The Best Family Hotels in Portugal

November 17, 2024

Family trip to Lisbon with Kids

Table of Contents

The best family hotels in Portugal are incredible. Frankly, these properties are reason alone to pick Portugal as your first European destination with kids.

We can’t wait to introduce you to some of our favorite Portugal hotels for families. These gems — from city stays to country estates to beach resorts — will delight the whole family and give you the chance to truly immerse yourself in Portugal’s beauty and culture. 

Portugal is hands down one of our favorite European destinations for families — especially when kids are young.  It’s just a short 6-7 hours from the East Coast, with many direct flights. The shorter overnight flight can help ease your nerves (and make jet lag easier) if you’re dreading meltdowns on that first red-eye with kids.

Portugal is an easy-to-get-to European destination with a local culture that’s extremely welcoming of children. Our favorite Portugal hotels offer families a chance to slow down, feel a true sense of place, and enjoy time together (and even some time apart!).

Where you stay in Portugal can make or break your family trip.  You need to pick a destination that matches the type of family trip you’re looking for, whether it’s a city stay plus a beach escape or a getaway to the countryside.  

Wine tasting, fine-dining, hiking and adventure, history: Portugal has it all, but you can’t cram it all into one trip. We want to get you to the right part of Portugal – and the right hotel – for your family for this trip.   

Since we’re in the business of helping you make each family trip your best yet, let’s take a look at where you should visit and some of the best places to stay in Portugal with kids. 

Bottom Line
These best family-friendly resorts in Portugal make family travel easy!

Top-Level Luxury ($$$)

São Lourenço do Barrocal |  READ OUR PROFILE | (Alentejo)

Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon (Lisbon)

Six Senses Douro Valley (Duoro Valley)

Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa (Algarve)

**Get $100 resort credit and complimentary breakfast when you book these Portugal luxury family resorts through Mango Tree. Learn more

 

Delightful ($$)

Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Luxury Hotel & Apartments |  READ OUR PROFILE  |  (Lisbon)

Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort (Algarve)

Octant Douro Valley |  READ OUR PROFILE  |  (Duoro  Valley)

Octant Évora |  READ FULL PROFILE |  (Alentejo)

Rebello Hotel & Spa (Porto)

Craveiral Farmhouse (Algarve)

Boutique and Affordable ($)

Noah’s Surf House (Santa Cruz) 

Where Should I Visit in Portugal with Kids? 

With so many incredible regions, figuring out where to stay in Portugal for families can feel a little (or a lot) overwhelming.  

At Mango Tree, we always recommend a slow approach to family travel in Europe: Most families will head to Portugal for 7-8 nights, in which case we recommend no more than two stops, one city stay, and one countryside or rural experience in a one-week trip. 

Don’t think of this as the only time you’ll visit Portugal with kids – think of it as your first experience, and know that you’ll see other regions on your next trip when you fall in love with this beautiful country. 

For your first family trip to Portugal, start with a few days in Lisbon, where history and culture meet modern city vibes. Then, choose one other region that fits your family’s interests and travel style to create the perfect Portugal family vacation. 

If you want to really slow down and feel like you’re part of the local culture and don’t want to travel too far from Lisbon, head east to the Alentejo region (2 hours) for an immersive countryside experience with wine, olives, animals, and stunning landscapes.  

If you’re in need of a beach, the Algarve in the South (2.5 hours) is the most popular region for family-friendly beach resorts in Portugal.  For surfing in Portugal, head north of Lisbon to Santa Cruz, just an hour away. 

For a romantic, small city that’s easy to love, head a little further north by train (3.5 hours) or car (3 hours) to Porto.  From there, you’ll also have easy access to the Duoro Valley, Portugal’s famous wine region, with sprawling hills and river cruises at your fingertips. 

Each of these regions is only a few hours from Lisbon!  Resist the temptation to try to conquer them all. Slow down, pick one, and you won’t spend too much of your vacation on a train or in the car.  Instead, you can discover slow travel in Portugal together, with the time to take it all in. 

Getting around Lisbon

1. Lisbon: The Best Luxury Hotels for Families in the City 

Lisbon has a couple of the best family hotels in Portugal, and is a great city to start your family trip. We recommend three to four days in the capital city, with one of these luxury Portugal family hotels as your home base.

City view from Martinhal Chiado
Photo courtesy of Martinhal Resorts

Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Luxury Hotel & Apartments

The Martinhal Hotels are hands down our favorite family-friendly accommodations in Portugal, and the Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Luxury Hotel & Apartments tops the list. This is THE place to stay if you want to live like a Libson local in a central location but with five-star perks and child care! 

