Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a dream wedding destination for couples seeking a mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and world-renowned Mediterranean cuisine. With its breathtaking beaches, charming villages, and luxurious resorts, a Crete wedding offers an unforgettable experience. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about planning a wedding in Crete, including traditions, local cuisine, and drinks.
How Much Does a Crete Wedding Cost?
There is no single answer when it comes to the cost of a wedding in Crete. Depending on your vision, you can expect to spend anywhere from €2,000 to €50,000. Luxury resort and villa weddings tend to be more expensive, while beach ceremonies and elopements offer more budget-friendly options. The final cost will depend on factors such as venue, catering, photography, and entertainment.
Crete Wedding Venues
1. Agreco Farm – Rethymno For a rustic yet elegant wedding, Agreco Farm offers a traditional Cretan setting surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Couples can exchange vows in a charming chapel before celebrating with a feast of organic farm-to-table cuisine.
2. Daios Cove – Agios Nikolaos This luxurious five-star resort provides breathtaking sea views, a private beach, and world-class services. Daios Cove is ideal for couples seeking an intimate and elegant wedding experience with unparalleled hospitality.
3. Rimondi Boutique Hotel – Rethymno Located in the heart of Rethymno’s Old Town, Rimondi Boutique Hotel combines Venetian architecture with modern luxury. Its stunning courtyard is a perfect backdrop for a romantic and timeless wedding.
4. Elounda Beach Hotel – Elounda Known for its exclusive atmosphere and scenic coastline, Elounda Beach Hotel offers a range of wedding venues, from private chapels to seaside terraces. Its elegant and luxurious setting makes it one of the top choices for high-end weddings in Crete.
5. Kapsaliana Village Hotel – Arkadi A hidden gem in the hills of Crete, Kapsaliana Village Hotel is a beautifully restored historic village offering a unique and intimate wedding venue. The stone-built surroundings and breathtaking nature make for a picturesque celebration.
Check also our article for Sea View Wedding Venue Crete or Rustic Venue Crete.
Cretan Wedding Traditions
1. Proxenia (Matchmaking Tradition) In traditional Cretan weddings, the role of the “proxenitis” (matchmaker) was essential in arranging marriages. Today, this tradition is less common, but it adds a cultural touch to weddings held on the island.
2. The Wedding Crowns (Stefana) During Greek Orthodox ceremonies, the couple wears wedding crowns (stefana) that are connected with a ribbon, symbolizing their unity and eternal bond.
3. Traditional Cretan Feast No Cretan wedding is complete without a lavish feast featuring local specialties such as lamb cooked in a wood-fired oven, dakos (Cretan rusk salad), and fresh seafood. The communal feast is an important part of the celebration, bringing families and friends together.
4. Live Cretan Music and Dancing Cretan weddings are known for their lively music, featuring traditional instruments like the lyra and laouto. The bride and groom often lead a celebratory dance, such as the pentozali, a famous Cretan folk dance.
Check our article about more “Why a Destination Wedding in Crete is the Best Decision You’ll Ever Make”
Legal Requirements
To get legally married in Crete, you need to prepare the following documents:
- Valid Passports – Original and photocopies of both passports.
- Birth Certificates – Original and certified translations in Greek.
- Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) – A document issued by your country’s embassy or consulate in Greece stating that there are no legal impediments to your marriage.
- Passport-Sized Photos – Usually four photos per person (4×6 cm) with a white background.
- Divorce Decree/Death Certificate – If previously married, provide proof of divorce or the death certificate of the former spouse.
- Religious Documents – If opting for a Greek Orthodox wedding, a baptism certificate and other religious documents may be required.
It is important to note that civil ceremonies and religious weddings in Greece require different legal procedures. If you are traveling to Crete for your wedding, you may consider completing the legal marriage formalities in your home country beforehand to simplify the process.
