Portugal Destination Guide for Families

Portugal, often hailed as Europe’s hidden gem, offers an enchanting blend of rich history, captivating culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From exploring medieval castles and charming cobblestone streets to eating amazing pastries to benefiting from the warm hospitality of its people, Portugal offers families an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and delight.

Considered one of the oldest nations in Europe, Portugal boasts a wealth of historical treasures waiting to be explored. Navigators explored the world under the Portuguese flag long ago, bringing back new cultural finds. Families can wander through ancient castles, marvel at intricate tilework in historic churches, and journey back in time in fascinating museums. The country’s vibrant cities, like Lisbon and Porto, offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Portugal’s diverse landscapes, including stunning coastlines, lush vineyards, and rugged mountains, provide a picturesque backdrop for family adventures. Children can splash in the azure waters of the Algarve’s beaches, embark on scenic hikes in the Douro Valley, or cruise along the Douro River aboard a traditional boat.

Parents will enjoy vineyard tours in Porto (the birthplace of port wine), kayaking into sea caves in Algarve, or enjoying gourmet restaurants amid the active Lisbon nightlife.

Respecting local customs and traditions is key when visiting Portugal. Modesty is appreciated in religious sites, and embracing the laid-back pace of life is part of the Portuguese experience. Locals may not always be on time, as the culture accepts life as it comes. Waiting in line is nearly a Portuguese tradition in and of itself. Families can enjoy delicious cuisine at local eateries, indulge in fresh seafood, and sip on world-renowned wines in charming taverns.

You can find luxurious accommodations in Portugal, offering families a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration. Alternatively, families can opt for cozy guesthouses or rustic farm stays for an authentic Portuguese experience. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and an endless array of activities, Portugal promises families a vacation they’ll cherish for a lifetime. (Check below for recommendations for each top city in Portugal.)

Top 5 Family-Friendly Activities in Portugal

1. Explore Magical Sintra

Sintra is a charming city with lush landscapes and fairy-tale castles, just a short train journey away from Lisbon. Portugal offers families endless fun with its sunny beaches, historic downtowns, and dozens of museums. However, when it comes to exploring historic castles, Sintra truly shines.

Sintra is a gem waiting to be discovered, offering a magical journey that captivates everyone. Easily accessible from Lisbon, the journey is only 30 minutes, but stepping off the train feels like entering a different world. As you wander through the city, you’ll find it easily walkable, with plenty of snacks, cafes, and restaurants to keep everyone satisfied. Plus, the Portuguese are famously welcoming to families, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The history of Sintra is simply astounding, with parts of the city dating back to the 6th to 9th century BC, showcasing influences from the Moors, Romans, and more. But it’s not just the historic buildings that will capture your imagination; nearly all of the palaces boast massive gardens with watch towers, chapels, caves, and more, providing endless opportunities for exploration. And if you’re visiting during the summer months, you’ll appreciate the cooler temperatures, offering relief from the intense heat that Portugal’s 30 million annual visitors often encounter.

But what truly sets Sintra apart is its array of enchanting palaces, including the stunning Pena Palace and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira. Kids will be delighted to explore these historic treasures, uncovering hidden tunnels and secret passages as they immerse themselves in the magic of Sintra.

2. Visit Historic Lisbon

Visit historic Lisbon, where cobblestone streets whisper tales of bygone eras, and every corner holds a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern excitement, making it an ideal destination for families.

Lose yourself in the colorful maze of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. Here, the scent of freshly baked pastries mingles with the soulful strains of Fado music drifting from quaint taverns. The narrow, winding streets are full of charm and history, offering a glimpse into Lisbon’s rich past.

Ascend to the ancient ramparts of São Jorge Castle, where sweeping views of the city below evoke a sense of awe and wonder. Children will love imagining themselves defending the castle from intruders and delight in the local peacocks that live in the trees in front of the castle. The castle’s history and panoramic views make it a must-visit attraction.

