How to plan a Magical Madeira Elopement in 2025-2026
How to Elope in Madeira in 2025-2026
Hello! We are Tony & Jane – a multi-award-winning wedding and elopement photographer duo ready to create your unforgettable Madeira elopement!
We’re a married couple ourselves, so we know exactly what you may need to elope in Madeira, including the best locations to elope, elopement packages, the best time to come, and many pro tips to make your experience unforgettable!
Just imagine you and your lover exploring the unique tropical nature of Madeira. Majestic, cloud-covered peaks surround you, offering dramatic views from the cliffs. Nearby, the Atlantic Ocean waves gently crash onto the volcanic beaches.
Does a more unique elopement experience even exist?!
Contact us, and we’ll help make your dreams come true!
Why You Should Elope in Madeira
In our (unbiased) opinion, Madeira Island is, without a doubt, one of the best places in the world to elope. From jet-black volcanic beaches, dozens of incredible waterfalls, and stunning ocean cliffs to epic mountain peaks with views so stunning they feel unreal – Madeira really has it all. Worried about the weather ruining your day? Not in Madeira. The unique mild and warm climate of the island makes it perfect for outdoor ceremonies all year round – even in winter!
Are you wild at heart and keen on an adventure on your elopement day? Hike, explore, and connect with nature at the levadas of Madeira island – unique hiking trails piercing the island, dating back to the 1500s. Some of the levadas can take you to a secret spot for those stunning elopement photos, ones you’ll never forget and no one else will believe.
The island of Madeira is blissfully quiet (especially in mid-season from October till May)—no crowds even at the busiest locations! Imagine it may be just you, your lover, and maybe a seagull applauding in the distance somewhere mind-blowingly beautiful! Add the amazing local food (bolo do caco, poncha, and of course, the famous wine of Madeira are musts!) and a bit of Madeira’s rich culture, and you’re getting a truly unforgettable experience!
Oh, and did we mention it is super budget-friendly? Paradise doesn’t have to cost a fortune – and you can check it yourselves by eloping in Madeira!
The Best Madeira Elopement Locations
from the most iconic spots to hidden gems
It’s not that easy to choose location for your elopement in Madeira! Sounds odd, right?!
It’s because you can not only easily be overwhelmed and get lost picking the right one for you! The number of jaw-dropping locations, their beauty, and variety can easily make you ask for help…
Luckily, you have us! After traveling to and photographed in Madeira so many times, traveling the island far and wide – we’ve seen it all and would be happy to share our entire experience with you. Besides these six stunning spots, we, of course, have a dozen more of them. Some of them are popular, while others – are completely hidden gems we’ve been exploring and collecting for the last 10 years. By choosing us, you not only get expertise and award-winning elopement photography but also won’t end up in the crowd at some tourist trap.
The bitter truth about Madeira is that it has become very popular in recent years, with some locations like Fanal Forest and Pico do Arieoro often popping up on Instagram as a location you must visit.
All in all, you have to be prepared to have an extra hike, or maybe even get up before sunrise to have a truly secluded and quiet elopement ceremony in Madeira (especially if you aim for some iconic spots). And we’ll be happy to be your right hand in crafting your special day!
Pico do Arieiro
Pico do Arieiro is your number 1 choice if you’d love to have a stunning backdrop above the clouds for your ceremony or/and your epic elopement photographs. The summit of Pico do Arieiro is only a 30-40 minute drive from Funchal, and on top of it, no hike is required!
Best for: Hiking (if you’d love to), Epic mountain views above the clouds.
Privacy/Seclusion: Low – the summit is heavily trafficked, especially in the daytime.
The best months to elope here: Spring or Fall.
*Pro Tip – The best way to avoid crowds at Pico Arieiro, especially during the high season, is by planning your elopement photos here at sunrise or sunset.
Ponta de São Lourenço
If you’d love to elope on another planet – Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira’s easternmost point, is your choice! The views here are totally outer-worthly: vivid red and orange colored rock formations, jagged cliffs with huge dropoffs, and of course, endless Atlantic ocean surrounding you 360 degrees.
Best for: Epic cliffside views, Bold colors, and landscapes.
Privacy/Seclusion: High – the 3-hour hike deters most casual visitors.
The best months to elope here: March to June & September to November.
*Pro Tip – The winds at Ponta de São Lourenço can be pretty fierce sometimes, so pick a layered wedding dress made of silk for even more drama and raw elopement photographs and videos.
