Should I choose a hotel or an apartment for my family?

Choose an apartment. Portugal's dining culture starts late (usually 8:00 PM), and having a kitchen allows you to prepare kid-friendly meals at normal hours while saving significantly on your food budget.

Is it easy to find cribs or high chairs in rentals?

Yes, but you must ask specifically. Send a message to the host: 'Do you provide a baby cot and high chair?' Don't assume they are included unless explicitly stated in the listing.

Booking Family Accommodation in Portugal

To book family accommodation in Portugal, prioritize 'Alojamento Local' (AL) registered rentals over standard hotels for more space and kitchen facilities. Book at least 4 months in advance if traveling in July or August to secure properties with multiple bedrooms and kid-friendly amenities.

Look for the AL license. Every legal short-term rental in Portugal must have an AL (Alojamento Local) registration number. If you don't see one on the listing, skip it; it is likely an illegal or uninsured property.
Use specific filter settings. On platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com, filter specifically for 'washing machine' and 'kitchen,' as these are essential for family trips. Check the bedroom configuration carefully—Portuguese real estate often lists a living room with a sofa bed as a 'bedroom,' which may not suit your family’s needs.
Verify stairwell accessibility. Many historic buildings in Lisbon and Porto do not have elevators and have steep, narrow staircases. If you are traveling with a stroller or young children, always message the host to ask, 'Is there an elevator?' rather than trusting the 'accessibility' filter.
Confirm parking arrangements. If you are renting a car, prioritize properties that explicitly offer 'private parking' or a 'garage.' Street parking in city centers is difficult to find and expensive, often costing 15-20 euros per day.

Should I choose a hotel or an apartment for my family?: Choose an apartment. Portugal's dining culture starts late (usually 8:00 PM), and having a kitchen allows you to prepare kid-friendly meals at normal hours while saving significantly on your food budget.
Is it easy to find cribs or high chairs in rentals?: Yes, but you must ask specifically. Send a message to the host: 'Do you provide a baby cot and high chair?' Don't assume they are included unless explicitly stated in the listing.