15-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Portugal
Portugal is an absolute dream for families who want to combine rich history with a laid-back lifestyle. This 15-day itinerary focuses on the 'Epic Journey' theme by traversing the country from north to south, but we’ve tailored every stop to be kid-friendly, focusing on accessible parks, interactive museums, and easy transport.
You will find that the Portuguese people are incredibly welcoming to children, often offering priority in lines and a warm smile at every pastelaria. This route keeps the pace relaxed, ensuring you have time to enjoy a second Pastel de Nata while the little ones play in the many beautiful ‘Jardins’ across the country.
Day 1: Lisbon, Portugal - Arrival & River Views
Arrival at Lisbon Portela Airport
Touch down in the capital. After clearing customs, grab a large taxi or use a ride-sharing app for the most comfortable transfer to your hotel with luggage and strollers.
Check-in at Chiado/Baixa
Drop your bags at a family-friendly apartment in the flat Baixa district. This area is much easier to navigate with a stroller than the steep hills of Alfama.
Walk the Ribeira das Naus
Enjoy a gentle stroll along the riverfront toward the Praça do Comércio. This wide, pedestrianized area is perfect for kids to burn off post-flight energy.
Dinner at Time Out Market
A bustling food hall with dozens of stalls. It’s noisy and lively, making it the perfect spot for families where no one will mind a fussy toddler.
Day 2: Lisbon, Portugal - Belem’s Historical Wonders
Jerónimos Monastery
Visit this stunning UNESCO site. The cloisters are wide and generally stroller-accessible. Try to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Pastéis de Belém
A must-visit for the original custard tart. The indoor seating area is surprisingly large and can accommodate strollers if you go to the back sections.
Belém Tower & Monument to the Discoveries
Walk along the flat garden paths connecting these two icons. There is plenty of green space for a family picnic by the Tagus River.
Coach Museum (Museu Nacional dos Coches)
One of the best museums for kids in Lisbon, featuring a huge collection of royal horse-drawn carriages that look like they are from a Disney movie.
Day 3: Lisbon, Portugal - Marine Life & Modern Parks
Oceanário de Lisboa
Located in the modern Parque das Nações district, this is one of the world's best aquariums. It is fully stroller-friendly and features a massive central tank.
Telecabine Lisboa (Cable Car)
Take a scenic ride above the river. It’s a short, thrilling experience for children that offers great views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge.
Pavilhão do Conhecimento
An interactive science museum located right next to the aquarium. It has dedicated zones for different age groups, including toddlers.
Relax at Parque das Nações
Let the kids run around the water gardens and volcano-themed fountains before heading back to the city center.
Day 4: Sintra, Portugal - Fairytale Castles
Train to Sintra
Take the direct train from Rossio Station. It’s a 40-minute journey. Avoid driving as parking in Sintra is a nightmare with a family.
Pena Palace Gardens
The palace itself can be cramped with a stroller, but the expansive gardens are magical. Use a baby carrier here if possible to explore the hidden lakes.
Quinta da Regaleira
Famous for its initiation well and secret tunnels. Kids love the 'adventure' feel of the mossy grottoes and stepping stones.
Sintra Village Center
Enjoy a 'Travesseiro' pastry at Piriquita and explore the small shops before checking into your Sintra-based accommodation.
Day 5: Cascais, Portugal - Coastal Relaxation
Transfer to Cascais
A short taxi or bus ride from Sintra. Cascais is a charming seaside town with flat, paved streets perfect for walking with children.
Boca do Inferno
Witness the dramatic cliffs where the sea crashes against the rocks. The viewing platform is accessible and offers great photo ops.
Praia da Ribeira
The main beach in town is small, calm, and very safe for children to splash in. There are plenty of cafes lining the sand.
Marechal Carmona Park
A beautiful park with a large playground, roaming peacocks, and plenty of shade. A perfect 'reset' spot for the family.
Day 6: Coimbra, Portugal - Historic University City
Train to Coimbra
Travel north on the comfortable Alfa Pendular train. It's about a 2-hour journey from Lisbon/Cascais area.
Lunch by the Mondego River
The riverside park (Parque Verde do Mondego) has several family restaurants with outdoor seating and views of the city.
Coimbra University
Visit the oldest university in Portugal. While the Joanina Library is strict about silence, the main courtyard is great for kids to run around.
Fado ao Centro
Attend a family-friendly afternoon Fado performance. Unlike Lisbon, Coimbra's Fado is sung by male students and is very melodic.
Day 7: Coimbra, Portugal - Miniature Worlds
Portugal dos Pequenitos
This is a legendary miniature park featuring small-scale versions of Portuguese houses and monuments. Children can actually go inside the tiny buildings.
Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha
The ruins of this gothic monastery are fascinating and have a flat, grassy area that is easy to navigate with a stroller.
Penedo da Saudade
A beautiful terraced garden with stone plaques of poetry and great views over the city—a quiet spot for some downtime.
Dinner in the Baixa District
Explore the pedestrianized streets of lower Coimbra, filled with family-run taverns serving grilled chicken and rice.
Day 8: Porto, Portugal - Arrival in the North
Train to Porto Campanhã
A quick 1-hour train ride takes you to the heart of the north. Use a taxi to get from the station to your Ribeira accommodation.
