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In our experience, four days with kids in Lisbon hits the sweet spot. A trip of this length gives you plenty of time to explore Lisbon’s coolest neighborhoods, hop on the iconic trams, and even squeeze in a day trip to Sintra or Cascais.
With the right 4-day Lisbon itinerary, you can do all of this at a pace that embraces the jet lag. Experience Lisbon with your kids in a way that feels natural, unhurried, and not like you’re completing a checklist.
It’s hard to decide how long to stay in a destination – especially on European trips with kids when it always feels like there’s so much to see, but you don’t know how much your kids can tolerate. It’s much easier to confidently make the decision about how long to stay in Lisbon (or anywhere, for that matter) when you sketch out a plan for your days.
That way, you can be sure that you have enough time to see the things at the top of your wishlist and have some downtime, too.
Lisbon is just one of those cities where you can wander around and stumble upon something amazing – and we encourage you to do it! Allowing yourself four days in Lisbon gives you permission to leave some of your itinerary empty until you arrive.
So, whether this is your first time visiting or you’re coming back for more, this 4-day Lisbon itinerary will help you hit all of the family-friendly highlights and discover a few hidden gems before setting off to (hopefully) explore other incredible areas of Portugal like Porto, the Algarve, or the Alentejo region.
To accommodate even those with fewer travel days in Lisbon, we’ve designed our 4-day Lisbon itinerary to include how we would spend 1, 2, and 3 days in Lisbon with kids, also.

Day 1 Lisbon Itinerary: Explore Lisbon Sights by Tuk-Tuk
If you only have one day to explore Lisbon with kids, this is the perfect itinerary for you! It includes our must-visit restaurant, a fun children’s park, and a unique way to see the best sites in Lisbon.
Morning: Get outside to the Pink Street and Time Out Market
Welcome to Lisbon! You’ve just arrived and after a quick 30-minute ride into the city, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and exhaustion. Head straight to your hotel for a quick refresh, then get moving to shake off the jet lag.
Once you’ve dropped off your bags, start your day at the famous Pink Street. It’s colorful, lively, and the perfect intro to all the fun you’re going to have with your kids in Lisbon.
After snapping some pics, wander over to Jardim Dom Luis Park by the Time Out Market. It’s a great little spot for your little ones to burn off some energy from the overnight flight while getting some much-needed sunshine to overcome jetlag.
When the kids get hungry (or just need a break), you’ve hit the jackpot – Time Out Market is right next door.
This place is a must for kids in Lisbon. There are endless food choices. Seriously, even the pickiest eaters will find something they love! It makes grabbing a bite with kids super easy.

Afternoon: Explore Lisbon By Tuk-Tuk
On the first day in any new city, we always recommend a tour to get an overview of the main neighborhoods and sites. That way, you’ll get a feel for the spots you want to dive deeper into during the rest of your trip.
For your Lisbon itinerary, our top pick is a private, 4-hour Tuk Tuk tour – great for kids 5 and up. This tour will take you to some of the best spots in Lisbon, including:
- Lisbon Cathedral
- Alfama
- Praça do Comércio
- Jerónimos Monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Belém Tower (a UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Padrão dos Descobrimentos
- Estrela Basilica
Your guide will share fun facts about Lisbon while you ride, and you’ll get to stop at gorgeous viewpoints along the way. You’ll also have the chance to try Lisbon’s famous Pasteis de Belém.
If you’re traveling with younger kids, a private half-day eco Tuk Tuk tour is a better option. Just make sure to request a booster seat ahead of time.

Mango Tree Tour Tip
We recommend a tuk-tuk tour with kids on your first day in Lisbon! Some tours have minimum age requirements, but we encourage you to reach out before booking to see if they will accept younger children, as some are flexible. These two tuk-tuk tours welcome families:
Four-Hour Tuk-Tuk Tour (Ages 5+)
Private Half-Day Tuk-Tuk Tour (Ages 3+)
With babies, pop them in a carrier and opt for a Food Tour!
Evening: Grab a kid-friendly family dinner
End your day with a relaxed, family-friendly dinner near your hotel. If you’re staying in Chiado, Baixa, or Alfama, we love Pizzeria Tapas La Families for an easy, kid-approved meal.

Day 2 Lisbon Itinerary: A Fun-Filled Day with Kids in Lisbon
If you’ve got two days to explore Lisbon, start with our 1- day Lisbon itinerary, then add the following for your second day.
Morning: Wander by the river through Praca do Comercio
To kick off another fun day in Lisbon, start with breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café. Most places will have delicious pastries, but if you’re craving something a bit heartier, Dear Breakfast in Chiado is a tasty option.
Once you’re fueled up, make your way to the Praça do Comércio area. The Lisboa Story Center is an interactive experience that gives a cool overview of Lisbon’s history. While it’s more suited to older kids, it only takes about an hour, so little kids with short attention spans can tag along, too. If you have the Lisbon Card, it’s included.
If your crew prefers something more relaxed, the square is perfect for wandering. Head toward the river for a scenic stroll along the Tagus, or check out the Rua Augusta Arch. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the 74 steps to the top for some awesome views.
Another option is to walk up Rua Augusta to Rossio Square, where the kids can run around, chase pigeons, and play by the fountains. It’s simple, but trust us – kids love it! The mosaic floors and impressive architecture are a bonus! At Mango Tree Travel, we love to pick something more structured for each day and then leave downtime to casually explore (or not).

