Madeira Elopement Guide [2026 Update]
How to elope in Madeira in 2026-2027
Known as “The Hawaii of Europe”, Madeira is one of the greatest destinations for an intimate yet adventurous Elopement Wedding in Europe.
And from stunning mountain peaks to dramatic cliff-side views across the Atlantic Ocean and scenic black sand beaches – this incredible little island literally has it all. Learn everything you need to know in this Madeira Elopement Guide to make your vision of eloping here become reality.
Your Madeira Elopement Photographer & Planner
I’m Nico, a multi-award-winning photographer who plans and captures intentional, introvert-friendly elopements for couples who feel most alive outdoors.
For years now, Madeira has been at the heart of my work and across countless trips I’ve explored every corner of this stunning little island.
What I do for you:
With local, expert knowledge I’ll not only photograph, but also co-plan your entire elopement experience with you.
Want to get inspired first?
Take a look at a Pico do Arieiro Elopement above the clouds or a Fanal Forest Wedding in Madeira.
Why should you elope in Madeira?
Where to even begin? To me, there’s simply no other place in Europe that packs a punch like Madeira. It’s such an extraordinary little paradise that simply leaves you speechless.
Additionally, thanks to its size and versatility, you can easily go from moody black sand beaches to dramatic cliffs to misty forests to windy mountaintops in a single day. Without being in any kind of hurry. Crazy, isn’t it?
Madeira also comes with a moderate climate year-round, allowing you to easily choose an off-season date without many sacrifices.
How to get legally married in Madeira
First of all, yes, you can legally marry in Madeira, even as foreigners. However, there are a few important requirements you need to meet.
First of all, all your documents will need to be translated to Portuguese, certified with an apostille stamp and handed to the registry office in Madeira at least 30 days prior to your ceremony. To have some margin for error, it’s best to do this at least 2-3 months before you’re planning to get married in Madeira, though.
If a civil ceremony in Madeira is what you’re going for, take a look at the required documents below and I’ll gladly connect you with a local celebrant / officiant to help you with this.
However, the easier way might be to take care of the legal part in your home country and instead plan a symbolic ceremony in Madeira, with or without an officiant. More on this below.
Which documents do you need for a (legal) wedding in Madeira?
Valid Passport or ID
A identification document which includes a photograph of you.
Divorce Decree / Death Certificate
If one you has been married before and got divorced or widowed, the appropriate certificate is required as proof.
Certificate of no Impediment
A certificate that states you’re legally allowed to marry. You will get this from your local registry office in your home country.
Birth certificate
Both you and your parter need to provide a valid birth certificate.
Marriage Registration Application
In addition to your other documents, this application needs to be submitted to the Registry Office in Madeira, called Conservatória do Registo Civil.
Translation
And like mentioned before, it’s important that all your documents are translated to Portuguese and authenticated with an Apostille Stamp.
Civil ceremony vs symbolic ceremony
Whether a civil ceremony or a symbolic one is the right choice for your elopement in Madeira, comes down to personal choice.
When to choose a civil ceremony:
To legally marry in Madeira, a civil ceremony performed by an authorized officiant is the only option. It adds a few more things to your to-do list beforehand, but is absolutely possible.
I’ve listed all the required documents and legal procedures above, so feel free to take a look.
When a symbolic ceremony is right:
Mostly, couples choose not to deal with the legal part of getting married in a foreign country when they’re eloping and take care of this at home instead, which is much, much easier.
They all opt for a symbolic ceremony – with or without an officiant.
This personal and intimate way to get married is the perfect opportunity for you to share heartfelt vows, exchange your rings and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime moment without any pressure. And especially without any paperwork.
Choosing a symbolic ceremony doesn’t make your elopement any less meaningful or significant! In fact, to me (and to every couple I’ve ever photographed) it rather feels like the opposite. Getting married is not about signing a legal document. Instead, it’s about vowing to dedicate your entire life to one another.
Is Madeira safe for LGBTQ+ couples?
Thankfully, same-sex marriage has been legal in all of Portugal for over 15 years now. Which is amazing, of course, but sometimes only goes so far.
However, Portugal is also easily one of the most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries in general, with locals being welcoming to absolutely everyone. It has also put in place constitutional protection against any kind of discrimination based on sexual orientation that also extends to transgender and intersex people. In addition, there are also very strict laws against hate crimes to ensure a safe environment for all.
So yes, if you’re planning an LGBTQIA+ elopement in Madeira, you’ll be safe. 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
The best Elopement locations in Madeira
I’ll of course share my favorite spots and secrets with you, but here are a few great choices for both ceremony locations and photo locations in Madeira:
As one of the most mystical places you’ll ever see, Fanal Forest absolutely deserves its well known nickname “Fairy Forest”. Ancient trees, often enwrapped in a hazy mist, make this one-of-a-kind forest a must-visit for your trip to Madeira and also an amazing choice for a ceremony location and some couple portraits on your wedding day.