Fanal Forest
The iconic Fanal Forest, is probably the most mysterious place you’ll ever visit, making it an absolute banger elopement location. The forest consists of ancient laurel trees growing here for at least 800 years. It grows at around 1150 meters above sea level, which is why it’s so often covered with mist and clouds coming from the ocean, creating a unique mystical atmosphere for the most cinematic look of your elopement photographs.
Best for: Mysterious atmosphere and cinematic portraits.
Privacy/Seclusion: High – especially early morning or during misty weather.
The best months to elope here: October to May (more frequent fog and mossy magic).
*Pro Tip – Watch the weather the night before your elopement day – the fog and mist after rain can almost guarantee this foggy atmosphere.
25 Fontes Waterfall
The 25 Fontes Waterfall, is located in Laurisilva forest very near the Fanal forest. The waterfall falls down rocky cliffs into a calm lagoon with ancient lush green trees growing all around. The hike to the waterfall takes about 2 hours, so this elopement location is definitely for avid hikers (because why now plan a hike as your elopement activity when eloping to Madeira?!).
Best for: Lush jungle-like backdrops, elopement photos by waterfalls, and adventure vibes.
Privacy/Seclusion: Moderate – it’s a very popular trail, but evenings are often quieter.
Best months to elope: April to June & September to November.
*Pro Tip – Arrive early and pack light – this 1.5–2 hour hike rewards you with a mystical, fern-filled setting perfect for vows.
Praia do Seixal
The beautiful ocean beach called Praia de Seixal is a quiet black sand beach that can be easily accessible by car, with nearby parking available. It’s an amazing natural spot for your ceremony also thanks to the incredible views of the green mossy mountain and several waterfalls falling down straight to the Atlantic.
Best for: Black sand beach and ocean views.
Privacy/Seclusion: Moderate – more relaxed than main tourist beaches.
Best months to elope: May to October (excluding summertime).
*Pro Tip – Avoid holidays and weekends for secureness and don’t miss nearby waterfalls!
Miradouro da Garganta Funda
It’s one of the most epic ocean cliffs in the western part of Madeira. The stunning viewpoint called Miradouro da Garganta Funda, can be reached by a light 15-minute hike (count for around 20 minutes at least, as you two will be in a wedding dress and suit, right?!). Be prepared for windy weather, plus the view from the best viewpoint is not for someone scared of heights! But in the end, you may be rewarded with the most fantastic sunset of your life – is there a better way to end your big day?!
Best for: Intimate cliffside ceremonies with waterfall views and epic sunsets.
Privacy/Seclusion: High – remote and secluded especially in the evening.
Best months to elope: April to October.
*Pro Tip – Pack good hiking boots for the extra gip. The trail can be muddy and slippery.
Hidden Gem Locations to Elope in Madeira
Madeira is world-known for its jaw-dropping landscapes, but such iconic locations like Fanal Forest and Pico do Arieiro can get crowded, especially during the high season. Don’t worry, though, you got us! We’ve explored many secret locations in Madeira Island and would be happy to share 3 of them with you (don’t worry, though, we got more!). Why would you want to run away from crowds for a truly intimate wedding day?!
Miradouro do Guindaste
It’s probably the most well-known of our hidden gem locations in Madeira (however, it’s not even close to iconic ones in terms of business), but it’s still such a quiet and secluded ocean cliff in the north of the island.
Best for: Dramatic coastal views and fantastic sunrises.
Best months to elope: April to June & September to November
*Pro Tip – Plan a sunrise vow ceremony, and you’ll be completely on your own with a 90% probability.
Ponta do Bode
If you’re not a hiking fan but still want to have otherworldly views of the cliffs and the endless ocean, Ponta do Bode is a fantastic spot to elope! You can get there literally by car with zero effort.
Best for: Secluded cliffside ceremonies with panoramic ocean views.
Best months to elope: April to November
*Pro Tip – Sturdy footwear for muddy terrain with a good grip is a must!
Achadas da Cruz
Feeling fancy for a cable car ride with scenic views? Achadas da Cruz and the cable car leading there should be your perfect choice! You can have a walk along the coastline and enjoy the fantastic views of the cliffs and the ocean while being almost on your own and have beautiful wedding portraits at sunset.
Best for: Dramatic cliffside views with access to a quiet coastline via cable car — a unique elopement adventure.
Best months to elope: April to November
*Pro Tip – The cable car to the promenade works only until 4:30 PM, so we recommend planning this elopement activity for the shoulder season.
