Planning a family trip to Portugal can be an exciting yet daunting task. But look no further than Lisbon, a vibrant city brimming with history, culture, and activities that cater to all ages. From exploring ancient castles to relaxing on stunning beaches, Lisbon offers an unforgettable experience for families seeking adventure and cultural immersion. Check out our guide for your Lisbon family holidays.
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Why Visit Lisbon With Kids?
- Rich history and culture: Immerse yourselves in Lisbon’s fascinating past, exploring medieval castles, ancient trams, and iconic landmarks like Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.
- Family-friendly activities: Lisbon boasts an array of activities perfect for kids, from riding historic trams and exploring interactive museums to enjoying puppet shows and attending lively festivals.
- Beautiful beaches: Escape the city bustle and unwind on Lisbon’s pristine beaches, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
- Delicious cuisine: Portugal is renowned for its delectable food, and Lisbon offers a variety of family-friendly options, from fresh seafood and pastel de nata (custard tarts) to hearty stews and grilled meats.
- Safe and welcoming atmosphere: Lisbon is a safe and welcoming city, renowned for its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for families with young children.
Things to Do in Lisbon With Kids
Here are our recommendations on what to do during your Lisbon family holidays:
- Ride the iconic yellow trams: Experience Lisbon like a local by hopping on the historic yellow trams, offering a scenic and fun way to navigate the city.
- Explore Oceanário de Lisboa: Immerse yourselves in the underwater world at Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe, featuring diverse marine life from around the globe.
- Visit Lisbon Zoo: Encounter a variety of animals at Lisbon Zoo, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and many more, offering a fun and educational experience for children.
- Discover Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower: Explore these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, marveling at the intricate architecture and learning about Portugal’s maritime history.
- Enjoy a river cruise: A river cruise along the Tagus River offers beautiful views of the city and is a great way to relax and unwind with the family.
- Enjoy a puppet show at Dona Rosa: Immerse yourselves in the magic of traditional Portuguese puppetry at Dona Rosa, a charming theater offering captivating performances for all ages.
Best Places to Visit in Lisbon With Kids
So, which are some popular attractions to visit on your Lisbon family holidays?
- Praça do Comércio: Explore this grand square, once the heart of Lisbon’s maritime empire, offering stunning views of the Tagus River.
- São Jorge Castle: Climb to the top of São Jorge Castle, Lisbon’s oldest fortification, and enjoy panoramic city views and explore its fascinating history.
- Parque Eduardo VII: Relax and unwind in this expansive park, offering beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and stunning city views.
- Time Out Market Lisbon: Indulge in a culinary adventure at Time Out Market Lisbon, featuring a variety of delicious food stalls showcasing Portugal’s diverse cuisine.
- Gulbenkian Museum: Explore the extensive art collection at the Gulbenkian Museum, housing masterpieces from various periods and cultures, with interactive exhibits designed to engage children.
- Lisbon Zoo: A must-visit for families, the Lisbon Zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world, and kids can enjoy interactive exhibits and shows.
- Lisbon Story Center: This interactive museum is a great way for children to learn about the history of Lisbon in a fun and engaging way.
Where to Stay in Lisbon
Lisbon offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different family needs and budgets. Consider these areas:
- Baixa Pombalina: The city center, offering easy access to major attractions and convenient transportation options.
- Avenida da Liberdade: This upscale area is known for its luxury hotels and designer boutiques, and families can enjoy the beautiful tree-lined streets and gardens.
- Chiado: A vibrant district with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants, ideal for families seeking a lively atmosphere.
- Alfama: The historic district, known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and stunning views.
- Belém: A riverside area with iconic landmarks like Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, offering a peaceful and scenic setting.
- Cascais: A charming seaside town, just outside Lisbon, offering beautiful beaches, family-friendly activities, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Bairro Alto: This bohemian neighborhood is full of restaurants, bars, and shops, and families can enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Lisbon
- Hotel Mundial: Located in the city center, offering spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a kids’ club.
- Sana Reno Hotel: Situated near Parque Eduardo VII, featuring family rooms, a playground, and a rooftop pool with stunning views.
- Corinthia Lisbon: Located in the heart of Lisbon, offering family rooms, a swimming pool, and a kids’ club with various activities.
