Lisbon is an ideal stop for families. After spending over a week in the Algarve (check out our Algarve Family Travel Guide), we wrapped up our trip with a city break in Portugal’s capital. Lisbon caters to travelers of all ages—whether you’re zipping up cobbled hills in an electric tuk-tuk, marveling at the marine life at the world-class Lisbon Aquarium, admiring 400-year-old gilded royal carriages at the National Coach Museum, taking in the grand architecture of the Jerónimos Monastery, or escaping for a relaxing beach day along the coast. Our culinary itinerary was just as varied, spanning modern Portuguese dining and Michelin-caliber Japanese cuisine to kid-approved quick-service burgers. Traveling with a larger group, we opted for a spacious apartment with a pool just outside the busy city center—giving the kids room to play and unwind after long days of sightseeing.
Below are our top family-friendly recommendations. You can also explore our Interactive Google Map.
Lisbon Family Guide Overview
Family Friendly Things to Do
Family Friendly Dinning
Family Friendly Stay
Family Friendly Things to Do in Lisbon
Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Aquarium)
Widely ranked among the world’s best aquariums, the Oceanário de Lisboa in Parque das Nações was our absolute favorite family stop in Portugal.
The highlight is the massive, 5-million-liter central tank spanning two levels, where kids can marvel at white tip reef sharks, manta rays, and a giant ocean sunfish. Surrounding galleries feature diverse ocean habitats—don’t miss the playful sea otters, penguins, and cuttlefish. It’s fully air-conditioned, stroller-friendly, and an ideal way to escape the midday heat.
- Recommended Time: 2–3 hours
- Location: Parque das Nações (accessible via Oriente Station or Uber)
- Top Tip: Book tickets online in advance for a discount, or ask your hotel concierge if they offer partner deals.
For our full review, including stroller accessibility tips, ticket discounts, dining advice, and must-see exhibits, check out our Complete Family Guide to Visiting the Lisbon Aquarium with Kids.
Praia do Rei (Costa da Caparica Beach Day)
Located just a 30-minute drive from central Lisbon, Praia do Rei is a fantastic, hassle-free beach escape along the sunny Costa da Caparica coastline.
The highlight for families is the combination of soft white sand, calm waves for little swimmers, and direct boardwalk access that makes hauling strollers and beach gear easier. For lunch or lounging, settle in at Princesa Beach Club—they offer shaded tables on the sand, sunbed rentals, high chairs, and simple kid favorites like plain pasta alongside delicious shrimp tacos for parents. Kids will also love watching the colorful kite surfers catch the breeze in the nearby wind-sports zone.
- Recommended Time: Half-day to full-day trip
- Location: Costa da Caparica (accessible via a 30-minute drive or rideshare from Lisbon)
- Top Tip: Reserve your shaded lunch table or sunbeds online in advance on sunny summer weekends, and arrive before midday to grab a spot in the adjacent paid lot (Estacionamento Praia do Rei).
For our full review, including parking details, restaurant booking advice, and safety amenities, check out our Complete Family Guide to Visiting Praia do Rei with Kids.
Museu Nacional dos Coches (National Coach Museum)
Located in historic Belém, the National Coach Museum houses one of the world’s finest collections of royal carriages and was a surprise highlight of our family trip to Lisbon.
Arranged chronologically, the vast halls showcase centuries of transportation from the Portuguese Royal Household. Kids will love the miniature pony-drawn coaches, the eerie windowless prison carriage, an intricate princess carriage with a built-in game table, and Portugal’s first motorized cars. The modern building is fully air-conditioned, rarely crowded, completely stroller-friendly with elevators, and equipped with baby changing facilities.
- Recommended Time: ~2 hours
- Location: Belém (easily reached by tram, train, or rideshare)
- Top Tip: The museum is closed on Mondays. Look into discounted combo tickets that bundle admission with the nearby Jerónimos Monastery.
Jerónimos Monastery
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal’s architectural wonders, the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém was one of our favorite historic stops in Lisbon.
The highlight is the two-story Manueline cloister, where kids can search for intricate stone carvings of anchor ropes, sea flora, and mythical sea monsters from the Age of Discovery. Right next door, the Church of Santa Maria de Belém is free to enter and houses the ornate tombs of explorer Vasco da Gama and poet Luís de Camões. Note that the two floors are connected by stairs.
- Recommended Time: 1–2 hours
- Location: Belém (accessible via tram 15E, train, or Uber)
- Top Tip: Book an afternoon slot after 3:00 PM to skip the morning tour buses, and wait in the shady park across the street to avoid the unshaded entry line.
For our full review, including ticket hacks, AI audio guide tips, nearby custard tart spots, and a Belém itinerary, check out our Complete Family Guide to Visiting Jerónimos Monastery with Kids.
