Say ‘I do’ in Style: Portugal is my wedding destination!
About a wedding in Portugal
Naturally stunning backdrop: From picturesque beaches to charming castles, Portugal caters to diverse wedding aesthetics.
Relatively affordable: Compared to other European destinations, Portugal offers a more budget-friendly option for wedding celebrations.
Delicious cuisine and wine: Treat your guests to authentic Portuguese flavors and renowned wines for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Easy accessibility: With numerous international airports, reaching Portugal is convenient for you and your guests.
Legal marriage for foreigners: UK citizens can legally marry in Portugal, making it a hassle-free destination wedding choice.
Are you dreaming of a fairytale wedding that brings romance and European charm?
Think about Portugal, known for its welcoming people and as an attractive option for your special day.
This country mixes history, culture, and natural beauty perfectly. Whether you want a big celebration or a small gathering, Portugal has many incredible wedding venues and a magical place to tie the knot for your big day.
There are stunning venues and tasty food. Your wedding experience in Portugal can be made just for you, making memories that can last a lifetime. Many couples choose a symbolic ceremony.
This lets them create their vows in beautiful settings throughout the country. However, the legal ceremony is also possible and fairly easy for couples from the UK.
Portugal is packed with enchanting destinations, historical landmarks, vibrant festivals, and beautiful natural wonders. Here’s a quick guide to some must-visit spots and popular festivals throughout the country:
Places of Interest
Lisbon – Portugal's vibrant capital with historic sites like the Belém Tower, and Jerónimos Monastery, and neighborhoods such as Alfama and Bairro Alto. Take a tram ride and enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere.
Porto – Known for its charming riverside district and the world-famous Port wine cellars. Don’t miss the Dom Luís I Bridge and the Livraria Lello bookstore.
Sintra – A fairytale town with colorful palaces, lush parks, and castles, including the whimsical Pena Palace and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira.
Douro Valley – UNESCO-listed wine region with breathtaking vineyard landscapes. River cruises offer a scenic way to explore the area.
Algarve – Known for golden beaches, striking cliffs, and picturesque villages. Top spots include Lagos, Albufeira, and the Benagil Cave.
Évora – A UNESCO World Heritage city with ancient Roman ruins, the Temple of Diana, and the intriguing Chapel of Bones.
Madeira Island – Known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” it offers stunning mountain scenery, beautiful gardens, and famous wine.
Portuguese cuisine is rich, hearty, and diverse, deeply rooted in local ingredients and centuries-old traditions. Influenced by its coastal location and Mediterranean climate, Portuguese dishes are known for their simplicity, fresh flavors, and use of seafood, olive oil, herbs, and spices. Here are some classic highlights:
Seafood Delights
Bacalhau – Salted cod is a Portuguese staple, said to be prepared in over 365 ways. Popular variations include Bacalhau à Brás (with eggs and potatoes) and Bacalhau com Natas (creamy baked cod).
Sardinhas Assadas – Grilled sardines are a summertime favorite, often served with crusty bread or potatoes, especially popular during Lisbon’s Santo António festival.
Polvo à Lagareiro – Octopus baked in olive oil with garlic and potatoes, perfect for those who love tender, flavorful seafood.
Arroz de Marisco – A rich seafood rice dish, similar to Spanish paella but creamier, packed with mussels, prawns, clams, and fresh herbs.
Meat & Poultry
Cozido à Portuguesa – A hearty, slow-cooked stew with various types of meat (pork, beef, and chicken), sausages, and vegetables. It’s a true comfort food!
Frango Piri-Piri – Portugal’s famous spicy grilled chicken, marinated in a hot piri-piri sauce and char-grilled for a smoky flavor.
Leitão à Bairrada – A traditional Portuguese suckling pig, slow-roasted until crispy, typically served with potatoes and orange slices.
Soups & Stews
Caldo Verde – A beloved soup made with potatoes, kale, garlic, and slices of chouriço sausage, it’s a warming comfort food found at nearly every celebration.
Feijoada – A rich bean stew with pork, originating from Northern Portugal. Similar to the Brazilian version, but with a unique Portuguese twist.
Bread & Pastries
Broa de Milho – A dense, rustic cornbread, often served alongside stews and soups.
Pastéis de Nata – The iconic custard tarts with a crispy, flaky crust and creamy filling, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.
Bola de Berlim – Similar to a doughnut, filled with sweet custard cream, often enjoyed as a sweet treat by the beach.
