We are huge travelers and knew we wanted a destination wedding with our closest friends and family. We love the "old world" aesthetic of Europe and Portugal is one of the easiest countries to get to from the East Coast.
US and UK citizens do not need a visa. You will just need to make sure your passport is valid for up to 3 months after your return date.
The closest airport to the venue is Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport (OPO), about a 15-minute ride to the accommodations. There are direct flights to Porto from Newark via United and JFK via Delta. If you are not flying out of NYC, the most direct flight path will be a layover at Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) and then a short flight into Porto. You can also take a 3-hour train ride from Lisbon to Porto as well for ~$50/person.
We recommend arriving on Thursday 10/1. It will allow time to get settled, adjust to the time change and explore a bit of the city. Friday evening will be the welcome party, and Saturday will be the wedding. On Sunday, we plan to relax by the pool at our hotels and/or explore the surrounding area.
Pestana Douro Riverside is a 3-minute walk to the venue. It is also the more economical option of the two choices. Pestana Palacio do Freixo is our wedding venue that is also a hotel. Both offer rooms with river views and breakfast is typically included. It is truly your preference. The third option is staying at another hotel or Airbnb. However, any transportation needed will not be provided.
Transportation will not be needed as the hotels are within walking distance of the ceremony. If you are staying elsewhere, there are rideshare options available and are relatively cheap.
There is a welcome party the night before the wedding on Friday 10/2. It will start around sunset (see schedule for exact timing). Drinks and bites will be served as we embark on a 3-hour river cruise along the Douro for the full Porto experience. *For those who get queasy, there will be Dramamine provided*
The wedding dress code is Black Tie Optional. Women are asked to wear black gowns and men are asked to wear black suits or tuxedos. Please refer to "Dress Code" page on the website for more details on the welcome party and wedding.
Portugal uses the Euro. Most credit cards are accepted.
Yes. Most Portuguese speak very good English. On the rare occasion someone does not, use Google translate. Portuguese also has a lot of similarities to Spanish.
We chose our wedding date partially based on the beautiful weather in Porto this time of year! The temperature averages around 70-80 degrees during the day and cools down to approx. 60-65 degrees at night.
The ceremony will take place outside in the gardens of the palace. Given the time of year, the temperature should be comfortable. The cocktail hour will follow the ceremony in the same location. For the reception, we will be inside in an air-conditioned tent.
While we love kids, this will be an adult only wedding including the welcome party, ceremony and reception.
Yes, Uber is available in Porto. They are relatively easy to get and sometimes more affordable than taxis.
Portugal uses Type C/F plugs (two round pins) and 230V voltage. You will need an adapter.
Portugal is 5 hours ahead EST.