Family Activities and Destinations in Portugal

Portugal is among the most family-friendly nations in Europe, where children are embraced as a part of everyday life. From museums to restaurants, and town squares to theaters, kids are always welcome. The cities are filled with parks and playgrounds, while the countryside offers stunning natural beauty.

With an average of 300 sunny days each year and the mildest climate in Europe, Portugal is the perfect spot for family adventures. The hardest part will be choosing where to visit! Keep reading to discover the top places in Portugal to explore with your children.

Is Portugal a great destination for kids?

Families are highly valued in Portuguese culture, ensuring a warm welcome throughout the country. Parents with young children and pregnant individuals often receive priority in supermarket lines and on public transport, and breastfeeding in public is met with understanding. In Lisbon, tweens and teens confidently navigate public transport on their own, highlighting the safety of the cities.

One potential challenge for parents is the sidewalks, which can be steep, bumpy, and narrow, making them less than ideal for strollers or young children. However, the family-friendly culture here makes up for it, inviting you to take your kids – from babies to teens – almost everywhere.

What are the best places in Portugal for kids?

Picture your family enjoying surf lessons or hiking along the stunning Costa Vicentina; taking road trips down the coast, embarking on river cruises, exploring vineyards, or going horseback riding with your kids. The possibilities are endless, and here are some of the most exciting experiences to share with your family in Portugal.

Dare to walk the Arouca 516 suspension bridge

Ideal for kids, tweens & teens

Just a short drive from Porto, the Arouca Unesco Global Geopark features the world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge, stretching 516 meters (1,693 ft) and soaring 175 meters (574 ft) above the Paiva River.

Encourage your kids to test their courage by crossing the bridge (or maybe you will!). If heights aren’t their thing, no worries – the park is still a fantastic destination. Beneath the bridge lies the Passadiços de Paiva, an 8km (5.5mi) trail of wooden walkways along the Paiva River, offering a picturesque hike with plenty of stairs, perfect for energetic families.

Embark on a coastal road trip from north to south Portugal

Suitable for all ages

Renting a caravan for a family road trip across Portugal is an excellent way to discover this stunning country. With its compact size, quiet roads, breathtaking views, and relative safety, it's a perfect adventure. Parents will appreciate the ease of having snacks and nap spots on hand, while older kids will enjoy the thrill of exploring nature.

While wild camping is now banned in Portugal, a vast network of affordable campsites is available, offering essential amenities – many even feature playgrounds and cafes. Amenities and prices vary: for instance, Peniche's municipal campground provides basic facilities at an unbeatable rate, whereas Salema Eco-Camp in the Algarve features a massive pirate-ship playground, multiple dining options, and live music nights, justifying its higher cost.

Journey to the edge of the world at Sagres & the Costa Vicentina

Ideal for kids, tweens & teens

Historically, the southwest tip of Portugal was seen as the end of the continent and the civilized world. Today, it remains remote, but it’s a fantastic destination for active families looking to enjoy the outdoors during their holidays.

In Sagres, you’ll discover Martinal resorts, among the most family-friendly accommodations in the country. Kick off your day with a surf lesson from the Algarve Surf School, then return to town for delicious pizza at Arte Bianca Pizzaria, topped off with ice cream from Alice Gelato. After a relaxing afternoon, enjoy live music in the evening at the Laundry Lounge or Three Little Birds, and get some rest for another exciting day ahead.

Enjoy an art-filled afternoon at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Ideal for babies, toddlers, tweens & teens

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum houses one of the world's most significant private art collections, featuring works from Ancient Egypt to the early 20th century. Beyond its artistic value, the Gulbenkian is an excellent spot for an afternoon with kids. This art-filled sanctuary in the heart of Lisbon boasts lovely, sprawling gardens where children can play while adults relax in the sun, surrounded by koi ponds and friendly ducks. The onsite café offers simple, delicious meals that cater to picky eaters without breaking the bank, making it a great choice for culturally inclined parents with little ones or families with creative tweens and teens.

Let your worries drift away in Tavira & the East Algarve

Ideal for babies & toddlers

The East Algarve is famous for its serene, warm beaches with minimal waves and an abundance of fresh, affordable seafood to satisfy everyone’s appetites. Choose to stay in Tavira for a livelier atmosphere or Cacela Velha for a peaceful retreat, then catch a small boat to cross the lagoon where endless stretches of white sand beaches await. Just remember to bring a beach umbrella, plenty of water, and snacks!

When you’ve soaked up enough sun, take a day trip to the nearby Rio Formosa Wetlands Natural Park for bird and wildlife watching. Simply hop on one of the small ferries that operate between the islands (Ilha do Farol is particularly popular). For just a few euros, your kids can enjoy the boat ride and scenic views, and you can disembark at any island for beach time, snacks, or ice cream.

Discover more fantastic experiences for kids in Portugal

Stargaze on a hike

For mountain hiking, pristine lakes, traditional cuisine, and winter skiing, visit Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela.

Journey into history

Discover Roman ruins, vibrant city life, and a gateway to the Alentejo countryside in Évora.

Go cave exploring

Uncover underground caverns with your family at Grutas de Mira de Aire.

Essential tips for family travel in Portugal

Public transport or driving?

In urban areas, public transport is convenient and affordable, with plenty of rideshare and taxi options available for any gaps. However, outside the cities, you'll need a car to reach the best national parks and stunning beaches – but don’t worry, driving in this small, safe country is nearly hassle-free.

Bring plenty of layers

Portugal features a mix of chilly mornings and evenings with warm sunny days. To keep your little ones cozy, pack layers they can easily remove as temperatures rise or put on as the sun goes down. A spacious day bag will help carry everything you need.