Is Porto family-friendly? Sarah Dawson visited Portugal’s buzzy second city with her family and the answer is, yes. Take a look at her guide to some of the best things to do in Porto with kids right now.
1/8 Livraria Lello: the world’s most beautiful bookshop is in Porto
A bookshop might not be your first thought when it comes to fun days out with the kids, but Livraria Lello is no ordinary bookshop. Known as one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops, it originally shot to fame because of its associations with Harry Potter. As it turned out these were entirely fictional and J. K. Rowling has repeatedly denied that Livraria Lello was a source of inspiration during her stay in Porto.
Despite that, the incredibly ornate building and intricate carved staircase in the centre definitely has a magical feel. However, it’s also phenomenally popular, so beat the crowds, go early and don’t forget to book an entry ticket online to skip the queue. The price is redeemable against any book purchase in-store. Alternatively, the J. K. Rowling associations might have been debunked, but you can still take the city’s excellent Harry Potter Tour which includes a visit to Livraria Lello.
Take a look at our pick of family hotels near Livraria Lello
See our selection of holiday homes in Clerigo Porto
2/8 Piscina das Marés: safe ocean swimming for kids
With stunning views out across the Atlantic, Piscina das Marés are more than worth a short journey north of Porto. These saltwater swimming pools are designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira, one of Portugal’s best known architects, and perfectly blend into their surroundings.
The pools sit between rocks and the open sea and kids love feeling as though they’re swimming in the ocean. There’s a separate pool for adults, so children can splash about to their heart’s content. However, you also have a beautiful beach to explore and space to sunbathe as well as a restaurant and bar. Open during summer and early autumn they make an easy day trip. And if you pick up a Porto Card it covers transport all over the city for up to 72 hours.
See our selection of family hotels in Leça da Palmeira
Take a look at our pick of holiday homes in Leça da Palmeira
3/8 Don’t miss Porto’s legendary Six Bridges river cruise
You can’t come to Porto and not experience the famous Six Bridges cruise. This classic boat trip down the River Douro gives you a chance to see the city sights and stunning natural landscape, plus it lets kids have a break from walking.
There’s so much to take in on both riverbanks and Porto’s bridges are even more impressive up close. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for graceful Rabelo boats which have been used to transport wine along the Douro for centuries. And remember to arrive a little early to bag a spot at the bow, rather than inside the boat. In summer and early autumn, make sure you bring sun hats, SPF, water and snacks.
Take a look at family hotels in Vila Nova de Gaia
See our pick of holiday homes in Vila Nova de Gaia
4/8 Street art walk: the ultimate urban adventure for older kids and teens
Take a walk through the city’s winding medieval streets and you’ll be greeted with the coolest murals at every turn. Porto has really embraced street art and is now home to some of the most amazing examples in Europe.
There’s something very special about seeing a neglected older building brought to life with colourful, beautiful street art and it’s sure to appeal to even the hardest-to-please teens. Strolling around is good way to see the many murals, if you’ve time. Alternatively, take an off-the-beaten-track Porto tour with local guides to explore the street art and uncover plenty of other city secrets as well.
