10 day itinerary for Portugal

Itinerary

Portugal is a fantastic destination for families, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and plenty of parks and green spaces to explore. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 10-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and outdoor activities. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon

• Morning: Arrive in Lisbon and check into your family-friendly hotel. Consider staying in the Baixa or Alfama districts for easy access to attractions.
• Afternoon: Head to Eduardo VII Park. It’s a lovely green space with beautiful views of the city. Let the kids run around while you enjoy a leisurely stroll.
• Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant in the Bairro Alto district. Try some traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau (cod) or piri-piri chicken.

## Day 2: Explore Lisbon

• Morning: Visit the Lisbon Oceanarium in Parque das Nações. It’s one of the largest aquariums in Europe and a hit with kids!
• Afternoon: Take a tram ride on the famous Tram 28 to see the city’s historic neighborhoods. Get off at Alfama and explore the narrow streets.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Alfama. Don’t forget to try some pastéis de nata for dessert!

## Day 3: Sintra Day Trip

• Morning: Take a train to Sintra (about 40 minutes). Visit the Pena Palace, a colorful fairy-tale castle surrounded by lush gardens.
• Afternoon: Explore the Quinta da Regaleira, a magical estate with gardens, caves, and a well that spirals down into the earth. Kids will love the adventure!
• Evening: Return to Lisbon and have a relaxed dinner. Maybe try a place with a fado show for some live music!

## Day 4: Cascais and Estoril

• Morning: Head to Cascais (about 30 minutes by train). Spend some time at the beach or visit the Boca do Inferno cliffs.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic at Parque Marechal Carmona, a lovely park with playgrounds and green spaces.
• Evening: Stroll along the promenade to Estoril and have dinner at a seaside restaurant.

## Day 5: Lisbon to Porto

• Morning: Take a train to Porto (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Serralves Park, a beautiful park with gardens, a museum, and a playground. Perfect for the kids to run around!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Ribeira district, where you can find family-friendly eateries with views of the Douro River.

## Day 6: Explore Porto

• Morning: Visit the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Kids will love the magical atmosphere!
• Afternoon: Head to the Crystal Palace Gardens for a picnic and some outdoor fun. The gardens offer stunning views of the city.
• Evening: Try some local specialties for dinner, like francesinha (a hearty sandwich) or fresh seafood.

## Day 7: Douro Valley Day Trip

• Morning: Take a day trip to the Douro Valley. Consider a family-friendly river cruise to enjoy the stunning scenery.
• Afternoon: Visit a vineyard that offers tours and tastings. Many places have outdoor spaces where kids can play while adults enjoy the wine.
• Evening: Return to Porto and have a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

## Day 8: Coimbra

• Morning: Travel to Coimbra (about 1.5 hours by train). Visit the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe.
• Afternoon: Explore the Botanical Garden, a beautiful green space perfect for a family stroll and some exploration.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Coimbra, perhaps trying some local dishes like chanfana (goat stew).

## Day 9: Aveiro and Costa Nova

• Morning: Head to Aveiro (about 1 hour from Coimbra). Explore the charming canals and colorful moliceiro boats.
• Afternoon: Visit Costa Nova, famous for its striped houses. Spend some time at the beach and enjoy a picnic.
• Evening: Return to Coimbra for dinner or try a restaurant in Aveiro before heading back.

## Day 10: Return to Lisbon

• Morning: Travel back to Lisbon. Spend your last day shopping for souvenirs or visiting any spots you may have missed.
• Afternoon: Relax at Gulbenkian Park, a beautiful green space with a lake and playgrounds.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, reminiscing about your wonderful trip!

Tips for Traveling with Kids:

• Always have snacks and water on hand for the little ones.
• Consider using public transport; it’s often easier and more fun for families.
• Look for parks and playgrounds in each city to let the kids burn off some energy.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Portugal! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️