The Portuguese capital, Lisbon, is an excellent destination with children! And even though it’s a hilly city, there are plenty of things to do for families. Lisbon is a popular destination all year round, with great temperatures. From autumn till spring it’s colder, and in summer the city is often around 30 °C degrees. You can visit the beaches to stay cool, or enjoy fun museums for children when the weather is bad. Let’s take a look at 5 things to do in Lisbon with kids!
Take the historic tram
What is the best way to tackle the Lisbon hills? By tram, of course! Tram 28 is the most famous route and, therefore, also the busiest. To avoid waiting hours to embark, join the red Historic Hills Tram Tour instead. This way you’ll be sure of a seat to enjoy the stunning scenery around you. Tickets are valid for 24 hours, and you can embark and disembark whenever you want.
Do you prefer public transport trams? Tram lines 12, 18, and 15 are also often run by historic trams. Or take the funicular in the city and enjoy the fun ride upwards! You can purchase a Viva Viagem card, which costs only € 0.50 to save money. You can top the card up with credit, so you can travel around Lisbon at a reduced rate.
If you prefer an organised tour through the city. A tuk-tuk tour is another great option. Your private driver will show you all the highlights in a few hours! No walking is involved, and there is plenty of time to take pictures along the way. On top, you’ll get to know Lisbon like a local, as you’ll discover all the city’s stories.
The Aquarium Oceanário de Lisboa
One of the best sites in Lisbon for kids is Oceanário de Lisboa! The aquarium is perfect on a rainy day as well, as the fish tanks are all indoors. The main takeaway holds a whopping 5 million litres of water, and more than 8,000 sea animals live at the Oceanário.
You’ll spot sharks, rays, and many other colourful creatures. And remember to visit the otters Kasi and Odi! They often steal the show. Or discover the waddling penguins that are clumsy on land but oh so fast underwater. You can sit here for hours looking at the animals!
São Jorge Castle
On top of the Alfama hill you can overlook the entire city of Lisbon. Here you’ll find São Jorge Castle. Instead of climbing up the hill, you can take a taxi or Bus 737. Besides the beautiful views from São Jorge, you’ll also find many colourful peacocks! They like to show their faces, especially at the end of the day.
Come to the castle early or later in the day to avoid the crowds, and walk along the castle walls for the best views. After your visit, you can check out the surrounding streets on top of the hill, as well as Alfama itself. It’s the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon with plenty of sights! Examples are Miradouro de Santa Luzia and the cathedral.
The 3D Fun Art Museum Lisboa
This is another one for a rainy day or just to have some fun! The 3D Fun Art Museum Lisboa is the best spot to take funny pictures! The optical illusions in the museum create the craziest background! One moment it looks like you’re hanging off the ceiling and the next you’ll be way shorter than your kids.
Benfica Stadium
If your kids like football there is no better place than the Benfica Stadium. The Estádio da Luz Tour is fantastic if you want to have a look backstage! Walk through the players’ tunnels and take a look in the dugouts. The VIP access even brings you to the dressing rooms. You’ll discover stories about the club and the players and, if you’re lucky, Benfica might even play a game during your stay in Lisbon!
About the author
This post is a guest post written by Marga, a travel writer and family photographer who was a flight attendant and has travelled extensively for many years. After settling in Portugal, she started the Discover Portugal blog with insightful and engaging travel stories. For more info check out her insta.