Porto Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Porto
This weekend itinerary offers a fantastic mix of free outdoor play, engaging interactive museums, and special cultural events designed to delight families in Porto. We've balanced budget-friendly options with worthwhile ticketed experiences, focusing on convenience and kid-friendly fun.
Friday Evening - Festive Family Fun
Friday, January 2Spiritus Natalis Show
Experience the final showing of Spiritus Natalis, a spiritual and sensory journey within the iconic Clérigos Church.
This multimedia show uses state-of-the-art video mapping and sound to transform the church into a captivating canvas, offering a unique farewell to the festive season.
A magical and immersive experience for all ages, though very young children might find it intense due to sound and visuals. The duration is suitable for an early evening activity (approx. 30-45 min). Restrooms are available. Stroller access may be limited in some parts of the historic church.
Located in the city center. Public transport (metro, bus) is easily accessible. Parking can be challenging in this area; public parking garages are available nearby but may incur costs.
Evening Circus Magic
Catch one of the final performances of the traditional Circo de Natal (Christmas Circus) at the Coliseu Porto Ageas. This beloved holiday tradition, delighting families since 1941, features acrobats, clowns, illusionists, and a live orchestra in a magnificent circular auditorium.
Perfect for children aged 3-12, offering classic circus entertainment. The early evening timing allows for a fun outing before bed. Concessions and restrooms available. Accessible for strollers. The show typically runs for about 2 hours, including an intermission.
Centrally located and well-served by public transport. Parking garages are available in the vicinity.
Saturday - Discovery Adventure Day
Saturday, January 3Ocean Tunnel Fun
Dive into the underwater world at SEA LIFE Porto, Northern Portugal's largest aquarium.
Kids will love exploring 31 aquatic habitats, seeing sharks, rays, seahorses, and penguins, and touching animals in the Rocky Pools. Don't miss the mesmerising Ocean Tunnel!
Ideal for children aged 3-12. Interactive exhibits, talks, and feeding sessions keep kids engaged. Facilities include restrooms, baby changing facilities, and a cafe. Stroller-friendly throughout. Allow 2-3 hours for the visit.
Located near Parque da Cidade and the beach. Easily accessible by car with dedicated parking, or by bus (lines 200, 203, 205, 500, 504).
Mercado & Picnic Lunch
Head to Mercado Porto Belo, a vibrant artisan market in Praça Carlos Alberto, perfect for a relaxed family lunch.
Browse local crafts and enjoy a budget-friendly meal from the food stalls. Afterward, find a spot for a picnic in a nearby green space or enjoy treats from the market.
A lively, free-to-browse market. Kids can enjoy the atmosphere and choose their own snacks. Plenty of family-friendly food options. Nearby Jardim da Cordoaria offers a playground for kids to burn off energy after lunch. Restrooms may be available at cafes nearby.
Centrally located, walkable from many downtown areas. Public parking garages nearby. Accessible by various bus lines.
Puppet Museum Visit
Immerse yourselves in the enchanting world of puppets at the Porto Puppet Museum (Museu das Marionetas do Porto).
Explore a collection of 123 puppets from various shows, learning about their history and the art of puppetry. The museum offers an engaging and imaginative experience for children and adults.
Suitable for all ages, with interactive elements. The museum is compact but rich in history and visual appeal. Restrooms available. Stroller access is generally good. Allow 1-1.5 hours. For older children (6+), workshops may be available with advance booking for a deeper dive into puppet manipulation.
Located in the historic center, a short walk from São Bento Train Station. Public transport is recommended. Parking is limited in the immediate vicinity.
City Park Playtime
Enjoy a refreshing afternoon at Parque da Cidade do Porto, the largest urban park in Portugal.
Let the kids run free in its vast open spaces, explore playgrounds, or simply relax by one of the lakes. It's an excellent spot for some fresh air and energetic play before dinner.
Free entry. Perfect for energetic kids to unwind. Numerous playgrounds and vast lawns for running around. Restrooms and some cafes are available within the park. Stroller accessible paths are abundant. Great for all ages.
Easily accessible by car with ample parking (northern entrance off Estrada da Circunvalação or Avenida da Boavista entrance). Also served by several bus lines.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, January 4Age of Discoveries Adventure
Embark on an interactive journey at the World of Discoveries, a museum and theme park dedicated to Portuguese navigators.
Kids will love the multimedia displays, interactive screens, and especially the boat ride that simulates the voyages of discovery.
Highly engaging for children aged 4-12. The interactive nature keeps them interested. Restrooms and a cafe on site. Stroller access available. Allow 1.5-2 hours for the visit. It's recommended to buy tickets online to save money.
Located in the Miragaia neighborhood, accessible by bus (e.g., line 500 from Avenida dos Aliados). Public parking garages are available in the area.
Porto Legends Show
Experience 'Porto Legends', an immersive show beneath the Porto Customs House that unveils the most precious legends and history of the 'Undefeated City'.
This multi-sensory experience brings Porto's past to life through captivating narration and visuals.
A unique cultural experience suitable for families, with a specific session available on this Sunday. The narration is available in multiple languages, including English. Suitable for children aged 4-17 with reduced price tickets available. Arrive 15 minutes before the session starts. Restrooms available.
Located near the Douro River. Accessible by tram line 1 or various bus lines. Public parking available nearby.
Gaia Riverside Views & Play
Cross the Douro River to Vila Nova de Gaia for a relaxing afternoon.
Take a short, fun ride on the Gaia Cable Car for amazing panoramic views of Porto and the river. Afterward, enjoy playtime at Jardim do Morro, which features a charming playground and climbing rocks, offering stunning views of Porto as a perfect end to the weekend.
The cable car ride is short (5 minutes) and a big hit with kids (age 3+). Jardim do Morro offers fantastic photo opportunities and space for kids to play. Restrooms available near the garden and cable car stations. Stroller accessible paths in the garden.
Easily accessible by walking across the Dom Luís I Bridge (upper deck for metro/pedestrians). Metro Jardim do Morro station is right there. Limited parking in Gaia.
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