Friday, February 9: Exploring the Historic District
Begin your family-friendly adventure in Lisbon by exploring the historic district. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic São Jorge Castle, a medieval fortress offering breathtaking views of the city. Explore the narrow streets of Alfama, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon, and immerse yourself in its charming atmosphere. In the afternoon, head to the Lisbon Oceanarium, one of the largest aquariums in Europe, where you can discover a diverse range of marine life. Wrap up the day with a tram ride on Tram 28, which winds through the picturesque streets of the city.
São Jorge Castle: €10, 2-3 hours
Lisbon Oceanarium: €20, 2-3 hours
Tram 28: €3, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Pastéis de Belém, renowned for its traditional Portuguese custard tarts. Average cost for a meal is about €5 per person.
For lunch, visit Bonjardim, a popular local rotisserie restaurant known for its mouthwatering roasted chicken. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Cervejaria Ramiro, a renowned seafood restaurant offering a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about €30 per person.
Saturday, February 10: Carnival Festivities
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Carnival celebrations taking place in Lisbon. Start your morning by joining the festive parade in the city center, where you and your family can enjoy lively music, colorful costumes, and street performances. After the parade, head to Belém, a riverside district known for its historical monuments. Visit the iconic Belém Tower and indulge in delicious pastéis de Belém, a traditional Portuguese custard tart, at the renowned Pastéis de Belém bakery. In the evening, experience the Carnival-themed activities at the LX Factory, a trendy hub of creativity and entertainment.
Carnival Parade: Free, 2-3 hours
Belém Tower: €6, 1-2 hours
Pastéis de Belém: €3, 1 hour
LX Factory: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Mill, a cozy café known for its freshly baked pastries and artisanal coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 8€ per person.
For lunch, head to Mercado da Ribeira, a food market located in Cais do Sodré. Explore various food stalls offering a wide range of culinary options, from traditional Portuguese dishes to international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 12€ per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Restaurante Pharmacia, a unique restaurant housed in a former pharmacy. Enjoy a fusion of traditional and modern Portuguese cuisine, while surrounded by vintage medical equipment. Average cost for a meal is about 25€ per person.
Sunday, February 11: Family Fun and Nature
Spend your last day in Lisbon enjoying family-friendly activities and exploring the city's natural beauty. Start your morning by visiting the Lisbon Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. Afterward, take a scenic tram ride to the picturesque village of Sintra, located just outside Lisbon. Explore the enchanting Pena Palace and its surrounding park, which offers stunning views and magical landscapes. In the evening, head to Parque das Nações, a modern waterfront area, and enjoy a relaxing walk along the Tagus River.
Lisbon Zoo: €20, 3-4 hours
Tram to Sintra: €2.25, 1-2 hours
Pena Palace: €14, 2-3 hours
Parque das Nações: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Café Buenos Aires: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Buenos Aires, a charming café that serves a variety of pastries, fresh fruit juices, and hot beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 10 euros per person.
Tasca da Esquina: For a delightful lunch, head to Tasca da Esquina, a cozy restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese dishes with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 15 euros per person.
Restaurante Sacramento: Enjoy a memorable dinner at Restaurante Sacramento, a renowned restaurant that offers a menu featuring classic Portuguese flavors. With its cozy atmosphere and attentive service, you can expect to pay around 30 euros per person for a meal.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Lisbon, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Estufa Fria, a charming botanical garden located in the heart of the city. This serene oasis boasts a diverse collection of plants and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets. Another hidden gem is the LX Escape Room, where you and your family can solve puzzles and challenges together in a thrilling and immersive environment. For a unique culinary experience, visit Mercado da Ribeira, a vibrant food market offering a wide range of delicious Portuguese delicacies.