Photographers for your intimate destination wedding or elopement
TOP VENUES
FOR YOUR DREAM WEDDING IN CASCAIS
For the Nostalgic, Storyteller, FADO and Cinema Lovers
ICONIC AND CHARMING VENUES
IN THE HEART OF PORTUGAL
Your Ultimate Guide to Legally Marrying in CASCAIS: ROMANCE AND LOVE STORIES WITH A TOUCH OF FADO
BY ERIC RENE PENOY
Why CASCAIS is the MOST CHARMING Destination for Your Dream Wedding or Elopement!
we are passionate about capturing the unique love stories of couples through breathtaking, cinematic photography. Based in the heart of Porto, Portugal, we specialize in both weddings and elopements, offering a tailored experience that blends artistry with authenticity. Whether you're exchanging vows against the stunning backdrop of the Douro River, in a charming city alley, or along the dramatic cliffs of the coastline, we’re here to document every beautiful moment with timeless imagery. Our approach is not just about photos—it’s about telling your story, filled with emotion, raw connection, and unforgettable memories. Let us help you create a visual legacy that celebrates your love in the most magical way possible.
Let‘s have a Simple but Deep Connection
CASCAIS Wedding and Elopement Photography Service. FOR ADVENTUROUS COUPLES IN SEARCH OF THE MOST WONDERFUL CEREMONY.
TOP VENUES FOR YOUR DREAM DESTINATION WEDDINGS
CASCAIS Wedding and Elopement Photographer: Capturing Timeless Love Stories
Cascais, a stunning coastal town near Lisbon, is the perfect destination for couples looking for a breathtaking and intimate wedding or elopement. With its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming streets, Cascais provides an idyllic blend of natural beauty, rich history, and luxurious venues. Whether you dream of exchanging vows by the ocean, in a grand palace, or surrounded by lush gardens, Cascais offers the ultimate romantic setting.
Thanks to its easy access from Lisbon Airport, beautiful year-round weather, and a variety of venue options, Cascais has become one of Portugal’s most sought-after wedding destinations. The town combines Portuguese heritage with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, offering not only gorgeous landscapes but also world-class cuisine, vibrant culture, and plenty of activities for couples and guests alike.
In this article, we explore the best wedding and elopement locations in Cascais, highlighting their unique charm and suitability for different styles of ceremonies. Whether you're planning a grand celebration or a private elopement, these venues promise an unforgettable wedding experience.
Let’s dive into the most stunning places to say "I do" in Cascais!
WHY CASCAIS?
Why CASCAIS is Perfect for Weddings and Elopements
Breathtaking Coastal Views
– Stunning cliffs, golden beaches, and the Atlantic Ocean create a perfect backdrop.
Rich Cultural Heritage
– The town is filled with historic palaces, castles, and charming streets.
Easy Accessibility
– Just 30 minutes from Lisbon Airport, making it convenient for guests.
Perfect Weather
– A mild Mediterranean climate ensures beautiful days year-round.
VERY EASY ACCESS WORLDWIDE
Iconic Locations for YOUR PortUGUESE Wedding Photography
Diverse Venue Options
– From elegant hotels to dramatic cliffs, there’s a perfect venue for every couple.
Private and Intimate Settings
– Cascais offers exclusive venues for a truly personal wedding experience.
Delicious Cuisine
– Indulge in fresh seafood, Portuguese wines, and gourmet delicacies.
Romantic and Adventurous Atmosphere
– Ideal for couples who love both elegance and adventure.
STILL NOT
CONVINCED?
What are the most beautiful/magical locations to get married in CASCAIS?
GET access to OUR CURRATED COLLECTION OF wedding venues in CASCAIS to get inspired.
