Discovering Lisbon: Gardens, Markets, and Playgrounds Off the Tourist Path
Lisbon has a way of surprising you. Even on a day with a decent chance of spotty showers and gusty winds, we found ourselves weaving through lush gardens, vibrant neighborhoods, and lively local markets—proving that the city’s charm shines through no matter the forecast. Here is a three neighborhood itinerary for discovering Lisbon with a family-friendly day exploring botanical gardens, playgrounds, and local market finds.
Parque Eduardo VII
Our day began at Parque Eduardo VII, a sprawling urban park perched on a hilltop with panoramic views stretching down to the river and out toward the Atlantic. Despite the brisk wind tugging at our jackets, the wide, symmetrical lawns and carefully manicured hedges were stunning. At the park’s northern end, we stepped into a hidden gem: Estufa Fria.
Estufa Fria
This massive greenhouse and botanical garden felt like entering a different world. Sheltered from the wind, we meandered through a labyrinth of tropical and subtropical plants, rock-lined paths, koi ponds, waterfalls, and wooden bridges. The kids loved darting around the shaded corners and discovering new plant species tucked into the landscape. Divided into three areas Estufa Fria is not only visually stunning but also incredibly peaceful, with enough mystery and beauty to spark the imagination of all ages.
Lunch: A Little Something For Everyone
With our stomachs rumbling, we headed to Madame Restaurant Lisboa, a chic yet casual eatery near the park. It struck the perfect balance between adult-worthy ambiance and kid-friendly options. The pizza was a hit with the kids, and my steak was rich, flavorful, and expertly grilled. It was a cozy and satisfying meal—especially comforting with the occasional rain passing through.
Campo de Ourique
From there, to preserve the kids energy we jumped on a bus toward Campo de Ourique, one of Lisbon’s most authentic neighborhoods, full of character and local life. Our first stop was the Mercado de Campo de Ourique, a vibrant indoor market buzzing with energy. While I browsed, the kids made use of the small indoor playground, freeing up a few precious moments to soak in the scene. The seafood selection here was hands down one of the best we’ve seen in Portugal—absolutely pristine and beautifully displayed. We couldn’t resist picking up a whole turbot and some tiger prawns to grill later that evening.
- Savour at Home: Check out this Grilled Turbot Portuguese Style Recipe
Just a short walk away, we arrived at Jardim da Parada, a neighborhood park surrounded by cafés and pastel-colored buildings. The playground was alive with the sounds of kids playing and spring in the air. Our little ones quickly joined in on the fun.
Estrela
To wrap up the afternoon, we made our way to one of Lisbon’s crown jewels—Jardim da Estrela. Across from the grand Basílica da Estrela, this expansive park is a feast for the senses: winding gravel paths, cast-iron gazebos, duck ponds, and towering palm trees. The larger playground here was a clear favorite for the kids, filled with slides, climbing structures, and plenty of space to run free. While the kids played I sat at the kiosk beside the playground, taking a moment relax and watch them play under the swaying trees.
Final Thoughts
Lisbon may be known for its historic trams and iconic viewpoints, but this day reminded us of the quieter pleasures—green spaces to explore, neighborhoods to wander, and local flavors to bring home. Rain or shine, Eduardo VII Park, Campo de Ourique, and Estrela offer the perfect blend of discovery and downtime for families exploring the heart of the city.
