Important tips for planning an Elopement in Portugal. Best locations and times, travel tips, what to do after the wedding, etc.
Are you dreaming of having an Elopement in Portugal? Portugal is an amazing country, and its nature is truly breathtaking! It’s a country rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed if you choose Portugal for your Elopement, and here are some reasons why:
- A small country with the infrastructure and logistics to host a wedding in the style you identify with, in palaces, castles, luxury hotels, vineyards, and many others;
- The possibility of having a wedding ceremony in incredible landscapes;
- You can officially register your marriage;
- Portugal is a country with many foreign immigrants working in the wedding industry.
Difference Between Traditional Wedding and Elopement
An Elopement is an intimate experience to share with your significant other. This practice is a popular alternative to the idea of a traditional wedding. It allows the couple to enjoy an environment of love, unity, and secrecy as the most fundamental elements of that special moment.
You don’t have to worry about large-scale planning, guest lists, and budgets. Instead, you can take advantage of a flexible format that offers the chance to invite fewer people or have none at all. The couple, along with a photographer, can choose the most picturesque and charming location that reflects their personal vision of the event.
An Elopement is also an opportunity to take a trip to marry and seamlessly transition into your honeymoon. The first day of your married life will be exciting and memorable with the variety of destinations and spontaneous decisions. The day guarantees a romantic atmosphere, an essential element of your story.
Best Time for Your Elopement in Portugal
This is undoubtedly one of the best factors because Portugal is perfect for an Elopement, thanks to its mild climate and various Elopement style options. Portugal is a wonderful destination to get married all year round. Each of the seasons is exceptionally beautiful and offers unique features that may appeal to your personal vision.
Since the most popular time among tourists, summer is a perfect season for those who want to enjoy beautiful flowers and long daylight hours, helping the couple implement all their ideas and providing picturesque photographic opportunities. Fall and spring can satisfy the couple with good weather, accessibility to most places, and fewer tourists. You also still have the chance to experience long daylight hours. Winter will also be a perfect option if you’re looking for a frozen landscape, like in Serra da Estrela, or indoor spaces such as wine cellars and palaces.
Some Locations for Your Elopement in Portugal
Cabo da Roca
For couples who are passionate about symbolic places, Cabo da Roca, besides its beautiful scenery, is the westernmost point of mainland Europe, located at the far end of the Sintra Mountain Range, as written by Luís Camões in Lusíadas “The point where land ends and the sea begins.”
Private Tour in the Douro Valley
Being the oldest demarcated wine region in the world, the Douro Valley was classified by UNESCO in 2001 as a World Heritage Site. Perfect for couples with refined tastes, wine lovers, and nature enthusiasts.
Sanctuary of Fátima
For Catholic couples who want to have an Elopement but still wish to marry religiously and receive God’s blessings, the Sanctuary of Fátima is an excellent option. The couple can even schedule the date by email without much bureaucracy.
Sintra
For romantic couples, Sintra is the ideal location with options ranging from breathtaking natural landscapes to castles and palaces.
Areias do Seixo
A breathtaking boutique hotel. It is close to the sea with an incredible view for photos. They also offer a completely secluded cabin from the hotel’s facilities, surrounded by greenery and charm.
Palácio de Monserrate
Straight out of a fairy tale, this palace is set within a 33-hectare park with gardens. The construction has a romantic style, along with a chapel in ruins that provides incredible photographic material.
Hot Air Balloon Wedding
Getting married in a hot air balloon is possible in Portugal at any time of year, depending on the weather conditions of the day. There’s the option to have an intimate symbolic ceremony, or include a few guests.
Travel Tips for Your Elopement in Portugal
- Plan and book everything in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit between May and September (high season). TAP often offers many flight promotions, saving you money.
- As tempting as it is to take an international trip and visit other countries, I recommend that when you come to Portugal, you don’t stay just a few days and don’t only visit Lisbon and Porto. Otherwise, you might regret it.
- Avoid dining at restaurants like KFC, McDonald’s, or others that can be found anywhere else. Portuguese cuisine is an experience you cannot miss during your trip.
What to Do in Portugal After the Wedding?
Rent a Car and Continue Your Honeymoon in the Country
Being a small country but with incredible places and experiences to discover, renting a car and reserving a few more days on your trip to explore Portugal is very economical. This will give you more freedom to choose where to stop and when. Driving will allow you to experience the adventure of an independent trip. No international driver’s license is required. All you need is to show your passport and driver’s license.
Escape to the Madeira and Azores Islands
Flights between the mainland and the islands are short and very affordable, especially if you book in advance. Including this route in your trip will make your wedding unforgettable.
Local Cuisine
With both Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, Portugal is renowned for its local cuisine, both traditional and modern. Choosing Portugal as your wedding destination will undoubtedly provide a unique sensory experience. More and more chefs are winning Michelin awards (equivalent to the Oscars of Gastronomy).
Are you planning an Elopement in Portugal? Contact us, it will be fun!