Porto, Portugal is a great destination for a family holiday. With its rich history, UNESCO World Heritage buildings, amazing Portuguese food, and lively atmosphere, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Despite being the second largest city in Portugal, it is still manageable to explore by foot, taking in all the beautiful painted tiled walls and strolling through its narrow hilly streets.
For families, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. From visiting the world’s most beautiful bookshop, Livraria Lello, to exploring the city’s parks with viewpoints and cafes as a reward for climbing its famous hills, Porto has a lot to offer. Families can also take advantage of the city’s riverfront location and try out water sports or take a boat tour to see the city from a different perspective.
When it comes to accommodation, there are many family-friendly hotels and apartments to choose from in Porto. Families can opt to stay in the city center or in one of the surrounding neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and attractions. With so much to see and do, a family holiday in Porto is sure to be a memorable experience for all.
Planning Your Porto Family Holiday
When planning a family holiday to Porto, there are a few key things to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. This section will cover some important factors to keep in mind when planning your Porto family holiday.
Best Time to Visit
Porto is a great destination to visit year-round, but the best time to visit for a family holiday is typically during the summer months (June to August). During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city. However, it is important to note that this is peak tourist season, so prices for accommodations and activities may be higher.
Setting a Budget
Setting a budget is an important step in planning any holiday, and Porto is no exception. When setting a budget for your Porto family holiday, consider the cost of flights, accommodations, activities, and meals. It is also a good idea to set aside some extra money for unexpected expenses.
To save money on accommodations, consider staying in a vacation rental or apartment instead of a hotel. This can also be a great option for families as it allows for more space and the ability to cook meals at home.
Choosing the Right Accommodation
Choosing the right accommodation is key to a successful family holiday in Porto. When selecting accommodations, consider the location, amenities, and size. It is important to choose a location that is convenient for your family’s activities and interests.
For families with young children, it may be helpful to choose accommodations with a kitchen or kitchenette for preparing meals and snacks. It is also important to consider the size of the accommodation to ensure that everyone has enough space to be comfortable.
Overall, with careful planning and consideration of these factors, a family holiday in Porto can be a wonderful and memorable experience.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Porto
Porto is a great destination for families with kids. There are plenty of family-friendly attractions that both parents and children can enjoy. Here are some of the top attractions to visit during your family holiday in Porto.
Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is a historic bookstore that is famous for its stunning interior. It is a must-visit attraction for book lovers and families alike. The bookstore is located in the heart of Porto, and its beautiful architecture and intricate details are sure to impress visitors of all ages.
Porto’s Riverside
Porto’s Riverside is a great place to take a stroll with your family. The area is filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. There are also plenty of street performers and musicians who entertain visitors with their music and performances.
Serralves Museum and Park
Serralves Museum and Park is a great place to spend a day with your family. The museum features contemporary art exhibitions that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. The park is also a great place to explore, with its beautiful gardens and walking trails.
Overall, Porto is a great destination for families with kids. With its beautiful architecture, stunning attractions, and friendly locals, it is sure to be a memorable family holiday.
Outdoor Activities for Families
Porto is not only known for its historical landmarks and cultural attractions but also for its outdoor activities that are perfect for families. Here are some of the top outdoor activities that families can enjoy together:
Beaches Near Porto
Porto is surrounded by some of the best beaches in Portugal. Families can take a short trip to Matosinhos Beach, which is just a few kilometers from Porto. This beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. It also has a long promenade where families can take a stroll and enjoy the ocean view.
Another great beach near Porto is Praia da Luz, which is located in the town of Foz do Douro. This beach is perfect for families with young children as it has a calm and shallow sea. It also has a playground and a picnic area where families can have a fun day out.
Porto City Park
Porto City Park is a great place for families to spend a day outdoors. It is the largest urban park in Portugal and has a wide range of activities for families to enjoy. Families can take a walk or bike ride along the park’s many trails, have a picnic, or relax on the grass.
The park also has a playground, a lake where families can rent paddle boats, and a mini-golf course. There are also several cafes and restaurants in the park where families can have a meal or snack.
Douro Valley Day Trips
The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its vineyards and wine production. Families can take a day trip to the Douro Valley and enjoy the scenic views, visit the vineyards, and learn about the wine-making process.
Families can also take a boat trip along the Douro River and enjoy the stunning landscape. There are several tour operators that offer day trips to the Douro Valley from Porto, and families can choose from several options depending on their interests and budget.
Overall, Porto offers a wide range of outdoor activities that are perfect for families. Whether it’s a day at the beach, a visit to the park, or a day trip to the Douro Valley, families are sure to have a fun and memorable time together.
