Imagine saying “I do” on a cliffside terrace, with the Atlantic stretching endlessly before you, or exchanging vows in a lush botanical garden surrounded by century-old trees. Welcome to Funchal, Madeira—the perfect destination for a wedding that’s as breathtaking as your love story.
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate garden ceremony, a luxurious oceanfront wedding, or a historic fortress affair, Funchal has it all. So, grab a glass of Madeira wine, and let’s explore the most stunning wedding venues this paradise has to offer.
1. Belmond Reid’s Palace – A Timeless Classic
For: Luxury lovers, couples who adore classic elegance
💍 Why it’s perfect: Imagine a wedding at a legendary 5-star hotel where Winston Churchill once stayed. Perched on a cliff, with subtropical gardens and jaw-dropping ocean views, Belmond Reid’s Palace is the place for an elegant wedding in Funchal. Their gardens, with bougainvillea in full bloom, make for a fairytale ceremony setting.
🌿 Best spot for vows? A garden terrace overlooking the Atlantic.
🍾 Reception options? A Michelin-starred dinner at William Restaurant.
📍 Website
2. Restaurante do Forte – Get Married in a 17th-Century Fortress
For: Couples who love history and dramatic settings
💍 Why it’s perfect: This bright yellow fortress was once a defense against pirates—now, it’s one of the most unique wedding venues in Madeira. Imagine a candlelit dinner inside stone walls, with waves crashing in the background. Oh, and they even offer arrival in a classic car or a traditional Madeiran wicker sled (yes, really).
🛡️ Best spot for vows? The terrace with sea views.
🥂 Reception highlight? A seafood feast with live music.
📍 Website
3. Palheiro Gardens – A Botanical Paradise
For: Nature lovers, fairytale weddings
💍 Why it’s perfect: If you want your wedding to look like a scene from a fantasy novel, Palheiro Gardens is your dream venue. Exotic flowers, centuries-old camellias, and breathtaking ocean views make it an unforgettable setting.
🌳 Best spot for vows? The charming chapel hidden in the gardens.
🍃 Unique touch? Guests can stroll through the gardens with a glass of Madeira wine.
📍 Website
4. VidaMar Resort – Oceanfront Wedding Perfection
For: Couples who want a glamorous beach wedding
💍 Why it’s perfect: If you’ve always dreamed of a wedding with the ocean as your backdrop, VidaMar Resort is an absolute winner. Say your vows with the waves behind you and then dance the night away under the stars on their panoramic terrace.
🌊 Best spot for vows? A glass-fronted terrace right above the ocean.
💃 Reception fun? A poolside party with cocktails and live DJs.
📍 Website
5. Eira do Serrado – A Wedding Above the Clouds
For: Adventurous couples, mountain lovers
💍 Why it’s perfect: Looking for something truly unique? How about getting married at 1,095 meters above sea level with stunning views of the hidden Nun’s Valley? Eira do Serrado is a secluded, magical wedding venue with a view you’ll never forget.
⛰️ Best spot for vows? A scenic mountain terrace.
🔥 Unique touch? A post-wedding bonfire under the stars.
📍 Website
6. Quinta Jardins do Lago – Intimate Garden Wedding Bliss
For: Couples who love history, nature, and privacy
💍 Why it’s perfect: A historical 18th-century manor surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for small, romantic weddings. Imagine walking down a flower-lined aisle towards your partner, with the scent of blooming orchids in the air.
🌺 Best spot for vows? The lake-view garden.
🍽️ Reception highlight? A candlelit dinner in the grand salon.
📍 Website
7. Savoy Palace – Ultra-Luxurious Wedding Venue
For: Couples who want a grand, stylish wedding
💍 Why it’s perfect: If you’re dreaming of a lavish, modern wedding, Savoy Palace is Madeira’s most extravagant hotel. Think luxurious ballrooms, rooftop receptions, and infinity pools with ocean views.
🌟 Best spot for vows? A glass terrace overlooking the marina.
🎉 Reception fun? A sky-high cocktail party at the rooftop bar.
📍 Website
Bonus: Practical Wedding Tips for Getting Married in Funchal
💡 When’s the best time for a wedding in Madeira?
- April to October – Best weather, stunning sunsets.
- November to March – Fewer tourists, but unpredictable weather.
💡 Is it expensive?
- Luxury weddings: 💎💎💎💎💎
- Mid-range weddings: 💎💎💎💎
- Budget-friendly: 💎💎💎 (Yes, you CAN have an affordable wedding here!)
💡 How to make it legal?
- Civil ceremonies can be held anywhere with official approval.
- Religious weddings need paperwork in advance.
- Symbolic ceremonies? No restrictions!
💡 Top wedding planners in Madeira:
Check out Say Yes to Madeira for planning help!
Let’s Capture Your Love Story in Funchal!
Your wedding day should be nothing short of magical, and trust me—Madeira delivers. But beyond the breathtaking venues, it’s the moments that make your day unforgettable: the teary-eyed vows, the laughter during sunset photos, the dance floor madness.
As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing those once-in-a-lifetime emotions. Whether it’s a cliffside kiss or a quiet, stolen moment between you two, I’ll make sure your love story shines.
📸 Explore my wedding stories: Portfolio
💍 Check out my photography packages: Investment
💌 Let’s chat about your dream wedding: Contact me
✨ So, which venue stole your heart? Let’s turn your dream wedding into reality! 💕
