Lisbon with kids might not be the first place that pops into your head when you think “family-friendly New Year’s Eve,” but trust me—this city has a knack for throwing a party that balances European charm with family warmth. From firework displays over the Tagus River to kid-friendly activities tucked between pastel-painted buildings, Lisbon knows how to make the transition from one year to the next magical for the whole family.
If you’re a parent considering a New Year’s trip to Portugal’s sunniest capital, here’s your guide to making it a celebration your kids (and you!) will never forget.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click my link, but it does not change your price.
- Why Lisbon for New Year’s with Kids?
- New Year’s Eve in Lisbon: The Family-Friendly Rundown
- Where to Stay with Kids in Lisbon Over New Year’s
- Things to Do in Lisbon with Kids Over New Year’s
- New Year’s Day in Lisbon
- Food and Drink: Family-Friendly Eats
- Practical Tips for Parents
- Easy Day Trips from Lisbon for the Holiday Week
- Why I Recommend Lisbon for New Year’s with Kids
Why Lisbon for New Year’s with Kids?
Unlike many European capitals that freeze over in December, Lisbon has relatively mild winter weather. You won’t be in shorts and tank tops, but average daytime temperatures hover around 55°F (13°C). That means you can explore the city without worrying about numb little fingers and toes. The cold factor you need to consider (because I didn’t the first time) is the wind coming off the water.
And because Portugal is famously family-oriented, you’ll find kids are welcomed everywhere—from fado restaurants to public squares during big events.
Bonus: Portuguese pastries (Pastel de nata) work like magic bribes if your toddler is teetering on the edge of a meltdown.
New Year’s Eve in Lisbon: The Family-Friendly Rundown
The Fireworks at Praça do Comércio
Lisbon’s biggest public New Year’s Eve celebration is centered around Praça do Comércio, the city’s grand waterfront square. A wonderful location to gather as live music fills the air, building up to the midnight countdown and a dazzling fireworks show over the Tagus River.
Pro tip for parents: Arrive early to snag a good spot and bring snacks, warm layers, and maybe even a picnic blanket. Many families spread out on the square or along the riverfront so kids can wiggle around without bothering anyone. If your kids can’t stay up until midnight, consider doing the “early countdown” trick—celebrate with sparklers, then let them snooze in the stroller while you toast under the fireworks.
Kid-Friendly Alternatives to the Main Square
If Praça do Comércio feels overwhelming for your crew (it can get very crowded), smaller neighborhood parties are scattered across the city. The districts of Belém and Parque das Nações often host family-friendly concerts and firework displays that are less chaotic than downtown.
Or, head to one of Lisbon’s miradouros (viewpoints) like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or Miradouro de Santa Catarina. You’ll get sweeping views of the city and river fireworks with a more relaxed vibe.
Where to Stay with Kids in Lisbon Over New Year’s
Choosing the right neighborhood makes all the difference when you’re traveling with kids. Whenever I visit Lisbon, I always try to find a location that is either easy to walk around or is close to one of the many subway stations.
- Baixa/Chiado: Central, walkable, and close to all the main sights, though it may get noisy on New Year’s Eve. Perfect if you want to be in the heart of the action.
- Parque das Nações: Modern, spacious, stroller-friendly, and home to attractions like the Lisbon Oceanarium. Great for families who want easy access to entertainment without squeezing through narrow cobblestone streets.
- Belém: Slightly removed from the city center, but calmer, greener, and home to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery.
Family-friendly hotels:
- Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Family Suites – specifically designed for families with play areas, kids’ clubs, and babysitting services.
- VIP Executive Art’s Hotel in Parque das Nações – large rooms, good prices, and steps away from the Oceanarium.
- Altis Belém Hotel & Spa – luxury with river views and family rooms in the calmer Belém neighborhood.
Things to Do in Lisbon with Kids Over New Year’s
What I love about Lisbon is how much it offers in terms of history, culture, and kid-sized fun, making it a great place to balance sightseeing with playtime. Pair that along with the food and the hospitality of the people is what keeps drawing me back year after year.
Ride the Historic Trams
Kids will love climbing aboard Tram 28, the iconic yellow tram that rattles up and down Lisbon’s steep hills. For parents, it’s an easy way to see the city’s highlights without burning tiny legs on endless staircases.
