Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is a place where history meets a laid-back, modern vibe, making it an ideal destination for families looking to explore together. With its charming streets, impressive bridges, and vibrant culture, Porto has something for everyone—even the little adventurers in tow. I’ve always been captivated by this city, and that’s why I decided to create a hand-drawn map of Porto. It’s not just any map—it showcases the spots I love most while traveling with my son and my nephew, who actually inspired a few of the illustrations with their thoughts and ideas. The map is in black and white, with a touch of a playful and modern twist, much like our conversations about Porto once we were back in Barcelona.
Strolling the Ribeira District
One of the best places to start your adventure in Porto is the Ribeira District. This UNESCO World Heritage site is full of winding streets, colorful buildings, and riverfront cafes. It's easy to spend a day just wandering around, soaking in the atmosphere. Kids will love watching the boats on the Douro River, and if you’re up for a little ride, a boat trip under Porto’s six bridges can be a fun and scenic way to see the city from a different perspective. Don’t forget to stop by a cafe for a pastel de nata (custard tart)—a sweet treat that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Climbing the Clérigos Tower
If your kids have energy to burn, climbing the Clérigos Tower is a great way to get some exercise and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. It’s 225 steps to the top, but the view is well worth it, and it’s a great opportunity to point out landmarks to the kids. They’ll feel like little explorers standing at the top, looking out over the red-tiled rooftops of Porto. My son loved the climb, especially the sense of accomplishment once we reached the top, and it's moments like these that inspired some of the playful elements in my map drawings.
Exploring Livraria Lello
One spot that absolutely cannot be missed, especially if you have any book lovers in the family, is Livraria Lello. Often called one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, it’s a must-visit. The winding staircase, intricate woodwork, and stained glass ceiling create a magical atmosphere that even kids can appreciate, especially if they’re Harry Potter fans—the bookstore is rumored to have inspired parts of J.K. Rowling’s series. The lines can get long, so it’s a good idea to buy tickets in advance or go early.
Family Fun in the Gardens of Palácio de Cristal
When the kids need a break from sightseeing, the Gardens of Palácio de Cristal offer a great space to let them run around and enjoy some greenery. With peacocks roaming the grounds, duck ponds, and plenty of space to play, it's a perfect spot for a family picnic or just a quiet stroll. Plus, the views over the Douro River are stunning, providing a relaxing backdrop for a family afternoon. It’s also a peaceful place where we spent time talking about the city, and those moments of calm reflection definitely influenced some of the simpler, more whimsical drawings on the map.
The Tram Ride Experience
For a fun and easy way to get around, hop on one of Porto’s historic trams. The number 1 tram line takes you along the river from the city center to the coastal suburb of Foz, where you can spend some time at the beach. It’s a relaxing way to see more of Porto, and the novelty of riding an old-fashioned tram never fails to excite the kids. My nephew particularly loved this part of our journey, pretending the tram was a time machine taking us through the city’s history.
A Sweet Stop at the World of Discoveries
For an educational twist that’s still packed with fun, the World of Discoveries interactive museum is a hit with kids and adults alike. It brings Portugal’s Age of Exploration to life with hands-on exhibits and a boat ride that takes you through different parts of the world as Portuguese explorers saw them centuries ago. It’s a great way to mix learning with entertainment, and it’s another one of those spots that made it onto my map—thanks to some enthusiastic input from my son, who was fascinated by the ships and sea monsters.
Why a Map? Well, I make maps, actually…but also:
Creating a map of Porto was my way of capturing these experiences and highlighting the places that brought us joy. It’s drawn in black and white, with a style that’s a bit childish and a bit fancy modern—just like our adventure in Porto. My son and nephew had a hand in filling in spaces, and some of the drawings are inspired by our chats about what they loved most. This map isn’t just a guide; it’s a keepsake of our journey, a way to share a piece of Porto with others, especially those exploring with their own families.
Porto is a city that welcomes travelers of all ages, and it’s filled with opportunities to make special memories together. Whether you’re climbing towers, wandering through gardens, or just enjoying a sweet treat by the river, there’s something here for every family to enjoy. I hope my map helps guide you through the city we love and inspires you to create your own adventures with your kids in this beautiful corner of Portugal.
