It's one of the first things couples ask me. And my answer is always the same: it depends on the wedding you want.
Portugal has sun for most of the year. But a June wedding in the Algarve and an October wedding in the Douro Valley feel like two different countries. Here is what each season is really like, from someone who photographs weddings here every year.
Spring: March to May
Spring is green, fresh and full of flowers. The days are mild, usually between 18 and 24 degrees. Gardens in Sintra and the countryside look their best.
The only thing to know is that it can rain, especially in March and April. If you choose spring, ask your venue about an indoor plan. A little rain also makes the most beautiful soft light, so don't be afraid of it.
Good for: garden weddings, smaller budgets, couples who don't love the heat.
Summer: June to August
This is the most popular time, and for good reason. Long days, warm nights, dinner outside under the stars. The sun sets late, around 9pm in June and July, so you have hours of good light.
But summer has two sides. Inland, in the Alentejo or the Douro, it can be over 35 degrees. Your guests will want shade and water. Popular venues also book up fast, often more than a year before.
Good for: beach and coast weddings, long dinners outside, big parties that go late.
Early autumn: September and October
If you ask me, this is the sweet spot. The sea is still warm, the light turns golden, and the summer crowds have gone home. In the Douro, it's harvest time, and the vineyards turn red and gold.
September is now as popular as June, so book early. October is a little cooler and a little calmer. The sun sets earlier, around 7pm, so your timeline needs a bit more planning.
Good for: vineyard weddings, golden light, couples who want warm days without the heat.
Winter: November to February
Winter in Portugal is mild compared to most of Europe. Lisbon and the Algarve often have sunny days around 15 degrees. It's quiet, prices are often lower, and you can have the place almost to yourselves.
It's perfect for a small wedding or an elopement. Think candles, a long table, a fireplace and your closest people. Just plan your photos for the middle of the day, because it gets dark around 5:30pm.
Good for: elopements, small dinners, couples who want calm and privacy.
What this means for your photos
Whatever month you choose, the best light comes in the last hour before the sun goes down. I plan every wedding day around it. Here is roughly when the sun sets in Lisbon:
May: around 8:30pm
June and July: around 9:00pm
August: around 8:30pm
September: around 7:45pm
October: around 7:00pm (6:15pm after the clocks change)
December: around 5:20pm
If you tell me your date and your venue, I'll tell you the best time for your ceremony and your couple photos.
Quick answers
What is the most popular month? June and September.
When is it cheapest? November to March, when many venues lower their prices.
Does it rain in summer? Very rarely. July and August are almost always dry.
How early should we book? For June to September, 12 to 18 months before is normal.
Still choosing your date? Send me a message and I'll help you think it through.
