How Much Does a Wedding in France Cost [Updated 2025]

✨ Out Now – The French Wedding Style Digital Magazine ✨

Feeling Overwhelmed by Pinterest Boards and Endless Scrolling?

Get instant access to 280+ pages of curated, ad-free Destination Wedding Inspiration

Inside, you’ll find:

• 56 real weddings & editorials showcasing Europe’s latest wedding trends
• 280+ pages of stunning ceremony, fashion, floral & table design ideas
• A curated directory of France’s most talented wedding vendors — with real credits and direct links
• No Advertising — just luxury wedding inspiration at your fingertips

Elevate your wedding today

DISCOVER EUROPES WEDDING TRENDS

Are you dreaming of a wedding in France? Whether you’re imagining an elegant château surrounded by rolling vineyards or a charming ceremony in a quaint countryside village, a wedding in France is a truly unique experience. The beauty of a French wedding lies not just in its romantic setting, but in the sheer variety of locations available. From the tranquil countryside of Normandy to the luxurious beaches of the French Riviera, there’s something to suit every couple’s vision.

What makes France stand out is its diverse wedding venues, each offering a distinct atmosphere, whether you prefer rustic charm, elegance, or seaside glamour. With so many options across different regions, couples can find the perfect venue that aligns with their style, all while enjoying the timeless allure of France. The variety in both locations and pricing ensures that every couple can find their ideal wedding spot, no matter the scale of their celebration.

Key Insights

• Define Your Wedding Priorities Early: Decide what matters most, venue, guest experience, or styling—to guide every budget decision effectively.
• Pick the Right Region: Save 30–40% by choosing hidden-gem regions like Dordogne or Loire Valley instead of Paris or the Riviera.
• Focus on Cost Per Guest: Your per-guest spend (€500–€1,000+) determines the level of luxury more than the guest count itself.
• Choose the Right Season: Off-season or shoulder-season weddings can cut venue and vendor costs by up to 30%.
• Plan for Hidden Costs: Set aside 5–10% for currency changes, vendor travel, and weather contingencies.
• Luxury Is About Smart Choices: A well-planned €30,000 wedding can feel as magical as a €100,000 one with the right strategy.

What is the Average Cost of a Wedding in France?

The typical budget for a French wedding ranges from €30,000 to €80,000, with luxury celebrations often exceeding €100,000. This range encompasses everything from intimate countryside affairs to lavish château celebrations, with costs varying significantly based on location, season, and style.

How much does it cost to rent a castle in France for a wedding?

Renting a castle in France for your wedding is the ultimate expression of romance, offering everything from intimate countryside escapes to breathtaking estates with centuries of history. Prices typically range from €10,000 to €50,000 per day, but what you get for that investment varies dramatically depending on the region, size, and level of luxury. France’s rich diversity of landscapes and architectural styles means that no matter your budget, there’s a château that can transform your wedding into a truly extraordinary event.

Affordable Hidden Gems

In regions like Dordogne or Nouvelle-Aquitaine, you’ll find picturesque châteaux tucked away in rolling countryside, with ivy-covered walls, candlelit courtyards, and sweeping views. These venues often include on-site accommodations for you and your guests, rustic banquet halls, and gardens perfect for al fresco dining—all at surprisingly accessible rates that allow you to splurge on other details like florals or photography.

Iconic Luxury Estates

For those dreaming of a grand celebration, renowned castles in Provence, the Loire Valley, or along the French Riviera (Cote d’Azur) offer unmatched prestige. Think sprawling manicured grounds, opulent ballrooms with crystal chandeliers, and terraces where you can toast beneath the stars. These venues often come with world-class amenities, professional in-house catering, and event teams who specialize in luxury weddings, justifying their premium price tag.

Diverse Regional Options

France’s variety means every couple can find their perfect setting. Normandy offers historic manors surrounded by pastoral charm, Bordeaux is home to vineyard estates ideal for wine lovers, and the Loire Valley boasts storybook castles framed by rivers and forests. Each region delivers its own unique character and atmosphere, letting you align your venue with your vision for the day.

