Do you fancy a relaxed family vacation in Portugal? Do not look further and head to Lisbon, a fine European ‘hideaway’ filled with a wide range of outdoor pursuits, green spaces, gorgeous sandy beaches fringed by swaying tall palms, interesting parks and museums, and this is just the beginning. Perched on the coast of Portugal, Lisbon is a city with something for everyone and it’s no wonder that many of the city’s attractions are of aquatic variety. Lisbon is also where visitors will find the lowest prices in Western Europe.
Lisbon has a great natural environment for families with kids on vacation, including Guincho Beach, Monsanto Forest Park that are considered the ‘lungs of the city’ thanks to the good air quality, as well as such interesting places as Lisbon Zoo, public gardens and historic botanical gardens.
Jardim Zoologico (Lisbon Zoo)
A fine place to visit in a sunny day, Jardim Zoologico is ideally nestled in the center of Lisbon and boasts one of the best collections of animals throughout the world. Established in 1884, the zoo has gained a reputation of being one of the world’s most respected theme parks with more than two thousand animals distributed in 346 species. The zoo houses special areas, including the Reptile House, where visitors will find all kinds of snakes, as well as turtles and hues of exotic fish; the Children Farm home to animals usually seen on farms; the Rainbow Park – a playground for children open on weekends and holidays and the Animax, found at the entrance of the zoo with its range of equipment for entertainment, shops and restaurants.
There are also a number of aquatic species that delight both young and old, from the sea lions to amazing dolphins. Those who want to have a bird’s eye view of the animals, can take the cable car that passes around the entire zoo. The zoo is open 365 days a year, offering visitors access to the park and all attractions with only one ticket. Lisbon Zoo is a place that definitely speaks of how the city values nature and life.
Oceanarium
Located in the Parque das Nações, Lisbon Oceanarium is another great family getaway and a true marvel of engineering in Lisbon that is considered one of the world’s largest aquariums, built as part of Nations Park for the 1998 Expo. Designed by American architect Peter Chermayeff and dedicated entirely to oceans and their preservation, Oceanarium boasts some 15,000 plants and animals (in over 450 different species), including sharks, penguins, fish and even two wonderful sea otters, Eusébio and Amália! The main highlight for most of the visitors is its large central tank teeming with marine life.
Beaches
With around six hundred miles of coast, much of which is sandy beach, Portugal is a beach-lover’s paradise and the city of Lisbon is no exception. Lisbon Beach is sure to offer fun for everyone, promising memories and many unforgettable moments. From surfing the waves off Guincho Beach to partying at beach bars along the Costa da Caparica to playing beach games or lazing on sugary sands at Adraga Beach, you will have the best family experience. Not-to-be-missed are Carcavelos, Lagoa De Albufeira, Praia Grande and Tamariz Beach.
