Porto with Kids: Activities, Tips, and More

Porto, Portugal, is a wonderful destination for families with young children, offering a mix of rich history, charming streets, scenic views, and kid-friendly attractions. From exploring historic sites to relaxing at beautiful parks, Porto provides a range of activities that will make your family vacation memorable. If you're traveling with babies or toddlers, Babonbo is here to help with baby gear rentals, including strollers, car seats, and travel cots, so you can enjoy home-like comfort while exploring this beautiful city.

Activities for Families in Porto

Porto is a vibrant city with activities that both kids and parents will enjoy. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, here are some top family-friendly activities in Porto:

1. Jardins do Palácio de Cristal (Crystal Palace Gardens)

The Crystal Palace Gardens are a perfect spot for families to spend a relaxing day. With wide open spaces, playgrounds, and beautiful views of the Douro River, it's an ideal location for a family picnic. The park is stroller-friendly, making it easy to explore with young children, and the kids can enjoy the playful atmosphere while parents can relax and take in the stunning landscape.

2. Serralves Museum and Park

The Serralves Museum and its surrounding park is a great destination for families interested in art and nature. The museum offers contemporary art exhibits, but the real draw for families is the expansive park. Kids will love the wide open spaces and paths to explore, and there’s even a treehouse to discover. It’s the perfect place for kids to run around and enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of shade and resting spots for parents.

3. Porto's Ribeira District

The historic Ribeira District, located along the Douro River, is a charming place to stroll with kids. The colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and riverfront views create a lively and picturesque setting. Families can enjoy the local cafes, take a relaxing walk by the river, and even hop on a traditional rabelo boat for a scenic ride along the river. If you're traveling with a stroller, it’s best to take your time as the area has some uneven streets.

4. World of Discoveries

World of Discoveries is an interactive museum that brings to life the history of Portugal's navigators and explorers. With immersive exhibits and hands-on activities, kids will love learning about the Age of Exploration. The museum is designed to engage children and provide educational fun. It’s a great indoor option for families, especially on rainy days.

5. Foz do Douro

Foz do Douro is where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. This beautiful seaside district is perfect for a family outing, offering scenic walks along the beach, playgrounds, and cafes. Kids can enjoy the sand and sea, while parents relax with a coffee at one of the nearby beachside cafes. If you’re traveling with a baby, renting a stroller in Porto will make it easy to explore the area with ease.

6. Livraria Lello

For families who enjoy a good story, Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world and a must-see in Porto. The bookstore’s grand staircase and intricate interior make it feel like you’re walking into a fairy tale. It’s a great place for kids to explore, and there’s also a café where you can take a break and enjoy a treat.

7. Porto Tram City Tour

Take a ride on one of Porto’s iconic historic trams for a fun and scenic way to explore the city. The tram routes pass through some of the most famous parts of Porto, offering views of the river and city. It’s a fun, easy way to get around and see the sights, especially for younger kids who will love the novelty of the tram ride.

Seasonal Tips for Visiting Porto

• Spring: With mild temperatures and blooming flowers, spring is a great time to visit Porto. Take advantage of the pleasant weather to visit parks and outdoor attractions like the Crystal Palace Gardens.
• Summer: While summer can be warm, it’s perfect for exploring Porto’s beaches and enjoying outdoor activities. Be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for your little ones.
• Autumn: Autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to explore the city at a leisurely pace. It’s also a great time to visit the vineyards along the Douro River.
• Winter: Porto can get chilly in the winter, but the city’s festive lights and Christmas markets create a magical atmosphere. Cozy up in one of the city’s cafés and enjoy the seasonal treats.

Where to Stay in Porto with Kids

Choosing family-friendly accommodation is essential for a stress-free stay. Here are a few options that are perfect for families with young children:

Pestana Vintage Porto

Photo taken from https://www.pestana.com/en/hotel/pestana-porto

Located right on the Ribeira waterfront, this hotel offers spacious family rooms with beautiful river views. It’s a central location that makes it easy to explore Porto’s main attractions.

The Yeatman Hotel
This luxurious hotel offers panoramic views of the city and spacious rooms. The hotel has family-friendly amenities, including an indoor pool and kid-friendly dining options, making it a great choice for families looking for comfort and relaxation.

Airbnb Options
Porto has a variety of family-friendly Airbnb rentals, offering more space and flexibility. Look for properties in areas like Foz do Douro or the city center, where you’ll have access to parks, playgrounds, and other amenities.

Family-Friendly Dining in Porto

Porto is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of family-friendly dining options for kids. Here are a few spots where both kids and parents will enjoy the food:

Cantinho do Avillez

Photo taken from https://www.cantinhodoavillez.pt/pt/restaurantes/mouzinho-da-silveira.html

A relaxed, kid-friendly restaurant serving contemporary Portuguese dishes. It’s a great spot for families who want to try traditional Portuguese flavors in a comfortable setting.

Café Majestic
A beautiful, historic café in Porto that offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and traditional Portuguese dishes. It’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely meal with kids in a grand, welcoming atmosphere.

Mercado do Bolhão
A bustling food market where families can sample a variety of local foods. The market is filled with fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more, making it a fun spot for kids to explore while enjoying the sights and smells of Porto’s food culture.

How to Get Around in Porto with Kids

Porto’s public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro, is convenient and accessible for families with children. The city is also very walkable, so you can easily explore the main areas on foot.

• Metro: Porto’s metro system is one of the most efficient ways to get around. It’s stroller-friendly, with elevators and ramps at most stations.
• Trams and Buses: Porto’s trams are a fun way to see the city, and buses also run regularly throughout the city.
• Taxis: Taxis are easily available, and you can use a rideshare app like Bolt or Uber for family-friendly rides. If you're renting a car, be sure to rent a baby car seat from Babonbo for added safety and comfort, as local car rentals may offer unhygienic or unsafe seats.

Tips for Traveling with Kids in Porto

• Rent Baby Gear: Porto is a city full of hills and cobbled streets, so renting a stroller in Porto is a good idea. Babonbo offers convenient baby gear rentals, including strollers, cribs, and travel cots, delivered directly to your hotel or accommodation.
• Car Seat Rentals: When renting a car, remember that local car rental companies often provide car seats that may not meet safety standards. Renting a car seat from Babonbo guarantees that your child will travel in comfort and safety.
• Pack Essentials: Porto’s weather can vary, so be sure to pack layers for your kids, sunscreen, and snacks to keep them fueled during sightseeing adventures.

How Babonbo Can Help

At Babonbo, we understand the challenges of traveling with toddlers and young children. Our baby gear rental service in Porto provides everything you need for a comfortable family vacation. From strollers to car seats and travel cots, we deliver home-like comfort directly to your accommodation or the airport. Skip the hassle of packing bulky gear and focus on enjoying your family vacation.

Porto is a family-friendly city with a wealth of activities, attractions, and natural beauty to explore. From historic sites and museums to parks and river cruises, there’s something for every family to enjoy. Renting baby gear like strollers, cribs, and car seats in Porto makes traveling with young children much easier, ensuring a stress-free experience for parents. By following these tips and preparing in advance, you’ll have a fantastic time exploring Porto with your kids, creating lasting memories in this vibrant and charming city.