Balancing Grandeur with Value

Many châteaux outside of the most famous tourist regions provide breathtaking architecture and authentic French ambiance at far more moderate rates. These hidden treasures often offer exclusive-use packages, giving you and your guests the feeling of having an entire estate to yourselves without the sky-high price of more high-profile locations.

How Much Should You Spend on a Wedding Based on Income?

As a general guideline, couples should consider allocating 10-15% of their combined annual income for their wedding. However, this varies based on personal priorities and savings. With many modern French couples receiving significant family support (typically 30% from each set of parents), your personal contribution might only need to be 30-40% of the total wedding cost.

Is €30,000 a Realistic Budget?

A €30,000 budget can absolutely create a romantic and unforgettable French wedding if you focus on the right regions, smart timing, and prioritizing what truly matters. While it won’t buy a lavish Paris or Riviera celebration, it’s perfect for an intimate, elegant event that captures the essence of France.

• What €30,000 Covers – Expect to host 30–40 guests with a charming château venue, quality catering, professional photography, and thoughtful décor that feels polished without excess.
• Hidden-Gem Regions – Skip the premium price tags of Paris and the Riviera. Instead, look to Dordogne (€5,000–€10,000) for riverside manors, Burgundy (€5,000–€8,000) for vineyard châteaux, Brittany (€4,000–€6,000) for coastal manors, or Occitanie (€8,000–€15,000) for sun-soaked castles at half the cost of Provence.
• Timing & Strategy – Book an off-peak wedding (October–April) to save 20–30% on venues, or consider a midweek date to avoid weekend premiums. Look for venues that include essentials like accommodation, furniture, and in-house planning services to avoid hidden costs.
• Décor That Delivers – Use greenery like eucalyptus and olive branches for chic, French-inspired styling, add baby’s breath for romantic floral touches, and rely on candlelight to create an intimate, enchanting atmosphere without overspending.
• Food & Wine – Embrace a cocktail-style reception (~€150/guest) with local cheese stations, fresh oysters, mini French dishes, and regional wines from lesser-known vineyards for authentic yet affordable dining.
• Key Investments – Prioritize photography (~€3,000) for lasting memories, hire a DJ (€1,500) instead of a band, and consider a content creator (~€1,000) for social-media-ready highlight videos.

With smart choices, €30,000 is more than enough to create a refined, affordable intimate wedding in France that feels magical, personal, and authentically French.

Is €100,000 a Good Budget for a Wedding in France?

A €100,000 budget provides the means for a truly extraordinary wedding in France, but what it delivers depends heavily on your chosen region, guest count, and priorities. This amount can fund a high-end wedding for a large guest list or an ultra-luxurious, intimate celebration with every detail elevated to perfection.

• Prestigious Regions – In sought-after destinations like the French Riviera, Provence, and Paris, €100,000 is considered high-end rather than ultra-luxury. Venue rentals here often start from €15,000 per day, with catering, florals, and entertainment priced at a premium due to high demand and exclusivity.
• Guest Count Considerations – For 100 guests, this budget creates a refined, elegant event but requires strategic allocation across venue, catering, and design. Reducing your guest count to 50–70 allows more room for premium styling and experiences, while an intimate 30-guest wedding can transform €100,000 into a fully indulgent, ultra-luxury celebration.
• Vendor Quality – This budget enables hiring elite wedding planners, renowned photographers, and luxury floral designers, ensuring flawless execution and world-class styling.
• Multi-Day Celebrations – With careful planning, €100,000 can also cover pre- and post-wedding events, such as welcome dinners, wine tastings, or farewell brunches, especially if the guest list is kept smaller.
• Maximizing Value – Expert budget management is essential. Partnering with an experienced French wedding planner helps prioritize the highest-impact elements, negotiate with premium vendors, and make the most of every euro.

€100,000 is a generous budget for a wedding in France. With the right planning, it can deliver either an exceptional high-end celebration for a larger guest list or an unforgettable, ultra-luxury experience for a smaller, more intimate gathering.

How much should I budget per guest for a wedding in France?

It’s important to understand that the quality and luxury level of your wedding isn’t determined by guest count, but rather by your cost per guest. This approach helps you plan more effectively and maintain the standard you desire regardless of your wedding size.

