Things to do with kids in Lisbon: Portugal is one of our favourite countries, it’s just full of friendly people, good food and a wonderful climate. Its capital city, Lisbon exudes charm and is a wonderful place to visit. We’ve visited the city a number of times and just love it, there’s so much variety of things to do. When looking for what to do in Lisbon with kids we try to find a good mix of culture and fun. If you’re with kids Lisbon is packed with attractions they’ll love (check out our “Rainy day activities” labelled below too). There’s so much in Lisbon for kids from museums to delicious treats. If you’re visiting Lisbon kids will be sure to have a great time. Kids in Lisbon will be very happy with all of these activities, ensuring you have a great family city break. All of our list of what to do in Lisbon with kids has been thoroughly researched to give you the best time. Do let us know how your Lisbon family trip goes, we’d love to hear from you.
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Go under the sea at Oceanário de Lisboa, Lisbon’s Aquarium
Lisbon’s aquarium is slightly out of the main town, in the Parque das Nações. This is a modern development in East Lisbon easily reached by underground or bus services. (Head for the Oriente Station – it’s a pleasant ten minute walk from there).
When looking for what to do with kids in Lisbon it comes high up our list.
The aquarium is the biggest of its kind in Europe with over 450 different species. Over a hundred are in the huge central tank which houses sharks, rays and barracudas.
It’s a wonderful place to visit with children, and it’s easy to spend happy several hours exploring the wonders of the deep. The Oceanário is also one of the only aquariums to be home to a Sun Fish.
Rainy day activity
Book your skip-the-line tickets here.
Get a breath of fresh air at the Jardim da Estrela – things to do in Lisbon with kids
In the middle of Lisbon the Jardim da Estrela is the ideal spot to run around and to burn off some energy. It’s one of the perfect kids activities Lisbon has to offer.
In the summer it’s particularly good as it is really shady under all the trees.
Adults will welcome the ability to grab a coffee in the cafes next to the pond and kids will love to feed the ducks here.
There’s also a great playground making it the perfect space to get some calm and cool off from the heat of the city.
Make time for pastel de nata.
Any list of Lisbon things to do with kids wouldn’t be complete without eating the delicious Portuguese treats pastel de nata.
We took a trip out to the Belem district of the city for the most famous of these but they are good all across the city.
In fact why not make a game of it to try a few (they’re really cheap) and find your favourites. They’re a great way to keep little legs walking as you look out for the next bakery on walks between sights.
Get onto the water with Hippotrip
Finding a way to sight-see as much as possible is always our goal from any city trip and Hippotrip have made a way to make that seriously fun.
Taking to the water in this amphibian vehicle has to be one of the best things to do in Lisbon with kids.
This is a 90 minute experience which is lots of fun as well as learning a thing or two about this beautiful city.
You’ll love it almost as much as the kids.
Find out more here.
Feel the history at Castelo de São Jorge
We adore this castle which is easy to get to within the city.
Try to book your tickets in advance (see the link below) as the queues can be fierce but inside the space is large enough to feel tranquil.
There are peacocks roaming and you can climb turrets and clamber over moats. The perfect way to burn off some energy.
There’s a great cafe inside the walls and everyone will love the opportunity to find out more about the history of Lisbon through this impressive castle’s remains.
Find out more here and book your skip-the-line tickets here.
Take a trip on a tram – best things to do in Lisbon with kids
Lisbon’s trams are an iconic part of the city’s make up and cover a huge amount of the city’s area.
These historic vehicles have been in operation in Lisbon since 1873 and kids will love trundling up the city’s steep hills and travelling around by tram.
Take tram number 28 which passes through the tourist districts of Graca, Alfama, Baixa and Estrela.
This is like taking a tour in itself without wearing out little legs.
Rainy day activity
Take a river cruise – best things to do in Lisbon with kids
The river Tagus is absolutely beautiful and runs right through the middle of the city.
Taking a river cruise is a wonderful way to see some of the sights, including the Monument of Discoveries and sailing underneath the majestic 25 de Abril Bridge.
If you’re looking for things to do with kids Lisbon has a number of things to do but this has to be one of the most romantic ways to see the city as a family.
Find out about sailing on the river Tagus here.
Get interactive at the Pavilhao do Conhecimento
At the Parque das Nações and close to the city’s aquarium is Pavilhao do Conhecimento or the Pavilion of Knowledge.
