Portugal with Kids: My Portugal Family Travel Guide

Last Updated on February 4, 2025

From getting lost in magical castles to riding trams and beach hopping, there are so many things to do in Portugal with kids. Here’s my comprehensive guide to help you plan a Portugal family trip.

Portugal is a fantastic travel destination for kids: with its fairytale castles, magical cobbled streets, golden beaches, and winding vineyard-studded valleys. Plus, family-oriented Portugal is incredibly welcoming to families with little ones (even in bars at midnight!). Most restaurants serve kid menus and offer high chairs; and there are plenty of museums and fun parks designed for kids. The great infrastructure in the country also means it’s easy to get around and explore without worrying for your kids’ safety. 

Having lived in Spain for many years, we’ve made many trips to Portugal, from the southern beaches of Algarve to the charismatic city of Porto in the north. Last summer, we returned to explore more of Portugal with our daughter and she enjoyed many of the things that we love about this country too: from the fresh seafood to the eternal sunshine and rich history. For those planning to travel Portugal with kids, I’m sharing details of our trip to help you plan your Portugal family trip.

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My Guide to Traveling Portugal with Kids

How to Get to Portugal

Lisbon Airport (LIS) is the largest and busiest in the country. It is the main gateway into the country, catering to a range of international connections. Porto Airport (OPO) and Faro Airport (FAO) are also popular entry points, especially for exploring northern Portugal and the Algarve region, respectively. 

These three airports are well connected to other cities in Europe, like Madrid, London, and Rome. Carriers like Ryanair offer fares as low as $50 for flights each way. You can also drive if you’re coming from Spain. We drove from Madrid to Porto and it was just a 5.5-hour drive (though we stopped over for a night in Viseu).

Flights from the US aren’t overly expensive. You can find direct flights from New York to Lisbon for as low as $700 return, especially in January or February.

Search for flights to Lisbon here.

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When to Travel Portugal with Kids

The best time to visit Portugal is either Spring (April to June) or Autumn (September to October). These shoulder seasons provide the perfect mix of good weather, fewer tourists, and vibrant cultural events. 

Spring is ideal for outdoor activities with kids, thanks to mild temperatures and sunny weather. You’ll find vibrant wildflowers in the south. This season also features festivals like Holy Week in Lisbon. However, if you’re planning your trip near the Holy Week festivities, we recommend you book weeks ahead of your trip. 

Summer (July–August) is the high season in Portugal, bringing big crowds, lots of families and high hotel prices, particularly to coastal towns in the Algarve. While summers don’t get nearly as hot as in Spain, you’ll still need an air-conditioned hotel.

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How Long to Travel Portugal with Kids?

Portugal is a diverse country with each region offering different cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. It’s one of those countries where you can go for weeks without really exhausting all there’s to do. I’ve been to Portugal so many times but I still haven’t seen everything.

If you’re visiting Portugal for the first time, I recommend spending at least a week in Portugal. It’s plenty of time to visit famous spots like Lisbon and Porto. You’ll also get to see coastal towns in Algarve like Faro and Olhão. Read my recommendations for a 7-day Portugal itinerary for details.

Portugal is becoming more and more popular with digital nomads and expats, thanks to its ease of residency, beautiful weather, exceptional cuisine, and idyllic beaches. If you’re traveling Portugal with kids with the idea of moving there, make sure to research on which visa to obtain etc. For more detailed information about the benefits of Portuguese citizenship and how to obtain it, check out this guide to getting a Portuguese passport.

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The Ultimate 1-Week Portugal Itinerary

• Day 1: Faro
• Day 2: Olhão
• Day 3: Lagos
• Days 4-5: Lisbon
• Day 6: Porto
• Day 7: Peneda-Gerês National Park
• Day 8: Return to Faro and Fly home

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Getting Around Portugal with Kids

By Car Rental

Portuguese roads are excellent since a vast network of toll roads was built a few years ago. Most travelers can drive using their local driving license, provided they aren’t planning to stay longer than 6 months. To drive in Portugal, you must be over 18 years and to rent a car, you must be 21 and over.