ELEVATE YOUR WEDDING EXPERIENCE IN PORTUGAL
Dream Weddings Start in CASCAIS
Cascais is a diverse and captivating wedding destination, offering something for every couple, whether you desire a luxurious palace, a charming seaside villa, or a wild coastal backdrop. Its easy accessibility from Lisbon, stunning landscapes, and warm Mediterranean climate make it an ideal location for a wedding or elopement. Now, let’s explore why Cascais is the ultimate place for intimate and adventurous weddings, perfect for couples seeking romance, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
CASCAIS
Palácio de Monserrate – A Fairytale Wedding Venue
Nestled within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Palácio de Monserrate is a stunning palace with exotic gardens, Moorish architecture, and breathtaking views. This historic estate is perfect for couples who want a grand yet intimate setting, surrounded by lush greenery and romantic ambiance.
Description: Ideal for couples seeking a luxurious and picturesque wedding venue that feels straight out of a fairytale.
2. Casa de Santa Maria – A Historic Oceanfront Gem
This charming 19th-century villa sits right by the Atlantic Ocean, offering a unique combination of history and seaside beauty. The terracotta roofs, stunning tiles, and ocean views make it a magical setting for an intimate wedding or elopement.
Description: A perfect blend of history, romance, and ocean views for an elegant wedding experience.
3. Farol Hotel – A Luxury Wedding by the Sea
For couples who want a modern yet sophisticated venue, Farol Hotel is an excellent choice. With its prime location on the coastline, this boutique hotel offers sleek architecture, incredible sea views, and top-tier hospitality, ensuring an unforgettable wedding experience.
Description: A contemporary and stylish venue for a luxury beachfront wedding with breathtaking ocean views.
4. Guincho Beach – A Dreamy Beach Wedding Spot
Imagine saying your vows with the sound of waves crashing behind you. Guincho Beach, one of Cascais’ most stunning natural locations, provides a dramatic and untamed setting for couples looking for a relaxed yet unforgettable seaside ceremony.
Description: A stunning location for couples dreaming of a barefoot beach wedding with golden sand and ocean waves.
5. Forte da Cruz – A Castle-Like Fortress by the Beach
Overlooking the Atlantic, Forte da Cruz is a historic fortress turned elegant venue, offering a mix of medieval charm and oceanfront beauty. It’s perfect for a sophisticated wedding with a touch of adventure and history.
Description: A grand yet intimate setting for couples who want a castle wedding by the sea.
6. Parque Marechal Carmona – A Nature Lover’s Paradise
For couples who love nature, this picturesque park in the heart of Cascais offers lush gardens, romantic lakes, and serene walking paths. It’s a fantastic choice for an outdoor wedding surrounded by greenery and tranquility.
Description: A charming venue perfect for an outdoor wedding in a peaceful, green setting.
7. The Oitavos – A Chic and Exclusive Wedding Destination
The Oitavos is a luxurious five-star hotel set amidst sand dunes and pine forests, offering modern architecture and breathtaking coastal views. This venue is ideal for couples who want an elegant, upscale wedding experience.
Description: A stylish and contemporary venue for couples seeking a high-end, intimate wedding experience.
8. Boca do Inferno – A Dramatic Cliffside Elopement Spot
For adventurous couples, Boca do Inferno offers a stunning natural backdrop with dramatic cliffs and the roaring Atlantic waves. It’s the perfect place for an intimate elopement with unforgettable scenery.
Description: A breathtaking, adventurous location for couples seeking a dramatic and unforgettable elopement.
HOW TO GET MARRIED IN CASCAIS
LEGALLY MARRIED IN CASCAIS
To legally marry in Portugal as a U.S. or British citizen, you must follow these key steps:
Choose Your Ceremony Type – Portugal allows both civil and religious weddings. Civil weddings are legally binding, while religious ceremonies require civil registration.
Gather Required Documents – You will need:
Valid passports
Birth certificates (certified and translated into Portuguese)
A Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) confirming you are free to marry, obtained from your local registry office in the U.K. or U.S. embassy
If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the previous spouse
Submit Documents – All documents must be apostilled and translated by a certified translator before submission to a Portuguese Civil Registry Office at least 30 days before the wedding.
Plan the Ceremony – Civil weddings take place at the registry office or an approved venue. Religious ceremonies must be pre-approved.
