Tips I Wish I Knew Before Portugal with babies, toddlers, and litte kids

We spent 3 months exploring Portugal with our two kids and it was an AMAZING time. We’ve LOVED Portugal’s family-friendly culture, beautiful sights, and unique experiences, BUT we’ve learned aling with kids here in Portugal lot about travefrom taking little trips all over the country, so today I want to share what I WISH I knew before coming to this amazing country.

First off, you gotta get here.

The major airports are generally family-friendly, offering family security lines and even strollers in the Lisbon airport. Once you arrive, Portugal offers plenty of transportation options, but there are pros and cons to each so let’s go through those. Public transport is pretty good here although 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 are available, but car seats are not always provided, and even for short rides, they are legally required. Since we were here so long we ended up buying car seats and personally decided renting a car was the way to go for us.

Kid-Friendly Essentials for Visiting Cities

Portugal’s cities tend to be SUPER hilly!!! This and the car seat situation have been the two most challenging barriers to overcome here. We brought our double stroller and I honestly regret it a bit because it’s just been so difficult for me to get up these hills. We’ve been using a carrier a good bit and I think we would’ve been better off with a single lightweight, compact stroller and a baby carrier because of the narrow streets and cobblestone paths. Many parks, museums, and public buildings offer accessible ramps and pathways, but some historic sites may be tricky to navigate.

Also, public restrooms aren’t always available, so it’s helpful to plan stops in places like cafes or restaurants or while you’re at the tourist spots to avoid a bathroom emergency.

Top Kid-Friendly Destinations & Activities

Portugal offers plenty of fun destinations that are perfect for families. Lisbon is home to the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of Europe’s largest aquariums, and the Jardim Zoológico, a wonderful zoo. In Sintra, visiting the castles is a must; Pena Palace is really nice and Quinta da Regaleira is our absolute favorite. Most tourist spots are quite welcoming to families, though some castles have steep climbs, so plan to bring a baby carrier for the day if needed.

Family-Friendly Culture

One of the highlights of Portugal is the warm, welcoming nature of the people. The Portuguese are known for their family-centered culture and genuinely embrace children in most settings. Don’t be surprised if restaurant staff or even locals stop to chat with your kids or offer help. It’s common for kids to get extra attention, and there are several customs that families will find delightful, such as being offered priority in lines at certain attractions and stations. Portuguese dining can be late in the evening, so it’s helpful to keep that in mind for bedtime schedules.

Food & Dining Out

Portuguese food is both delicious and generally family-friendly. Many restaurants offer a good range of options that even picky eaters might enjoy, such as grilled chicken, rice, and bread. Seafood is a staple here, and while some dishes might be adventurous for younger kids, there are plenty of simpler options available. Family-friendly dining is easy to find, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.

Don’t forget to try pasteis de nata—Portugal’s famous custard tart, which is usually a hit with kids and adults alike!

Packing Tips for Parents

Packing for Portugal with kids requires a few key items that can make a big difference. The sun can be quite strong, so a high-SPF sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing are must-haves. Since the weather can change, especially along the coast, bring layers to keep kids comfortable. Comfortable shoes are essential for both parents and kids, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking, often on cobblestones. If you have a toddler or baby, a lightweight, compact stroller will come in handy for urban exploring, as well as a baby carrier for less accessible sites.

General Parenting Tips

Traveling to Portugal with kids can feel like an adventure, but pacing is key. To avoid travel burnout, plan for rest days between sightseeing excursions. Portuguese culture generally takes a slower, more relaxed pace, and your itinerary will be more enjoyable if you follow this rhythm. Building in some flexibility helps, especially with young kids who might need more downtime or regular naps. Embrace this time to just enjoy being in a new place, whether that’s a quiet afternoon in a park, a scenic viewpoint, or even a leisurely snack break at a café.