One of my favorite getaways with my family has been Portugal, with our last trip being over Thanksgiving break last November. Apparently I am not the only one who fell in love with Portugal's rich culture and family friendly activities, as many of my clients in and around Boston have been working with me at Travelova to book their Portugal vacations. With all the buzz, I wanted to highlight why Portugal may be a good fit for your family; especially if you are in the Boston area.
Before we get into a sample itinerary highlighting some of the gems my family and I discovered in our last trip that have also become crowd favorites among my clients, let's take a look at why visiting Portugal from Boston is such a great idea for your family trip:
With nonstop direct daily flights from Logan, you can be in Lisbon hassle free in less than 6 hours (about the same time it would take you to fly to California). With a recent addition, both TAP Portugal and Delta fly direct from Boston Logan to Lisbon, Portugal with up to 3 flights daily to choose from in higher seasons.
Who likes jet lag? Probably not a crowd favorite especially when you are travelling with kids. The good news is that the time difference with Portugal is just 5 hours which is the least you will find going to Europe. Plus if you take an evening flight out from Boston, you will 'move with the time' so that when you land in the morning you may still feel a little jet lagged on the first day but much less so than other destinations.
Portugal is very affordable and has amazing options for all kinds of budgets. If you have traveled before to other popular European getaways, you probably felt the pinch in places like London, Paris, or Switzerland. However, Portugal is far more affordable when it comes to not just lodging but also going out to restaurants or visiting museums or renting a car. With the added bonus of the Euro being weaker, your money goes a lot farther in Portugal today.
Portugal is very easy to get around! There are so many things to see and do (we will get to that soon, I promise!) but the beauty is that its all so close by. By being a relatively small country you can jump by car or train from say Lisbon to Porto in less than 3 hours. Driving is not stressful at all in Portugal, with roads that are honestly much better than what we are used to in Boston and local drivers are not as intense as you may find in Italy for instance.
People are incredibly friendly. While you may encounter language barriers occasionally (most people are able to speak rather well in English), what we never encountered was rude behavior or poor service. The Portuguese are very friendly and welcoming to visitors and go out of their way to make sure your kids will enjoy visiting their country.
Ok I can go on and on but let's look at some of the top family favorites that my clients have found in Portugal. As always, I work with every client individually based on their interests and budget to craft an itinerary that is right for them.
Lisbon
Your journey will naturally start in Lisbon, the capital and largest city in Portugal. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and amazing food scene; the city is a great place to start your journey. There are several key neighborhoods that are great to visit or stay in and I work with families to explain which neighborhood would be best for their families (the top picks are usually Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Alfama)
One of my favorite ways for families to get an early feel for the city is to go on the popular private
Tuk-Tuk tours
These tours take you on a private tour of the different neighborhoods of Lisbon while riding in Tuk Tuk cars that will make it incredibly fun for your kids. You can decide on the length of your tour and which neighborhoods you are most interested to see. While riding through the hilly streets of Lisbon, you will be grateful not only for the local guides that share their insights about this magical city; but also that you didn't have to walk up those steep streets. Which is why I always tell my clients to tell the guide to end the tours either back at your hotel or at the top of Alfama by Castelo de S. Jorge.
Castelo de S. Jorge
Castelo de S. Jorge, is an 11th century Moorish castle with spectacular city views, which sits high atop the Alfama neighborhood. Around the castle are beautiful gardens where you will find beautiful peacocks wandering around. My kids absolutely loved running around the castle walls and trying to see if the peacocks would spread their beautiful feathers
Aside from the views (and peacocks) one of the other best things about this castle is that you can walk down through the infamous Alfama neighborhood on your way out. This makes it much easier for your kids (and for you!) to explore the tiny streets filled with lovely houses, cafes, and music scenes.