Obtain a Marriage Certificate – After the ceremony, you’ll receive an official marriage certificate, which can be legalized for international use.
It is advisable to consult a local wedding planner or embassy to ensure compliance with updated regulations.
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Portugal is one of the countries where you do not need to be an actual resident to be married by the Portuguese national authorities. In the next article, we will present to you how magical can be your perfect wedding destination, also depending on the area you have chosen, you will see a lot of different possibilities. We will also cover how to legally prepare your document if you wish to be married in Portugal even if you are from abroad. If you plan your Wedding or Elopement in Portugal you should know the market is about 20 to 30% lowest than most countries in Europe and would cost between €7500 up to €30.000 in 2023/2024. Depending obviously on the number of guests, the location. You can rather rent a Palacio (castle), a fully inclusive hotel, or a private house. The providers are amazing and the products and music scene are even better.
From the Knot Articles in 2019: “Weddings in Portugal also come at a hefty price tag of $16,700 with an average of 126 guests.” but the pricing now is rising as Portugal is becoming very popular.
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Portugal is one of the best, rather romantic, or adventurous elopement destinations in modern times in Europe. Portugal offers a variety of landscapes, temperatures, and cultures and provides the best mix between beautiful weather, amazing food, wine, and traditions. We will find a lot of different opportunities for your Wedding or Elopement. If you like an outdoor location by the mountain, by the beach, in a colorful city, or beautiful architectural location full of history. There are a lot of palaces, and castles, you can easily get married to a Portuguese administration and plan a nice dinner at a beautiful typical or modern restaurant enjoying typical Fado while drinking Porto wine and eating sea food.
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The cost of hiring a wedding photographer in Portugal varies based on experience, package inclusions, and coverage duration. Generally, prices range from €1,200 for emerging photographers to €3,000 or more for full-day coverage by seasoned professionals. This typically includes ceremony and reception coverage, formal portraits, and a selection of edited digital images.
As of December 1, 2024, there are 421 wedding photographers in Portugal, reflecting a 4.2% increase from the previous year. Notably, 95.49% of these are single-owner operations, while the remaining 4.51% are part of larger brands. The majority are concentrated in Lisbon District (117), Porto District (98), and Braga District (38).
It's important to note that a significant portion of wedding photographers in Portugal are amateurs who supplement their income from other professions. Estimates suggest that over 80% fall into this category.
When selecting a wedding photographer, consider factors such as experience, style, package details, and whether they operate full-time or part-time. This ensures you choose a professional who aligns with your vision and expectations for your special day.
When considering wedding photography in Portugal's autonomous regions of Madeira and the Azores, it's essential to understand the local market dynamics.
Madeira:
Number of Photographers: In Funchal, Madeira's capital, there are approximately 31 professional wedding photographers available.
Pricing: The cost for wedding photography services in Madeira typically starts from €1,000.
Azores:
Number of Photographers: The Azores have a smaller pool of wedding photographers compared to mainland Portugal and Madeira. While exact numbers are not specified, several professionals specialize in capturing weddings across the archipelago.
Pricing: For a wedding in the Azores, it's advisable to budget at least €10,000–€15,000 to cover essential expenses, including venue, catering, and photography. This estimate is general, and actual photography costs may vary based on specific requirements.
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ALL THAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HOW TO GET CIVIL MARRIED IN PORTUGAL. HOW DO GET MARRIED IN BEAUTIFUL PORTUGAL
Mentioning the Government of Portugal: “The marriage process is initiated when the engaged couple goes to a civil registry office and declares their will to get married. They may also do it online.
In the marriage process, the engaged couple may also be represented by their representatives with special powers. The process is concluded with the registry office’s order which authorizes or refutes the marriage.”
The marriage process may be initiated by:
the individuals who intend to get married or by their representatives with special powers
by the priest or religious minister of a church or religious community established in Portugal, through a request.
Who can get married?
Any individual over 16 years old.
However, if any of the engaged parties are not yet 18 years old, the parent’s or guardian’s authorization is necessary. This authorization may be waivered by the civil registry office, through a specific process.