Wines & Spirits
Port Wine – A sweet fortified wine produced in the Douro Valley, best enjoyed as a dessert wine or paired with cheese.
Vinho Verde – A refreshing “green wine” from Northern Portugal, known for its slight fizz and light, zesty flavor—perfect for warm days.
Ginjinha – A cherry liqueur popular in Lisbon and Óbidos, typically served in small cups and sipped neat.
Desserts
Arroz Doce – Creamy rice pudding, flavored with lemon and cinnamon.
Queijadas de Sintra – Small cheese and cinnamon tarts from Sintra, sweet and lightly spiced.
Pão de Ló – A light, airy sponge cake that can be found in various regional varieties, often enjoyed during Easter.
Portuguese cuisine is a delicious journey through the country’s history and culture—each dish is full of flavor and warmth!
Festivals in Portugal
Carnival (February/March) – Celebrated nationwide with parades, music, and costumes. Notable celebrations in Loulé (Algarve), Torres Vedras, and Madeira.
Festa de São João (June 23-24, Porto) – Porto’s lively midsummer festival includes music, dancing, fireworks, and a unique tradition of tapping others on the head with plastic hammers!
Festa de Santo António (June, Lisbon) – Lisbon honors Saint Anthony with street parties, music, and the famous grilled sardines along the Alfama neighborhood’s cobbled streets.
NOS Alive Festival (July, Lisbon) – An international music festival drawing top rock and indie artists, held in the coastal Algés area near Lisbon.
Medieval Festival of Óbidos (July) – Step back in time in the historic town of Óbidos, transformed into a medieval fair with artisans, knights, and entertainment.
Festa da Ria Formosa (August, Algarve) – A seafood festival in Faro celebrating the bounty of the Ria Formosa lagoon. Expect fresh seafood, local crafts, and music.
Wine Harvest Festival (September, Douro Valley) – Participate in grape harvest activities, and traditional wine-making, and sample delicious wines in the picturesque Douro region.
Portugal is a treasure trove of culture, history, and beauty that guarantees a memorable experience any time of year!
Traveling from the UK to Portugal is quite convenient, with multiple options for flights, accommodation, and transportation. Here’s a guide to help you plan:
Getting There
Direct Flights: There are frequent direct flights from major UK cities (London, Manchester, Birmingham, and more) to Lisbon, Porto, Faro (Algarve), and Funchal (Madeira).
Airlines: British Airways, TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair, and easyJet offer competitive options, with flight times averaging 2.5-3 hours.
Best Time to Book: Book well in advance, especially if traveling in peak seasons (summer school holidays, Easter, or Christmas).
Getting Around
Public Transport: Portugal has a reliable network of trains and buses connecting cities and smaller towns. Trains run regularly between Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
Car Hire: For more freedom to explore, car hire is recommended, especially for the Algarve and Douro Valley. Be aware that many roads are tolled.
Local Transport: Lisbon and Porto both have metro systems, trams, and buses, making city exploration easy.
Best Times to Visit
Spring (April-May): Ideal weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes make spring a fantastic time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer (June-August): Perfect for beach destinations, especially the Algarve, but expect more tourists and higher prices.
Autumn (September-October): Great for wine lovers, as the Douro Valley grape harvest season is in full swing, and temperatures remain pleasant.
Winter (November-March): Milder weather, especially in the south, is ideal for escaping colder UK winters. Madeira is particularly beautiful during the Christmas and New Year season.
Choosing the right venue is important for your wedding. Portugal has many options to fit what you want. You can say your vows near the Atlantic Ocean or choose a grand historic estate.
If you want a mix of ease and charm, places like Lisbon, Porto, and Sintra have lots of wedding venues. You can find stylish hotels with great views or lovely gardens. These city settings add a lively touch to your special day. We adore Portugal and you can see the venues we currently offer here.
Majestic Castles and Historical Sites for a Royal Feel
Step back in time and enjoy the special charm of Portugal's castles and palaces, which are perfect for wedding ceremonies and showcase stunning examples of medieval architecture. Picture saying "I do" inside a medieval fortress belonging to Anglican churches, with hundreds of years of history around you, including influences from the Scottish church. Many of these places have beautiful designs, well-kept gardens, and amazing views. They create a fairytale setting for your wedding day.
Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its lovely palaces and castles. Pena Palace has bright colors and unique designs that give a storybook vibe. Quinta da Regaleira has magical gardens and secret caves that feel mysterious.
Whichever castle or palace you pick, having a wedding venue filled with history will bring a special touch of grandeur to your celebration.
