The Best Family Vacation in Portugal with Kids

The Best Family Vacation in Portugal with Kids

Portugal is a dream destination for families seeking a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. From stunning beaches to picturesque cities and rich history, there’s something for every age group to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the cobbled streets of Lisbon or relaxing on the Algarve coast, Portugal offers a variety of experiences that will delight kids and adults alike. Here’s a guide to the best family vacation to Portugal with kids!

Portugal Trip Ideas

Portugal is the perfect place for a family holiday, offering something for the whole family, from vibrant cities to serene countryside. Start your Portugal family vacation in Lisbon, the capital city, where tuk-tuk tours and interactive museums will delight younger children and adults alike. With direct flights into Lisbon Airport, it’s easy to begin your adventure in this historic city. Families can explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Belém Tower, indulge in vegan pastéis de nata, and enjoy a bike ride along the scenic waterfront. For a fun city break, Porto in northern Portugal is a great choice, with its charming streets, kid-friendly activities, and the opportunity to try port wine at a manor house. For those traveling with small children, the Martinhal Resorts offer kids’ clubs, high chairs, and family-friendly food to make your stay stress-free.

A Portugal road trip is ideal for families wanting to explore more of the country. In central Portugal, medieval castles like the enchanting Pena Palace in Sintra are just a short walk from train stations or parking areas, offering a great experience for curious minds. The Algarve region, known for its beautiful weather and beach resorts, is a must-visit during the summer months. Families can enjoy beach time, spot dolphins, or take a day tour to the stunning Benagil Cave. For active family adventures, a surf lesson or a visit to the thrilling Mira de Aire Caves will create lasting memories. If you have extra time, add a cultural itinerary through Peneda-Gerês National Park or a stop in the Douro Valley for wine tasting and picturesque views. With efficient public transport, rental cars, and private guides available, Portugal is a great destination for your first trip or a return visit with the entire family.

 

The Perfect Portugal Family Itinerary

1. Start with Lisbon: A City Full of Fun

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is a fantastic city to explore with kids. The cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere provide a unique backdrop for a family adventure.

Top Family-Friendly Activities in Lisbon:

• Tram 25 Ride: Hop aboard the iconic Tram 25 (don’t take the 28 – it’s way too crowded) for a scenic ride through the historic districts of Lisbon. Kids will love the rickety ride as you pass through neighborhoods like Alfama and Baixa.
• Parque das Nações: This area is home to parks, museums, and green spaces. The kids can enjoy a walk along the river, visit the Science Museum, or have fun at the children’s playground.
• Torre de Belém: Visit the historic Belém Tower and enjoy the lovely park around it. Your kids can run around and explore the tower while the parents admire the beautiful views over the Tagus River. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Jerónimos Monastery nearby.
• Castelo de São Jorge: Find the best views of Lisbon here.

Related Post: The Best Things to Do in Lisbon

How to Get Around Lisbon

Lisbon offers a variety of convenient and efficient transportation options, making it easy to explore the city and its surrounding areas. Public transport is the best way to get around Lisbon’s historic city center and vibrant neighborhoods. The metro system is fast, affordable, and well-connected, with four color-coded lines that cover major tourist areas, including Baixa-Chiado, Rossio, and the Lisbon Airport. Buses and trams, like the iconic Trams 18, 24 and 25, are perfect for navigating Lisbon’s hilly streets and visiting must-see attractions like Alfama, Belém, and the São Jorge Castle. Purchase a Viva Viagem card for unlimited travel across buses, trams, metro, and trains for 24 hours, or pay as you go for individual trips.

For more flexibility, tuk-tuk tours offer a fun and scenic way to explore the city’s narrow streets and hilltop viewpoints. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are also widely available and reasonably priced, especially for short trips. If you plan to visit nearby attractions, such as Sintra or Cascais, regional trains from major stations like Rossio or Cais do Sodré are the best way to travel. For those wanting extra time to explore Lisbon’s touristy areas or waterfront, consider renting a bike or an electric scooter. Walking is also a great choice for those who enjoy discovering hidden corners and local gems, but keep in mind Lisbon’s steep hills and cobblestone streets. Carrying a water bottle and wearing comfortable shoes can make a big difference during your adventure.

