When you hear someone say they are planning a family trip to Portugal, Lisbon is often the destination that comes to mind. And while Portugal’s capital is worth the hype, you’d miss out on Europe’s best-kept secret for family vacations, the Algarve.
Located less than three hours south of Lisbon, the Algarve (from Arabic’s al-garbh for “the west”) is the southernmost region of Portugal. Renowned for its golden cliffs, silky sand beaches, picturesque towns, and delectable cuisine, it provides the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery for families.
Beaches for all ages
A relaxing family vacation usually includes visiting a beach destination. The Litoral, or the coastline of the Algarve region, is bursting with stunning beaches. If you prefer to have a quieter beach experience, you should visit beaches like Praia do Carvalho, which is largely hidden and accessed through a tunnel. A note to parents: There are no bathrooms available here; however, the waves are very calm, and it is tucked away, making for an easy beach-going experience.
From hidden coves to sprawling stretches of sand with restaurants, the Algarve is home to a wide variety of beaches. Photograph by Redux
The Algarve’s coast is dotted with cliffs, lighthouses, forts, and other attractions worth exploring. Photograph by Redux
If your family likes more activity, Praia da Rocha has several restaurants, public restrooms, and other facilities close by so you can easily spend all day by the water. And, the waves and current are extremely calm along Praia da Rocha, making it the perfect place to spend the day playing on the beach with your kids.
Family-friendly dining
One of the hardest things to face as a parent is a picky eater. However, traditional Portuguese food has numerous dishes that will appeal to even the most challenging eaters.
For those in the family who prefer more simple dishes, grilled pork with rice or fries is a very common menu option found in the Algarve region. Another common dish is piri-piri, or flame-grilled chicken, with mild or spicy sauces on the side. If your family likes to try new dishes, then you should order bacalhau, or cod, which is the national dish of Portugal. Travelers can find cod prepared fried with french fries or boiled with vegetables on many menus around the Algarve region.
Pastel de nata, an egg custard served with cinnamon sprinkled on top, is Portugal’s national dessert. Photograph by Irina Marwan, Getty
For a guaranteed kid-friendly meal, look for restaurants labeled as “churrasqueiras” (Portuguese barbecue houses) or casual cafes that serve sandwiches, burgers, and fresh pastries.
Many restaurants also serve omelets, pastas, and soups, making it easy to find something more familiar for your kids to eat. Hotels often offer more international buffets with a mix of local and Western-styled dishes, which are great options for families who want to try new dishes but have picky eaters in tow.
And of course, you can’t forget about dessert! The famous pastel de nata, Portugal’s national dessert, is an egg custard served with cinnamon sprinkled on top and usually served warm.
(Related: Where to eat Lisbon’s best pastel de nata)
When planning meals, it is important to keep in mind that many restaurants don’t open for dinner until 7 or 8 p.m., though it is more common to find restaurants that open earlier in some tourist-friendly spots. Consider having a late afternoon snack or checking with your hotel for early dining options.
Family adventures
The Algarve has numerous family-friendly activities that go beyond its famous coastline. Ria Formosa Natural Park, a sprawling system of lagoons and wetlands, is perfect for family adventures like birdwatching, boat tours, and easy nature walks. The park is home to flamingos, chameleons, and countless other species, making it a fascinating destination for kids of all ages.
A visit to Sand City is a must. Located near Lagoa, this incredible park showcases towering sand sculptures crafted by talented artists from around the globe. Families can stroll through the exhibits, take photos of their favorite creations, and participate in sand-sculpting workshops to try this intricate art form.
Vila Vita Parc, a resort in Porches, offers a wide variety of kid-friendly classes, including cooking, painting, and more. Photograph by Bruno Mateus
A speedboat tour is a thrilling way to explore the Algarve’s dramatic cliffs and hidden grottos, with the iconic Benagil Cave being the highlight. While the speedboat ride is exhilarating for kids, it’s also a great opportunity for parents to soak in the region’s natural beauty and snap some unforgettable photos.
For the adults in need of a bit of a breather, the Algarve is home to an impressive selection of wineries and vineyards where you can unwind. Places like Quinta dos Vales offer wine tastings in a serene setting, with stunning views of rolling vineyards and artistic sculptures scattered across the grounds. Many wineries even provide family-friendly amenities, like open gardens and picnic areas, allowing kids to play while parents indulge in a glass of locally produced wine.
(Related: 5 of Portugal’s best wildlife-watching destinations, from the Algarve to Lisbon)
City and castle explorations
For a day of fun learning, explore the Algarve’s rich history in towns like Lagos and Silves. Silves, with its striking Moorish castle and ancient city walls, offers travelers of all ages a chance to imagine life in medieval times.
Lagos, on the other hand, combines a vibrant atmosphere with historical landmarks such as the old city gates and the Forte Ponta da Bandeira and the old Lighthouse of Ponta de Sagres.
For a creative twist, families can join workshops in Silves to learn traditional Portuguese crafts like pottery or tile painting. Both crafts have long histories, reaching back as far as the 16th century, and are deeply engrained in Portugal’s national identity.
Getting around
The Algarve is best seen if you rent a car. Though there are bus options between the major cities, having your own means of transportation will make a family vacation easier.
Once you’re within a city, though, it’s best to leave the car in one spot. Finding parking can be difficult, so it’s best to find a spot and then explore on foot from there. Strollers can also be tricky on the cobblestone streets — and cobblestone sidewalks — so pack a baby carrier if you’re traveling with little ones.
Where to stay
In addition to a kid’s club, Vila Vita Parc also has a nursery and a teen’s club with activities like handball, badminton, tennis, volleyball, basketball, and more. Photograph by Manolo Yllera
Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort stands out as a haven for families, with spacious accommodations, multiple kids’ clubs, and a wide range of activities that cater to all age groups. Similarly, Pine Cliffs Resort in Olhos de Água, combines breathtaking cliffside views with incredible amenities like a children’s village, mini-golf, and direct access to Falésia Beach. Families looking for a blend of luxury and fun will love Vila Vita Parc in Porches. The resort has lush gardens, a dedicated kids’ club, and direct beach access.
The luxurious Conrad Algarve in Quinta do Lago provides spacious rooms, a heated infinity pool, and family-centric activities like a kid’s club. You can also have the hotel schedule a private boat tour experience. Meanwhile, Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort offers an elegant retreat with family-friendly pools, a kids’ club, and convenient shuttle services to nearby attractions.