Car rental in Portugal is extremely affordable and driving is the easiest way to explore Portugal with kids. Most car rental agencies provide booster seats or baby car seats at an additional cost. And you won’t have to worry about lugging your baggage everywhere and your kids not being entertained.

You can find bargains, like this 7-day Faro car rental deal costs under 50 euros! We rented a Tesla on our recent trip and it was not too expensive. Unfortunately, the toll fees do add up. They can cost as much as €35 per day depending on where you’re traveling. For instance, if you take the toll road between Algarve and Lisbon, you’ll pay around €20.

Search for car rentals in Faro here!

By Train

Train travel in Portugal is comfortable, fast, reliable, and affordable. But if you want to explore the backroads, trains might not get you where you want to go. The main train line in Portugal runs from the north all the way down to the Algarve in the south with the main stops being Porto, Lisbon, and Faro. The national rail company is Comboios de Portugal. You can find all the schedules and train fares on their website.

The cost of a train ticket varies depending on route and class. For instance, a one-way ticket from Lisbon to Porto in tourist class on Alfa Pendular costs around €35. All children under the age of 4 travel for free while those between 4 and 12 go for half-price. If you, the parents are below the age of 25, you’ll also receive a 25% discount.

If you plan to travel across the country by train, we recommend you purchase the Portugal Rail Pass. It’s much cheaper than paying with cash. For instance, a 7-day train pass costs around €129 and you get to travel across the country at that prepaid amount. It’s a good deal!

By Bus

Traveling Portugal by bus is an excellent option for exploring smaller towns and villages, especially those away from the coast that are not served by the rail network. While buses are slower than trains, they are often more affordable and provide extensive coverage through a dense network run by various regional companies. Rede Expressos and Rodonorte are among the largest operators in the country.

In southern Portugal, Vamus Algarve is the best option for exploring the Algarve region. The cost of a bus ticket varies depending on the route and operator. For instance, a one-way ticket on the Rodoviária de Lisboa route costs from €1 and €4.80 if purchased on the bus.

Bus tickets can also be bought from kiosks and at metro machines. If it’s a one-off trip to an attraction then you can go ahead and pay with cash. However, if you’re planning on using the bus for days, it might be cheaper to acquire the Andante Tour ticket. It costs €15 and is valid for up to 72 hours after first use.

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Portugal with Kids: Which Ages Would Enjoy it Most?

Portugal is a fantastic destination for kids of all ages, but children between 5 and 12 are likely to enjoy it the most. The country offers a wealth of family-friendly activities, from exploring castles in Sintra to visiting the charming coastal towns. Portugal’s beaches are perfect for play, and cities are packed with parks, playgrounds, and kid-focused museums.

You’ll also find baby-changing facilities, highchairs, and kids’ menus at most restaurants, making outings stress-free. Portuguese people are exceptionally warm and welcoming to families. I have traveled with my daughter to several countries but our time in Portugal was one of the happiest I have seen her.

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Travel Portugal Independently Vs. on a Tour?

Even if you’re not a seasoned traveler, Portugal is super easy to navigate on your own. Portugal has excellent infrastructure, an efficient transport system, and an abundance of kid-friendly amenities, so it should be easy to travel independently with your kid in tow. Most people speak English and are more than willing to help.

For those traveling Portugal with little kids, I recommend traveling slowly and not squeezing in too much to your Portugal itinerary. It’ll be best to book 5-7 nights at Lisbon, then another 5-7 nights in Porto, and then take guided walking tours or day trips from there. With less moving around, you’ll find less stressful and your kids will enjoy it more.

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Is it Safe to Travel Portugal with Kids?

Yes, Portugal is absolutely safe to travel with kids and is widely regarded as a family-friendly destination. With its ranking as the 7th safest country on the Global Peace Index, you can feel at ease exploring the country. Portugal has a low overall crime rate, with violent crime being rare according to most advisories.

However, pickpocketing and bag-snatching has been reported in some crime reports. These acts are quite common on public transportation like trains and buses. Also, avoid leaving valuables or luggage in your car to prevent break-ins. Always keep your kids close and maybe get them to wear an Airtag just in case they get lost.

