Weather of Arabia - Portugal is one of the most family-friendly countries in Europe. Children are an integral part of everyday life and are happily welcomed anywhere, from museums and restaurants to squares and theatres. The cities abound with parks and playgrounds, while the rest of the country is a perfectly preserved natural paradise.
With 300 days of sunshine a year and the mildest weather on the Old Continent, Portugal is an ideal destination for family adventures. The only part you'll struggle with is choosing where you want to go! Read on to know more about the best destinations to travel to Portugal with your kids.
The family takes an important place in Portuguese society, which is why they are well treated throughout the country. Parents with young children or pregnant people are given priority in supermarket and public transport lines, and you won't be subjected to any sidelong breast-feeding looks in public. Even in Lisbon, teens and girls can take public transportation on their own, which is a nod to the safety of the cities.
Perhaps the only drawback for parents is the sidewalks, which, thanks to the steep slopes and dips and narrow size, are far from being stroller-friendly or for small children. However, it's all offset by a family-focused local culture that welcomes you to bring your children - be they babies, toddlers or teens - anywhere.
Imagine taking your family for surfing lessons or coastal excursions along the Costa Vicentina; Coastal road trips or river cruises, vineyard tours and horseback riding with your kids by your side. While the options are endless, here are some of the coolest experiences you can have in Portugal with your family.
Best for kids and teens
In the vicinity of Porto in the UNESCO World Geopark Arauca perches the world's longest suspension footbridge, a 516-meter (1,693-foot) long bridge that sits 175 meters (574 feet) above the Paiva River.
Challenge your kids to see if they're brave enough to cross - or if you are! — but don't worry even if someone has a fear of heights, the park is still worth the trip. Below the bridge, you'll find Pasadesos de Paiva, an 8-kilometre (5.5 mi) wooden path that follows the Paiva River, providing a beautiful course though lots of grades that is safe and fun for families with kids burning energy.
Best for all ages
Renting a caravan to take a road tour in Portugal with your family is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful land. The country is small, the roads are empty, the scenery is beautiful, and it is relatively safe. If you have young children, the convenience of snacks and naps close by can't be beat; While older kids will love the adventure and instant access to nature.
Wild camping is not allowed in Portugal anymore, but there is a large network of budget camping sites that cater for the basic needs you might need – and many have a playground and a café on site. Prices and amenities vary: For example, Peniche Municipal Camp has standard amenities, an ideal location, and a surprisingly low price, while Salema Eco-Camp in the Algarve, which features a huge pirate ship playground, several restaurants, and live music nights, is worth the higher price.
Best for kids and teens
Previously, the southwestern corner of Portugal was considered the end of the continent, and thus the end of the civil world. These days, it's still a long way off, but it's definitely a great area for active families who want to spend their holidays outdoors.
In Sagres, you'll find Martinal Resorts, one of the most family-friendly hotels in the country. Start the day with a surfing lesson with the Algarve Surf School, then head back to town for exceptional pizza at Arte Bianca Pizzaria, followed by ice cream at Alice Gelato. On a quiet afternoon, check out some live music in the evening at the Lounge Laundry or Three Little Birds, before going to bed early so you can do everything again.
Best for babies, toddlers and teens
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is one of the most important private collections of art in the world. It includes many works from ancient Egypt to the beginning of the 20th century, but in addition to its artistic importance, Gulbenkian is an ideal place to spend some time with the kids in the afternoon. This art-filled oasis in the middle of Lisbon has picturesque, rolling gardens where children play while adults relax in the sun, surrounded by ponds of koi fish and some friendly ducks. The on-site café serves simple, delicious food that's easy to spot and for your wallet. Perfect for parents with an interest in culture and young children, or families with teens and young adults who love the arts.
The best place for young children and babies
The east of the Portuguese island is famous for its calm and warm beaches, which have almost no waves, and for the fresh and cheap fish that fills everyone's stomach. Stay in Tavira for more action, or Casela Vella to get away from the crowds, then hop on a small boat to cross the lagoon where endless white sandy beaches await – just don't forget your beach umbrella and enough water and snacks.
When you get bored of the sun, opt for a day trip to the nearby Rio Formosa Wetland Natural Park to spot birds and wildlife. Just hop on one of the little ferries that connect the islands (Isle du Farol is a favourite). For just a few euros, the kids can enjoy the boat ride and watch, and you can drop off at any of the islands to spend some time on the beach or eat snacks or ice cream.
Hiking among the stars
For mountain walks, clear lakes, traditional food and skiing in winter, head to Parque Naturale da Serra da Estrela.
Roman ruins, the idyllic atmosphere of the city and the gateway to the Alentejo countryside of Évora.
Explore subterranean caves with the family at Grotas de Mira de Aire.
Public transportation versus driving
In the cities, public transport is easy and cheap, and there are plenty of ride-hailing and taxi drivers to make up for any shortfalls. Outside of the cities, you'll need a car to visit the best national parks and most impressive beaches - but don't worry, driving in this small and safe country is almost stress-free.
Portugal is a cool country with warm sunshine, which means that the days are hot but the nights and mornings can be very cold. To keep your kids comfortable, you'll need to pack easy clothes that the kids can take off when the day gets warmer or wear when the sun starts to go down. Consider an extra large day bag to carry it all.
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