If you’re dreaming of a sun-soaked, romantic, and LGBT-friendly destination wedding, Portugal is calling your name! With its stunning coastlines, historic castles, and progressive laws, this country is a haven for same-sex couples looking to tie the knot in a truly magical setting.
But before you grab your wedding outfits and book that plane ticket, let’s dive into everything you need to know about getting married in Portugal as an LGBT couple—legalities, venues, and essential planning tips.
Is Same-Sex Marriage Legal in Portugal?
Yes! Portugal has been at the forefront of LGBT rights, legalizing same-sex marriage in 2010. This means that all couples—regardless of gender or nationality—can legally marry and enjoy the same rights as heterosexual couples. Even better? You don’t need to be a resident to get married in Portugal.
That said, there’s a bit of paperwork involved (because, well… it’s a wedding, and bureaucracy loves weddings). Here’s what you’ll need:
Documents Required for a Same-Sex Wedding in Portugal
✅ Passports of both partners
✅ Birth certificates (translated into Portuguese and certified)
✅ A certificate of no impediment (proof that you’re legally free to marry)
✅ A request for marriage form (signed at a Portuguese civil registry office)
It’s advisable to start the paperwork at least a few months in advance, especially if your documents need to be translated. If dealing with paperwork isn’t your thing (and let’s be honest, it rarely is), a wedding planner or local lawyer can help smooth out the process.
For official details, check out Portugal’s Civil Registry website
Best LGBT Wedding Venues in Portugal – Where to Say “I Do”
Now, the fun part—choosing the perfect venue! Portugal offers an incredible variety of wedding locations, whether you envision a beachfront ceremony, a historic castle affair, or a vineyard celebration.
1️⃣ Quinta – My Vintage Wedding in Sintra
💡 Best for: Romantic, fairytale vibes
If you love vintage aesthetics and lush gardens, Quinta – My Vintage Wedding in Sintra is a dream come true. This boutique venue offers LGBT-friendly packages in a breathtaking location.
📍 Visit the venue
2️⃣ Quinta da Pacheca – A Vineyard Wedding in Douro Valley
💡 Best for: Wine lovers & countryside charm
Imagine getting married in the middle of rolling vineyards, with the scent of fresh grapes in the air. At Quinta da Pacheca, you can even stay in a giant wine barrel suite. Yes, an actual wine barrel.
📍 Check it out
3️⃣ The Algarve – A Beach Wedding Paradise
💡 Best for: Golden beaches & ocean backdrops
If your dream wedding includes waves crashing in the background and your toes in the sand, The Algarve is perfect. There are many beachside venues, but Vilamoura, Lagos, and Albufeira are especially popular for LGBT weddings.
📍 Plan your Algarve wedding
4️⃣ Botanical Garden in Lisbon
💡 Best for: Nature lovers & intimate settings
A wedding surrounded by tropical plants and exotic flowers? Yes, please! The Botanical Garden in Lisbon offers a unique, peaceful setting right in the heart of the city.
📍 Explore the venue
5️⃣ Monserrate Palace – A Fairytale Castle in Sintra
💡 Best for: Royal, luxurious weddings
Want to feel like royalty on your wedding day? Monserrate Palace in Sintra is a 19th-century palace straight out of a fantasy novel. The Arabian-style architecture and stunning gardens make it a jaw-dropping venue.
📍 Discover Monserrate Palace
LGBTQ+ Wedding Planning Tips for a Stress-Free Experience
Planning a wedding abroad is exciting, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. Here’s how to make it smooth and stress-free:
✅ Choose an LGBT-Friendly Wedding Planner
Many wedding planners in Portugal specialize in LGBTQ+ ceremonies and will help with everything from legal paperwork to décor. A good planner can also recommend vendors who are 100% inclusive.
✅ Think About the Best Time to Get Married in Portugal
Portugal is beautiful year-round, but the best months for an outdoor wedding are May – October. July and August can be hot (and touristy), so spring or early autumn might be the perfect balance.
✅ Book a Photographer Who Knows How to Capture Your Love Story
Your wedding photos are the only tangible memories you’ll have after the big day. Make sure to hire a destination wedding photographer who understands the magic of same-sex weddings and knows how to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera. (Spoiler alert: That’s me! 😉)
📷 Check out my work: Your Happy Moments Blog
💰 Explore photo packages: Investment Page
📩 Let’s chat about your wedding: Contact Me
FAQ: Your Questions About LGBT Weddings in Portugal, Answered
💡 Do we need to be residents to get married in Portugal?
No! Portugal allows foreign couples to marry without residency requirements.
💡 Is Portugal safe for LGBT couples?
Absolutely! Portugal is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world. Cities like Lisbon and Porto have vibrant LGBT communities, and same-sex couples are widely accepted.
💡 Can we have a religious LGBT wedding in Portugal?
While civil weddings are fully legal, religious ceremonies depend on the church. Some progressive churches do offer blessings for same-sex couples.
💡 How much does a wedding in Portugal cost?
It depends! Small, intimate weddings can start from €5,000, while grand celebrations can go up to €50,000+. Portugal is more affordable than many Western European countries, making it a great option for destination weddings.
Final Thoughts: Why Portugal is the Perfect LGBT Wedding Destination
Portugal isn’t just a place to get married—it’s a destination that embraces love in all its forms. With its stunning landscapes, LGBT-friendly atmosphere, and rich culture, it’s no surprise that more and more same-sex couples are choosing to say “I do” here.
If you’re planning your dream wedding in Portugal, let’s make sure you have the most beautiful photos to remember it by. Check out my blog for inspiration, explore my photography packages, or contact me to chat about your vision! Let’s capture your love in Portugal! 💕
