how to elope in ireland

The Ultimate Guide for eloping in Ireland [updated for 2026]

Is elopement right for us?

An elopement is first and foremost a deeply personal celebration: an intimate wedding designed to be centered on the two of you, far removed from the constraints of large receptions, guest lists, and traditional logistical stress.

Choosing to elope means prioritizing authenticity, the moment, genuine emotion, and connection—whether you envision a romantic ceremony on the edge of a cliff or a tranquil exchange of vows on a hilltop, elopement in Ireland offers incredible freedom.

This format is ideal for couples seeking a meaningful experience, sometimes an adventurous elopement, where the wild landscape becomes the backdrop for your love. By eliminating traditional constraints, you can fully experience your day according to your desires, values, and story, while creating lasting memories—a truly unique wedding.

Why elope to ireland?

I ) When to go: the best season for an elopement in ireland

Ireland is an island where the seasons are strongly reflected in the landscapes: the greens of the hills are deeper in spring and summer, while autumn brings softer, more cinematic hues.

Generally, May, June, September, and early October are often cited as the most favorable months—offering soft light, long days, and pleasant weather.
However, keeping in mind that the weather can be changeable is essential: this capricious nature is also what makes elopement photos here so beautiful.

If your vision is a dramatic atmosphere, even a cloudy sky or a light drizzle can enhance the mood of your day. Planning an elopement in Ireland also means embracing this variability—which is often an integral part of the unique and unforgettable experience that many couples seek.

II ) What are the best regions to get married in ireland?

Ireland is brimming with contrasting and incredible landscapes, perfect for a multi-day wedding. In the west, rugged cliffs, secluded islands, and wild beaches inspire adventurous couples.

To the north, dramatic coastlines and verdant hills invite ceremonies atop breathtaking scenery.
In the east, the capital city offers more urban and intimate options, ideal for a cozy Dublin wedding that blends heritage, culture, and conviviality.

The central-southern and southwest regions feature ancient forests, lakes, and tranquil mountains. Each region offers a unique palette of settings—whether your dream is exchanging vows by the ocean, in the heart of a national park, or surrounded by the city and its traditions, Ireland offers exceptional diversity to personalize your elopement to your heart's content.

Click on a photo or its title to learn more about it

The Skellig Islands, off the southwest coast of Ireland, offer a secluded, almost mystical setting for a truly unique elopement. Their rugged beauty, challenging access, and dramatic atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for incredible photos and a ceremony that feels completely removed from the world.

The boat trip adds an unparalleled sense of adventure, ideal for couples seeking an adventurous elopement where every moment is imbued with authenticity.

While access is weather-dependent, the visual and emotional rewards are often well worth the effort. You'll be surrounded by dramatic cliffs, powerful seas, and a 360° view of the Atlantic: a spectacular setting that will make your intimate wedding utterly unforgettable.

I) skellig islands

For those who wish to combine nature, culture, and history, Dublin is a perfect option for an intimate wedding or an essential stop on your Irish elopement. The Irish capital combines streets steeped in history, vast parks, and a vibrant energy that can make your day as sweet as it is festive.

There are gardens and public spaces perfect for a discreet ceremony, as well as charming architectural nooks for sophisticated portraits. Dublin also allows you to incorporate more urban elements into your story—cozy cafes for reunions, historic locations for iconic photos, and lively musical atmospheres in the evening.

It's a city where history meets modernity, ideal for a couple seeking a balance between natural adventure and cultural celebration.

II) dublin

County Donegal represents one of the most authentically wild places in Ireland, with its verdant hills, deserted beaches, and winding roads leading to spectacular vistas. The Sturrall is a perfect example of these secluded landscapes where you can experience nature in its purest form.

Here, your Irish elopement unfolds in a spectacular setting, far from the crowds, where the wind, sea spray, and vast horizons create an immersive experience.

The photos taken here capture this feeling of infinity and intimacy — an intimate wedding set within the grandeur of nature. It’s an ideal choice for a couple who dream of dramatic scenery, a sense of complete escape, and a venue that reflects the depth of their commitment.

III) the sturrall, co. donegal

Murder Hole Beach is one of Ireland’s most visually stunning beaches, renowned for its dramatic rock formations and powerfully crashing waves. For those envisioning their ceremony with the Atlantic Ocean as their witness, this beach offers a powerful and poetic setting.

An elopement here is both intimate—as the area is often uncrowded—and visually grand. The colors, the changing light, and the rhythm of the waves create a perfect environment for portraits that exude authenticity. It is a place where your intimate wedding blends into the raw nature, creating visual memories that are as intense as they are symbolic.

IV) murder hole beach

Achill Island, off the west coast, is another iconic elopement destination in Ireland. With its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and scenic coastal roads, it offers a variety of breathtaking settings.

Whether you choose a secluded beach for your ceremony or a stunning seaside viewpoint for your portraits, Achill combines tranquility with natural splendor.

It’s an incredible choice for couples seeking a timeless experience: here, the stillness of the ocean and the surrounding greenery create a gentle, contemplative atmosphere, perfect for an intimate wedding surrounded only by what truly matters—your love and nature.

V) achill island

The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see for anyone dreaming of a spectacular wedding location in Ireland. These cliffs, towering over 200 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, offer a dramatic and memorable backdrop for a ceremony, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light magnifies every contour of the rock.

Here, the wind, the changing colors of the sky and the immensity of the ocean create an almost cinematic scene. It's the perfect option for couples who want breathtaking images and a truly memorable experience.

