Portugal is an incredibly family-friendly destination, offering a rich blend of history, beautiful landscapes, and modern amenities that make traveling with kids a breeze. Whether you’re exploring Lisbon’s cobbled streets or soaking up the sun in the Algarve, getting around Portugal is straightforward and enjoyable for families. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best transportation options for family travel in Portugal, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free trip for you and your loved ones.
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1. Getting Around Lisbon and Other Major Cities
Lisbon, Porto, and other Portuguese cities are incredibly walkable and well-connected, making them ideal for families looking to explore at a relaxed pace. Here are a few transportation methods to help you navigate the cities with ease.
Public Transportation: Buses, Trams, and the Metro
Portugal’s public transport system is reliable, affordable, and easy to use. In Lisbon, the metro is the most efficient way to get around. When we weren’t walking, we used it extensively during our family trip.
It’s fast, clean, and accessible, with stations equipped with elevators and escalators—perfect for strollers. Kids under 4 travel for free, and children aged 4-10 can enjoy discounted fares. It’s also easy to use even if it’s your first time there.
Lisbon’s iconic tram network is another fun way to get around. While they can be crowded at peak times, taking a tram ride—especially Tram 28—is a fun experience for children. The trams wind their way through the city’s historic districts, offering a chance to soak up Lisbon’s charm.
Buses are another viable option for getting around the city. Lisbon’s buses are well-maintained, with air conditioning, making them a comfortable option for families during the warmer months. With multiple routes connecting popular spots, buses are a good alternative when the metro or trams don’t reach your destination.
Metro and Train Systems in Porto
If you’re in Porto, you’ll find that the metro is also a fantastic way to get around. The city’s metro system is modern, clean, and accessible, with stations that are stroller-friendly. The tickets are reasonably priced, and children under 4 travel for free, just like in Lisbon.
The train system in Porto is equally efficient for families, with plenty of options for day trips to nearby towns and cities, such as the beautiful coastal city of Aveiro. Trains are equipped with facilities for strollers and children, making them a comfortable and relaxing option for longer journeys.
2. Renting a Car for Family Road Trips
If you’re planning to venture outside the cities, renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Portugal’s scenic countryside, beaches, and charming small towns. Whether you’re planning to visit the Algarve, Sintra, or the Douro Valley, having a car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Driving in Portugal
Portugal has well-maintained roads, and driving is relatively straightforward. Highways are mostly toll roads, but the tolls are reasonable. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the road signs, and always have a map or GPS handy. In the cities, parking can be tricky, especially in Lisbon, so be prepared to use parking garages or look for street parking outside the city center.
Renting a car is especially helpful if you’re planning to visit areas like the Algarve or the Douro Valley, where public transport options can be limited.
Our rental car was invaluable in allowing us to explore the Algarve. We were able to easily reach places we wanted to visit including the beautiful Marinha Beach even though we were staying in Lagos.
Make sure to rent a car with enough space for your family and luggage, and request a GPS or use your smartphone with Google Maps (like we did) for directions. Car rental agencies in Portugal are plentiful, and booking in advance will help you secure the best rates, especially if you can drive a manual.
Car Seats for Kids
When renting a car, don’t forget about the car seat requirements for your little ones. Portuguese law mandates that children under 12 or shorter than 135 cm (about 4’5″) must be seated in a child safety seat. Be sure to request the appropriate car seat for your child’s size when booking your rental, or bring your own if you’re traveling with one.
3. Taking the Train: A Scenic and Relaxing Option
Portugal’s train network is extensive, making it easy to travel between cities and regions. Taking the train is not only an eco-friendly choice but also a fantastic way to enjoy Portugal’s scenic landscapes.
Long-Distance Trains
For families who want to explore beyond Lisbon and Porto, Portugal’s long-distance trains are an excellent option. The Alfa Pendular is the fastest and most comfortable train service, linking Lisbon with Porto, Braga, Coimbra, and other cities. The trains are equipped with spacious seats, plenty of room for luggage, and facilities for young children, including a family-friendly atmosphere.
Regional and Local Trains
If you’re visiting towns or villages outside the major cities, regional trains can take you to destinations like Sintra, Cascais, or Évora. These trains are slower but offer a comfortable and scenic journey through the countryside. They are often less crowded than the long-distance services, making them a great option for families looking for a quieter ride.
4. Exploring by Boat: Coastal Adventures
Portugal’s extensive coastline makes boat travel a unique way to explore the country. For families visiting the Algarve or Lisbon, a boat ride can be a thrilling addition to your trip.
Ferries
If you’re staying in Lisbon, the ferries across the Tagus River to places like Cacilhas are a great way to enjoy the views and experience the river. The ferries are affordable and offer a peaceful way to see the city from the water.
The Algarve is renowned for its stunning coastlines and hidden coves, making it a perfect destination for boat exploration. Many family-friendly boat tours are available, offering everything from short trips to longer excursions that include swimming, dolphin watching, or stops at secluded beaches. One tour that stands out is the Benagil Caves boat tour. We chose the 90-minute tour from Carvoeiro, and it was incredible. We got to see so much of the coastline, including areas that are only accessible by boat.
5. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
In cities like Lisbon and Porto, taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are plentiful and easy to use. This can be a convenient option when you’re tired from a day of sightseeing or when you need to get somewhere quickly.
Most taxis in Portugal are equipped to accommodate children with booster seats, though it’s always a good idea to confirm this when you book.
6. Biking Around Portugal
Portugal is also a great country for cycling, with many cities offering bike rentals and dedicated bike lanes. Lisbon and Porto both have bike-sharing systems, but you might find that cycling outside of the cities, through vineyards or along the coast, is especially enjoyable.
Some regions, like the Algarve, offer family-friendly bike tours that are a fun way to get out and see the sights together. If you prefer cycling independently, many rental shops offer child-sized bikes and bike trailers for younger kids, making it a great option for families.
Enjoy Exploring Portugal
Whether you choose to explore Portugal’s bustling cities, picturesque countryside, or sun-drenched beaches, there are plenty of ways to get around that make traveling with kids easy and fun. Public transport, renting a car, taking the train, or even hopping on a boat—each mode of transportation offers its own set of benefits for families. By planning ahead and choosing the options that suit your family’s needs, you’re sure to enjoy a stress-free and memorable trip to Portugal. Why not start planning your trip with our essential planning guide for Lisbon as well as a practical packing guide for your family. Safe travels!
