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Lisbon with kids; discover 25 of the best activities
Are you travelling to Lisbon with kids and wondering which sights will keep them busy? Find out the best sights in Lisbon to visit with your children! There is a lot to do for all ages, and the Portuguese capital is perfect for a family holiday.
We don’t have children, but I work a lot with families in Lisbon and help them plan trips or photo shoots in town. Whether it’s visiting the famous Oceanário, dolphin watching on the Tagus River, or spotting peacocks at São Jorge Castle, it’s always amazing to see Lisbon through kids’ eyes!
I have collected 25 fun activities for kids in Lisbon that adults can enjoy just as much! I will also include some child-friendly hotels and restaurants, and fun day trips to undertake during your Lisbon holiday.
Lisbon with kids quick guide
What to do in Lisbon with kids: here are 25 ideas!
Visiting Lisbon with kids is a great idea, but you may need help figuring out where to start your family vacation. This blog post will help you make some plans and discover fun activities in Lisbon for families. Fingers crossed, it will help you save time, and your children will love their time in the city! Let’s discover the 25 best things to do in Lisbon with kids!
1. Oceanário de Lisboa
Undoubtedly, the Oceanário de Lisboa is a popular tourist attraction for children to visit! The Lisbon aquarium is one of the world’s largest aquariums, and you get to see more than 8,000 sea creatures! The five-million-litre huge central tank is a highlight for many, and you’ll spot sharks, sea otters, rays, and even a sunfish! The Oceanário’s conservation programs help save our oceans, and your visit will support their good cause. If your kids like marine life, visiting the aquarium will be a huge success!
👉 It can be busy, so ensure you buy tickets online!
2. Telecabine Lisbon
Next to the Oceanário de Lisboa, you can ride on the Telecabine Lisbon! The cable car travels between the south and north stations, and you can enjoy a journey with views of the Tagus River and the Vasco da Gama Bridge. You get to admire Parque das Nações and have a panoramic view of the Tagus River Estuary and the south bank of Lisbon.
The price for an adult is € 7,50 one way or € 9,50 return. Children up to two years old can enter for free, and children from 3 to 12 years pay € 5,50 for a one-way journey or € 6,50 for a round trip.
3. Visit Benfica Stadium and join the Estádio da Luz Tour
Attention to all football lovers! Benfica Stadium is open for visits! During the Estádio da Luz Tour, you’ll walk in the footsteps of S.L. Benfica’s legendary players and take a look backstage. You’ll discover where the 2014 Champions League final occurred, visit the changing rooms, and walk through the player’s tunnel. In the S.L. Benfica Cosme Damião Museum, you’ll learn more about the club and the players.
The tour lasts around 2,5 hours, and guides are available in Chinese, English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish. Estádio da Luz is open between 10 AM and 5 PM daily, and guided tours occur every 30 minutes.
4. A family photoshoot in Lisbon
Are you looking for a memorable experience in Lisbon? Booking a photographer will help you capture your special time in the city! I have been working as a professional photographer since 2012 and offer photoshoots throughout Lisbon.
A private photo shoot with just you and your children is a lovely way to see the city and create long-lasting memories. Read more about photoshoots in Lisbon or fill in the contact form to learn more.
I would love to meet you and record some memorable moments of your Lisbon family vacation. Prices range from €125.00 for a 30-minute mini shoot to €195.00 for a 1.5-hour photo walk. After the shoot, you’ll receive all high-res images. Custom packages are also available on request.
Book your photo shoot in Lisbon with me
Contact me for more information and availability! I’d love to meet you in person!
5. World of Heroes
Time to grab a bite to eat! There is no more adventurous place than the World of Heroes! The restaurant has a superhero theme, and besides enjoying a meal, you’ll enjoy time with your favourite superhero! Do you want to eat with Spiderman, the Hulk or Captain America? Then it’s best to make a reservation as the restaurant is often fully booked!
The menu includes pizzas, hamburgers, and salads. Afterwards, you can indulge in some of the tastiest desserts. There is something on the menu for everyone, including vegans! Will you go for the nachos, the Wonder Wings, the ribs, or the Ultimate Crispy Salad?
6. Castelo de São Jorge
A trip to Lisbon is only complete with a visit to a castle! Castelo de São Jorge is located on top of the hill in the oldest neighbourhood, Alfama. You’ll enjoy one of the best views over Lisbon from here!
Travel Tip!
Come early in the day or close to sunset. You’ll spend less time in the queue, and the light is beautiful around this time! Bus 737 stops in front of the castle, so you don’t have to walk up. A regular taxi (not Uber or Bolt) can also drop you off at the gate.
