Table of Contents:

• Where is Portugal?
  • How to travel to Portugal
  • Getting around Portugal
• Why Elope in Portugal?
• Important Things to Know About Eloping in Portugal
• 8 Best Places to Elope in Portugal
  • Lisbon
  • The Azores
  • Madeira
  • Porto
  • Sintra
  • Peneda-Gerês National Park
  • The Algarve
  • Douro Valley
• Best Time of Year to Elope in Portugal
• Legalities of Getting Married in Portugal
  • Legal Ceremony vs. Symbolic Ceremony
  • Portugal Marriage FAQ’s
• Portugal Elopement & Wedding Photographer

Ever since I visited Portugal for the first time, I knew it was somewhere I’d be thinking about every day until the next time I got to go back. There’s nothing not to love about Portugal, with its dramatic medieval castles, romantic villages, idyllic beaches, and exquisite local dishes; all of which make it a phenomenal elopement destination. And that’s what we’re here to talk about today, in case you couldn’t already tell by the title of this guide: how to elope in Portugal! I’m diving into all the most important things you need to know not only about getting in married in Portugal, but also just visiting this marvelous country and planning out the logistics. You’ll leave with a better understanding of why you should elope in Portugal, how to choose the best date for you, a list of stunning locations to choose from, and so much more. Cheers, or as they say in Portugal, “saúde,” to planning a Portugal elopement that you and your love will never forget!

Where is Portugal?

Who’s ready for a quick geography lesson? 

Before we dive into everything elopement-related, let’s briefly talk about where Portugal is on the map in case you’re not familiar (click here if you want to literally see it on a map). Portugal is a southern European country located on the Iberian Peninsula, bordered by Spain to the east and the North Atlantic Ocean to the west. Dating back to 1143, when the country officially gained independence, Portugal boasts a wide array of architecture from the 1500s-1800s, and a predominantly Roman Catholic population with strong religious values. The country has a very traditional and fascinating folklore, and the Portuguese tend to place a lot of importance on things such as art, dance, and music; however, the culture really depends on what area of Portugal you’re in!

Quick fun fact: Portugal is actually the oldest country in Europe—wild, right?

How to travel to Portugal

Assuming you’ll be coming from out of the country for your elopement, you’ll want to get to Portugal by plane. Portugal has three international airports that you’ll most likely use for your trip–Lisbon Airport (LIS), Porto Airport (OPO), and Faro Airport (FAO)—in addition to a variety of smaller, domestic airports. When I give you a list of Portugal elopement locations later on in this guide, I’ll be sure to specify which airport you should fly into for each one.

If you’re traveling to Portugal for your elopement from another European country nearby, you could either fly or take advantage of the amazing European railway system! It’s up to you and how you prefer to travel + what you’re most comfortable with, as well as your budget and time constraints.

Getting around Portugal

As far as getting around Portugal once you’re there, the best mode of transportation really depends on your travel plans. If you’ll be staying in bigger cities for the duration of your elopement celebration, you can make use of the city trains. If you’re going to be venturing to more remote locations out in nature, farther away from civilization, renting a car or hiring a driver will be your best bet, since there likely won’t be much (if any) public transportation available to you. If you’re leaving the mainland to visit the Azores, you’ll be taking a small plane to get there, and then you can travel between the islands by boat. Again, it’s dependent on where you’ll be, what your transportation budget is, and what you’re most comfortable with; e.g. if you know you’re not confident in your international driving skills, opt to hire a driver, rely on Ubers/Lyfts, or stay somewher that has plenty of public transit options!

One cool thing about transportation in Portugal: certain places (like Lisbon and Porto) offer a “tourist card,” which gives you free or discounted public transport, as well as entrance into some tourist attractions! Check out the Lisbon Card and Porto Card, and see if either one makes sense for where you’re going + the activities you’ll be doing.

Why Elope in Portugal?