Dreaming About the Adventure of a Lifetime?!
Let us Help you Elope to Madeira!
Can you legally Get Married in Madeira?
Yes, you can! Madeira Island is a Portuguese territory and, therefore, part of the European Union. However, most of our foreign couples choose to have a legal marriage in their home country before heading to Madeira for their symbolic vow ceremony and elopement adventures after. This creates a more authentic, genuine, and seamless experience.
How to Get Legally Married in Madeira
The cost of the marriage process and registry is 120€. Besides that, there are important legal requirements to get married in Madeira as a foreigner:
- Photocopies of Passports:
You’ll need copies of both your and your partner’s passports. The originals must be shown to the Registrar on your wedding day. - Birth Certificates:
Both partners must provide International Birth Certificates, issued within the last six months. These can be obtained from your local registry office. - Divorce or Death Certificates (if applicable): If either of you has been previously married, you’ll need to provide proof of divorce or a death certificate.
- Certificate of No Impediment: This document confirms that there are no legal obstacles to your marriage. It must be translated into Portuguese.
- Power of Attorney (Procuração): If necessary, you may need to grant someone legal authority to handle paperwork on your behalf.
- All documents must be certified with an Apostille Stamp to verify their authenticity.
- Documents must be translated into Portuguese, either in your home country or once you arrive in Madeira.
After your legal wedding ceremony, your marriage certificate (in electronic or paper form) will typically be issued within 2-3 business days. The price of a marriage certificate is 10€.
Symbolic Wedding Ceremonies in Madeira
All these legal steps and paperwork may sound too overwhelming and stressful for some couples, and we completely feel you! Instead, there’s still a possibility of having a symbolic vow ceremony to Madeira! Having a symbolic wedding ceremony means it’s not gonna feel less meaningful and intentional, than a legal one! More to add, it may be an even more secluded and emotional way to get married on the island of Madeira because you’re not gonna worry about paperwork, booking a celebrant, and all these vibe breakers.
Fun fact – more than 80% of our couples during the last 5 years decided to go this way and they shared that they never regretted that!
If you still end up planning a legal wedding ceremony, feel free to contact us for the best officiant’s contacts – they will lead you through the legal process with zero stress and officiate an elopement ceremony for you somewhere epic!
LGBTQ+ Weddings & Elopements in Madeira
Madeira is not only a breathtaking destination for elopements and intimate weddings – it’s also a safe and inclusive elopement destination for LGBTQ+ couples.
Same-sex marriage has been official and legal both in Madeira and Portugal ever since 2010, and Madeira.
We’ll be happy to recommend local vendors, celebrants, and venues open-minded and supportive. However, we can bet you’ll really enjoy your elopement experience in Madeira whatever wedding venue or vendor you’ll choose!
Travel and Logistics Tips for Your Elopement in Madeira
Planning your elopement in Madeira is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming – let’s make sure getting here (and getting around) is stress-free, too. Here are our essential travel 101 and logistics tips to help your elopement trip go smoothly from the moment you land to your “I do’s.”
Getting to Madeira For your Wedding Day
There are several ways to come to Madeira but from our experience, taking a flight is the best and most predictable way possible (especially in the monsoon season).
Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC) is well-connected to major European cities with frequent direct flights. And yes, the airport is named after the most famous human ever born in Madeira, a football player Cristiano Ronaldo.
Direct flights to Madeira are available from:
Lisbon (1h 45m)
Porto
Madrid
Paris
Frankfurt
London
Amsterdam
For the US couples:
Direct flights to Madeira from US soil are often available during the high season. We highly recommend planning a hopover in Porto or Lisbon for more predictability. As a bonus, you can visit the charming city of Porto and mainland Portugal in one trip!
*Pro Tip 1 – We recommend using flight comparison tools and setting up alerts to monitor price changes. Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Momondo allow you to set alerts for specific routes so you can book when prices drop.
*Pro Tip 2 – Arrive 2–3 days before your elopement day. This gives you time to settle in, overcome the jetlag (hello to our US and Asian couples!), adjust to Madeira’s pace, and handle any last-minute paperwork or scouting.
HOW DO YOU GET AROUND DURING YOUR Madeira ELOPEMENT?
Having your own wheels is highly recommended. You can only reach the unique Madeira’s beauties by car on its winding coastal roads and cliff-top viewpoints.
What else to know for renting a car in Madeira:
- Automatic cars sell out fast. Book early if you’re not comfortable driving manual.