Learn more about the castle’s history and discover what to see. Your kids will love all the peacocks that live here! It makes it one of the best things to do in Lisbon with kids! Especially during the high season, the waiting time to enter the castle can be extensive. Buy your tickets online to save time! You’ll even receive a self-guided audio tour (English, French, Spanish) on your smartphone. Children under 12 can visit for free.
Tip!
Discover Miradouro do Recolhimento, a few minutes’ walk from the castle entrance. This is a gorgeous viewpoint, and there is also a playground for kids.
7. Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa
The Zoo in Lisbon is called Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa. Lisbon Zoo helps to protect and preserve species, and they have an extensive conservation program. The zoo is easy to reach by the metro Blue Line, and you’ll meet many unique animals during your visit.
Enjoy the cable car ride, visit the Enchanted Forest or discover unique species in the Reptile House. At the Children’s Farm, you’ll find more about domestic animals, and it’s an unforgettable experience for children. You’ll literally be taking a trip around the world in one day!
8. The HIPPOtrip: Amphibious Bus and Boat Tour
Ready for an adventure on land AND water? During the Hippotrip, you’ll first discover the highlights of Lisbon by road. You’ll drive along sights like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. But then, you’ll go off-road and move onto the River Tagus! The bus turns into a boat, and you enjoy Lisbon from the river. The journey passes by Padrão dos Descobrimentos and the Torre VTS.
9. A boat tour on the Tagus
With good weather, there is nothing better than being outside! And what better way than to spend a few hours on the water? From Belém, many boats depart to enjoy a boat tour along the river Tagus. You’ll sail along Torre de Belém, the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge, and Praça do Comércio. There are tours during the day and sunsets with the best views of Lisbon!
10. Dolphin watching in Lisbon
Did you know the Tagus River streams from Lisbon into the Atlantic Ocean? And did you know you can spot dolphins and other sea life near the city? Seeing the dolphins up close is one of the best things to do with kids in Lisbon. You’ll sail along the Lisbon monuments in Belém, the Estoril Coast, and towards Cascais. The marine biologist will tell you a lot about marine life in Portugal and the habitat the dolphins live in.
11. Grab an ice cream!
Especially on warm days, there is nothing better than eating ice cream! Lisbon has many unique places to enjoy gelato, but some are extra special. Take Scoop n Dough, for example! They mastered making the most delicious handmade doughnuts and offer a fantastic range of vegan ice creams! And you don’t have to be vegan to enjoy their tasty frozen delights! They are located in Lisbon and Cascais!
Another favourite is Santini, which has locations in Chiado and Belém. Their ice creams have the perfect texture and are served in the most diverse flavours! You can also indulge in Italian ice cream at Mú, with salons in the neighbourhood Graça and on Campo dos Mártires da Pátria 50. Other places to try the best ice creams in Lisbon are Nannarela, Artisani, Amorino, and Quinta dos Açores.
12. Take the tram
One of the most adventurous ways to discover Lisbon is by tram! Tram 28 became famous because of the tram ride between the narrow streets of Alfama and the steep hills. The downside is that the queue can be long and there might be no place to sit. Unless you have the Lisboa Card or Navegante Occasional Card, you’ll also pay a higher price to use this way of public transportation.
Please remember that trams are a way for locals to travel to and from work, not tourist trains. Other routes worth taking are Tram 15 and Tram 12. They are less busy, and an old wooden carriage often takes you from A to B.
A great alternative to the busy trams is the Historic Hills Tram Tour. You won’t have to wait long to board this tram, and there are plenty of places to sit! Above all, your ticket is valid for 24 hours, and you can hop on and off whenever you want! It even includes free access to Lisbon’s Santa Justa Elevator and other traditional funiculars.
13. Join a bike tour with Baja Bikes
A sporty activity for families in Lisbon is a bike tour! Baja Bikes offers multilingual guided tours throughout the city, which are very suitable for kids. There are three different tour options, and the route is between Lisbon’s city centre and Belém.
The tours take 3 to 4 hours, and you’ll see many highlights along the way. It’s an excellent and eco-friendly way to visit the city! Child seats, children’s bikes, and tandems are available on request. The child bikes are perfect for kids aged 7 to 9.
Reserve your tickets below:
- Lisbon Bike Tour in the morning- From €39,50
Most popular, children under 16 years old pay only €27,50, takes 3.5 – 4 hours, and starts at Marques de Pombal.
- Lisbon Afternoon Bike Tour – From €39,50
Start in Belém, children under 16 years old pay only €27,50, The afternoon bike tour, takes 3,5 hours.
