Portugal with a Baby or Toddler: A Practical Guide

Portugal is one of the easiest countries in Europe to visit with a baby or toddler. The Portuguese adore small children, the food is simple and fresh, the flights from much of Europe are short and the beaches are gentle. Here’s what you need to know.

Quick answer: the Algarve is the easiest choice for a baby, with calm beaches, family resorts and short transfers from Faro. Bring a baby carrier as well as (or instead of) a pram, because of the cobbles and hills in Lisbon and Porto. Pharmacies and supermarkets stock everything you need. Families with babies often get priority in queues. Avoid the midday heat in summer.

Where to go

• The Algarve: calm, warm water on the south coast, resorts with kids’ clubs and baby equipment. See Algarve family resorts and the Algarve with kids.
• Madeira: mild all year, safe and relaxed, though hilly. See Madeira with kids.
• Cascais: a seaside base near Lisbon with easy beaches and promenades. See where to stay in Cascais.
• Lisbon and Porto: very doable, but plan around the hills. See Lisbon with kids and Porto with kids.

Prams vs carriers

Lisbon and Porto are steep, with slippery stone pavements and lots of steps, and Sintra’s palaces are not pram-friendly. A carrier is much easier. A light, sturdy stroller is useful for the Algarve promenades, Parque das Nações in Lisbon and Porto’s riverside.

Supplies

• Pharmacies (farmácias, with a green cross) sell formula, baby food, creams and medicines, and the pharmacists are very helpful.
• Supermarkets like Continente and Pingo Doce sell nappies, wipes and baby food.
• Baby food: Portuguese soups (sopa) are a great first food, and restaurants will often prepare something simple.

Getting around

• Car seats are required by law. Rent them with your car or bring your own. See car rental.
• Taxis and transfers: request a car seat when booking. See Lisbon airport to the city and Faro airport transfers.
• Trains are comfortable and spacious. See the train guide.

Eating out

Babies are welcome almost everywhere, and staff will often fuss over them. High chairs are common, though changing tables are less so in older restaurants. Dinner starts late (8pm or later), so many families eat a big lunch instead.

Health and safety

• Sun and heat: July and August are very hot inland and in the south. Stay in the shade at midday, and use sun hats and high-factor sunscreen.
• Atlantic waves: the west coast beaches have strong waves and currents. Choose sheltered Algarve beaches for little ones.
• Healthcare: good public and private hospitals. Bring an EHIC/GHIC if you have one, and travel insurance.
• Emergency: call 112.

When to go

May, June and September are ideal: warm but not too hot, and less crowded. See the best time to visit Portugal.

More: Portugal with kids and the Portugal packing list.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.