To get married, no marriage impediments may be observed
During the marriage process, the registry office verifies if there are no impediments to the marriage of those two individuals. If there are no impediments, the registry office authorizes the marriage.
WHERE CAN YOU INITIATE THE MARRIAGE PROCESS?
Online, at the Civil Online website.
In-person, at any civil registry office.
At certain offices, you may schedule the service.
WHAT ARE THE DOCUMENTS AND REQUIREMENTS TO INITIATE THE MARRIAGE PROCESS?
You must submit the following documents of the engaged couple:
Citizen Card or identity document.
A prenuptial agreement certificate, if it has been prepared at a notary office.
WHAT IS THE PRICE TO INITIATE THE MARRIAGE PROCESS?
The cost of the marriage process and registry is 120€This amount includes the process before the marriage and the registry carried out after the marriage.
Non-urgent marriage on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, outside the registry office or at the registry office but outside of the operating hoursThe cost of the marriage process and registry will be 200€ if you opt to get married:
on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday
on a business day, outside the registry office or at the registry office but outside the operating hours.
BEST TIMES OF YEAR TO GET MARRIED OR ELOPE IN CASCAIS
The best season to get married in Cascais, Portugal, depends on your ideal wedding atmosphere, weather preferences, and overall experience. However, spring (March to June) and autumn (September to October) are the most recommended seasons.
Spring (March – June): A Romantic and Refreshing Time
Spring in Cascais brings mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it perfect for outdoor weddings. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, and the flowers are in full bloom, creating a stunning backdrop for ceremonies. This season also offers fewer tourists, meaning more privacy and better availability of venues.
Autumn (September – October): A Cozy and Golden Setting
Autumn is another fantastic time to get married in Cascais. With pleasant temperatures between 18°C and 28°C (64°F to 82°F) and breathtaking golden hues, it’s ideal for couples who want a warm but not overly hot wedding day. The ocean is still warm enough for beachside receptions, and the sunsets are truly magical, adding a romantic touch to your wedding photography.
Avoiding the Extremes: Summer and Winter
While summer (July and August) is beautiful, it can be quite hot, with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F), and it’s also peak tourist season, making venues busier and accommodations pricier. Winter (November to February), on the other hand, is cooler and wetter, making outdoor weddings less ideal.
For the perfect balance of ideal weather, stunning scenery, and venue availability, April to June and September to October are the best months to get married in Cascais.
CONCLUSION
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
CASCAIS Wedding Photographer.
Portugal's Best Kept Secrets: The Most Beautiful and Unique Wedding Locations You Need to Know"
Why choose Portugal as your wedding destination?
ELOPEMENTS AND INTIMATE WEDDINGS IN PORTUGAL.
The most beautiful, romantic, wild, or trendy venues to get married in Portugal.
Portugal already became one of the best places to visit back in 2017, so why not choose the country to get married to and gather your family and friends in a trendy and beautiful location? Here you can find some of the best villas, castles, hotels, and churches in this little and amazing European country.ent.
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Portugal,[e] officially the Portuguese Republic,[f] is a country in the Iberian Peninsula in Southwestern Europe. Featuring the westernmost point in continental Europe, Portugal borders Spain to its north and east, with which it shares the longest uninterrupted border in the European Union; to the south and the west is the North Atlantic Ocean; and to the west and southwest lie the Macaronesian archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira, which are two autonomous regions of Portugal. Lisbon is the capital and largest city, followed by Porto, which is the only other metropolitan area.
