The smallest city in the world is next to Spain and features miniature monuments from other destinations

Many people say that traveling with children is impossible, that it is very difficult, or that it prevents you from enjoying everything you want; you have surely heard the phrase "first I want to travel and then have children." Well, I believe that it's not like that, and that children can bring unforgettable experiences while traveling. Cassiano Blanco thought the same, this modernist architect designed a place for family travel in Coimbra, Portugal; but it is sized for children.

In 1940, "Portugal dos Pequenitos" opened, the first theme park in the country, where leisure and learning are the main elements. As soon as you enter through the gate, you dive into a space filled with reproductions of the most emblematic monuments of Portuguese history, all in miniature. An area designed for families to enjoy touring Portugal and for the little ones to explore the different cities with ease; because tourism can indeed be for the whole family.

The park is divided into several themed areas. On one side, there is a representation of the very city where it is located: Coimbra. In another area, the most famous monuments of Portugal are replicated, with a special emphasis on Lisbon: the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery (both in the capital), the Clérigos Tower in Porto, or the National Palace of Sintra. And we can't forget about the island territories, the Azores and Madeira also have a space here. It is not only focused on the country, other Portuguese-speaking nations also have their place, like Brazil.

But undoubtedly, the favorite part for children is the representation of the regional houses, where they can go up, down, enter, and peek out of the balconies as if it were their own home. There is also a lighthouse, a church, a castle, and even some mines, a truly miniature village that doesn't skimp on details and is totally realistic.

In addition to fun, in Portugal dos Pequenitos, children will learn about Portuguese history and culture in a dynamic and entertaining way. It is designed so that, while having fun exploring the beautiful corners of the park, they enrich themselves about the cultural diversity and the different regions of the country. That is why educational activities and workshops are organized, from storytelling of traditional tales to interactive games.

Traveling with children is not only possible but makes the experience unique and families have the opportunity to share time together that they will always remember. Portugal dos Pequenitos is a perfect example that it is possible to combine fun, learning, and tourism in an environment designed for everyone.