Lisbon with Kids: Insider Tips for a Relaxed City Trip

From the Airport to the City Center

After landing at the international airport "Humberto Delgado," you have several options to reach the city center, which is only about 7 kilometers away. Depending on your airline, you will arrive at Terminal 1 or 2. From Terminal 2, you will be taken by bus to Terminal 1, from where all passengers exit the airport.

By Train

Right outside the exit of Terminal 1 is the entrance to the subway. With a ticket price of 1.80 Euros (as of June 2024), it is the most affordable way to get to the city center. The subway is particularly suitable for accommodations in the neighborhoods of Baixa, Chiado, and around Saldanha and Avenida da Liberdade. Other popular areas like Alfama or Belém are not connected to the subway network and can only be reached by tram, taxi, or bus. Be aware that many stops do not have elevators.

Another advantage of the subway is the easy payment: Recently, you can pay for tickets contactlessly with your credit card or smartphone directly at the turnstile. This makes boarding much easier, especially when traveling with children and having your hands full. Children up to and including three years travel for free, which is also a budget saver.

By Taxi/Uber/Bolt

In front of the main exit of Terminal 1 is the taxi stand. During peak season, there may be longer wait times here. A ride to the city center costs between ten and 15 Euros (as of June 2024). Alternatively, you can also use Uber or Bolt, which can take you to the city center for a lower price of around ten Euros. Note that taxis and Uber/Bolt do not provide child seats. If that feels unsafe to you, it’s best to book a transport service with child seats.

One additional tip: If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, a taxi or Uber/Bolt might be the better choice, as you won’t have to struggle with suitcases and children through the subway stations. Plus, you have the option to be dropped off directly in front of your hotel or vacation rental, which is especially pleasant after a long flight.

Hotels & Other Family-Friendly Accommodations

Lisbon offers a variety of hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels in all price ranges that cater to families. Many accommodations provide extra beds and baby cribs. Particularly family-friendly options include Baixa House, Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Family Suites, and Flores Guest House.

If you prefer something a bit more luxurious, the Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Family Suites is an excellent choice. This hotel is specifically designed for families and offers numerous amenities such as a kids' club and babysitting services, allowing parents to enjoy an evening to themselves. On the other hand, Baixa House impresses with its charming apartments that feature a fully equipped kitchen – ideal for families who enjoy cooking for themselves.

Child-Friendly Restaurants in Lisbon

Finding a restaurant where you can eat with children is not a problem in Lisbon. Almost everywhere, there are soups for the little ones, and it’s completely normal for children to share from their parents' plates. Kids' menus are rather rare, but many restaurants offer high chairs. Here are some recommendations: Pharmacia for tapas, PSI for vegetarian and vegan cuisine, or Tease Café for small dishes and cakes.

Many Portuguese restaurants are very child-friendly, and the waiters often enjoy entertaining the little guests. Tease Café is particularly popular for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious coffee, while Pharmacia stands out with its creative selection of tapas. If your children love pizza, La Camionetta is a must – the pizzas are not only delicious but also served quickly, saving you from long wait times.

Lisbon with Kids: Activity Tips

In addition to the classic sights, Lisbon offers numerous child-friendly activities. These include the Jardim da Estrela park and playground, the interactive science museum Pavilhão do Conhecimento, and the Oceanário de Lisboa, the largest aquarium in Europe. The Lisbon Zoo and the Monsanto City Forest with its playgrounds are also worth a visit.

The Pavilhão do Conhecimento is an interactive science museum that delights children with exciting experiments and exhibitions. Here, they can learn playfully and let their curiosity run wild. At the Oceanário de Lisboa, you can expect impressive underwater worlds with sharks, rays, and many other sea creatures. A highlight for the whole family!

If you want to spend a day outdoors, the Monsanto City Forest is perfect. It offers numerous playgrounds and picnic areas and is an ideal place to enjoy nature and give children space to run around.

How Long Should You Book Lisbon with Kids?

The length of your stay depends on how much time you want to spend in the city. For a comprehensive impression of Lisbon, at least three full days are recommended. If you want to dive deeper into the life of the city, it’s best to plan for a week.

A longer stay allows you to explore the city at a more relaxed pace and even spend a day at the beach. The beaches of Cascais or Estoril are just a short train ride away and offer a welcome change from city life.

In conclusion, Lisbon with kids is definitely worth the trip. The city offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and child-friendly activities. With the right tips and a bit of planning, your family adventure in Lisbon will be unforgettable.

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