Portugal Family Vacations

Famous for its incredibly welcoming people, Portugal also offers stunning beaches, beautiful historic attractions, and fantastic food and culture. From the vast rolling plains in the central regions to the dramatic northern mountain ranges, your family will be amazed by what you see and do.

What makes Portugal a great destination for families ?

Your family is in good hands when planning and booking a trip to Portugal with Evaneos. Evaneos works with English-speaking family travel experts who will help to create a fantastic trip for you. Portugal is known as a safe and friendly destination for visitors, and getting around is easy as English is widely understood, especially in the cities. There's a great range of accommodation options in Portugal suited for families, including villas and cabins.

Best things to do in Portugal with kids

Considering its relatively small size, Portugal boasts lots of fun for vacationing families. Plus, the classic Portuguese hospitality ensures that regardless of what you're up to, smiles will always await you. There’s a wealth of activities for children of all ages to enjoy, here are a few of our top recommendations: 

Discover underground caves

If you're looking for a different kind of active experience, venture underground into the Grutas de Mira de Aire cave. These limestone caves are located in a nature reserve just outside Alcobaça in central Portugal. Explore the extensive network of chambers and lakes before taking an elevator back to the surface.

Explore a royal garden

Sintra is known for its palaces and castles, but its Quinta da Regaleira garden proves irresistible for kids. Young explorers will enjoy exploring the hidden passageways and tunnels, and for the extra adventurous, seek out the site’s hidden waterfall and take the spiral staircase down one of the deepest wells.

Go on a Portuguese culinary adventure

A vacation in Portugal for families is also an opportunity to sample this country's best culinary delights. Pop into the many inviting eateries and cafes for traditional dishes that show off a diversity of local flavors and ingredients. Even the pickiest eaters will be satisfied. Try specialties like the cozido à portuguesa sausage stew, or the pasteis de nata custard tarts.

Get around in style

Sometimes the journey itself is half the fun. There's a multitude of interesting options for the family to get around while in Portugal. You can take a ride on one of Lisbon's iconic trams, hire a tuk-tuk, or take a cruise off the Portuguese coast. Or go for some pedal power with a bike trip. And when traveling between cities, trains or car rentals allow you to experience the beautiful countryside in an easy, accessible and affordable manner. 

Tips for planning a family vacation in Portugal

Family trips in Portugal are a great idea, no matter the season. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to go, especially for city trips, since the weather is warmer and milder than most places in Europe and you’ll avoid the busy summer crowds. It's best to dress in layers, as the coasts can be cooler and breezier. Summer is best for visiting Southern Portugal and the Algarve with its famous beaches but be warned, the waters around Portugal are ice cold even on the hottest of days. Though Portugal is well-connected by public transport, consider renting a car to explore the gorgeous countryside.