One of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding is choosing the right location, and there’s a lot to be said for a city centre setting. It’s practical, stylish, and full of options that make life easier for both you and your guests.

Whether you're drawn to the idea of a modern, elegant celebration or simply want everything within easy reach, hosting your wedding in the heart of the city can be a great choice. Here are five key reasons to consider it.

1/ It’s Easy for Everyone to Get To

Isabelle Biggs Photography

One of the most practical reasons to choose a city centre wedding is its accessibility. City centres usually have great transport links, whether your guests are arriving by car, train, or plane. This means fewer worries about people getting lost or dealing with complicated directions. In addition, there are usually many hotels nearby, so guests can find accommodation that suits their budget and make a full weekend of it. For you, it means not having to travel far between venues or suppliers on the day itself, which helps everything run more smoothly.

The Morrison Hotel is a perfect example. Located right in the heart of Dublin city, just across the river from Temple Bar, it’s within walking distance of major train and bus stations and a short drive from Dublin Airport. No countryside sat nav struggles or last-minute taxi panic here!

2/ You Have a Wide Choice of Stunning Venues

Samm Blake Wedding

City centres offer a huge range of wedding venues, so you're more likely to find something that matches your style and budget. From luxury hotels and rooftop spaces to historic buildings and modern event spaces, there’s something for every type of wedding. Many of these venues are set up specifically for events like weddings, so they often have in-house coordinators and recommended suppliers to help things run efficiently. This can take a lot of pressure off during the planning process.

When it comes to hosting your ceremony in the city, Dublin City Hall is a standout venue. Located just off Dame Street, this iconic building is one of the country's most beautiful civil ceremony venues. It's an especially good fit for couples who want a ceremony that feels both formal and memorable without leaving the city.

3/ Endless Opportunities for Gorgeous Photos

Alice Andre Photography

Cities provide a great backdrop if you’re looking for memorable photo ops. From historic streets and old buildings to modern architecture and lively neighbourhoods, there’s no shortage of variety. Your photographer will be able to find great locations nearby, whether you're looking for relaxed, natural photos or something a little more polished. Plus, having everything close together makes moving between your ceremony, reception, and photo spots easier without losing time.

Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel in the Docklands combines sleek design, and its location at the Grand Canal Square area offers a unique backdrop of water, glass, and geometric lines. If you want your wedding photos to look modern and polished, The Marker is hard to beat.

4/ You Can Create a Full Weekend Experience

Lost In Love

Getting married in the city makes it easy to turn your wedding into more than a one-day event. You can plan a welcome dinner the night before, or a casual brunch the morning after — all without needing to travel far. There’s also plenty for your guests to do while they’re in town. From restaurants and museums to bars and shops, a city centre location allows everyone to make a proper trip out of your celebration. It’s convenient if your friends and family come from abroad or out of town.

The five-star InterContinental Dublin, located in the leafy suburb of Ballsbridge, is ideal for this kind of extended celebration. It’s perfect if you’re hoping to enjoy a relaxed morning-after breakfast with guests or want to treat yourselves to a spa session the day before the ceremony.

5/ There’s a Buzz You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

Samm Blake Wedding

A city wedding has a buzz that’s hard to match. There’s always something happening, and the energy of the surroundings adds something special to the day. You’ll feel it as soon as you arrive — the busy streets, the people, the pace — it all adds to the atmosphere. And when the formal part of the day is over, you're never far from a good afterparty spot, late-night food, or even a comfy hotel room nearby. It’s a fun, lively way to end the day and keep the celebrations going.

Overlooking the River Lee, The Kingsley Hotel in Cork combines the feel of a destination wedding with the energy of an urban setting. For couples based in or near the south, it’s a great example of a city venue that offers atmosphere without losing a sense of calm and class.

- Gráinne