- A small SUV like the VW T-Roc will be an outstanding choice for navigating narrow roads, while still having the ability to stop at the gravel roadside.
- Driving in Madeira is hilly. Prepare for steep inclines and winding switchbacks—especially if you’re heading to mountain ceremony spots like Pico do Arieiro or the high-altitude forest of Fanal (trust me, the angle of the uphill road through the villages feels crazy!).
- Pro Tip – For the amazing service and fresh cars we highly recommend booking from Just Drive Madeira. We’ve been working with them for a while with zero issues or hiccups! You can get a car from them at the airport and any address in Funchal you’ll be staying at.
Best Airbnbs and Hotels for Your Elopement in Madeira
Oh, it sometimes feels like we’ve been to every tiny bit of Madeira and seen it all. No kidding here: we’ve stayed, worked, and tried probably all kinds of private villas, luxurious hotels, lodges, and even family-owned tiny houses. That’s why we’ve created our personal top of 5 best Airbnbs and hotels to stay during your elopement day in Madeira. They’re all completely different in style, look, budget, and vibe, so I think you’ll definitely find one that fits you the best!
Here is Our Top of Airbnbs and Hotels in Madeira:
Studio Mango in Paúl do Mar
Villas Calhau da Lapa
Vi Naturae Glamping
Casa Miradouro Loft
Belmond Reid’s Palace
Vine Hotel
Quinta da Casa Branca
When to Elope in Madeira?
Madeira is one of the best elopement destinations in Europe thanks to its mild climate, which offers fantastic weather all year round. It means that you can get married in Madeira literally at any time of the year!
Our personal favorite months for elopements in Madeira are April, May, and September to November. By choosing these months, you’re escaping most of the crowds, getting fantastic deals for accommodation and airfare while the weather is still warm and predictable. Below, we shared our personal impressions of every season in Madeira, which will help you choose the right one for your adventure day.
SPRING & AUTUMN
Best for Fewer Crowds, Flower BLoom and Hiking
Spring and Fall (September to November) are shoulder seasons in Madeira and our favorites to travel to and around Madeira. They are a bit similar in average temperatures, but there are still some differences in the look and feel of the island.
Spring (March to May) in Madeira is famous for blooming flowers and fresh greenery everywhere around. If you’re not against a bit of rainy and moody weather, which can happen sometimes, spring may be your perfect season for eloping on the island. You’re guaranteed to get far fewer tourists everywhere around while not freezing – the average daily temperatures are 20°C to 24°C.
Fall (September to November), on the other hand, offers golden sunsets and fewer crowds (especially compared to summertime). Pack proper clothes in case of unexpected rain (nothing crazy: a normal waterproof jacket and hiking boots), and you’ll be rewarded with dramatic views and cinematic photographs from your special day. Temperatures are similar to spring averages of 20°C to 24°C, making it still comfortable for eloping in high-altitude spots like Pico Arieiro.
SUMMER
Perfect for Mountain Lovers and Hiking Fans
Summer in Madeira is the season with the most comfortable weather of the year. The downside side of it is that in summertime Madeira attracts the largest amount of tourists. The average summer temperature is around 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor wedding ceremonies and adventurous hiking elopements.
Long sunny days of around 8 hours can give you plenty of time for exploration and even the chance for midday sunbathing as one of the unique elopement activities! Be prepared for higher prices and getting away from crowds.
*Pro Tip – You can still have a secluded elopement ceremony even in the summertime by planning it at sunrise.
WINTER
Perfect for Dramatic Views and Lower Prices
Winter in Madeira is a season with the most dramatic weather of the year. You can have any kind of weather – wind, unexpected shower or two, or maybe even a storm?! Who knows?! Planning to elope in winter, be prepared to embrace the unexpected and go with the flow. Winter daytime average temperatures range between 16-20°C depending on the region, with higher altitudes being colder. If you’re looking for something more private (as tourism slows down significantly), maybe winter elopement in Madeira is your best choice?!
Madeira Elopement Photographer & Videographer
Hey, we’re Tony & Jane Iskra, and we’re happy to have a chance to be your elopement photographers in Madeira!
We were one of the original elopement photographers before elopements became what they are now. Since 2016, we’ve helped over 300 couples across the world to have the best elopement experience possible.
We believe the best moments in life happen outdoors. That’s why we’ve been photographing and assisting countless couples in creating unforgettable elopement experiences on the stunning island of Madeira. It’s our honor to be part of your special day!
