20 Best Family Vacation Destinations in Portugal
1. DOURO RIVER
Douro is a tourist location that is very suitable to be visited with your family to get coolness and peace of mind. The river water flows from its source not far from Duruelo de la Sierra in the province of Soria. And it is known that at this location, there are 15 dams whose construction is above the Douro.
The function of the dam is of course to regulate the flow of water and generate hydroelectric power. Nature excursions on the 3rd longest river after Ebro and Tagus in the 897 kilometers long Iberian Peninsula will not make you regret. This river is one of the best destinations you can visit in Portugal for family vacation.
Douro River
2. LISBON OCEANARIUM
The Lisbon Oceanarium is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe and is located in Lisbon, precisely in Parque das Nacoes. Arriving at this place, your family will be surprised by the architectural design that is so conceptual and is indeed built like the structure and shape of an airplane.
Peter Chermayeff is the one who designed this oceanarium building and he is also known as the designer of the Osaka Oceanarium (one of the largest aquariums in the world). This oceanarium allows you to see the beauty of marines life. Bringing kids to this place is going to be the best day to have. You can consider this place as your must visit places in Lisbon.
The Lisbon Oceanarium
3. JERóNIMOS MONASTERY
Jeronimos Monastery or Hieronymites Monastery is a monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome which is located not far from the beach of the Belem parish. You will only be satisfied after a building tour. It is mandatory to come to this place because apart from being one of the examples of buildings in the Manueline Gothic style, this location has also been included in the list of UNESCO world heritage sites in 1983.
Since it is one of the Unesco's list of heritage, you will be able to join a building tour. A licensed tour guide will take you to the whole building and explain the history of the monastery. You can also take your kids to see the artifacts and ancient ruins of the building. It is considered as one of the best historical and cultural site to visit in Portugal.
Jeronimos Monastery
4. CLERIGOS CHURCH
Clerigos Church is a Baroque church that has a high bell tower and attracts the most attention of tourists. The tower is known as the Torre dos Clerigos and can be seen from various corners of the city wherever you are making this tower one of the distinctive symbols. This church has existed since the 18th century and was specially designed by Nicolau Nasoni for clergy.
As one of the icon of Porto, this church is one of your best destinations. Its tall tower is the main object that you can see from the city. The Baroque architecture style is also the best thing you can enjoy. Taking some family pictures with the church as the background is a good idea!
Clérigos Church
5. PORTO CATHEDRAL
Porto Cathedral can be visited in the historical center of the city of Porto. And the reason why this site is a must-visit for family vacation is because this cathedral is one of the oldest monuments of the city and the most important Roman monument in Portugal. The most recent cathedral was under construction in 1110 and was completed in the 13th century under the patronage of Bishop Hugo.
A trip to this area will give you the opportunity to capture the cathedral building with its Baroque terrace and beautiful Roman-style windows. Besides, you can still see the remaining style of the ancient kingdom that rules Portugal in the old days. It will be an interesting historical and cultural trip you can have with your family.
Porto Cathedral
6. MADEIRA
If you have a hobby of hiking, you shouldn't miss Madeira because this island –which is filled with mountains, fauna, flora, and forests, is perfect as a place for fun hiking. The rich ecosystem and the vastness of the Luurisilva forest make this spot one of the UNESCO world heritage ranks.
For those who like to swim can also do this activity right on the north side of Madeira which is a volcanic saltwater pool and is known to have originated from Porto Moniz. This island also has very attractive beaches, you will be satisfied because you can dive and watch the action of whales and dolphins. It is guaranteed that your family vacation in Madeira will be lots of fun!
Madeirã
7. MARVAO
Marvao is a village in Portugal which is about 900 meters above sea level. Standing on a hill, the buildings in this village generally have a medieval-style building style. So, it is very worthwhile to take many pictures with your family when you arrive in this village. There is also a 13th-century castle which makes this village even more unique and special.
