Lisbon is often praised as one of Europe’s most charming capitals—a place where historic cobblestone streets meet a sparkling river, where centuries-old monuments stand alongside lively cafés, and where warm sunshine graces the city nearly year-round. But beyond its romantic image, Lisbon is also an incredibly family-friendly destination, with a wealth of activities for children of all ages.
From aquariums and castles to tuk-tuk rides and dolphin-spotting boat trips, the city and its surrounding areas offer experiences that blend fun, learning, and adventure. What makes Lisbon particularly appealing to families is its scale: it’s compact enough to explore at a relaxed pace, but full of variety, so there’s always something new to discover each day.
With Portugal Magik Private Tours, families can explore these treasures in complete comfort. Imagine gliding through the city in a luxury Mercedes-Benz, with a private English-speaking driver-guide who knows not just the landmarks, but also the best playgrounds, ice cream stops, and quiet viewpoints away from the crowds. No public transport stress, no rushing—just a tailor-made itinerary that fits your family’s rhythm.
Over the past 14 years, Portugal Magik has hosted thousands of guests, and many of our happiest clients are families. Parents often tell us how relieved they felt knowing the logistics were taken care of, allowing them to simply enjoy time together. And for the kids? It’s a series of adventures—some magical, some educational, and all unforgettable.
Here are 9 of the best things to do in Lisbon with children, plus 2 bonus adventures just outside the city.
1. Explore the Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium)
Located in the Parque das Nações district, the Lisbon Oceanarium is one of Europe’s largest and most captivating aquariums. Its vast central tank houses species from all over the globe, including graceful rays, curious sharks, and hundreds of colorful fish that seem to dance through the water. Around it, themed zones recreate the ecosystems of the Antarctic, the Pacific kelp forests, and tropical coral reefs.
For children, the experience is pure wonder—penguins waddling across icy landscapes, playful sea otters twirling in the water, and jellyfish drifting like glowing clouds. Parents love that it’s educational without feeling like a lecture: interactive displays teach about marine conservation in an engaging way.
Portugal Magik Guest Review:
“Our guide took us early in the morning before the big groups arrived. My 7-year-old was glued to the penguins, and we could take our time at each section. Having a private driver meant we could leave our jackets and snacks in the car—no heavy bags!” – Sarah P., USA
2. Enjoy a Private 1-Hour Tuk-Tuk Tour of Lisbon
For sheer fun, nothing beats zipping through Lisbon’s hills and winding streets in a private tuk-tuk. Kids love the sense of adventure—no windows, just open-air views of colorful neighborhoods, lively squares, and stunning viewpoints. Parents appreciate that it covers more ground than walking, without tiring little legs, and can be easily adapted for quick photo stops or a pastel de nata break.
Your Portugal Magik guide can coordinate with trusted tuk-tuk drivers to create a loop that passes through Alfama’s narrow lanes, Baixa’s grand plazas, and Bairro Alto’s viewpoints. It’s an ideal way to introduce children to the city’s character in just an hour, leaving them excited for the rest of the trip.
3. Visit the Lisbon Zoo (Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa)
Lisbon Zoo is a delightful blend of classic charm and modern animal care. Established in 1884, it now houses over 2,000 animals, from majestic lions and towering giraffes to playful monkeys and exotic birds. The highlight for many families is the cable car, offering a bird’s-eye view over the enclosures—spotting elephants from above never fails to impress children.
The zoo is compact enough to manage in a half-day visit, with shady pathways, rest areas, and a small amusement section for younger kids. Portugal Magik can pair a zoo trip with a relaxed riverside lunch or even a short city sightseeing loop afterward, making for a well-paced day.
4. Marvel at the Pavilhão do Conhecimento – Ciência Viva (Science Museum)
This interactive science museum is a paradise for curious minds. Its hands-on exhibits invite children to experiment, build, and discover—whether they’re making giant bubbles, testing their strength in physics challenges, or programming small robots. The bilingual signage ensures that international visitors can enjoy the exhibits fully.
Younger kids have dedicated sensory spaces with soft play areas, while older ones can explore more complex scientific principles. It’s not just a rainy-day option—it’s a full immersion into learning through play, and parents often find themselves just as entertained as their children.
