Why Portugal is a good place to travel with the whole family
Travelling with children in Portugal is like embarking on a magical adventure that will enchant the whole family! We all know that travelling with children brings some concerns and needs, from the type of accommodation, food, safety, and, of course, suitable activities and attractions for the little ones.
Here are some tips and destinations that will make your family trip experience absolutely unforgettable.
Fairy Tales in Sintra
Get ready to step into a world of fairy tales as you explore the enchanting palaces and castles of Sintra, with their vibrant interiors and peculiar architecture. Let your little ones feel like true princes and princesses as they venture through the Parque and Palácio da Pena and the Castelo dos Mouros. Children of all ages can enjoy the park visit, but please note that certain areas of the palace may not be suitable for strollers or very young children. Children up to the age of 5 can enter for free.
The Toy Museum is another delightful attraction in Sintra, certain to enchant children. The museum houses an impressive collection of toys from various eras, including dolls, cars, games, and much more. Kids can delve into the history of toys and be captivated by the exhibitions. It’s suitable for children of all ages. For more information, please refer to the Parques de Sintra website.
Family adventures for Nature lovers
Family Adventures in Peneda-Gerês National Park
If your little ones are adventurers, Peneda-Gerês National Park is the perfect place for family nature exploration. Take on the trails, choosing shorter and less steep routes with captivating landscapes to keep the children active. Dive into crystal-clear waterfalls, and discover the rich fauna and flora that characterise this breathtaking region. Fun is guaranteed for all ages!
Badoca Park in Alentejo
Picture a wild park where fun is guaranteed! Badoca Parque, located in Vila Nova de Santo André in the coastal Alentejo, is like stepping into a world full of exotic animals and thrilling experiences that will make children’s hearts pound with joy! At Badoca Park, the animals are in their natural habitats, without being confined to cages, creating a sense of true freedom and harmony between species.
Here, children have the opportunity to get up close to majestic creatures, from elegant giraffes to majestic lions. And that’s not all – they can explore different areas of the park on an exciting safari, feeling like true jungle explorers! But wait, there’s more! Badoca Park offers super fun activities that will challenge the curious minds of children! Interactive workshops, animal presentations, and even a fantastic birds of prey show to showcase their skills in the skies! What’s more, the facilities are safe and welcoming, with picnic areas and resting spots, so families can enjoy unforgettable moments together.
So, if you’re looking for a day filled with adventure, laughter, and learning, Badoca Park is the perfect place! Come and explore the wild world of Alentejo, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to roar with excitement and experience a unique family adventure! For more information about the Park, visit the official website.
Quinta Pedagógica dos Olivais – Living the farm life in the heart of the city
Located in Lisbon, the Quinta Pedagógica dos Olivais brings the countryside to the city, offering the perfect opportunity for children to experience rural life, interact with animals, and explore Portugal’s rural traditions. Covering about 2 hectares, the farm receives around 1500 visitors daily, allowing them to (re)live rural traditions from all over the country. At Quinta Pedagógica dos Olivais, children can meet a diverse array of animals, from parakeets, pheasants, chickens, and peacocks to sheep, pigs, donkeys, and even a black swan. Apart from meeting the animals, children can explore the vegetable garden and orchard, discover the scents of aromatic herbs in the garden, and learn from the stories portrayed by beautiful tiles.
A top-ranked attraction among families, Quinta Pedagógica dos Olivais offers free admission and a variety of family activities, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for kids to cherish.
Enchanting Óbidos – Where Magic Comes Alive
Take your family on a journey back in time to the charming village of Óbidos. With its mediaeval walls and cobbled streets, Óbidos feels like a place straight out of a storybook, making it an excellent choice for a family visit. Stroll through the narrow alleys, savour the famous “ginjinha” (a traditional drink), and if you’re lucky, partake in an authentic mediaeval festival held every summer. If you and your children are chocolate enthusiasts, you can also plan your visit during the International Chocolate Festival, a delightful experience that will captivate everyone!
“Portugal dos Pequeninos” in Coimbra
A must-stop for families visiting Portugal is “Portugal dos Pequeninos” in Coimbra, the first capital of the Kingdom of Portugal, it is situated in the central region of the country and is the third-largest city in Portugal. This charming theme park is a miniature world, where children can explore scaled-down replicas of Portuguese monuments and regional villages. They’ll feel like adventurers in a fairy tale land, while parents become authentic giants! Besides the park itself, visitors can also explore the Costume Museum and other temporary exhibitions held throughout the year. Children up to 2 years old can enter for free (see more at the Portugal dos Pequeninos website).
Exploring History in Lisbon
Lisbon, we couldn’t forget to mention the capital of Portugal, as it’s an incredible destination to explore with children. You can start by visiting the Lisbon Zoo, where over 300 species of animals await your visit, and don’t miss the fabulous dolphin show that will leave the kids in awe. Also, make sure to visit the Lisbon Oceanario, where they can admire a variety of marine species, and enjoy leisurely strolls in the Park of Nations. Don’t miss the opportunity to ride the iconic tram and taste the famous “Pastéis de Belém”. Lisbon is a city that blends history, culture, and fun for the whole family!
Family Fun Beaches
Portugal is renowned for its stunning beaches, and many of them are perfect for families, with their large sandy shores and calm, crystal-clear waters. Praia da Rocha is one of the most popular beaches in the Algarve, offering a vast stretch of golden sand. It is known for its calm and shallow waters, perfect for children to play in. The beach also provides a range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, and recreational areas. Another gem in the Algarve is Praia do Carvoeiro, a small and picturesque beach nestled in a cove. Surrounded by cliffs, it is shielded from strong winds and offers safe and calm waters for kids. The adjacent village has a welcoming atmosphere, with shops, restaurants, and family-friendly activities.
Heading to Alentejo, you’ll find Praia da Comporta, a beach with white sands and clear waters. It’s a tranquil and family-friendly beach, offering plenty of space for children to run and play. The area is also known for its natural dunes and breathtaking landscapes.
And though we could list countless more beaches, that would make for another article, as Portugal boasts an abundance of them. So, build sandcastles, take a dip in the sea, and enjoy the Portuguese sun. Ah, and don’t forget the sunscreen, even more important when travelling with children!
Final thoughts
Travelling with children is always a challenge, so it’s essential to note that the recommended age can vary depending on each child’s individual characteristics and interests. Remember that certain attractions may have age restrictions or require adult supervision. We recommend that you always check the specific information for each location, so you can make the best decisions and avoid frowns from the little ones.
Get ready for an adventure full of fun and discoveries in Portugal! With so many charming options, your family will fall in love with the destinations and create memories that will be cherished for generations. Come and enjoy the magic, history, and Portuguese hospitality. Portugal awaits you with open arms!
If you haven’t packed your bags for the family trip yet, don’t miss reading our article about the essential items that you should never forget: “Top 10 essential items you can’t forget in children’s travel luggage (Generation Alpha)”.