Alfama
Steeped in history and brimming with charm, Alfama is a must-visit district for families traveling to Lisbon. Its labyrinthine streets, painted in cheerful hues of yellow, blue, and pink, make for an enchanting setting for a family stroll. Little ones will love hopping on the iconic Tram 28, which winds through the narrow cobbled streets, offering picturesque views of the district and beyond. For a fun-filled family outing, head to the interactive Lisbon Story Centre, where your family can delve into the fascinating story of Lisbon's past through engaging multimedia exhibits. Don't forget to stop by a local bakery for a taste of the traditional Pastel de Nata, a custard tart that's sure to delight the taste buds of adults and kids alike. Alfama's unique blend of history, culture, and charm makes it a captivating destination for families seeking an immersive Lisbon experience.
While Alfama is a must see during your visit to Lisbon, there are other neighborhoods not too far behind.
Chiado and Bairro Alto
Chiado, the cultural heart of the city, is home to a variety of interesting museums and historic landmarks that will captivate both adults and children. Visit the Bertrand Bookstore, recognized as the world's oldest operating bookstore, to pick up a book or two for the kids. Don't forget to sample the chocolate cake at Landeau Chocolate – a delight for all ages.
A short stroll away is Bairro Alto, known for its colorful, graffiti-covered buildings and vibrant atmosphere. By day, take your family to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara for panoramic views of the city that are sure to inspire awe in the little ones. If you're there on a weekend, be sure to check out the vibrant market at Principe Real, where the kids can enjoy local sweets while parents shop for unique souvenirs. As the sun sets, Bairro Alto's quiet streets come alive with the sounds of Fado music, offering an authentic slice of Portuguese culture. With plenty of family-friendly eateries in both districts, you're never too far from a delicious Portuguese meal that everyone can enjoy. Chiado and Bairro Alto's dynamic mix of culture, history, and local flavor create an enriching experience for families visiting Lisbon
I could go on and on about Lisbon and the crafted itineraries I have provided to my clients to match their family needs, but I really want to jump into what you can do as day trips from Lisbon that really standout
Day Trips from Lisbon: Cascais and Sintra
As I mentioned earlier, one of the best aspects of visiting Portugal with your family is that everything is relatively close by. In fact two of my favorite gems in Portugal can be easily done as day trips during your stay in Lisbon.
Cascais
Just a short train ride from Lisbon (45 minute commuter rail), the charming seaside town of Cascais is an ideal day-trip destination for families with children. With its sandy beaches, scenic parks, and child-friendly museums, there's something for every family member to enjoy. Kids will love exploring the fairytale-esque Castro Guimaraes Museum and its surrounding gardens, where peacocks freely roam. A trip to the Sea Museum will enthrall young marine enthusiasts, providing a glimpse into Portugal's historic relationship with the sea.
But Cascais is not just about history and culture; it's also a haven for outdoor activities. Take a leisurely family bike ride along the scenic coastal path or enjoy a relaxing day on the child-friendly beaches of Praia da Rainha or Praia da Conceição. Don't forget to indulge in some local seafood at one of the many family-friendly restaurants that line the town's cobblestone streets.
In Cascais, families can experience the best of Portuguese culture, history, and nature all in one day. With its relaxed atmosphere and family-oriented attractions, it's a perfect addition to any family trip to Lisbon.
Sintra
Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a magical destination for families traveling with children in Portugal. Less than an hour's drive from Lisbon, this town is a realm of fairy-tale palaces, enchanted gardens, and lush forests that will captivate children's imaginations.
Begin your family adventure at the Pena Palace, a vibrant, multicolored castle perched high on a hill. Its whimsical architecture and breathtaking views will make you feel like you've stepped into a storybook. The surrounding Pena Park is an adventure in itself with hidden pathways leading to exotic plants and secret caves.
Continue the magical journey at Quinta da Regaleira, where kids will be thrilled to explore the enigmatic 'Initiation Wells' and the maze of underground tunnels. For a dose of natural wonder, take a leisurely family walk in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, home to diverse flora and fauna.
In the heart of the town, the Sintra National Palace stands out with its distinctive twin chimneys. After exploring its richly decorated rooms, treat your family to some local pastries at Piriquita, a famous local bakery. Their Travesseiros de Sintra - flaky pastries filled with almond cream - are a hit with kids and adults alike.