The western part of the Iberian Peninsula has been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times, with the earliest signs of settlement dating to 5500 BC.[14] Celtic and Iberian peoples arrived in the first millennium BC. The region came under Roman control in the second century BC, followed by a succession of Germanic peoples and the Alans from the fifth to eighth centuries AD. Muslims conquered Portugal's current mainland in the eighth century, but were gradually expelled by the Christian Reconquista. Modern Portugal began taking shape during this period, initially as a county of the Christian Kingdom of León in 868, officially declared a sovereign Kingdom with the Treaty of Zamora in 1143.[15]
During the Age of Discovery, the Kingdom of Portugal settled Madeira and the Azores, and established itself as a major economic and political power, largely through its maritime empire, which extended mostly along the South Atlantic and Indian Ocean coasts.[16] Portuguese explorers and merchants were instrumental in establishing trading posts and colonies that enabled control over spices and slave trades.[17] While Portugal expanded its influence globally, its political and military power faced internal and external challenges towards the end of the 16th century. The dynastic crisis marked the beginning of the country's political decline that led to the Iberian Union (1580-1640), a period in which Portugal was united under Spanish rule.[18] While maintaining a degree of self-governance, the union strained Portugal’s autonomy and drew it into conflicts with European powers which targeted Portuguese territories and trade routes.[19] Portugal's prior opulence was further diminished by a series of events, such as the Portuguese Restoration War and the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, which destroyed the city and damaged the empire's economy.[20]
The Napoleonic Wars motivated the Portuguese royal family to relocate to Brazil in 1807. This event reshaped the relationship between Portugal and Brazil, culminating in Brazilian independence in 1822,[21] which indirectly led to a civil war between liberals and absolutists from 1828 to 1834.[22] The monarchy was overthrown in the 5 October 1910 revolution, which led to the establishment of the Portuguese First Republic. A phase of unrest ultimately led to the rise of authoritarian regimes of the Ditadura Nacional and the Estado Novo.[23] Democracy was finally restored following the Carnation Revolution of 1974, and brought an end to the Portuguese Colonial War, allowing the last of Portugal’s African territories to achieve independence.[24]
Portugal's imperial history has left a cultural legacy, with around 300 million Portuguese speakers around the world. Today, it is a developed country with an advanced economy relying chiefly upon services, industry, and tourism. Portugal, a member of the United Nations, the European Union, the Schengen Area, and the Council of Europe, was one of the founding members of NATO, the eurozone, the OECD, and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.
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Cascais is a town and municipality in the Lisbon District of Portugal, located on the Portuguese Riviera. The municipality has a total of 214,158 inhabitants[1] in an area of 97.40 km2. Cascais is an important tourist destination. Its marina hosts events such as the America's Cup and the town of Estoril, part of the Cascais municipality, hosts conferences such as the Horasis Global Meeting.
Cascais's history as a popular seaside resort originated in the 1870s, when King Luís I of Portugal and the Portuguese royal family made the seaside town their residence every September, thus also attracting members of the Portuguese nobility, who established a summer community there. Cascais is known for the many members of royalty who have lived there, including King Edward VIII of the United Kingdom, when he was the Duke of Windsor, King Juan Carlos I of Spain, and King Umberto II of Italy. Exiled Cuban president Fulgencio Batista was also once a resident of the municipality. The Casino Estoril inspired Ian Fleming's first James Bond novel, Casino Royale.
The municipality is one of the wealthiest in both Portugal and the Iberian Peninsula. It has one of the most expensive real estate markets and one of the highest costs of living in the country, and is consistently ranked highly for its quality of life.
Cascais is one of Portugal’s most beautiful and diverse wedding destinations, offering a unique combination of stunning scenery, historic charm, and luxurious venues. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration in a palace, an intimate beach elopement, or a dramatic cliffside ceremony, Cascais provides the perfect setting. With its mild climate, easy accessibility, and variety of venue options, couples can enjoy a stress-free and unforgettable wedding experience.
Beyond the venue, your wedding is about storytelling—and that’s where we come in. As professional wedding photographers, we are passionate about capturing the emotions, landscapes, and unforgettable moments of your wedding day. We specialize in 2-3 day wedding adventures, allowing us to document not only the ceremony but also the incredible journey leading up to it. Imagine a sunset pre-wedding session by the cliffs, a romantic dinner at a historic palace, and a beachside ceremony captured in golden light—every moment beautifully preserved.
Every couple’s love story is unique, and we believe your wedding photography should be too. We go beyond traditional wedding shoots to create a narrative-driven collection of stunning images, ensuring that every detail and emotion is captured authentically.
