We have been elopement and wedding photographers for almost a decade now. We document all kinds of love stories, but elopements were always our favorites. Even though we originate from Croatia, elopement photography took us all around Europe, so we shot elopements in Switzerland, Scotland, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Slovenia, and more. But there are not many places in Europe as popular as Dubrovnik, so in this article, we are going to write about the Dubrovnik elopement. After all, Dubrovnik is the place we work most at, and it’s one of the most famous destinations for elopements in Europe.
Most of the elopements in Croatia are happening in Dubrovnik. It’s the most famous and most romantic city in Croatia, and it’s no wonder that so many people choose to get married here. Once you see the images online or visit Dubrovnik, you’ll immediately fall in love with its preserved medieval architecture, stunning views, coastline, and Adriatic Sea. Eloping in Dubrovnik can really feel like a real fairytale. Stick to the end of this article, and we’ll share a lot of useful information with you. Also, if you want to learn more about us and our elopement photography work, you can do so on our dedicated Croatia elopement photography website.
Let’s see what’s so special about the elopements!
Why Choose to Elope in Dubrovnik?
We already said that Dubrovnik is one of the most romantic cities in Europe, and as such, it’s a dream destination for many couples who choose it for their elopement each year. Dubrovnik really has that special vibe, and it’s such a photogenic city. Not everything is perfect, though, and we want to be honest with you. The only downside of Dubrovnik we can think of right now is the fact that it can get a bit crowded during the peak season. But this is the case for many other elopement destinations, too, and we were able to find a solution to this problem. At least when it comes to the elopement photography in Dubrovnik.
So here are just a few reasons why we believe that Dubrovnik is a perfect destination for elopements in Croatia:
1. A Cinematic Setting Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it was used as the filming location for Game of Thrones and other popular series and movies. It doesn’t matter if you’re a fan of this show (we have never watched it), the Old Town feels like a living movie set. It’s full of historic architecture, stunning views, and some of the best sunsets you’ll ever see.
2. Intimate Corners in a Grand City Dubrovnik is the most popular destination in Croatia, but it’s still possible to find quiet places that are perfect for a private elopement ceremony. Early mornings and shoulder seasons are the best time of the year to get married in Dubrovnik.
3. A Perfect Mix of Sea and Stone Not so many cities can offer the combination of ancient stone architecture and stunning seaside views as Dubrovnik can. You can choose to elope by the sea, inside a fortress, or on a panoramic viewpoint above the city.
4. Easy Access The great thing about Dubrovnik is the fact that it’s easy to reach. The city has its own international airport and is well-connected with other European cities. Once you reach the city, pretty much everything is within walking distance, or at least very close. You don’t need to travel far to reach some stunning places.
5. Romantic Accommodations and Dining Some of the perks of being such a developed tourist destination can be seen in a wide variety of options when it comes to dining and accommodations. You can choose from luxury villas to boutique hotels located within the city walls. Regarding food? Think candlelit terraces, fresh seafood, and top Croatian wines.
6. Great activities and day trip options Elopement in Dubrovnik means freedom. This kind of wedding is not a stiff one and usually includes you and your partner. Everything is customizable, and elopements usually include some additional activities such as a sunset boat ride or zipline above the city. And Dubrovnik offers a lot when it comes to elopement-friendly activities you and your partner will love.
Best Dubrovnik Elopement Venues
Elopement venues in Dubrovnik are among the most beautiful ones in the whole of Croatia. And the best thing about the elopements is the fact that there are many more places to elope in Dubrovnik than are available for larger weddings. When it comes to elopements, we really can’t find any downside. In the following section, we are going to mention just a few most popular locations for a Dubrovnik elopement. There are also many more others, and, in case you choose Love and Ventures for your elopement photographer, we help you to find the best elopement venue for you.
Fort Lovrijenac This unique fortress rises above the sea on a rocky cliff and has some of the most breathtaking views of Dubrovnik. It’s a popular spot for private weddings and elopements thanks to its privacy and cinematic setting.
Old Port / Porporela Pier A romantic setting for a waterfront ceremony, especially during golden hour. The view of the city from this place is stunning. This is a great place for elopements outside of the peak season.
Lokrum Island Located just a 10-minute boat ride away, Lokrum Island is a green, lush paradise. It’s a car-free island with botanical gardens, ruins, and peacocks. Perfect Dubrovnik elopement venue for anyone who loves nature and history. You can elope either in the ruins of the old monastery or on the amazing rocks with the Adriatic Sea as the backdrop.
