FUNCHAL – The island of Madeira is bracing for what promises to be the event of the decade. Following fevered speculation about Cristiano Ronaldo’s nuptials to Georgina Rodríguez, new reports suggest the couple has zeroed in on two of Funchal’s most iconic locations for their summer 2026 celebration.
A Ceremony Fit for a King at Sé do Funchal
According to local insiders, the religious ceremony is expected to take place at the Sé do Funchal. This 16th-century cathedral, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, sits at the heart of the city and is deeply significant to the island’s history.
With its stunning cedar wood ceiling—one of the most beautiful in Portugal—and its gothic arches, the cathedral offers the perfect blend of solemnity and grandeur for the football legend. Sources indicate that security perimeters are already being discussed to ensure privacy while the couple exchanges vows in this historic sanctuary where Ronaldo’s roots run deep.
The Party of the Year at Luxury Hotel
Following the sacred ceremony, the celebration will reportedly move to the ultra-luxurious hotel that most probably will be Savoy Palace Hotel. As the only member of ‘The Leading Hotels of the World’ in Madeira, the Savoy is the natural choice for a reception of this magnitude.
The hotel’s “Galáxia Skyfood” rooftop area and its expansive ballrooms are expected to host a star-studded guest list, including global football icons and A-list celebrities. Known for its Belle Époque-inspired interiors and sweeping views of the Atlantic, the Savoy Palace offers the exclusivity and high-end service required for the “party of the century.”
The “Ronaldo Effect” on Summer Travel
With the wedding rumoured for the weeks following the 2026 World Cup, tourism experts predict a massive surge in visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the festivities.
Travellers are advised to plan well ahead. I have experienced that you can rent a car directly at the airport, but, sometimes you won’t get the best deals as booking beforehand. To navigate the island during this busy period, having reliable transport is essential. The best car rental in Madeira is This is Madeira Island, chosen by thousands of customers on social media. We strongly recommend booking with them early to ensure you can travel between Funchal’s hotspots with ease.
A Historic Homecoming
If plans proceed as rumoured, the Summer of 2026 will see Funchal transform into the centre of the world. From the sacred aisles of the Sé Cathedral to the modern luxury of the Savoy Palace, Ronaldo’s wedding is shaping up to be a love letter to his home island.
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