- Private Tour Lisbon – From €39,50
Discover the Portuguese capital at your own pace on a bike, decide your time, start at Marques de Pombal.
14. The Science Museum Pavilhão do Conhecimento
On a rainy day, visiting Pavilhão do Conhecimento is perfect with kids in Lisbon! The Lisbon Science Museum is an educational museum with exhibitions and activities. It’s a fun place for kids and adults, locals and tourists alike! There is 500 m2 of space to make, create, build, and experience! Perfect for curious geeks and cheeky little ones.
The Tinkering Area lets you work with your hands, and there are many challenges to resolve. You can create clothes or print objects in the Maker Area with 3D printers.
15. Quake – Lisbon Earthquake Centre
It’s interesting to visit Quake – Lisbon Earthquake Centre with older children. In 1755, an enormous earthquake struck Portugal and destroyed many buildings, including Lisbon’s city centre. Quake is a relatively new experience that takes you on an incredible journey back to 1755.
You’ll learn not only more about the history but also about the science of earthquakes. Enjoy the 4D immersive experience and the 3 Earthquake Simulators and travel back in time to explore Lisbon in 1755.
16. 3D Fun Art Museum Lisboa
For a rainy day, a museum is, of course, perfect! But a museum with kids? Fortunately, that doesn’t have to be boring at all. You can take the cutest pictures at the 3D Fun Art Museum Lisboa! Float through the air with your kids, hang from a tall building or be two heads shorter than your kids. So bring your camera and enjoy this fun experience!
17. Surf lessons near Lisbon for kids
Adventurous families can also join a surf camp in Portugal! Not far from Lisbon are the perfect beaches to learn how to surf. How about a 7-Day Family Surf Camp in Praia Azul, Lisbon? Or join other mums and their children during the 8-Day Moms and Kids Special Surf and Yoga Camp in Lisbon. There are also family-friendly 2-day and 4-day surf camps nearby!
18. Parks and gardens
Lisbon is a pretty green city with plenty of parks and gardens. Monsanto is the largest, and there are fun playgrounds for kids. Parque Eduardo VII is also large and much closer to the city centre. You can enjoy a tram ride to Jardim da Estrela, a park where locals love to hang out.
Most parks are free, but the botanical gardens have a small entrance fee. I photograph many families at the Lisbon Botanical Gardens, which is nice and quiet. The Tropical Botanical Garden in Belém is also lovely. Estufa Fria is a hidden gem inside Parque Eduardo VII, offering free entrance on Sunday mornings.
19. Arco da Rua Augusta
One place you will most likely see when you visit Lisbon is Praça do Comércio. You can enjoy wonderful views over the Tagus River and also see the Arch, Arco da Rua Augusta. You will see many people walking by, but did you know you can also climb to the top of the arch? The views of the city streets are even better, and there is a huge bell kids love!
20. Pastel de nata baking class
There are also some fun workshops in Lisbon for kids! Take, for example, the pastel de nata baking class! Although they are much fun to eat, baking them is an even more fun way, as you can make them at home after your family holiday too! Perfect for a wet day or for kids who like baking and cooking.
21. Tile painting workshop
Another fun hands-on activity is a tile painting workshop. You can choose your favourite stencil, and the instructor will explain how to create a famous azulejo tile! After drawing and painting, your tile will go into the kiln. You can pick it up or have it shipped to your home address a few days afterwards.
22. Maritime Museum
Planetário de Marinha is perfect for kids who love outer space! There are several exhibitions where you can learn more about the solar system, and the enormous dome is a highlight for many kids! The Navy Planetarium is in Belém, behind the UNESCO World Heritage site Jerónimos Monastery.
Right next to it, you can also visit Museu de Marinha, the Maritime Museum in Lisbon. Here, you’ll discover old model ships and many maritime artifacts. There are often fun educational programs and activities for kids. Nearby, you can also visit the Vasco da Gama Aquarium and even enter a submarine! Check the different price categories before you visit!
23. Lisbon Tuk tuk tour for children
If your children are interested in sightseeing, a tuk-tuk tour is great! Nobody has to walk for miles, and you can see so much in a short period! Discover the old neighbourhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, ride up the steep hills and explore the famous sights in Belém! When it’s sunny, there is plenty of shade, and on colder days, you can wrap up underneath a blanket.
24. Indoor mini golf
Especially between October and April, there is a change. It rains more often in Lisbon. Thankfully, there are plenty of indoor activities for families in Lisbon. The 18-hole indoor minigolf course is a great activity for all ages! Who knows, you have hit a hole-in-one. The golf course has a UV neon light course and a game area with air hockey and football tables.
