How Much Does a Wedding in Greece Cost? Budget & Smart Tips
Planning a wedding in Greece sounds like a dream — but what about the budget?
Good news: getting married in Greece is often more affordable than you think. Thanks to a lower cost of living than in Western Europe and a wide range of venue and vendor options, it’s absolutely possible to plan a beautiful wedding in Greece on a reasonable budget — without sacrificing style, quality or guest experience.
In this guide, we’ll explain what costs to expect and share expert tips to help you optimize your budget while still creating a magical celebration.
Can a wedding in Greece be cheaper than in your home country?
Yes — and it’s one of the main reasons why more and more international couples are choosing Greece.
At the same level of service and quality, a wedding in Greece can cost significantly less than in places like France, the UK, the US or Switzerland.
For example: renting a large villa with a pool on the Athens Riviera or in Paros might cost less than a château near Paris. And local vendors — caterers, DJs, florists, photographers — often charge 20–30% less than their Western European counterparts, while delivering excellent results.
Costs are further reduced thanks to:
-
Lower labor costs in Greece
-
Cheaper wine, flowers, and seasonal products
-
Fewer taxes on certain services
Of course, you still need to factor in travel and accommodation for you and your guests. But many couples balance this out by reducing the guest list (destination weddings tend to be smaller by nature), or by allocating more of the budget to what truly matters.
Bottom line: the value for money in Greece is exceptional — you can host a high-end wedding in a stunning location, for less than a similar event at home.
Example Budgets by Wedding Size
Your total budget depends on your vision, guest count and the venue/location you choose.
Here are some realistic budget ranges based on recent weddings we’ve planned:
- Intimate wedding (20–30 guests): from ~€15,000
With a budget of €15,000, you can organize a charming intimate wedding on a Greek island or on the Athens coast.
This typically includes:
-
Ceremony + dinner venue (e.g. a sea-view terrace or private villa)
-
Traditional Greek dinner for ~30 guests (buffet or plated)
-
Local drinks
-
Local photographer
-
Basic florals and decoration
-
Wedding planner coordination
Choosing a less touristy island than Santorini can stretch your budget further, allowing you to create a meaningful and stylish wedding for a smaller group.
- Mid-size wedding (50–100 guests): ~€25,000–€50,000
In this range, you can plan a more ambitious celebration:
-
Private villa or 4/5-star hotel with panoramic views
-
Fine dining menu and professional catering
-
Full floral design
-
Live band or DJ
-
Cocktail reception, dinner, open bar and entertainment
For example, a €30,000 budget can cover a 70-person wedding in Crete or Rhodes, with all major components included.
If your budget reaches €50,000, you can create a spectacular experience for 100+ guests, with extras like a beach ceremony, fireworks, or a private chef.
Note: In destinations like Santorini or Mykonos, expect to spend closer to the top of the range. Islands like Crete, Paros or Serifos offer the same magic, at a much lower cost.
- Luxury wedding (100+ guests): from ~€60,000 and up
Planning a large or ultra-luxurious wedding in Greece? Count on a starting budget of €60,000.
With €80,000–€100,000, you could:
-
Rent out a boutique hotel for 2–3 days
-
Offer a gourmet dinner by a Michelin-starred chef
-
Create elaborate floral installations
-
Hire a famous band or DJ
-
Organize guest experiences (boat trips, transfers, group activities)
This level of wedding is rare, but unforgettable — a true “princess moment” where anything is possible. Popular venues for high-end weddings include:
-
Luxury estates on the Athens Riviera
-
Private beaches in Mykonos
-
Iconic hotels with caldera views in Santorini
Each budget level opens the door to more customization and comfort.
We’ll tailor your plan according to what matters most to you — whether that’s food, décor, guest care or the party.
Main Factors That Influence the Budget
Here’s what impacts the overall cost of your wedding in Greece:
- Number of guests
This is the most important factor.
More guests = larger venue, more food and drink, more tables, more décor.
If you’re budget-conscious, consider a smaller, more intimate wedding — it’s more personal and easier to manage financially.
-Location
Touristy destinations like Santorini or Mykonos are beautiful, but expensive — for venues, accommodation, and services.
Lesser-known islands or the Greek mainland offer better value for money.
For example, a wedding in Santorini may cost 30% more than the same celebration in Paros or Crete.
- Season and day of the week
High season (June–August) and Saturdays are the most expensive.
By choosing a weekday wedding, you can save up to 30–50% on many local services.
Likewise, May and October often come with lower venue and hotel prices, while still offering pleasant weather.
And your guests? If they truly want to be there, they’ll make it happen — even on a weekday.
- Style of the event
A relaxed beachside buffet will cost less than a formal seated dinner with fine linens and waitstaff.
Hiring a local DJ is cheaper than flying in a live band.
Focus on what matters most to you: creating an atmosphere and experience, not just luxury on every line item.
A Greek barbecue can be just as magical as lobster — as long as there’s love and joy at the table.
- Guest costs
Are you covering certain guest expenses (like hotel, transfers, meals)?
Some couples offer extras like welcome dinners, island tours or group transport. These thoughtful touches add cost — but they’re optional.
Just be clear with your guests so they know what’s included.
- Wedding planner
Yes, a planner has a cost — whether it’s a flat fee or percentage of your budget.
But we can also save you time, money and stress by:
-
Avoiding hidden fees
-
Securing better deals from trusted vendors
-
Helping you prioritize where to spend and where to save
We offer flexible packages: day-of coordination, partial planning or full-service wedding design.
Smart Ways to Save Without Losing the Magic
Here are some of our best-tested tips to help you make the most of your budget:
- Keep it small
Quality over quantity. Invite just your closest family and friends — and you’ll enjoy deeper moments and a richer experience.
- Villa vs hotel
Renting a large villa can save money if you and some guests share it. It also creates a more relaxed and private vibe.
- One venue for everything
Choose a multi-purpose venue that can host both the ceremony and reception.
It simplifies logistics and reduces transport and décor duplication.
- Be flexible with your date
Take advantage of off-season deals in May or October. Many vendors offer discounts or extras (free welcome drinks, room upgrades, etc.) if you book in shoulder season.
- Smart attire choices
Bring your wedding dress and suits on the plane (in a cabin garment bag or protected luggage).
Avoid overly bulky gowns — choose fabrics that suit the climate (linen, silk, chiffon).
And no need to fly in a stylist: we’ll help you find a talented local makeup artist and hairstylist.
- Simple, seasonal décor
Greece is naturally stunning — use the scenery!
Choose local flowers (bougainvillea, lavender, olive branches) for lower prices and a perfect fit with the landscape.
- Extend the celebration
A 2- or 3-day wedding weekend can actually be more cost-effective.
If you rent a venue for 48 hours, why not add a brunch, boat trip or pool party the next day?
Your guests will feel like they had a full vacation, not just a few hours of celebration.
Final Thought: It’s an Investment in Joy
Every wedding has a cost — but think of it as an investment in unforgettable memories.
Greece offers an unbeatable combination of beauty, authenticity and affordability.
Our job is to help you spend wisely, avoid unnecessary expenses, and create the best possible experience within your budget.
If there’s something you really care about — like a live singer or fireworks — we’ll help you make it happen.
If something doesn’t matter to you, no need to spend on it. The key is balance.
Yes, getting married in Greece can be budget-friendly — and even cost less than a traditional wedding back home — while offering so much more in return.
Let us guide you through it, stress-free, and help you plan the wedding you’ve always dreamed of… with peace of mind and sun on your skin.