Martinhal Chiado is located in the trendy Chiado district, right in the heart of Lisbon, with easy access to the city’s best shops, restaurants, and attractions. The spacious 1- and 2-bedroom apartments are designed with families in mind and may be bigger than your first apartment.  

But what makes Maritinhal Chiado one of the top family hotels in Portugal is the Kids’ Club—a total lifesaver if you have little kids. It is huge, runs all day—with evening hours and a Pyjama Club—and is the perfect place to drop kids off for a few hours to unwind while you explore the city at a faster pace. 

Book Martinhal Chiado through our complimentary booking service and receive a curated Lisbon Dining Guide for Families from Mango Tree. 

Where to stay in portugal for families
Photo Courtesy of Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon

Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon

If you’re looking for more of a classic luxury family hotel in Portugal, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon nails it. While it’s a little further from Lisbon’s city hustle than the Martinhal, it’s right next to Eduardo VII Park, a huge green space where your kids can burn off energy after a day of sightseeing. 

The Four Seasons always makes sure families are taken care of with thoughtful touches like welcome gifts, child-sized bathrobes, and all the baby gear you might need. At the Lisbon property, the indoor heated pool is a huge hit with families.  

The Four Seasons also has a babysitting service so that parents can sneak off to the spa or out to dinner in town. It’s a mix of world-class luxury and family-friendly comfort, making it easy to explore Lisbon with the whole crew while still squeezing in some relaxation.

Use our complimentary booking service to receive $100 resort credit, breakfast included, and a top spot on the upgrade list at Four Seasons Hotel Ritz.  

Alentejo Region Portugal

2. Alentejo: The Best Countryside Resorts In Portugal For Families 

The Alentejo region of Portugal is just a two-hour drive east of Lisbon, and this is a region that knows how to do slow travel right. Head here to discover an immersive experience at a countryside estate that you and the kids will cherish for years to come. 

Kids at Sao Lourenco do Barrocal

São Lourenço do Barrocal 

São Lourenço do Barrocal is an absolute gem for families looking to unplug and experience the real Portugal. It’s not just one of the best luxury family resorts in Portugal – it’s one of the best hotels in the world, period

The gorgeous estate is basically one giant playground for kids and parents alike. They’ll love the farm animals, riding bikes around the property, and splashing in the pool. You will love the delicious wine, olive oil, sunset picnics, and incredible spa.  The attention to detail, the landscaping, and the ethos of this property cannot be overstated. 

São Lourenço do Barroca is 110%  a magical, luxury family hotel in Portugal and will make your vacation absolutely unforgettable. 

Use our complimentary booking service to receive $100 resort credit, breakfast included, and a top spot on the upgrade list at São Lourenço do Barrocal .  

Family Friendly hotel in Portugal - Octant Évora
Photo Courtesy of Octant Hotels

Octant Évora

If you’re dreaming of an escape to the Alentejo but São Lourenço do Barrocal isn’t quite in the budget, Octant Évora – just down the road – is one of the best child-friendly hotels in Portugal at a more moderate budget and with modern décor. 

Octant Evora may not be a historic estate with hundreds of years of history but it’s full of charm, great food, and tons of open spaces where kids can run free.  The property is all about flexibility and ease, with a pool and restaurant that never close and staff who go out of their way to make even the pickiest eaters happy. 

The rooms and villas at Octant Evora are designed for family comfort. Family rooms have bunk beds and direct pool access, while villas offer more space, kitchens, and private pools with countryside views. 

The on-site restaurant, A Terra, serves up fresh, local flavors straight from the hotel’s own organic garden, olive groves, and fruit trees, giving you a true taste of the Alentejo region. This hotel truly is a breath of fresh air!

Book Octant Evora through our complimentary booking service and receive a curated Alentejo Dining Guide for Families from Mango Tree. 

Best Family Hotels in Portugal

3. Algarve: The Best Luxury Beach Resorts in Portugal for Families

Just about 2.5 hours away, the Algarve is a beach-lovers paradise! If your family loves those sunny days by the sea, this is the place to be. And home to the best resorts in Portugal for families, you’ll have that perfect mix of luxury and relaxation. 

Best Hotels for Families in Portugal
Photo Couresy of Vila Vita Parc Resort

Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa

Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa is widely recognized as the ultimate luxury family resort in the Algarve region of Portugal. Perched on the cliffs of Porches, this huge resort gives you direct beach access and those breathtaking ocean views that make you feel like you’re truly away from it all. Plus, it’s just far enough from the busy tourist spots, so you can unwind while still being close to the Algarve’s best sites. 

If a larger resort full of activities is your style, Vila Vita Parc will be the right fit for your ultimate family beach vacation in the Algarve. There are six pools, watersports, tennis, a relaxing spa, and a kids’ club packed with fun, themed activities like cooking classes, treasure hunts, and mini golf.  And with nine restaurants on-site, you can have anything from casual beach bites to fancy dinners. 