An elopement in Ireland at the Cliffs of Moher combines power, natural beauty, and moments that will be cherished forever.

VI) cliffs of moher

Connemara National Park is a prime location for those dreaming of an elopement in Ireland amidst wild and serene landscapes. Its mountains, tranquil lakes, and endless trails make it the perfect setting for a more intimate celebration in nature.

Here, every corner offers a new perspective: panoramas of misty hills, verdant meadows stretching as far as the eye can see, and tranquil rivers where the light plays delicately. This park is perfect for a couple wishing to unite their love in an enchanting, almost mystical environment, where nature becomes an integral part of every moment. A wedding here exudes simplicity, pure beauty, and profound emotion.

VII) connemara park national

book your elopement photographer in ireland, and choose your elopement package in ireland

Choosing the right elopement photographer is one of the most important decisions you'll make on your wedding day: they're the one who will transform your moments into lasting memories.

An elopement photographer in Ireland should be comfortable with the sometimes unpredictable Irish landscape, able to guide you to the best spots, and capture the natural emotion of your intimate wedding.

Unlike traditional wedding photography, the approach here is more cinematic, more immersive—telling a true story, using the elements around you, your laughter, your glances, and that feeling of truly being present for each other.

book the accomodation, think about the transportation, and the pets...

Have you chosen your photographer? Let's move on to the next step! Let's start with accommodation, transportation, and pets.

I assume you'll be having a first look, and that you might even eat there (with or without guests). It's important to choose quality accommodation that reflects your love, not just the place where you'll sleep.

Ireland offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all styles and budgets: from charming city hotels to secluded cottages with sea views, and picturesque inns in historic villages. If your Irish elopement includes several days of exploring, be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season.

Some couples prefer accommodation close to their ceremony venue to enjoy a stress-free sunrise or sunset. Others love the idea of ​​staying in an iconic location, such as a renovated farmhouse or a lodge with panoramic views. Depending on your timing and the region you choose, availability varies rapidly: good planning ensures not only comfort and beautiful photos, but also an immersive experience in the local culture.

Ireland is well-served by international flights to airports like Dublin, Cork, and Shannon, making it easy to elope to Ireland from abroad.

Once there, renting a car is generally the most flexible way to explore the landscapes at your own pace, especially if you want to visit several iconic locations (cliffs, beaches, national parks).

Driving is on the left, which might be a little new for some—but it opens the door to incredible scenic drives. Public transport exists, but can sometimes be limited for reaching more remote areas.

Planning your routes and driving times is essential for a smooth elopement day.

And how could you not bring your beloved pets along for the best experience of your life? Ireland is generally very welcoming to four-legged friends, especially in rural and natural areas. Many accommodations accept pets, but it's crucial to check specific policies before booking.

Wide open spaces like beaches, hiking trails, and some national parks offer wonderful opportunities to share moments with your pets—just remember to respect local rules regarding leashes and wildlife.

Don't forget to bring everything necessary for your pet's safety, as well as the safety of others.

Crossing borders? Remember the passport and vaccinations. If flying, the carrier must be IATA-approved and include at least water.

Of course, once you're in Ireland: fresh water, food, a leash, and bags for picking up after your pet. Choose a location where shade will be readily available.

I'm here to help you choose the perfect spot so you can celebrate this special time together.

Ireland elopement package

Now that you know how to elope in Ireland, here's what a Studio Firmin elopement package includes:

  • Elopement duration from one to three days;
  • Choose any location in Ireland, with a backup plan (and a C if needed).
  • A completely personalized elopement in Ireland from start to finish!
  • Photos in an online gallery; photo album and USB drive.
  • GIFs, double exposure, drone footage (if permitted in the chosen location) + creative and artistic images.
  • Travel expenses are already included.

Starting from $5.000
(from $5.000 to $9.000)

Ireland elopement pack

inquire and be ready!

Envoyer le message

contact me to start planning your europe elopement 

votre histoire

Give me your thoughts, I'll make them real !

J'ai hâte de raconter

your first names*

Vos préNOMS

email*

email

phone number*

NUMERO DE TELEPHONE

Where do you think eloping ? 

DATE DE L'EVENEMENT

how much guests do you want to be with you?*

LIEU DE L'EVENEMENT

When you do think eloping ? Did you already choose a date ?*

compte insta

Have you ever traveled together ? What was the best travel ? 

message

menu

a propos

Why would you like eloping ?*

If your ideas are not yet clear, it doesn't matter, most couples do not yet know where their intimate wedding will take place.

where do you live?*

Envoyer le message

inquire and be ready!

votre histoire

contact me to start planning your europe elopement 

J'ai hâte de raconter

Give me your thoughts, I'll make them real !

Vos préNOMS

your first names*

email

email*

NUMERO DE TELEPHONE

phone number*

DATE et lieu DE L'EVENEMENT

When you do think eloping ? Did you already choose a date ?*

combien d'invités aimeriez-vous avoir avec vous ?

Where do you think eloping ? 

qu'aimez-vous dans ma photographie ?

how much guests do you want to be with you?*

ecrivez ce que vous ressentez : quelle est votre vision de l'amour ? de votre mariage ?

Have you ever traveled together ? What was the best travel ? 

Why would you like eloping ?* 

If your ideas are not yet clear, it doesn't matter, most couples do not yet know where their intimate wedding will take place.

where do you live?*