Luxury Wedding Experience: €1,000+ per guest

A no-expense-spared celebration in France’s most prestigious venues, featuring Michelin-starred dining, elaborate entertainment, and every luxury detail imaginable.

• Prestigious venues: Private châteaux, historic mansions, 5-star hotels
• Gastronomy: Michelin-starred catering, premium wine selection, craft cocktails
• Design: Abundant fresh flowers, custom installations, sophisticated lighting
• Entertainment: Live band, ceremony musicians, late-night DJ
• Extras: Vintage cars, fireworks, welcome dinner, farewell brunch
• Full luxury planning service

High-end Wedding Celebration: €700-€900 per guest

An elegant affair in beautiful French châteaux or wine estates, offering excellent cuisine and refined details while maintaining a balance of luxury and value.

• Beautiful venues: Loire Valley châteaux, wine estates, boutique venues
• Quality catering: Excellent French cuisine, champagne, wine selection
• Design: Fresh flower arrangements, elegant table settings, ambient lighting
• Entertainment: Live music or DJ, cocktail hour musician
• Comprehensive planning services

Classic French Wedding: €500-€700 per guest

A charming and intimate celebration in authentic French settings, featuring local cuisine and traditional elements that capture the essence of French romance.

• Charming venues: Intimate châteaux, countryside manors, charming farmhouse
• Quality catering: Local French cuisine, premium champagne, regional wines
• Design: Lovely floral arrangements, classic décor
• Entertainment: Professional DJ or small ensemble
• Essential planning support

Where should I get married in France based on my budget?

France offers an extraordinary variety of wedding destinations, from ultra-luxury coastal escapes to charming countryside châteaux. Your budget will be the deciding factor in which region best fits your vision. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect across France’s most popular wedding locations:

How Much Does a Wedding Venue Cost in the South of France?

For couples seeking unmatched glamour and Mediterranean beauty, the French Riviera stands out as the ultimate luxury destination.

• Venue Rentals: Start from €15,000 per day for luxury villas, beachfront properties, and exclusive estates.
• Full-Service Weddings: Typically range from €80,000 to €100,000+, depending on guest count and level of styling.
• What You Get: Iconic sea views, lavish villas, Michelin-starred dining options, and the kind of high-end experience that defines a Riviera wedding.

How Much Does a Wedding Venue Cost in Occitanie?

If you dream of the Mediterranean but want better value, Occitanie offers the perfect balance between charm and affordability.

• Venue Rentals: Start from €5,000 per day, significantly lower than the Riviera.
• Full-Service Weddings: Range from €35,000 to €60,000.
• What You Get: Beautiful vineyards, sun-soaked countryside, and historic estates, all with an authentic French atmosphere at a fraction of the cost of the Riviera.

What Are the Best Vineyard Wedding Venues in Nouvelle-Aquitaine?

Known for its world-famous wines, Bordeaux and Nouvelle-Aquitaine combine elegance, history, and exceptional value.

• Full-Service Weddings: Typically €30,000 to €65,000.
• What You Get: Grand vineyard estates, fine wine pairings, and stunning countryside backdrops, perfect for couples seeking understated sophistication.

How Much Do Château Weddings Cost in the Loire Valley?

For fairy-tale lovers, the Loire Valley—the “Garden of France”—offers regal charm and historic grandeur.

• Venue Rentals: Start from €6,000 per day.
• Full-Service Weddings: Range from €30,000 to €70,000.
• What You Get: Storybook châteaux, sweeping gardens, and the ability to host a refined celebration at excellent value compared to Paris or the Riviera.

How Much Should I Budget for a Castle Wedding in Dordogne?

With its “land of a thousand castles” reputation, Dordogne is ideal for couples seeking rural elegance and intimacy.

• Full-Service Weddings: Range from €25,000 to €60,000.
• What You Get: Stone châteaux surrounded by rolling countryside, historic villages, and authentic French charm.

What Does a Wedding Venue Cost in Normandy and Brittany?

These northern regions offer coastal beauty and countryside romance at a fraction of southern France’s prices.