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How to Get Travel Insurance for Kids

Regardless of how long you are traveling in Portugal, I recommend getting travel insurance before your trip. You’ll be covered in case of an accident, loss of baggage, or flight delay/cancellation.

Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan, which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.

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Do You Need to Speak Portuguese to Travel Portugal with Kids?

English is widely spoken in Portugal; in fact, the country ranks in the top 10 according to the EF English Proficiency Index. So, you can easily travel independently and without worrying about getting lost. I traveled across the country and was able to communicate with locals without any issues.

Learning some Portuguese can help you get around a lot easier and connect more with locals. Here are some useful words to learn:

• Olá = Hello
• Como está indo? = How’s it going?
• Bom dia = Good morning
• Boa noite = Good evening/good night
• Por favor = Please
• Obrigada (if you are female), obrigado (if you are male) = Thank you

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Where to Stay in Portugal with Kids

Porto: Pensão Favorita

This charming guesthouse in Porto is ideal for families seeking comfort and convenience. The spacious suites cater to various needs, offering double and triple options. One of the triple suites even features a small dining room, perfect for enjoying a relaxed afternoon snack after exploring the city. The guesthouse also boasts a serene garden at the back, allowing your little one to play when in between trips. Check out the rates here.

Faro: Vila Vita Parc

Vila Vita Parc is a rare gem among resorts, seamlessly blending family-friendly amenities with a tranquil, private atmosphere. The resort is especially appealing to families, featuring a Kids’ Club, playground, and a crèche for babies as young as six months. Six pools and expansive green spaces provide plenty of room for relaxation and exploration, while local birdlife adds a touch of nature’s magic. Check out the rates here.

Lisbon: Castle Inn Lisbon

Located just a 6-minute walk from Sao Cristovao and Sao Lourenco Church, this charming property provides easy access to local landmarks and activities like hiking. The apartments are thoughtfully equipped with family-friendly amenities, including music for children, DVDs, and books, ensuring young travelers stay entertained. Each unit features a mini-kitchen with a refrigerator, cooktop, and kitchenware, ideal for preparing meals. Check out the rates here.

Alentejo: Craveiral Farmhouse

Craveiral Farmhouse is a dream destination for families traveling with kids, offering a village-like retreat where relaxation and adventure blend seamlessly. The whitewashed houses, clustered around sunny courtyards, are perfect for families. With simple wooden terraces for enjoying sunsets and slate kitchens stocked with fresh eggs, this is the perfect retreat after a day of exploring Alentejo. Check out the rates here.

Lagos: Aqualuz Lagos By The Editory

This chic hotel is an excellent choice for a family-friendly stay in southern Lagos. Located just 1.6 km from the picturesque Praia do Canavial Beach, the property ensures easy access to stunning coastal spots. Families will appreciate the on-site amenities, including a library for quiet moments, a golf court for some active fun, and relaxing loungers by the pool. Check out the rates here.

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Things to Do in Portugal with Kids

Visit Pena Palace in Sintra

Pena Palace in Sintra is a fairy tale in every sense of the word. Known as one of the most colorful castles in the world, this vibrant masterpiece feels like a real-life Disney castle, sparking imagination at every turn. Kids will love exploring the palace’s whimsical architecture, its nooks and crannies, and the surrounding park that invites mystery and discovery.

The lush greenery of the park, often shrouded in Sintra’s enchanting mist, creates a magical setting that perfectly complements the palace’s charm. To make the most of your visit, plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. The palace charges €20 for adults and €18 for kids 6-18 years. You may also want to consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the palace’s rich history.

Head to the Grutas de Mira de Aire Caves

If your little one loves Indiana Jones, this adventure will surely put a smile on their face. You’ll descend 110 meters below the surface to explore over 600 meters of stunning underground chambers, illuminated in a way that feels almost magical. The 45-minute guided tour takes you through these impressive caves, culminating in a cavern with a serene lake and a playful fountain display.

