Ah, the Algarve—a sun-drenched paradise where golden cliffs meet turquoise waters, and where the wine flows as smoothly as the vows you’ll exchange. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s both a magical escape and an unforgettable celebration, Portugal’s Algarve region might just be the perfect place.
But let’s get real—how much does an Algarve wedding actually cost? What’s included in those dreamy wedding packages? And how do you avoid unexpected surprises (like a seagull stealing your wedding cake)? Grab a glass of vinho verde, and let’s dive in.
Why Get Married in Algarve?
Picture this: a warm ocean breeze, a sunset ceremony on a clifftop, and a reception where your guests toast with locally-made port wine. Sounds like a dream, right? But Algarve isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also practical.
✔ 300+ days of sunshine a year = Less chance of rain ruining your day.
✔ Affordable compared to Italy or France = More budget for honeymoon cocktails.
✔ Stunning variety of venues = From luxurious beach resorts to rustic vineyards.
Algarve Wedding Packages: What’s Included?
Most Algarve wedding packages are designed to make planning a breeze. Here’s what’s typically included:
🏰 Venue Rental
From beachfront resorts to charming historical estates, the venue sets the vibe for your big day. Popular spots include:
🍷 Catering & Drinks
Portuguese cuisine is a showstopper. Expect fresh seafood, piri-piri chicken, and the famous pastel de nata for dessert. Most packages include:
✔ Multi-course meal
✔ Open bar (hello, sangria!)
✔ Wedding cake
📸 Photography & Videography
Your wedding deserves more than blurry phone pics. Packages usually include professional photography with dreamy golden-hour portraits. (And if you want truly stunning photos, let’s chat—check out my portfolio here. 😉)
🎶 Music & Entertainment
Live Fado performance? DJ spinning your favorite songs? Some packages include both. Just remember to confirm sound restrictions if you’re getting married outdoors.
💐 Flowers & Decor
From bouquets to table arrangements, many packages include local floral designs featuring Portuguese roses and wild eucalyptus.
💍 On-the-Day Coordination
The last thing you want on your wedding day? Stress. A wedding planner is often included to handle everything from guest logistics to unexpected hiccups (like a best man who “accidentally” disappears before the speeches).
Algarve Wedding Cost Breakdown: What to Expect
So, how much does all of this cost? Prices vary depending on the venue, number of guests, and level of luxury, but here’s a rough guide:
💑 Intimate Wedding (10-20 guests)
💰 Starting from €5,000 – €10,000
✔ Small beach ceremony + restaurant reception
✔ Basic photography package
✔ Modest floral arrangements
🎉 Medium Wedding (20-50 guests)
💰 Expect to spend €10,000 – €20,000
✔ Private villa or boutique hotel venue
✔ Full catering with a sit-down dinner
✔ Live music & entertainment
💎 Luxury Wedding (50+ guests)
💰 From €20,000 – €50,000+
✔ High-end beachfront resort or vineyard estate
✔ Gourmet menu & premium drinks
✔ Fireworks, string quartets, and maybe even a boat entrance (because why not?)
Want an exact quote? Contact venues directly or work with a local wedding planner.
Best Wedding Venues in Algarve
Still searching for “the one” (venue, not partner—hopefully you’ve got that sorted)? Here are some of the Algarve’s top wedding spots:
🏖️ Vilamoura – Perfect for a stylish marina wedding. Think yachts, cocktails, and a VIP vibe.
🌿 Quinta do Lago – A luxury golf resort surrounded by nature. Ideal for an elegant yet relaxed celebration.
🏰 Monte Rei Golf & Country Club – Exclusive, elegant, and a favorite among couples looking for a sophisticated experience. (Check them out at www.monte-rei.com.)
Avoiding Wedding Planning Pitfalls
Even paradise has its quirks. Here are a few things to watch out for:
⚠ Weather surprises – Summer is warm but can get windy. Spring and early autumn offer perfect conditions.
⚠ Legal paperwork – If you’re a non-resident, you’ll need a marriage license, which can take at least 30 days to process.
⚠ Hidden costs – Some packages don’t include VAT, extra transport fees, or late-night bar charges. Always double-check!
Wedding Planning Checklist (So You Don’t Forget Anything)
✅ Choose your dream venue
✅ Set your budget
✅ Book a wedding planner (if needed)
✅ Secure your date & sign contracts
✅ Sort out legal documents
✅ Plan travel & accommodation for guests
✅ Choose a photographer (hello! 👋 Check out my packages)
✅ Enjoy a pastel de nata—because planning is stressful!
Final Thoughts
Planning a wedding in Algarve isn’t just about logistics—it’s about creating a day that feels like pure magic. Whether you want an intimate beach ceremony or a grand villa celebration, Portugal offers an unforgettable backdrop for your love story.
And when it comes to capturing those priceless moments? That’s where I come in. As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in storytelling through breathtaking imagery.
👉 Explore my portfolio here
👉 See my photography packages here
👉 Let’s chat about your dream wedding here
Your love story deserves the perfect setting—and the perfect photos to remember it by. Ready to make it happen? Let’s create magic in Algarve. ✨