Afternoon: Take it slow or explore a castle on a hill
By now, everyone’s probably hungry! Grab lunch near Rossio Square. We recommend El Clan for a fun vibe and a great menu of delicious Portuguese favorites like grilled octopus and codfish alongside familiar favorites like hamburgers and chicken breast. Or if you’re craving something different, Swaagat – The Taste of India has amazing Indian food.
Make sure to stop by Confeitaria Nacional for some mouth-watering pastries. And for the parents, don’t miss A Ginjinha, a tiny bar famous for its local cherry-like liquor.
After lunch, find a park and a glass of wine and just enjoy the city with no agenda.
Or, if you’re an active family with lots of energy still in the tank, then Castelo de São Jorge is calling your name. It’s perched up on a hill with amazing views and plenty of space to roam, the perfect place to explore a piece of history with kids.
Grab a skip the line ticket for the castle to avoid the crankiness that comes with waiting in a long line. Once you’re in, you’ll find a medieval playground come to life, with towers, walls, and hidden pathways to explore for hours.
Mango Tree Travel Tip: The majority of the Castelo de São Jorge is large open spaces great for kids to run around freely, but some areas do have stairs, uneven floors, or low walls. If you’re traveling with younger kids, just make sure to stick close by so they can explore safely.
Finally, don’t miss the peacocks roaming freely around the castle grounds! If you’re lucky, they might even spread their feathers – definitely a kid-favorite memory!
Evening: Cruise the Tagus
As the sun sets, consider wrapping up your day with a unique tour. You’ll see recommendations everywhere for HippoTrip (a land and water tour) and the Yellow Bus Sunset Cruise, which are popular with families. But frankly, they can feel super touristy and lacking in authenticity.
For a more memorable experience, splurge on a private sunset cruise. You will get to see landmarks like the Christ the King statue and the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, all while enjoying a serene cruise on the river. Your kids will love being on the water, and parents can relax with a glass of wine while the sun sets – pure magic and better than a HippoTrip in our books.
Design the ultimate trip to Portugal with kids.

Day 3 Lisbon Itinerary for Families: Explore a New Lisbon Neighborhood
Only have three days in Lisbon with kids? That’s okay! Here is day three of our complete Lisbon family itinerary. Keep days one and two the same, and add these recommendations onto your third day.
Morning: Explore Baixa
For your third morning in Lisbon, it’s time to casually explore a new neighborhood: Baixa.
Grab a pastry and head to the Santa Justa Lift early to beat the crowds. Once you’re at the top, take your time soaking in those gorgeous views and snapping family photos. Afterwards, you can pop over to the Carmo Convent – it opens at 10 AM, so it’s the perfect next stop.
From there, just enjoy wandering the area. There are street performers galore and so many shops you can pop in and out of (including the iconic Livraria Bertrand!)

Afternoon: Shopping & Park Time
Grab burgers at To B. From there, head uphill to another great park, Jardim Botanico de Lisboa. Across the street from the green space, you’ll find some delightful high-end stores showcasing products made in Portugal. There’s a great gin bar for a pit stop, too.
Evening: Adult Dinner Out!
Make sure to enjoy at least one adult dinner in Lisbon, even when visiting with kids. You’re in Portugal, after all! Use the Kids’ Club at your hotel or arrange a babysitter through the concierge desk. The kids will appreciate the down time, and you’ll appreciate a night out.
Consider dinner at Michelin-starred Alma or enjoy a cozy evening enjoying the sounds of traditional fado music in Alfama.

Day 4 Lisbon Itinerary: Escape the City Centre
Morning: Oceanario de Lisboa
On your last morning in Lisbon, switch things up with a little adventure just outside the city. Head to the Oceanario de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe, and a treat for kids. Getting there by taxi or metro is easy, and you’ll be transported to the underwater wonderland in no time.
The whole family will be amazed by the massive central tank, where sharks, rays, and colorful fish all swim together.
Afternoon: Parque das Nacoes
It’s time to refuel. Luckily, you’ve got some great options nearby:
- ZeroZero for delicious pizza
- The Fifties Diner if you’re craving some classic American comfort food
- Honest Greens for a quick, healthy bite
If you’re in the mood for a more relaxed afternoon, you can stroll along the Parque das Nações waterfront. Take the cable car ride to appreciate the stunning views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge from above. (There’s a combo aquarium ticket you can buy if you know you want to do this, too).
If the weather isn’t cooperating, the Pavilhão do Conhecimento is a fantastic alternative for your afternoon. This science and technology museum has everything from water experiments and machine building to robot challenges and even a science playground for the little ones. It’s a great way to keep the kids entertained while sneaking in a bit of education!
Evening: Enjoy one final relaxing meal in Lisbon
To wrap up your day, grab dinner at Ha Tapas No Mercado and enjoy a relaxed meal before heading back to pack up for your next adventure.

