Two Cities, One Unforgettable Family Journey Through Portugal
- Sarah Jayne
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Portugal has always been on our travel bucket list, and this trip—split between Lisbon and Porto, was one for the books. From exploring Lisbon's vibrant streets to savoring Porto’s flavors, our family adventure was filled with unforgettable moments, and we were lucky to experience it all together.
Lisbon: A Family-Friendly City That Feels Like Home
We kicked off our family journey through Portugal in Lisbon, and let me tell you, this city knows how to make families feel at home. We stayed at the Martinhal, a place designed with families in mind. This wasn’t just a hotel; it was a haven for little explorers and their parents.
The colorful decor, thoughtful amenities, and kid-friendly touches made it feel like everything had been perfectly planned for us. The girls were thrilled with the kid-sized utensils, and we couldn’t get enough of the detailed kids' menu, which even included baby food options. It’s those little details that make a big difference, right?
And if you're traveling with little ones, the baby concierge service at Martinhal is a game-changer. You can pre-book baby gear like pushchairs, bottle sterilizers, and even baby cots—anything you need to make your stay easier. Plus, there’s a kids' club for ages 6 months and up, which meant we could have some much-needed downtime while the kids had their own adventures.
Oceanário de Lisboa: A Family Favorite
Our first afternoon in Lisbon was spent at the Oceanário de Lisboa, and it was the perfect start to our trip. The kids were absolutely captivated by the marine life, and we all loved the peaceful vibe of the place. It was one of those experiences that felt special because it allowed us to relax and simply enjoy each other’s company.
Getting around Lisbon with a stroller was surprisingly easy—no tight corners or difficult paths, just smooth streets and beautiful scenery.
Sunset Views and Good Food at Martinhal
At the end of each day, we’d return to Martinhal for some quality food and beautiful views. The 1855 Gin Garden became our favorite place to unwind, with a glass of wine or a gin and tonic in hand. The Terrace restaurant also exceeded our expectations, serving up fresh ceviche and flavorful dishes that provided the perfect ending to each day.
The best part? The view from our place. Watching the sunset over Lisbon became a nightly ritual, and it was the kind of peaceful moment that made you forget about the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Porto: A Whole New Adventure
After soaking in all that Lisbon had to offer, we hopped on a train to Porto, and it was a completely different vibe. Porto’s charm is in its narrow streets, hidden alleyways, and the warmth of its people.
Scroll through the photos below for a sneak peek into our Porto journey—from the market scenes to those unforgettable panoramic views.
We stayed at Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments, and it immediately felt like a cozy escape. The hotel had this incredible, welcoming ambiance that made us feel right at home. The highlight? The hanging maps at the entrance. It set the tone for the rest of the stay which was filled with hidden gems and secret corners.
The Oldest Market in Porto: A Feast for the Senses
One of the first places we visited in Porto was the Mercado do Bolhão, the oldest market in the city. It was vibrant and lively, full of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, seafood, and local specialties. We had a blast trying all the different products, from canned razor clams to the famous Portuguese sardines.
Did you know canned sardines are one of Portugal’s most iconic souvenirs? There are stores dedicated to them, with an impressive variety of flavors.
We also tried some flaming grilled chorizo, which was cooked right in front of us. The smell was irresistible, and it was everything we hoped it would be.
Porto’s Food Scene: A Culinary Adventure
Now, I’m not usually the biggest seafood fan, but the clam stew in Porto completely changed my mind. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the dish was just the right level of comfort. We also had lobster (because why not?) and paired it with a glass of sparkling red wine—the perfect way to explore Porto’s culinary scene.
But the real standout for me? The slow-cooked meat sandwiches and traditional beef stew. It was the kind of food that fills you up and makes you feel at home, no matter where you’re from. And, of course, we couldn’t leave Porto without trying some port wine, which was the perfect way to end each meal.
Livraria Lello: A Book Lover’s Dream
A trip to Porto wouldn’t be complete without visiting Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. With its ornate bookshelves, floating staircases, and magical ambiance, it’s easy to see why this place was said to inspire parts of Harry Potter. We wandered through the bookstore, soaking in its charm and imagining the stories that have unfolded within its walls.
A Journey We’ll Never Forget
From Lisbon’s lively streets and gorgeous views to Porto’s historic charm and incredible food, this trip was everything we hoped for and more. Every moment—from family adventures at the Oceanarium to tasting traditional dishes in Porto, was a beautiful addition to our travel story.
Portugal, with its warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and rich history, has certainly stolen our hearts. And who knows? Maybe we’ll be back sooner than we think.
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