These kids-friendly Portuguese cities are irresistible!

Traveling with kids is anything but compromising on fun, even if city destinations are in your plans. And Portugal proves it! This sunny gem is packed with exciting urban adventures perfect for families. Picture your kids’ faces – and yours too! – lighting up as they explore magical castles, ride vintage trams, take boat trips to spot dolphins, or splash around on golden beaches. Add to that a laid-back vibe, incredibly welcoming locals, warm weather, and food that even the pickiest eaters will love. It’s no wonder so many falls in love with this country. Ready to create new family memories? These five cities promise to keep everyone smiling!

Lisbon is like a giant playground for families! There are so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got some tips just for you. Hop on one of the city’s iconic yellow trams for a rollercoaster ride through the hills, visit the grand Lisbon Oceanarium – Europe’s largest, home to sharks, penguins, and even moonfish, or explore one of the many museums in the Belém area (some even offer kid-friendly experiences, like the National Coach Museum). Feeling adventurous? Head up to São Jorge Castle for epic views of the city and let the little ones pretend they’re knights for the day. There are also private tours designed just for kids, like treasure hunts, hands-on cooking workshops, or even princesses sharing stories of life in a royal palace. On top of all that, Lisbon has sunny squares, parks perfect for picnics and playtime, and, of course, “pastéis de nata” (the famous custard tarts). Does eating dessert count as a family activity? We think so!

This is one of those cities that enchants families with its riverside charm and laid-back vibe. Start with a boat ride on the Douro River – the kids will love the adventure of gliding along the water, spotting the colorful houses of the Ribeira district, and passing under the impressive bridges. Later, visit the Lello Bookshop, a truly captivating bookstore with its stunning stained-glass ceiling, spiral staircase, and shelves brimming with books that will spark the imagination of both young and old. Don’t miss the Crystal Palace Gardens, where kids can run and play freely while adults take in breathtaking views of the city and the river. And when it’s snack time, the city’s cafés will keep little appetites happy while parents sip world-class wine. Can you picture it? Few cities can match the magic of Porto.

Coimbra is a hidden treasure for families with curious minds and playful hearts. To kick things off, we suggest heading to Portugal dos Pequenitos, a park featuring a miniature Portugal specially designed for kids. Here, little ones can explore traditional houses and replicas of iconic landmarks, like the Jerónimos Monastery, the Convent of Christ, the Belém Tower, and the University of Coimbra, all in a size that’s just right for them. It’s like traveling the whole country in one afternoon! Next, let the history and charm of this city guide you to the University of Coimbra, where the old libraries seem to have inspired many films set in bygone eras. To unwind, make your way to the Mondego River Green Park, where kids can play freely. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the grassy bear statue – they’ll absolutely love it.

This small Portuguese village feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, where kids can truly be the stars! Be sure to take them to Pena Palace to explore its colorful towers and the magical gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, one of Sintra’s most mysterious spots (it even has caves and secret tunnels). Cooler than the coast, is a place perfect for easy exploration. So, if you’re traveling with kids who love hiking, don’t miss a stroll through the lush forests – it promises to be an energizing adventure. For even more fun, visit the Moorish Castle for stunning views and a sense of history. You can also hop on the Sintra tram for a charming, scenic ride through the area. There’s so much to do in the village, more than you can imagine! Book a tour with a private guide, and they’ll help you pick the best activities, tailoring the pace and stories to kids to make every moment exciting and never boring. Wrap up your day with a delicious “travesseiro” – that is, the sweet egg and almond pillow shaped pastry –, because every fairy tale deserves a happy (and tasty) ending. Right?

If your family loves vacationing in cities close to the beach, Faro should be on your list. This Algarve destination is perfect for a relaxing and fun-filled getaway. You can unwind on its calm, tranquil beaches, which are ideal for building sandcastles and enjoying refreshing dips in the sea with the children; or take a boat tour of the Formosa Lagoon Natural Park, where you might spot flamingos, dolphins, and even crabs scuttling along the shore. If you’ve got older kids with you, there are also awesome activities like kayaking and surfing along the Algarve coast to add a bit of adventure to your trip. For something truly unique, visit a nearby salt flat to discover how sea salt is made – we’re sure it will be a fascinating experience for the whole family. In town, Faro’s charming historic center invites you to stroll along its cobbled streets, savor a local meal, or take a well-deserved break with a delicious ice cream. Feeling tempted already? Let’s go.