Itinerary

Lisbon is a fantastic city for families, filled with history, culture, and plenty of fun activities. Here’s a delightful 6-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and family-friendly fun. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Alfama

Morning:

• Arrive in Lisbon and check into your accommodation. If you’re staying in the city center, you’ll be close to many attractions!
• Grab a light breakfast at a local café. Try a pastel de nata (custard tart) – a must-have!

Afternoon:

• Head to the Alfama district, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon. Wander through the narrow, winding streets and enjoy the colorful buildings.
• Visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) and take a moment to appreciate its stunning architecture.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Alfama. Try some traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau à brás (codfish) or francesinha (a hearty sandwich).
• If the kids are up for it, catch a Fado performance in the evening. The soulful music is a unique experience!

## Day 2: Belém and the Riverfront

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a tram or a leisurely walk to the Belém district.
• Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The architecture is breathtaking!

Afternoon:

• Stop by the Belém Tower and explore the surrounding gardens. The kids will love running around!
• Don’t forget to visit the Pastéis de Belém bakery for the original custard tarts. Yum!

Evening:

• Have dinner at a riverside restaurant. Enjoy the views of the Tagus River while the kids can play nearby.
• If you have time, take a sunset stroll along the riverfront. It’s magical!

## Day 3: Sintra Day Trip

Morning:

• Take a day trip to Sintra, just a short train ride from Lisbon. It’s a fairy-tale town with stunning palaces!
• Start with a visit to the Pena Palace. The colorful architecture and gardens are sure to impress everyone.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Moorish Castle for some incredible views. The kids will love climbing the ancient walls!
• Have lunch in Sintra’s town center. Try some local specialties like travesseiros (puff pastries).

Evening:

• Head back to Lisbon and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Perhaps try a family-friendly pizzeria or a casual seafood spot.

## Day 4: Parque das Nações and Oceanário

Morning:

• Visit the Parque das Nações, a modern area of Lisbon. Start with a visit to the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe. The kids will be fascinated by the marine life!

Afternoon:

• After the aquarium, explore the park. There are playgrounds, gardens, and even a cable car ride with great views of the river.
• Have lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Evening:

• Consider visiting the Vasco da Gama Tower for panoramic views of the city at sunset.
• Enjoy dinner in the Parque das Nações area, where you can find a variety of cuisines.

## Day 5: Culture and History

Morning:

• Visit the National Museum of Ancient Art. It has a fantastic collection, and there are often family-friendly activities.
• Stroll through the Bairro Alto district, known for its vibrant streets and shops.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. The gardens are perfect for a picnic lunch, and the museum has art that appeals to all ages.
• If time allows, visit the Lisbon Zoo for some animal fun!

Evening:

• Have dinner in the Chiado district. There are plenty of family-friendly options, from traditional Portuguese to international cuisine.

## Day 6: Shopping and Departure

Morning:

• Spend your last day shopping for souvenirs. Head to the Baixa district for local shops and boutiques.
• Visit the Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market) for a delicious lunch. It’s a great place to sample various Portuguese dishes.

Afternoon:

• If time permits, take a ride on the iconic Tram 28 for a scenic tour of the city.
• Enjoy a final stroll through the streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Evening:

• Head back to your accommodation to pack up and prepare for departure. If you have time, enjoy one last dinner at a favorite spot!

Tips:

• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as Lisbon is quite hilly and involves a lot of walking.
• Consider getting a Lisboa Card for public transport and discounts on attractions.
• Always check the opening hours of attractions in advance, as they can vary.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Lisbon with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️