Weekend Family Guide to Lisbon

Explore Alfama District: Start your day by exploring Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, and let the kids marvel at the colorful buildings, tiled facades, and hidden courtyards. Along the way, you’ll find local shops selling traditional crafts and treats.

Visit São Jorge Castle: Next, head up to São Jorge Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. The castle itself is a hit with kids, who will enjoy exploring the ramparts, towers, and the small museum inside. There’s plenty of space for children to run around, and the views alone make the visit worthwhile.

Tram 28 Ride: After visiting the castle, hop on the iconic Tram 28. This historic yellow tram winds its way through some of Lisbon’s most famous neighborhoods, including Alfama, Baixa, and Bairro Alto. The ride is a fun and unique way for the family to see the city, and kids will love the experience of riding an old-fashioned tram.

Lunch at a Traditional Tasca: Stop for lunch at a traditional tasca (a small, family-run restaurant) in the Baixa or Chiado neighborhood. Many tascas offer simple, hearty Portuguese dishes like grilled fish, rice, and pastéis de bacalhau (codfish cakes) that are sure to please both kids and adults. Look for places with outdoor seating to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Visit the Oceanário de Lisboa: After lunch, head to the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe. Located in the modern Parque das Nações district, the Oceanário is a fantastic family attraction. Kids will be fascinated by the diverse marine life, including sharks, rays, penguins, and colorful tropical fish. The central tank is particularly impressive, giving visitors a 360-degree view of the underwater world.

Explore Parque das Nações: After your visit to the Oceanário, spend some time exploring Parque das Nações. This modern district, built for the 1998 World Expo, offers plenty of green spaces, playgrounds, and a riverside promenade where the kids can run around and play.

Dinner with a View: For dinner, head to a family-friendly restaurant with views of the Tagus River. Many restaurants in the Parque das Nações or along the riverfront in Belém offer outdoor seating and a variety of dishes that cater to families.

Cable Car Ride: After dinner, take a ride on the cable car in Parque das Nações. The ride offers stunning views of the river, the Vasco da Gama Bridge, and the surrounding area. It’s a relaxing way to end the day while enjoying the sunset.

Visit the Jerónimos Monastery: Start your second day in Belém, a district known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful examples of Manueline architecture. While the intricate carvings and grand scale of the monastery are sure to impress adults, kids will enjoy exploring the cloisters and imagining what life was like for the monks who once lived there.

Explore Belém Tower: After the monastery, take a short walk to the nearby Belém Tower. This fortress, which once guarded the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor, is another UNESCO World Heritage site. Kids will love climbing up the narrow stairs to the top for great views of the river and the surrounding area.

Try Pastéis de Belém: No visit to Belém is complete without a stop at the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery. These delicious custard tarts are a Lisbon specialty, and the bakery has been making them for nearly two centuries. Enjoy a sweet treat with the family, either at the bakery or as a takeaway to enjoy in the nearby gardens.

Picnic in the Gardens: If the weather is nice, pick up some picnic supplies from a local market or bakery and enjoy lunch in the Jardim Botânico Tropical or along the riverfront in Belém. Both spots offer plenty of space for the kids to play and relax.

Lunch at a Riverside Café: Alternatively, choose a café along the riverfront in Belém for a relaxed lunch with views of the water. Many cafés in this area offer outdoor seating and menus that cater to families.

Visit the Lisbon Zoo: In the afternoon, head to the Lisbon Zoo, located in the Sete Rios district. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and dolphins. The zoo also features a cable car that offers a bird’s-eye view of the animal enclosures, and a petting farm where younger children can interact with smaller animals.

Relax in Eduardo VII Park: After your visit to the zoo, spend some time relaxing in Eduardo VII Park, one of the largest green spaces in Lisbon. The park features beautiful gardens, wide walking paths, and stunning views over the city. It’s a great spot for an afternoon stroll or to let the kids play in the playground.

Dinner in Bairro Alto: For your final evening, head to the lively Bairro Alto neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent restaurants. Many restaurants in this area offer traditional Portuguese cuisine and a family-friendly atmosphere. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a live Fado performance, a traditional Portuguese music genre that adds to the cultural experience.

Treat at a Gelato Shop: End your day with a visit to a gelato shop for a sweet treat. Lisbon has several excellent gelaterias where you can indulge in delicious ice cream as you take a final evening stroll through the city.

Transportation: Lisbon’s public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro, is efficient and easy to navigate. Consider getting a Lisboa Card, which offers unlimited travel on public transport and discounts at many attractions.

Comfortable Shoes: Lisbon is a city of hills, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan on walking around neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto.

Kid-Friendly Attractions: In addition to the main attractions, Lisbon has many parks, playgrounds, and child-friendly museums, such as the Pavilhão do Conhecimento (Knowledge Pavilion), a science museum with interactive exhibits that kids will love.