• Full-Service Weddings: Range from €20,000 to €50,000.
• What You Get: Elegant manor houses, rugged coastal views, and convenient access from Paris—ideal for couples prioritizing charm and accessibility.

How Much Does the Average Wedding Cost in Paris?

For urban luxury and iconic backdrops, Paris delivers sophistication unlike anywhere else.

• Venue Rentals: Range from €8,000 to €50,000 per day for prestigious hotels and historic landmarks.
• What You Get: A glamorous, cosmopolitan celebration framed by world-famous architecture and a city renowned for haute cuisine and fine art.

Planning Tip: Château rentals vary significantly—€10,000 to €50,000 per day, depending on size, prestige, and location. Small, family-owned châteaux are ideal for intimate weddings, while larger estates suit grand multi-day celebrations. For better value, consider shoulder-season weddings (April–May or September–October) when rates are lower but the weather remains beautiful.

Is a French Wedding Worth the Investment? Understanding Value vs. Cost

Weddings in France often cost 10–20% more than many other European destinations, but this premium reflects what makes France an unparalleled choice for couples seeking elegance and authenticity. From its historic venues to its world-renowned cuisine, every element of a French wedding is elevated by quality, tradition, and timeless romance.

Why Couples Choose France Despite Higher Costs

Many couples find that the value of a French wedding outweighs the higher investment.

• Romantic Ambiance: From lavender fields in Provence to the glittering lights of Paris, France offers cinematic settings that feel effortlessly magical.
• Cultural Elegance: French traditions, refined décor, and attention to detail elevate every aspect of the wedding experience.
• Personalization: Historic venues and scenic countryside estates allow for bespoke celebrations, blending timeless French style with each couple’s unique vision.
• Memorable Guest Experience: France provides not only a wedding but a destination experience, where guests enjoy exceptional food, wine, and local culture.

Is Italy More Expensive Than France for Weddings?

While both France and Italy offer world-class wedding destinations, their costs vary significantly by region.

• Italy’s Premium Regions: The Amalfi Coast and Tuscany are on par with the French Riviera and Paris, often requiring higher budgets for luxury experiences.
• France’s Regional Advantage: With the same €50,000 budget, France provides more options in regions like the Loire Valley, Dordogne, or Occitanie, where weddings can cost 30–40% less than in Italy while delivering the same level of elegance and service.
• Better Value for Mid-Range Budgets: Couples who want luxury without overspending often find France’s hidden-gem regions provide a perfect balance of affordability and sophistication.

France isn’t just more expensive—it’s more valuable. Its combination of history, gastronomy, and breathtaking scenery offers couples an elevated wedding experience that few other destinations can match.

Planning a wedding in France doesn’t have to mean overspending. By making strategic decisions about timing, location, and services, you can create an elegant and authentic French celebration while keeping your budget under control.

• Choose Off-Season Dates – Opting for November to March can reduce venue and vendor costs by 20–30%, while still offering cozy, romantic settings. For mild weather at moderate rates, consider the shoulder seasons (April–May or September–October) to avoid peak summer pricing.
• Select Cost-Effective Regions – Skip high-demand locations like Paris and the French Riviera. Instead, choose value-driven regions such as Dordogne, Occitanie, or Normandy, where you can save up to €15,000 on your overall wedding budget while still enjoying breathtaking scenery and historic venues.
• Book a Weekday Wedding – Many venues offer 10–15% discounts for Monday–Thursday weddings, making this a simple way to cut costs without compromising on quality or style.
• Leverage Venue Packages – Look for venues that provide all-inclusive packages (accommodation, furniture, catering coordination), which can save €5,000–€10,000 compared to booking each service separately and ensure a more seamless planning process.
• Focus on Key Priorities – Splurge on essentials like photography and catering while simplifying décor and entertainment. For example, use seasonal greenery or candlelight instead of elaborate floral installations to achieve a romantic look for less.
• Consider Smaller Guest Lists – Hosting 30–50 guests allows for higher quality per guest while keeping total costs down, making it easier to secure premium venues and vendors without overspending.

Expert Tip: Combining off-season dates with a hidden-gem region is one of the most effective ways to achieve a luxurious French wedding experience for less.

What Is a Traditional French Wedding Like and Who Pays for It?