The accommodations for families include everything from spacious suites to multi-bedroom villas with private pools.

Use our complimentary booking service to receive $100 resort credit, breakfast included, and a top spot on the upgrade list at Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa.  

Martinhal Sagres Portugal
Photo Courtesy of Martinhal Resorts

Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort

Some families are drawn to larger resorts like Vila Vita Parc, but if you’re like us, and partial to boutique hotels with kids and a family-centric vibe, the Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort may be more your style. 

This resort sits on a stunning stretch of coastline in the protected Costa Vicentina natural park, in a quieter section of the Algarve. You’ll find chic hotel rooms that are easier on the budget, but the real stars are the villas, each with a full kitchen and private pool, so your family can truly take this trip at your own pace. 

True to the Martinhal brand, kids are treated like VIPs here, from babies to teens. The Kids’ Club is fantastic and there are tons of activities to keep everyone entertained: a BMX track, family spa treatments, the Blue Room for downtime, mini golf, a playground with trampoline, five pools, and of course, easy beach access. It’s luxury designed for the whole family, proving that a resort can be just as fun for kids as it is for adults. 

Book Martinhal Chiado through our complimentary booking service and receive a curated Algarve Dining Guide for Families from Mango Tree. 

Best Family Hotels in Portugal

4. Porto: A Kid Friendly Hotel in a Romantic City 

If you are city people at heart, head from Lisbon to Porto to see what’s arguably Portugal’s most popular city.  Here you’ll experience a slower-pace and eminently walkable town, known for its spectacular sunsets.  Here is our top, stellar family friendly hotel to call home-away-from-home during your visit to Porto. 

Best place to stay in Portugal
Photo Courtesy of Rebello Hotel

Rebello Hotel & Spa

The new Rebello Hotel & Spa in Porto is the perfect blend of urban charm and family-friendly luxury. It sits right on the banks of the Douro River, where you can soak in breathtaking views of Porto’s skyline. It is chic yet laid-back, providing the yin to your yang after a visit to more lively Lisbon. Plus, it’s a short walk to the iconic Ribeira district, so you are right in the middle of all the action. 

Rebello’s family suites and apartments are large, and many offer kitchenettes, so mealtimes can be as flexible as you need. The hotel’s on-site restaurant even serves delicious flavors with a kid-friendly twist, and the rest of Porto’s amazing food scene is right at your doorstep. 

But the thoughtful extras really makes Rebello shine as one of the best hotels for families in Portugal. In addition to a cool welcome kit and mini robes, there is a cozy kids’ playroom, heated indoor pool that is perfect for year-round swimming, and even nanny services to give you more flexibility when visiting Porto. Your little “rebels” will feel right at home.

Use our complimentary booking service to receive $50 resort credit, breakfast included, and a top spot on the upgrade list at Rebello Hotel & Spa.  

Douro Valley Portugal

5. Douro Valley: Low-Key Luxury Family Hotels With Wine and Valley Views

With a short 45 – 90 minute drive from Porto, it’s easy to combine a trip to Porto with the Douro Valley. If you like cities, base yourself in Porto and take a day trip or two into the Douro Valley. But, since you’ll already be coming from a city experience in Lisbon, we recommend staying in one of these amazing and relaxing Douro Valley hotels and instead, take a day trip into Porto. You’ll love the breath of fresh air that is the Douro Valley and will still be able to hit the top spots in Porto. 

Best resorts in Portugal for families
Photo Courtesy of Six Senses Resorts

Six Senses Douro Valley

The reputation of the Six Senses Douro Valley stretches far and wide among luxury travel enthusiasts.  Arriving at this property is like stepping into a family-friendly fairytale, set amidst vineyards and the stunning Douro River.  About an hour from Porto, this hotel is one of the best luxury family hotels in Portugal, hands down. 

What really makes this place exceptional is the focus on wellness. After the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, this hotel is all about unplugging, recharging, and just soaking up the peaceful surroundings. Your kids can do yoga, try their hand at tile painting, or climb trees – with pool time and garden visits sprinkled in between. The activity hut is packed with toys and games, and you can grab a picnic to explore the gorgeous grounds.

Parents, you’ll want to make the most of the babysitting service here. It’s your chance to slip away from a little wine tasting or relax and what might just be the best spa in Portugal. This is the kind of hotel that will make you want to extend your vacation or never come home.

Use our complimentary booking service to receive $100 resort credit, breakfast included, and a top spot on the upgrade list at Six Senses Douro Valley.  