The vast country of Portugal, along with Mount Estrela and the country of Spain can be seen from this Marvao village while enjoying food made by local residents. You can try to stop at the restaurant nearby and enjoying a beautiful view from your seat. It is the best thing you can get when traveling to Marvao with your family!
Marvão
8. CASA DA MUSICA STATION
Casa de Musica Station is a building used for music concerts located in Porto. This place is also known as a cultural institution whose building was designed by Rem Koolhaas, a Dutch architect. Casa de Musica is now considered one of the icons of the city of Porto with a large auditorium that can offer 1,300 seats. This is the only concert hall that has two walls made of glass.
Its thick Dutch architecture style gives an impression of the classic musical theater. This building is one of the notable landmark in Portugal. You can get around the building and do sightseeing to its magnificent building. Taking your family to this place is recommended to get the best experience!
Casa da Musica
9. GUIMARAES CASTLE
Guimaraes Castle is the main medieval castle in the city of Guimaraes. The palace is quite old because it was built in the 10th century under orders from Mumadona Dias. This castle is indeed quite isolated as it is located on a small hill that is created naturally from granite and a small forest garden that surrounds it. Don't worry, there are a number of pedestrian paths that can be taken to access this location.
The most interesting way to enjoy the castle is by walking around. The path for pedestrian is available that requires you to give a little extra energy. So, you will be needed to prepare some drinks while walking around the castle.
Guimarães Castle
10. AZORES
The Azores are a volcanic crater in the Azores city. It was the volcanic eruptions that finally created this amazing island from several hundred years ago. There are 9 islands that were formed and are still in the same area as the Azores. Villa Franka do Campo Island is the most popular in the region, so it is a must for you to visit this place with your family.
You can't explore the whole nine islands in juts a day, yet it takes more. But you can just take a little a while at the best island of Villa Franka do Campo. Its beautiful scenic landscapes is the best attractions you can enjoy. If you're coming with family, this island is the most suitable place to spend your time.
Azores
11. VICENTIN BEACH
Vicentin Beach is a beach area with beautiful white sand. This place will be very crowded with tourists, especially during summer. To reach this beach is not difficult at all! And when you arrive at this beach, you and your family will find a million untold beauty. Starting from the view of a number of rock cliffs where the waves seems to be painting thereby scraping it slowly to enjoy delicious food in the beach area while dancing to the music.
The typical powdery sand in this beach is your best thing to have. You can walk around or playing around with kids along the coast. Its warm and turquoise water will give the best experience in Vicentin Beach. So, planning to spend the summer in this beach?
Vicentin Beach (Rota Vicentina)
12. SINTRA
Sintra is one of the cities in Portugal which has a UNESCO world heritage site, namely a castle called Palacio National da Pena. This city is also famous for its romantic atmosphere because there are beautiful buildings whose architectural designs combine Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Gothic styles which are truly extraordinary.
All ancient items are still preserved and well preserved today, such as tableware and a number of paintings. It has plenty of ancient artifacts you can find with beautiful arts. If you love photography, then Sintra will be your best spot to get many great pictures. No doubt about it!
Sintra
13. ROMAN TEMPLE OF EVORA
Roman Temple of Evora can also be said to be in the form of a shrine or temple and has another well-known name, namely Templo de Diana. This building is not a new building, but is an ancient building in the city of Evora. Considered one of the most important landmarks in relation to the Lusitania and Roman civilization of Evora in the Portuguese region, it is not surprising that this spot was finally included in the UNESCO classification of world heritage sites because it is part of the historical center of the city as well. Totally recommended for a family vacation!
In this place, you can still find the ruins and the remaining of the old Roman civilization. For those who love history and archaeology, this site is the best place. You can learn about the ancient Roman and Lusitania age by looking at the shape and form of the building. It is absolutely recommended to put in your bucket lists!
