Lisbon Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Lisbon
This budget-friendly family itinerary for Lisbon focuses on a mix of free outdoor activities and exciting, worthwhile ticketed attractions, ensuring a memorable weekend for families with children aged 3-12. We've balanced interactive learning with active play, incorporating practical family considerations like stroller access, bathroom availability, and early bedtimes. The schedule prioritizes engaging experiences that cater to various energy levels, with an emphasis on creating lasting family memories.
Friday Evening - Family Fun Night
Friday, January 2Science Exploration
Dive into a world of discovery at Pavilhão do Conhecimento – Ciência Viva, Lisbon's interactive science museum.
Kids can explore hands-on exhibits that cover various scientific principles in a fun and engaging way, from physics to biology. There are dedicated areas for younger children, ensuring everyone finds something exciting.
Excellent for all ages (3-12+). The 'Exploratório' area is great for younger kids. There are restrooms, a café, and plenty of space for strollers. Plan for 2-3 hours of exploration. Indoor activity, perfect for any weather.
Easily accessible by public transport (Oriente station: Metro, train, bus). Paid underground parking is available at Parque das Nações. The area is flat and stroller-friendly.
Riverside Play
After the museum, enjoy some fresh air and playtime at the Parque do Tejo e Trancão, a vast riverside park adjacent to Parque das Nações.
This park offers spacious green areas, walking paths, and several playgrounds suitable for various ages. It’s a great spot for kids to burn off any remaining energy before dinner while enjoying views of the Tagus River.
Ideal for active kids. Facilities include playgrounds, open spaces for running, and public restrooms. It's a free outdoor activity. Dress warmly if it's chilly. Many family-friendly restaurants are nearby in Parque das Nações for an early dinner.
A short walk from Pavilhão do Conhecimento. Parking is available in the surrounding Parque das Nações area (some paid). Flat paths are perfect for strollers.
Saturday - Family Adventure Day
Saturday, January 3Oceanarium Wonders
Embark on an aquatic adventure at the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe.
Kids will be mesmerized by sharks, penguins, sea otters, and a stunning array of marine life from different ocean habitats. The central tank, representing the global ocean, is a particular highlight.
Highly engaging for all ages (3-12+). Excellent facilities, including restrooms, baby changing stations, and a café. Allow 2-3 hours for a full visit. It's a fantastic indoor option, especially if the weather is cool or rainy.
Easily reachable by Metro (Oriente station) or bus. Paid parking available nearby at Parque das Nações. The area is very stroller-friendly.
Gourmet Lunch Market
Head to Time Out Market Lisboa (Mercado da Ribeira) for a diverse and fun family lunch experience.
This vibrant food hall offers a wide selection of gourmet food stalls from renowned chefs and traditional Portuguese eateries. Kids can pick their favorite meals from various cuisines, from pizza to seafood, and there's a lively atmosphere they'll enjoy.
Great for families as everyone can choose what they like. High chairs are available, and restrooms are on-site. It can get busy, so aim for an earlier lunch to find seating more easily. Many options are budget-friendly. The main market (traditional produce) is also interesting for kids to see.
Located near Cais do Sodré station (Metro, train, tram, bus). Parking garages are available nearby but can be expensive. Walking from the station is easy and flat, making it stroller-friendly.
Belém Park Play
Explore the historical district of Belém.
Visit the beautiful Jardim de Belém, a spacious park perfect for kids to run around and play after lunch. It's located right between the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, offering stunning views and a chance to see some of Lisbon's most iconic landmarks from the outside (free viewing). You can also enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverfront.
Ideal for energetic kids who need to stretch their legs. There are plenty of benches for parents, and restrooms are available in the surrounding area. Combine this with seeing the exteriors of the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower for a cultural but free experience. Don't forget to point out the discoveries of the Age of Exploration!
Take tram 15E or several buses from Cais do Sodré. Parking is available but can be crowded. The area is very flat and easy for strollers.
Pastel de Nata Treat
No trip to Belém is complete without a stop at Pastéis de Belém.
While often busy, the experience of tasting the original, warm custard tarts is a must-do. You can get them for takeaway and enjoy them in the nearby park or find a spot inside if you don't mind a short wait. It's a perfect sweet treat to end the afternoon.
Kids will love the sweet treat. It's a quick stop. Restrooms available. Consider buying a few to share as a family to keep costs down. A great way to wind down the day.
Within walking distance of Jardim de Belém. Same transport options as Belém Park.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, January 4Tram 28 Ride
Start your Sunday with a scenic (and fun!
) ride on Lisbon's iconic Tram 28. While often crowded, an early Sunday morning ride can be a charming way to see many of Lisbon's historical neighborhoods from a unique perspective. Kids will enjoy the bumpy ride and the views. Aim to catch it from a less busy starting point like Martim Moniz or Campo Ourique to increase your chances of getting a seat.
A great way to see the city's sights with minimal effort, especially for little legs. Stroller access can be challenging on busy trams; consider using a carrier or foldable stroller. Restrooms are available at major stops or nearby cafés. It's a fun experience for kids to 'travel' around the city.
Requires a Viva Viagem card (rechargeable public transport card) which can be purchased and topped up at metro stations. Each ride is budget-friendly. Avoid peak tourist times.
Castle & Views
Visit the Castelo de São Jorge, a historic Moorish castle offering panoramic views of Lisbon.
While the entry is ticketed, exploring the castle walls, peacocks roaming freely, and the archaeological site provides an engaging experience for kids, sparking their imagination about knights and medieval times. The views alone are worth the visit.
Kids will love the castle walls, cannons, and resident peacocks. There are uneven surfaces and stairs, so a stroller might be challenging in some areas; a carrier for younger children is advised. Restrooms are available inside. Allow 1.5-2 hours. Consider a picnic lunch in the castle grounds to save on food costs.
Accessible by bus (e.g., 737) or by walking uphill from Alfama. Trams also reach nearby areas. Parking is limited in Alfama, so public transport or a taxi/ride-share is recommended.
Graça Playground Fun
After exploring the castle, head to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte in Graça, or a nearby park.
While the miradouro offers stunning views, a short walk will lead you to a charming local playground where kids can enjoy some free play before heading home. Alternatively, the Jardim da Cerca da Graça is another great option with play areas and green spaces. This provides a relaxed way to wind down the weekend.
A perfect spot for kids to get their last burst of energy out. Restrooms may be available in nearby cafés or restaurants. Bring some snacks and drinks for a relaxed end to the day. Enjoy the views while the kids play.
Accessible by bus (e.g., 737, 734) or a short walk from the Castelo de São Jorge area (downhill). Parking is very difficult in this neighborhood.
This weekend itinerary for Lisbon can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.