Northern Portugal: Family Activities

Go to northern Portugal and enjoy activities for the whole family

Vous partez en famille dans le nord du Portugal ? Are you traveling with your family to Northern Portugal? This Portuguese region offers a multitude of activities suitable for children of all ages, ensuring their utmost enjoyment. Delight your kids by taking them to entertaining spots that showcase the authentic colors of Portugal.

Northern Portugal provides an array of exciting activities for children, turning their vacation into an unforgettable adventure.

Little explorers will love the Peneda-Gerês National Park, where they can observe diverse wildlife, hike along scenic trails, and cool off in natural waterfalls. If you wish to introduce them to the sea, many equipped beaches are child-friendly, guaranteeing a fun-filled day.

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For even more entertainment, Authentic-Portugal shares a list of family activities for those traveling in Northern Portugal.

What Family Activities Are There to Do in Northern Portugal?

The main cities in Northern Portugal are filled with places to explore that will delight visitors, both young and old.

For example, the cities of Braga and Guimarães offer interactive tours of medieval castles and craft workshops where children can create their own souvenirs. 

Water parks, adventure parks, educational museums, workshops... Experience the soul of Portugal through sensational activities.

Take Your Children to Sea Life Porto Aquarium

The Sea Life Porto Aquarium is a must-visit destination for marine life enthusiasts and families seeking educational and fun adventures. Located in a picturesque setting along the Atlantic coast, this aquarium offers a fascinating dive into the underwater world with over 3,000 marine creatures. From the moment visitors enter, they are greeted by captivating and interactive exhibits that showcase the diversity and beauty of marine ecosystems.

One of the main attractions is the transparent ocean tunnel, where visitors can walk underwater, surrounded by majestic sharks, graceful rays, and colorful schools of fish. The touch pools provide children with a unique opportunity to touch starfish and anemones, making the experience even more immersive. Regular feeding shows and educational presentations are organized, allowing visitors to learn more about the behaviors and habitats of various species.

In addition to its numerous activities, this aquarium plays a crucial role in marine conservation. It actively contributes to the preservation of endangered species and raises public awareness about environmental issues. With its blend of discovery, education, and entertainment, the Sea Life Porto Aquarium offers an enriching experience for all ages. Allow your children to discover the wonders of the ocean. 

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The Puppet Museum of Porto

Also in the capital of Northern Portugal, the Puppet Museum is a place likely to captivate your children. 

The Puppet Museum of Porto is a cultural gem that immerses visitors in the enchanting world of puppets and puppet theater.

Located in the heart of Porto, this museum houses an impressive collection of puppets and offers a journey through the traditions and art of puppetry. The permanent exhibitions showcase puppets from different eras and styles, from traditional Portuguese puppets to innovative contemporary creations.

The museum also offers interactive workshops where both young and old can learn to make and manipulate their own puppets. Regular shows and theatrical performances are organized. The Puppet Museum of Porto is more than just an exhibition space; it is a place of discovery, creativity, and celebration of the art of puppetry. Allow the young ones to discover a delightful form of artistic expression.

Do you like museums? The city of Porto has many to offer. Discover our selection.

Top 5 Museums in Porto

Santo Inácio Zoo in Vila Nova de Gaia

The Santo Inácio Zoo in Vila Nova de Gaia is a true haven of biodiversity that delights visitors of all ages. Nestled in a lush setting, this zoo is home to over 800 animals from 262 different species.

Offer your children an educational and entertaining experience centered around animals. Let them discover majestic lions, elegant giraffes, playful monkeys, and many other fascinating creatures.

The zoo is also committed to conservation and education programs, raising public awareness about the protection of endangered species. With its modern facilities and natural spaces, the Santo Inácio Zoo is a must-visit destination for families and nature lovers.

Make Them Dream at Magikland Park

Taking the children to Magikland Park, located in Penafiel in Northern Portugal, promises a day of unforgettable entertainment and magic. 

This amusement park is specially designed for families and offers a variety of rides and activities that will captivate children of all ages.

The youngest will love the enchanted carousels and train rides, while older kids can venture onto thrilling roller coasters and refreshing water attractions. 

Magikland also features live shows and interactive entertainment to add a touch of enchantment to the experience. With its picnic areas and family-friendly restaurants, it's the perfect place for a family getaway where laughter and wonder are guaranteed.

Diverlanhoso Adventure Park

The Diverlanhoso Adventure Park is located in the Braga region, in Northern Portugal, specifically in the commune of Póvoa de Lanhoso. 

This vast 170-hectare park offers a multitude of outdoor activities: from tree climbing and zip-lining to rock climbing, canoeing, and paintball. 

Nestled in the heart of unspoiled nature, Diverlanhoso is the ideal destination for thrill-seekers and families looking for outdoor adventures.

Braga Science Center

Stimulate your children's curiosity and imagination with a visit to the Braga Science Center. 

This interactive center offers a multitude of exhibits and hands-on activities designed to make science accessible and fun. It’s the perfect place to provide an immersive and enriching educational experience at the heart of science.

Children can explore various themes such as astronomy, biology, physics, and chemistry through interactive experiments and captivating demonstrations. Workshops and labs allow them to transform into little scientists.

By visiting the Braga Science Center, children not only develop their knowledge but also a passion for learning, encouraged by a playful and engaging approach.

Pottery Workshops in Barcelos

The pottery workshops in Barcelos offer children a wonderful opportunity to learn about traditional Portuguese art in a creative and fun atmosphere. Guided by experienced artisans, young participants learn to shape clay, create unique pieces, and decorate their creations using authentic techniques.

Allow your children to stimulate their creativity and fine motor skills while discovering a rich part of Barcelos' cultural heritage. 

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At the end of the workshop, each child leaves with their own ceramic artwork, proud of their accomplishment and with memorable souvenirs of their artisanal experience.

No matter which city you decide to visit with your family, numerous activities will be available to you. Authentic-Portugal wishes you a great trip.