5 Kid-Friendly Activities in Lisbon

Lisbon, or Lisboa as its known to the locals, is famous for its hospitality and the family-like way the city welcomes visitors, not to mention 290 days of sunshine a year. It’s a city where old customs and ancient history blend with cultural entertainment and high tech. And it’s filled with kid-friendly activities for the entire family.

Aquarium Vasco da Gama

Since 1898, Aquarium Vasco da Gama has showcased marine life with a mission to provide its visitors with “the great riches of the aquatic world.” Inside, your family can discover 4,000 species of marine life, from plants to fish and more, from ecosystems around the world.

Castelo de Palmela

For a quick trip out of town, why not conquer a castle as a family? The area was likely founded by the Romans in 310 BC as a strategic point between the Tagus and Sado rivers, and the first fortifications were built by the Moors from the 8th to 9th centuries. The castle was added to in stages by the Romans, Moors, the Master of Avis and Pedro II. Within the castle’s grounds are two churches, and the views of the Arrábida hills and Sado estuary are simply amazing.

Jardim Parque das Nações

For some fun in the Portuguese sun, pay a visit to Jardim Parque das Nações. Here you will find a variety of green spaces that make up the largest green area in the city. And among the plants and trees and lawns, grab some snacks from a café and have an impromptu picnic. The park is also a terrific place for the young at heart to burn any extra energy they may have.

Museu da Marioneta (Puppet Museum)

Housed inside the Convent of Bernardas, a 17^th-century building, the Museu da Marioneta houses the country’s largest collection of traditional Portuguese puppets, as well as an incredible series of African and Asian puppets and masks. During your visit, you will learn about the various ways puppets are used, from folk presentations to contemporary theater.

Oceanário de Lisboa

In addition to Aquarium Vasco da Gama, another spot to see marine life is Oceanário de Lisboa, named the Best Aquarium in the World by TripAdvisor for 2018. Inside, 8,000 marine creatures are living their best lives, from rays to sharks to sea otters to coral reefs and more. The central aquarium is filled with more than 1.3 million gallons of saltwater, and “Forests Underwater by Takashi Amano” features tropical forests.