What I wish I knew before traveling Portugal with kids

We’ve learned a LOT about traveling in Portugal with kids after spending 3 months living and traveling in Portugal. We first came as tourists for a quick 4 night trip in Lisbon and then a couple years later returned for 3 months! Our experience traveling in Portugal has been amazing and we’ve LOVED Portugal’s family friendly culture, beautiful sights, and unique experiences. We’ve figured out a lot of tips on how to make traveling in Portugal with kids a bit easier, so today I want to share some travel tips that what I WISH I knew before visiting.

Getting to and around Portugal

Portugal’s major airports, like Lisbon and Porto, are generally family-friendly. They offer family security lines and even provide strollers for use at Lisbon Airport. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find plenty of transportation options, but each comes with its own pros and cons.

• Public Transportation: Public transport is pretty good, especially within Lisbon, although its not always the quickest option compared to driving when you’re out in smaller towns. Also, the elevators seem to often be broken at the train stations, so just be prepared to carry your stroller or unload the kids off it for the escalator ride if that’s all that’s available.
• Taxis and Rideshares: These are widely available, but car seats are not guaranteed. Since car seats are legally required even for short rides, we ended up purchasing our own for our extended stay.
• Car Rentals: For our family, renting a car was the most practical option when outside of Lisbon. It gave us the flexibility to explore at our own pace and leave our car seats in the car while we explored!

Navigating hilly cities with a stroller

Portugal’s cities are extremely hilly, with cobblestone streets that can be tough to navigate with a stroller. If you’re bringing a stroller, which I would recommend with how much you’re going to be walking, opt for a lightweight, compact model and pair it with a baby carrier for less accessible areas. We brought a double stroller (which we usually love) and quickly regretted it—it was too bulky for the narrow streets and too heavy with steep inclines. Many parks, museums, and public buildings offer accessible ramps and pathways, but some historic sites may be tricky to navigate.

Additionally, public restrooms aren’t always easy to find, so plan bathroom breaks at cafés, restaurants, or tourist spots to avoid emergencies.

Kid-friendly places we loved

Portugal is packed with attractions perfect for families. Here are some of our faves!

• Lisbon: Oceanário de Lisboa, Jardim Zoológico, Pavilhão do Conhecimento, LX Factory, São Jorge Castle.
• Sintra: Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Moorish Castle, Monserrate Palace, Praia das Maçãs
• Cascais: Parque Marechal Carmona, Praia da Conceição, Cabo da Roca (the westernmost point of mainland Europe).
• Algarve: Zoomarine, Praia da Rocha, Praia do Camilo, dolphin-watching tours.

The family-friendly culture is real

One of the standout features of Portugal is its family-centered culture. The Portuguese are warm, welcoming, and adore children. It’s not uncommon for locals or restaurant staff to chat with your kids or offer assistance. Families with children under the age of 2 often benefit from a priority policy in lines at various public places, such as airports, train stations, and some attractions. This family-friendly approach helps parents skip ahead or use designated family lines to save time and make the experience less stressful with young children.

At airports like Lisbon, for example, there are family security lanes for quicker processing. Many larger attractions, including some castles and museums, also extend this courtesy. It’s always worth asking staff if there is a priority line for families—it’s a common practice and often a lifesaver when traveling with little ones!

That said, dining times in Portugal tend to be later in the evening. If your kids have an early bedtime, consider adjusting your schedule or planning meals at earlier hours to accommodate them.

Food and dining with kids

Portuguese cuisine is both delicious and family-friendly. Even picky eaters can find something to enjoy, like grilled chicken, rice, and fresh bread. Seafood lovers will be in heaven, but there are plenty of simpler options for younger palates. Also, if you want a taste of home or another culture, the bigger cities have plenty of variety as well.

And don’t leave without trying pastéis de nata, Portugal’s iconic custard tart—it’s a treat the whole family will love!

What to pack

Packing strategically can make a world of difference.

• For the Sun: High-SPF sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing are essential.
• For the Weather: Bring layers, especially if you’re visiting coastal areas where the weather can change quickly.
• For Walking: Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating cobblestones and steep streets.

If you’re traveling with a toddler or baby, a lightweight stroller and a baby carrier will cover all your bases.

The language barrier

While many Portuguese people speak English, especially in the touristy areas! But if you’re headed to a smaller town, it might be helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese for politeness or to navigate less touristy areas. For instance, words like casa de banho (bathroom) or ajuda, por favor (help, please) can be helpful.

Don’t try to do it all in a day

To avoid burnout, plan rest days between busy sightseeing adventures or at least slower paced days. Portuguese culture embraces a slower pace of life, and that’s way to do Portugal with kids!

Build flexibility into your schedule to accommodate naps, downtime, or unplanned detours. Sometimes, the most memorable moments come from simply enjoying a quiet park, a scenic view, or a leisurely snack at a café. In my opinion, slowing down helps you enjoy the moment and really take it in!

Have a great trip

Portugal is an incredible destination for families and I think you’ll love it if you’re a fan of adventure, culture, and beautiful landscapes. By understanding the challenges and preparing accordingly, you can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

If you’ve traveled to Portugal with kids, I’d love to hear your tips and experiences in the comments! Whether it’s navigating cobblestones, tackling those crazy hills, or discovering hidden gems, every insight helps fellow parents make the most of their adventures.

Happy travels!