Porto’s Culinary Delights for Kids
Porto is a city that offers a lot of culinary delights for kids. Here are some of the best places to eat and things to try while on a family holiday in Porto.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
Porto has a lot of restaurants that are kid-friendly and offer a variety of dishes that kids will love. One such restaurant is Casa de Pasto da Palmeira, which offers traditional Portuguese dishes and has a play area for kids. Another great option is the Hard Rock Cafe, which has a kids’ menu and a fun atmosphere.
Portuguese Treats to Try
Portugal is known for its delicious pastries, and Porto has some of the best. One must-try pastry is the Pastel de Nata, a sweet custard tart that is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Another treat to try is the Bolinhos de Bacalhau, a fried codfish cake that is a popular snack in Porto.
Port Wine Tasting for Parents
While the kids enjoy their treats, parents can indulge in some Port wine tasting. Porto is famous for its Port wine, and there are many wineries that offer tastings. One such winery is the Sandeman Winery, which offers guided tours and tastings of their famous Port wine.
Overall, Porto has a lot to offer in terms of culinary delights for kids and parents alike. With its kid-friendly restaurants, delicious pastries, and famous Port wine, Porto is the perfect destination for a family holiday.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip
Navigating Porto with Children
Porto is a great destination for a family holiday, but it can be a bit challenging to navigate with children. The city is hilly, and the streets are narrow and winding, which can make it difficult to push a stroller or walk with young kids. However, there are a few things you can do to make your trip easier.
First, consider using a baby carrier instead of a stroller. This will allow you to navigate the narrow streets and steep hills more easily. If you do bring a stroller, look for one with good suspension and sturdy wheels. Porto’s cobblestone streets can be rough on strollers, so you’ll want one that can handle the terrain.
Second, plan your itinerary carefully. Porto is a walkable city, but you’ll want to avoid long walks with young children. Instead, focus on exploring one or two neighborhoods each day. The Ribeira district is a great place to start, with its colorful buildings and lively atmosphere. Other family-friendly neighborhoods include Boavista and Foz do Douro.
Safety and Health
Porto is a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take a few precautions when traveling with children. Make sure your kids know their full name and your phone number in case they get lost. You may also want to consider using a child safety harness in crowded areas.
In terms of health, Porto is a relatively low-risk destination. However, it’s always a good idea to pack a basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. If your child has any specific medical needs, make sure to bring any necessary medications with you.
Cultural Etiquette
Porto is a friendly and welcoming city, but it’s important to be aware of local customs and etiquette. When visiting churches or other religious sites, make sure to dress modestly and remove your hat. It’s also polite to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.
When dining out, it’s customary to leave a small tip (5-10%) for good service. If you’re traveling with young children, it’s a good idea to ask for a high chair or booster seat when making your reservation. Many restaurants in Porto are family-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to check before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best family-friendly activities in Porto?
Porto offers a wide range of family-friendly activities. The Livraria Lello bookstore is a must-visit for book lovers of all ages. The interactive World of Discoveries museum is perfect for families with young children, and the Serralves Foundation boasts a beautiful park, contemporary art museum, and a farm with animals.
Where are the most suitable areas to stay in Porto with children?
The most suitable areas to stay in Porto with children are Ribeira and Baixa. These central neighborhoods make it easy to get around on foot, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. The Foz do Douro neighborhood is also a great option, as it is close to the beach and has a more relaxed atmosphere.
Can you recommend any all-inclusive family resorts in Porto?
Unfortunately, there are no all-inclusive family resorts in Porto. However, there are several family-friendly hotels and apartments that offer amenities such as swimming pools, play areas, and babysitting services.
Are there any indoor playgrounds or child-friendly attractions in Porto?
Yes, there are several indoor playgrounds and child-friendly attractions in Porto. The World of Discoveries museum mentioned earlier has interactive exhibits that are perfect for children. There is also the Sea Life Porto aquarium, the Porto City Park, and the Gaia Cable Car, which offers stunning views of the city.
How many days are recommended for a family holiday in Porto?
A family holiday in Porto can be enjoyed in as little as three days, but a five-day trip is recommended to fully explore the city and its surroundings. This allows for enough time to visit the major attractions, take a day trip to nearby towns, and enjoy some downtime.
Which is more suitable for a family vacation, Porto or Lisbon?
Both Porto and Lisbon are suitable for a family vacation, but Porto has a more relaxed atmosphere and is less crowded than Lisbon. Porto also has a more compact city center, making it easier to get around with children. However, Lisbon offers more activities and attractions overall, so it depends on what the family is looking for in a vacation.