Take a look at a Fanal Forest Wedding Gallery.
Pro tip: The best chance to get the fog and mist is early in the morning and even higher if it rained the night before.
Privacy: High. The forest gets quite busy during daytime, but it’s a very spacious area where you can easily find some space for yourselves. It’s especially quiet in the morning.
For watching both a breathtaking sunrise and sunset above the clouds, there’s no better place than the summit of Pico do Arieiro. It’s easily accessible by car (no hiking required!) and offers some of the most dramatic panoramic views.
Want to see more? Check out this Pico do Arieiro Elopement above the clouds.
Pro tip: At both sunrise and sunset, the main parking lot at the summit will fill up fast. Make sure to come early.
Privacy: Low/Moderate. The main area isn’t really an option for photos all day, but it’s not too difficult to find a nearby place with the same views off the beaten path.
Along the coast on the northern side of the island lies this better known, yet spectacular view point. Steep cliffs rise straight out of the ocean and look especially stunning at sunrise.
Pro tip: Even if you can’t make it for sunrise, coming here early in the morning is definitely ideal to get the best backlight for photos.
Privacy: Moderate. It’s usually not a super busy place and only a quick stop for most travelers.
How about some landscapes that sometimes make you feel like you’re on another planet? Ponta do São Lourenço reaches out far into the ocean at the easternmost point of Madeira. I can highly recommend the amazing 3h ridgeline hike (“PR 8” to Miradouro Ponta do Furado).
Pro tip: I did the hike on a very hot day and therefore found it to be quite challenging. So make sure to bring enough water and go early in the morning if possible.
Privacy: Moderate. There will definitely be other people around at all times, but especially the area right around the parking lot (no hiking required) is spacious enough to not be bothered by it.
When you know where to go to loose the crowds, Pico Ruivo, Madeiras highest peak, is amazing for elopement photos – especially at sunrise. This can include an optional hike, but doesn’t have to.
Pro tip: If you have the time, definitely do the summit hike. However, there are a few tiny paths leading away from the parking lot that already take you to incredible views in mere minutes.
Privacy: High. The summit won’t give you any kind of solitude whatsoever, but I’ve never encountered any other people in the less popular places nearby (that come with the same views).
Are you dreaming of an Elopement adventure of your own?
Let’s make your dreams become reality:
How to get to Madeira for your Elopement Wedding
By plane
The easiest way to get to Madeira for your Elopement will be by plane. The local airport (FNC), named after world famous football player Cristiano Ronaldo, is pretty well connected and many European cities and airlines offer direct flights to get there.
For US couples: There are also direct flights to Madeira from New York and Boston, although currently not available throughout the entire year. However, you always have many option that include a quick layover in Lisbon or Porto for example.
By ferry
If you’re based in southern Europe and flying isn’t your thing, there’s also the option to reach Madeira by ferry from the Portuguese mainland. This will take longer of course and availability is more limited compared to flights, so make sure to plan ahead.
How to get around in Madeira
With limited public transportation, getting around Madeira without a car would be a huge challenge and one I can’t recommend.
Exploring the island is the most convenient and fun with your own car, so make sure to rent one in advance.
Most major rental companies operate directly at the airport, while smaller, more budget friendly ones will simply pick you up outside the terminal to get to their office.
Important tips:
The best time to elope in Madeira
With its mild and tropical climate, Madeira is an amazing destination throughout the entire year. However, it call still change a little depending on the season.
Madeira is famous for blooming florals and after a little more rainy winter season, the time between March to the end of May allows you to enjoy them the best.
With pleasant temperatures and fewer people around, this is a great time to come to Madeira.
Summer is the peak season in Madeira and therefore attracts the most tourist, but also sees the least amount of rain. With temperatures reaching the low 30s (86°F) in the south, it’s great for many outdoor activities.
Due to the sun rising early and setting late, you get to enjoy long days with tons of daylight, though the more popular places will be more crowded.
Especially from November onwards there’ll be significantly fewer crowds. While you’ll definitely need to bring a jacket for trips to the mountains, this time of the year still offers you enjoyable temperatures.
Winter is when some of Madeiras landscaped will look the most dramatic. It’s perfect for moody and cinematic photos and allows you to have the most secluded and private Elopement experience.
Either March to May or October to December are easily my favorite times to be in Madeira.
You get to avoid the busiest season, could have some places entirely to yourself and while the temperatures might be bit colder, you’ll still have a great experience.
Where to stay for your Madeira Elopement
Since most couples like to have their Getting Ready be part of their romantic Elopement photo story, choosing the right accommodation is key.