Let us be part of your adventure and capture your dream wedding in Cascais—because your love story deserves to be told in the most breathtaking way possible.
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FULL LIST OF WEDDING VENUES IN PORTUGAL
Adega Regional de Colares - Agroturismo Atzaro - Alenquer - Algarve - Areias do Seixo - Aviero - Braga - Casa de Castelo - Casa de Laila - Casa de Reguengos - Cascais - Castelo de Portuzelo - Douro Valley - Estufa Fria - Estufa Real - Faro - Forte da Cruz - Fronteira Palace - Gradil - Guimaraes - Herdade do Amarelo - Hotel Palacio de Villapanes - Hotel Santa Maria de Bouro - Lamego - Leiria - Madeira - Monchique - Monserrate Palace - Noto - Paco de Vitorino - Palacio da Pena - Palacio de Estoi - Palacio Fronteira - Parque Pedras Salgadas - Penafiel - Penha Longa - Pin Cliffs Luxury - Porto - Portofino - Pousada de Palmela - Pousada de Amares - Queluz - Quinta Casa Grande - Quinta da Caloura - Quinta das Lagrimas - Quinta de Penalva - Quinta de sant’ana - Quinta Segade - Quinta do Hespanhol - Quinta do Lago - Rio do Prado - Senhora da Rocha - Sesimbra - Sintra - Solar de Levada - Son Berga - Sublime Comporta - The Wine House - The Yeatman - Vidago Palace - Vila Monte - Villa Bardini - Wine Cellar - 100 Maneiras -The western part of the Iberian Peninsula has been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times, with the earliest signs of settlement dating to 5500 BC.[14]Celtic and Iberian peoples arrived in the first millennium BC. The region came under Roman control in the second century BC, followed by a succession of Germanic peoples and the Alans from the fifth to eighth centuries AD. Muslims conquered Portugal's current mainland in the eighth century, but were gradually expelled by the Christian Reconquista. Modern Portugal began taking shape during this period, initially as a county of the Christian Kingdom of León in 868, officially declared a sovereign Kingdom with the Treaty of Zamora in 1143.[15]
During the Age of Discovery, the Kingdom of Portugal settled Madeira and the Azores, and established itself as a major economic and political power, largely through its maritime empire, which extended mostly along the South Atlantic and Indian Ocean coasts.[16] Portuguese explorers and merchants were instrumental in establishing trading posts and colonies that enabled control over spices and slave trades.[17] While Portugal expanded its influence globally, its political and military power faced internal and external challenges towards the end of the 16th century. The dynastic crisis marked the beginning of the country's political decline that led to the Iberian Union (1580-1640), a period in which Portugal was united under Spanish rule.[18] While maintaining a degree of self-governance, the union strained Portugal’s autonomy and drew it into conflicts with European powers which targeted Portuguese territories and trade routes.[19] Portugal's prior opulence was further diminished by a series of events, such as the Portuguese Restoration War and the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, which destroyed the city and damaged the empire's economy.[20]
The Napoleonic Wars motivated the Portuguese royal family to relocate to Brazil in 1807. This event reshaped the relationship between Portugal and Brazil, culminating in Brazilian independence in 1822,[21] which indirectly led to a civil war between liberals and absolutists from 1828 to 1834.[22] The monarchy was overthrown in the 5 October 1910 revolution, which led to the establishment of the Portuguese First Republic. A phase of unrest ultimately led to the rise of authoritarian regimes of the Ditadura Nacional and the Estado Novo.[23] Democracy was finally restored following the Carnation Revolution of 1974, and brought an end to the Portuguese Colonial War, allowing the last of Portugal’s African territories to achieve independence.[24]
Portugal's imperial history has left a cultural legacy, with around 300 million Portuguese speakers around the world. Today, it is a developed country with an advanced economy relying chiefly upon services, industry, and tourism. Portugal, a member of the United Nations, the European Union, the Schengen Area, and the Council of Europe, was one of the founding members of NATO, the eurozone, the OECD, and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.
