Photo by Fermin Rodriguez on Unsplash
Why This Itinerary?
Lisbon is one of Europe’s most family-friendly and vibrant capitals, full of color, history, food, and sunshine. This 5-day itinerary blends iconic sights with fun activities for kids, relaxed meals, and easy day trips—including magical Sintra. We've kept walking distances manageable and balanced busy attractions with chill-out time.
Day 1: Alfama & Baixa
Ease into Lisbon with its oldest neighborhoods, scenic viewpoints, and classic tram rides.
9:00 AM Explore Alfama
Wander narrow alleys, see local life, and listen for traditional Fado music echoing through the streets.
Duration: 2 hours | Cost: Free
11:30 AM Castelo de São Jorge
Kids love the castle walls, peacocks, and panoramic views of the city.
Duration: 1.5 hours | Cost: €10–15 per adult, kids discounted (approx.)
1:00 PM Lunch in Baixa
Grab a family-friendly meal at Rua Augusta or nearby cafés.
Duration: 1 hour | Budget: €€
2:30 PM Tram 28 Ride
Take the iconic yellow tram for a fun and scenic ride (go early or mid-afternoon to avoid crowds).
Duration: 45 minutes | Cost: €3 per person (approx.)
4:00 PM Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
A relaxing viewpoint perfect for families and photos.
Duration: 30 minutes | Cost: Free
Day 2: Belém & the Riverfront
Historic monuments, museums, and the famous Portuguese custard tarts.
9:30 AM Jerónimos Monastery
Marvel at its stunning Manueline architecture. Book ahead.
Duration: 1.5 hours | Cost: €10–15 (approx.)
11:00 AM Belém Tower
A must-see oceanfront fortress filled with history.
Duration: 1 hour | Cost: €6–10 (approx.)
12:30 PM Pastéis de Belém
Enjoy Portugal’s most famous pastries at the original shop.
Budget: €
2:00 PM MAAT Museum
Striking architecture and kid-friendly exhibitions.
Duration: 1–1.5 hours | Cost: €6–10 (approx.)
4:00 PM Riverfront Walk
Relax along the Tagus River—perfect for children to play and unwind.
Cost: Free
Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra
A fairy-tale day of palaces, forests, and hilltop views.
8:30 AM Train to Sintra
A quick and simple 40-minute ride.
Cost: €2–5 per person (approx.)
10:00 AM Pena Palace
One of Europe’s most colorful and imaginative palaces—kids love it!
Duration: 2 hours | Cost: €14–20 (approx.)
1:00 PM Lunch in Sintra
Try local dishes like bacalhau or piri-piri chicken.
Budget: €€
2:30 PM Quinta da Regaleira
Explore tunnels, gardens, and the famous Initiation Well—great for curious kids.
Duration: 2 hours | Cost: €10–15 (approx.)
5:00 PM Return to Lisbon
Relax after a magical day.
Day 4: Oceanarium & Parque das Nações
A modern side of Lisbon with ocean life, cable cars, and riverside fun.
9:30 AM Lisbon Oceanarium
One of Europe’s best—massive tanks and stunning marine species.
Duration: 2 hours | Cost: €15–22 (approx.)
12:00 PM Lunch by the River
Family-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating.
Budget: €€
2:00 PM Cable Car Ride
A fun activity offering river and city views.
Duration: 20 minutes | Cost: €4–7 (approx.)
3:00 PM Pavilion of Knowledge
An interactive science museum—excellent for kids.
Duration: 1.5 hours | Cost: €5–10 (approx.)
Day 5: Cascais & the Coast
Enjoy a relaxing final day by the sea.
9:00 AM Train to Cascais
A scenic 35-minute ride from Cais do Sodré.
Cost: €2–5 (approx.)
10:00 AM Cascais Beaches
Family-friendly sandy beaches with calm water.
Cost: Free
12:30 PM Lunch in Cascais
Seafood restaurants with great views.
Budget: €€€ (approx.)
3:00 PM Boca do Inferno
Dramatic cliff formations just a short walk from the center.
Duration: 45 minutes | Cost: Free
💡 Essential Travel Tips
- Best months: April–June & September–October
- Transport: The Viva Viagem card saves money on trams and metro
- Budget: Expect €70–120 per adult per day (excluding accommodation)
- Family-friendly: Lisbon is hilly—use trams or taxis with young kids
- Dining: Kids’ menus available in most restaurants
🏨 Where to Stay
Baixa, Chiado, and Parque das Nações are great for families—safe, walkable, and well connected. Look for hotels with family rooms or apartments.
Browse hotels in Lisbon → (Affiliate link)
✈️ Getting to Lisbon
Lisbon Airport (LIS) is just 7 km from the city center. The metro is the quickest option (20 minutes), while taxis and ride-shares cost €10–20.