I have booked flights for a weekend away in Lisbon (from 30 August - 3 September) for me my husband and my four year old and 12 year old (who turns 13 on 2 September). The trip is to celebrate my son's birthday but also as a treat for my husband, who has always wanted to visit Lisbon. However I cannot find suitable accommodation. Please help. D Kent, by email

A spokeswoman for the Lisbon Tourist Board responds: Lisbon, and indeed Portugal in general, is very family friendly and most hotels will be delighted to welcome children. However, if your family is looking for a special place with specific family facilities, we would recommend the Hotel Real Palacio. Situated in the centre of Lisbon, just a stone's throw from three metro stations, it offers everything from children's menus to special children's furniture, and can also rustle up children's parties.

The hotel also offers a babysitting service, so that both parents and children can make the most of their break. For more information, see www.realpalaciohotel.com or call +351 291 775 936

The city also has some great children's attractions. We would suggest a trip to the Oceanarium, Europe's largest aquarium. Split in to sections, representing the five oceans, the Oceanarium is home to 8,000 animals and plants representing 500 species.

Alternatively, if the weather's good, why not try a family trip to the coast to watch dolphins? A colony of bottlenose dolphins live on the River Sado estuary, and the company, Vertigem Azul, provides boat trips to see the amazing animals (call +351 265 238 000)

For further information on Lisbon, see www.visitlisboa.com

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