Make their day: 10 things to do in Porto with kids

Looking for things to do in Porto with kids? You’re in luck. You’ll find delicious food that the whole family will love and amazing weather in summer. Beyond the most famous landmarks like the cathedral and the bridges, Porto has kid-friendly attractions that little ones will love.

This list gives you a rundown of fun activities for kids in Porto. There’s something for everyone, from animal-mad youngsters at SEA LIFE to dedicated Harry Potter fans at the Livraria Lello. Make a note of these things to do with children, and get ready for an epic family vacation.

The best things to do with kids in Porto at a glance

The best thing to do with young kids in Porto: Exploring the interactive exhibits at the World of Discoveries museum.

The best activity for teens in Porto: Surfing lessons at Matosinhos Beach.

The best free family-friendly experiences in Porto: Strolling through the picturesque Jardins do Palácio de Cristal and visiting the vibrant Ribeira District.

1. Bring history to life at the World of Discoveries

The World of Discoveries is the perfect mix of a theme park and a museum. You’ll enjoy boat rides and interactive exhibits that tell you all about Portugal’s Golden Age when its mighty ships circumnavigated the world, and it was the globe’s number one seafaring power.

Who is it recommended for?

Suitable for all ages. The youngest kids may not understand the historical context, but they will still enjoy the colorful attractions.

Address

Rua de Miragaia 106, 4050-387 Porto

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM

Closed Mondays

2. Meet the penguins at SEA LIFE Porto

Penguin Island is just one of the highlights of SEA LIFE Porto, the city’s aquarium. You’ll also see scary sharks, adorable seahorses, and so much more. Check the daily schedule to see when the feeding demonstrations will take place for a closer look at how your favorite sea creatures dine.-

Who is it recommended for?

Kids of all ages will enjoy this aquarium, especially if they’re interested in nature.

Address

Via do Castelo do Quiejo do, 4100-379 Porto

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM

3. Enter the wizarding world of the Livraria Lello

JK Rowling was a regular at the Lello Bookstore when she lived in Porto, so many believe its unique, historic architecture helped inspire Hogwarts. It’s a great place to bring the kids. Not only is it incredibly beautiful, it also has a wonderful collection of books to enjoy.

Who is it recommended for?

Keen readers of all ages will enjoy this magical bookstore. It can even help inspire reluctant readers.

Address

Rua das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday, 9:30 AM-7:30 PM

4. Become the stars of classic paintings at the Immersivus Gallery

Visiting the Immersivus Gallery is a great way to encourage youngsters to take an interest in art. This cutting-edge gallery takes classic paintings and transforms them into a full 3D experience, making you feel like you’ve stepped inside the canvas.

Who is it recommended for?

Kids aged 6 and up will best appreciate the magic of the Immersivus experience.

Address

Furnas da Alfândega do Porto, Rua Nova da Alfândega, 4050-430 Porto

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday, 9:30 AM-6:30 PM

Closed Mondays

5. Look for dolphins on the River Douro

A private sailboat tour on the Douro River is a great way for the whole family to have fun. The grown-ups can sit back and relax with a glass of local wine while the kids enjoy the adventure of being on a boat. If you’re lucky, you might get a chance to see some friendly dolphins nearby.

Who is it recommended for?

Kids of all ages can board the boat but go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

Address

Rua da Praia, 4400-554 Vila Nova de Gaia

6. Live out your Barbie fantasies at the Pink Palace

The Pink Palace is one of the hidden gems in Porto, with something for both kids and grown-ups. Little ones will have fun playing in the big pink ball pit, while adults can learn about the history and production of rosé wine. Your Pink Palace also entitles you to take part in a tasting session, with wine for the adults and non-alcoholic drinks for the kids.

Who is it recommended for?

Kids aged 6 and up will have the most fun, but all ages are welcome.

Address

Rua do Choupelo 39, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM

7. Have an adventure in nature at the Peneda-Gerês Park

Visiting Peneda-Gerês Park is the perfect day trip for adventurous kids. You’ll have the chance to kayak, swim, or try stand-up paddleboarding on a beautiful blue lake before you go for a gentle hike through lush green surroundings.

Who is it recommended for?

This is best for kids aged 8 and up. There is hiking involved, so be prepared.

Address

Peneda-Gerês National Park, 4845-999 Portugal

Opening hours

Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM

Closed Sunday-Monday

8. Make a personalized souvenir at Planet Cork

The Planet Cork museum is dedicated to the many uses for cork, from its role in the wine industry to clothes and accessories. When you visit the Planet Cork Museum at the WOW Center, you’ll also be able to have some hands-on fun, making your very own personalized cork stoppers to take home.

Who is it recommended for?

Kids aged 6 and up will be able to enjoy the creative side of this fun museum.

Address

Rua do Choupelo 39, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM

9. See the Gryffindor Fountain and discover the city’s magic side

As a young woman, JK Rowling lived in Porto, and many parts of the city inspired her famous works. On this Harry Potter inspiration tour, you’ll see the fountain that bears the Gryffindor shield, and you’ll even visit the very café where Rowling wrote her first book.

Who is it recommended for?

This is suitable for Potter fans of all ages.

Address

Meet at Praça de Almeida Garrett, 4000-069 Porto

10. Solve riddles on a treasure hunt through the city center

A treasure hunt is one of the most fun, interactive ways to see the city with your kids. You’ll enjoy a mixture of landmarks and monuments, with riddles and clues to puzzle over along the way. Can you prove your skills as a secret agent?

Who is it recommended for?

This is suitable for kids over the age of 6. There’s plenty of walking, so pick a dry day.

Address

Meet at Rua de Passos Manuel, Porto 4000-382

FAQs

What are some of the top family-friendly attractions in Porto?

There are some great family-friendly attractions in Porto, like the World of Discoveries, the SEA LIFE aquarium, and the beautiful Lello Bookstore.

What are the best museums for kids in Porto?

The Pink Palace is a fun museum that will delight young and old, while the Immersivus Gallery is a rare example of a kid-friendly art museum. There's also a Chocolate Museum in the WOW complex.

What are some fun outdoor activities for kids in Porto?

A boat trip down the River Douro is one of the most enjoyable outdoor activities for kids. The whole family will love the chance to cruise down the river.

What are some unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences to have in Porto with kids?

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, try a treasure hunt in the city center. There are also Harry Potter walking tours, which are great if your kids are fans of the boy wizard.

What are some fun day trips from Porto that are suitable for families with kids?

If you want to see a bit of nature, you can go to the nearby Peneda-Gerês Park on a day trip. For the beach, take a trip to either Matosinhos or Vila Do Conde.