Public vs Private Wedding Venues in Europe

The famous public location in front of the eiffel tower at Trocadero spot in Paris

A Complete Guide to Choose the Perfect Setting for Your Ceremony

When planning a destination wedding, an elopement in Europe or vows renewal, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to hold your ceremony.
Should you say “I do” in a breathtaking public location — like a scenic viewpoint, a charming square, or a romantic garden? Or should you celebrate in the intimate, elegant atmosphere of a private venue?

Many couples ask us this question, especially when their guest list reaches 15 people or more.
This guide will help you understand the real differences between public and private wedding venues — in terms of guest capacity, logistics, and, of course, budget.

What Is a Public Wedding Area?

Public areas are magical places open to everyone — historic squares, panoramic viewpoints, charming gardens, or beaches. They’re often chosen by couples who want to keep things simple, meaningful, and authentic.

Ideal for:

  • Elopements and vow renewals

  • Micro weddings with up to 15 guests

Why couples love public areas:

  • Iconic backdrops at no extra venue cost

  • Romantic, symbolic atmosphere

  • Great natural light available

  • Great option for couples focused on the ceremony itself

Things to keep in mind:

  • Public spaces cannot be privatized, so other visitors may be nearby

  • Decoration and music are often limited

  • Timing and logistics must respect local regulations

Cost: Since there’s no venue rental, public areas are the most budget-friendly option — you only invest in your ceremony package, not the location itself.

What Is a Private Wedding Venue?

Private venues offer a completely different experience.
They are villas, panoramic terraces, luxury hotels, or gardens that can be exclusively rented for your wedding day.
If you’re inviting more than 15 guests, a private venue is usually the most comfortable and flexible choice.

Ideal for:

  • Micro weddings and destination weddings

  • Groups of 15+ guests

  • Couples seeking privacy and a tailored experience

Why couples love private venues:

  • Full privacy and exclusivity for your ceremony

  • Complete creative freedom: music, décor, timeline

  • More comfort for your guests

  • Elegant, curated settings with personality

Things to keep in mind:

  • Venue rental is required, which increases the total cost

  • More logistics and coordination

  • Should be booked in advance for best availability

💰 Cost: Renting a private venue involves a higher budget, but it gives you full control over the ambiance, comfort, and flow of your celebration.

Why Public Areas Have a 15-Guest Limit

In most European destinations, public spaces are protected and regulated.
Authorities limit private use to 15 people or fewer to:

  • Preserve the flow of visitors and avoid crowding

  • Protect historic sites and monuments

  • Keep ceremonies intimate and respectful of the location

👉 If your guest list goes beyond 15, you’ll likely need to book a private venue.

The couple and parents at the terrasse of a Private venue in Monaco
bride, groom an dtheir chid after the ceremony in a private venu in Lake Como

Public vs Private Wedding Venues: Cost & Experience

Public Area

  • Max guests: Up to 15
  • Cost: 💰 Lower — no venue rental
  • Privacy: Open to the public
  • Flexibility: Limited (timing, music, décor)
  • Decoration: Simple, elegant
  • Logistics: Easy, minimal
  • Best for: Elopements, vow renewals

Private Venue

  • Max guests: 15+
  • Cost: 💰💰💰 Venue rental + logistics
  • Privacy: Fully private
  • Flexibility: High — tailor your experience
  • Decoration: Fully customizable
  • Logistics: More planning required
  • Best for: Micro weddings, destination weddings
The couple and celebrant at a Public spot in San georgio island in Vencie
The couple and celebrant at the beach, a public location at Amalfi Coast

How to Choose the Right Option for You

✨ Choose a public area if you want a simple, romantic, and affordable ceremony with your closest loved ones — or just the two of you.
✨ Choose a private venue if you’re celebrating with family and friends and want a flexible, elegant, and fully private setting.

👉 Many couples combine both: they hold their ceremony in a public area, then host an intimate dinner in a private venue. This is a great way to balance budget and experience.

How Love Gracefully Can Help You

We specialize in creating unforgettable elopements, vow renewals, and destination weddings across Europe.
Whether you dream of exchanging vows in front of the Eiffel Tower, on the Amalfi Coast, or in a private villa in Provence, our team will:

  • Guide you toward the best venue option for your guest list and budget

  • Handle all logistics and permits

  • Create a personal, meaningful ceremony you’ll remember forever ✨

👉 Contact us today to find the perfect venue and destination for your love story — whether it’s public, private, or a little bit of both.