I could rave forever and ever about how much I love Portugal, but I’m going to do my best to keep this brief; after all, we do have a lot of other information to get to in this guide! Here’s a list of the top reasons why you should elope in Portugal + why I’m confident you’ll fall in love with it just like I did:

• The old-world charm is incredibly romantic: I love a good city vibe with modern architecture, don’t get me wrong—but the old-world charm of many Portuguese towns and cities is so inviting. Whether you’re walking through the streets of Porto, exploring Lisbon’s quaint hidden treasures, or relaxing on the coast, you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with the romance of it all—it’s the perfect place to elope.
• You have so many diverse locations to choose from: Portugal seriously has it all. Want to elope on the beach? You can! Prefer to stay in the middle of the city and check out the world’s oldest bookstore? Do it. If you’d rather explore a small Portugese village and get to know the local culture instead, go for it. Or maybe you want to head off the beaten path into a breathtaking nature preserve—Portugal has plenty. It’s truly such a diverse country that has something to offer to every type of visitor, so your elopement experience can be whatever you want it to be!
• You can stay on the mainland, or travel to the islands: Speaking of the diverse range of locations, one of my favorite things about Portugal is that you can spend time exploring the mainland, and then head off to the islands for a totally new type of adventure. I’m not sure I’ve ever been anywhere more beautiful than the Azores, so don’t worry—I’ll be including that in my list of elopement locations a little further down in this guide!
• The food + wine are to die for: Portuguese food is simply *chef’s kiss* (literally). And if you’re big wine people, you’re going to love Portugal. The wine country in Northern Portugal is spectacular, with rugged coastline views, massive olive orchards, and some of the most incredible wine you’ll ever taste. Just imagine tying the knot along the lush coastline, and then heading off to a marvelous winery to celebrate for the evening—yes, please!

Not quite set on Portugal yet, and want a few more options? Check out my Ultimate Europe Elopement Guide for 2024-2025 for a whole list of the most beautiful places to elope in Europe, plus so much more.

Important Things to Know About Eloping in Portugal

We’ll get to the best Portugal elopement locations in just a minute (I know you’re excited for those!), but first, I wanted to go over a few important things to know about visiting and eloping in Portugal:

1. The main languages spoken in Portugal are Portuguese, English, and French: Around 14% of people in Portugal speak English, and it’s widely spoken in Lisbon, so you’ll typically be able to find at least somebody near you who you can ask for help/recommendations/etc.
2. Portugal’s currency is the Euro: As of late January 2024, the exchange rate is $1 USD to €0.92 EUR. I recommend having a good amount of cash on hand, as Portugal isn’t as credit card-friendly as other European countries.
3. You won’t need a visa: If you’re a citizen of the US, UK, or Canada, you can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days in any six-month period without needing a visa!
4. Portugal is extremely walkable: Make sure to bring good shoes for lots of walking, as you can often get around without needing any kind of transportation (especially in cities like Lisbon).
5. International Driver’s Permits: If you have a driver’s license issued in the UK, US, or Canada, you won’t need an IDP to drive around. 

8 Best Places to Elope in Portugal

It was incredibly difficult to narrow down this list to just 8 places, but I figure it’ll give you a great place to start—and then I’m always happy to help you research more locations if none of these are right for you! Without further ado, allow me to introduce you to 8 of the best places to elope in Portugal that are going to take your dang breath away.

1. Lisbon

First up is Lisbon, Portugal’s capital—a.k.a. one of my favorite cities I’ve ever been to! This hilly + coastal city is home to endless hidden treasures and oh-so-charming streets, as well as iconic landmarks such as the historic São Jorge Castle. Locals are incredibly welcoming and friendly to foreigners, which makes it super easy to get around and find all the best local spots. The pastel-colored buildings that fill the old city are really beautiful to see, especially with the recognizable 25 de Abril Bridge in the backdrop; a bridge that’s essentially identical to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. If you’re looking for a place that offers a mix of modern amenities, romantic cobblestone streets, old-world charm, and coastal beauty, Lisbon is a dream come true!

2. The Azores

Now I’ll be fully honest: I’m going to be very impartial here and say that the Azores are probably one of the most breathtaking places I have ever been. So yeah, they would definitely, without a doubt make for a phenomenal elopement location! The Azores are an archipelago off of the mainland, in the North Atlantic Ocean’s Macaronesia region, and are made up of nine insanely beautiful volcanic islands. Best known for their dramatic landscapes, lush green pastures, small fishing villages, and black sand beaches, the Azores are a literal paradise for any couples who love being out in nature and having unforgettable experiences, such as relaxing in geothermal hot springs, hiking to the top of a dormant volcano, or going whale watching. There’s a reason they’re often called the “Hawaii of Europe”!

