Choosing the Best Time To Get Married In Portugal


Choosing the right time for your wedding in Portugal is important because it helps create the perfect atmosphere and capture beautiful moments. It’s all about what makes you happy.

The best time to get married in Portugal depends on your personal preferences, desired atmosphere, and the kind of wedding you dream about. If you like flowers and mild weather, go for spring. If you want warm and sunny, pick summer. Fall is elegant with vineyards, and winter is cosy with holiday charm. Without delay, let’s explore the different seasons, and remember, whatever you choose, Portugal will be a lovely place for your special day.

Moinho da Praia, Venue | Samouco, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Spring (March to May)

  • What’s nice: There are flowers everywhere and the weather is gentle. Great for outdoor weddings in gardens or fields.
  • Things to know: Might rain a bit, but the colours make everything look pretty.
Quinta das Riscas, Venue | Montijo, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Summer (June to August)

  • What’s nice: Warm and sunny days, perfect for beach weddings or outdoor parties. More daylight for fun!
  • Things to know: Many people visit, so it gets busy and quite warm.
Meco Beach Photoshoot | Sesimbra, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Autumn (September to November)

  • What’s nice: Beautiful vineyards with red and gold colours. Good for outdoor celebrations with comfy weather.
  • Things to know: Gets a bit cooler at night, but the fall colours are gorgeous.
Quinta do Careto, Venue | Beja, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Winter (December to February)

  • What’s nice: Cosy and charming, especially with holiday decorations. Great for smaller gatherings.
  • Things to know: Colder, might rain, but winter makes it feel magical.

Now that we have checked out every season and understood how they can impact your wedding, let’s go through each month. Whether you prefer the blossoming spring, sunny summer, elegant autumn, or cosy winter, Portugal is ready for you to choose the perfect month to say “I do”. It’s your story, and you get to pick when it begins!

Quinta Nossa Senhora Auxiliadora, Venue | São Domingos de Rana, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Choosing the best month to get married in Portugal

January – Cosy Winter Celebrations

While it’s winter, Portugal’s climate is generally mild compared to many European countries. Here are a few things to consider:

  • January can be cool, especially in the evenings. Look at the weather in the exact place you are having your wedding to plan accordingly. Consider having indoor options or giving guests shawls, heaters or blankets to stay comfortable.
  • It might be extra green because of winter rains, making it a lovely place for pictures.
  • During quieter times, some places might cost less. This could help you save money.
  • Not many people choose January for weddings, so you can probably get the place and vendors you want more easily.
  • In January, the days are shorter. So, when planning your ceremony and photoshoot, keep this in mind. Take advantage of the daylight, and think about adding cosy lights for the evening.
Igreja da Nossa Senhora da Nazaré, Church | Nazaré, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

February – Love and Carnivals

Even though it’s winter, Portugal usually has mild weather, not too cold. Here are a few things to consider:

  • February is cool, but not freezing. Check the weather closer to your wedding day, just to be sure.
  • Find a place that has both indoor and outdoor options. This way, you can have your ceremony outside if it’s nice, but also have a cosy indoor spot just in case.
  • Wear your beautiful wedding outfit, and maybe add a wrap or shawl for the bride and a stylish jacket for the groom to stay warm. Also, think about having blankets or heaters to keep your guests comfy.
  • When decorating, think of warm colours, candles, and everything that makes it feel cosy and romantic.
  • Some flowers bloom in February. Consider using those for your bouquet and decorations.
  • Your wedding could have a soft and romantic feel that looks great in photos with winter light.
Quinta da Boubã, Venue | Nazaré, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

March – Spring Blooms

March is the start of spring, and Portugal is usually nice around this time. The weather is mild and the landscapes are full of blooming flowers. Consider the following:

  • March is not too hot or cold, but there might be some rain, so it’s smart to have a backup plan if you are planning an outdoor ceremony.
  • Spring means everything is turning green and flowers are blooming. Your wedding photos could look beautiful with all the vibrant colours.
  • Portugal has many beautiful places like gardens or vineyards that are perfect for a March wedding. Look for venues with both indoor and outdoor options so you can be flexible with the weather.
  • Choose clothes that match the mild weather. A light jacket or shawl might be useful, especially in the evening.
Quinta A Lendária, Venue | Barreiro, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

April – Blossoms and Beginnings

It’s when spring begins, bringing gentle weather and pretty landscapes. You can expect:

  • Flowers are blooming everywhere, making everything look beautiful.
  • The temperature is just right for outdoor events, especially in vineyards, gardens, or by the sea.
  • April is not as busy as the summer months. This means more options and maybe even lower costs for venues and services.
  • There might be a bit of rain now and then, so it’s a good idea to have a backup plan for outdoor activities.
Quinta A Lendária, Venue | Barreiro, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

May – Mild Days and Flowers

May gives you nice weather, pretty landscapes, and a touch of local charm. What you can expect:

  • The temperature is just right for a comfortable wedding.
  • Everything is colourful. Flowers are blooming, and nature looks beautiful.
  • May is not the busiest time for tourists, so it’s easier for your guests to find places to stay and you can enjoy a more relaxed celebration. But it’s good to plan early because popular places get booked quickly.
  • You can wear light and comfy wedding clothes because it’s not too hot. Brides can pick light dresses, and grooms can go for lighter suits.
  • In May, the days are longer, so you can get more natural light for your wedding, and the sunsets are amazing for a romantic atmosphere.
Quinta das Riscas, Venue | Montijo, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

June – Summertime Splendour

June is the start of summer with warm and sunny days. You can have lovely landscapes, a taste of local culture, and a bunch of venue options under the open sky. Consider the following:

  • It’s perfect for an outdoor wedding with temperatures around 18 to 28 degrees Celsius (64 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Since it’s warm, go for lighter and comfy wedding clothes. Brides can choose sleeveless dresses, while grooms can opt for lighter suits.
  • Everything looks bright and colourful. Flowers are blooming, and whether you pick a beach or countryside spot, it’s going to be pretty.
  • Beach weddings in the Algarve and Cascais or rustic vineyards in places like Douro Valley and Sintra are top choices.
  • Also, June is a month filled with local events and festivals, giving your celebration an extra touch of Portuguese culture.
  • Think about adding local seafood, grilled meats, and tasty desserts to your wedding menu because June is a great time for fresh Portuguese food.
  • The days are longer, which means you can enjoy a beautiful sunset during your ceremony or reception.
Quinta Cascata dos Sonhos, Venue | Almargem do Bispo, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

July – Coastal Charms

July keeps the summer feeling with sunny days and warm nights. Great for weddings by the sea with the sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean. What you can expect:

  • During the day, it can be comfortable or even hot, which is great if you want to have your wedding outdoors. In the evenings, it’s usually not cold, making it nice for outdoor celebrations.
  • You can choose beautiful venues, such as beaches, gardens, or vineyards.
  • It’s best to wear light and comfy clothes. Brides can go for a soft and airy dress, while grooms might like lighter suits or cool linen outfits.
  • In July, lots of colourful flowers are in full bloom, like lavender or sunflowers, so think about using them to decorate your wedding.
  • Portugal’s food is amazing, especially seafood, so try adding to your wedding menu local flavours like grilled sardines, bacalhau (salted codfish), or sweet treats like pastéis de nata (custard tarts) for dessert.
  • July days are longer, so plan a late afternoon or early evening ceremony. Imagine saying your vows as the sun sets.
Photoshoot, Cascais | Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

August – Sunshine All Day Long

August continues the summer happiness with long, sunny days. Just plan ahead, considering the weather. You can expect:

  • August is warm, and it hardly rains. You can expect sunshine, which is great for an outdoor wedding. But keep in mind it can get quite hot, so think about shade or something to keep cool.
  • You can choose different places to get married, such as vineyards, castles, or even by the beach.
  • Because it’s warm, you might want to wear light and comfy clothes. Don’t forget sun protection!
  • You have lots of colourful flowers to choose for your bouquet and decorations, like sunflowers, roses, and daisies.
  • Make sure your guests are comfortable, especially if you are outside. Offer cool drinks, fans, or a shaded area so everyone can enjoy the day.
  • With longer days, you can have a beautiful sunset ceremony.
Meco Beach Photoshoot | Sesimbra, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

September – Elegant Autumn

September has a mix of summer warmth and the start of autumn. It’s a lovely time for a wedding, with good weather and a romantic feel. Here is what you can expect:

  • Portugal has nice weather, and you can still enjoy sunny days and mild evenings.
  • Nature still looks beautiful with vibrant greens and lovely flowers.
  • There aren’t as many tourists this month, making it a more relaxed time for you and your guests.
  • You can choose from various venues, such as beaches, vineyards, and historic places.
  • Your wedding menu can feature fresh, seasonal foods.
  • In September, you get nice, long days with magical sunsets.
  • It’s warm during the day, but the evenings might be a bit cool. A light jacket could be handy.
Quinta de São Miguel, Venue | Palmela, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

October – Harvest Colours

October continues the autumn beauty with harvest colours. The weather is nice and there’s a special charm in the air. Here is what to expect:

  • October in Portugal is not too hot or too cold. The evenings might be a bit cooler, so having a light jacket could be a good idea.
  • There’s not much rain, so you can expect a mix of sunny and cool days.
  • You can have your ceremony outside, which is still nice in October.
  • There are lots of different venues to choose from, like historic castles, vineyards or beaches.
  • Amazing background for your wedding photos, as the trees start changing colours, mixing greens with warm shades.
  • Even though some spring flowers may not be around, you can still use beautiful flowers like dahlias, chrysanthemums, or seasonal leaves for your flower decorations.
  • As October goes on, the sunsets happen a bit earlier, making a romantic vibe for your evening celebration.
Quinta da Suratesta, Venue | Beja, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

November – Cosy Celebrations

A wedding in November can be special and charming, mixing the autumn beauty with the country’s culture and warmth. Consider the following:

  • The weather is getting cooler, but still nice for outdoor celebrations.
  • There might be some rain, so it’s a good idea to have a backup plan for an indoor ceremony or reception.
  • Some trees still have leaves in shades of red, orange, and yellow, making everything look beautiful for your wedding photos.
  • You can choose from many different venues like castles or vineyards.
  • If it’s a bit chilly, the bride can wear a stylish jacket, while the groom has a nice suit.
  • November is perfect for tasty food like chestnuts, pumpkins, and local wines. Your wedding menu can have these delicious flavours.
  • The days are a bit shorter, so you can have a romantic ceremony with the sunset.
  • Since it’s not the busiest time for tourists, you and your guests can find comfy places to stay without any trouble.
Quinta da Tareca, Venue | Sintra, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

December – Winter Whimsy

December ends the year with winter magic. Portugal, all decorated for the holidays, becomes a special place for winter weddings. Here is a simple breakdown:

  • December in Portugal isn’t too cold. In places like Lisbon and Porto, it’s around 8 to 15 degrees Celsius (46 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit). There might be some rain, especially in the north.
  • Cities and towns are decorated with Christmas lights, making it charming. The countryside is green and pretty.
  • There are beautiful places for weddings, like castles and vineyards. Many have cosy indoor spaces with fireplaces, for example, Sintra and Douro.
  • You can be flexible with your wedding clothes. A long-sleeved or a stylish suit works well. Don’t forget a shawl or jacket for outdoor times.
  • Use the festive season to make your wedding pretty. Winter flowers, evergreens, and candles create a cosy feeling.
  • Portuguese food is yummy, so try seasonal dishes like soups and seafood, as well as the famous wines!
Quinta da Tareca, Venue | Sintra, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Considerations for choosing your perfect month

Picking the right month for your wedding is important. Here are some simple things to think about:

  • Portugal has different weather throughout the year. Spring and early autumn are mild, summer can be hot, while winter is cooler.
  • Getting married in popular months might cost more. Think about your budget and if you can save money by choosing a less busy time.
  • Some months are busier for weddings. If you have a favourite place, check if it’s available in your chosen month.
  • Every month has a different vibe. Spring is blooming, and winter feels cosy and festive. Think about what style you want.
  • Check if your guests can travel easily. Avoid holidays or tough travel times. Give them enough notice.
  • If you plan a honeymoon right after, think about the travel season for your destination.
  • Check if your important vendors (like photographers or caterers) are available. Book them in advance.
  • Look at local events or holidays. They might affect hotels, transport, and the overall feel of your wedding.
Quinta da Suratesta, Venue | Beja, Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Take your time thinking about these things with your partner to choose the best time for your dream wedding in Portugal.

If you enjoyed the content and would like to see more of my work, don’t forget to explore my portfolio. I would love to hear your thoughts and feedback. Click here to dive into my portfolio now. Your support means the world to me!

Pedro Cruz

Wedding photographer and videographer from Lisbon, Portugal. Here is Pedro Cruz's short bio.

Recent Posts