There are lots of fun interactive activities for kids and places for them to get hands on looking at subjects such as gravity and constructing electric circuits.
Rainy day activity
Find out more here.
Spend some time at the beach
Lisbon has some wonderful beaches that are accessible from the city.
Praia de Carcavelos is a 30 minute trip outside of the city on the train. You can also get the train to Praia da Conceição which is 45 minutes away and one of the best beaches for families.
Costa da Caparica is 40 minutes away on the bus.
Taking time to visit the beach is a fantastic way to get out of the urban centre.
Have fun at the Electricity Museum
The Museu da Electricidade or Electricty Museum may not sound like much of a fun day out but there’s plenty to keep little ones enthralled.
The combination of art and science and plenty of interactive displays will make this a surprising hit for all ages of the family.
Rainy day activity
Get your skip-the-line tickets here.
The Story Centre – one of the best things to do in Lisbon with kids
The Story Centre is right in the middle of Lisbon. It is a wonderful chance to find out about the history of the city in an engaging way.
Learn about the great earthquake that almost destroyed the whole of Lisbon and how the city rebuilt life here.
There’s a chance to dress up and get hands on and this is another of those places that all the family will enjoy.
Rainy day activity
Find out more here.
Visit Belem Tower – one of the best things to do in Lisbon with kids
Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. Standing proudly along the Tagus River.
Built in the 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site once served as a fortress and a gateway for Portuguese explorers.
Visitors can climb its narrow staircases to enjoy breathtaking views from the top.
The tower features intricate Manueline architecture, including ornate stone carvings and turrets.
Nearby, you can explore other attractions like the Jerónimos Monastery and Pastéis de Belém, famous for its custard tarts (see above).
A visit to Belém Tower offers a glimpse into Portugal’s rich maritime history and stunning architecture.
Find out more here.
Gulbenkian Garden
Gulbenkian Garden is a beautiful, tranquil oasis in Lisbon, perfect for visiting with kids.
Located near the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the park features lush greenery, ponds with ducks and turtles, and plenty of open space for children to run and play.
Shaded pathways make it ideal for strolls, while benches offer spots to relax.
Kids will love spotting fish in the water and exploring the hidden corners of the garden.
It’s also a great place for picnics.
With a mix of nature and culture, Gulbenkian Garden provides a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, making it a family-friendly destination.
Have some fun at Kidzania
KidZania Lisbon is an exciting, interactive indoor city where kids can role-play different professions in a fun and educational way.
Designed for children aged 3 to 12, this miniature city allows them to try out real-world jobs like doctors, firefighters, chefs, pilots, and more.
Each activity teaches responsibility, teamwork, and financial literacy as kids earn “KidZos” (the local currency) for their work.
Located in Amadora, just outside Lisbon, KidZania offers a safe and immersive environment for learning through play. With realistic settings and engaging experiences, it’s a fantastic place for kids to explore their interests while having an unforgettable time.
We have visited Kidania London and Kidzania Dubai and my children love it.
Find out more here.
See the art at National Museum of Ancient Art (Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga) – one of the best things to do in Lisbon with kids
Lisbon’s National Museum of Ancient Art (Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga) is a great place to introduce kids to Portugal’s rich artistic heritage.
It houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
While traditional art museums may seem less exciting for children, this one offers family-friendly activities, workshops, and storytelling sessions to engage young visitors.
Kids can admire intricate gold treasures, maritime-themed artworks, and fascinating historical artifacts.
The museum’s beautiful garden, overlooking the Tagus River, is perfect for a relaxing break. It’s a cultural and educational adventure for all ages.
Find out more here.
Enjoy Monsanto Forest Park – Lisbon kids
Monsanto Forest Park is Lisbon’s largest green space, perfect for a fun-filled family adventure.
Spanning over 1,000 hectares, it offers endless opportunities for kids to explore nature, play, and enjoy outdoor activities.
The park features playgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, and even a treetop adventure course.
Children can spot birds, rabbits, and other wildlife while learning about local plants.
There are also scenic viewpoints offering breathtaking views of Lisbon.
Whether biking, climbing, or simply running around in the fresh air, Monsanto Forest Park provides a great escape from the city, making it a fantastic destination for kids to enjoy nature.
