We’ll stake our claim: Portugal is a top contender for a first European trip with kids. It’s easy to love, easy to navigate, and packed with family-friendly charm.
To start, Portugal is the closest European getaway from the U.S. and direct flights from the East Coast make the journey a breeze. Portugal’s perfect mild Mediterranean climate means high chances of good weather year-round.Â
Despite its small size, a wide variety of experiences await on your Portugal family vacation. Explore castles, palaces, and historic sites in Lisbon. From there, venture to the Algarve’s soft, sandy, and calm beaches; enjoy the slow pace of the Alentejo countryside; take in the old-world charm and port wines of Porto; or wind through the vineyards along the Douro Valley.Â
The Portuguese lifestyle is welcoming and relaxed, and you’ll find that everywhere you go, arms open wide for kids in Portugal. Plan your Portugal family trip now for the European charm that feels both delightful and easy with kids.
Portugal was our first European destination with kids, and we fell in love. Lisbon was a delight, but our countryside stay in Alentejo really took the cake. We slowed down and found that even with kids in tow we could enjoy the wine, stunning views, and fine-dining. Our kids still remember playing hide-and-seek behind our Alentejo estate’s original foundation walls, and of course they remember the car inside the breakfast restaurant at our Lisbon family hotel. If you’re thinking of a Portugal trip with kids, take me back with you!Â
A stunning coastline, historic castles and palaces, and delicious wine
Portuguese is the most widely spoken language in Portugal.
Euros
Portugal is a compact country, just 350 miles from top to bottom. Its small size makes it easy to start in Lisbon and then reach a second destination – either Porto, the Alentejo region, or the Algarve – in under 3 hours. Warm and laid-back, you’ll feel the unhurried pace of Portugal no matter which region you visit.
Getting around Portugal with kids is easy. Major cities like Lisbon and Porto have trams, buses and metro systems, and fun options like funiculars and tuk-tuks. A car rental is the way to go for exploring beyond the cities. Driving is straightforward, with smooth, easy-to-navigate highways connecting most regions.
Pick one city and one countryside or beach destination. Don’t try to cram too much in. In Lisbon or Porto, pick a central hotel for easy exploration on foot. For your beach or countryside side stay, choose one of our favorite immersive hotels with incredible experiences designed with children in mind.
Peak Season: June to AugustÂ
Shoulder Season: April to May & September to OctoberÂ
No Go: There isn’t one! The fantastic weather makes a family trip to Portugal great year-round, although keep in mind that during November to March, there may be limited hours for some attractions.
There are direct flights to Lisbon from many major U.S. cities, including New York, DC, and Miami. If you’d rather head straight to Faro (Southern) or Porto (Northern), both have direct flights from New York
Portugal is the perfect country to dip your toes into European travel with kids. With so much to explore, you’ll want to keep coming back.Â
Sagres, Portugal
$ – most rooms under $500
$$ – most family rooms $400-$1000
$$$ – family rooms $1000+
Évora, Portugal
$ – most rooms under $500
$$ – most family rooms $400-$1000
$$$ – family rooms $1000+
Alentejo, Portugal
$ – most rooms under $500
$$ – most family rooms $400-$1000
$$$ – family rooms $1000+
Lisbon, Portugal
$ – most rooms under $500
$$ – most family rooms $400-$1000
$$$ – family rooms $1000+
The Tonies Box audio player comes with us on all trips for screen-free entertainment on the plane and much-needed afternoon downtime.
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These great stickers provide mess-free entertainment in the air, and can be reused later in the trip on hotel room windows and counters when you need to catch a break.
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Long haul flights and hotel stays completely dry you out. These travel masks are a simple trick to help you tackle travel stressors and feel great on vacation.
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Taking thousands of photos makes your phone want a nap! A portable charger is key to keeping your phone awake to navigate and photograph your family adventure.
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Get your kids excited to visit Portugal with this book about two sisters who ride Tuk-Tuks in Porto, sample Pastéis de Nata, and explore Portugal's hidden gems.
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Table of Contents If you’re coming up on a decade of marriage, chances are you have small kids at home and are in desperate need of a romantic getaway without kids. Lucky for you, we’ve got a whole slew of 10-year anniversary trip ideas. We’re ready to plan your romantic vacation when you are. Travel […]
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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 — […]
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Table of Contents If you’re searching for the perfect 4-day Lisbon itinerary for your family, you’re in the right place! In our experience, four days with kids in Lisbon hits the sweet spot. A trip of this length gives you plenty of time to explore Lisbon’s coolest neighborhoods, hop on the iconic trams, and even […]
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Table of Contents Ready to discover a city where kids can ride trams, explore castles, and snack on the world’s best pastries? Let’s plan your family holiday in Lisbon! If you haven’t thought about visiting Lisbon with kids, it’s time to rethink your family vacation plans. This city is a playground for curious children and […]
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Table of Contents Look beyond the Caribbean for your next beach vacation. These non-Caribbean beach destinations will help you shake up your next family vacation. Many of our Mango Tree families head to the Caribbean islands for their first international beach vacation with kids. And for good reason:Â The Caribbean islands are full of images of […]
Learn MoreWe traveled to Portugal as a family of 6 and went to the Algarve at Mango Tree’s recommendation. Wow – we all loved the hospitality at Sao Lourenco. We arrived on our second day in the country so jet-lag was hitting and it was so nice to have a place to feel at home. Thanks to Mango Tree, we had a welcome gift waiting for us and a private room booked for our first dinner – exactly what we needed with tired kids. The freedom of biking around the hotel grounds, the gorgeous pool (which my 14 year old said felt like a movie set), the nooks to explore, and the afternoon tea were all highlights!
Trish, Family of 6 (Spring Break 2024)
Every family deserves a beach break to escape the daily grind. From the Bahamas to Bonaire, the Caribbean is more than all-inclusive resorts—think hidden beaches, local flavors, and adventure. Picture yourself with your toes in the sand, coconut in hand, discovering something new together.
Known for its stunning Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos is a perfect choice for families seeking a luxury Caribbean getaway. Its calm waters, luxury resorts with kids' clubs, and easy access from major U.S. cities make it an ideal spot for toddlers and young kids. Plus, there’s plenty of beachfront dining and activities to keep the whole family entertained.
For families seeking adventure and an authentic Caribbean experience, Grenada is a hidden gem. Known as the Spice Island, it offers lush rainforests, waterfalls, and the calm, kid-friendly waters of Grand Anse Beach. Grenada is perfect for families of all ages who want a mix of relaxation and outdoor exploration.