Don’t miss the chance to hop aboard the iconic Tram 28. This rickety yet charming journey takes you through Lisbon’s most iconic neighborhoods and into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture at every turn. However, be aware of pickpockets as tourists are often targeted on this popular tram route. It’s a fun and memorable way to explore the city while learning about its history.

Lisbon is also home to a variety of museums, parks, and waterfront areas that are perfect for family exploration. The Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe, is a favorite among kids and adults alike. The expansive Parque das Nações offers green spaces, playgrounds, and stunning views along the Tagus River.

3. Discover Enchanting Madeira

Even though we’ve lived in Portugal for two years now, we just got around to visiting the beautiful island of Madeira last summer. Boy, were we shocked! We absolutely fell in love with Madeira. Within a few days, we were looking up properties for sale and wondering if our kids would move there! It’s like a Portuguese Hawaii. We’ve also visited Portugal’s other set of islands, the Azores, and loved them too.

Madeira’s lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless outdoor adventures make it a unique escape from the everyday. Easily accessible with just a 45-minute plane trip from Lisbon, Madeira is perfect for spontaneous getaways.

The island’s breathtaking scenery includes towering mountain peaks and lush, green valleys, with numerous walking trails and parks that offer kids the chance to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Madeira’s ancient irrigation channels, known as levadas, lead to stunning waterfalls and make for adventurous hikes filled with natural beauty and excitement.

Navigating Madeira’s capital city, Funchal, and its charming streets is a breeze. There are plenty of local markets, cafes, and restaurants to keep everyone satisfied.

The island’s botanical gardens, such as the Madeira Botanical Garden and Monte Palace Tropical Garden, feature exotic plants, vibrant flowers, and friendly birds, making for colorful and educational family outings.

While the water in Madeira might not be as warm as Hawaii, and there are fewer sandy beaches, the natural rock pools and scenic coastal spots more than make up for it. The island’s mix of natural rock pools and sandy beaches, like those at Porto Moniz and Calheta, provide ideal spots for family fun in the sun. Kids will also be thrilled by the cable car ride from Funchal to Monte, offering spectacular views of the island.

What truly sets Madeira apart is its combination of natural beauty and exciting activities, such as whale and dolphin watching. Madeira is one of the best places in Europe to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

4. Experience Porto's Charm

Experience the vibrant city of Porto through a walk along the scenic Douro River. This city, famous for its rich history and cultural heritage, offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern excitement, making it a perfect destination for families.

The climate of Porto always clocks in a few degrees cooler than its southern counterpart, Lisbon, and receives more rain. The beaches are more rocky (and the water is colder!), but the city itself is more beautiful than its southern counterpart. The people are also known to be friendlier.

Start your adventure with a stroll along the Douro River, where you can enjoy the beautiful views. The riverfront promenade is filled with street performers, local vendors, and charming cafes. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the beauty of Porto.

The historic Ribeira district is a must-visit. Wander through its narrow, winding streets and admire the colorful buildings that line the waterfront. This UNESCO World Heritage site is full of character, with its old houses, bustling squares, and lively atmosphere. Stop by one of the local eateries to sample delicious Portuguese cuisine. From traditional dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) and the famous Francesinha (a meat-filled sandwich topped with sauce and melted cheese) to sweet treats like pastéis de nata, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

We highly recommend a boat tour along the Douro River for a different perspective of the city. These tours offer stunning views of Porto’s skyline, including the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge and the historic wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. It’s a relaxing and enjoyable way to see the city and learn about its rich history. Seeing the river or city views at sunset is even more magical

Porto is also known for its wine, so be sure to visit one of the many wine cellars for a tasting or participate in a wine tour at local vineyards. The region is famous for its port wine, and a tour of the cellars provides insight into the winemaking process and the opportunity to sample some of the best wines in the world.

