Heading to Lisbon with the kids and looking to hit the ground running with a lineup of cool things to do? You’re in luck!
You’ve stumbled upon the ultimate guide to kid-friendly adventures in Lisbon! This city is brimming with unique and exciting activities that the whole family will love.
From hidden gems to the must-see attractions, we’re about to explore them all. So, buckle up and let’s dive into the vibrant heart of Lisbon together! You can also use this 3-day Lisbon itinerary or pair Lisbon with another region for a 1-week Portugal itinerary.
But first, read these Portugal trip planning tips and find out how much a trip to Portugal costs. Also, see my picks for the best family hotels in Portugal.
Fun things to do in Lisbon with Kids
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Discover the Wonders of Oceanário de Lisboa
If your kids are fascinated by the underwater world, then the Oceanário de Lisboa is a must-visit spot in Lisbon. It’s not just any aquarium; it’s Europe’s largest indoor aquarium, where you can come face-to-face with a vast array of marine life.
Our family had a lot of fun wandering through the Oceanário, meeting everything from tiny colorful fish to majestic sharks and even playful penguins. It’s a unique chance for the kids to see these creatures up close, in environments that mimic their natural habitats from oceans around the world.
Besides the awe-inspiring sights, the Oceanário offers educational tours that are perfect for curious minds. These tours go beyond just seeing; they’re about learning the stories of these marine species, understanding the ecosystems they live in, and discovering why it’s important to protect our oceans.
So, if watching a school of fish dart through the water or seeing a shark glide gracefully by sounds like a perfect day out for your family, the Oceanário de Lisboa is the place to be.
Take a Ride on the Historic Tram 28
Kids love riding trams, and in Lisbon, the historic Tram 28 turns an ordinary ride into an extraordinary adventure! Riding this iconic yellow tram is also a sneaky way for the parents to get a break from all the walking and hill climbing required in Lisbon. You can just sit back and ride past the famous landmarks on these picturesque streets.
This tram has been taking people all around Lisbon for a long time. Make sure to get a seat by the window, so your kids can see all the cool sights and busy streets of Lisbon as you go by.
Adventure in the Lisbon Zoo (Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa)
Another one of the fun things to do with kids in Lisbon is to visit the Lisbon Zoo. It’s a fantastic place where your little ones can see their favorite animals not just in pictures, but up close and in real life.
The zoo isn’t just about walking around and looking at animals. There are interactive shows, a petting zoo where kids can gently touch and learn about certain animals. Then there is even a cable car ride that offers stunning views over the zoo and its inhabitants.
It’s an adventure-packed day that combines fun with learning, solidifying its spot as a must-do for families exploring Lisbon.
Sample Pasteis de Nata
Even if your kids aren’t game for a food tour, you need to sample the delicious egg custard tarts known as Pastel de Nata. The most famous place is Pasteis de Belem, in the suburb of Belem. This is a good stop if you are visiting the Belem Tower, Monument to the Discoveries, or Jeronimos Monastery, but expect a big line.
I happen to be a fan of the pasteis de nata that you can find at Time Out Market.
Explore the Interactive Pavilion of Knowledge (Pavilhão do Conhecimento)
Another fantastic spot kids love is the Interactive Pavilion of Knowledge, or Pavilhão do Conhecimento. At the Pavilion of Knowledge, your kids can experiment with physics, get up close with biology, and even step into the shoes of an astronaut for a day.
It’s all about touching, playing, and exploring, which is the best way for kids (and let’s be honest, adults too) to learn something new.
Whether it’s creating giant bubbles, exploring the mysteries of the universe, or understanding the mechanics behind everyday objects, the Pavilion offers endless opportunities for discovery.
It’s the perfect way to inspire a love of learning and curiosity about the world, making it a must-visit for families in Lisbon.
Ride the Santa Justa Lift
Next up on our list of cool things to do in Lisbon is the Santa Justa Lift. It’s a strangely beautiful outdoor elevator if you can believe it.
To skip the long lines, a neat trick is to enter from the back side, near the top. This way, you get to enjoy the ride and the view without the wait.
Explore São Jorge Castle
The next one on our list, especially for the little adventurers, is the Lisbon Castle, officially known as São Jorge Castle. When kids hear that there’s a real castle in Lisbon where they can actually go and climb the walls, their eyes light up!
This historic fortress not only offers a glimpse into Portugal’s past but also provides plenty of space for kids to explore and let their imaginations run wild.