3. Madeira

Madeira is another spectacular tropical setting that’ll bring all your beach elopement dreams to life! It’s an archipelago off of the northwest coast of Africa and is technically an autonomous region of Portugal, boasting a true island oasis full of palm trees, forests, small towns, and lush green mountains. The crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches are to die for, whether you’re the type of couple who wants to go hiking along the coast or spend your days lounging around on the beach with a good book; either way, the warm climate is incredible for laid-back, nature-inspired elopements. You could even head out for a sunset boat ride on the water, or go snorkeling/scuba diving to see the incredible wildlife that the ocean has to offer!

4. Porto

Porto is a city in Northern Portugal, located along the Douro River around 3 hours north of Lisbon. It’s most known for its rich history, romantic atmosphere, ancient churches, and, most of all, its world-famous port wine! Porto has a bit more of a traditional feel when compared to Lisbon, and it’s about half the size—so if you’d like to stay in a smaller city with fewer large tourist attractions (but just as many incredible restaurants, scenic views, and beautiful architecture), Porto may be the better option for you. It’s the perfect elopement location if your ideal vacation consists of time spent just exploring the city, walking through the alleyways and venturing into the streets to find hidden local treasures!

5. Sintra

If luxurious resorts and idyllic beaches are more your vibe than the city, you have to consider eloping in Sintra. It’s a resort town along the coast, nestled in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, and boasts a wide range of magnificent destinations to check out, from spectacular beaches, to stunning resorts, to a dramatic hilltop palace with the most phenomenal architecture. Sintra is the epitome of European romanticism, with a variety of gorgeous monuments, enchanting gardens, gothic architecture, and lush greenery along the coastline; I wouldn’t blame you if you never wanted to leave! Sintra would make a perfect backdrop for some sort of magical, romantic fairytale—so why not create your own by eloping here?

6. Peneda-Gerês National Park

Situated in the Northwestern area of Portugal, Peneda-Gerês National Park (a.k.a. Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês) is the only national park in Portugal! If you don’t want to leave the mainland to get to the Azores, this park is a pretty dang close second in terms of natural beauty and jaw-dropping scenery: you’ll be able to explore rolling hills, towering mountains, winding rivers, enchanting waterfalls, small mountain villages, and so much more. Whether you want to spend your time hiking through the stunning mountain trails, chasing waterfalls, or finding all the best local eateries in the area, this national park is a MUST if you’re traveling to this part of Portugal! 

7. The Algarve

Just in case this list hasn’t provided you with enough tropical oases yet, I’ve got one more for you: the Algarve region of Southern Portugal. It has everything: we’re talking neverending, pristine sandy beaches, jagged golden cliffs, vibrant blue water, and sunshine, all of which draw over 4 million people to the area every single year. This coastline is essentially every beach lover’s wildest fantasy come to life, with the most beautiful lagoons and caves to explore, incredible water for swimming, and so many amazing things to do on shore. Lined with villas, luxurious hotels, and upscale restaurants + bars, the Algarve is a dream location for couples with a little bit of a bougier taste!

8. Douro Valley

Last but not least, the Douro Valley is THE wine destination of Portugal. The terraced hills and winding Douro river come together to create absolutely breathtaking mountainous landscapes, where you’ll find endless vineyards that produce the port wine that Portugal is so famous for. Lush grapes, phenomenal wine, and stunning views all around—what more could you ask for? I swear this area was created for romantic getaways and unforgettable celebrations!

Best Time of Year to Elope in Portugal

Choosing the right date for your elopement is nearly as important as choosing the right location, as the time of year will have a massive impact on how your elopement pans out. I’m a big believer that we can (and will) create magic rain or shine, so it’s important that no matter what season you choose to elope, you’re prepared to embrace whatever may come your way!