Mount Srđ The panoramic view of Dubrovnik from Mount Srđ is unbeatable, especially at sunset. That’s why many couples who want to elope in Dubrovnik choose it as their ceremony location. Some of the locations on Srđ can get crowded, but we know a special place with the best view of Dubrovnik that is a bit more private.
Park Orsula Overlooking Dubrovnik from nearby cliffs, Park Orsula is a breathtaking spot for a secluded ceremony with panoramic views of the Adriatic and the city. The best thing about it is the fact that Park Orsula can be privatised, so you know there will be no surprise guests for your elopement in Dubrovnik.
Elaphiti Islands These peaceful islands with lush nature are located near Dubrovnik, and they are full of hidden beaches and charming seaside villages. They are accessible by a short boat ride and offer many great natural locations for the elopement ceremony.
Legal vs. Symbolic Elopement in Dubrovnik
Getting legally married in Croatia is possible, but it requires some paperwork, translations, and coordination with local offices. For many couples, the easier and more flexible route is to have a symbolic elopement ceremony in Dubrovnik and complete the legal marriage back home. It’s also something we would suggest you consider. Not only will it be cheaper, but symbolic ceremonies are way more interesting and can be customized according to your preferences.
If you still want to have a legal ceremony in Dubrovnik, here are some things to consider:
Begin planning at least two months in advance
Documents must be translated and apostilled
Civil ceremonies are usually conducted by a registrar
Best Time of Year for a Dubrovnik Elopement
Dubrovnik is most visited during the hot summer months. We get it – it’s sunny, the sea is perfect for swimming, everything is so vibrant. But summer is the worst period for elopements and weddings, too. If you really want to have your Dubrovnik elopement during summer, know that it can be done, but it will require some planning to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
Here’s what to expect out of each part of the year when it comes to elopement in Dubrovnik:
May to June and September to early October are the best periods: expect pleasant temperatures, less crowded streets, and beautiful light for photography.
July and August are peak tourist months. It’s still doable, but plan early morning or off-the-beaten-path elopements.
Winter (November to March) is a very quiet period in Dubrovnik, but it is romantic in its own way. On the other hand, many venues and services may be closed or limited, so it’s not a commonly chosen part of the year for eloping.
Tips for a Perfect Dubrovnik Elopement
Finally, we are going to end this article about Dubrovnik elopement with a few general tips that will help you plan your dream day. If you visit our main elopement website, you’ll find much more useful information that will help you in the planning process, so make sure to do so after you’ve read this article.
Book a Local Photographer and/or Videographer That’s us. Or any other photographer whose work you like. They’ll know the light, the hidden spots, and the best timing to avoid Dubrovnik crowds. In our case, apart from being Dubrovnik elopement photographer and videographer, we also help you to plan the whole day, set the timeline, and connect you with local vendors such as florists, musicians, symbolic officiants…
Hire a Local Planner or Coordinator If you want to have a civil wedding ceremony in Dubrovnik, we suggest hiring a local planner to help you with the paperwork. In our case, we also help you with the whole process, but there are other planners that we can connect you with.
Avoid Midday Ceremonies The light is harsh, and the crowds are thickest. There are no reasons whatsoever why someone would have elopement in Dubrovnik at these hours, especially during the summer months. Early morning or just before sunset is the best time to get married in Dubrovnik.
Wear Comfortable Shoes Dubrovnik’s Old Town is entirely in stone and full of stairs. Walking in heels can be tricky, so opt for elegant flats or block heels, at least for the part of the day.
Celebrate in Style Book a private boat tour, enjoy a dinner by the sea, or have a sunset picnic on Lokrum. Elopement doesn’t mean minimal, it means personal, with a focus only on you and your partner.
Stay Inside the City Walls If you want the full immersive experience of Dubrovnik, book a night or two within the Old Town. Or at any bit more luxurious accommodation option in Dubrovnik. Your great day deserves a great stay.
Before You Venture to Elope in Dubrovnik
So, are you going to elope in Dubrovnik, or are you more of a large wedding person? Since you are reading these lines, we are sure that you’re actively thinking about eloping abroad. We hope that we have presented Dubrovnik in a useful way for you so you can put it on your list of potential elopement locations. It’s truly a great location that many couples choose. Start planning as early as possible and head to our Croatia & Dubrovnik elopement photography and planning website.
See you in Dubrovnik!