Why Get Married in Portugal
In recent years, Portugal has become one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for couples planning a destination wedding. There are many reasons why — from the incredible weather and rich cultural heritage to the mouthwatering local cuisine. In this article, I’ve listed 7 compelling reasons why Portugal is the perfect place to celebrate your dream wedding.
Beautiful and diverse wedding venues
From historic palaces and rustic wine estates to sun-kissed beaches and charming hilltop villas, Portugal offers a wide variety of unique wedding venues. Whether you're envisioning a luxurious affair in a castle or a relaxed celebration surrounded by vineyards, you’ll find the perfect setting to match your vision.
2. Excellent Weather Almost All Year
Portugal enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year, especially from April to October. This makes it one of the most reliable countries in Europe for outdoor weddings. Imagine golden sunsets, alfresco dinners, and warm, starlit evenings — all adding to the romance of your big day.
3. Incredible Food and Wine
Portuguese cuisine is one of the country’s hidden gems. Your guests will be treated to a delicious and authentic culinary experience, from fresh seafood to local wines and traditional desserts like pastéis de nata. Many venues also offer farm-to-table menus or wine pairings from their own vineyards.
4. Affordability Compared to Other European Destinations
Portugal offers excellent value for money. You can enjoy a luxury wedding experience — stunning venue, incredible food, expert suppliers — for a lower cost than in places like Italy or France, without compromising on quality or beauty.
5. Easy Access from Major Cities
Portugal is well-connected to the rest of Europe and the world, with direct flights from London, Paris, New York, and many other cities. Lisbon, Porto and Faro airports are all accessible, making travel smooth for you and your guests.
6. Experienced Destination Wedding Professionals
Over the last decade, Portugal has built a strong wedding industry with experienced planners, photographers (hi! 👋), florists and caterers used to working with international couples. You'll be in safe hands with suppliers who understand the needs of destination weddings and can guide you every step of the way.
7. A Romantic Honeymoon Built In
Whether you want to relax by the beach, explore historic cities, hike through nature or taste your way through the wine regions, you can start your honeymoon right after the wedding — without having to go anywhere else. Portugal has it all.
Conclusion
Portugal is more than a beautiful backdrop for your wedding — it’s an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. From warm sunsets and rich traditions to world-class wine and hospitality, this little corner of Europe is made for love stories.
Thinking about getting married in Portugal?
I’m Salomé, a wedding photographer based in the heart of Portugal, and I specialize in capturing destination weddings for couples from around the world.
Let’s talk about your dream day.
Or follow me on Instagram for daily inspiration from real weddings in Portugal.
