Guiding Family Life in Portugal

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

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Lucia Santos - Expat family life guide in Portugal Photo: MoveAbroad

Hi there, I'm Lucia

Relocating to Lisbon in Portugal gave our family a fresh start. New daily routines, different norms, and many uncertainties — we figured it all out the hard way.

In time, we discovered that Portugal is quite different from the stereotypes. Family spaces can be incredibly welcoming — but only if you know how things work and where to go.

This site is what I wish we'd had before moving: practical tips, candid notes, and small details that make everyday life easier for families abroad.

Explore my full journey

Lessons We've Gathered So Far

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

Dining out as an expat family in Portugal Photo: MoveAbroad
Food & Dining

Dining Out with Kids: Our Top Picks

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 and Education

Schools for Expat Families: How to Choose

A practical way to shortlist schools, what questions matter most, and how to avoid the common mistakes families make after relocating to Portugal.

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

Helpful tips I wish I had known sooner

  • Local routines matter: Many places operate on daily timetables that can influence shopping, meals, and appointments — plan ahead to minimize last-minute stress.
  • Peak hours catch newcomers off guard: Weekends and evenings fill up quickly. For quieter outings, try visiting earlier in the day.
  • Family zones make things easier: When available, they usually provide more comfort, more room for children, and a smoother overall experience.
  • Have a single dependable contact: If you need fast assistance or directions, save this number: +351 912 345 678.
Everyday city life for expat families in Portugal Image credit: MoveAbroad