Scenic Beachfront Locations for Sunset Nuptials
If you have always wanted a barefoot wedding with sand under your feet, Portugal's beautiful coast with its sandy beaches, especially in the Cascais region and in Lagos, is a great place for beach weddings. The Algarve is known for its golden sands and blue waters, making it a popular choice. However, clifftop weddings with breathtaking views are more popular. Imagine saying your vows as the sun sets, lighting up your special day with a warm glow.
When planning a beach wedding in Portugal, here are some important things to think about:
Permits and Regulations: You need to get the right permits from the local maritime police to have a legal and smooth ceremony.
Weather Considerations: Portugal has a lot of sunshine, but it's smart to have a backup plan for any surprises in the weather.
Privacy and Logistics: If you choose a public beach, you may need extra steps to keep your wedding private and help your guests.
With the right planning, a beach wedding in Portugal can be an amazing experience for you and your loved ones.
Navigating Legal Requirements for UK Citizens
Getting married in another country means you need to know the legal rules. Fortunately, Portugal has a simple process for UK citizens. This makes it a great choice for couples who want a wedding that is legally recognised in a different country.
It is important to collect and organize the right documents. This way, you can have a smooth and pleasant wedding experience. It is good to check with your local consulate or embassy for the latest details and any specific requirements. Our lovely wedding planner in Portugal can assist with all legal wedding requirements.
Essential Paperwork for a Smooth Process
Gathering the right paperwork is important, even though it seems easy. First, contact your local Portuguese embassy or consulate. They will help you with the specific documents you need and any arrangements that must be made.
Typically, you will need:
Valid passports that expire more than six months after your wedding date.
Original birth certificates issued within six months of your wedding date.
If needed, papers showing the end of any previous marriages, like divorce decrees or death certificates.
Parental or guardian permission if either person is under 18 years old.
Make sure all documents are translated into Portuguese by a certified translator. The process may also need an Apostille stamp to confirm their validity in Portugal.
Incorporating Portuguese Wedding Traditions
Make your wedding special by adding some lovely Portuguese traditions. From meaningful rituals to lively music and dance, these Portuguese elements can make your day more memorable.
Think about you and your partner doing the "Wedding Cozido." This traditional dance shows unity and shared success. Using these customs gives your big day an authentic feel that highlights the beauty of Portugal's culture.
Unique Customs
Portugal has many wedding traditions that make your special day unique. You can decide to have a traditional Catholic wedding, or you can opt for a symbolic ceremony. The symbolic choice lets you add personal touches.
In a classic wedding, the bride walks down the aisle with her father. The groom waits for her at the altar. After they exchange vows, they receive thirteen coins called "arras." A priest blesses these coins before the couple exchanges them. These coins show the groom's promise to take care of his wife and their future family.
If you want a more personalized celebration, a symbolic ceremony could be the best fit. It lets you include parts that are important to your relationship while enjoying the romantic vibe of a Portuguese wedding.
Dishes to Serve
A wedding feast in Portugal offers a tasty experience that your guests will enjoy. They can enjoy fresh seafood caught from the Atlantic Ocean or hearty meat dishes like "Cozido à Portuguesa.” This is a slow-cooked stew filled with different meats and vegetables.
No celebration in Portugal is truly finished without their famous wine. Guests can drink refreshing Vinho Verde or rich reds from the Douro Valley. Each sip allows them to toast to your joy.
A dessert table at a traditional wedding should have “Pasteis de Nata.” These are the famous custard tarts that are soft and melt in your mouth. Your wedding meal will end on a sweet note, leaving your guests with the tasty flavors of Portugal.
Conclusion
Portugal is an amazing place for your dream wedding. You can choose from beautiful castles or calm beach spots. For UK citizens, understanding the legal requirements is important when planning to marry in Portugal. Adding Portuguese traditions and tasty local food can make your ceremony special. Enjoy this unique experience and make great memories in the stunning scenery of Portugal. Whether you want a royal event or a sunset wedding, Portugal offers a perfect setting for saying "I do" in style. Start planning your fairy-tale wedding today!
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the best months to plan a wedding in Portugal?
Portugal has sunny weather most of the year. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) have nice temperatures and smaller crowds. This makes these seasons perfect for a wedding, especially in popular places like the Algarve, Lisbon, or Estoril. However, if you would like to keep away from the high season and prices, the beginning of October is recommended by our wedding planner - the weather is just perfect, and Ocean is warm from the summer, and the tourists are mostly gone.
