Planning Your Elopement in a Charming Coastal Town Near Lisbon?

Planning Your Elopement in a Charming Coastal Town Near Lisbon: A Real Elopement Story in Paço de Arcos

If you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement in a stunning coastal town near Lisbon, Paço de Arcos in Oeiras might be right for you. Just a short 20-minute drive from the heart of Lisbon, this quaint seaside town I full of gorgeous views, historic landmarks, and and Loal beaches — perfect for couples looking to say "I do" away from the hustle and bustle.

Take a look at John & Cielo's beautiful elopement day in Paço de Arcos, and get inspired for your own seaside celebration.

couple kissing in Lisbon
couple kissing on their elopement day
couple kissing in portugal
couple eloping in Portugal

A Stroll Through Jardim Palácio dos Arcos

The couple’s day started at Jardim Palácio dos Arcos, a peaceful garden with lush greenery and serene pathways. The immediately immersed themselves in the calm surroundings of the garden. This location, nestled near the historical Paço de Arcos, provided a perfect backdrop for a relaxing start to their day.

couple together on their elopement day

Writing Vows in the Garden

The couple also took this time to reflect on their journey together and write their vows in preparation for the ceremony at Praia de Santo Amaro. This quiet, personal moment was followed by a portrait session, where I photographed captured the couple's connection amid the garden’s natural beauty.

woman write vows I a garden
couple sitting at Jardim Palácio dos Arcos
man write vows I a garden
couples wedding shoes in lisbon

A Stroll to Paço de Arcos Azulejos

Following their time in the garden, the John & Kiely took a leisurely walk to Paço de Arcos Azulejos, a stunning location known for its traditional Portuguese blue tiles. Just a short stroll away, the azulejos offered another picturesque setting for their day. The intricate designs of the tiles added a touch of history and culture to their elopement day.

They also took a moment to enjoy drinks a a small cheese cake—literally made of stacked cheese wheels. Since John and Cielo aren’t big fans of sweets, they opted for something a bit different, and totally true to them.

azulejos cake cutting lisbon wedding
bridal portrais, lisbon portugal
lisbon wedding, couples kissing
Lisbon, Portugal elopement
Husband portraits - Lisbon wedding

Portrait Session at Praia Velha

Next, the couple made their way to Praia Velha—a quiet, scenic beach perfect for romantic portraits by the sea. A cool breeze and the soft glow of the setting sun set the mood for intimate photos. John also took a moment to photograph Cielo himself. As a hobbyist photographer, it was important to him to capture a few memories of his wife, through his own lens.

take pictures, elopement activities, lisbon
take pictures, elopement activities, lisbon

First Dance and Portraits at Praia Velha

To wrap up their unforgettable elopement day, John and Cielo shared a private first dance on the beach. The soft golden glow of the setting sun bathed the couple in a magical light as they danced to their own song, surrounded by the beauty of Portugal’s coastline.

First dance elopement in lisbon
First dance wedding in lisbon

Heading to Praia de Santa Amaro

With the sun beginning to dip below the horizon, John and Cielo made their way to Praia de Santo Amaro, a calm and spacious beach along the Oeiras coastline. Known for its soft sands, gentle waves, and open coastal views, it offered a quiet and relaxed setting for the couple to slow down and savor the final moments of their day. It was the perfect spot to pause, reflect, and exchange vows.

beach wedding, lisbon
beach wedding lisbon
lisbon beach elopement

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Why Choose Paço de Arcos for Your Elopement?

Paço de Arcos offers the perfect mix of history, natural beauty, and intimate settings, making it an ideal location for couples looking to elope near Lisbon. Its proximity to the city (just 20 minutes away) means you can easily escape the crowds of Lisbon while still enjoying the convenience of being close to the city’s amenities. Whether you’re looking for charming gardens, stunning azulejos, or coastal beaches, Paço de Arcos has everything you need for a dreamy and peaceful elopement day.

If you’re thinking about eloping in a coastal town near Lisbon, consider Paço de Arcos.

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