 

Where to Eat in Lisbon

READ MY VEGAN GUIDE TO LISBON FOR ALL THE BEST PLACES TO EAT

Where to Stay in Lisbon

1. 3 bedroom comfy apartment in the city center
2. Awesome location + great price
3. Comfy + close to metro and city center
4. Luxury + great location and price
5. Amazing location + sustainable loft
6. Super budget friendly + nice hostel

Fun Paid Activities in Lisbon

1. Lisbon 3-Hour Tuk Tuk Tour – a great way to see the entire city
2. Urban Revolution Visit – if you love street art, then you will love this exhibit. I went recently and greatly enjoyed it.
3. Lisbon Card – one of the best things you can buy if you plan on using public transportation and visiting museums!
4. Lisbon History, Stories and More Walking Tour – perfect way to learn more in-depth info about Lisbon
5. Lisbon Sunset Boat Tour with DJ – see the gorgeous holiday lights from the water

2. Take a Day Trip to Sintra: Fairytales Come to Life

Just a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairytale town nestled in the mountains. The train station is located within a short walking distance to the historical center. Sintra’s magical palaces, lush gardens, and ancient castles are perfect for families with young children.

 

Sintra Highlights for Families:

• Palácio da Pena: This colorful and whimsical palace looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. Kids will enjoy wandering through the rooms and exploring the castle’s towers.
• Quinta da Regaleira: A magical estate with hidden tunnels, mystical gardens, and secret caves, Quinta da Regaleira feels like a real-life treasure hunt for children.
• Castelo dos Mouros: This Moorish castle offers breathtaking views of Sintra and is a great spot for children to explore while learning about Portugal’s history.

3. Head to the Algarve for Sun, Sand, and Sea

After exploring the city, take the family to the Algarve for its golden beaches, warm weather, and family-friendly activities. The Algarve is perfect for beach lovers and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.

 

Top Family-Friendly Activities in the Algarve:

• Beaches: The Algarve is home to some of the best beaches in Portugal, with calm waters and soft sand. Praia da Marinha, Praia do Camilo, and Praia de Alvor are great for families with kids.
• Caving and Boat Tours: Take a boat tour to explore the stunning sea caves of Lagos and Benagil. The boat rides are exciting for children and offer a chance to see the Algarve’s dramatic coastline up close.
• Day Trip to Western Algarve: I highly suggest a day trip to Sagres.

1. Train: Take an Alfa Pendular or Intercidades train from Lisbon’s Oriente or Entrecampos stations to Faro or other Algarve towns. The journey takes around 2.5-3.5 hours, depending on the destination.
2. Bus: Several companies, such as Rede Expressos and FlixBus, operate routes from Lisbon’s Sete Rios or Oriente stations to cities in the Algarve, like Faro, Albufeira, or Lagos. The trip takes 3-4 hours.
3. Car: Drive south via the A2 highway, which connects Lisbon to the Algarve. The trip takes about 2.5-3 hours, and tolls apply. Rental car is the easiest way to get around the Algarve.

Where to Stay in The Algarve

1. Tavira
2. Fuseta
3. Olhão
4. Faro
5. Quarteira
6. Albufeira
7. Olhos d’Agua
8. Portimão
9. Lagos
10. Sagres

4. Visit Porto: A Charming City with a Rich History

Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is a charming destination for families. Its riverside setting, historic landmarks, and delicious food make it an excellent choice for a family trip.

Things to Do with Kids in Porto:

• Ribeira: Wander through Porto’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, Ribeira. The colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and riverside views are a delight for both children and adults.
• Livraria Lello: Book lovers will enjoy a visit to Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Its ornate wooden staircase and stained-glass windows will captivate kids’ imaginations.
• World of Discoveries: This interactive museum brings Portugal’s Age of Exploration to life. Kids can learn about Portuguese explorers through fun exhibits and interactive displays.
• Cable Car Ride: Take a ride on the Gaia Cable Car for amazing views over the Douro River and Porto’s iconic bridges.