Tuk Tuk Ride
Taking a Lisbon tuk tuk tour is consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in the city—especially if you want to avoid hiking up Lisbon’s notoriously steep hills with tired kids in tow. On our recent family trip, we booked a top-rated “Private Tuk Tuk Tour with Local Guide” through GetYourGuide. Because we were a large group of seven, we had to split into two separate vehicles. While the kids had a blast zipping through the historic streets, our overall experience was mixed.
What to Expect on a Family Tuk Tuk Tour
- Driver quality varies: Even with highly rated private tours, your experience heavily depends on who is driving. Both of our guides were very friendly, but only one actually shared history and local commentary about Lisbon. The group in the second vehicle simply got a ride between spots. If historical context matters to you, make sure to request a history-focused guide when booking.
- Scenic viewpoint stops: Our route included stops at several famous Lisbon viewpoints (miradouros). These gave the kids a welcome break to stretch their legs and gave us time for photos, though keep in mind that popular lookouts get quite crowded during peak hours.
- 4-wheel vs. 3-wheel models: If you have the choice, opt for a 4-wheel electric tuk tuk. Lisbon’s cobblestones are famously uneven, and the 4-wheel models offer a significantly smoother, less bumpy ride.
- Safety and age limits: Seatbelts were provided in both vehicles. Always check the tour provider’s age policy before booking—our tour required children to be at least 5 years old.
Our Honest Take
Riding in a tuk tuk was an absolute highlight for the kids and saved our legs from a full day of climbing hills. However, the inconsistency between guides left us with an average overall impression. If you add this to your Lisbon family itinerary, prioritize tour operators with specific reviews mentioning engaging, family-friendly storytelling so you get the most value for your money.
Family Friendly Dinning
Izakaya
If you are searching for the best Japanese restaurants in Lisbon, dining at Izakaya Lisboa in the trendy Príncipe Real neighborhood was one of our family’s favorite culinary highlights in Portugal. Recognized by the MICHELIN Guide, this lively Japanese tavern features moody neon lighting and an open kitchen where we enjoyed watching the chefs at work. The menu centers on made-to-order sharing plates that arrive as soon as they are ready. The staff was incredibly welcoming, guiding us through the options to ensure every dish was a hit.
While there is no dedicated kids’ menu, our children loved the steamed rice and the crispy shrimp tempura—which was a huge favorite with the whole group. The team even brought out beginner-friendly chopstick helpers, keeping the kids entertained. Keep in mind that seating is limited to high-top tables, and because it is a popular Lisbon dining spot, you will want to book reservations well in advance (or visit their second location in Cascais). Before we headed out, the staff snapped our Polaroid to pin up on their photo-covered wall, making for a fun finale to a memorable family night out.
Santa Joana Restaurant
If you are looking for exceptional Portuguese dining in Lisbon, Santa Joana Restaurant inside the Hotel Locke de Santa Joana was easily one of our favorite meals of the trip. Set inside a beautifully restored 17th-century convent, the space pairs soaring historic ceilings with stylish, modern decor. The restaurant sources local ingredients to make their exceptional cuisine. We let the staff guide our order, which turned out to be the best decision—the fresh catch of the day, dry-aged ribeye, and grilled Alentejo pork were all incredible. Make sure to save room for dessert: the chocolate mousse tastes just like a light, warm lava cake served alongside cold ice cream.
Santa Joana is very welcoming to families, even if it leans slightly more upscale than a casual eatery. While there is no formal children’s menu, our kids loved the buttermilk fried chicken starter and crispy fries. The staff kept the little ones happy by bringing out crayons and coloring sheets right away, and high chairs are readily available. Because it has quickly become a top spot for Lisbon dining, be sure to book your table online well in advance.
Taberna Sal Grosso
Nestled in one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, Taberna Sal Grosso is a fantastic spot for families wanting an authentic taste of Alfama. This cozy, modern Portuguese tavern serves incredible petiscos (traditional small plates) designed for sharing. The vibe is casual and welcoming, with a warm team and a daily menu handwritten on a chalkboard in both Portuguese and English. We let our waiter guide our order, and we were so glad we did—the roasted cheese with honey, pepper chicken, beef tartare, grilled prawns, and passion fruit sangria were all fantastic.
The staff made our family feel right at home, though it doesn’t offer the typical family-friendly amenities found in larger restaurants. There isn’t a dedicated kids’ menu, and while my children enjoyed sampling the small plates with us, I recommend packing a few familiar snacks if you have picky eaters. Space is also extremely limited with only 27 seats, so be sure to book your reservation online well in advance.