Best of all, there’s no need to worry about climbing back up—an elevator conveniently returns you to the ground level. Located 14 kilometers southeast of Porto de Mós, the site also features a children’s zoo and an aquapark. The caves charge an admission of €8.70 for visitors 12 years and above. Kids ages 5-11 pay €5.20 while kids below 5 enter for free. If you don’t have transport, organized tours from Lisbon to Grutas de Mira de Aire Caves are available, offering convenient travel and guided visits.

Ride Lisbon’s Tram 28 (Elétrico 28)

If there’s one thing that I’ve learned from traveling with my daughter, it’s that peculiar transportation can double as an adventure. Lisbon’s iconic Tram 28 was no exception. Known as Elétrico 28, this beloved tram line offers an unforgettable ride through the city’s historic neighborhoods.

Starting at Martim Moniz and ending in Campo de Ourique, the tram winds through Graça, Alfama, and Baixa, with breathtaking views of Lisbon’s hills and squares. Along the way, kids will delight in spotting landmarks such as the Lisbon Cathedral, St. George’s Castle, and the picturesque Miradouro Largo Portas do Sol.

The tram’s creaky wooden interior and tight turns through narrow streets add to the charm, creating a journey that’s as much about the ride as it is about the sights. The tickets go for €3 and you can buy them from different kiosk in Lisbon or on the tram. Alternatively, to save time and guarantee entry, you can purchase the Tram 28 entry ticket and audio guide with a 24-hour pass.

Check Out the Beaches in Algarve

Portugal’s Algarve region is home to over 100 beaches, making it a hit with kids. Found in the southernmost part of the country, Algarve has some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. Here, you’ll find everything from calm, family-friendly shores to dramatic, wave-pounded ocean-fronts.

We specifically loved Praia da Marinha in Lagoa. It is a standout family-friendly beach with clear, shallow waters perfect for children to splash around in. Surrounded by stunning golden cliffs, this beach is an ideal spot for family lounging or a memorable sunset stroll.

The best way to get to Praia da Marinha is by hiking the scenic cliff-top trail from Carvoeiro, although there’s also a small parking lot for those driving. Renting sun loungers and umbrellas is available during the summer, costing around €10-€15 per day. The Algarve region also features secluded coves and long, undeveloped islands, ensuring plenty of peaceful, remote getaways away from the summer crowds.

Visit the Gardens of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra

The gardens of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra are a huge hit for families with kids. This enchanting estate offers a magical blend of history, nature, and adventure that will captivate young and curious minds. If there’s a castle in Sintra that evokes a whimsical feel, this is it.

The gardens are a labyrinth of wonders, featuring grottoes, underground tunnels, and the iconic Initiation Well. Kids will love wandering through the winding pathways of the Labyrinth and climbing the central tower for breathtaking views of the estate. The serene lakes, surrounded by lush vegetation and rock formations, add to the magical ambiance and make for perfect family photo shoots.

To reach the castle, take the A16 motorway and follow the road signage to the castle. The castle is open everyday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. but closes at 6 p.m. in the winter months. It charges an admission of €15 for adults while kids under 5 enter for free. Consider one of these available tours and tickets for Quinta da Regaleira.

Explore Obidos

A small medieval town just an hour north of Lisbon, Óbidos is an all-in-one adventure for families. We visited Óbidos on our way from Porto to Sintra and we were glad we didn’t skip it. Nominated as a UNESCO Heritage Site, this charming fortress town feels like a step back in time with its beautifully preserved history and quintessential medieval charm.

The main entrance to the city, a breathtaking archway adorned with blue ceramic Azulejos tiles, welcomes you the whimsical ancient city. Strolling along the main street toward the castle, we discovered shops selling handmade crafts and tempting pastries and cakes. For my daughter, walking the old city walls was an unforgettable adventure. We were treated to panoramic views of the town and countryside.

However, it’s worth noting that the walls have no railings on one side, so stay close to your child or better yet hold their hand. There’s no admission fee to visit Óbidos, so it’s one of the best free things to do in Portugal. However, you can explore Óbidos with one of these guided tours.

