Are you and your kids in need of an exciting family vacation? Look no further than Porto! It’s the second largest city in Portugal. Basking on the Atlantic shores of Portugal, this city is one big sensory overload that promises adventure for all ages. With its stunning historical attractions, incredible seafood cuisine, fascinating culture and vibrant atmosphere, there are so many reasons to visit Porto with kids – here are just a few!
Table of Contents: Porto with kids
Porto with kids (save for later!)
1. The food is amazing
Porto is known for its food, and there are plenty of kid-friendly options available. From the famous Francesinha sandwich to more traditional dishes like roasted chicken and potatoes, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget the desserts! Porto is home to some of the best pastries in the world, including the famous Porto tart.
2. The weather is perfect (well, close to!)
The weather in Porto is great for kids. It’s not too hot in the summer and there’s no need for heavy coats in the winter. Spring and fall are also lovely, with mild temperatures and beautiful flowers blooming everywhere.
Find out more about the weather in Portugal throughout the year here.
3. The beaches are beautiful
Porto has some great beaches that are perfect for families. Matosinhos Beach has a playground and a water park, while Leça da Palmeira Beach has a surfing school. Of course, there are also plenty of beaches where you can just relax and soak up the sun.
4. The parks
Porto has some wonderful gardens and parks that are perfect for exploring with kids. Parque da Cidade do Porto is the largest park in the city and has a lake, a playground, and a botanical garden. For something a little different, check out Zoo Santo Ignacio, which is home to over 1,000 animals from all over the world.
5.The museums
There are several kid-friendly museums in Porto, including the Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis and the Chocolate Story at WOW is a real treat! Both museums offer interactive exhibits that will keep kids entertained for hours.
6. The city is incredibly walkable
One of the best things about Porto is that it’s very easy to get around on foot, a little hilly, but very doable. This is great news if you’re travelling with kids, as you won’t have to worry about them getting tired or cranky from being cooped up on public transportation. It’s also a very easy city to get around on public transport – the new metro city connects the city exceptionally well. I would suggest though wearing comfortable shoes/trainers as streets can be a little uneven.
7. It’s a great value destination
Porto is a very affordable city, especially when compared to other European destinations. You’ll be able to stretch your budget further here, which means more money for activities and souvenirs for the kids and a few treats for yourself as well 🙂
8. There’s a rich culture to explore
From its architecture to its food, Porto has a lot of culture to offer visitors. Kids will love learning about the city’s history and seeing all the different sights.
9. The people are friendly and welcoming
You’ll find that the people of Porto are very friendly and welcoming, especially to families with children. They’re used to tourists, so don’t be surprised if they go out of their way to help you with directions or recommendations on what to see and do.
10. It’s a safe city
Porto is a very safe city, so you can relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about crime or other dangers. This of course is especially important when you’re traveling with young children!
11. You can’t beat the views
Porto is located on the Douro River, which means there are plenty of opportunities for stunning views of the cityscape. Get a view of the city from above with the cable car – A ride in one of the world’s oldest electric trams is an experience your kids will never forget! The cable car takes you up to Monte Agudo and offers stunning views across the city. It’s definitely worth doing, especially as it’s quite a unique experience for children.
12. The riverfront
The riverfront in Porto is a great place to take a stroll with kids. There are several parks along the way, as well as some great restaurants and cafes where you can stop for a bite to eat. Be sure to check out the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world!
Portugal has 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – discover them here.
10 Natural Wonders of Portugal – with images
13. The markets
Porto’s markets are a great place to find fresh produce, vegetables, seafood, and other local specialties. Mercado do Bolhão is one of the most popular markets in the city, but there are several others worth checking out as well. Kids will love watching (and tasting!) all of the different foods being sold at these vibrant markets.
14. The street art
Porto is filled with incredible street art, much of which can be found in the Baixa district downtown. Kids will love spotting all of the different murals and sculptures as you explore this vibrant area of the city.
Check out our post about Portuguese tiles and the Art Scene in Portugal.
15. The trams
Riding on one of Porto’s historic trams is an experience that shouldn’t be missed! These trams clatter through the streets of Porto, providing visitors with a unique view of the cityscape. Kids will love riding on these old-fashioned vehicles!
Wine Tours of Porto
Whilst I haven’t included this in my list, in Porto, it’s no surprise that Wine Tours are the adult playground – because parents can do something more than just make memories with their kids. Even though they’re not a typical family affair, these tours offer an enjoyable day out for everyone grown enough to sip and swirl and for the kids to run around and play quite freely in the vineyards!
Best areas of Porto to stay with kids
The Ribeira
If you’re keen to be right at the centre of the action in Porto, you won’t go wrong with Ribeira, the tourist hotspot that lines one side of the bustling riverbank. Just be prepared for the prices, which tend to reflect the primo location. Keep in mind, though, that much of the city slopes uphill from here, so you’ll find yourself trekking upwards to see many of the sights.
Aliados & Bolhão
If you’re looking for a convenient base to explore Porto, you might want to check out the area around Aliados & Bolhão. It’s just one stop from Trindade, which is the city’s main metro interchange, so cross-town exploring is a breeze. One thing to note is that accommodation prices can be a bit steep, and the area can get pretty bustling and noisy once the sun goes down.