25. A walking tour in Lisbon for families
A walking tour with commentary might not be ideal for kids, but what if the tour tells you more about the legends, kings, and queens of Lisbon? A special, private, family-friendly walking tour is fantastic, so everyone gets to explore Lisbon while learning more about the city’s tales.
Family-friendly transportation and getting around Lisbon with kids
Lisbon with kids is easy with the extensive public transport system, reliable taxis, and services like Uber. Arranging transport from Lisbon airport to your hotel is advisable to make your arrival easy. This way, you’ll be sure you don’t have to wait long after your flight and will be welcomed by an experienced staff member.
Hiring a car in Lisbon is not needed, and parking can be difficult unless your hotel offers a parking space. If you like venturing out and discovering nearby places in Portugal, renting a car during your holiday is the easiest. You can click the banner to see which cars are available during your stay in Portugal.
Lisbon Day trips for families
If you have time, exploring some amazing places near Lisbon is a great idea. There are many towns, beaches, and nature reserves to pick from, and the selection below contains some fun options for kids, too.
The palaces in Sintra
For a day full of fairytales, Sintra is the place to be! Sintra town is located only 40 minutes from Lisbon by train. You discover many palaces here, such as Quinta da Regaleira, Pena Palace, and Monserrate Palace.
You can visit two to three palaces a day, and staying the night is an excellent idea to discover more places in Sintra. Other sights include the Convent of the Capuchos, the Moorish Castle, Palácio Nacional de Sintra, Villa Sassetti, and Palácio e Parque Biester.
Buying tickets in advance is often a must, especially in the high season, as it’s one of the most popular places to visit outside Lisbon. Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira work with time slots, so booking ahead of time is necessary. Are you strapped for time or prefer an easy day out in Sintra? Then the daily tours are the best! Most excursions visit two palaces, including a Cabo da Roca and Cascais stop! Book your spot below.
Dolphins in Setúbal
Setúbal is a lovely town just south of Lisbon. The area is known for its natural beauty and dolphins! You can step on board in Setúbal, but full-day tours depart from Lisbon regularly. During the cruise, you can spot the bottlenose dolphins in the Sado Estuary. From the boat, you enjoy views over Arrábida Natural Park and Setúbal.
Arrábida Natural Park
Arrábida Natural Park is THE place for adventurous kids and outdoor activities! They might like the kayak and snorkelling tours or even a coasteering adventure! Other options are abseiling, a family-friendly glass-bottom boat, or even paragliding.
Visit the nearby beaches
Lisbon is great for a beach holiday, but where are the best spots for families? Costa da Caparica is one of the longest beaches near Lisbon. Praia Nova, Praia de São João, and Praia da Cabana do Pescador are some of the nearest to Lisbon. It’s also great for surfing, but it can be windy. With small children, I recommend Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira-Mar. You can access the beach and the lagoon area, which kids love! This beach is easiest accessed by car.
There are also beautiful Sintra beaches along the coast! Praia da Ursa is challenging to get to but much loved by families. Praia do Guincho is near Cascais and is loved by surfers. Praia Grande has great facilities. Ericeira is another famous surfing town with many beaches to explore!
Nazaré has the highest waves on earth, so only professionals can surf here, but it’s super cool to see! These waves are at Praia do Norte, and this beach can be dangerous. Praia da Nazaré is much calmer, and in the summer months, there are good facilities.
Dinosaurs and miniatures
An adventurous day trip will bring you to Coimbra to visit Portugal dos Pequenitos, a miniature theme park. It’s one of Portugal’s most popular theme parks, with typical houses and monuments you can discover in Portugal, but in a mini version. Afterwards, you’ll visit the amazing Lourinhã Dino Park, where you see eye-to-eye with dinosaurs. There are more than 200 full-sized models, and it’s even the largest open-air museum in the country.
Where to eat in Lisbon with children
Kids are much loved in Portugal, and most restaurants have no issues facilitating your family! If your kids want to try Portuguese food, you can visit any local Tasca and try the local delicacies. When the menu is handwritten on a piece of paper outside, you know it’s usually an excellent spot to eat.
Your kids might also like pizza, burgers, or other international cuisines. Lisbon has many international options and a lot of places to choose from. Check the ratings online, and ensure to make a reservation if you are with a large group. Here are some recommendations:
- Bar das Colunas (for a local Portuguese experience)
- World of Heroes (including superheroes)
- Trobadores (A Medieval tavern!)