Head to Mata Nacional do Buçaco in Luso

For an off-the-beaten-path family adventure head to Mata Nacional do Buçaco in Luso, Central Portugal. This enchanting forest, sprawling out from the majestic Palácio do Buçaco, is a treasure trove of excitement for kids. Here, you’ll find crumbling chapels, bubbling fountains, serene ponds, and exotic trees around every corner.

Pack a picnic and explore well-marked trails leading to the lush Vale dos Fetos (Valley of the Ferns). Another must-see is the Via Sacra trail, which winds past a series of chapels up to Cruz Alta, a hilltop cross with stunning views. Entry is free for walkers and cyclists, while cars pay €7 and motorhomes €15.

See Colorful Houses in Costa Nova

Take your kids to Praia da Costa Nova, a charming coastal village in Portugal’s Aveiro region, and prepare to be amazed. We stumbled upon this picturesque town on our way to Porto, and it felt like stepping into a fairytale. The small town is famed for its iconic colorful striped houses dubbed Palheiros da Costa Nova by locals.

Walking between these whimsical, super Instagrammable buildings is a unique experience unlike anywhere else in Portugal—or the world! If you’re a family that loves to take cool pictures for the socials, this is the place to do so.

Families will also love the laid-back vibe and the beautiful beach. Many tourists flock the town in the summer to surf, enjoy the beach, and of course take pictures of the striped houses. However, we visited the town in the off-season and it was quite calm. I recommend taking the Costa Nova Tour to see the famous “Stripe Houses.”

Visit the Seafood Market in Costa Nova

The fish market in Costa Nova is a delightful adventure, especially for those who love food markets as much as I do. This budding food market had been on my bucket list for some time, and it lived up to the excitement. The market is divided into three areas: the raw fish market, the vegetable and bakery market, and the stew market.

The stew market was particularly fascinating because we got to enjoy seafood products freshly cooked right in the market. My daughter is a picky eater but she loved the sardines. My husband and I had percebes (gooseneck barnacles), a beloved local specialty. The section is open on select days in the off-season but opens every day during the high season.

Explore Cais de Ribeira in Porto at Night

One of the best parts of any trip for my daughter is being able to stay up late, and she especially loves exploring new places at night! Our favorite evening adventure in Portugal was wandering through the Cais da Ribeira waterfront area in Porto. This lively district by the river, with its stunning views of the Luís I Bridge, comes alive at night with a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.

The charm of Cais da Ribeira is undeniable, offering a mix of twinkling lights reflecting off the water, talented street performers, and delicious dining options. With plenty of nice family-friendly restaurants, it was the perfect spot for us to soak in the magic of Porto. My daughter adored the street acts, and we all agreed the energy here made it a highlight of our trip!

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What to Eat in Portugal with Kids

Portuguese cuisine is a delightful fusion of rich flavors influenced by the country’s coastal location, colonial past, and diverse regional traditions. Seafood plays a central role, with dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) and sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines) being staples. Also, sweet treats like pastéis de nata (custard tarts) offer a delicious end to any meal. These were my daughter’s favorites on our trip. Here are some traditional Portuguese dishes kids will love:

• Sardinhas Assadas – These are a popular dish that most kids can’t resist. It is essentially charcoal grilled sardines. If your kids like fish then they will enjoy this!
• Bacalhau – This is another beloved treat and the National dish of Portugal. It is dried salted cod and can be served in many different ways. Bacalhau consists of boiled cod, vegetables, and a boiled egg, topped with olive oil.
• Frango a Piri Piri – It is a delicious but spicy dish. It is roast chicken spiced with ground piri piri peppers, often served with rice and French fries. My daughter loves spicy food and this was one of her favorite dishes.
• Pastais de Nata – It’s a Portuguese egg custard tart pastry, often dusted with cinnamon and sugar. We found this in Belem in Lisbon and loved the attention to detail. Most pastry shops in the city follow a recipe from the 1800s.
• Caldeirada – It’s a Portuguese fish stew served with a variety of fish like shellfish, potatoes, and vegetables. It varies town to town, so you can have different variations when you visit the coastal towns in Algarve.