5. Day Trip to Sintra’s Fairy-Tale Palaces
A 30-minute drive from Lisbon, Sintra feels like stepping into a storybook. The brightly painted Pena Palace perches high above the town, while the mystical Quinta da Regaleira hides tunnels, towers, and secret gardens that spark children’s imaginations.
With Portugal Magik, a day in Sintra is planned to avoid the peak crowds and allow time for relaxed exploration. In a private Mercedes-Benz, there’s no worry about steep walks—your driver will bring you as close as possible to each site. Families often combine Sintra with a stop at the coast to see Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
6. Take a River Cruise on the Tagus
The Tagus River is Lisbon’s shimmering backdrop, and seeing the city from the water offers a fresh perspective. Families can opt for a private boat, giving kids the freedom to move around safely, snack on board, and enjoy spotting landmarks like the 25 de Abril Bridge and Cristo Rei statue.
A short cruise can be a perfect break between sightseeing stops, while a sunset sail brings a magical end to the day. Portugal Magik can arrange everything, from child-friendly life jackets to on-board refreshments.
7. Cross the River to See the Dolphins near Arrábida Natural Park
Just south of Lisbon, the Sado River estuary is home to a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins—a rare and magical sight in Europe. Portugal Magik can take your family across the river via Setúbal, where you’ll board a boat for a gentle cruise through the stunning waters near Arrábida Natural Park.
The combination of sparkling turquoise coves, lush green hills, and the thrill of spotting wild dolphins makes this an unforgettable day for children and adults alike. Our guides know the best local operators to ensure a safe, respectful, and successful sighting.
8. Visit Almourol Castle in the Middle of the River
Almourol Castle is a true fairy-tale fortress—perched on a tiny island in the middle of the Tagus River, about an hour from Lisbon. Reached only by a short boat ride, the approach alone feels like stepping into a medieval adventure.
Children will love climbing its towers and imagining knights and princesses roaming the battlements. Portugal Magik can include Almourol in a scenic day trip through central Portugal, pairing it with charming riverside villages or countryside picnics.
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9. Indulge in a Pastel de Nata Baking Class
Portugal’s beloved custard tarts are not only delicious—they’re a hands-on cultural experience. In a family-friendly baking class, children get to roll pastry, stir custard, and sprinkle cinnamon before enjoying their warm, golden creations.
These classes often include a touch of history, explaining how the recipe originated in Lisbon’s monasteries. Families leave with not just happy stomachs but also a recipe to recreate the treat back home.
Bonus Adventure #1: Dino Park at Lourinhã (1h North of Lisbon)
This open-air dinosaur park is an epic playground for prehistoric fans. Life-sized models stand among natural landscapes, and interactive stations teach about paleontology in engaging ways. A fossil dig area lets kids play “junior archaeologist” while parents enjoy the coastal scenery nearby.
Portugal Magik can combine Dino Park with stops in medieval Óbidos or the beaches of Peniche for a full-day northern adventure.
Bonus Adventure #2: Badoca Safari Park (1h South of Lisbon)
Badoca offers an African-style safari experience right here in Portugal. Open-sided vehicles take visitors through wide enclosures where giraffes, zebras, and antelopes roam. Shows and smaller animal zones keep the day varied for all ages.
It’s a perfect pairing with Portugal’s southern beaches—Portugal Magik can arrange a route that includes Badoca, Comporta’s sand dunes, and perhaps a seafood lunch by the ocean.
Why Families Choose Portugal Magik
For over 14 years, Portugal Magik Private Tours has been the go-to choice for discerning families. With a luxury Mercedes-Benz fleet, experienced English-speaking driver-guides, and fully customizable itineraries, we take care of every detail so parents can relax and children can explore safely and happily.
Client Testimonial:
“Traveling with three kids under 10 could have been chaos, but Portugal Magik made it easy. Our guide was funny, patient, and somehow always knew when the kids needed ice cream. Every day felt like an adventure, but without the stress.” – Lisa R., USA
Plan Your Family Adventure
We cover the entire country of Portugal, and most guests choose to book for several days to combine Lisbon with Sintra, Porto, the Douro Valley, and beyond. Whether you want to focus on the capital or add bonus stops like dolphin watching, Almourol Castle, or Dino Park, we’ll create a journey your family will never forget.
Book your family tour now:
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Call Our US Number: 844-923-2100