Get curious at Lisbon Planetarium (Planetário Calouste Gulbenkian)
The Lisbon Planetarium (Planetário Calouste Gulbenkian) is a fantastic place for kids to explore the wonders of the universe.
Located near the Maritime Museum in Belém, it offers immersive astronomy shows that transport visitors through space, showcasing stars, planets, and galaxies.
The dome-shaped theatre creates a magical experience, making learning about the cosmos exciting for children.
Interactive exhibits and educational programmes teach young explorers about astronauts, constellations, and space travel.
With engaging visuals and fascinating storytelling, the planetarium provides an unforgettable journey through the stars, making it a must-visit attraction for families with curious, space-loving kids in Lisbon.
Find out more here.
Enjoy Estufa Fria – perfect for kids in Lisbon
Estufa Fria is a stunning greenhouse located in Eduardo VII Park, Lisbon. Offering a tropical escape for visitors of all ages.
It features a variety of plant species from around the world, including lush tropical, temperate, and desert plants.
The three distinct areas of the greenhouse — temperate, tropical, and arid — showcase diverse ecosystems, with beautiful flowers, towering palms, and fascinating cacti.
Kids will love exploring the lush surroundings and spotting exotic plants, while parents can relax in the peaceful environment.
With waterfalls and ponds scattered throughout, Estufa Fria is a serene and educational place for families to connect with nature in the heart of Lisbon.
Find out more here.
Enjoy MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology)
MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) in Lisbon is an exciting place for kids to explore art, science, and design in interactive ways.
The museum’s futuristic architecture, located along the Tagus River, is a sight to behold. Inside, children can engage with hands-on exhibits that blend art, technology, and architecture, sparking their creativity and curiosity.
MAAT frequently hosts family-friendly workshops and exhibits that invite young minds to experiment and learn.
The museum’s mix of modern art and technological innovations makes it an engaging experience for kids to understand the connection between art and the ever-evolving world of technology.
Find out more here.
Eat up a storm at Time Out Market Lisbon
Time Out Market Lisbon is a vibrant, family-friendly food market that offers something for everyone, making it a great spot for kids.
Located in the Cais do Sodré district, it brings together a variety of food stalls serving delicious Portuguese dishes, international cuisines, and sweet treats.
Kids will enjoy trying different foods in a lively, relaxed environment while watching chefs prepare meals.
The market often hosts live music and entertainment, adding to the fun atmosphere.
With its spacious seating areas and casual vibe, Time Out Market is the perfect place for families to enjoy a meal and explore Lisbon’s food scene together.
Lisbon Puppet Museum (Museu da Marioneta) – one of the best things to do in Lisbon with kids
The Lisbon Puppet Museum (Museu da Marioneta) is a magical place for kids to explore the world of puppetry and theatre.
Located in the heart of the city, this unique museum showcases a vast collection of puppets from around the world. Including traditional Portuguese marionettes, hand puppets, and shadow puppets.
Children can learn about the history and art of puppetry through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.
The museum also hosts workshops where kids can try making their own puppets.
Find out more here.
Enjoy the calm of Tapada das Necessidades
Tapada das Necessidades is a hidden gem in Lisbon, offering a peaceful escape for families.
This expansive park is perfect for kids to run around and explore, with plenty of open green spaces, shaded areas, and beautiful ponds.
Children will enjoy spotting the park’s resident peacocks, ducks, and other wildlife.
The park’s playgrounds and large open spaces make it an ideal spot for picnics or a leisurely day out.
With its calm atmosphere and scenic beauty, Tapada das Necessidades is a great place for kids to connect with nature while enjoying outdoor activities in the heart of Lisbon.
Top tips for visiting the city
Consider getting a Lisbon City card which will give you free entry to museums and attractions across the city as well as transportation around it.
Think about taking the Hop on Hop off bus – not only is this a great way to see the city and get some historical insight, it’s also the perfect way to get around the city between the sites you want to visit. Pick up your Hop on Hop Off bus tickets here.
There is a zoo in Lisbon but we don’t recommend it as they have dolphin shows there. Read here to see why dolphin shows should be banned.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our suggestions of the best things to see and do in Lisbon with kids. It’s one of our favourite cities.
Read more of our features such as one on our road trip through Spain and Portugal with kids which includes a stop off in Lisbon.