Kind words
more reviews
“Working with Tony and Jane was so easy from the beginning. There is no way anyone could ever regret working with this dream team! If I could, I would do it all over again in a heartbeat and still have the most incredible experience.”
July + Kevin | eloped in Madeira
How to Elope in Madeira in 8 Simple Steps
Are you overwhelmed with all of the information above and don’t know where to start?!
We’ve got you covered! Here is a simple step-by-step roadmap to get you started:
Step 1: Imagine Your Day Together
Sit down with your partner and have a good talk. What does your perfect day feel like? What do you want to remember most? What experiences would you like to live through together?
Step 2: Pick Your Ideal Date
You definitely need to check our thoughts and tips about the best time to get married in Madeira above. Our best advice is to be flexible with the dates and mark at least 2-3 dates in your calendar just to have extra flexibility and pick the best accommodation and elopement vendors possible.
Step 3: Choose Your Ceremony Type
You’ll need to envision your ceremony and decide whether you want to have a legal or symbolic ceremony. (A legal wedding ceremony usually involves more paperwork and preparation, while symbolic ones give more flexibility and are far easier to organize).
Step 4: Book Your Photographer & Videographer
Book your Madeira elopement photographer that you connect with. If all the info above was useful and you feel like we could be the right fit for you, we’d be happy to be your elopement photographer, videographer, and elopement planner in Madeira. Don’t hesitate to contact us to say hi and tell us about your dreams and wishes!
Step 5: Book your transportation and accommodation
Once the date is set, it’s the right time to book your flights, accommodation, and car rental. Don’t wait and book these as early as possible to get the best fare and early bird discounts.
Pro Tip* – Since Madeira is a Portuguese territory, you’ll be able to come to Madeira following EU visa requirements. If you’re from the USA or EU, you’re able to arrive having just your passport with you!
Step 6: Select Your Dream Location
Choose the elopement locations in Madeira that fit your vibes and dreams. (We help with that!)
Step 7: Plan the Details
It’s the right time to buy or order your wedding outfits and book your florals, hair, and makeup. If you decide to have a vow ceremony, think and write down your vows in the vow book (which is also an item to pick and buy!).
Besides that, you’ll surely need good hiking boots for extra grip and a warm rain jacket – check this article to pick one.
Pro Tip* – A wedding dress and a suit that will allow you to have a hike, or at least a short walk on the rugged terrain would be a wise choice.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Day in Madeira
Your elopement day is your wedding day, not just a photoshoot. Hike, celebrate, explore — this is your adventure of a lifetime and you deserve to have a really special one!
How Much Does it Cost to Elope and Get Married in Madeira?
You can elope for as little as 0$ (having a symbolic vow ceremony somewhere beautiful) or spend €20,000+ if you include various vendors, and luxurious wedding venues and invite many guests.
Most Elopements in Madeira cost between 7500€–10.000€ (around USD 8,000$–10,500$), not including your travel costs. And the best part of it?! You can save quite a sum if you just continue your sweet honeymoon time on the magical island of Madeira.
The total cost of an elopement or an intimate wedding may also depend on the kind of experience you’re looking for and the size of your guest list (if you invite some). At the very least, you’ll need wedding attire, an amazing photographer, and a lot of love between you two! Below, you’ll find an estimate of the cost of getting married in Madeira (based on the expenses of just 2 of you).
Madeira Budget Elopement Cost
The average cost is €7,600USD, which includes:
- Marriage license (symbolic ceremony): €0
- Accommodation: €500
- Car rental: €200
- Hair + make-up: €0 (DIY)
- Attires: €1000
- Bouquet: €200
- Dinner at the cafe: €200
- Photographer (6 hours coverage): €5,500
Madeira Luxury Wedding Cost
The average cost is €23,700USD, which includes:
- Officiant: €500
- Accommodation: €1500+
- Car rental: €600
- Hair + make-up: €300
- Attires: €3000
- Bouquet: €300
- Venue: €3000+
- Wedding Planner: €1000+
- Photographer (12 hours coverage): €8,500+
- Videographer (12 hours coverage): €4,000+
Madeira Elopement Packages
Prices for our Madeira Elopement and Wedding Packages start at 5500 Euros and depend on the amount of working time & add-ons you will choose. All of the packages include:
Prices START at €5.500
Get In Touch
If you’re looking for a elopement photographer and you connect with our work, we would love to hear from you! Please allow 48 hours for a response.
Together with Tony Iskra, they are ISKRA Photography - a husband & wife duo shooting in Iceland and beyond.