Best places for families in Portugal
Photo Courtesy of Octant Hotels

Octant Douro Valley

Six Senses is the creme de la creme of Douro Valley hotels, but families also absolutely love the Octant Douro Valley for a family escape in Portugal’s wine country. Just 45 minutes from Porto, this hotel offers a peaceful, scenic retreat tucked into the valley – but one that’s easy to reach with kids. 

The Octant Hotel is built into the hillside, with jaw-dropping river views from every corner. While there certainly are activities in the nearby region, the beauty of this place will entice you to just stay put and recharge. With all the rooms facing out to the valley, you’ll have a front-row seat to those views—even during naptime. 

Octant Douro Valley has that cozy yet luxe feel, so parents can enjoy a little pampering while the kids have a blast. You can dine at farm-to-table A Terra or take it up a notch at the Michelin-starred restaurant on-site. The kid-friendly pool is perfect for splashing around, and there’s a quiet adults-only pool for some “me” time (and so your kids won’t annoy the honeymooners).  

The family-friendly activities at Octant Duoro Valley take complete advantage of the unique location. You can hit the hiking trails along the river or head out on the water – there are free paddleboards and kayaks for hotel guests. And for a real show-stopper, hop on a classic Rabelo boat or watch the sunset from the Terrace pool. It’s the kind of memory-making stuff family vacations are all about. 

Book Octant Duoro Valley through our complimentary booking service and receive a curated Duoro Valley Dining Guide for Families from Mango Tree.  

Family Friendly Hotels Portugal

6. Best Hotels for Families in Portugal For Something Completely Unique

Most families will head to one of the regions of Portugal we’ve already touched on – the classic destinations of Lisbon, Porto, Algarve, and Alentejo.  But there are a handful of other unique family hotels in Portugal that we encourage you to consider for a completely special experience. Here are two we have our eyes on: 

Craveiral Farmhouse Portugal
Photo Courtesy of Craveiral Farmhouse

Craveiral Farmhouse 

Craveiral Farmhouse is one of those hidden gems you might not immediately think of for a family getaway, but once you’re there, you’ll wonder why you didn’t book it sooner. It’s technically in Alentejo but closer to the coast, nearly in the Algarve region. 

Craveiral offers charming farmhouse vibes, local food, and lots of outdoor space for the kids to run wild.  The activities are hands-on, keeping kids engaged with pizza-making workshops, tours of the vegetable garden, or visits with the farm animals. The indoor and outdoor pools provide a year-round swimming option and provided bikes make it easy to explore the property. 

You’re also near a beach! Two undeveloped, slightly wild beaches within a 15-minute drive from Craveiral mean you get the countryside immersion and a taste of the sea in the same location. 

If you’re looking for white linen and turndown service luxury, you won’t find it here. But for families eager to slow down and take pleasure in some of life’s simple luxuries, you’ll adore the rustic charm of Craveiral Farmhouse. Its simplicity is what makes it one of the best hotels in Portugal for families.

Book Craveiral Farmhouse through our complimentary booking service and receive a curated Algarve Dining Guide for Families from Mango Tree. 

Noah's Surf House
Photo Courtesy of Noah's Surf House

Noah’s Surf House

If you’re looking for a family trip with older kids reminiscent of your carefree backpacking days – but with kids in tow – head just north of Lisbon to Noah’s Surf House in Santa Cruz.  Santa Cruz is known for its surf breaks and natural rock formations, creating a breathtaking backdrop for beachgoers. 

This hotel in the cliffs oozes cool surfer vibes without trying too hard. It’s super laid-back, with quirky bungalows that look out over the ocean, and it’s all about getting back to nature. If your family is into surfing or even just chilling by the beach, this could be a great pairing with Lisbon for your Portugal family trip. 

What makes Noah’s one of the best family hotels in Portugal is that it’s designed to be fun without being fussy. This place isn’t about luxury in the traditional sense – it’s more about creating cool, memorable experiences. 

You’ve got surf lessons for all ages, beach games, and a super friendly community vibe. There are also so many not-your-typical-run-of-the-mill activities like graffiti painting, baking chocolate salami, gathering fresh eggs from the chicken coop, and singing around the firepit that will make your experience absolutely unforgettable. One of the best places to surf in Portugal plus a great place to stay with kids means a fantastic family vacation. 

Book Noah Surf House through our complimentary booking service and receive a curated Santa Cruz Dining Guide for Families from Mango Tree. 

Keep Exploring: Take a spin through our Portugal Destination Page

Still Looking for the Best Family Hotels in Portugal? We Can Help. 

If you’re still scratching your head wondering which of these luxury family hotels in Portugal is for you, don’t worry.  We’re here to help you navigate the best family-friendly hotel options in Portugal. With so many fantastic regions and unique accommodations to choose from, we can guide you in finding the sweet spot when it comes to your Portugal trip with kids. 

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