Porto, Portugal's second city, has 11 must-see attractions for families.
Our family of four was ready for a post-pandemic adventure after more than 700 days without enjoying a city break in Europe, so we decided to test the waters by heading to neighboring Porto, in Portugal.
I've had a long love affair with Portugal; I first found the Algarve five years ago, with my then six-month-old kid in tow, and then fell in love with Lisbon two years later.
Porto felt like the natural next place to explore, and it did not disappoint.
THE LIVRARIA LELLO
JARDINS DO PALACIO DE CRISTAL
In my opinion, the most beautiful park in town, with one of the nicest views of the city and the Douro River - and it's free. As a giant 'PORTO' sign is now put here, there are several options for fun as well as photography. For those hot spring and summer days, there is also a playground that is nicely located in the shade. The gardens are in excellent shape, and you may even see peacocks and hens roaming freely among the people. My advise is to take the tram, which provides beautiful views along the way.
IGREJA DO CARMO/CAPELA DAS ALMAS
There isn't a travel guide that doesn't include these churches, and they've earned their spot. Both of these were our favorites, with Igreja do Carmo winning out over Capela das Almas mostly due to its proximity to Livraria Lello. Go explore and make your own decision!
CAIS DA RIBEIRA
BRIDGE LUIS I
MORRO'S GARDEN
Once you cross the Luis I bridge, here is the ideal spot to not only treat the kids to amazing views, but also to have some fun at the playground, which is conveniently placed just next to the park.
CABLE CAR/WATER TAXI
After some rest at Jardim do Morro, we took the cable car down to the City of Gaia Pier. It barely lasts five minutes, but the kids were blown away by the scenery and the experience. Once there, I recommend touring the neighborhood, which is full with market stalls and restaurants, and then crossing the river taking a water taxi, which will take you back to the Ribeira. The ride is quick, and my youngest son definitely cried because he wanted another, but it's entertaining and involves minimal walking, which kids like.
Porto felt like the natural next place to explore, and it did not disappoint.
THE LIVRARIA LELLO
JARDINS DO PALACIO DE CRISTAL
In my opinion, the most beautiful park in town, with one of the nicest views of the city and the Douro River - and it's free. As a giant 'PORTO' sign is now put here, there are several options for fun as well as photography. For those hot spring and summer days, there is also a playground that is nicely located in the shade. The gardens are in excellent shape, and you may even see peacocks and hens roaming freely among the people. My advise is to take the tram, which provides beautiful views along the way.
IGREJA DO CARMO/CAPELA DAS ALMAS
There isn't a travel guide that doesn't include these churches, and they've earned their spot. Both of these were our favorites, with Igreja do Carmo winning out over Capela das Almas mostly due to its proximity to Livraria Lello. Go explore and make your own decision!
CAIS DA RIBEIRA
BRIDGE LUIS I
MORRO'S GARDEN
Once you cross the Luis I bridge, here is the ideal spot to not only treat the kids to amazing views, but also to have some fun at the playground, which is conveniently placed just next to the park.
CABLE CAR/WATER TAXI
After some rest at Jardim do Morro, we took the cable car down to the City of Gaia Pier. It barely lasts five minutes, but the kids were blown away by the scenery and the experience. Once there, I recommend touring the neighborhood, which is full with market stalls and restaurants, and then crossing the river taking a water taxi, which will take you back to the Ribeira. The ride is quick, and my youngest son definitely cried because he wanted another, but it's entertaining and involves minimal walking, which kids like.
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