Time Out Market
If you’re exploring the Cais do Sodré neighborhood, grabbing lunch at Time Out Market Lisbon is a fantastic, family-friendly stop. Housed in a historic covered hall, this bustling Lisbon food market features over 20 curated food stalls serving everything from regional Portuguese classics to sushi, tacos, and wood-fired pizza. We loved the variety since it was easy to find something the kids enjoyed while we sampled authentic local cuisine. The kids had a classic margherita pizza, and we finished off our meal with warm pastéis de nata from Manteigaria. Ordering is simple: each vendor hands you a buzzer so you can find a spot at the communal seating (which is mostly high-top tables) while you wait. If you prefer full sit-down service, you’ll also find several traditional restaurants along the perimeter.
Navigating the market with kids is straightforward, though it does get busy. The entire hall has flat, step-free flooring that makes it very stroller-friendly, and a helpful security guard unlocked the dedicated family restroom for us, which includes a changing table and a child-sized toilet. Beyond the main food court, our kids loved wandering through the traditional farmers market next door to check out the fresh flowers, colorful fruit stands, and sprawling fish displays. While it gets crowded during peak lunch hours, it is the perfect place to refuel after a morning of sightseeing—and you will find plenty of tuk-tuk drivers waiting right outside to take you to your next stop.
Ruoto – Ristorante Italiano
Ruoto – Ristorante Italiano is a charming, kid-friendly spot tucked away in a quiet, shaded alley in Lisbon’s historic Belém district. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, it provides a peaceful retreat from the sightseeing crowds. We managed to snag an outdoor table just before the peak lunch rush, but reserving ahead is definitely wise. While the restaurant does not offer a separate children’s menu, the pizzas and fresh pastas are naturally kid-approved. Our children happily shared a Margherita pizza and plain pasta with Parmesan cheese—just be sure to ask them to hold the basil drizzle on the pizza if you have picky eaters. High chairs are readily available for toddlers, though the restroom lacks a baby changing table.
Our entire family left happy and refreshed after a delicious, relaxing lunch in the shade. Its location makes it one of the most convenient places to eat in Belém with kids, situated within a 10-minute walk of major attractions like the National Coach Museum and Jerónimos Monastery. It is also just steps away from world-class dessert spots, whether you are craving warm Portuguese custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém or traditional artisan gelato at Santini.
Santini Gelados Artesanais
If you’re hunting for delicious gelato in Lisbon, you can’t miss Santini Gelados Artesanais. Serving handcrafted Portuguese ice cream since 1949, this family-run shop still uses its original, all-natural recipe free from artificial preservatives and additives. During our family trip, we stopped by the Belém shop, which sits right between the famous Jerónimos Monastery and the National Coach Museum. You can order straight from the sidewalk stall or step inside, and the shaded outdoor patio made the perfect stop to escape the afternoon heat.
Our family tried a mix of classic flavors, and everyone walked away happy. A practical tip for parents visiting Lisbon with kids: the shop has clean restrooms on-site, just be sure to ask the friendly staff at the counter for the door code before you sit down.
Patty Smash Burger
If you are looking for easy, family-friendly restaurants in Lisbon, Patty Smash Burger (R. António Alçada Baptista 7a) is a fantastic spot for a casual dinner. Located just steps from our hotel, Upon Lisbon Prime Residences, and right next to the Estádio da Luz stadium, it was the perfect low-stress meal after a full day of sightseeing with kids. Ordering was quick at the self-service touchscreen kiosks, food was delivered directly to our outdoor table, and the little play corner with coloring supplies kept the kids entertained.
The food hit the spot when we needed something fast and tasty. The smash burgers were juicy and flavorful, and both the regular and sweet potato fries arrived hot and crispy. One quick tip for parents: we ordered the chicken nuggets for our kids, but they skipped them because the coating was heavily seasoned with paprika. If you have picky eaters, stick to the classic kids’ burger menu. It is an easy, affordable, and practical place to eat in Lisbon for traveling families.
Where to Stay
UPON Lisbon Prime Residences
A comfortable and practical aparthotel base near Estádio da Luz, UPON Lisbon Prime Residences was a great family-friendly stay in Lisbon.
The highlight is the year-round heated rooftop pool with a retractable glass roof, where kids can splash around after a long day of sightseeing while parents relax with drinks from the adjacent bar. The two-bedroom suites comfortably accommodate larger groups, complete with two full bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens with dishwashers, and in-unit washer/dryers that make traveling with kids a breeze. Right outside, you’ll find a grocery store for quick breakfasts and a casual burger spot for easy family meals.
Best For: Families and multi-generational groups needing self-catering space and parking
Location: São Domingos de Benfica (10 minutes from the airport; 15–20 minutes by Uber to downtown hubs)
Top Tip: Sign up for the hotel’s free Privilege Card for arrival welcome drinks and room discounts, and use Uber to skip navigating Lisbon’s steep hills and stairs with strollers.
For our full review, including room layouts, dining options, parking details, and booking tips, check out our Where to Stay in Lisbon with Kids: UPON Lisbon Hotel Review.
