Lisbon at Christmas? Absolutely. A thousand times yes.
With a little one and a stroller? Well, that’s a different story…
The City of Seven Hills
Lisbon’s historic center is built on seven hills – São Jorge, Estrela, Santa Catarina, São Pedro de Alcântara, Graça, Senhora do Monte, and Penha de França.
It’s a stunning setting, but it also means a maze of narrow, cobbled, and often very steep streets, sometimes completely inaccessible by car… and definitely not stroller-friendly. In other words, getting around with a toddler requires strong legs and plenty of patience.
Where to Stay in Lisbon with a Child
With a child, your best bet is to stay central. The Restauradores neighborhood is ideal: think Lisbon’s version of the Champs-Élysées, but with hills.
We chose the BessaHotel Liberdade, which ticks all the important boxes: a strategic location, comfortable rooms, and – best of all – a heated indoor pool. A real bonus when night falls around 5 p.m. and the air gets chilly.
From the hotel, head down to the Tagus River, strolling through beautifully decorated Christmas streets. Special mention for the holiday lights: understated, elegant, and really well done.
🔗 Neighborhood: Avenida da Liberdade
What to Do in Lisbon at Christmas
Wandering is the top activity. Get lost in the decorated streets, look up, take your time. Lisbon is meant to be savored slowly. You can’t miss the Christmas tree in Commerce Square – the tallest in Europe!
You also can’t ignore Fernando Pessoa, a true icon of the city. If you’ve never read him, now’s the perfect time to pick up one of his works at the world’s oldest bookstore still in operation, Livraria Bertrand.
🔗 Pessoa: Casa Fernando Pessoa
Lisbon was also crowned “Best Street Art City in the World” by The Guardian. Art is everywhere, especially the works of Bordalo II, which are instantly recognizable.
As for museums, keep accessibility in mind. We tried the Lisboa Story Centre, very central, affordable (about €7), and well done overall. The immersive experience about the 1755 earthquake is impressive… but might be a bit too intense for some children – it really shakes things up!
Other gentler options:
• A cruise on the Tagus – perfect with a child
• The Fado Museum, accessible, quiet, and has an elevator (about €5)
Tuk-tuks are tempting, but pricey and a bit sporty given the slopes. Use with caution. Same goes for the tram, especially after a recent accident.
Where to Eat in Lisbon
For a tasty break:
• A Campesina: a typical café for hot chocolate and pastel de nata (about €6)
• Pastelaria Benard: a Chiado institution since 1868, perfect for homemade pastries in a historic setting
🔗 Benard
If you want to eat at any hour, head to lively Rua Augusta.
Special mention for Fish Bar Bastardo, where you can admire a Bordalo II piece while enjoying fresh seafood.
And if the weather’s nice, nothing beats a drink – maybe a piña colada – on the banks of the Tagus. Pure holiday vibes, especially at sunset.
In Summary
Lisbon at Christmas is a fantastic idea to enjoy a bright, festive city with milder weather.
But with a young child, it’s best to be well-organized, travel light, and be ready to walk a lot. Lisbon takes some effort… and that’s also what makes it so special.
*Music : Terra Firme de Benjamim*
This is a translation from this original French article.