Don’t forget to explore the many museums, art galleries, and theaters that Porto has to offer, especially for kids. The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art and the Casa da Música are particularly notable and offer engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

5. Go on an Adventure in the Azores

The natural beauty of the Azores is breathtaking! Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, these islands are a paradise waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, the Azores islands are the perfect destination for families.

The Azores offer a range of unforgettable experiences from hiking along volcanic trails with stunning views to whale watching in the Atlantic, every moment in the Azores feels like an adventure. Many have coined the Azores the “cold Maui” of Europe, and we agreed with this assessment. The islands’ lush landscapes, dotted with hot springs, waterfalls, and verdant pastures, will stun and amaze even the smallest traveler.

Hiking in the Azores is a must-do activity. Trails like the Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo take you through breathtaking scenery, from crater lakes to lush forests. These hikes are not only fun but also educational, giving kids a chance to learn about volcanic activity and the unique ecosystem of the islands.

The Azores are also perfect for other outdoor activities like kayaking, canyoning, snorkeling, and exploring lava tubes. The islands’ natural parks and protected areas offer countless opportunities for adventure and discovery. After a day full of activities, you can relax in one of the many hot springs, such as those in Furnas on São Miguel Island, which are perfect for soothing tired muscles.

Other Family Experiences in Portugal To Enjoy

1. Visit the Charming City of Obidos: Obidos is rich in culture and surrounded by a city wall. Obidos requires a car to visit but is only an hour from Lisbon. Festivals occur year-round, including chocolate festivals, wine festivals, summer medieval festivals (LINK HERE), and Christmas markets. We visit Obidos several times a year.

3. Family-Friendly Vineyard Tours: Explore Portugal’s picturesque wine regions, such as the Douro Valley or Alentejo, on family-friendly vineyard tours. Kids can learn about wine-making processes, stroll through vineyards, and even participate in grape stomping activities.

4. Ocean Adventures: Take the family on an ocean adventure along Portugal’s stunning coastline. Try surfing lessons in Ericeira or Sagres, go dolphin watching in the waters off Setúbal, or embark on a boat tour to discover hidden caves and rock formations along the Algarve coast.

5. Theme Parks and Water Parks: Treat the kids to a day of fun and excitement at Portugal’s theme parks and water parks. Visit popular attractions like Zoomarine in Albufeira, Aquashow Park in Quarteira, or Portugal’s largest theme park, Pena Aventura Park, in the north of the country.

6. Family-Friendly Festivals: Experience the vibrant culture of Portugal by attending family-friendly festivals and events throughout the year. From colorful street festivals celebrating saints’ days to lively music festivals showcasing traditional Portuguese music, there’s always something exciting happening in Portugal.

7. Nature Reserves and National Parks: Discover Portugal’s natural beauty by exploring its nature reserves and national parks. Go Dolphin watching in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, hike through the lush forests of Peneda-Gerês National Park, or take a jeep safari in the rugged landscape of Arrábida Natural Park.

8. Historic Train Journeys: Go on a scenic train journey through Portugal’s historic countryside. Ride the historic steam train through the Douro Valley, take the family-friendly Linha do Vouga train to explore rural villages, or hop aboard the scenic Santa Luzia Funicular in Viana do Castelo for panoramic views of the city and coastline.

9. Explore Historic Coimbra: Home to one of the world’s oldest universities and the delightful Portugal dos Pequenitos. This miniature park features scaled-down replicas of Portuguese landmarks, offering a magical journey through the country’s history. Easily accessible by train or car, Coimbra is a must-visit for families traveling between Lisbon and Porto.

10. Discover the Charm of Aveiro: The “Venice of Portugal,” known for its scenic canals and colorful moliceiro boats. Enjoy boat tours, explore charming streets, and taste the local delicacy of ovos moles. Aveiro combines cultural charm with nearby beautiful beaches for a perfect family outing.

11. Adventure in Gerês National Park: This park offers thrilling outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. Families can explore the park’s natural beauty, enjoy thermal spas, and encounter wildlife. It’s the ideal destination for adventurous families seeking a nature-filled getaway.

