A 3-day trip to Lisbon with kids can be filled with exploration, history, and fun activities that the whole family will enjoy. Here’s a family-friendly itinerary:

Day 1: Exploring Lisbon’s Historic Center

Morning:

• Praça do Comércio and Baixa District: Start your day at the grand Praça do Comércio, an open square by the Tagus River. From here, explore the Baixa district with its pedestrian-friendly streets, and enjoy some street performances or grab a snack at a café.
• Elevador de Santa Justa: Take a ride on this historic elevator, which offers fantastic views over the city. The elevator itself is a fun experience for kids, and they’ll love the panoramic view from the top.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Chiado: Head to the Chiado district for lunch. This area has a variety of family-friendly restaurants offering Portuguese cuisine.
• Lisbon Story Centre: After lunch, visit the Lisbon Story Centre at Praça do Comércio, an interactive museum that takes you through the history of Lisbon. It’s engaging for kids with its multimedia displays.
• Castelo de São Jorge: Head up to São Jorge Castle. The castle is fascinating to explore, with its towers, walls, and beautiful views over Lisbon. There are peacocks roaming the grounds, which children often enjoy spotting.

Evening:

• Alfama District: In the evening, wander through the Alfama district’s narrow streets, known for their charm and historic character. You can enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, perhaps with a Fado performance, although be mindful of the showtimes if your kids have an early bedtime.

Day 2: Parks, Oceanarium, and Waterfront

Morning:

• Parque das Nações and Lisbon Oceanarium: Start the day at Parque das Nações, a modern area with lots of attractions for kids. Visit the Lisbon Oceanarium, one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in Europe. The displays of marine life are mesmerizing for children and adults alike.

Afternoon:

• Lunch by the River: Have lunch at one of the restaurants in Parque das Nações, with options for riverside dining.
• Pavilhão do Conhecimento (Science Museum): After lunch, visit the nearby Pavilhão do Conhecimento, an interactive science museum where kids can engage in hands-on activities and learn through play.

Evening:

• Cable Car Ride: Take a ride on the Telecabine Lisboa, a cable car that runs along the riverfront. The ride offers great views of the park and the river, and it’s a fun experience for kids.
• Dinner at the Waterfront: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the Parque das Nações area. You might also find ice cream shops or dessert cafes to treat the kids afterward.

Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra

Morning:

• Sintra Exploration: Take a short train ride from Lisbon to Sintra, a town known for its fairy-tale palaces and lush landscapes. Start your visit at the Pena Palace, a colorful and whimsical palace that kids will love exploring, with its towers, terraces, and beautiful gardens.
• Quinta da Regaleira: Next, visit Quinta da Regaleira, a mystical estate with hidden tunnels, grottoes, and a labyrinth-like garden. The famous Initiation Well is sure to intrigue the kids as they descend its spiral staircase.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Sintra: Enjoy lunch at a café or restaurant in Sintra’s town center, where you can taste local pastries like “travesseiros” and “queijadas.”
• National Palace of Sintra: Visit the National Palace of Sintra, known for its distinctive twin chimneys and beautifully decorated rooms. The palace is relatively compact and easy to navigate with children.

Evening:

• Return to Lisbon: Head back to Lisbon in the late afternoon.
• Dinner and Relaxation: For your final evening, have dinner at a restaurant near your accommodation. Consider taking a relaxed evening stroll through a nearby park or along the river to wind down.

Tips for Traveling with Kids:

• Public Transport: Lisbon’s trams and buses are convenient, but can be crowded. Consider using taxis or rideshare services if traveling with younger children.
• Comfortable Shoes: Lisbon is known for its hilly terrain and cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes are a must for everyone.
• Snack and Breaks: Carry snacks and water, and plan for regular breaks, especially on days with lots of walking.
• Kid-Friendly Meals: Portuguese cuisine is generally kid-friendly, with plenty of grilled meats, seafood, and pastries that children enjoy.

This itinerary offers a balance of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and plenty of fun, ensuring that both parents and children have a memorable time in Lisbon.