Travelling with family can be an enriching and memorable experience, especially when activities are designed for all ages, including children. There is a growing array of tours specifically developed for families, combining education, fun, and interaction with nature to create a unique and engaging experience for young explorers.
These carefully crafted tours provide a great way to teach kids about history, culture, and natural beauty while keeping them entertained and active.
Here are some top family-friendly tours with activities that are sure to capture children's interest, such as interactive museum visits, parks, and outdoor adventures.
Gerês: Nature and Adventure for the Whole Family
Peneda-Gerês National Park, with its stunning natural landscapes, is an excellent choice for families who love nature and adventure. This tour offers a unique opportunity for children to explore and connect with the natural environment in a safe and enjoyable way.
One of the highlights of this tour is the chance to walk gentle trails leading to beautiful lagoons and waterfalls. Children will love the opportunity to swim in the cool, therapeutic waters and be amazed by the pastoral mountain views along the way. Stops at viewpoints, like Pedra Bela, offer unforgettable moments for the whole family.
The tour also provides a chance for kids to learn about the park's biodiversity, a World Biosphere Reserve, while parents can relax and enjoy the serene landscapes. The combination of light physical activities, such as hiking and swimming, with moments of contemplation and learning ensures a balanced and enjoyable experience for children of all ages.
Arouca: Adventure Awaits
Another must-see tour for families is the visit to Arouca, famous for its suspension bridge, one of the longest in the world. This thrilling experience not only challenges the courage of the more adventurous but also provides a healthy dose of adrenaline for kids. However, it's important to note that visitors must be at least 6 years old to cross the bridge. Families with younger children can still enjoy other activities, such as the walk along the wooden walkways by the Paiva River, which is gentle and safe for all ages.
After the bridge crossing (if age permits) or the walk, families can enjoy an 8 km hike along the wooden walkways by the Paiva River, with strategic stops such as the "Vau" beach, where children can play and cool off in the river’s waters.
The experience is enriched with a delicious meal at a local restaurant, where the whole family can savour regional cuisine. To top off the day, visits to waterfalls and viewpoints, such as Aguieiras, and a local liquor tasting make the tour even more special.
This tour is an excellent way to introduce children to the wonders of nature and the importance of environmental preservation while having fun and creating unforgettable memories.
Porto: Discovering the City with Kids
For families who prefer an urban experience, the "Secret Porto Walking Tour" is a fantastic choice. This tour offers an insider's view of Porto, guided by a local, and takes families on a journey to uncover the city’s hidden secrets and treasures.
Children will love exploring the lesser-known nooks and crannies of the city, feeling like little detectives uncovering mysteries. Interaction with the local guide and city residents makes the experience more immersive and personal, giving kids a sense of belonging and curiosity about local culture.
With a relaxed attitude and small group sizes, the tour allows families to explore the city at a leisurely pace, absorbing local knowledge and stories while enjoying Porto’s friendly and laid-back atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Travelling with children can be challenging, but with tours designed for the whole family, as outlined above, it is possible to create a fun, educational, and memorable experience for everyone. From outdoor adventures in Peneda-Gerês National Park and Arouca to cultural explorations in the heart of Porto, there are plenty of options that allow families to enjoy unforgettable trips together, with activities that spark curiosity and learning in children while having a great time.
These tour options enable families to connect with the nature, culture, and history of Portugal, providing children with opportunities to learn while experiencing exciting and memorable moments.
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