On top of being photogenic, though, it should also be a place that makes you feel comfortable. Here are a few recommendations to get you started.
My favorite hotels in Madeira:
Les Suites at The Cliff Bay
Porto Mare
Quinta Do Furao
Quinta das Vinhas
Castelo do Mar
My favorite AirBnbs / Villas in Madeira:
Casa Caboz
The Banana House
Seaview Pool Cottage
Quinta do Alto
Casa Estrelicia
How much does an Elopement in Madeira cost?
The cost of an Elopement in Madeira can vary significantly depending on your personal choices, like how luxurious your accommodation is or how many other vendors you hire in addition to your photographer. Another major part of your budget will be your own travel costs.
In general, most Elopements in Madeira fall within the range of 7.000–10.000 € (8.000–11.500 $), not including your own travel costs.
For more luxurious plans, multi-day itineraries or highly extended photo/video coverage, costs usually rise to around 16.000-20.000 € (18.500-23.000 $)
Most couples simply extend their trip and make their Elopement double as their honeymoon, saving them a substantial amount of money. This makes eloping in Madeira significantly more budget-friendly than a traditional wedding, which usually costs about 2-3x more.
Madeira Elopement Budget Breakdown
Flights & Travel (5 nights)
Total average:
≈ 2.000-2.800 € (2.300-3.200 $)
Attire
Total average:
≈ 1.200-1..600 € (1.400-1.800 $)
Photographer & Planner
Additional vendors + extras (optional)
How to plan a Madeira Elopement – Step by step
How to actually bring your vision to elope in Madeira to life in 10 easy steps
Step 01 – Create your vision
Think about what you want to do on your Elopement and the kind of places you’d love to see. Discuss your must-haves like traditions, activities and locations.
Step 05 – Decide on guests
Think about if bringing a few people along for your day (or the day after) is a good fit for your vision. There’re multiple ways to go about this and if you’re unsure, I’ll gladly talk about it with you.
Step 06 – Handle the Legalities
If you plan to legally marry in Madeira, gather all required documents and submit them to the local registry office in time – 2-3 months before your wedding date, just to be safe. Or simply opt for a symbolic ceremony instead.
Step 07 – Hire other vendors
Reach out and hire vendors like an officiant, florist or hair & make-up artist, if needed. I’ll gladly connect you with anyone you might need in Madeira.
Step 08 – Book your travel
Book your flights, accommodation and rental car and use platforms like Google Flights or Booking to find the best options. Try to arrive in Madeira at least 1-2 days before your Elopement to have some margin for error and enough time to settle in.
Also, don’t forget to check for Visa requirements.
Step 09 – Attire, Vows, Rings
Choose attire that you’re comfortable in and that allows you to move around freely all day. Even if we’re not going for a hike, the terrain will still often be rocky so bring hiking boots instead of high-heels. Also, a jacket will always come in handy – it can get pretty chilly in the mountains.
Elopements are the perfect place for heartfelt vows so maybe write or at least draft them beforehand.
This is also a great time now to buy your rings. Fully custom ones can sometimes take several weeks until you can pick them up, so keep that in mind.
Step 10 – Get excited
Now it’s time to lay back and get excited! You’ve decided to get married in the most amazing way possible, quickly put it all together in a few simple steps and can now look forward to an experience only few get to have in their life.
The best hikes (and other activities) for your honeymoon
Madeira is an outdoor paradise and the best way to get the absolute most out of it, is by going on one of the countless hikes around the island.
Before heading to a trailhead, make sure to check the conditions and whether or not the trail is actually open right here.
IMPORTANT: Since 2024, almost all of the main hiking trails around the island require a fee of 3 € per person. This money is used to ensure the safety of all visitors and preserve the trail itself as well as the nearby environment. Payment can be made online right here.
My favorite hikes in Madeira:
· PR 1 – Vereda do Areeiro
· PR 6 – Levada das 25 Fontes
· PR 8 – Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço
· PR 9 – Levada do Caldeirão Verde
· PR 13 – Vereda do Fanal
Other amazing activities in Madeira:
· Go Paragliding
· Visit the Botanical Garden
· Swim in the Porto Moniz Natural Pools
· Ride in Madeira’s Monte Sledges
· Ride the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car
· Go-Karting (my favorite!)
Award-Winning Images
that truly tell your story
Madeira Elopement Photographer Packages
I’ll co-plan your entire Elopement with you, support you every step of the way and of course capture every precious moment in stunning photos for you.
What’s always included:
Packages starting at
€ 5.800 / $ 7.000
Inquire now:
You don’t need to have it all figured out yet, don’t worry.
Just drop me a message and I’ll get back to you within 48h. I can’t wait to hear from you, learn about your plans and make them become reality for you.
