The real cost of marriage in Spain in 2025

Wedding season has officially begun in Spain. It will continue through the rest of the summer months.

For many couples, a wedding in sunny Spain represents THE DREAM. Here’s your perfect recipe for a wedding: the scenery, the food and the Mediterranean vibe.

What will the cost of a wedding be in Spain in 2025

Spain is cheaper, but do not be fooled

Let’s first clarify a common misconception. Spain is more affordable than most other European countries. However, that does not mean you can have your dream wedding on a budget of a few thousand Euros.

Many foreign couples make the mistake of assuming that what they find expensive at home will be affordable when in Spain. This is not always true.

While day-to-day life may be more budget-friendly in Spain, weddings — especially in popular locations like Marbella, Madrid, Barcelona or the Balearic coast — can match the prices of events in countries like the UK or Italy. If you want a five-star wedding, expect to pay a lot.

What are we discussing?

Let’s start with some statistics. According to the Spanish Wedding Portal bodas.net, the average cost of a wedding in Spain in 2024 was €24,618. But 44% of couples spent over €25,000, and that’s not counting your honeymoon or anything after the big day.

So, if you’re considering a wedding in an area like Valencia and Malaga or along the coast in places like Marbella or Cadiz, expect higher costs — but you’re paying for top-notch food, good weather, and spectacular venues.

Defining priorities: must-haves vs. negotiables

Victorita AxinescuA wedding planner in Malaga always advises couples to clearly define their priorities. Your must-haves could include the venue or a good planner, as well as food, entertainment, photography and photography.

She recommends splitting up your budget into two equal parts.

• Fixed costs (wedding planner, photographer, music, etc.)
• Costs per guest (food, beverages, rentals, transport)

This will help you determine what you value and where you can cut back without sacrificing the things that are important to you.

Venues and catering

Your wedding will cost you mainly these two things. According to Victorita, the venue is a major investment. In Malaga province, for example, prices range from €4,000 to over €20,000, depending on location, capacity, and exclusivity. Prices can vary depending on whether a venue offers accommodation on site or works with exclusive vendors.

Spanish weddings are also known for the food. A typical menu includes cocktail hour canapés, cava toast, a multi-course dinner, with wine, beer, water and coffee.

• Menus: from €120 to €250+ per guest.
• Open bar packages: from €40 (4 hours) and up.
• Late-night snacks: between €10–30 per guest.

Pro tip: Villas rely on outside catering while hotels and beach clubs offer their own services.

Costs of guest experience

There are also the costs of wedding services and entertainment. Couples should expect to spend a significant portion of their budget.

In short, hiring a professional DJ typically starts at around €1,000, while live music — whether it’s a solo singer or instrumentalist — usually begins at €500 per hour. If you’re in for a full band, expect to spend anywhere from €2,000 to over €10,000, depending on the group’s size, their fame, and length of performance.

Beyond the performers themselves, the setup for sound systems, lighting, and dance floor equipment usually adds a minimum of €2,000 to the total cost.

As for flowers and decor, for a wedding with around 50 guests, the starting budget — including centerpieces and bouquets — usually sits at around €4,000.

Of course, depending on season, desired aesthetic and scale of decor, the final amount will vary.

Wedding Planner

In Spain, wedding planner fees range between 8–15% of your total budget. Flat fees usually start from €4,000 and can exceed €10,000, depending on the planner’s services and availability.

Be sure to understand the exact services included and whether they are partial or full coordination.

Photography & Videography

In Spain, good photography packages range between €2,500 – €6,000. The price range for videography is similar.

Don’t forget about other expenses

Here are a couple more things that can add up.

• Officiant: from €500.
• Ceremony setup (chairs, altar, florals): from €800.
• Invitations: a few hundred euros for basic sets; €1,000–3,000+ for luxury suites and signage.
• Hair & makeup: from €400 each (bride); bridesmaids usually pay les.
• Rings, outfits, guest transport, party favours — all small items that can add thousands more.

Pro tip: Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, and other places cost more. If you are looking to save some money, consider inland areas and less touristic regions such as Murcia or Granada.

Allocate extra space

A good idea: reserve an extra 15–20% of your total budget for unexpected expenses. Weddings often come with surprises — weather backups, guest changes, or last-minute upgrades.

Spain makes a wonderful wedding destination, but the success of your event will depend on realistic expectations and meticulous planning.

Don’t believe that Spain is always inexpensive. Instead, determine what is important to you and work with local professionals who understand the market.