Weekend in Lisbon
This weekend itinerary for Lisbon focuses on a delightful mix of cost-free fun and engaging ticketed attractions, perfect for families with children aged 3-12. We've prioritized activities that are genuinely entertaining and educational for kids, offering practical details for parents regarding accessibility, facilities, and transportation. Enjoy Lisbon's best, creating cherished family memories with a smart budget in mind. For paid attractions, look for family passes or online booking discounts to save money.
Friday Evening - Play & Dine
Friday, November 21Jardim da Estrela Play
Kick off the weekend with some free play at Jardim da Estrela, one of Lisbon's most beautiful and family-friendly parks.
It features a large, well-maintained playground perfect for children aged 3-12, complete with swings, slides, and climbing structures. Kids will also enjoy spotting ducks and turtles in the pond.
Ideal for letting kids burn off energy after a week of school. The park has restrooms and a couple of bistros. The playground often has a sandy area, which is great for little ones. Easily accessible for strollers. Age suitability: 3-12 years. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Easily reached by tram 28 or various bus routes. Street parking might be available but can be challenging. Consider public transport or ride-sharing. Stroller-accessible paths throughout the park.
Family Dinner Fun
Enjoy an early, relaxed family dinner at A.
P.F Cafe and Restaurant, known for its kid-friendly environment. This restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, a covered terrace, and a dedicated kids' playground on the ground floor. They even offer babysitting services on weekends (check availability for Friday evening).
Perfect for families with young children, allowing parents to enjoy their meal while kids play safely. The menu includes kid-friendly options. The early timing suits children's bedtimes. Age suitability: All ages, especially 3-12 for the playground. Duration: 1.5 hours.
Located in a neighborhood with some street parking, but public transport (bus) is also an option. Stroller access is good.
Saturday - Science & Ocean Adventure
Saturday, November 22Oceanário Wonders
Dive into the incredible underwater world at Oceanário de Lisboa, Europe's largest indoor aquarium.
Kids will be mesmerized by sharks, rays, penguins, sea otters, and thousands of other marine creatures across four distinct ocean habitats. It’s an immersive and educational experience for all ages.
A fantastic indoor option, perfect for any weather. The layout is stroller-friendly with ramps and lifts. Expect to spend 2-3 hours. There's a sizable restaurant inside with kid-friendly food options. Age suitability: All ages, highly engaging for 3-12. Restrooms and baby changing facilities available.
Easily accessible by Metro (Oriente station on the Red Line) or various bus routes. Public car parks available in Parque das Nações. Oriente station is connected to Vasco da Gama shopping center for easy access.
Riverside Lunch & Play
Enjoy a casual family lunch at one of the many eateries in Parque das Nações or grab a picnic to eat by the water gardens.
The area is traffic-free and offers interactive water features and open spaces for kids to run around after eating, like the Jardins da Água.
A great opportunity for a budget-friendly lunch if you bring your own picnic, or choose from various restaurants ranging from fast food in Vasco da Gama Shopping Centre to more sit-down options. Kids will love the water features. Restrooms are available in the shopping center and around the park.
Walking distance from the Oceanário. The entire Parque das Nações area is stroller-friendly and pedestrianized.
Science Museum Fun
Continue your adventure at the Pavilhão do Conhecimento – Ciência Viva, an outstanding interactive science museum located right next to the Oceanário.
This museum features engaging experiments, hands-on exhibits like the 'Unfinished House,' and a high-wire cycling experience (for taller kids) that will spark curiosity in children of all ages.
An excellent follow-up to the aquarium, providing hours of interactive fun and learning. The museum is designed for children 3-17. Stroller accessible. Age suitability: 3-17 years (some activities for older kids). Expect 2-3 hours. Restrooms available.
A short walk from the Oceanário and Oriente Metro station. Public car parks available in Parque das Nações.
Riverside Dinner Playground
Enjoy a delightful early dinner at Doca de Santo, a family-friendly riverside restaurant in Alcântara.
It boasts a private playground, allowing children to play while parents savor Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisine with views of the Tagus River. A perfect way to wind down a busy day.
Kids will appreciate the dedicated play area. Menu options cater to both adults and children. Highchairs and diaper changing facilities are available. Age suitability: All ages, especially good for 3-12.
Accessible by bus or tram (Tram 15E). Limited parking nearby, consider ride-sharing. Stroller accessible.
Sunday - Nature & Views
Sunday, November 23Estufa Fria Gardens & Play
Start your Sunday with a peaceful visit to Estufa Fria (Cold Greenhouse), a beautiful botanical garden featuring exotic plants, waterfalls, and ponds.
It's a serene escape in the city center. On Sundays, entry is free until 2 PM. Afterwards, let the kids enjoy the popular playground within Parque Eduardo VII, located adjacent to Estufa Fria.
A relaxing yet engaging activity. Kids will love exploring the winding paths and discovering different plants. The playground provides a great contrast. Restrooms are available. Age suitability: All ages for the gardens, 3-12 for the playground. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Easily accessible by Metro (Parque or Marquês de Pombal stations, Blue Line). Public parking is available underground. Stroller accessible within the park and gardens.
Parque das Nações Cable Car
Head back to Parque das Nações for a scenic ride on the Telecabine Lisboa (cable car).
This 5-minute ride offers panoramic views of the Tagus Estuary, Vasco da Gama Bridge, and the modern architecture of the park. It’s a fun and relaxed way to see the city from a different perspective.
A short, exciting ride for kids that provides great photo opportunities. The enclosed cabins are safe and can accommodate strollers. Age suitability: All ages. Duration: 5-10 minutes (one way).
Accessible via Oriente Metro station (Red Line) and a short walk. Combine with a stroll along the waterfront.
Sweet Treat & Play
Conclude your weekend with a special sweet treat, like traditional Portuguese pastries or ice cream, at a café in a charming neighborhood such as Príncipe Real. Afterward, let the kids have one last play session at the Jardim do Príncipe Real, a lovely garden with a smaller playground, perfect for a gentle wind-down before the school week.
A relaxed way to end the weekend. Many cafés around Príncipe Real offer delicious pastries and ice cream. The garden is well-maintained and offers a pleasant atmosphere. Restrooms available in nearby cafes. Age suitability: All ages.
Accessible by Metro (Rato station, Yellow Line, then a walk) or various bus routes. Street parking can be limited.
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.