The Best Things to Do With Family in Portugal
![Portugals diversity of attractions make it a perfect country to visit with the family](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jfdd0rw.webp)
Portugal has everything you and your family could wish for on holiday — beautiful beaches, stunning nature, enchanting architecture and themed amusement parks for fun days out. From bookworms to adrenaline-lovers, there really is something for everyone. Here’s our pick of top family-oriented activities.
1. Spend the day at the beach
Natural Feature
![Praia da Comporta in afternoon sun, Comporta, Troia peninsula, Setubal district, Lisbon region, Portugal, Europe](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/r1ge5k.webp)
The whole country stretches along the coast, which means there’s a wide range of stunning beach options. Which beach you choose will depend on your kids’ ages and temperaments. Favourites among local families include Tavira Island Beach, Comporta Beach at the base of the Troia Peninsula, Praia da Franquia and the Praia da Mira, between Figueira da Foz and Aveiro. From gathering seashells to trying watersports like surfing and kitesurfing, there are activities for everyone.
2. See local marine life at Lisbon Oceanarium
Aquarium, Building
![A man and two young boys looking at the biggest fish Oceanario in Lisbon,Portugal.](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/drx0fb.webp)
3. Come to face to face with wildlife at Jardim Zoológico
Zoo
![Brown bear (Ursus arctos) at Lisbon Zoo, Portugal](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/rdfry4.webp)
4. Stroll through Portugal dos Pequenitos
Park, University
![Portugal dos Pequenitos in Coimbra, Portugal. Image shot 02/2017. Exact date unknown.](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jfdd0r.webp)
5. Go castle-hopping in Sintra
Natural Feature
![Panoramic view of the Pena Palace.Sintra, Portugal](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2ak4tee.webp)
Sintra, a fairytale town dotted with castles, palaces and enchanting woods, is a must-visit for families. Step inside buildings such as the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira and descend into its enigmatic caves and tunnels. Or wander through the historic Pena Palace, which resembles a Disney palace with its turrets and different colours. The centre of town is also worth exploring, and the traditional sweets are a must-try.
6. Walk along the city walls of Óbidos
Historical Landmark
![View of Obidos from the city wall, Castelo de Obidos, Obidos Castle, Obidos, Leiria District, Pinhal Litoral, Portugal.](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/ebcfb8.webp)
Tip: Although this is a fun and unique experience, the high walls lack side barriers/protective rails, so it’s best to go with older children who are more likely to pay attention to their footing. It may also not be the best activity for anyone with vertigo.
7. Go hiking in the Serra da Arrábida
Park, Natural Feature
![Tranquil walking trail along Serra do Louro mountain range, Arrabida Nature Park. Palmela, Portugal](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2c2b91b.webp)
8. Explore the twisting caverns of Grutas de Mira
Natural Feature
![Mira de Aire, Portugal, April 2018: Interior view to Grutas Mira de Aire cave in Portugal](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2c7234r.webp)
9. Buy a book from the Harry Potter bookstore
Bookstore
![Porto, Portugal. 6th Mar, 2020. The Livraria Lello Bookshop in Porto, Portugal, March 6, 2020. The bookshop, founded in 1906, is so popular that people buy tickets for 5 Euros and stand in line for admission. J. K. Rowling is thought to have gained inspir](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2bahwpx.webp)
This list only scratches the surface, and it’s best to decide which area to visit first before making a plan. Here are more suggestions in the Algarve, parks to see around Lisbon and country-wide road trip ideas.