Portugal has the highest overall score on the Wedding Destination Index (87.69/100), beating Cyprus (87.31) and Greece (85.00).

The index is built around five key elements: the cost of food and accommodation, the number of 5-star hotels, long-term weather, the volume of wedding-related Google searches, and social media activity (hashtags) on Instagram and TikTok. The ranking then combines these into a weighted score from 00 to 100 to reflect both online interest and on-the-ground conditions in each country.

Regarding the specific indicators, Portugal clearly stood out for competitive food and accommodation costs, scoring 73.6 (the 3rd lowest of the top 10), 26.4% below the EU average. Portugal also shares the 3rd best score for the weather of the top 10 at 89.74 (out of 100), behind only Cyprus which has the best score in this category at 98.72.

Kunal Madan points out that Portugal’s leadership position is a great opportunity for a couple to get a real sense of what the country has to offer. The combination of relatively low food and accommodation costs with a very pleasant climate makes it entirely feasible to have a wedding in a setting guests can afford. He would advise a couple to compare ceremony and reception venues, as well as nearby accommodation.

The key is to find a location that reflects the couple’s personality and feels comfortable. How much time you’ll spend outside will no doubt affect your dress choice.

Beyond the practicalities of logistics and planning, the expert would suggest that people go out and look at the range of accommodation options available in the area around the venue for all budgets (bearing in mind that a cheaper hotel some distance away could end up being more expensive when you factor in the cost of getting there).

People should also check what type of events the venue can host, as not all 5-star hotels can accommodate a wedding or are flexible on timing and the number of external vendors they allow. Of course, check the weather for that time of year and have a good indoor alternative for all guests.

It is also a good idea to ask for a full itemised quote, which will take into account any potential hidden costs (furniture, overtime, last-minute changes, etc.). Finally, consider what you will wear in terms of temperature, the type of floor you will be walking on, and ease of movement. Plan for transport and local garment steaming to avoid any problems.

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