Lisbon is an ideal destination for families. Find out how to make the most of your trip with our ultimate guide to visiting Lisbon with kids!
Family trips present a true travel challenge. A key part of planning the perfect vacation involves choosing a family-friendly destination that everyone will enjoy. We know just the place: Lisbon, a city your kids will love just as much as you do.
If you plan to visit Lisbon with kids, we provide all the tips you need to prepare fully, minimize conflict, and keep things running smoothly. To help you do it, here are our picks of the best hotels, activities, and kid-friendly cuisine in Portugal’s capital. Whether you’re searching for the best family activities Lisbon has to offer or looking for Lisbon attractions for kids, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable vacation.
Where to stay in Lisbon with kids
First, you’ll need to find family-friendly accommodation. Choosing an area of the city to serve as your home base makes a big difference. The clearest choices are Baixa and Chiado, central districts that sit close to many main attractions, but don’t challenge you with steep hills like other neighborhoods.
You’ll find Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Family Suites, a hotel specifically designed for travelers with kids, in this area. It offers a kids club, “baby concierge” service, and suites with plenty of space. Also in Baixa, Pestana CR7 Lisboa provides a bold and colorful atmosphere where sports take center stage. Any young soccer fans will feel right at home!
Estrela, a calmer area with cool cafés and picturesque streets, also makes a great place to stay with kids. You can enjoy the Jardim da Estrela for outdoor fun. Choose from family-friendly accommodations like Hotel da Estrela or the Estrela Penthouse apartment, which features plenty of space, games, and toys for kids.
Finally, consider the Avenida de Liberdade area. You’ll stay within walking distance of the center, but escape the crowds. If you’re searching for Lisbon family hotels that offer a perfect balance of location and comfort, this area stands out as a top choice.
Insider’s Tip: Book a room at the luxurious Hotel Tivoli, which features a pool for the kids and a spa for adults.
What to do with your kids in Lisbon
Portugal’s capital bursts with fun activities for all ages. You can discover vibrant cultural sites or simply enjoy the fantastic weather. If you’re searching for things to do in Lisbon with children, consider these top activities for kids in Lisbon:
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Ride the iconic yellow trams, such as Tram 28, for a scenic and educational journey through historic neighborhoods.
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Take advantage of Lisbon’s unique transportation, including three famous elevators and the Santa Justa Lift, which let kids experience the excitement of rising above the city.
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Visit the Castelo de São Jorge where children can wander through ancient ruins, pretend to be royalty, and spot resident peacocks.
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Plan a day trip to Sintra, explore the bold Pena Palace, and let your kids roam the mysterious wells and tunnels of Quinta da Regaleira.
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Head to the Jardim Zoológico to see over 2,000 animals, ride a miniature train, enjoy the petting zoo, and stroll through botanical gardens.
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Experience the Lisbon Oceanarium, the largest indoor aquarium in Europe, located in the modern Parque das Nações, which also offers cable car rides and bike rentals.
Enjoy the sun and sand
When the weather stays nice—which is often—you should head straight to one of Lisbon’s best beaches. You can easily reach Carcavelos, Estoril, and Cascais by train from Cais do Sodré. These beaches are perfect for families, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants and easy access to everything you need.
Alternatively, cross the river to find the family-friendly Praia da Alburrica or Costa da Caparica. You can relax on the sand, enjoy a snack at a seaside café, or even sign up for a family surf lesson. When someone comes by selling bolas de Berlim (sugary cream-filled doughnuts), make sure you grab one—or several!
Discover Belém and Alcântara
You will find these two neighborhoods just beyond the center, toward Cascais. Alcântara is an up-and-coming area best known for LX Factory, an epic cultural center full of local shops and gourmet food. Since kids love books, don’t miss Ler Devagar, a breathtaking bookstore with towering shelves and ladders.
No trip to Lisbon feels complete without visiting Belém. There, you can visit the impressive Jerónimos Monastery, Torre de Belém, and Monument to the Discoveries. Plan to spend time in the tranquil parks nearby. The MAAT welcomes children with interactive exhibits on art, architecture, and technology.
Before you leave Belém, you must stop by the world-famous Pastéis de Belém pastry shop. Try Lisbon’s legendary pastéis de nata (often called pastéis de Belém)! And while you’re in the area, don’t forget to try more sweet treats.
How to Devour Lisbon with kids
Traveling with kids doesn’t prevent you from enjoying Portuguese cuisine. Lisbon offers options for all tastes, from the most adventurous to the pickiest eaters. Even in super traditional tascas, you’ll find something for everyone if you know what to request.
When you explore Lisbon’s food scene with your children, you’ll discover:
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Delicious and famous pastéis de nata alongside traditional treats like pão de Deus (a sweet bun with coconut) and pão de ló (sponge cake).
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Kid-approved desserts such as baba de camelo (a super sweet caramel pudding) and salame de chocolate, which looks like salami but tastes like chocolate cookie dough.
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Tasty savory snacks, including healthy vegetable soups, salgados (savory pastries stuffed with chicken, meat, or seafood), and the classic combo of bread with local cheese.
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Toasted sandwiches (tostas) filled with cheese, ham, tomato, and more, which you can find in almost every Portuguese café.
Where to eat when visiting Lisbon with kids
While most cafés and restaurants in Portugal happily welcome kids, certain spots stand out for families. You will have the best experience if you choose places with lots of options. Head to the Time Out Market where you’ll find an incredible selection of food, making it one of the top child-friendly restaurants Lisbon offers.
For a simpler vibe, try A Merendeira for caldo verde, pão com chouriço, and arroz doce. When you crave something cold and sweet, Nannarella serves gelato, while Quinta dos Açores offers ice cream with traditional Azorean flavors.
Other must-visit spots include Manteigaria for excellent pastéis de nata outside Belém and O Trevo for no-frills bifanas and salgados. If you want to sample both—plus much more—join us on a family-friendly food tour in Lisbon!
FAQ: Lisbon with Kids
What are the best family activities Lisbon offers for children?
Lisbon bursts with family-friendly activities! You can explore the Lisbon Oceanarium, ride the iconic Tram 28, visit the Castelo de São Jorge, and spend time at the Lisbon Zoo. Don’t miss a stroll through Belém for its historic sites and delicious pastéis de nata.
Where can I find Lisbon attractions for kids that are both fun and educational?
The best Lisbon attractions for kids combine fun with learning. You can visit the Lisbon Oceanarium, MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology), and the Pavilhão do Conhecimento (Science Museum) for interactive exhibits. Additionally, exploring the historic trams and elevators creates a unique and memorable experience.
Are there many child-friendly restaurants Lisbon has to offer?
Absolutely! Lisbon’s welcoming atmosphere ensures many restaurants, such as the Time Out Market and A Merendeira, have diverse menus perfect for kids. Look for casual eateries and local cafés with tostas, soups, and sweet pastries that appeal to younger palates.
What are the top things to do in Lisbon with children on a short trip?
You should ride the trams, visit the Oceanarium, explore the Castelo de São Jorge, and relax on one of Lisbon’s easily accessible beaches. These highlights guarantee the whole family has a memorable experience, even on a tight schedule.
Want to see all of Lisbon’s must-see sights in one day? Join our Best of Lisbon Walking Tour with River Cruise, Jeronimos Monastery, & Alfama to explore the city alongside a local expert – and kids are welcome, too!
