Exploring Lisbon Together: A Family Guide to the City and Surroundings
Lisbon is a city of hills, history, and heart. It invites travelers of all ages to explore its colorful streets, taste its flavors, and discover the culture that makes Portugal unforgettable. Whether you’re traveling with children, parents, or grandparents, Lisbon offers experiences that bring families together while keeping things comfortable and accessible.
Lisbon’s famous Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho) is a vibrant mix of color, culture, and fun — stop by for a family photo during the day or feel the energy at night
Family-Friendly Accommodations
When traveling with groups of diverse ages and mobility, choosing the right place to stay is key. Neighborhoods like Baixa, Chiado, and Avenida da Liberdade are centrally located with flat, walkable streets and easy access to public transport. Look for accommodations with breakfast included options, since most offer expansive breakfast buffets where even picky eaters can find something they like. Fueling up with a big breakfast is an easy way to save money and time, so you can spend the day sightseeing and just grab light snacks before dinner.
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Pros
Flat, walkable streets — perfect for families with strollers.
Central hub with easy connections to trams and metro.
Lively squares (Praça do Comércio, Rossio) great for kids to explore.
Wide range of budget-friendly hotels and restaurants.
Cons
Tourist-heavy, which means more crowds and pickpockets.
Can feel less authentic compared to other neighborhoods.
Less green space for kids to play.
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Pros
Central location with easy walking access to main sights.
Vibrant atmosphere with theaters, bookstores, and cultural spots.
Family-friendly cafés and bakeries nearby.
A nice blend of old charm and modern amenities.
Cons
Can be busy and crowded, especially during peak hours.
Hilly streets may be tough for some.
Some noise at night from restaurants and nightlife.
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Pros
Wide, tree-lined boulevard that’s stroller-friendly.
Safe, quieter atmosphere compared to the historic center.
Easy access to metro and public transport.
Close to upscale shops, cafés, and parks.
Cons
Hotels and dining tend to be more expensive.
Lacks the historic charm and “old Lisbon” feel.
Not as many family-oriented attractions right outside your door.
Accessible and Flexible Transport
Lisbon’s hills are charming but can be challenging for little legs and older travelers. Here are some tried-and-true ways to move around with ease:
Forget the stroller: Use a front or back carrier for smaller children. Using a carrier or backpack for kids up to age 4 can be a lifesaver on long walking days, helping the group keep a steady pace without slowing down. Build in some down time at fun stores, playgrounds, or parklets to keep the everyone engaged.
Trains: Use regional trains to connect to nearby cities like Cascais, or short Lisbon routes such as from Belém to Cais do Sodré.
Tuk-tuks: Fun for everyone and a great way to see the sights when feet are tired. Be willing to negotiate fares and customize your route with the driver.
Hippo Boat tours: These amphibious vehicles start on land and then splash into the Tagus River, making sightseeing fun and unique. Typically, 90 minutes this is a fun and easy way to see the highlights of Lisbon. You can then circle back to high interest sights when you have more time.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: A flexible way to see the city at your own pace, especially helpful for families with different energy levels.
Ride shares: Uber and Bolt are widely available and often easier than taxis. It’s important to note that cars in Europe tend to be smaller so traveling with larger groups or with luggage will require multiple ride shares.
Family Highlight in Lisbon
Lisbon Oceanarium
Located in the modern Parque das Nações district, the Lisbon Oceanarium is one of the largest in Europe and a must-see for families if you like aquariums. Its massive central tank is truly breathtaking, with sharks, rays, sea turtles, and colorful fish all swimming together in one vast ecosystem. It is by far one of the best aquariums we’ve seen….in large part do to the central tank. Outdoors, kids will love the playful penguins and otters, making the visit both educational and entertaining. It’s the perfect outing for all ages to enjoy.
Special Exhibit for Kids
Little ones can let their imaginations swim wild at a small designated play space and interactive digital aquarium. Kids draw their own sea creatures, then watch them magically appear and move across a giant digital aquarium wall. It is colorful, fun, and always gets big smiles from children (and parents too).
For a special treat, step outside the Oceanarium and board the Telecabine Lisboa gondola. It glides above the Tagus River, offering sweeping views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge and the city skyline. Our family loves gondolas, so whenever we get the chance to ride one, we never pass it up.
Lisbon Aquarium
A Stroll Through Alfama, Baixa, and Chiado
To see the sights and sounds of Lisbon and experience the city’s historical hub, begin your journey in Praça do Comércio, the grand riverside square where children can run across the wide open space while parents take in the sweeping views of the Tagus River. Kids will love the street vendors who blow giant bubbles, and for just a euro, it’s a simple little thrill that always brings big smiles.
From there, wander into Alfama, the city’s oldest district, with its maze of winding alleys, tiled façades, and hidden viewpoints that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Enjoy the slower pace here, with plenty of spots to stop for a snack or simply soak in the atmosphere.
Family Travel Tip: Exploring Alfama & São Jorge Castle
Why Visit
Alfama is the heart of old Lisbon, filled with history, music, and charm. A stop at the Fado Museum offers a glimpse into Portugal’s most soulful tradition, while the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), the city’s oldest and most famous church, provides a stunning look at centuries of history and architecture.
What Kids Love
The climb up to São Jorge Castle is an adventure in itself, with winding paths, stone walls, and plenty of space to explore. Once at the top, kids and adults alike will be wowed by panoramic views of Lisbon’s rooftops and the Tagus River.
