Did you know that you can say your vows on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic ocean for less than the price of a london wedding dress? That’s the beauty of eloping in portugal’s Algarve – it combines world-class views with surprisingly flexible budgets.
Some couples spend just €2,000 on a simple ceremony with flowers and photography, while others turn it into a €12,000 luxury escape with villas, private chefs, and boat rides along the benagil caves.
In this guide, i’ll show you exactly how much it costs to elope in Portugal, break down the key expenses, share sample budgets, and give you insider tips on saving money – without losing a drop of magic.
💡 if you’re comparing options, also check our guide to the cost of a wedding in portugal. spoiler: elopements usually cost a fraction.
Average cost to elope in Portugal
The average couple spends between €4,000 and €8,000 on their aAlgarve elopement. But the wide range comes down to three factors:
- style – minimalist cliff elopement vs. luxury resort package.
- guest count – just the two of you or a handful of close family.
- vendors – whether you book à la carte or choose a planner’s package.
for context, a traditional wedding in Portugal can easily hit €20,000–€30,000. So eloping is not only more intimate, it’s also budget-friendly. Check 12 reasons to elope.
Main cost categories
1. Legal paperwork & officiant (€200–€600)
Foreign couples can marry legally in Portugal, but paperwork varies depending on your nationality. expect €200–€600 for fees, translations, and officiant.
👉 for full details, check our guide on getting married in portugal.
2. Venue or location permit (€0–€3,000)
- free: public beaches or cliff paths (though permits may apply in some cases).
- paid: quintas, luxury hotels, or private villas. these range from €1,500–€3,000 per day.
- insider tip: many couples choose the algarve cliffs at sunrise or sunset – breathtaking and low-cost.
3. Photographer & videographer (€1,500–€5,000)
Your elopement will last just one day, but the photos last a lifetime. Quality photographers in algarve start around €1,500 for a few hours and go up to €5,000 for full-day coverage with albums and films.
💡 check our list of the best algarve wedding photographers if you want to see top local talent.
4. Planner or coordinator (€1,000–€3,000)
A local elopement planner handles permits, timelines, and vendor bookings. Packages usually include styling and sometimes photography.
read our curated list of top wedding planners in algarve if you want stress-free planning – complete with links to trusted professionals.
5. Flowers & styling (€200–€800)
Bouquet, boutonniere, maybe a floral arch. simple styles start at €200, more elaborate set-ups can go higher.
6. Hair & makeup (€150–€400)
Local artists can come to your villa or hotel. trial + wedding day package is common.
7. Travel & accommodation (varies)
- flights: from London ~€100 pp return; from New York ~€600–€800 pp.
- stays: airbnb for €80/night, luxury resorts €400+/night.
8. Extras & experiences (€300–€1,500)
Think boat ride along benagil caves, sunset picnic, or private chef dinner. these make your day unforgettable.
Sample elopement budgets
| style | cost breakdown | total |
|---|---|---|
| minimalist cliff elopement | paperwork €300 + photographer €1,800 + flowers €200 + hair/makeup €200 | ~€2,500 |
| mid-range intimate day | planner €1,500 + venue €1,500 + photographer €2,500 + flowers €400 + hair/makeup €300 + travel €1,000 | ~€7,200 |
| luxury algarve escape | luxury villa €3,000 + planner €3,000 + photo/video €5,000 + floral arch €800 + extras (boat & private chef) €1,500 | €12,000+ |
How to save money when eloping in algarve
- choose off-season – april–may or september–october. Lower rates + milder weather.
- weekday elopements – vendors charge less compared to weekends.
- book local vendors – no travel fees.
- consider package deals – planners often bundle photo, flowers, and ceremony styling at a discount.
Why algarve is worth every cent
- iconic cliffs & beaches – unlike anywhere else in Europe.
- golden light – photographers love algarve sunsets.
- easy access – faro airport is well-connected to UK and EU.
- mix of luxury & intimacy – perfect balance between a getaway and a destination celebration.
and remember: while Italy or Greece are popular, Algarve offers the same wow factor at often more affordable rates.
FAQ: Eloping in portugal
How much does it cost to elope in algarve?
On average €4,000–€8,000, depending on vendors and style. minimalist elopements can be done for €2,500.
Is it cheaper to elope in Portugal than in Italy or Spain?
Yes, generally portugal is 15–25% cheaper for equivalent services.
Do we need a wedding planner for elopement in portugal?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended for paperwork and coordination.
Conclusion
Elope in algarve can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want. whether you dream of saying your vows on a wild cliff at sunrise or celebrating with a private villa dinner, portugal offers incredible value.
If you’re planning your elopement and looking for authentic, emotional photography, we’d love to hear your story.👉 explore more at Ever After Frames and @Ever.After.Frames Instagram profile.
