Best Places for Families to Travel in Portugal

Portugal is a treasure trove of cultural history, stunning landscapes, and family-friendly activities. With its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and rich heritage, it's an ideal destination for families traveling with kids. From the historic streets of Lisbon to the magical palaces of Sintra, there's something to delight every member of the family. Here are some of the best cities and towns in Portugal that cater to families, offering a mix of educational experiences, outdoor fun, and a chance to immerse in the local culture.

Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a vibrant and colorful destination that offers a variety of experiences for families. The Oceanário de Lisboa is a must-visit, as it's one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe, showcasing a vast array of marine life. For a taste of history, the Lisbon Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) provides panoramic views of the city and a chance for kids to imagine life in medieval times. The interactive and kid-friendly Pavilion of Knowledge (Pavilhão do Conhecimento) is another great spot, filled with hands-on science exhibits. The best time to visit Lisbon with kids is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the cable car ride at Parque das Nações. It offers a unique perspective of the city and the Tagus River, and it's a fun way for kids to see the sights from above.

Where to Stay & Eat: Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Family Suites offer family-friendly accommodations in the heart of Lisbon, complete with kids' club services. For a meal, head to Time Out Market Lisboa, where you'll find a variety of food stalls catering to all tastes.

Porto

Porto, known for its stunning riverside views and port wine, is also a fantastic destination for families. The World of Discoveries is an interactive museum and theme park that takes visitors on a journey through the history of Portuguese explorers. The Crystal Palace Gardens (Jardins do Palácio de Cristal) offer a peaceful retreat with peacocks roaming freely and a playground for children. Visit during the summer for the best weather, but be prepared for some crowds. To save on costs, consider purchasing a Porto Card, which offers free or discounted access to many attractions and public transport.

Travel Tip: Take a ride on the historical tram, especially Tram 1, which runs along the river to Foz do Douro, where kids can enjoy the beach and the seafront playgrounds.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Yeatman is a luxury hotel that caters to families, with a kids' club and indoor pool. For dining, try Miss'Opo for its kid-friendly menu and relaxed atmosphere.

Albufeira, Algarve

Albufeira, in the Algarve region, is a beach paradise with a plethora of family-friendly activities. The Zoomarine Algarve is an oceanographic park that combines marine life shows, aquariums, and water slides – perfect for a day of fun. The Algarve's beaches, like Praia da Galé, are ideal for building sandcastles and enjoying water sports. Visit in late spring or early autumn to enjoy warm weather without the peak season crowds. Look for all-inclusive resort deals to keep costs down and simplify your stay.

Travel Tip: At Zoomarine, don't miss the opportunity to interact with dolphins – it's an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike.

Where to Stay & Eat: The São Rafael Suites is a family-friendly all-inclusive resort close to the beach. For a casual dining experience, try the family-friendly Urban Pizza in Albufeira.

Sintra

Sintra is a fairytale town just a short trip from Lisbon, known for its enchanting palaces and castles. The Pena Palace, with its bright colors and whimsical design, is like stepping into a storybook – a hit with kids. The Moorish Castle offers adventurous paths and stunning views. Visit in the shoulder seasons of spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer tourists. To save money, consider buying a combined ticket for the main attractions.

Travel Tip: Explore the hidden tunnels and caves at Quinta da Regaleira – it's a magical experience that feels like a real-life treasure hunt for children.

Where to Stay & Eat: Sintra Boutique Hotel offers family rooms and is centrally located. For a meal, try Incomum by Luis Santos, which has a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that caters to younger palates.

Coimbra

Coimbra is a city steeped in academic tradition, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. The Portugal dos Pequenitos is a miniature park that features scaled-down versions of Portuguese houses and monuments, perfect for little explorers. The city's botanical garden is another peaceful spot for families to enjoy. Visit during the cooler months of spring or fall to avoid the heat and enjoy the city comfortably. Many of Coimbra's attractions are free or offer reduced prices for children.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the interactive exhibits at the Exploratório – Centro Ciência Viva de Coimbra, where kids can engage in hands-on science activities.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas offers family-friendly luxury with a historical twist and has a playground on site. For dining, try Ze Manel dos Ossos for authentic Portuguese cuisine in a quirky setting.

Óbidos

Óbidos is a charming medieval town that feels like a step back in time. The town's castle, now a hotel, dominates the landscape, and the walls are open for walking – a great adventure for kids. Óbidos hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the popular Chocolate Festival in spring. Visit during festival times for a unique experience, but book accommodation in advance as the town gets busy. To save on costs, stay in nearby towns and visit Óbidos for a day trip.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting during the Christmas season, the Óbidos Vila Natal is a festive event with Christmas-themed entertainment and activities that children love.

Where to Stay & Eat: Stay at the family-friendly Josefa D'Óbidos Hotel for its central location. For a sweet treat, visit the local chocolate shops that Óbidos is famous for.

Aveiro

Often referred to as the "Venice of Portugal," Aveiro is known for its picturesque canals and colorful moliceiro boats. A boat tour is a fun way for families to see the city. The nearby beaches, like Costa Nova with its striped houses, are perfect for a day of relaxation and play. Visit in the summer for beach weather, but be aware that it's also the busiest season. To save on costs, consider renting bicycles to explore the town and its surroundings.

Travel Tip: Take a workshop at the Oficina do Doce where you can learn how to make ovos moles, a traditional sweet from Aveiro, which is a fun and tasty activity for the whole family.

Where to Stay & Eat: Meliá Ria Hotel & Spa offers family rooms and an indoor pool, making it a comfortable base for exploring Aveiro. For dining, try O Batel, which is known for its child-friendly menu and views of the canal.

Each of these destinations in Portugal offers unique experiences that will create lasting memories for your family. With a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and child-friendly amenities, Portugal is a country that truly welcomes visitors of all ages.