The Algarve is an ideal destination for a family holiday, not just for its extensive sandy beaches and calm waters, but for the many activities that you can do in the region. There's something to please kids and adults alike here, both during the summer and the rest of the year. There are many possible combinations. Follow our suggestions or customise your own.
In Lagos, visit the Living Science Centre and its exhibitions. This has displays on science and technology, with a wide range of activities to please the entire family. Check out the city itself, closely linked to the history of Portuguese expansion in the world. Among the various points of interest are the Núcleo Museológico da Rota da Escravature (Slave Route Museum), the Caravela Boa Esperança (Good Hope Caravel), usually anchored in Lagos marina and the Museu de Cera dos Descobrimentos (Waxwork Discoveries Museum), where you can revisit history in an educational and fun way.
On Salema beach, Vila do Bispo, observe the footsteps of the biped carnivorous dinosaurs that populated this region 140 million years ago and are visible on rocks at the eastern end. On the way back to Lagos, continue on to the Zoo, an educational and conservationist area that has facilities such as playgrounds and a snack bar and also offers various educational activities. Here you can see chimpanzees, brown lynxes, meerkats, scarlet ibis and black-necked swans, amongst the various species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish.
In Portimão, travel back in time in the city museum, housed in an old fish canning factory on the riverside. This is one of the most prestigious museums both nationally and internationally, with exhibitions on the history of local communities, on the industrial canning past of Portimão and on the sea bed, with underwater images of the river Arade and the coast. Then drive inland to the Algarve International Karting Course for a challenging driving experience and perhaps a race between family members. There are programmes aimed at adults and children. Fun is guaranteed.