9 things to do in Porto with kids
Porto, Portugal is a great city to go for a short break. It’s an ‘up and coming’ city on the tourist scene, so you’ll find lots to do there but without the huge costs of some of the more well known locations. If you’re looking for a cheap holiday in Portugal then I’d highly recommend it. Here are some ideas for things to do with kids in Porto.
Take a ride on the cable car
The cable car gives you a lovely trip along the Duoro river, from which you can see Gaia’s rustic red rooftops and winding streets. It’s 6 euros for an adult single ticket or 9 euros for the return. Children are half price. We also got a free pass to one of the port cellars with our ticket including a free Port tasting. Well worth it!
Go on the Funicular
Porto is hilly! If you’re not in the mood for a steep walk, or just want something to entertain your children then take a trip up the north side of the river on the Funicular.
Take a walk along the river
See the Peacocks at Crystal Palace Gardens
Crystal Palace Gardens are one of my absolute favourite places to go with the family in Porto. The gardens are lush and green – a lovely and relaxing place to walk around. There are also Peacocks freely roaming on the grass, which are always a hit with the children.
Visit the Lello & Irmão bookshop
See if you can spot any similarities to Hogwarts while you’re there – J.K.Rowling lived in Porto for 10 years and used to drink coffee on the second floor of the bookstore.
Buy traditional Portuguese products at A Vida Portuguesa
Situated at Galeria de Paris 20, A Vida Portuguesa is your stop for buying traditional Portuguese crafts. The building is lovely too – well worth a visit.
Have a cheeky Port taster while the kids play
Lots of the Port wineries are surprisingly child friendly. Often they will have old barrels around that the kids can play on and no one seems to mind you bringing children in.
Go to the Sardine shop
A sardine tin for each of the previous 100 years? Oh yes. As well as a display worthy of a steampunk fairground. My kids were mesmerised.
Watch the sunset on the beach at Foz
Foz is only a couple of stops on the metro, or a slightly longer walk along the river if you’re more of an active type. Here you can find beautiful white sand beaches, and plenty of cafes to have a piña colada.
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