When planning a wedding in Europe, music plays a crucial role in creating the perfect atmosphere. Choosing the soundtrack for your wedding should not only reflect the couple’s personal taste, but also capture the cultural essence of the wedding venue. That’s why we’ve put together a European wedding playlist for you, so you can get the songs right when you get married in any country.
From the passionate melodies of flamenco in Spain to the romantic strains of French chanson, a good European wedding playlist should include those classics that have stood the test of time and guarantee an unforgettable evening.
Countries like Portugal, Spain, France and Italy have their own repertoire of iconic songs that, when played at a wedding, create an instant connection with the culture and the venue. Whether it’s for the first dance, dinner or the party, choosing the right songs can transform any moment into a magical memory.
We’ll tell you which ones are the best! Grab a pen and paper, because we’re starting.
Portugal: Fado and Joy
Fado, known as the soul music of Portugal, is a must-have on any European wedding playlist held in this country. Here are some of the songs that should be included to capture the Portuguese spirit:
– “Cheira Bem, Cheira a Lisboa” – Amália Rodrigues : Amália is the queen of fado, and this song is a tribute to the city of Lisbon. It’s perfect for a moment of calm and reflection during the wedding.
– “Uma Casa Portuguesa” – Amália Rodrigues : Another classic from Amália that celebrates Portuguese hospitality and home. Ideal for dinner or intimate moments.
– “A Minha Casinha” – Xutos & Pontapés : This song is a little more modern but has become an anthem of Portuguese music, perfect for getting guests up and moving.
– “O Pastor” – Madredeus: A beautiful melody that combines the traditional essence of fado with a contemporary touch, perfect for the ceremony or the first dance.
Spain: Flamenco and Passion
At a Spanish wedding, the music should capture the passion and rhythm of flamenco, along with other iconic genres. Here are some must-have songs:
– “Volver” – Estrella Morente : This classic is ideal for an emotional moment, full of nostalgia and feeling, perfect for the ceremony.
– “Bamboleo” – Gipsy Kings : With its contagious rhythm, this song is perfect to get all the guests dancing during the party.
– “Entre Dos Aguas” – Paco de Lucía : This instrumental flamenco guitar piece is ideal to set the mood for the cocktail party or dinner, adding a touch of sophistication.
– “Corazón Partío” – Alejandro Sanz : A classic of Spanish pop music that never fails, perfect for guests to sing and dance together.
France: Chanson and Romance
French music is known for its elegance and romance, elements that cannot be missing at a wedding in Europe, especially if it is held in France. Here are some songs to consider:
– “La Vie en Rose” – Édith Piaf : A hymn to love, this song is perfect for the first dance or for a romantic moment during the ceremony.
– “Je t’aime… moi non plus” – Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin : This sensual duet is ideal for creating an intimate and passionate atmosphere during the wedding.
– “Les Champs-Élysées” – Joe Dassin : A cheerful and optimistic song, ideal to play during the party or at the end of the night to close with a flourish.
– “Sous le Ciel de Paris” – Yves Montand : This classic is perfect for setting the mood for dinner or for any moment when you want to evoke the spirit of Paris.
Wedding in Europa / Photo via Pinterest
Italy: Opera and Melody
Italian music is synonymous with passion and melody, from opera to romantic ballads. Here are some classics that can’t be missing from your European wedding playlist:
– “O Sole Mio” – Luciano Pavarotti : This aria is ideal for a spectacular moment during the ceremony, evoking the grandeur of Italian opera.
– “Volare” – Domenico Modugno : A joyful and vibrant anthem that will have all the guests singing and dancing during the party.
– “Con te partirò” – Andrea Bocelli : This powerful ballad is perfect for the first dance or for an emotional moment during the ceremony.
– “Ti Amo” – Umberto Tozzi : A classic of Italian music that is ideal for a romantic wedding, creating an atmosphere of love and emotion.
Villa Balbianello / Photo via Perfect Venue
Get help finding the perfect tunes!
Creating the perfect playlist for your European wedding is a task that requires care and attention to detail. By incorporating musical classics from Portugal, Spain, France and Italy, you not only ensure that the music reflects the rich cultural diversity of Europe, but you also create an unforgettable atmosphere for you and your guests.
And to make sure that every detail of your European wedding is perfect, including the musical aspects, the services of Natalia Ortiz from Weddings and Events by Natalia Ortiz, are the ideal choice.
With her experience planning weddings in the most iconic locations in Europe, Natalia will help you create a celebration that resonates with the music and spirit of the place, making your wedding as unique as it is unforgettable.