city
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Lisbon is probably the most family friendly city I have ever visited. From museums and historic sites to parks and restaurants there is something for everyone in the family. |
eat:
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Its all about the meat at this Brazilian steak house located in the Vasco de Gamma shopping center. The menu includes all types of grilled meat and there is a kid's sized option on the menu as well. There is truly something to satisfy every appetite.
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Pizza? Sushi? You don't have to pick just one when you eat here. The restaurant is conveniently located near museums and the Torre de Belem. Choose from a variety of freshly made sushi, hand thrown pizzas or calzones. If the weather is nice opt to eat outside on the patio where the views rival the food.
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This is a true foodie haven. Located in a former fish market dating back to the 13th century, today the Mercado is a vibrant food hall offering a vast variety of local food, drink and gourmet treats. Wander the stalls to see what looks good, order then grab a seat. The hard part is deciding. Conveniently located near public transportation.
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Don't let the line discourage you. This is the best place in Lisbon to buy pastel de nata, the little custard filled tarts that are the city's signature dessert. Located in the same historic building since 1837 the bakery produces other sweet Portuguese treats. You can eat in or take out and reservations are available for groups of 12 people or larger.
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Whether you are looking for a midday snack, a leisurely weekend brunch, breakfast or dinner, this funky cafe has something on the menu for you. Located in the heart of the Alfama district you can surf the web, browse through their adjacent second hand book library or take in the visiting art exhibits while enjoying your food.
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Located in Barrio Alto this small restaurant has a bright decor and food to match. Friendly multi-lingual staff serve up Portuguese specialties with a smile. Very reasonably priced with live piano music on some evenings.
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Who doesn't love noodles? If you enjoy the latest noodle craze then this is the place for ramen noodles in Lisbon. You can choose your own type of noodles and add-ins to create a please every palate. As an Asian fusion restaurant, they also serve sushi and other Japanese dishes.
Grab a seat on the outside patio and enjoy your own bowlful of noodles. |
This is the place to go for fresh fish and unlike so many seafood restaurants it is very reasonably priced. Select your own fish or shellfish from the displays and it will be cooked to your specifications. As for a table along the water; kids can look at the boats in the harbor, the fish swimming below them and the trains passing overhead.
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play:
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There is nothing like seeing a city from the water and with Hippo Trip you can do it. Hop aboard this amphibious bus and view Lisbon's most famous sights from both the water and the land. Due to safety regulations, kids under two aren't permitted but if your kids are older than this be sure to check it out.
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Who doesn't love exploring a castle? Spend the morning at Castelo do Sao Jorge and go back in time as you walk the castle walls, explore the ongoing archeological dig and perhaps meet some dueling knights. Check out the panoramic views of Lisbon's old city, stop for a break in the cafe let the kids let off some steam.
Discounted admission with the Lisboa Card. |
When your feet are tired from all of the walking hop aboard one of these little three wheeled trucks and be driven around the city. Pick a neighborhood (City by the River, City of Hills) a theme (Fado, City by Night) of even get out of town (Sintra, Casais and Cabo da Roca) and let your guide point out the best Lisbon has to offer.
Discount with the Lisboa Card. |
Lisbon is a hilly city and sometimes you need a little help getting to the top. When that is the case jump on the Santa Just a Lift, the only vertical public lift in Lisbon, and go for a ride of a lifetime.
The Lisboa Card provides access to this lift as well as several other internationally recognized lifts located throughout Lisbon. |
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Visit this tower perched on the banks of the Tagus River. From the top of the turret you are rewarded with sweeping views up and down the river. Kids will get a kick out of peering out the numerous windows and watching the tide roll in, turning the tower into an island.
Free admission with the Lisboa Card. |
Built with children in mind, this hands on science museum is filled with interactive exhibits for kids of all ages. Kids can experiment with physics, defy gravity like an astronaut and learn team building skills while constructing their own pint sized town. The museum is the perfect way to spend the day when the weather sends you inside.
Discounted admission with the Lisboa Card. |
Take a ride on the telecabine to have a bird's eye view of the Vasco da Gamma Bridge and Lisbon's newly redeveloped waterfront and conference area. The Nation's Park area was redeveloped for the 1998 World Expo and today is home to waterfront green space, museums, a convention center, hotels, shops and restaurants. You can ride one way and walk back or round trip.
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When in Lisbon be sure to visit the largest aquarium in Europe. The center aquarium holds 500 million liters of salt water and thousands of fish, sharks and sea life. You can visit the penguin habitat, watch sea otters frolic and jelly fish that seem to glow in the dark. Temporary exhibits change regularly.
Discounted admission with the Lisboa Card. |
stay:
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This luxury hotel is conveniently located just three stops from the airport and near the Oriental train station. Rooms are well appointed with free Wi-Fi, staff are friendly and family rooms provide ample room for the entire family. The buffet breakfast is expansive and includes a variety of both hot and cold items.
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Child friendly hotel located in the heart of downtown Lisbon close to the Avenida Metro station. Impeccable and friendly service where young visitors are greeted with their own special stuffed friend upon check-in.
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Free parking, free WiFi and sound proof family rooms make this quaint bed & breakfast located in a 19th century mansion a hit with travelers. The guest house is just 650 meters from the Rossio Metro station and within walking distance of the Chaido shopping district. The guest house even provides babysitting services upon request.
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Located in the heart of Lisbon these apartments sleep between 2 and 10 people. All of the apartments are equipped with kitchen facilities and free Wi-Fi. Mercado de Riberia and numerous restaurants are just steps away. Airport shuttle service is available and Metro Cais dos Sodre is 150 meters away.
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general tips:
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Invest in a Lisboa Card. Available in 24, 48 or 72 hour increments, these cards serve as your pass for buses, the metro, trams, trains and elevators throughout the city meaning you can skip the often long ticket queues at the stations. They also provide you with free or discounted admission to attractions throughout the Lisbon region. Pick yours up right at the airport or at any of the city's tourism bureaus.
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Lisbon has a fantastic public transportation system. Buses, the metro, trams and trains can connect you to all points in the city in a matter of minutes which is great since the city is sprawling and hilly. Public transportation is clean and well marked but not all of the stations are handicapped accessible so be sure to check which stops have elevators and escalators if you have strollers in tow.
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Lisbon is a hilly and sprawling city filled with cobblestone and marble streets and plazas. Be sure to wear good walking shoes and if you need to use a stroller, one with good shocks. Alternatively a child carrier might be easier since many places don't have ramps. I relied on a combination of walking and public transportation to get me where I wanted to go.
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