No matter if you’re visiting for a weekend or month, there’s plenty to explore in Lisboa, Portugal, with your family. Here are some top picks for activities perfect for kids! One of the coolest activities to do in Lisboa is taking a ride on an old double-decker bus. Not only will you discover some interesting aspects of the city, but you’ll also get to take in its vibrant art scene!
Where to go
Lisbon is an amazing city to discover and offers a multitude of activities. Whether you’re staying for just a few days or longer, there’s plenty to see and do – the key is planning your itinerary in advance so that you make the most of your time! The city is known for its exciting nightlife, and you may come across street performers, music stalls or other events at any time of day. For an authentic local experience, book a meal or drinks at one of many restaurants open late and engage with its vibrant culture.
One of the best places to experience Portuguese culture is the historic Baixa district. Here, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and shops offering traditional cuisine as well as unique souvenirs. Plus, this area makes for a great exploration hub by foot or using public transportation (the underground stops here).
Another must-see attraction is Se de Lisboa Cathedral, which deserves to be visited even if you aren’t religious. The interior is decorated with gorgeous tilework and oil paintings, making it an enchanting spot to sit back and take in the architecture.
Finally, don’t miss the LX Factory, an outdoor space filled with artsy stores and restaurants. Decorated in street art, it’s the perfect spot for a drink or lunch during your Lisbon exploration.
If you’re a fan of graffiti art, be sure to visit some of the works featured at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Particularly, the Raposa de Bordalo II is an impressive sculpture made out of paint and other materials which creates an almost 3-D effect.
There are also some lesser-known attractions in this region that provide some fun activities. One example is Carmo Archaeological Museum, an excellent opportunity to learn about Portugal’s capital’s history.
The Palacio dos Marqueses da Fronteira, a 1640 palace worth visiting, is another impressive sight. The interior boasts both classic and modern tilework while the garden boasts beautiful fountains and statues. Spend a few hours here, but for something more active, why not take a hike up Sao Jorge Castle or the National Pantheon? Not only will you be rewarded with stunning views over the city but also plenty of exercise!
What to see
Lisboa is an enchanting city with plenty to explore. Whether you’re interested in learning about its fascinating history, shopping in stylish boutiques or enjoying delicious meals – Lisboa truly has something for everyone. For a more authentic Portuguese experience, the Alfama quarter is the place to visit. Here you’ll find cobbled streets, quaint cafes and picturesque squares – making for an authentic and relaxing stay in Portugal’s capital. This historic area of Lisbon is a great destination to sample traditional Portuguese dishes and listen to fado – the popular music style here. There are plenty of bars and restaurants here, making it easy to find somewhere that suits your palate!
Rossio Square is an exciting destination to people watch and you won’t want to miss the impressive baroque fountains that line this square. Plus, there are countless adorable cafes that draw both tourists and locals alike to this charming space.
The Basilica da Estrela is a must-see in Lisbon and one of the most stunning churches you’ll ever come across! Constructed in 1790, this church features twin bell towers and an impressive grand dome. If you’re lucky enough, you might get to visit its rooftop terrace for stunning views over Lisbon below!
For an active way to explore Lisbon, why not take a walk along the picturesque Tagus River. Here you’ll be able to admire all of its historic bridges that cross over it as well as stunning views of Lisbon from above. Another fun and unique activity is taking a ride on the cable car, giving you an amazing view of the city from above. You can do this with your Lisbon Card but be sure to purchase your ticket in advance so as not to wait in line too long.
If you’re a fan of animals, don’t miss visiting the Lisbon Zoo! Here, you can see many iconic species native to Portugal as well as discover some new ones!
Finally, for art and culture buffs alike, don’t miss the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga. Here you’ll find an impressive collection of works of art from around the globe, including paintings and sculptures. It’s worth remembering that this museum is a bit of a drive from the city centre, so make sure you factor that into your itinerary. You can catch the metro at Praca do Comercio or take a bus which will drop you off right outside.
Miradouros de Acor are a must-see during your trip to Lisbon and they’re free to access. While it may take some effort to climb to the top, be rewarded by breathtaking views of the city below!
Where to eat
If you’re a foodie in Lisbon, Portugal has plenty of places to satisfy your desires. From an indoor market to trendy bars that serve locally sourced and foraged ingredients, there’s something for everyone here. Discover Lisbon’s delectable cuisine by dining at a tasca, or small restaurant that specializes in traditional Portuguese dishes. There are plenty of tascas to choose from in Lisbon; try everything from the classic francesinha (a sandwich made with salami, veal, sausage, chourico and melted cheese) to the prego (steak sandwich served with fries).
Tascas also offers modern interpretations of classic dishes like bacalhau a bras and cabeca de porco e feijao branco, or pig’s head with beans. While these dishes may not be for the timid, they’re definitely worth trying if you can! Another popular dish is cozido, a meat-heavy stew that comes in various varieties. This hearty winter meal is typically served with cabbage, white beans and rice. Most bars offer it as a plate of the day, and it’s certainly worth trying while in town. While not as popular as Ginjinha in Obidos and Alcobaca, this delicious option should definitely be tried at least once!
At Quiosque Principe Real, one of our favorite kiosks in Lisbon, you’ll find coffee and snacks such as Lisbon custard tarts. It’s the perfect spot for a quick bite and some relaxation afterwards!
A bica, or shot of espresso, is a must-try in Lisbon – so stop by a coffee shop to get one. For something sweet to go along with it, order some pasteis de nata (traditional pastries). For the finest seafood in Lisbon, head to Time Out Market – an indoor market featuring 24 restaurants and eight bars. Here, you can find everything from mussels in garlic sauce to grilled octopus on mashed potatoes.
If you’re looking to save money on meals while in Lisbon, supermarkets are a great place to check out. Many of them in touristy areas offer budget-friendly options so that you can stock up on essential items for the rest of your trip. Lisboa offers an array of delicious food, whether you’re in search of simple bites or an all-you-can-eat buffet. There are some fantastic markets scattered across the city; however, those which are less touristy tend to be the best options.
Campo de Ourique neighborhood in Lisbon’s west end is renowned for being a foodie haven. Just a tram ride away, this area offers opportunities to pick up local produce or try something new when it comes to Portuguese cuisine at its finest. At the Mercado de Campo de Ourique you’ll find various stalls selling fresh fish and meat as well as several restaurants serving small portions of delicious Portuguese fare.