The 10 Best Parks for Kids in Lisbon: 2026 Guide
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Lisbon is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine a year, and yet it can be surprisingly tricky to figure out where to actually take the kids on a Saturday morning. Shopping centres are tempting, screens are easy, but nothing beats a proper afternoon outdoors — running, climbing, discovering, and coming home happily exhausted.
The good news is that Lisbon and its surroundings are packed with outstanding parks and green spaces for families. From historic gardens in the city centre to sprawling urban parks on the outskirts, there is something for every age and every energy level. Here are our top 10 picks for 2026.
1. Parque Eduardo VII
Lisbon's most iconic park stretches from Marquês de Pombal up to a hilltop with sweeping views over the city and the Tagus River. The recently renovated playground on the western side features slides, swings and climbing structures designed for different age groups. The wide pathways are perfect for scooters and balance bikes.
Best for: Families who want to mix a city stroll with outdoor play.
Top tip: Don't skip the Estufa Fria (Cold Greenhouse) — the winding paths through exotic plants feel like a jungle expedition, and kids love it.
2. Jardim da Estrela
One of Lisbon's most beloved gardens, Jardim da Estrela is a genuine oasis in the heart of the city. The duck pond is an instant hit with toddlers, and the fenced playground provides both safety and variety. Centuries-old trees offer generous shade, making this a reliable option even on the hottest summer days.
Best for: Relaxed mornings or afternoons with children aged 2 to 8.
Top tip: Weekend activity sessions are often organised for free by the local parish. Check their social media for schedules.
3. Parque da Bela Vista
At 80 hectares, this is one of Lisbon's largest urban parks. The vast lawns are ideal for football, frisbee, kite-flying or simply sprawling out on a picnic blanket. The playground area is extensive and varied, with equipment for toddlers through to pre-teens, including a fitness circuit that older kids enjoy.
Best for: Families who need space — for bikes, scooters, or just letting kids run without boundaries.
Top tip: Bring bicycles or roller skates. The paved paths are wide, flat and safe for beginners.
4. Jardim do Campo Grande
Recently refurbished, this garden combines manicured green spaces with a lake where you can rent rowing boats — an adventure that kids aged 5 to 12 absolutely love. The playground has been updated with modern equipment and safety surfacing.
Best for: A complete weekend outing with a picnic and a boat ride.
Top tip: Arrive early on weekends to grab a good spot near the lake. The boat queue tends to build from 11 a.m. onwards.
5. Parque dos Poetas (Oeiras)
Technically just outside Lisbon's city limits, this park in Oeiras more than earns its place on the list. Spread across themed gardens dedicated to Portuguese poets, it boasts one of the best playgrounds in the Lisbon metropolitan area — with large-scale climbing structures, zip lines and equipment accessible to children with reduced mobility.
Best for: Weekend excursions with kids of all ages.
Top tip: Pair the visit with lunch in central Oeiras, just a few minutes' walk away.
6. Parque Urbano da Quinta das Conchas
This park in northern Lisbon is a pleasant surprise for many visitors. With two lakes, a small educational farm and well-equipped playgrounds, it offers a complete day out without leaving the city. Spacious lawns and mature trees make it an excellent picnic destination.
Best for: Families with children aged 3 to 10 who want variety in a single location.
Top tip: The small farm with rabbits, chickens and goats is always a winner with younger children.
7. Jardim da Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian
One of the most beautiful green spaces in Lisbon, the Gulbenkian gardens are a haven of calm. While there is no traditional playground, the outdoor amphitheatre, winding paths through dense vegetation and the fish pond offer a rich sensory experience for curious children. It is also a gentle introduction to cultural spaces.
Best for: Calm outings with nature-loving children. Perfect when combined with a museum visit.
Top tip: The Centro de Arte Moderna regularly hosts children's workshops at weekends — check their programme online.
8. Parque Florestal de Monsanto
Lisbon's green lung is far more than just a forest. The Parque Recreativo do Alto da Serafina is the go-to spot for families, with an excellent playground, covered picnic areas and accessible walking trails. The Espaço Monsanto visitor centre also offers a library and environmental education activities.
Best for: Adventurous families who want to feel like they have left the city without actually leaving it.
Top tip: Try the signposted trails — there are short loops (1-2 km) that are perfectly manageable for children aged 5 and up.
9. Jardim Botânico de Lisboa
A journey around the world through plants. The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon is an extraordinary educational space for school-age children. The greenhouses, the paths winding between exotic trees and the hidden corners turn every visit into a proper scientific expedition.
Best for: Children aged 6 to 12 with an interest in nature and science.
Top tip: Download the garden guide before your visit and organise a "botanical treasure hunt" — tasking kids with finding specific species makes the outing far more engaging.
10. Parque da Paz (Almada)
On the south bank of the Tagus, Parque da Paz is one of the best-maintained green spaces in the Lisbon area. Spanning 60 hectares, it features lakes, themed gardens, modern playgrounds and walking trails. The ferry crossing to Cacilhas is itself an adventure that children thoroughly enjoy.
Best for: A different kind of day out that combines a boat trip with outdoor exploration.
Top tip: Take the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas, then bus 101 to the park. The journey is half the fun.
Safety Tips for Parks with Kids
Whichever park you choose, a few simple precautions go a long way:
- Active supervision: Stay present and attentive, especially near water features and tall climbing equipment.
- Sun protection: Apply sunscreen and bring hats, even on overcast days — UV radiation in Lisbon can be surprisingly strong.
- Proper footwear: Closed-toe trainers are always the safest choice for playground play.
- Meeting point: Agree on a meeting spot with older children in case you get separated.
- ID bracelet: For younger kids, a simple wristband with a parent's name and phone number is an easy precaution.
What to Bring: Park Day Checklist
- Water bottle (at least 500 ml per child)
- Snacks and fruit
- Sunscreen and hats
- Change of clothes (for younger children)
- Picnic blanket or towel
- Ball, frisbee or outdoor toys
- Wet wipes
- Rubbish bag
Seasonal Considerations
Spring (March-May): The best season. Mild temperatures, gardens in bloom and long daylight hours. Ideal for picnics.
Summer (June-August): Avoid peak heat (12 p.m. to 4 p.m.). Favour shady parks like Jardim da Estrela or Monsanto. Always bring extra water.
Autumn (September-November): Excellent for forest parks like Monsanto. The changing leaf colours make walks especially beautiful.
Winter (December-February): Choose sunny days and opt for parks near covered areas or cafes. The Gulbenkian gardens, with the museum next door, are an ideal winter choice.
Discover More Outdoor Activities on KidsToGo
Parks are just the starting point. If you are looking for organised outdoor activities for children — from sports to adventure and nature programmes — KidsToGo has hundreds of options in Lisbon and beyond. Filter by age, location and activity type to find the perfect plan for your next weekend.
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