If you're staying in the Algarve, don't miss this amazing hidden gem of a day trip just 15 minutes from Portimao.
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This family-friendly day trip to Silves is the perfect destination for a full or half day excursion! This historic town is full of things for families to explore - wander the walls of a medieval castle, play at a castle-themed playground, wander through narrow streets, and even take a side trip to pick fresh oranges.
Here's your guide to making the most of a day in Silves with toddlers and young kids.
Morning: Exploring Silves Castle & Themed Playground
Castle-Themed Playground
Start your day by parking at the Parking Parque Ribeirinho de Silves - it's free and plentiful. Head towards the river to the castle-themed playground and giant "SILVES" letters that have climbing holds on them for kids to climb!
- The playground has climbing structures, slides, and plenty of space for little ones to burn off some energy.
- There's a cafe nearby where parents can grab a coffee while watching the kids play.
- There's also a smooth, circular river path if you need to push a sleeping baby in a stroller!
Silves Castle (Castelo de Silves)
After wiggling on the playground, wander through the town up to Silves Castle, one of the best-preserved castles in the Algarve.
- Why Kids Love It: They can use their imagination while you explore the massive red sandstone walls, turrets and towers.
- Tips for Parents: Bring a stroller for younger kids for the lower part, or a carrier for babies, but expect some uneven paths. The castle offers breathtaking views over the town - even all the way to the coast!
- Weather Note: In the summer it can get HOT, so we suggest visiting early in the morning as there isn't any shade up on the castle.
- Entry fee - 2.80 euros for adults, 1.40 euros for children over 3 and seniors over 65. Under 3 is free.
Lunch: Kid-Friendly Dining in Silves
After a busy morning, enjoy a meal at one of three places we recommend (and we've tried!):
- Cafe Ingles - A charming spot with outdoor seating, right near the castle. They serve pizza, pasta, and other kid-friendly meals.
- Cafe da Se - A cute little cafe just below the main church that serves large sandwiches on wooden boards, sliced perfectly for kids with tiny Portugese flags in each slice. Our kids absolutely loved this, and the sandwiches were tasty!
- Cafe DaRosa - Located in the town square, sit outside and enjoy a sandwich while the kids run around the fountain in the square. We played a little game of soccer here with some other friendly Canadians.
Pro tip: Order some fresh orange juice - Silves if famous for its citrus groves and even hosts an orange festival in February every year!
Afternoon: Cute Streets, Orange Picking & Nearby Vineyards
Wander the historic streets of Silves' old town and pop into a few shops - you'll find a local linen shop selling Portugese linens, an adorable shop with baby & toddlers clothes and accessories, and cork shops (cork sandals are AMAZING!). Kids will have fun spotting different colored doors and fun little details throughout the town.
Orange Picking Experience
Silves is known for its delicious oranges, which fruit twice a year. Some farms nearby offer orange-picking experiences.
- Where to Go: Quinta de Santo Estevão Algarve Farm Experiences
- Cost: 15 euros per person for the Orange Route Tour, 20 euros per person for the Orange Route Tour with Donkeys, and 45 euros per person for a Farm-to-Table Tapas Experience, which includes a tour of the farm and more.
- Why its great for kids: They LOVE picking their own fruit, and fresh-picked oranges taste amazing!
Visit a Nearby Vineyard for a Wine Tasting
When we travel with kids, we like to divide our day into activities for them, both, and us. This one falls under an "us" experience, although there is space for kids to roam as well. If you have time and the kids have the energy, stop by nearby Arvad Winery or Morgado do Quintao. Both are really close to Silves and offer quick tastings or longer tastings with tours.
Final Tips for Your Day in Silves
- Best Time to Go: Shoulder season (March-May, October-November, although the Algarve has mild weather even in the winter)
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, hats, comfy shoes for exploring, and a carrier for toddlers if needed.
- Stroller-Friendly? Mostly yes, but some cobbled streets and castle areas may be tricky. Also be prepared for an uphill walk, although short, from the parking lot to the castle.
Silves is a magical place for families - where history, nature, and exploring come together. Whether your little ones are climbing the castle walls, picking oranges, or running through a playground, it's a day they'll remember - ours sure do!
- Brittany