10 things to do in Porto with children

There are activities for different ages, interests and travel styles. Some offer several hours indoors, while others invite children to run outside, observe animals or see Porto through the window of a historic tram.

Rather than trying to fit everything into a single day, bring the family together and choose the experiences that best suit the children’s ages, the weather and the time available.

1. Travel through history at World of Discoveries

At World of Discoveries, history is not simply observed: it is experienced. Located in Miragaia, beside the Douro and Porto’s Alfândega building, the interactive museum invites children and adults to travel back more than 500 years and explore the world of Portuguese maritime voyages.

Throughout the visit, families can explore interactive rooms, discover what the inside of a ship was like, learn about the instruments used by navigators, smell different spices and understand some of the challenges faced during voyages across unfamiliar seas.

One of the most eagerly awaited moments is the boat ride, which passes through different settings inspired by the territories and cultures encountered along maritime routes. Technology, art and multisensory environments help turn historical content into an accessible and engaging experience for younger visitors.

Rather than simply presenting dates and names, World of Discoveries encourages questions. How did navigators find their way without modern technology? What did they eat on board? How long did the voyages last? What would it have been like to face a storm at sea?

It is precisely this ability to inspire curiosity that makes the museum one of the leading family activities in Porto.

2. Discover Porto aboard a historic tram

For many children, the journey itself can be an adventure. Porto’s historic trams offer a more relaxed way to explore the city aboard vehicles that form part of its identity. The wooden seats, the sound of the bell and the movement through the streets turn a simple journey into a memorable experience.

Line 22 resumed service on 1 August 2026 after being suspended since November 2021 due to work on the expansion of the Porto Metro network.

The circular route begins and ends at Carmo, takes approximately 30 minutes and passes landmarks such as Praça da Liberdade, Clérigos Tower and Praça da Batalha. It also connects with Line 18 and, through it, with Line 1 at Massarelos.

It is a fun way to show children different parts of the historic centre without turning every journey into a long walk. Before travelling, check the latest timetables, operating routes and available tickets.

3. Run around and look for peacocks in the Palácio de Cristal Gardens

After visiting museums and monuments, children often need space to run and play. The Palácio de Cristal Gardens cover around eight hectares and offer tree-lined paths, lakes, fountains, viewpoints over the Douro, sports areas and a playground.

The peacocks wandering through the gardens are often one of the biggest surprises for younger visitors. Looking for them can become a small family challenge, always taking care to observe them from a distance and respect the animals.

While the children explore the gardens, adults can enjoy views over the river and different parts of the city. The gardens also have toilets, a café and other useful facilities for families.

4. Take a break among books at Almeida Garrett Library

The Palácio de Cristal Gardens are also home to Almeida Garrett Municipal Library, a space dedicated to reading, culture and leisure. The Children and Young People’s Reading Room welcomes children from birth to the age of 14 and provides books and activities for different age groups. It is a good opportunity to slow down, let each child choose a story or simply rest after exploring the gardens.

The library also has a café with access to an inner courtyard and terrace, making it possible to combine reading with a snack break. Check the programme in advance, as there may be storytelling sessions, workshops, book presentations and other family activities.

5. Experiment with science at the Biodiversity Gallery

Why are animals so different? How did life on Earth evolve? What distinguishes humans from other species? At the Biodiversity Gallery – Centro Ciência Viva, questions are the starting point for a journey through science, art and natural history.

Located in Casa Andresen, within the University of Porto Botanical Garden, the space features dozens of exhibition modules and installations dedicated to the diversity of life. Mechanical models, multimedia platforms and sensory experiences help children understand scientific concepts through participation, making subjects such as evolution, animals, plants and the environment easier to explore.

It is an especially interesting option for families with curious children who enjoy learning through experimentation.

6. Explore Porto Botanical Garden

A visit to the Biodiversity Gallery can continue through the University of Porto Botanical Garden. The garden contains different environments and collections, including a rose garden, arboretum, cactus and succulent gardens, wooded areas and smaller themed spaces.

Instead of simply going for a walk, give the children a few challenges: find leaves of different shapes, discover a plant they have never seen before, observe insects or identify the colours found throughout the garden. These small missions help develop observation skills and turn contact with nature into a family activity.

Opening hours may vary depending on the season, so check them before visiting.

7. Discover marine life at SEA LIFE Porto

Sharks, rays, seahorses and many other species make SEA LIFE Porto one of the most popular choices for families. During the visit, children can observe different aquatic habitats and learn more about oceans, rivers, the species that live in them and the importance of conservation.

The experience brings younger visitors closer to marine life and can help begin conversations about pollution, ocean protection and environmentally responsible behaviour. As it is mostly indoors, it is also a practical option for rainy days.

8. Spend a few hours in Parque da Cidade

With a vast green area extending towards the Atlantic, Parque da Cidade is one of Porto’s best places for a break outdoors. Families can walk, cycle, observe the lakes, have a picnic or simply allow the children to play in a large space away from the busiest parts of the city centre.

There is no need for a complicated plan. A ball, a few games, water and a snack may be enough to fill a morning or afternoon. Its proximity to the sea also makes it possible to continue the walk towards the waterfront, depending on the children’s ages and the family’s energy levels.

9. Choose a new story in a children’s bookshop

A visit to Porto can continue even after the family returns home. The city’s children’s bookshops offer illustrated books and stories about travel, animals, emotions, science and adventures in unfamiliar places.

Bookshops such as Papa-Livros, Salta Folhinhas and Index Livraria have selections particularly suited to younger readers. To make the visit more special, challenge each child to choose a book related to something discovered during the trip: the sea, navigators, animals, plants or Porto itself.

After a visit to World of Discoveries, for example, a book about oceans, maps or great voyages can help extend the curiosity inspired by the museum. Check opening hours and events, as some bookshops organise storytelling sessions, presentations, workshops and meetings with authors and illustrators.

10. Have a picnic or take a family break

Exploring a city with children requires time to rest. Rather than filling the day with consecutive visits, set aside time for a picnic in a garden, a snack on a terrace or a break in a café close to the chosen activity.

The café at Almeida Garrett Library, with access to its inner courtyard and terrace, is a practical option for families visiting the Palácio de Cristal Gardens. At Parque da Cidade, a picnic provides greater freedom and space to play. In Miragaia, families can also combine a visit to World of Discoveries with lunch at the restaurant located in the same building, avoiding an additional journey.

When choosing a café or restaurant, look for high chairs, outdoor areas, simple menus or a location close to parks and gardens.

How should you choose the best family activities?

Every family travels differently. Before planning the itinerary, consider:

• the children’s ages;
• the time available;
• distances between locations;
• the weather forecast;
• opening hours and closing days;
• the need for breaks between activities.

On a rainy day, you can combine World of Discoveries with Almeida Garrett Library or the Biodiversity Gallery.

In good weather, you can follow a museum visit with a walk through the Palácio de Cristal Gardens, the Botanical Garden or Parque da Cidade.

A historic tram journey can also become part of the experience and reduce some of the walking required in the city centre.