12. Relax at Portugal’s River Beaches: Enjoy the sandy river beaches in central Portugal, such as Castanheira and Foz d’Égua. These family-friendly spots offer safe, shallow waters for kids to splash around and are also beautiful settings for picnics. Perfect for a refreshing summer escape.

Travel Costs for Your Family Trip to Portugal

Airfare

The cost of flights to Portugal varies depending on the departure location and time of booking. On average, a round-trip ticket for a family of four can range from $800 to $1,500.

Check Rates. Below is a chart listing the most common departure places: US (NY) and EU (Amsterdam).

Accommodation

Accommodation options in Portugal range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. On average, expect to pay between $50 to $300 per night for a family room, depending on the location and amenities. You can check our recommendations for each place in this section (LINKED TO “Where to Stay With Kids in Portugal)

Transportation

Public transportation, such as buses, trams, and trains, is efficient and affordable in Portugal. Taxis and rideshare services are also available and relatively inexpensive. Budget around $20 to $50 per day for transportation. Check the ratings on Tripadvisor for Tour guide vehicles / Taxis in Portugal.

To see all of Portugal, we recommend renting a car. You can time your trip so you don’t have one while in Lisbon (as it’s not needed) and pick it up when you are ready to leave, or drop it at the end of your trip and enjoy Lisbon for your last few days.

Meals

Dining out in Portugal offers a wide range of options, from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international fare. On average, budget around $20 to $50 per person per day for meals, depending on your dining preferences. Local Portuguese food can be very affordable with luches, o prato do dia, coming in around 6-7 euros. These plates offer the working locals large portions of healthy food with soup often included.

However, you can always find more expensive restaurants to spend your money on! We like trying a bit of both, enjoying some local fare as well as more expensive options from time to time.

Traditional Portuguese food can be somewhat bland, as they think you should salt the food yourself (or skip it for health reasons). Locals eat fish daily, along with a vegetable soup, salad, rice and bread. Grilled chicken, or frango asado, is delicious in Portugal and worth trying from a grill.

Top 10 Meals to Eat in Portugal With Kids

1.Pastéis de Nata: These creamy custard tarts with flaky pastry are a Portuguese specialty and a hit with kids and adults alike. You can find them in bakeries and cafes throughout Portugal. The most famous are in Belem, near Lisbon, at Pasteis de Belem.

2. Francesinha: A hearty and indulgent sandwich originating from Porto, the Francesinha typically contains layers of bread, ham, linguiça (smoked sausage), and steak, topped with melted cheese and a rich beer-based sauce. It’s a satisfying meal that kids will love.

3. Bacalhau à Brás: This classic Portuguese dish features salted codfish cooked with onions, potatoes, and scrambled eggs, seasoned with parsley and olives. It’s flavorful and comforting, perfect for a family dinner.

4. Piri Piri Chicken: Grilled chicken marinated in spicy piri piri sauce is a popular dish in Portugal. Kids can enjoy the flavorful chicken with a side of fries or rice, while adults can appreciate the heat of the sauce.

5. Caldo Verde: This traditional Portuguese soup is made with potatoes, kale, onions, and chorizo or smoked sausage. It’s hearty and nutritious, ideal for warming up on cooler days.

6. Chouriço Assado: Grilled or roasted chouriço sausage is a simple and tasty snack or appetizer that kids will love. The smoky and savory flavors are sure to be a hit.

7. Gelado: Portuguese ice cream is known for its creamy texture and delicious flavors. Treat the kids to a scoop or two of gelado, with classic options like vanilla and chocolate or more adventurous flavors like passion fruit or almond.

8. Fresh Seafood: Portugal’s coastal location means an abundance of fresh seafood options. Kids can enjoy grilled fish, shrimp, or octopus, served with rice or potatoes.

9. Queijadas: These sweet and creamy cheese tarts are a popular dessert in Portugal. Kids will enjoy the rich flavor and smooth texture of these delightful treats.

