From New York, we were off to Portugal. When we dreamed of this year-long adventure, somehow starting in Lisbon entered my mind and never left. People would ask, “Why Portugal?” My response? “It’s just what came to me.”
Funny enough, suddenly everyone was going to Portugal! It seemed I wasn’t alone in my inspiration. The country has been buzzing with attention as a popular travel destination. In recent years, it’s become a favorite for retirees from Europe and the U.S., thanks to its affordability, safety, and stunning quality of life. For us, it felt like the perfect gateway to Europe and the ideal starting point for our journey.
In my daydreams, Portugal was all about beaches, wine, and olive oil—and it delivered. For a relatively small country (roughly the size of Indiana), Portugal offers an impressive variety of experiences and landscapes. Let me share the details of our Lisbon adventures to inspire other families traveling to this vibrant city.
Accommodations: Where to Stay
Lisbon is made up of several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. Since we were staying for a month, we opted for Odivelas, a city about 6 miles (10 km) northwest of central Lisbon. This gave us more space, outdoor areas, and a quieter pace while remaining accessible to the city via the Metro.
For families visiting for a shorter stay, staying closer to the city center might be more convenient. However, Odivelas worked well for us as a home base. After a couple of rainy days settling in, exploring local markets, and acquiring our “Navegante” Metro cards, we were ready to venture into Lisbon’s neighborhoods.
Lisbon’s Neighborhoods
Baixa
Our first stop was Baixa, Lisbon’s central district. Known for its grand plazas and elegant streets, it’s a fantastic area to explore on foot. We created our own walking tour, but there are also free tours and guided options available.
We began at Rossio Plaza, surrounded by restaurants and cafés, some dating back to the 18th century. The square’s wave-patterned pavement, originally designed in 1848, was a beautiful sight. After a traditional cod lunch at Restaurant Gelo, we headed to the Elevador de Santa Justa. This century-old lift connects Baixa with Bairro Alto and offers stunning views of the city from the top.
Next, we walked to Ribeira das Naus, a waterfront area with a small sandy spot and lively plaza filled with shops and dining options. Baixa’s vibrant energy, beautiful architecture, and central location make it an ideal base for exploring Lisbon.
Alfama
Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, was one of our favorites. This charming district is a labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful tiles, and historic landmarks. From the Santa Apolónia Metro Station, we made our way uphill to the Castelo de São Jorge. This historic castle offers breathtaking views of the city, fascinating history, and even roaming peacocks!
As we wandered back downhill, we stopped at the Santa Luzia viewpoint and Rua dos Remédios, a street lined with shops and restaurants just coming alive for the evening. The iconic Tram 28 route winds through Alfama, adding to its old-world charm. This district is a must-see for families who enjoy a mix of history and adventure.
Getting Around
Navigating Lisbon was straightforward and family-friendly.
- Metro: We relied heavily on the Metro, particularly the Pontinha station and its blue line. The Zapping Card, a prepaid card usable across various transit operators, made our journeys efficient and affordable. A single Metro trip with this card costs just €1.61 (discounted from €1.80).
- Uber: Ride-shares were readily available and convenient for short trips.
- Rental Car: For excursions to the Douro Valley, Porto, and the Algarve, we rented cars through Guerin, which we found reliable and easy to book from the Lisbon airport.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Oceanário de Lisboa: Located in Parque das Nações, this aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and a delight for children and adults alike. The surrounding area, created for the 1998 World Expo, features modern art, a shopping mall, and the Teleférico cable car, which offers scenic rides along the Tagus River. (Check out our “Tranquility Ride” video on the Frenchitivity YouTube Channel!)
- Jardim Zoológico: This zoo features a unique overhead tram ride and an engaging dolphin show. (Check out the “Ev Cam” video on the Frenchitivity YouTube Channel!)
- Time Out Market Lisboa: A bustling food hall with a variety of culinary delights.
- LX Factory: A hip area with live music, rooftop bars, and a charming bookstore.
- Tile Painting Workshop: One of our most memorable experiences was painting authentic Portuguese tiles with Marie Caroline Vidal of Azulejos Artísticos. Her passion and knowledge made this an unforgettable family activity. (We feature this experience on our YouTube Channel as well!) We booked here!
A Glimpse into History
The 1755 earthquake shaped much of Lisbon’s modern layout. Learning about this monumental event and the city’s resilient rebuilding added depth to our explorations.
Final Thoughts
Lisbon captivated us with its charm, history, and vibrant energy. Families will find no shortage of activities, from historic castles to modern attractions. Stay tuned for our adventures in Sintra, the Douro Valley, Porto, and the Algarve—each offering its own unique slice of Portugal!
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