Here are a few of the most important things to consider when choosing a time of year to elope in

Portugal:

• What region of Portugal you’re eloping in + that region’s climate
• How the landscapes/views change throughout the seasons
• Precipitation
• Temperatures
• Humidity
• Crowds/tourists
• Travel costs
• Activities available (e.g. hiking, swimming, scuba diving)

In general, I’d say the best time of year to elope in Portugal is during the shoulder seasons; a.k.a. spring (March-May) or fall (September-October). One of the best parts about Portugal is that many regions stay pretty warm even in the spring and fall, and that’s when you’ll typically encounter significantly fewer tourists than you would during peak season (summer: June-August). You could absolutely opt for a winter elopement if you want the best chance at a bit more privacy, as crowds have typically disappeared by November up until March, but note that October-April is the rainy season in Portugal. So it really depends on what your personal priorities are: 

If you’d rather elope with as few tourists around as possible, elope in the winter (November-March). Or if you really want to elope during the summer, try to pick a weekday and/or a more secluded location, rather than a popular touristy spot on a weekend!

If you’d rather elope when the weather is warmest, elope in the summer (July-August). Keep in mind that these are the busiest months, and travel costs will typically be bumped up a bit.

If you want warm, comfortable weather and would prefer to avoid tourists, elope in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-October).

Legalities of Getting Married in Portugal

Finally, let’s talk about the legal side of eloping in Portugal. We’ll start with some basic FAQ’s to ensure you understand everything that goes into a marriage in Portugal!

Portugal Marriage FAQ’s

Can you get married in Portgual if you are not a resident?

Yes! As long as you go through the proper process of obtaining your license, and follow the local laws of the area you get married in, you can get married in Portugal whether or not you’re a resident.

Can US citizens get married in Portugal?

US citizens can get married in Portugal, assuming they follow the correct process of getting a Portuguese mariage license through the US Embassy and local government.

What is needed to get married in Portugal?

Here are the documents you’ll need to get married in Portugal as a US citizen:

• Original certified birth certificate: must be issued within the past 6 months and translated into Portuguese
• Passport and/or resident permit: You’ll need your passport, and, if you’re a resident of Portugal, your resident card.
• Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage: You’ll need to schedule an appointment with the US Embassy in Lisbon’s notarial services here, and get a statement of eligibility to marry to present to the Civil Registry Office.
• Divorce certificate (if applicable)
• Death certificate (if applicable)

For further information about how to get your documents certified and translated, visit the US Embassy website.

Is my marriage recognized in the US if I get married in Portugal?

Yes; as long as you go through the legal process of getting your Portuguese marriage license, your marriage will be legally recognized in the US as well.

Legal Ceremony vs. Symbolic Ceremony

Before you decide to elope in Portugal, it’s important that you understand the legalities around doing so, and that you decide what option will be best for you. There are two, really: you can either have a legal ceremony or a symbolic ceremony. 

A legal ceremony involves going through the process of obtaining a Portuguese marriage license through the US Embassy & Consulate (if you’re US citizens). This process can sometimes be pretty lengthy and confusing, as you’ll need to get certain documents certified, potentially translated, and request a license from a Portuguese Civil Registrar Office. It’s absolutely possible to get a Portuguese marriage license, but keep in mind that it’ll add a few extra steps to your planning process! You can read up a bit more on marriage in Portugal on the US Embassy website, here.

Your other (and typically, easier) option is to have a symbolic ceremony in Portugal, and do all the legal stuff back home beforehand. Go to your local courthouse or county clerk’s office and get your marriage license in the language + location you’re familiar with, and then once you’re in Portugal, you can have a symbolic ceremony instead of a legal one! This could involve a meaningful unity ceremony, a vow exchange, any cultural/religious traditions that are meaningful to you; really, anything you want. You’ll just have the legal business out of the way and won’t have to worry about it anymore!

Portugal Elopement & Wedding Photographer

As a Europe elopement photographer, working with couples to create the adventure of a lifetime is my pride & joy. There’s nothing I adore more than helping you find the perfect place to say your vows, or guiding you through the planning process so that you can feel the pressure lift off your shoulders. If you’re looking for a Portugal elopement or wedding photographer, I’ll be not only your photographer, but so much more: your cheerleader, your storyteller, and your artist. I cannot wait to document your day—feel free to take a look at my Portugal Elopement & Wedding Packages, and then get in touch with me when you’re ready to begin this beautiful journey together!