10 Fruit and Pastries: Don’t forget to sample Portugal’s fresh fruit, such as oranges, figs, and strawberries, as well as its delicious pastries like bola de Berlim (custard-filled doughnuts).

Sightseeing

Entrance fees to popular attractions in Portugal, such as historic sites, museums, and palaces, vary. Budget around $10 to $30 per person for sightseeing activities. Some museums are very affordable, around 2-3€ per person with children free and students discounted. Most museums in Lisbon have at least one free day a month, usually the first Sunday, but some museums offer free entrance in the summer on all Sundays.

Note that museums are generally closed on Mondays in Lisbon. Many people flock to Sintra on Mondays, so expect crowds.

A great way to see Lisbon, Porto, and Sintra is a TukTuk tour (like a fast go-kart with seats). The drivers are locals who can teach you all about the city and offer special recommendations. These typically cost 20-30€ per person for a tour but are very negotiable. Barter hard, especially for children.

Top Tours

Guided Lisbon walking tour: Explore historic neighborhoods.
Sintra day trip: Discover Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
Douro River cruise: Enjoy wine tasting amid scenic views.

Miscellaneous

Don’t forget to budget for miscellaneous expenses such as souvenirs, tips, and travel insurance. Budget an additional $50 to $100 per person for miscellaneous expenses.

How To Keep Your Family Safe in Portugal

1.Stay Informed: (I post a lot of information in our main blog 7WF and American Family in Portugal)

Before your trip, familiarize yourself with Portugal’s safety guidelines and emergency procedures. Stay updated on any travel advisories or alerts issued by your home country’s embassy or consulate in Portugal.
For emergencies in Portugal, dial 112.

2.Transportation Safety:

Buckle Up. Whether traveling by car, train, or bus, always use appropriate child safety restraints. Europe has car-seat laws very similar to the USA. Ensure children are securely fastened in car seats or booster seats, and obey all traffic laws and regulations.

3.Portugal’s climate can be warm, especially during the summer months. Encourage your family to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using sunscreen to protect against sunburn.

4.Portugal receives approximately 30 million visitors a year, many coming from cruise ships docking in Lisbon and Porto. The summer months are flush with tourists, and practicing patience is essential for all visitors and locals alike.

5.While being a pedestrian in Portugal is relatively easy, as most locals do not own cars in the city, be aware and cautious when crossing streets. The local cobblestone sidewalks, called calçadas, are beautiful but dangerous when wet. Use caution when it is rainy or misty. In some parts of the cities, sidewalks are thin or don’t exist at all, so use caution when walking.

Where To Stay With Kids in Portugal

Lisbon

Lisbon offers a variety of family-friendly hotels and apartments. Look for accommodations in the historic neighborhoods of Baixa, Alfama, or Chiado, where you’ll find easy access to attractions, restaurants, and public transportation.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Lisbon:

Lisbon City Hotel : Central location perfect for exploring the city.
Hotel Mundial : Rooftop terrace and close proximity to key attractions.
Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Family Suites: Spacious suites designed for comfort and convenience, complete with child-friendly amenities.
Avenida Palace : Luxurious decor and a prime location near Lisbon’s main attractions.
Jupiter Lisboa Hotel: Relaxing stay with extensive facilities, including a rooftop pool and spa

Porto

Portugal’s second-largest city has charming neighborhoods, historic sites, and scenic river views. Choose a hotel in the city center or along the Douro River for easy exploration of Porto’s attractions.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Porto:

Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel : Central location perfect for exploring the city.
The Yeatman Hotel : Stunning rooftop terrace where you can enjoy panoramic views of Porto.
InterContinental Porto – Palacio das Cardosas : In the heart of Porto’s historic district.
Pestana Porto – A Brasileira City Center & Heritage Building : Boutique in Porto’s city center.