Sintra's mystical allure and child-friendly attractions make it an unforgettable part of any family trip to Portugal. Its blend of natural beauty and fascinating history offers an engaging, educational, and exciting experience for families
My kids absolutely loved Sintra and I can't recommend it enough during your visit from Boston to Portugal. Beyond Lisbon: Porto Just an easy 3 hour drive from Lisbon (you can take the train as well), Porto, Portugal's second-largest city, is an incredible destination for families traveling with children. Full of vibrant history, culture, and warm hospitality, Porto provides an array of attractions and activities that both kids and adults will love.
Start your family adventure at the World of Discoveries, an interactive museum and theme park where children can learn about the Portuguese Age of Discovery in a fun and engaging way. Navigate your way through history in a boat ride, meeting famous explorers and experiencing the cultures they encountered.
Stroll across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for a panoramic view of the city. This double-deck metal arch bridge is a marvel for young budding engineers. From there, take the funicular or climb the Clerigos Tower's 200 steps for an even more stunning view.
Kids will love a visit to Serralves Museum and its surrounding gardens. The museum's contemporary art might intrigue older children, while the spacious gardens provide a great place for younger ones to run and play.
Don't forget to visit the beautiful Livraria Lello, one of the oldest bookshops in Portugal. Known for its stunning interior and rumored to have inspired parts of the Harry Potter series, it's a must-visit for any book-loving family.
Porto's seaside neighborhood, Foz, is perfect for a leisurely day of beach fun and ice cream. Here you can relax and watch the world go by, Portuguese style.
Porto is not just about sightseeing; it's also about tasting. Although Port wine may be for adults, kids can enjoy the region's delicious cuisine - try a francesinha, a local sandwich that's a meal in itself.
With its family-friendly attractions, delicious food, and rich history, Porto is a city that promises a memorable family vacation. Its mix of education, fun, and adventure offers a valuable and enjoyable experience for families.
Aside from Porto being an amazing city to visit on its own, it is also the gateway to the famous Douro Valley.
Douro Valley Known for its breathtaking landscapes and world-renowned wine production, the Douro Valley is an exceptional destination for families traveling with children from Porto. Its undulating hills, lush vineyards, and serene river views provide a calm and inspiring escape for families seeking a touch of nature and culture.
Start your family journey aboard a rabelo boat, traditional vessels that once transported wine barrels along the Douro River. These leisurely cruises offer stunning views of the valley's terraced vineyards, quaint villages, and historical quintas (wine estates). While the adults may appreciate the region's wine significance, children will be thrilled by the boat ride and the surrounding natural beauty.
Visit the Douro Museum in Peso da Régua, where interactive displays tell the fascinating story of the region's wine culture and the river's impact on the local community. Nearby, the town offers lovely riverside parks where kids can play and families can picnic.
Venture to Quinta da Pacheca, a family-friendly wine estate that not only allows parents to taste their acclaimed Douro wines but also offers cooking classes. Children will enjoy the freedom of the spacious estate, its farm animals, and learning to bake traditional Portuguese bread.
Consider a scenic train ride along the Douro line. The journey provides spectacular views of the river and vine-clad hills, captivating children's imaginations as the landscape rolls by.
In the heart of the Douro Valley, Pinhão is a charming town worth exploring. Children will be delighted by the beautifully decorated blue and white tiles (azulejos) at the town's train station, which illustrate the grape harvest and wine production process.
The Douro Valley's natural beauty, engaging activities, and welcoming atmosphere create an unforgettable experience for families. It offers a delightful mix of relaxation and exploration, guaranteeing a memorable addition to any family trip to Portugal.
Summing it all up
Wait but what about the south coast with beaches, caves, and coastal cliffs? You are right, I could probably write a book about the different regions of Portugal in terms of what to see and do. However, I wanted to highlight just a touch of what is possible on your family trip to Portugal and then the best next step is to match this with your personal interests. That's why I work individually with each family to plan their itineraries for their Boston to Portugal adventure. My hope is that this blog post gave you a good introduction for why Portugal should be on your list of places to visit. As always I am available to help answer any questions and to work with you on your next trip. Let's get in touch!
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