Explore the Lisbon Oceanarium
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, the Lisbon Oceanarium is a showstopper for kids of all ages. Penguins, sharks, otters—it’s the perfect half-day activity, especially if you need a cozy indoor escape on a drizzly winter morning.
Visit Belém’s Monuments (and Eat All the Pastries)
Belém is home to the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While the history might go over younger kids’ heads, the wide plazas and gardens give them space to run around. Reward everyone with warm, custardy pastéis de nata at the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery (be prepared to wait in line – it is very popular).
Interactive Museums
Lisbon has several kid-friendly museums, such as:
- Pavilhão do Conhecimento (Knowledge Pavilion): A hands-on science and technology museum where kids can experiment, build, and play.
- Lisbon Story Centre: A multimedia experience that brings the city’s history to life in a way kids actually enjoy.
New Year’s Day in Lisbon
Unlike some cities where everything shuts down on January 1st, Lisbon keeps moving forward. Attractions, shops, and many restaurants stay open, though you should expect a slower start to the morning.
- Brunch in Chiado or Alfama – many cafés offer hearty breakfasts to kick off the new year.
- A Riverfront Stroll in Belém – shake off the holiday sugar with a walk along the Tagus.
- Take the Santa Justa Lift – kids love this quirky elevator that offers panoramic city views.
If you want a slower pace, hop on a ferry across the river to Cacilhas for a quieter, more local atmosphere.
Food and Drink: Family-Friendly Eats
New Year’s Eve dinner is a big deal in Lisbon. Most restaurants offer special set menus, so it’s wise to book in advance. Traditional Portuguese meals often include seafood, roasted meats, and plenty of vinho (of course).
Some good food locations to look for:
- Time Out Market: A buzzing food hall where everyone can choose their favorite dish. My daughter and I loved hopping from stall to stall and gathered a smorgasbord of delicious dishes to enjoy.
- Cantinho do Avillez: A family-welcoming spot by celebrity chef José Avillez that offers Portuguese classics with a modern twist.
- Cervejaria Ramiro: Famous seafood restaurant—messy crab legs might just entertain your little ones long enough for you to enjoy a cold beer.
And don’t forget the Portuguese tradition of eating 12 raisins at midnight—one for each stroke of the clock, representing luck for each month of the coming year. It’s a fun tradition your little ones will love.
Practical Tips for Parents
- Public Transport: Lisbon’s metro and buses are reliable, but strollers can be tricky on steep streets and narrow sidewalks (which is all of them basically lol). A lightweight, foldable stroller is your best bet, OR I recommend bringing a baby carrier instead of a stroller.
- Ear Protection: If your kids are sensitive to loud noises, bring headphones or ear defenders for fireworks.
- Late Nights: Portuguese families often keep their kids up late for celebrations, so don’t stress if your children are out past bedtime—no one will bat an eye.
- Layer Up: Even though Lisbon isn’t freezing, evenings get chilly. Hats, gloves, and a cozy blanket for stroller naps come in handy.
Easy Day Trips from Lisbon for the Holiday Week
If you’re spending more than a couple of days, use Lisbon as your base for family-friendly day trips:
- Sintra: Explore colorful castles like Pena Palace and let kids imagine they’re in a real-life fairytale. It is truly stunning, and there are fewer crowds visiting in the winter than in the summer months.
- Cascais: A seaside escape just 30 minutes by train, with wide promenades perfect for strollers.
- Óbidos: A medieval walled town that often transforms into a “Christmas Village” in December, complete with decorations, markets, and kid-friendly activities.
Why I Recommend Lisbon for New Year’s with Kids
Celebrating New Year’s in Lisbon with kids combines the best of both worlds: a lively, cultural city that knows how to party, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere where families are part of the fun. You can watch fireworks over the Tagus, feast on Portuguese delicacies, and still sneak in a castle visit or two—all without dealing with the deep freeze that hits much of Europe this time of year.
If you’re dreaming of a holiday season filled with history, food, laughter, and fireworks that light up more than just the sky, Lisbon might just be your perfect family New Year’s destination.