Thinking about saying “I do” in Portugal? You’re in good company. More and more couples from the US, UK, and across Europe are trading ballrooms for ocean cliffs, palaces that look pulled from a fairytale, candlelit courtyards, and sunsets so golden they feel custom-made for your photos. Portugal isn’t just a backdrop — it’s a mood, a story, and a once-in-a-lifetime vibe.
But the first question everyone asks is: How much does it really cost?
This guide gives you realistic 2025 price ranges, sample budgets for different guest counts, and region-by-region comparisons — so you can plan with confidence and avoid hidden surprises.
Quick Answer: Typical Price Ranges
Here’s what couples usually spend in Portugal, depending on guest count and location:
| Guest Count | Algarve (Beach & Cliffs) | Lisbon & Sintra (Palaces) | Douro & North (Wineries) | Madeira / Azores |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 30 (Elopement / Micro) | €7 000 – €15 000 | €9 000 – €18 000 | €6 000 – €12 000 | €8 000 – €16 000 |
| 50 Guests | €15 000 – €28 000 | €18 000 – €32 000 | €14 000 – €25 000 | €16 000 – €28 000 |
| 80 Guests | €25 000 – €45 000 | €28 000 – €50 000 | €22 000 – €38 000 | €24 000 – €40 000 |
| 120 Guests | €38 000 – €70 000+ | €45 000 – €85 000 | €35 000 – €60 000 | €40 000 – €65 000 |
👉 Peak season (May–October weekends) is usually 20–30% more expensive than shoulder season or weekdays.
What Drives the Cost?
Venue & Minimum Spend
- Luxury hotels / resorts: €6 000 – €15 000 hire fee, often with minimum F&B spend of €150–€250 per guest.
- Private quintas & wineries: €4 000 – €10 000.
- Beach / cliff ceremony permits: €300 – €1 500.
Food & Drinks
- Catering (per person): €120 – €220 (plated dinner, cocktail hour, dessert).
- Open bar: €35 – €80 per person (duration & brand tiers).
- Late-night snacks: €10 – €20 per guest.
Wedding Planner
- Full service: €4 000 – €8 000.
- Partial planning: €2 500 – €5 000.
- Month-of coordination: €1 500 – €3 000.
Photography & Video
- Photography (8–10h, 2 photographers): €2 000 – €4 500.
- Video (highlight + full edit): €2 000 – €5 000.
- Drone / extras: €300 – €800.
See the best Algarve photographers → Our packages →
Florals & Decor
- Ceremony arch: €600 – €1 500.
- Reception florals: €1 500 – €5 000+.
- Lighting / rentals: €1 000 – €3 500.
Music & Entertainment
- Ceremony musician: €300 – €600.
- DJ: €800 – €1 500.
- Live band: €2 000 – €6 000.
Hair, Make-Up & Attire
- Bride hair & make-up (trial + day-of): €350 – €600.
- Bridesmaids: €100 – €200 each.
- Groom suit hire: €250 – €500.
Transport & Accommodation
- Shuttle bus (50 guests): €600 – €1 200 (round trip).
- Accommodation block rates: €120 – €250 per room per night.
Legal vs Symbolic Ceremony
- Civil ceremony fees: €120 – €500.
- Translation / documentation: €200 – €800.
- Officiant (symbolic): €300 – €700.
Sample Budgets
Micro Wedding in Algarve (30 Guests) – €12 000 Approx.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue & catering | €6 000 |
| Planner (partial) | €2 500 |
| Photography | €2 000 |
| Florals & décor | €1 200 |
| Music | €600 |
| HMUA | €400 |
| Transport | €300 |
Classic Lisbon Wedding (80 Guests) – €32 000 Approx.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue & catering | €18 000 |
| Planner (full) | €5 000 |
| Photography & video | €5 000 |
| Florals & décor | €2 500 |
| Band & DJ | €3 000 |
| HMUA | €600 |
| Transport & misc. | €1 500 |
Elegant Algarve Coastal Wedding (120 Guests) – €60 000 Approx.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue & catering | €35 000 |
| Planner (full) | €6 000 |
| Photo & video | €7 500 |
| Florals & décor | €5 000 |
| Band + DJ + afterparty | €5 500 |
| HMUA | €1 000 |
| Transport / backup / extras | €3 000 |
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Permits for cliffs, heritage sites: €200 – €1 000.
- Generator / backup tent: €1 000 – €3 000.
- Vendor travel fees: €200 – €600.
- Corkage / cake cutting: €2 – €6 per guest.
- Overtime (venue, DJ, photographer): €200 – €400 per hour.
Smart Ways to Save
- Choose weekdays / shoulder months.
- All-in-one venue (ceremony + reception).
- Hybrid entertainment (musician + DJ).
- Simplify florals, invest in lighting.
- Trim guest list.
FAQs
What’s the average cost of a wedding in Portugal?
Most weddings cost €25 000 – €45 000 for 80–100 guests.
Is Portugal cheaper for wedding than Italy or Spain?
Yes, often 20–30% cheaper for similar quality venues.
How much do Algarve wedding venues cost?
€6 000 – €15 000 + catering minimums.
What’s a realistic per-guest wedding catering budget?
€150 – €250 including drinks.
How much does a planner cost in Portugal?
€2 500 – €8 000 depending on service level.
How much does photography & video cost in Portugal?
€2 000 – €5 000 each, depending on coverage.
How much does legal ceremony fees cost in Portugal?
€120 – €500 plus translations.
Best months for budget wedding in Portugal?
March–April, October–November.
Next Step
Ready to explore your Portugal wedding budget?