The Masserelos and Cedofeita neighbourhoods
The Masserelos and Cedofeita neighbourhoods are amazing for a chilled-out stay that effortlessly balances urban and natural. Masserelos may be a wee bit further from the buzz, but it has the stunning Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, overflowing with riverside charm and hassle-free strolls. When travelling with the kids, Cedofeita’s got more family-friendly lodging options for you.
Vila Nova de Gaia
Discover Vila Nova de Gaia, situated on the tranquil south bank of the Douro and offering a calmer, affordable alternative to the vibrant center of Porto. Sip on the legendary port while exploring the cellars that made the district famous, or take in the stunning views from hilltop gardens and the Teleférico de Gaia cable car. With something for everyone, it’s the perfect destination for families and adults alike.
So there you have it, 15 amazing reasons why you should visit Porto with kids and also a snippet about the wine tours. From its historical roots, delicious food scene, vibrant culture, and fun activities for all ages, everyone in the family will be sure to have an unforgettable time. Plus, when the sun makes an appearance, you can spend a day relaxing at one of the stunning beaches nearby. Speaking of which- did we mention Portugal is only a two-hour flight from London! That’s less than half a day’s travel!
Don’t wait any longer – why not give Porto a visit and experience what this exciting city has to offer? Whether your plans involve venturing around the city or finding adventurous spots outside of town – Are you ready for a trip to Porto with kids?
To read more about our travels to Porto, click here.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Portugal
FAQ About Porto with kids
Is Porto or Lisbon better for kids?
Trying to decide between Porto or Lisbon for a family vacation? Let me tell you, both cities are fantastic and have their unique charms. If you’re able to, I’d recommend spending some time in each! However, if you’re looking for a city that’s easy to explore by foot and won’t break the bank, then I’d say Porto is your best bet. It’s a beautiful city with lots to see and do, and you’re sure to have a great time with your kids.
For more info about Lisbon, check out:
Lisbon with kids
Where to eat and drink in Lisbon with kids
Rainy Day Adventures in Lisbon
Weather in Portugal – when to visit?
Is Porto good for toddlers?
Yes, I would say that it is. One of its advantages is that it’s quite compact, so everything is relatively close. See above for the best areas to stay.
Is Portugal a good place to visit with kids?
Portugal in general is a wonderful, welcoming place to visit with kids, it’s exceptionally family-friendly, also it’s got a wide range of activities which suit all the families.
How to get from Porto airport to the city center and how far is it?
The easiest way to get from Porto airport to the city center is by taking the metro. The airport is approximately 12 kilometers away from the city center.
Is Porto with kids safe?
Porto is generally considered a safe city for tourists and locals alike. As with any popular travel destination, it’s important to stay vigilant and follow common-sense safety practices. Violent crime is rare, and the city has a strong police presence to ensure public safety. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Pickpocketing: Like many tourist hotspots, pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas such as Ribeira, São Bento train station, and the popular shopping streets. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Night Safety: Porto is lively at night, especially in areas like Galerias de Paris. While these areas are generally safe, it’s wise to stick to well-lit, busy streets and avoid walking alone late at night.
Public Transportation: The public transportation system in Porto is reliable and safe. However, always keep an eye on your bags and personal items, particularly on buses and trams.
Safety Tips:
Use a money belt or hidden pouch to keep your valuables secure.
Avoid flashing expensive items like jewelry or electronics.
Be cautious when using ATMs, and try to use those located inside banks or busy areas.
Stay in well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighborhoods.
Overall, Porto is a friendly and welcoming city, and following these simple tips can help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable visit.
When is the best time of year to visit Porto?
The best time to visit Porto is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller. Summer (June to August) is also a popular time, but it can be quite crowded and hot.
Is English widely spoken in Porto?
While Portuguese is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops. Most locals working in the tourism industry have a good command of English, so you should have no trouble communicating.
Are there any day trips I can take from Porto?
Yes, there are several great day trips you can take from Porto. Some popular options include visiting the Douro Valley for wine tasting, exploring the historic city of Guimarães, or spending a day in the coastal town of Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal.
What is the tipping etiquette in Porto?
Tipping is not mandatory in Porto, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% of the bill if you are satisfied with the service. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest Euro is common practice
8 responses
This is interesting and the food looks so yummy. I don’t have kids but this is a great family place. And it nice it’s good for walking as well.
looks like a great place for a family vacation, and your pictures are spectacular.
Now I want to go to Porto!! This looks amazing.
I’d love to visit this place Porto, with or without kids.
I love your featured photo of the tram. Awesome shot!
Portugal looks and sounds amazing! I love the descriptions for the reasons to go. I love the storytelling aspect and look forward to reading more articles!
You had me at food! Wow, this place looks amazing. I’m going to have to keep it in mind if I ever travel that direction.
Excellent guide to visiting Porto with kids! Your detailed recommendations and insights make it easier for families to plan a memorable trip. Thanks for sharing these helpful tips!