When is the last time you took a family vacation? For us, the sad fact is that we have been on one vacation and that was actually part of a press trip I was on. I would love to take the family someplace fun. I have seen some amazing pictures from a friend who visited Portugal and I have to say, it would be a fabulous vacation! Today I am sharing a guest post with you to tell you more about some fun to be had in Portugal.
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Portuguese vacations are some of the most family-friendly in Europe. The people are warm and inviting, the cities vibrant and fun for all ages. It can sometimes be difficult to find an ideal family getaway but Lisbon city breaks are the perfect escape for the entire brood. From historical experiences to interactive museums, Lisbon is active, exciting and diverse, ensuring kids and parents alike remain engaged and happy for the duration of the stay. Here are some of Lisbon’s best family attractions.
Belem Palace
The sprawling grounds of this historic palace are the perfect place for families to spend a day exploring. Pack a delicious Portuguese picnic for the great lawn and roam the manicured grounds and play a few games. There are some spectacular tropical gardens nearby which are home to some stunning exotic species and several ponds providing an idyllic backdrop for a family excursion.
Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery
The Tower is one of Lisbon’s most popular destinations and a great historical inquest for visitors. It’s aUNESCO World Heritage Site and a chance to teach young ones about European history and trade. The nearby Jeronimos Monastery features medieval storytelling in the cloisters which is a wonderful and informative way to pass an afternoon in town.
Maritime Museum
Lisbon’s role as a key European port has made it what it is today. The Maritime Museum document’s the city’s history as an integral place of trade and travel and is home to a children’s section with interactive exhibits, model ships and other attractions that are sure to delight children of all ages. There is a Planetarium as part of the museum complex where kid-friendly sessions are delivered in English.
Parque das Nações
This exciting part of town is the ideal Lisbon district for family entertainment. There are several great attractions in the area to suit all ages. Families can roam freely in the traffic-free streets and along the riverside walkway or jump in a cable car for a journey to a local peak. Bikes are available for hire, there are water gardens, a host of international restaurants, a great playground called Paque do Gil for young ones and even bowling!
Colombo Shopping Centre
For parents looking to give their kids a surprise treat, head uptown to the top floor of the Colombo Shopping Center. Here they will find what is said to be the largest indoor amusement park in Europe. This fun fair of epic proportions is home to indoor roller coasters, a variety of other great rides, all manner of video game and a go kart track.
Lisbon is home to historical monuments, interactive museums and a massive amusement park. Families will have no trouble sorting out a day’s entertainment and the city will likely leave everyone wanting more.
Image by Harold Navarro, used under the Creative Commons license.
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