Destination Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate your destination wedding costs based on your chosen location, guest count, and desired style. Adjust the inputs below to see a detailed cost breakdown.
20200
Estimated Total
$56,400Venue & Catering$18,000
Photography & Video$4,800
Flowers & Decor$3,150
Music & Entertainment$1,950
Wedding Planner$3,900
Attire & Beauty$4,000
Welcome Dinner$4,200
Guest Transport$2,400
Base costs (licenses, admin, etc.)$14,000
Estimates are approximate and vary by venue, season, and vendor selection. Use these figures as a starting point for budgeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a destination wedding cost?
According to The Knot's 2026 Real Weddings Study, destination weddings average $39,000. Costs vary widely by location — Mexico and Bali start around $10,000 for smaller weddings, while European destinations like the Amalfi Coast can reach $50,000+. Use the calculator above to estimate costs for your specific destination and guest count.
What is the biggest expense in a destination wedding?
Venue and catering typically account for 40–50% of the total budget. For an 80-guest destination wedding, this can range from $5,000 at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico to $30,000+ at a European villa. Photography (8–12%), flowers (5–10%), and a wedding planner (5–10%) are the next largest categories.
Are destination weddings cheaper than traditional weddings?
They can be. The average traditional US wedding costs $34,000 for 117 guests. Destination weddings average $39,000 but with significantly fewer guests (typically 30–60), meaning you spend more per guest on a more intimate experience. Destinations like Mexico, Bali, and Portugal offer exceptional value.
What costs do guests pay at a destination wedding?
Guests typically pay for their own flights and accommodation. The average guest spends roughly $2,000 to attend, including airfare and 4–5 nights of lodging. Couples usually cover wedding events (ceremony, reception, welcome dinner), airport shuttles, and welcome bags.