Parent Tip
If the line to enter the castle is long, save the time. The views from the outside terraces are just as fantastic and perfect for family photos. Pair the visit with a stop for a snack or gelato in Alfama’s narrow streets on the way back down.
If time allows, continue into Baixa and Chiado, where you will find bustling shopping streets, lively cafés perfect for a mid-afternoon break, and elegant architecture that showcases Lisbon’s charm. These neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot, rich with history and culture, and offer something for everyone in the family, making them a must for your Lisbon itinerary.
Belém
On another day, take time to explore Belém, home to some of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. The Jerónimos Monastery is one of Lisbon’s great landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admired for its elaborate Manueline architecture, detailed stone carvings, and peaceful cloisters. Inside, you will find the tomb of Vasco da Gama, the legendary Portuguese explorer, along with other important figures from Portugal’s past.
To avoid long entry lines which can be up to 45 to 60 min long, plan to arrive 15 minutes before opening or head over after 3 p.m. when the large tour groups have gone. You will thank us later!
Belém is also home to several excellent museums that are also enjoyable for families. The National Coach Museum showcases a collection of ornate royal carriages, while the Maritime Museum has a vast collection of model ships and walks you through the impressive naval history of Portugal. The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) offers interactive exhibits in a modern riverside building, while the Science Museum provides hands-on learning experiences perfect for curious kids. Consider purchasing the Lisbon Card, available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, it is an excellent choice if you plan to visit the Jerónimos Monastery, several museums, or even make a trip to Sintra. Since admission fees can add up quickly, the pass offers great value and can save you a significant amount when planned in advance.
No visit to Belém feels complete without a ride in a horse-drawn carriage which you will find in the park directly across from the Monastery. The horses move along at a lively pace, offering a different perspective of the neighborhood. You may not cover more ground than on foot, but it is a fun 20 min experience and relatively inexpensive. And for a snack check out the famous Pastéis de Belém, warm custard tarts sprinkled with cinnamon.
In our opinion, the Pastéis de Belém custard tarts are terrific, but if you want something just as good if not better without the wait, head next door to Manteigaria. You’ll get a warm pastel de nata fresh out of the oven without the line, just as delicious, and in a fraction of the time.
A charming horse-drawn carriage ride through Belém, Lisbon, seeing this historic district from a unique perspective.
Lisbon Day Trips: Adventures Just Outside the City
Lisbon is amazing, but stepping outside the city for a day or two lets you see a whole new side of Portugal. Whether it’s castles, beaches, or little villages, these easy trips make your adventure even more fun and memorable.
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A fairytale town just 40 minutes from Lisbon, Sintra is known for its palaces, gardens, and mysterious atmosphere. Families will love exploring Pena Palace, the Quinta da Regaleira, and the exotic gardens of Monserrate Palace. For more information, check out our Sintra Guidebook - Essential Travel Guide to Sintra for Families.
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Known as the Portuguese Riviera, Cascais is perfect for a seaside escape. Families can stroll the beaches, take a dolphin-watching adventure, or kayak along the scenic coastline for a perfect morning.
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Step back in time in Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Highlights include the Roman Temple of Diana, the Chapel of Bones, and the city’s medieval streets. About 90 min from Lisbon, Évora offers a slower pace that is suitable for everyone.
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South of Lisbon lies Arrábida National Park, a perfect day trip from Lisbon. The park features hiking paths, sandy beaches such as Praia da Figueirinha and Praia dos Coelhos, boat rides along the Sado estuary, and cheese and wine tasting in Azeitão. It’s an ideal spot for families to relax, swim, and enjoy nature.
A Taste of Portugal: Family-Friendly Cuisine
Portuguese cuisine is both family-friendly and full of flavor, typically served without the spice. While you should try grilled sardines and Bacalhau à Brás, going beyond these classics will bring memorable new experiences. I’d encourage you to sample the incredible variety of fresh seafood, caught daily along Portugal’s Atlantic coast, from tender octopus to clams in garlicky sauce. Traditional recipes such as caldo verde (a comforting kale and potato soup) or frango piri-piri (spicy grilled chicken) offer hearty meals that appeal to kids and adults alike. In my opinion the Portuguese are among the best in the world at cooking seafood and meat dishes. It’s simple in preparation but absolutely fresh, tender, and so delicious. Pair it with a bottle of VInho Verde for the adults and fresh squeezed orange juice for the kids and you have a perfect meal. Some dishes to try include:
Feijoada de Marisco: A rich seafood stew.
Arroz de Marisco: A comforting rice dish brimming with shellfish.
Caldo Verde: A beloved kale and potato soup, often served with chorizo.
Polvo à Lagareiro: Tender octopus baked with olive oil and garlic.
Carne de Porco à Alentejana: A flavorful mix of pork and clams from the Alentejo region.
For dessert, try a slice of Brigadeiro cake or gelato at Santini or Nannarella. Beyond the food, restaurants tend to be very welcoming to children with kids’ menus and coloring books, while outdoor terraces create a relaxed dining experience.
Navigation Tip
Download useful apps such as CP Trains for rail schedules, Google Maps for navigation, and ride-share apps like Uber or Bolt. These make moving around Lisbon and its surroundings far smoother.
Get our Lisbon Walking Guide to discover hidden corners, scenic viewpoints, and family-friendly routes.
Final Thoughts
Lisbon is a city that brings generations together. With its welcoming neighborhoods, family-friendly attractions, accessible transport, and day trips full of adventure, it’s the perfect base for discovering the beauty of Portugal. We hope you love it as much as we do. For help planning your trip reach out to us at landseeportugal.com. Itinerary planning is complimentary!