What documents do we need for a legal wedding on Santorini?+
A Certificate of No Impediment or, for US citizens, a consular affidavit, plus apostilled documents with official Greek translations. Greece lets visitors marry in a civil ceremony through the Municipality of Thira or in a religious ceremony, with no residency requirement. The paperwork can take several weeks, so we start it early.
Can we have our ceremony at sunset in Oia?+
Yes, but hold it on a private venue terrace rather than a public lookout. Oia's western cliffs are among the most popular sunset spots on Santorini, and the lanes fill with visitors in the evening, especially in summer. Allow extra time for guest transfers, as roads and parking near Oia get congested at that hour.
Is Santorini safe after the 2025 earthquakes?+
The state of emergency after the strong seismic swarm of early 2025 ended on 3 March 2025. Greece still carries an earthquake risk, along with summer heat and wildfire risk. Check Smartraveller, the US State Department or the UK FCDO before booking and again before you travel, and call 112 in an emergency.
Can we hold the vows at one Santorini venue and dinner at another?+
Yes, and it is a popular pairing. You marry on the hillside terraces at Santo Wines, facing the caldera, the volcano, Fira and Oia, then make the short drive up to Pyrgos Restaurant for dinner. Pyrgos has 5 halls and a garden for up to 150, so guests can take drinks in the garden at sunset and then dance indoors.
Can we have a morning wedding in Santorini?+
Yes. Santorini Gem offers a morning ceremony slot between 10:30 and 11:30 on its ceremony terrace, which leaves the rest of the day free for a party elsewhere on the island. At The Dunes, above Pyrgos, ceremonies can be held at noon for bright island light or in the late afternoon for sunset.
Which Santorini venue looks over both sunrise and sunset?+
The Dunes at Carpe Diem Santorini, a garden built only for weddings on the hills of Pyrgos, has 270-degree views over the island. Guests arrive down a volcanic rock staircase, and the ceremony area and open-air dining area each take up to 150. A covered reception area sits beside the stage for weather cover.