6 Great Reasons for Eloping in Portugal
Of all the countries in the world, why would you want to elope to Portugal? We're happy you asked because we have a whole list of reasons. If you’re in search of a unique destination wedding, Portugal definitely won’t disappoint. However, we won't be held responsible if your next click is on Skyscanner.
1. Find unique locations that haven't been seen 10,000 times on Instagram
Yes, the south of France is beautiful, and we also swoon for Lake Como, as well as the beaches of Ibiza. However, in all of these locations, it is nearly impossible to find a spot that hasn't already graced your Instagram feed. Portugal, foolishly overlooked as an elopement destination for years, offers pristine landscapes, beaches, vineyards, and mountains all to yourself. We promise your family and friends will be begging you to reveal your stunning elopement location.
2. The Portuguese really like foreigners and speak great English
Think of it as a legacy of the Discoveries, but the Portuguese really enjoy having foreigners visit their country. A latecomer to the Southern European tourism scene, the Portuguese still feel grateful to curious foreigners. They will be excited, and maybe even surprised, that you chose to elope to Portugal. But be warned, the Portuguese are very proud of their country. And they will do everything they can to make sure you love it. This can take many forms, including personally leading you to the spot where they proposed to their wife (true story!) telling you about the tiny beach that only locals know about, or recommending the very best fish restaurant in town. Not to mention that pretty much everyone is fluent in English!
3. Portugal packs a lot into a small space
You can drive the width of continental Portugal in less than 3 hours and the length in about 6 hours. But don't let that fool you. Every city, town, and village will give you a list of different reasons to choose it for your elopement in Portugal.
There is Nazaré, the quaint beach town that is home to the largest waves in Europe—talk about a ceremony backdrop! What about the picturesque medieval city of Óbidos? The city is also known for its cherry liquor (ginjinha) - sure to leave you ready for more than just an elopement. Or the border city of Fronteira, which hosts the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival—just picture yourself and your partner having your wedding ceremony while floating above the rolling hills.
Or if you want your elopement in Portugal to be closer to nature, there is the Parque Natural da Arrábida. With its dense forest and stunning lagoon, this is one of the only places in Europe where you can see dolphins! This could be the perfect spot to elope on a private boat or even on stand-up paddle boards. Maybe it’s a nighttime elopement that you're after. If so, head to the Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve, the first starlight tourism destination in the world!
4. You can feel good about your choice
We love that you are conscious of your carbon footprint! And already you're helping the environment by forgoing a big wedding. No paper invitations, no food waste, no flights, or car trips for all of your family and friends. But why stop there? You can go even further when you elope in Portugal.
In 2019, at Europe's top travel trade show, Portugal was named the Best European Destination for Sustainable Tourism. Why is that? Well in 2017 the Portuguese government embed sustainability into the national tourism policy. This included initiatives like Portugal Trails which added kilometers of walking and bike trails to the country. Furthermore, there is the Portugal Waves initiative, promoting sustainability in water sports. The government didn't stop there. Partnerships with companies like Google and Microsoft were cultivated to promote the development of new business ideas and the establishment of open innovation programs to promote sustainability.
This is in addition to a goal to produce all of the energy needed from renewable sources. As recently as April 2020, 72% of electricity was generated from renewable resources. That is in addition to Portugal being in fifth place in Europe for the percentage of electric cars sold. So you can see, it isn't just lip service. Portugal really is a great choice for minimizing the carbon footprint of your elopement.
5. You'll never have to ask what to do on your anniversary
Eloping to Portugal is the wedding gift that keeps on giving. You'll never run out of reasons to return to the site of your elopement year after year. Whether it is to visit old favorites or discover a hidden gem, your love, and relationship will forever be enriched with return visits to Portugal.
6. Elopement Packages in Portugal are Affordable and Unique
The cost of elopement packages in Europe can vary a lot depending on the place of your microwedding. If you’d like your elopement to stay budget-friendly, Portugal is a fantastic destination. Not only will your wedding ceremony be within budget, but so will your travel expenses, culinary, and cultural experiences. Another great thing about Portuguese elopements is that you won’t need to look through hundreds of wedding venues in Portugal, as you can get married in publicly accessible areas such as the cliffs of the Algarve, a Castle in Sintra, or on a less-known square in Lisbon with a backdrop of the Portuguese signature blue and white tiles.
Take a look at our elopement packages in Portugal to learn more. Then, get in touch. Our team of experienced wedding planners will gladly make your experience a one-of-a-kind celebration that will mark the beginning of a brand new chapter in your lives.