Ribeira District Walk
Stroll along the Douro riverfront. The atmosphere is electric with street performers and boats bobbing in the water.
Cais da Ribeira Playground
There is a small but well-located playground near the river where kids can play while parents enjoy the view.
Check-in & Dinner
Settle into your hotel. For dinner, try a 'Francesinha'—Porto’s famous hearty sandwich (they usually have smaller versions for kids).
Day 9: Porto, Portugal - Bookstores & Bridges
Livraria Lello
Known as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. You must book a timed entry. It’s tight for strollers, so use a carrier if possible.
Clérigos Tower & Garden
While the climb is tough for little ones, the garden base (Jardim das Oliveiras) is a great grassy rooftop spot to relax.
Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão
The newly renovated market is clean, accessible, and full of fresh fruit, bread, and local snacks.
Luís I Bridge Crossing
Walk across the upper deck of the bridge for incredible views. It’s pedestrianized and safe, though keep a firm hand on the kids!
Day 10: Porto, Portugal - Interactive History
World of Discoveries
An interactive museum and theme park that takes you through the history of Portuguese explorers. It includes a boat ride through different continents.
Crystal Palace Gardens (Jardins do Palácio de Cristal)
The best park in Porto for families. It has peacocks, chickens, and plenty of space to run, plus stunning views of the Douro.
6 Bridges River Cruise
A 50-minute boat trip on a traditional Rabelo boat. It's short enough to keep kids entertained while providing a great perspective of the city.
Gelato on the Waterfront
End the day with a treat from one of the many artisanal gelato shops in the Ribeira or Gaia side.
Day 11: Porto, Portugal - Modern Art & Ocean Air
Serralves Foundation
Visit the contemporary art museum and its massive park. The Treetop Walk is a high-altitude walkway through the trees that kids love.
Lunch in Foz do Douro
Take the historic tram or a bus to Foz, where the river meets the ocean. It’s breezy and beautiful with flat promenades.
Sea Life Porto
If your kids loved the Lisbon Oceanário, this smaller aquarium in Foz is a great follow-up with different interactive exhibits.
Beach Walk
The beaches in Porto are rocky and dramatic. Perfect for hunting for seashells and watching the sunset.
Day 12: Lagos, Portugal - The Journey South
Drive/Train to the Algarve
This is your longest travel day (approx. 5-6 hours). If driving, stop halfway in the Alentejo region for a traditional lunch.
Arrival in Lagos
Check into your villa or resort. Lagos is the most family-friendly base in the Algarve with a historic center and great beaches.
Lagos Marina Stroll
A flat, stroller-friendly walk where you can look at the luxury yachts and enjoy a relaxed dinner.
Early Night
Rest up after the long journey and prepare for some serious beach time tomorrow.
Day 13: Lagos, Portugal - Grottoes & Gold Sand
Ponta da Piedade Boat Tour
Take a small boat tour to see the famous sea caves. Most boat operators are very accommodating with children, providing life vests.
Lunch at Praia da Batata
A beach very close to the town center with calm waters and easy access from the main road.
Praia de Dona Ana
Often cited as the most beautiful beach in the world. Note: There are stairs, so leave the stroller at the top or bring a carrier.
Explore Lagos Old Town
The city walls and pedestrian streets are filled with shops and ice cream parlors. It's safe and vibrant in the evening.
Day 14: Lagos, Portugal - Wildlife & Water Fun
Zoomarine Algarve
A short drive from Lagos, this is a marine theme park with dolphin shows, a beach with waves, and small amusement rides.
Lunch at the Park
There are numerous food courts within Zoomarine, or you can bring your own picnic to enjoy in the shaded areas.
Return to Lagos
Head back for a final dip in the hotel pool or a quiet walk along the Meia Praia beach, which is very long and flat.
Farewell Seafood Dinner
Enjoy fresh Cataplana (seafood stew) while the kids enjoy the local grilled sea bass.
Day 15: Faro, Portugal - Departure
Drive to Faro
A 1-hour drive from Lagos to the Algarve's capital. Stop at the Faro Old Town (Cidade Velha) if you have a late flight.
Faro Cathedral & Bone Chapel
A quick but interesting visit. The Bone Chapel (Capela dos Ossos) is a bit macabre but usually fascinates older children.
Last Minute Souvenirs
The pedestrian shopping streets in Faro are perfect for picking up some cork products or local pottery.
Faro Airport
Return your rental car and check in for your flight home. The airport has a good play area for kids while waiting.
Best Time to Visit Portugal
The best time for a family trip to Portugal is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching, making it comfortable for walking with strollers and exploring hilly cities. Summer (July-August) can be very hot and crowded, while winter is mild but can be rainy, especially in the north.
Currency & Money
Portugal uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most shops, hotels, and restaurants. However, it’s always wise to carry some cash for small purchases at local bakeries or for tips. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service in restaurants is common and appreciated.
Getting Around Portugal
For intercity travel, the CP (Comboios de Portugal) train network is excellent, particularly the high-speed Alfa Pendular which connects Lisbon, Coimbra, and Porto. Within cities, Uber and FreeNow are affordable and provide car-seat options in some cases. For the Algarve, renting a car is the most practical choice to visit various beaches and theme parks at your own pace. Domestic flights are available but trains are generally more convenient and scenic for this specific route.
