7 Stunning Location for a Destination Wedding in Portugal
WHERE TO GET MARRIED IN PORTUGAL? Why come to Portugal to get married? What are the best wedding venues in Portugal?
Let’s answer all these questions
Portugal is one of the most stunning and diverse destinations for couples looking to tie the knot in a breathtaking setting. With its mix of historic cities, golden beaches, lush vineyards, and romantic palaces, it offers a variety of backdrops for your dream wedding. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony in a sun-drenched vineyard, a luxurious palace wedding, or an oceanfront celebration, Portugal has something for every couple.
No matter what type of wedding you’re planning, choosing the location for it is one of the first things you must during your planning period.
What is the best time of year to have a wedding in Portugal?
One of the reasons Portugal stands out as a wedding destination is its fantastic weather. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, couples can plan their special day with confidence, knowing they’re likely to enjoy beautiful skies and warm temperatures. Additionally, Portugal is known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and world-class wines, ensuring that both you and your guests will have an unforgettable experience.
How much does a wedding venue in Portugal typically cost?
Beyond its natural beauty and cultural richness, Portugal is also home to some of the most incredible wedding venues in Europe. From elegant manor houses in Lisbon to beachfront resorts in the Algarve, the country offers a wide range of options for couples seeking something unique and extraordinary. Not to mention, Portugal is one of the more affordable wedding destinations in Western Europe, offering high-end services at competitive prices.
The cost of a wedding venue in Portugal varies depending on the location, type of venue, guest count, and included services. Luxury venues, such as palaces, five-star hotels, and private estates, typically range from €10,000 to €30,000+, often including exclusive use of the venue, catering, and event coordination. Mid-range venues, including historic manor houses, vineyards, and boutique hotels, usually cost between €5,000 and €10,000. For those on a tighter budget, there are charming countryside estates and beachfront venues available for €1,500 to €5,000.
When should I contact my wedding vendor?
The rule is the sooner the better. Wedding venues in Portugal are getting more and more demand and are starting to be fully booked months and even a year before the date. If you don’t want to miss out on that location you were dreaming about, make sure you contact them plenty of time ahead.
What are the legal requirements for getting married in Portugal?
To legally marry in Portugal, foreign couples must provide certain documents, including valid passports, birth certificates, and a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) from their home country. Documents must be translated into Portuguese and certified with an Apostille. Civil ceremonies are conducted by the Portuguese registry office (Conservatória do Registo Civil) and require submission of paperwork at least 30 days in advance. Religious weddings can be legally recognized if registered with civil authorities. Same-sex marriage is legal in Portugal. Many couples choose a symbolic ceremony to avoid legal complexities and complete official paperwork in their home country.
If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” in Portugal, you’ll want to explore the best locations the country has to offer. In this guide, we’ll take you through seven stunning regions, each with its own charm and character, and recommend the top venues in each area. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Sintra, the rustic charm of Alentejo, or the coastal beauty of the Algarve, this list will help you find the perfect place to celebrate your love.
1. Lisbon – The Charming Capital
Lisbon blends rich history, modern charm, and stunning coastal views, offering a perfect balance of romance and energy. With iconic landmarks and trendy neighbourhoods, it’s ideal for couples seeking both a lively atmosphere and a picturesque setting, whether in a historic palace or a chic rooftop venue.
Best Wedding Venues in Lisbon:
Palácio de Xabregas
Pestana Palace
Estufa Fria
Forte da Cruz
Palácio de Correio-Mor
Palácio Marqueses da Fronteira
Vandelli Garden
Quinta da Bichinha
Solar de Pancas
La Distillerie
Quinta Nova do Hespanhol
Páteo Alfacinha
Quinta do Torneiro
Areias do SeixoPalácio da Bacalôa
Rio do Prado
Sublime Comporta
Quinta da Comporta
2. Porto – A Romantic Riverside Escape
Porto offers picturesque views of the Douro River and charming, colourful streets, making it a beautiful setting for a wedding. Known for its rich wine culture, it’s perfect for couples who love wine and seek an intimate, romantic atmosphere for their celebration, surrounded by stunning landscapes and history.
Best Wedding Venues in Porto:
The Yeatman
Palácio do Freixo
Quinta do Vallado
Solar de Merufe
Casa da Calçada
Casa dos Arcos Boavista
3. The Algarve – Sun-Kissed Beach Weddings
If you want a cliff side wedding with amazing views over golden beaches and year-round sunshine, then The Alharve is the right place for you. It’s ideal for couples seeking a coastal celebration, offering the perfect mix of natural beauty and luxurious venues for an unforgettable day.
Best Wedding Venues in the Algarve:
Vila Vita Parc
Pine Cliffs Resort
Monte Rei Golf & Country Club
Tivoli Carvoeiro
Casa do Lago
Estoi Palace
Quinta do Lago
Quinta do Muro
Solar do Paço
Pousada Palácio de Estoi
Monte Amarelo
4. Douro Valley – Vineyard Elegance
The Douro Valley is renowned for its beautiful terraced vineyards and breathtaking river landscapes, offering a picturesque setting for a wedding. Perfect for wine enthusiasts, it’s ideal for rustic-chic weddings, with charming estates and wineries that provide an intimate, elegant atmosphere surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Best Wedding Venues in Douro Valley:
Six Senses Douro Valley
Quinta da Pacheca
Quinta do Crasto
Quinta Nova
Casa dos Varais
5. Sintra – A Fairytale Setting
Sintra is defintely one of the best places in Portugal to get married. You have a bit of everything, mystical forests, stunning palaces, beautiful beaches and overal an enchanting atmosphere. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is the perfect setting for a romantic and intimate wedding.
Best Wedding Venues in Sintra:
Palácio de Monserrate
Quinta da Penalva
Tivoli Palácio de Seteais
Casa dos Penedos
Quinta da Bella Vista
Camélia Gardens
Ritz Carlton Penha Longa
6. Alentejo – Rustic Romance in the Countryside
Alentejo is known for its rolling plains, charming villages, and peaceful ambiance, offering a serene and intimate setting for a wedding. Perfect for nature lovers, it’s ideal for couples seeking a countryside-inspired celebration, with stunning rustic venues that blend seamlessly into the tranquil landscapes of this beautiful region.
Best Wedding Venues in Alentejo:
São Lourenço do Barrocal
Torre de Palma Wine Hotel
Herdade da Malhadinha Nova
L’AND Vineyards
Monte da Ravasqueira
Monte do Ramalho
Herdade dos Grous
Herdade da Cortesia
7. Braga – A Blend of Tradition and Elegance
Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, is celebrated for its historical charm and stunning baroque churches. With its rich cultural heritage and traditional ambiance, it’s the perfect setting for couples who appreciate history and tradition. Braga offers a timeless atmosphere, ideal for a wedding steeped in culture and elegance.
Best Wedding Venues in Braga:
Mosteiro de Amares
Solar do Paço
Pousada Mosteiro de Guimarães
Quinta Lago dos Cisnes
Bom Jesus do Monte
Solar de Leva
Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Landim
As you can see, Portugal is filled with magical venues for your destination wedding, from the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the serene vineyards of Douro Valley and the stunning beaches of the Algarve. Choosing a location is very important for your wedding day to be memorable and the best day of your life.
You want to make sure you choose the venue that best suits your needs and vision. Have a quick look at my article, How to Choose a Wedding Venue, to know a few important things to keep in mind while choosing your wedding venue.
Let me help you capture every beautiful moment of your special day. Ask me about my wedding photography services, and let’s create unforgettable memories together in one of these stunning locations!
