5 Romantic Wedding Destinations in Portugal for Your Fairy Tale Wedding

Just a 7-hour flight from New York City lies a beautiful country brimming with culture, romance, and otherworldly natural beauty. If your dream wedding includes pristine beaches, interesting historic sites, and oodles of European charm, set your sights on Portugal!

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When you tie the knot in Portugal, you’ll enjoy swoon-worthy wedding venues, dramatic views, and incredible food. You’ll also score unforgettable wedding photos set against the country’s most jaw-dropping backdrops!

What is the Best Place to Get Married in Portugal?

As with any wedding, choosing the right setting for your destination wedding is extremely important. Luckily, this country puts beauty at your fingertips! You’ll be spoiled for a choice of amazing wedding destinations in Portugal.

To determine which area of Portugal is right for your wedding, consider your personal preferences as well as logistical factors, like proximity to airports.

If you envision your wedding on the beautiful shores of the Mediterranean, consider one of Portugal’s breathtaking coastal towns. If it’s charming medieval towns or city vibes you’re after, consider metropolitan areas like Lisbon or Porto.

What Time of Year is Best to Get Married in Portugal?

Generally speaking, the best time of year to get married in Portugal is in the fall months of September and October or the spring months of April and May. These periods avoid peak summer heat and summer crowds, while also skirting around the rainy winter season.

That being said, “best” is a relative term. Thus, the best time of year to get married in Portugal is the time that best suits your budget, schedule, and preferences.

How Much Does a Destination Wedding Cost in Portugal?

Like any other wedding, costs will depend largely on your number of guests and your own preferences.

However, on average, you can expect to spend between $10,000-$20,000 for a basic wedding for 50 guests. Naturally, costs can increase greatly depending on your choice of food, decor, and other expenses.

5 Most Romantic Wedding Destinations in Portugal

So, where are the most romantic wedding destinations in Portugal? We’re here to tell you!

1. Cascais

The gem of the Portuguese Riviera, Cascais is a charming coastal town that lies just west of Lisbon. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant culture, the area is a popular vacation destination that provides a picturesque setting for your fairy tale wedding.

In Cascais, you’ll stroll the gorgeous Cascais to Estoril promenade, celebrate at buzzing beach bars, and explore elegant 19th-century villas along the sandy shoreline. You’ll also find vibrant nightlife, water activities, and plenty of opportunities for romance.

With a wealth of luxury hotels, charming boutiques, and breathtaking oceanfront venues, Cascias offers picturesque wedding locations to fit any style or aesthetic.

People at a Pub at the Square in Cascais, Portugal

For a swanky and sophisticated vibe, try the luxurious Grande Real Villa Italia Hotel & Spa, where you’ll find 5-star accommodations, enviable amenities, and a healthy dose of European flair. Meanwhile, Arriba by the Sea boasts spectacular ocean views and an atmosphere that’s brimming with modern elegance.

A lighthouse sits on the shore of a body of water

2. Sintra

Twenty minutes from Cascias lies the beautiful town of Sintra. Nestled into the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, this charming historic town is just a short drive from Humberto Delgado International Airport.

Distinguished by colorful buildings and winding, cobblestoned streets, Sintra is often regarded as the most romantic town in Portugal. With its intoxicating blend of Moorish and Gothic architecture, this town is the perfect setting for your dream wedding.

Opened Window in Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal

In Sintra, you’ll find some truly magical wedding venues. For a wedding that’s steeped in history and enveloped in natural beauty, try Quinta da Regaleira. This incredible estate features lush gardens, enchanting grottos, and a real-life palace that’s straight out of a fairytale.

Quinta da Regaleira Castle, Sintra, Portugal

Meanwhile, breathtaking palaces like Monserrate Palace, National Palace, and the Castle of the Moors offer jaw-dropping views and the kind of regal atmosphere that’s entirely befitting of your special day.

Details on the Ceiling in the Monserrate Palace, Sintra, Portugal

Finally, for a truly unforgettable venue, consider the incredible Pena Palace. This beautiful castle is often regarded as Sintra’s prime wedding venue.

Here, weddings take place on the rooftop and offer sweeping panoramic views of the town and landscape. What could be more romantic?

3. The Algarve

If you’ve ever seen photos of Portugal’s dramatic seaside cliffs, chances are you’ve seen photos of the Algarve.

Located in the southernmost region of Portugal, the sun-soaked Algarve boasts gorgeous ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and an array of charming, whitewashed villages. The region also offers a relaxed, laid-back vibe that you – and your guests – will love!

Top View of the Coastline in Algarve Region, Portugal

From sandy beaches to the vibrant nightlife of Lagos, your guests will have plenty to explore on their Portugal getaway. History buffs will also discover interesting historical sites like the former Moorish capital of Silves.

Algarve offers a plethora of incredible wedding venues. Couples can tie the knot at one of the region’s luxurious beach resorts, golf resorts, or even on a private yacht. If an unforgettable setting is on your wedding wish list, consider a wedding on the cliffs of Algarve, or even in a sea cave or grotto!

People Near a Body of Water Under a Cave Hole

4. Porto

Porto is a vibrant, metropolitan city located on the coast of northwest Portugal. Direct flights from the United States are rare, so getting there typically involves a transfer in London, Paris, or Frankfurt. However, don’t let the travel deter you from this incredible Portuguese wedding destination!

Situated on the banks of the beautiful Duoro River, Porto offers winding, cobblestoned streets, Medieval architecture, and an impossibly romantic ambiance.

For especially enchanting views, opt for a venue in the medieval Ribeira district. For a traditional hotel wedding, try The Yeatman Hotel, where you’ll be served by a Michelin-starred chef and enjoy magical views of the Duoro. You’ll also get fantastic, dramatic wedding photos using the river and the old town as a backdrop.

Coimbra

If your fantasy wedding includes a little less hustle and bustle, Coimbra is the perfect solution. This Medieval town sits on the stately Mondego River and is home to the University of Coimbra.

Coimbra offers plenty to do, see, and discover, however, it’s also a little less touristy than other potential wedding destinations in Portugal. The result is a beautiful respite and an authentic Portuguese travel experience.

Here, you’ll wander the streets of this UNESCO World Heritage City and explore important cultural sites like Porto’s statuesque Old Cathedral.

Historic district of beautiful city with aged buildings and monastery

You’re sure to get the fairy tale wedding of your dreams in one of Coimbra’s many romantic venues. Options include hotels, palaces, and lush, beautiful gardens.

Be sure to check out the magical Convento de Sandelgas, where you’ll find elegance and romance in spades.