Porto Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Porto
This itinerary focuses on a mix of free outdoor spaces and engaging ticketed attractions, with meal suggestions at family-friendly establishments. Transportation is generally accessible via public transport or walking, with notes for each activity.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Crystal Palace Gardens
Explore the beautiful Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, a romantic garden offering stunning panoramic views of the Douro River and the city.
Kids can enjoy the recently renovated playground with unique structures and climbing challenges, as well as spot peacocks roaming freely. It's a perfect free spot to unwind after arrival and let the children burn off some energy.
Suitable for all ages (3-12+). The playground has areas for different age groups, including a baby swing. Benches are available for parents. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.
Easily accessible by foot from the city center. Public buses also serve the area. Stroller-friendly paths available, though some areas may be hilly.
Dinner at Negra Cafe
Enjoy a casual, family-friendly dinner at Negra Cafe Baixa, known for its delicious toasts and homemade cakes.
Crucially, it features a dedicated play area for kids, allowing parents to relax while children are entertained.
Ideal for families with children aged 3-12 due to the indoor play area. Offers varied menu options suitable for different tastes. Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours.
Located in the city center, easily walkable. Public transport (metro, bus) stops are nearby.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21World of Discoveries
Embark on an interactive journey through the history of Portuguese navigators at World of Discoveries.
This museum and theme park recreates the voyages of Portuguese explorers with immersive settings, sensory effects, and an indoor boat ride that takes visitors through exotic environments. It's both educational and highly entertaining for children.
Recommended for children aged 3 to 12. The experience includes interactive exhibits and a boat ride. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.
Accessible by bus (e.g., Line 500 from Avenida dos Aliados). Walking distance from Ribeira district.
Riverside Lunch
Enjoy a casual lunch at a family-friendly restaurant near the Ribeira district, offering traditional Portuguese cuisine with views of the Douro River.
Many establishments in this area cater to families.
Suitable for all ages. Look for restaurants with outdoor seating for a pleasant experience. Duration: 1 hour.
Walking distance from World of Discoveries. The Ribeira area is very pedestrian-friendly.
City Park Playtime
Spend the afternoon at Parque da Cidade do Porto, the largest urban park in Portugal.
It offers vast green spaces, lakes, and extensive walking and cycling paths. Children can enjoy the various playgrounds, run freely, and explore nature. It’s an ideal free option for outdoor fun.
Suitable for all ages. Features playgrounds, open fields for ball games, and opportunities to see geese and swans around the lakes. Public restrooms are available. Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
Accessible by bus (e.g., lines 200, 203, 205, 500, 504). Plenty of parking available at the northern and southern entrances.
3D Fun Art Museum
Immerse yourselves in a world of optical illusions and interactive art at the 3D Fun Art Museum Porto.
This goofy family museum provides numerous opportunities for fun photos and engaging with art in a playful way, where nothing is quite as it seems.
Recommended for children above 5 years old, but younger kids will also enjoy the visual experience. It’s a great indoor activity for a late afternoon. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.
Accessible by metro (Marquês station is nearby, then a short walk).
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22SEA LIFE Porto
Dive into the fascinating underwater world at SEA LIFE Porto.
Discover over 31 aquatic habitats, marvel at sharks, rays, colorful fish, and penguins. Highlights include the ocean tunnel and Penguin Island. There's also an outdoor play area and a café.
Ideal for children aged 2 to 14. Offers talks and feeding demonstrations by marine biologists, and educational activities. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.
Located near Parque da Cidade and the beach. Accessible by bus (e.g., 203, 500, 502, 205 to Castelo do Queijo stop) or metro (Line A, B, C, E, F to Casa da Música, then transfer to bus).
Mercado da Foz Lunch
Experience the vibrant local atmosphere and enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Mercado da Foz.
This traditional market offers stalls with fresh produce, fish, and meat, alongside various food courts. It's a great place to sample local delicacies in a lively setting.
Suitable for all ages. Kids can enjoy the bustling atmosphere and diverse food options. Several restaurant spaces inside. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Located in the Foz do Douro area, accessible by bus from SEA LIFE Porto or other parts of the city. Stroller friendly within the market.
Bridge & Viewpoint
Conclude your weekend with a walk across the iconic Ponte Luís I bridge and visit the Miradouro da Serra do Pilar. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Porto, the Douro River, and the picturesque Rabelo boats. The upper deck of the bridge is pedestrian-friendly and offers fantastic photo opportunities.
Suitable for all ages, but ensure children are supervised on the bridge. The walk offers great views and a chance to experience a major Porto landmark. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Easily walkable from the Ribeira area across the upper deck of Ponte Luís I. Public transport (metro) also stops near the viewpoint.
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