How to get to Porto from The Algarve

You can travel from the Algarve to Porto by train, bus, or car:

1. Train: Take a regional train or bus to Faro or Tunes station, then transfer to an Intercidades or Alfa Pendular train to Porto’s Campanhã station. The total journey takes about 6-7 hours.
2. Bus: Companies like Rede Expressos and FlixBus operate routes from cities like Faro or Albufeira to Porto. The trip takes around 7-8 hours, depending on stops.
3. Car: Drive north via the A2 and A1 highways. The journey is approximately 550 km (340 miles) and takes about 5.5-6 hours, with tolls along the way.
4. Fly: You can take a short flight from Faro to Porto on TAP.

 

Where to Stay in Porto:

1. Letheshome Apartments (talk about amazing location and roomy apartment)
2. São Miguel Apartments (sustainable + amazing location)
3. Apartamentos the Arc Carris (budget-friendly + awesome location)
4. Habitatio Aliados (great location + a balcony)
5. Canto de Luz (sustainable + luxurious + affordable)

Side trip to Peneda-Gerês National Park: 

A visit to Peneda-Gerês National Park from Porto is a fantastic addition to any Portugal family vacation. Located just two hours by car from the vibrant city of Porto, this stunning UNESCO-recognized park is the perfect place for the entire family to connect with nature. A road trip is the best way to reach this northern Portugal gem, allowing you to make quick stops at charming villages and scenic overlooks along the way. Families traveling with small children can enjoy the journey with snacks, water bottles, and a Portugal guide to keep everyone entertained. Once you arrive, the park offers a wide range of family-friendly adventures, from hiking trails suitable for younger children to guided tours that showcase the region’s unique flora, fauna, and cultural history.

For those seeking outdoor activities, Peneda-Gerês delivers a great experience. The park’s crystal-clear lagoons are perfect for a picnic or a refreshing dip on a warm day, while the trails leading to ancient stone bridges and secluded waterfalls will enchant kids and adults. You can even spot wild horses and other wildlife, making it an exciting educational opportunity for small children. For an added cultural touch, visit nearby traditional villages, where the Portuguese people warmly welcome visitors with good food and local crafts. If you plan to stay overnight, there are cozy manor houses and family-friendly accommodations available. With little time needed to plan and so much to see and do, Peneda-Gerês National Park is a great choice for families wanting to escape touristy areas and experience Portugal’s natural beauty.

I recommend this beautiful location as a full day trip or taking a guided tour from Porto or you could even explore more by staying overnight in this magical place.

 

Where to Stay in Peneda-Geres National Park

1. Selina Geres – this affordable hotel looks fantastic and is right in the middle of what you’d want to see and includes a vegan breakfast!
2. Chalet Villas Geres – wow! This one-bedroom apartment is beautiful and really close to everything.
3. Casa do Lagar – this humongous 4-bedroom home is perfect for larger groups
4. Adelaide Hotel – right in the center for a fantastic price
5. Refugio de Geres Apartamento – a perfectly located apartment for a wonderful price

fun paid activities in peneda-geres national park

1. Guided Paddleboard Tour from Porto to Peneda – how fun is this?!
2. From Porto – Small Group Day Tour of Peneda-Geres – a fantastic way to see the park
3. From Porto – Geres Canyoning Tour – an in-depth way to see the park
4. Kayaking and Waterfall Hike Tour from Porto – a great day trip from Porto
5. Peneda-Geres National Park Tour – an amazing way to see the park with a guide

5. Explore the Azores: Nature Adventures for Families

For families seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, the Azores archipelago offers stunning landscapes, lush forests, and outdoor adventures. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are a perfect destination for nature-loving families.

Azores Highlights for Families:

• Lagoa das Sete Cidades: This twin-lake crater is one of the most famous sights in the Azores. Families can hike around the lakes, enjoy a picnic, and take in the breathtaking scenery.
• Terceira Island: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage city of Angra do Heroísmo, or explore the volcanic caves and geothermal hot springs.
• Whale Watching: The Azores is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Take a boat trip and spot sperm whales, dolphins, and other marine life.

How to Get to the Azores from Lisbon or Porto

Traveling to the Azores from Lisbon or Porto is straightforward and offers several convenient options. The fastest and most common way to reach the Azores is by direct flight. Multiple airlines, including TAP Air Portugal, Azores Airlines (SATA), and Ryanair, operate daily flights from Lisbon Airport (LIS) to various islands in the Azores. The most popular destinations are São Miguel (Ponta Delgada), Terceira (Lajes), and Faial (Horta), with flight times ranging from 2 to 2.5 hours depending on the island. Booking flights in advance, especially during peak travel seasons like the summer months and school holidays, ensures better prices and seat availability.