Algarve

Known for its stunning beaches and picturesque coastal towns, the Algarve region is a popular destination for families. Look for family-friendly resorts, villas, or apartments near the beach for a relaxing seaside getaway.

Family-Friendly Resorts in the Algarve:

Pine Cliffs Resort : Luxury and perfect views to the stunning cliffs and beaches.
Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort : Family-friendly by the sea.
Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa : Great amenities!
Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort : Luxury hotel, with 4 restaurants and a great pool for kids!

Sintra

The fairytale town of Sintra and its enchanting palaces and gardens, is a nice spot to stay in a charming guesthouse or boutique hotel in the historic town center, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views.

Family-Friendly Accommodations in Sintra:

Tivoli Palácio de Seteais: Elegant palace hotel with a great view of Sintra.
Lawrences Hotel: Historic hotel in the heart of Sintra.
Sintra Bliss Hotel: Surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for kids!

Madeira

This beautiful island destination offers plenty of family-friendly accommodations, from beachfront resorts to mountain retreats. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and exploring botanical gardens.

Family-Friendly Resorts in Madeira:

Vidamar Resorts Madeira: Luxury resort with stunning ocean views.
Pestana Royal Premium All-Inclusive Ocean & Spa Resort: All-inclusive on Madeira’s coast.
The Cliff Bay: Panoramic sea views
PortoBay Serra Golf: Great to have Madeira’s scenic mountains

Best Ways for Families To Travel Around Portugal

Renting a Car

Renting a car provides families with the freedom to explore Portugal at its own pace. From the picturesque countryside to charming villages and coastal towns, having a car allows you to tailor your itinerary to suit your family’s interests and preferences.

Road Trip Adventures can be from the scenic Douro Valley to the historic Algarve region, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting to be discovered on the open road.

These are some cars ideal for families, mostly when you are traveling with a lot of luggage and car seats.

Hyundai Kauai – from $56USD for 3 days
Volkswagen T-Cross – from $94 for 3 days
Fiat 500X – from $53 per day
VolkswagenT-Roc – from $60 per day

Public Transportation

Portugal’s efficient public transportation network makes it easy for families to navigate major cities and travel between regions. Trains, buses, and metro systems are equipped with amenities like restrooms (although not always clean) and spacious seating areas, ensuring a comfortable journey for travelers of all ages. Buy day passes to explore by train, metro and bus.

Look for family-friendly services offered by public transportation providers, such as discounted fares for children, designated seating areas for families, and assistance for passengers with strollers or luggage. Many stations and terminals also have amenities like playgrounds and cafes to keep children entertained during transit.

Guided Tours

Joining family-friendly guided tours is a hassle-free way to explore Portugal’s top attractions while catering to the needs and interests of children. Choose from a variety of themed tours, such as history, nature, or culinary experiences, designed to engage and entertain visitors of all ages.

Many guided tours incorporate interactive activities and hands-on learning experiences, making them both educational and fun for children. From treasure hunts and scavenger hunts to storytelling sessions and craft workshops, there’s something for every young explorer to enjoy.

Cycling and Walking

Portugal’s scenic landscapes and pedestrian-friendly cities are ideal for family cycling trips or leisurely strolls. Explore designated cycling paths, waterfront promenades, and historic neighborhoods, soaking in the sights and sounds of this captivating country.

Rent bicycles or tandem bikes suitable for children of all ages, along with helmets and safety equipment, from local rental shops or tour operators. Many cities also offer bike-sharing schemes, providing a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore urban areas with your family.

Ferry and Boat Trips

If you’re visiting the Azores or Madeira archipelagos, don’t miss the opportunity to explore these islands by ferry or boat. Set sail on a family-friendly excursion, discovering volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and colorful marine life along the way.

Top 5 Family Tours Around Portugal

*Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Opinions shared are my own, and I only endorse products I support. By clicking on any of the links below, I may get a small commission if you purchase at absolutely no additional charge to you. I appreciate your support.*

1. From Porto: Douro Valley w/ Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch | GetYourGuide