Guiding Family Life in Portugal

Genuine experiences, candid insights, and practical tips for expat families

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Maria Costa - Expat family life guide in Portugal Photo: Clear Source Leaf

Hi there, I’m Maria

Relocating to Lisbon in Portugal turned our family life around. New routines, new rules, and plenty of uncertainties — we had to figure everything out the hard way.

In time we discovered that Portugal defies the usual stereotypes. Family spaces can be incredibly welcoming — but only if you know how things function and where to go.

This site is exactly what I wished we had before moving: practical tips, candid observations, and tiny details that simplify everyday life for families living abroad.

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What We've Learned So Far

These aren't just guides — they're snapshots from real family life in Portugal: what helped, what surprised us, and what we'd do differently next time.

Family-friendly shopping and daily life in Portugal Photo: Clear Source Leaf
Most Read
Shopping & Lifestyle

Family Zones in Malls: What Really Works

What to expect when shopping with children, how family areas are organized, and the small things that save time (and stress) in Lisbon.

12 min read Updated: January 2025
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Dining out as an expat family in Portugal Photo: Clear Source Leaf
Food & Dining

Dining with Kids: Our Favorite Spots

What “family-friendly” really means locally, how to pick the right spot, and practical tips for smoother meals with children.

10 min read Updated: February 2025
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Family & Education

Schools for Expat Families: How to Pick

A practical method for narrowing down schools, which questions matter most, and how to dodge common mistakes families make after moving to Portugal.

11 min read Updated: February 2025
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School choices for expat families in Lisbon, Portugal Photo: Clear Source Leaf

Quick Tips I Had Not Known Sooner

  • Local routines matter: Local routines count — Many places run on daily schedules that can influence shopping, dining, and appointments — plan ahead to dodge last-minute stress.
  • Peak hours surprise newcomers: Peak hours catch newcomers off guard — Weekends and evenings fill up quickly. For more relaxing outings, try going earlier in the day.
  • Family areas help a lot: Family zones are very helpful — When available, they usually provide more comfort, more space for children, and a smoother overall experience.
  • Keep one reliable contact: Keep a single dependable contact — If you need fast assistance or guidance, save this number: +351 21 234 5678.
Everyday city life for expat families in Portugal Photo: Clear Source Leaf