- ZeroZero (Pizza)
- Honest Greens (vegetarian/vegan)
- Mercado de Campo de Ourique (Like Time Out Market but much quieter)
- Atalho Real (perfect if you like meat)
- LX Factory (There are lots of restaurants and street art)
Safe Money!
Enjoy a € 20,00 discount on your next meal! Reserve your table with the code 8362E39E on TheFork.
Lisbon hotels for families
Lisbon has many child-friendly neighbourhoods. Alfama is lovely, but it’s hilly and not ideal for strollers. Instead, you might prefer Príncipe Real. It’s near many restaurants and the botanical gardens. Estrela and Saldanha are lovely, too, but they are more local and less touristy.
If you want to be close to all the sights, Baixa and Chiado in downtown Lisbon are perfect. The hotels near Avenida da Liberdade are wonderful, and Rossio Square is very central. It can be loud near Pink Street and Bairro Alto as there are many bars and a partying public. You can use the map below to zoom in on the neighbourhood of your choice, but I also added three family-friendly accommodations in Lisbon for you.
📍 Budget-friendly accommodation for families: River View Alfama is a gorgeous two-bedroom apartment in the historic neighbourhood. You’re near the highlights in central Lisbon as well as the Oceanarium. Alfama has tons of restaurants, and the apartment is near the castle.
📍 Mid-range gem: My Suite Lisbon is conveniently located in Príncipe Real, and the serviced apartment even has a small garden! You can use a kitchenette, which is super handy to prepare some meals. Adults sleep on a comfortable queen bed, while kids can enjoy the bunk beds in separate rooms. Breakfast can be included too.
📍 A luxury stay for families visiting Lisbon: Lux Lisboa Park offers a luxury stay in a Deluxe Family Room. It’s situated near Marques de Pombal Square and many parks. Breakfast is included, and the hotel has several restaurants. The rooftop pool offers refreshing dips in the summer months and fabulous views over Lisbon!
FAQ
Is Lisbon a good place to visit for the family?
Lisbon is a beautiful destination for a family vacation, and there is a lot to do for kids. Visit the Lisbon Oceanarium, São Jorge Castle or the many parks and museums. Or explore Pena Palace in Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon. There are also many outdoor activities for adventurous families, such as surfing, snorkelling, and abseiling.
How many nights in Lisbon with kids?
Lisbon has many family-friendly attractions, and you will need at least 2 to 3 days in the city. Dive into Lisbon’s history in neighbourhoods like Alfama, enjoy a dolphin-watching excursion or ride the Santa Justa Lift. The Oceanarium is perfect for a rainy day, and there are even museums for children! If you can stay longer, you can also explore the stunning beaches around Lisbon or make a day trip to Sintra and Lourinhã Dino Park.
What are nice things to do with kids in Lisbon?
There are many fun activities in Lisbon for kids. Examples are the Oceanarium, a boat tour (with dolphin watching), the 3D Museum, São Jorge Castle, a ride in the iconic yellow trams, the Belém Tower, and much more!
Conclusion
Visiting Lisbon with kids is a great idea! There is plenty to do, and with so many activities, your kids won’t be bored. Discover Lisbon Oceanarium, one of Europe’s largest aquariums, visit the peacocks at São Jorge Castle, ride the cable car at Parque das Naçoes or enjoy a day at Lisbon Zoo.
In Lisbon, public transportation is easy to use, and many kids enjoy riding on historic trams. You can also try many new meals and international food options during your family vacation. Visit Time Out Market and Mercado da Ribeira to try many flavours or discover Mercado de Campo de Ourique.
More must-see places in Lisbon, Portugal
- Incredible views and things to see at Castelo de São Jorge!
- 10 beautiful sights not to miss in Alfama Lisbon
- Discover the view over Lisbon from the top of Arco da Rua
- An adventurous journey on the Santa Justa Lift in Lisbon
- The magnificent Jerónimos Monastery in Belém
- Inside Torre de Belém, a UNESCO masterpiece in Lisbon
- Inside the stunning Lisbon Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the city
- Inside the National Pantheon in Lisbon and views from the top
- Oceanarium in Lisbon Guide; how to get there, tickets, and incredible species
- Discover the ruins of the Carmo Convent in Lisbon
- The colourful walls of São Vicente de Fora Monastery
- First time in Lisbon: 25 best attractions + travel tips
- Lisbon with kids; discover 25 of the best activities
- LX Factory Lisbon: Creative hub, shops, offices, street art and restaurants
- Fun itinerary for 2 days in Lisbon, Portugal
- 33 incredible and easy day trips from Lisbon
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