Iceland has quickly become one of the most sought-after destinations for couples who want to elope. With its breathtaking landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and dramatic volcanic vistas, it’s the ultimate place for a romantic, unforgettable wedding. But one question couples often ask is: how much does it actually cost to elope in Iceland for a 7-day trip?
In this blog post, we’re breaking down the expenses involved in eloping to Iceland for a week, so you can plan accordingly and make your dream Icelandic elopement a reality.
1. Flights
The cost of flights to Iceland can vary depending on your location, time of year, and when you book. If you book in the popular season, a round-trip flight from the U.S. to Keflavik, Iceland, can cost around $700 per person. If you’re traveling from Europe or other parts of the world, your flight costs may differ. Don’t make the mistake of thinking your flight will fly into Reykjavik. International flights, fly into Keflavik about 45 minutes south west of Reykjavik.
For budgeting purposes, let’s estimate the cost for two people:
- Flights for two: $1500
2. Accommodation
Iceland offers a range of accommodation options from budget hostels to luxurious boutique hotels. If you’re planning to stay in Reykjavik or nearby areas, expect to pay around $250 – $350 per night for a mid-range hotel. If you opt for an Airbnb or rental cabin, prices can vary, but you can generally expect to pay around $250 – $350 per night.
For a 7-night stay, here’s the cost breakdown for two people:
- 7-night stay in budget accommodations (e.g., Airbnb or guesthouses): $1750 – $2,450
3. Wedding Package
One of the biggest expenses when eloping is the cost of a wedding package. These packages typically include an officiant, photographer, floral arrangements, and sometimes even a cake. Depending on the level of service, prices for wedding packages in Iceland can range. The average wedding cost in the United States is $33,000, then add in the cost of your honeymoon on average is about $5,000. If you eloped, you would mix your wedding day in with your honeymoon, that sounds like a pretty sweet deal to me!
If you hire a photographer and officiant separately, expect to pay:
- Officiant: $500 – $1,000
- Photographer: $12,400-$18,800 (depending on the photographer’s experience and packages)
- Floral arrangements: $200 – $500
Total for a wedding package or combined services: $10,000 – $16,800
4. Transportation
Most couples eloping in Iceland will want to rent a car, especially if you’re planning to explore the countryside or want a private ceremony at one of Iceland’s beautiful remote locations. Be mindful that your flight will fly into Keflavik and you’ll want to rent your vehicle from Keflavik’s airport.
The cost of renting a car for 7 days is usually around $85 – $150 per day, depending on the type of car (a 4×4 might be necessary for certain areas). You should also budget for gas, which can be an additional $100 – $250 for a week of driving.
- Car rental for 7 days: $350 – $1,050
- Gas: $100 – $250
5. Activities and Excursions
Iceland is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there’s no shortage of amazing things to do during your trip. While many eloping couples opt for an adventure-filled itinerary, some of the most popular activities include:
- Blue Lagoon visit: $60 – $150 per person
- Ice Cave or Glacier Hike: $200-$300 per person
- Whale Watching: $100 – $150 per person
For two people, expect to spend around $500 – $1,500 for activities and excursions during your week-long stay.
6. Meals
While eating in Iceland can be a bit pricey, you can save money by shopping at grocery stores and cooking some meals yourself. On average, meals at restaurants will cost around $25-$35 per person for lunch and $40 – $60 per person for dinner.
For a 7-day stay, budgeting around $85- $100 per day for meals for two people is a reasonable estimate.
- Meals for two for 7 days: $595 – $700
7. Miscellaneous Expenses
Don’t forget to budget for other expenses such as souvenirs, tips, and small fees for attractions or activities not included in your package.
- Miscellaneous expenses: $100 – $300
Total Estimated Cost for a 7-Day Elopement in Iceland
When Joel and I went to Iceland, this is what we spent!
- Flights for two: $1600
- Accommodation for 7 nights: $1750
- Car rental and gas: $2,200 (we rented a 4×4 vehicle which was expensive)
- Activities and excursions: $800 (Ice cave tour, and Lava show)
- Meals for 7 days:$600 (we did go to the grocery store though!)
- Grocery Store Costs: $200
- Miscellaneous expenses: $100
Our Total: $7,250
Tips for Saving Money on Your Iceland Elopement
- Book in advance: Booking your flights, accommodations, and wedding package in advance can help you lock in lower rates.
- DIY meals: Buy groceries and cook your own meals to save money on dining out.
Conclusion
Eloping in Iceland for a 7-day trip is a unique and magical experience, but it can come with a significant price tag. With proper planning, it’s possible to have an incredible, unforgettable wedding experience in Iceland for around $7,250 to $16,000. The final cost will depend on your travel preferences, the photography package you decide on, the level of luxury you’re looking for, and the activities you want to enjoy. But no matter your budget, the beauty and romance of Iceland will make it worth every penny!
If you’re planning to elope in Iceland, be sure to carefully plan your trip and budget accordingly to ensure your Icelandic adventure is everything you’ve dreamed of!
My favorite Grocery store in Iceland: Bonus
Some of my most favorite places to eat: Strondin Pub
Black Crust Pizza