French weddings beautifully combine cultural traditions, culinary indulgence, and family involvement. From who contributes financially to the unique elements that define the celebration, a traditional wedding in France reflects both elegance and deep-rooted customs.

Who Pays for a French Wedding?

In modern France—especially for destination weddings—costs are typically shared between the couple and their families, although the exact split depends on family traditions and financial circumstances.

• Both Families (40–60%) – Traditionally, families play a major role in financing the wedding, often covering venue, catering, or key cultural elements.
• The Couple (40–50%) – Modern couples often contribute equally or cover specific areas such as photography, entertainment, or personal styling.
• Extended Family Contributions – Relatives sometimes sponsor individual elements, like the cake, live music, or favors, as a meaningful wedding gift.

Typical French Wedding Events and Elements

Traditional French weddings are rich in symbolic rituals and culinary highlights, many of which influence the overall budget:

• Le Vin d’Honneur (€50–€75 per person): A long cocktail reception where guests enjoy champagne, wines, and canapés before dinner, often considered one of the most anticipated parts of the day.
• La Pièce Montée (€400–€800): The iconic croquembouche—a tower of caramel-glazed cream puffs—serves as the traditional wedding “cake” and a show-stopping moment during the reception.
• Late-Night Food Service (€15–€25 per person): Midnight snacks, like mini quiches, charcuterie, or soup, help keep guests energized for France’s famously late-night celebrations.
• Traditional Musicians (€800–€1,500): From accordion players to live bands, music is a key feature of French weddings, adding atmosphere and cultural authenticity.
• Wedding Favors (Dragées) (€5–€10 per person): Sugared almonds, a timeless French wedding gift symbolizing health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity.

Expert Tip: While these traditions add cost, they also bring cultural richness and create a true “French wedding” experience. Many couples mix these elements with modern touches to balance tradition, budget, and personal style.

What Additional Costs Should You Consider for Your French Wedding?

Planning a destination wedding in France involves more than just booking your venue and catering. To avoid budget surprises, it’s essential to factor in hidden costs, prepare for contingencies, and build in a financial buffer for unexpected expenses. A smart guideline is to allocate your budget as follows: 70% for essentials (venue, catering, entertainment), 20% for styling and special touches, and 10% for contingency.

Key Financial Considerations

These often-overlooked expenses can significantly impact your final budget:

• Currency Fluctuation Buffer (5% | €2,500–€5,000): Exchange rate changes can increase costs if you’re paying in euros from another currency.
• Unexpected Costs (10% | €3,000–€10,000): Last-minute upgrades, extra rentals, or additional staffing are common.
• Welcome or Farewell Events (€50–€75 per person): Many couples host a welcome dinner or post-wedding brunch to enhance the guest experience.
• Vendor Travel Costs (€500–€2,000): If hiring international vendors or those outside your chosen region, travel and accommodation may be required.

Protecting Your Investment

Building safeguards into your budget ensures your wedding runs smoothly:

• Weather Contingency (€2,000–€5,000): Tents, heaters, or alternative indoor setups may be necessary for outdoor weddings.
• Insurance Coverage (€500–€1,500): Wedding insurance can protect against cancellations, vendor no-shows, or extreme weather.
• Backup Vendor Options (€1,000–€3,000): Holding deposits with secondary vendors (e.g. photographers or musicians) can save your event if a primary vendor cancels.

Expert Tip: Treat contingency planning as an essential part of your budget, not an afterthought. Building in these costs upfront can prevent stress and keep your celebration running seamlessly.

Planning Your Wedding in France: Final Thoughts

Planning a wedding in France is as much about strategy as it is about romance. By aligning your budget with the right region, season, and priorities, you can create a celebration that feels effortlessly luxurious—whether it’s a €30,000 intimate countryside gathering or a €100,000 multi-day château affair. The key is to focus on value, not just cost: choose elements that elevate the experience, plan for hidden expenses, and lean on expert local vendors who know how to maximize every euro.

With smart planning and clear priorities, your French wedding budget can transform into more than just numbers—it becomes the foundation for an unforgettable celebration of love, beauty, and timeless French elegance.