, this is a meal you won’t forget any time soon! 

Things to Do in Switzerland During Your Destination Wedding

Once you have all the details worked out, it’s time to figure out your itinerary. Switzerland is full of amazing ways to explore the country. Here are a few of my recommendations: 

Check Out The Alps 

Throughout your stay, you have to find ways to get up in the mountains. How you do so is dependent on the season. Throughout the winter, you can go skiing or snowboarding. If hitting the slopes isn’t quite your thing, you can hop aboard a gondola and see the mountains from above. Once you are done exploring the snow, be sure to wind down in front of a fire! 

If you are here throughout the warmer months, Switzerland offers plenty of biking and hiking trails that will give you some unforgettable views. 

Hit The Spas

Swiss spas are some of the very best in the world, and you don’t want to miss out! Many of the hotels offer their own options, such as Grand Resort Bad Ragaz or Fortyseven in Baden. 

Get The Tolkien Experience 

Did you know that J.R.R. Tolkien drew inspiration for Bilbo’s journey while hiking through the Lauterbrunnen Valley? You can take the same walk and see some of the sites that showed up in his work! 

Take The Tissot Peak Walk

This is the only suspension bridge in the world that takes you between two mountaintops. Get ready to feel it sway as you walk across 107m!

Check Out The Lucerne Wooden Bridge 

While Lucerne is already incredible, the Kapellbrücke is a must! You can go out over Lake Lucerne and take in the town. 

See A Museum Or Two 

While Switzerland has all the standard museums, you can also check out a few unique options like the Saint Bernard museum or the Hoosesagg Museum featuring tiny exhibits, all of which can fit into a pants pocket. 

In addition to all these things, you can tour historic castles, drink at their famous pubs, and take train rides through the countryside. 

Hiring a Destination Wedding Photographer in Switzerland

When you are booking a destination wedding, the most important thing you can do is make sure you have a photographer to capture your adventure. Remember, this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, and you don’t want to risk it all slipping away the second the plane lands back on the tarmac. If you are looking for a Swiss photographer already familiar with the area, let’s have a conversation so you can see if I’m the right person for you. As a photographer, I love creating a laid-back experience that lets you focus on celebrating your love. If you are looking for authentic portraits amidst one of the most beautiful landscapes on earth, please reach out so you can see if I’m the right match! 

You Deserve A Destination Wedding in Switzerland That Dreams Are Made Of

I hope this guide helps you as you start to plan your destination wedding in Switzerland! And if you do think I am the right wedding photographer in Switzerland for your big day, I would love it if you sent me an inquiry! Let’s start planning soon! 

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