Templo Romano Évora
14. VISEU
Viseu is one of the tourist destinations in Portugal that must be visited while on vacation. This is because, the city is known as a historical center, and one of its highlights is the magnificent 12th-century Cathedral. Being on a hill, it gives the city of Viseu a beautiful surrounding view. Getting around Viseu is a fun way to spend a weekend with your family in Portugal!
Portugal has plenty of historical sites and Viseu is one of them. So, if you prefer to have a historical trip with family, you have to included this city for your next trip in Portugal. Because there's plenty of things you can get in this place.
Viseu
15. LEIRIA
Leira is another destination in Portugal with the main attraction being the castle which sits on a hill overlooking the city. With trees popping up around the ancient walls, this makes the castle looks as if it comes out of a fairy tale. From the castle itself, there was a view of Leiria below. Apart from that, the city also has several museums to explore and several beaches that are worth visiting with your family!
This another worth visiting place in Portugal offers you the best thing to have. Beaches, museum, castles, and many more are here for you to explore. Especially if you want to make your kids love history, Leiria is your best spot to find out!
Leiria
16. LISBON
Lisbon is known for its wealth of historical sites and beautiful views along the Tagus River. Lisbon also has a chalice that sits on top of a hill and overlooks the city, known as George Castle. Apart from that, you should also visit the beautiful Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery with your family. Some of these things make Lisbon one of the best tourist attractions in Portugal that you must visit.
Lisbon is world-widely known as one of Portugal's best destination. Many beautiful and iconic landmarks are here to explore. Getting around the city in one day sounds not enough. So, if you want to explore the whole city and get your best experience, you'd better to plan it for at least in three days trip!
Lisbon
17. ERICEIRA
Ericeira is a small fishing village and has great waves for surfing activities. The village is also within easy reach of Lisbon and is a must to visit with your family. Apart from being suitable for surfing activities, this village also has the Ericeira Restaurant, which is one of the best places to enjoy fresh and appetizing Portuguese seafood.
Seafood in Ericeira is undoubtedly one of the best recommendation in Portugal. If you're traveling with family, the nearby restaurants in Ericeria's coastline has your best dish for Portuguese seafood. So, culinary trip in Portugal will be good enough to visit Ericeira.
Ericeira
18. ALGARVE
The Algarve is one of the best tourist destinations in Portugal for hiking, not to mention its relaxing beautiful beaches. In the Algarve, you can visit some beautiful beaches and stunning cliffs, such as Camilo Beach in Lagos with your family. This place offers a beautiful view of the beach from the top of the cliff. You can relax at a beachside restaurant while enjoying the gentle breeze.
Beaches in Algarve are dominated by clear and turquoise water. In summer, the water will feel warm that will make you more relaxed. So, if you're coming to Portugal and looking for a place to have family time, Algarve is highly recommended!
Algarve (Faro District)
19. ALENTEJO
Alentejo is the right place for those of you who want a family vacation location with a calm atmosphere. The regional capital, Évora, is a beautiful place, full of history and a mysterious nature that makes it the perfect Halloween destination. In this area, you can visit several historical sites, such as the Roman Temple or Évora Cathedral, or visit one of the most unique hotels in Alentjo. Évora and nearby villages are ideal retreats to relax with your family!
Alentejo is another city where you can enjoy and witness the remaining Roman buildings such as Evora Cathedral. Its thick Roman influence is still can be seen from the shape of the buildings. No wonder many tourists visit Alentejo to see the Roman buildings that are still well preserved.
Alentejo
20. COIMBRA
Coimbra is a tourist destination in Portugal that you must visit for historical tours with your family. Coimbra is home to a large number of Roman and medieval ruins, which once served as the nation's capital. Among the most visited tourist attractions is the University of Coimbra, which is one of the oldest continuously operating degree-seeking institutions in the world.
Coimbra is your another must visit family destinations in Portugal. You can visit its oldest university in Portugal, the Coimbra University. The building of this university is claimed as one of the oldest in the world. Learning about the history will be easier by seeing the building itself, tho. So, get ready and take your family to this city of Coimbra!
Coimbra