Once you arrive in the Azores, getting around is relatively easy. For those planning to explore multiple islands, inter-island flights or ferries are available, with ferry services being a scenic and budget-friendly option during warmer months. Rental cars are the best way to explore each island’s unique landscapes, such as the lush green valleys, volcanic craters, and stunning coastlines of São Miguel. Whether you’re embarking on a cultural itinerary, seeking family-friendly adventures, or just looking to relax, the Azores are a great choice for an unforgettable trip from Lisbon.

 

Where to Stay on the Island of São Miguel

1. Azores Inn – a lovely, budget-friendly hotel in Ponta Delgada
2. Vilas do Olival – an adorable villa in a central location in Ponta Delgada
3. Hotel do Colegio – a super comfy hotel for an affordable price in Ponta Delgada

6. Tips for a Stress-Free Family Vacation in Portugal

• Traveling Around: Portugal has excellent public transportation, including trains and buses that are affordable and easy to use. Consider renting a car in the Algarve or the Azores for added flexibility.
• Kid-Friendly Dining: Portuguese cuisine is generally kid-friendly, with many restaurants offering simple dishes like beans, rice, and potatoes. Don’t forget to try the famous custard tarts (pastéis de nata, vegan available in select spots) for dessert! You can find delicious veganized Portuguese food, esp in Lisbon and Porto.
• Plan for Relaxation: While there’s plenty to see and do, make sure to allow some downtime for your kids to rest. Portugal’s many parks, gardens, and beaches provide the perfect places for relaxation.
• Time Change: Make sure you take into account the time change from your home country and how this will affect your kids. We try to tough it out and stay awake until the normal time for bed to get our bodies adjusted to the time change immediately.

 

Best Time to Visit Portugal

The best time to visit Portugal depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. Generally, the country enjoys beautiful weather year-round, but the seasons bring unique highlights. For mild temperatures and fewer crowds, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are ideal. During these months, you can explore historic cities like Lisbon and Porto, enjoy outdoor activities in Peneda-Gerês National Park, or take a cultural itinerary through central Portugal without the summer rush. These are also great times for a road trip, with blooming landscapes in the spring and golden vineyards in the fall, especially in the Douro Valley.

If beach time is your priority, the summer months of June to August are perfect for visiting the Algarve region, where families can relax at beach resorts, spot dolphins, or explore the famous Benagil Cave. The warm weather also makes it a great time for surf lessons and other water activities. However, keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, so popular spots and touristy areas may be busier. For wine tasting or visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Sintra’s Pena Palace, early autumn offers pleasant weather and stunning scenery. Families traveling with small children or picky eaters may find spring and fall more comfortable, as temperatures are moderate and family-friendly food is widely available. Whether you’re planning a city break, cultural exploration, or outdoor adventure, Portugal has a season to match your perfect itinerary.

 

Advice on Itineraries for an Amazing Trip to Portugal

​One Week Itinerary for Portugal – I would spend 3 days in Lisbon and 4 days in the Algarve. Or 4 days in Lisbon and 3 days in Porto.

Two Week Itinerary for Portugal – I would spend 5 days in Lisbon, 4 days in Porto and 5 days in The Algarve (and plan a couple of day trips from each place).

More than 14 Day Itinerary for Portugal – I would spend 5 days in Lisbon, 4 days in Porto, 4 days in the Algarve and then 5 days in Madeira or the Azores.

Final Thoughts on Your Portugal Trip

Portugal offers a perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for a family vacation. Whether you’re exploring historic Lisbon, enjoying the beaches of the Algarve, or immersing yourself in the nature of the Azores, there’s something for everyone. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in Portugal!

 

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THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:

1. Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
2. Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
3. North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
4. Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
5. Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!

OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:

1. DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Europe, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
2. iTalki – if you want to learn another language before traveling to Europe or while you’re there, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
3. NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
4. Airalo E-Sim – this let’s you use your phone anywhere in the world without having to get a physical sim! We use this all the time when we travel outside Europe!
5. Big Bus Tours – the perfect way to see the city when you first arrive!
6. Get Transfer – transfers between all of the airports and cities