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How to Keep Your Kids Healthy in Portugal

Portugal, in general, has a high level of food hygiene regardless of where you go. Tap water is safe to drink, and food markets across Portugal offer fresh, locally sourced ingredients, which are generally safe for children. However, always use your judgment when purchasing food, especially if your child has dietary restrictions or allergies.

Portugal’s public healthcare system (Serviço Nacional de Saúde – SNS) is of high quality and is one of the best in the world. While healthcare is very accessible, be aware that waiting times in public hospitals can be longer for certain treatments.

There are no required vaccines to enter the country but kids are advised to have your polio and tetanus vaccines in order. If you like to be as safe as possible, having the Typhoid and Hepatitis A (and even Hepatitis B) vaccines are recommended.

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How to Stay Connected in Portugal with Kids

To stay connected in Portugal, I recommend getting an eSIM before arrival or a local SIM card at the airport upon arrival. We always buy our eSIM on Airalo for Portugal and it has worked really well on every trip. We had unlimited internet data, with reception even in the small cities. Get your eSIM here.

We minimize the time our daughter spends on devices at home and only give her access to the iPad on long drives and during flights. WiFi is easily available in public spaces in Lisbon and Porto (and every hotel has it), so you can easily download shows/books for offline use before your trip.

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Cost of Travel in Portugal with Children

Portugal is one of the more affordable destinations in Europe. Expect reasonable daily expenses, especially when you venture outside major cities and tourist hubs. For a typical 7-day Portugal trip, including accommodation, meals, local transportation, and sightseeing, you can expect to spend around $1,400 (€1,300) for a single person.

That’s a daily average of around €50 to €75, depending on your preferences and lifestyle. A standard hotel room in a 4-star hotel averages €103 per night, with 3-star hotels costing around €88 per night.

Dining is affordable, with meals costing between €8-12, while a dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant may range from €35-50. A traditional prato do dia (dish of the day) at a typical Portuguese restaurant is priced around €7.50.

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What to Pack for a Portugal Family Trip

• Kids’ hiking shoes
• Kids’ sandals or Keen water shoes
• Kids’ wide-rimmed hat
• Kids’ down jacket
• Kids’ fleece
• Kids’ zip-off convertible pants
• Long-sleeved pajamas to protect from mosquitos
• Kids’ underwear
• Kids swimsuit
• Kids’ breathable socks
• Kids’ polarized sunglasses with strap
• SPF 50 Sunscreen
• Insect repellant with DEET
• World travel kit stocked with medication 
• Head torch or flashlight
• Kids’ binoculars
• Kids digital camera
• Canon EOS 60D camera
• RAVPower portable power bank
• 70-300mm Tamron lens
• International plug converter
• iPad or Kindle with headphones for long car rides

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Practical Tips for Traveling Portugal with Kids

• When planning your Portugal itinerary, be sure to factor in some downtime and days where you do nothing. The dry weather and late meal times can take some getting used to.
• Make sure the children are up to date with routine vaccinations, and discuss possible travel vaccines well before departure, as some are not suitable for children aged less than a year. 
• Remember to pack rehydration powder in case your child vomits or experiences diarrhea. In Portugal’s often-searing summers, you’ll need to be extra careful with heat exhaustion and dehydration. 
• Portugal has a very rich culinary culture; take the opportunity to introduce your kids to Portuguese food and let them try all kinds of dishes. Forget about McDonalds or Pizza Hut, your kids will love typical Portuguese dishes like Pastais de Nata and Frango a Piri Piri.

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Enjoy Your Trip to Portugal with Kids!

Thank you for reading this far! Portugal is a beautiful country that you and your little ones will love. It’s a country that blends affordability, rich cuisine, and diverse outdoors. I hope this guide has helped you to plan your Portugal family trip. Feel free to leave me any questions or comments you may have below.

Here are more of my articles on Portugal and traveling with kids to help you with your trip planning:

• 7-day Portugal itinerary
• Weekend in Porto
• Spain with kids
• Santorini with kids
• Ski Slovakia with kids
• Kufsteinerland with kids
• Travel Gifts for kids

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

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