Walking along the ancient ramparts and towers gives them a chance to pretend they’re knights or princesses from centuries ago. A tip for the parents is to go at sunset for the most amazing views of the city.
Eat at a Medieval Restaurant
If you’ve got teenagers with you in Lisbon, check out Trobadores for dinner. It’s a cool medieval-themed restaurant that’s way more fun for older kids.
You’ll eat in a place that looks like it’s from a knight’s tale, and there might even be some live medieval music or performances. Perfect for teens who want to do something a bit different and really cool.
Be sure to get a reservation here, especially if you are visiting in the peak season.
Take a Sunset Sail
A great way to start or finish your trip to Lisbon is with a sunset sail along the Tagus River. You will pass under the 25 de Abril Bridge (reminiscent of the Golden Gate Bridge), past the famous sights in Belem, and along the heart of Commerce Square.
This is a wonderful way to remember your trip to an amazing city!
Fairy-Tale Day at Sintra
If you have the time, don’t miss a magical trip to Sintra! Located 40 minutes on a direct train is the coolest place we’ve ever visited. It’s like walking into a fairy tale, with cool castles and beautiful gardens everywhere you look.
Sintra’s got this awesome palace called Peña Palace that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook, with bright colors and neat towers.
Kids love exploring here, and honestly, it’s pretty amazing for grown-ups too. It’s a super fun day out for the whole family, with lots of amazing stuff to see.
Depending on the ages of your kids it could be smart to do an organized private tour. It can get really busy during peak travel season.
Enjoy the Beaches Near Lisbon
If you are a beach loving family, take a day trip to Cascais from Lisbon! It is also only a 40 minute train ride away.
Cascais has more to offer than just the beach. There’s the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, a museum set in a stunning castle-like building.
It’s like stepping back in time with its cool collection of antiques, paintings, and even a mini-library that looks like something out of a Harry Potter movie.
Then there’s the Santa Maria Lighthouse, which is not just any lighthouse. It’s a spot where you can learn about the science of lighthouses and enjoy some amazing views of the ocean.
It’s a fun way to mix a little education with adventure and get some fantastic photos to remember your trip by.
So, while Cascais’ beaches are worth a visit, make sure you don’t miss out on these other cool places that make the town extra special.
Make Day Trip to Faro
If you and the family are early risers and ready for an adventure, setting off to Faro from Lisbon can be a fantastic and totally doable day trip.
Faro, is a 3-hour train ride from Lisbon city center. Once there, the kids will have a blast discovering the medieval walls, wildlife in the Ria Formosa lagoon, and the endless sandy shores.
If your kids are a little older they might love visiting the “Bone Chappel” also known as Capela dos Ossos de Faro. There are even fun Tuk-Tuk tours that will take you all around Faro to the best sights!
5 Tips Parents Should Know When Visiting Lisbon
- Be Prepared for Hills and Cobbled Streets: Lisbon is famous for its beautiful, but steep, hills. When you’re out with the kids, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and consider a sturdy stroller for little ones. It’ll make exploring much easier and more enjoyable for everyone. You will want non-slip shoes as the smooth tiles of the sidewalks can be quite slick in the rain.
- Public Transport is Your Friend: The city’s trams, buses, and metros are not only a fun experience but also a practical way to get around. The historic Tram 28 is a hit with kids, but remember, it can get crowded. Planning your rides during less busy times can make the journey more pleasant.
- Take Advantage of Lisbon’s Parks and Playgrounds: Need a break from sightseeing? Check out one of the many playgrounds in Lisbon where kids can run around and parents can relax. Jardim da Estrela and Parque das Nações are two great options with lots of room to play and beautiful scenery.
- Keep Meal Times Flexible: Portuguese dining times can be later than what many families are used to, with dinner often starting at 8 PM or later. Look for family-friendly restaurants that serve earlier meals, or consider having a larger lunch and a lighter dinner to keep everyone’s hunger in check.
- Sintra and Cascais Are Worth the Trip: If you’re deciding between a visit to Sintra or Cascais, try to make time for both. Each offers a unique experience that’s a short trip from Lisbon. Sintra is perfect for exploring castles and palaces, while Cascais offers beautiful beaches and relaxed vibes. Both are great for a family day out.
As we finish up I hope you are feeling more prepared for this fun family trip to Lisbon! From climbing castle walls to learning cool stuff at the science museum, there’s a lot to keep everyone excited.
So, get ready for an adventure in Lisbon where you and your family can make lots of fun memories. Have a great trip!
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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.