- Tivoli Avenida Liberdade: A luxurious hotel with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a kids’ club offering fun activities.
- Hotel Pestana Palace Lisboa: A historic hotel with stunning views, family rooms, and a swimming pool, providing a unique and memorable experience.
Best Time to Visit Lisbon
The best time to visit on your Lisbon family holidays depends on your preferences. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather, avoiding the peak summer crowds. July and August are ideal for beach lovers, but be prepared for hot temperatures and larger crowds.
- Spring (March – May): Spring is a great time to visit Lisbon, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June – August): Summer is peak tourist season in Lisbon, with hot temperatures and busy streets.
- Fall (September – November): Fall is a great time to visit Lisbon, with mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage.
- Winter (December – February): Winter is the quietest time to visit Lisbon, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
- Easter: Easter is a popular time to visit Lisbon, with many festivals and events.
How Long to Stay in Lisbon
- Weekend Break: A weekend break in Lisbon is a great way to explore the city’s highlights.
- 4-5 Days: 4-5 days is the perfect amount of time to explore Lisbon’s main attractions and get a feel for the city.
- 1 Week: 1 week in Lisbon is enough time to explore the city in depth and take day trips to nearby towns and beaches.
- 2 Weeks: 2 weeks in Lisbon is enough time to explore the city and its surrounding areas, including Sintra, Cascais, and the Algarve region.
- 1 Month: 1 month in Lisbon is enough time to immerse yourself in the city’s culture and explore its hidden gems.
Lisbon Family Itinerary: 5 Days of Fun and Exploration
Planning your itinerary for a Lisbon family holiday doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s a suggested 5-day itinerary packed with exciting activities and cultural experiences:
Day 1:
- Morning: Check into your hotel and leave your luggage.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Time Out Market Lisbon, exploring the diverse food options.
- Afternoon: Take a ride on the iconic yellow tram, hopping off at Praça do Comércio for stunning river views.
- Evening: Enjoy a puppet show at Dona Rosa, experiencing traditional Portuguese culture.
Day 2:
- Morning: Explore São Jorge Castle, learning about Lisbon’s history and enjoying panoramic city views.
- Afternoon: Visit Oceanário de Lisboa, embarking on an underwater adventure and discovering diverse marine life.
- Evening: Relax in Parque Eduardo VII, enjoying its gardens, playgrounds, and breathtaking cityscapes.
Day 3:
- Morning: Explore Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, marveling at the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and learning about Portugal’s maritime past.
- Afternoon: Take a boat trip on the Tagus River, offering stunning views of the city skyline and iconic landmarks.
- Evening: Savor a delicious dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant in Alfama, experiencing the historic district’s charm.
Day 4:
- Morning: Visit Lisbon Zoo, encountering a variety of animals and participating in educational activities.
- Afternoon: Spend some time relaxing on a beach near Lisbon, such as Carcavelos or Cascais, enjoying swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
- Evening: Attend a lively fado performance, experiencing Portugal’s traditional melancholic music.
Day 5:
- Morning: Explore the Gulbenkian Museum, discovering its extensive art collection and engaging exhibits.
- Afternoon: Do some souvenir shopping in Chiado, browsing through charming shops and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, offering panoramic city views and a memorable finale to your Lisbon adventure.
Getting Around Lisbon
Lisbon offers a convenient and affordable public transportation system, including:
- Metro: A fast and efficient way to travel around the city, with several lines connecting major attractions.
- Buses: An extensive network of buses covering various areas, offering a slower but more scenic option.
- Trams: The iconic yellow trams are a fun and unique way to experience Lisbon, although be prepared for potential crowds.
- Taxis: readily available throughout the city, offering a convenient option for short distances or late-night travel.
Additional Tips:
- Purchase a Lisboa Card for discounted entry to many attractions and free public transportation use.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes as Lisbon is a walkable city.
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your communication with locals.
- Don’t forget to try the city’s famous pastel de nata, a delicious custard tart.
By following this itinerary and these tips, you can create your unforgettable Lisbon family holidays filled with memories that will last a lifetime. Remember, this is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your family’s interests and preferences.