Alternative Day 4: Day Trips From Lisbon With Kids
If you want to switch it up or add another day to your 4-day Lisbon trip, there are two classic day trip options from Lisbon:
Sintra
If you’ve heard people rave about Sintra, it’s for good reason – it’s like stepping into a real-life fairytale. With its magical castles and lush landscapes, it’s a full-day trip you won’t forget. Sintra is super easy to explore on your own if you prefer a slower pace with kids, but there are also full day or half-day private tours to Sintra, to take the extra logistics off your plate.
Cascais
If a beach day sounds more your speed, Cascais is a great option. It’s super easy to get to Cascais from Lisbon. Just hop on the train from Cais do Sodré Station (a 40-minute ride) and you’re there!
Cascais is a laid-back coastal town with sandy beaches and parks for kids to run around. While there are tours that include a visit to Cascais (and some even combine it with a trip to Sintra), we recommend heading there on your own to go at your own family-friendly pace.

How to Get Around with Kids in Lisbon
Getting around Lisbon with kids is a breeze with Lisbon’s well-connected public transportation system. Between trams, buses, metros, and even funiculars, you’ll be zipping around the city without breaking a sweat. The ease of the transport options gives you a lot of leeway during a 4-day Lisbon itinerary.
Grab a Navegante Occasional Card (formerly the Viva Viagem Card) for easy, hassle-free access to all the public transport options.
For a little extra fun, hop on one of the city’s iconic trams – your kids will love the adventure of climbing Lisbon’s steep hills in style.
Strollers, however, can be tricky with all those cobblestones and stairs, so it’s a good idea to bring a baby carrier to navigate the hills like a pro. While walking is often the best way to explore, hopping on public transport can save those little legs from getting too tired.
Want the full scoop on all the transportation options? Check out our complete guide so you’ll be ready to navigate Lisbon like a local from the moment you arrive.

Where to Stay for Families in Lisbon
Picking the perfect place to stay with kids in Lisbon? It’s all about the location. Chiado and Baixa are prime neighborhoods that put you right in the heart of the action, with easy access to Lisbon’s top attractions, plus plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafés just a stroll away.
For families who prefer a quieter stay, consider the area around the Lisbon Aquarium – you’ll get lovely water views and still be a short ride from the city center. Keep in mind, though, that for a 4-day Lisbon itinerary, you’ll want to maximize your time, and staying in the heart of everything might make more sense.
No matter which neighborhood you choose, Lisbon is packed with family-friendly accommodations. One of our all-time favorites? The Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Luxury Hotel & Apartments. This family-first hotel has set the standard for family hotels and goes above and beyond with services and amenities designed to make traveling with little kids a breeze.
Check out Mango Tree’s full list of family-friendly hotels to find the perfect place to stay for your crew.
Other Fun Things to Do in Lisbon for Families
Looking for more family fun in Lisbon? There’s plenty to do to keep you entertained for more than four days, or you can switch it up if some of our recommended activities don’t sound quite like your speed. With What to Do In Lisbon With Kids: 40 Family-Friendly Ideas you’ll find load of options for different ages, travel styles, and interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
When traveling with kids, many families prefer to stay in one place for as long as possible– less packing, moving, and logistics. Sintra is an easy day trip. But here’s the thing: Sintra has so much to offer that it can be tough to see it all in just one day. If exploring Sintra is a priority, consider spending a couple of days there (and we can help you arrange early access to the palaces for a VIP experience!).
Lisbon is the most expensive city in Portugal. Compared to other major European cities, however, Lisbon is quite affordable to live in and visit. Plus, many of our favorite family activities are free or low-cost, like wandering the city streets and enjoying the parks and scenic viewpoints.
Lisbon has a mild climate year-round, making it a great destination any time of year. Summers are hot and dry, but thanks to those cool Atlantic breezes, the heat is bearable. Summer temps usually hover in the 80s°F (high 20s°C), though it can get a bit hotter in August.
Winters are short and mild, with some rain, but the temps usually stay comfortable, rarely dropping below the 50s°F (10°C). You won’t need heavy winter gear, but bring a jacket and an umbrella just in case.
Keep Exploring: Take a spin through our Portugal Destination Page.

Create Your Custom Itinerary with Mango Tree Travel
At Mango Tree Travel, we know that no two families travel alike. With our custom trip planning, we can design a Portugal family trip that fits your vibe and style, and offers something for every family member. We specialize in slow travel for families in Europe, combining a city stop with an immersive countryside or coastal retreat so you can discover together in a meaningful way.
Together, let’s plan a Portugal family trip you’ll always remember.