Best Neighborhoods for Families in Lisbon
Summary: If you're moving to Lisbon with kids, here are some of the best neighborhoods in Lisbon for families.
Lisbon's vibrant capital, offers a wide range of neighborhoods suitable for families. Each has its unique charm, offering a blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Here are eight of the best neighborhoods for families to live in Lisbon.
Cais do Sodre
Cais do Sodre is an excellent choice for families due to its central location and recent rejuvenation. Families can enjoy leisure time along the riverfront, visiting the Mercado da Ribeira for various food options, or exploring the nearby Time Out Market. The neighborhood is home to several playgrounds and is close to the popular Jardim da Estrela park. The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga offers cultural experiences for the whole family.
Location: Central Lisbon, along the Tagus River.
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,500 EUR, 3-bedroom around 2,000 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 450,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 600,000 EUR.
International Schools: The British School of Lisbon (ages 3-18, British curriculum) is nearby.
Where to Eat: Time Out Market offers a variety of dining options. For a traditional Portuguese experience, try Espaco Espelho d'Agua.
Interesting History: The area was once a bustling port and has since been revitalized into a trendy district.
Parks: Jardim da Estrela is a large, popular park nearby with playgrounds and a duck pond.
Chiado
Chiado is a charming and historic neighborhood perfect for families who enjoy cultural activities. There are several museums, theaters, and historic sites. Families can relax in the nearby parks, such as Jardim de Sao Pedro de Alcantara. The area is also known for its excellent shopping and dining options.
Location: Central Lisbon, between Bairro Alto and Baixa.
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,800 EUR, 3-bedroom around 2,500 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 550,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 750,000 EUR.
International Schools: The Lycee Francais Charles Lepierre (ages 3-18, French curriculum) is nearby.
Where to Eat: Belcanto offers a unique dining experience, while A Brasileira is a historic cafe.
Interesting History: Chiado was severely damaged in a fire in 1988 but has since been restored to its former glory.
Parks: Jardim de Sao Pedro de Alcantara offers beautiful views of the city.
Estrela
Estrela is a peaceful and family-friendly neighborhood known for its beautiful park, Jardim da Estrela. Families can enjoy picnics, playgrounds, and various cultural events. The neighborhood is also home to several excellent schools and sports facilities. The Basilica da Estrela is a notable landmark in the area.
Location: Central Lisbon, west of Chiado.
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,300 EUR, 3-bedroom around 1,800 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 400,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 550,000 EUR.
International Schools: The International Preparatory School (ages 3-11, British curriculum) is located here.
Where to Eat: Estrela da Bica offers traditional Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist.
Interesting History: The Basilica da Estrela is a striking 18th-century church with a notable nativity scene.
Parks: Jardim da Estrela is one of Lisbon's most beautiful parks, with playgrounds and a duck pond.
Lapa
Lapa is an upscale and quiet residential neighborhood, ideal for families seeking a peaceful environment. The area is home to several embassies and offers a variety of international schools. Families can enjoy leisure time in the nearby parks, such as Jardim da Estrela and Jardim 9 de Abril. The National Museum of Ancient Art is also nearby.
Location: Central Lisbon, west of Cais do Sodre.
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,600 EUR, 3-bedroom around 2,200 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 500,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 700,000 EUR.
International Schools: The International Preparatory School and The British School of Lisbon are nearby.
Where to Eat: O Talho offers a unique dining experience in a former butcher's shop.
Interesting History: Lapa was once a favored area for the nobility and wealthy merchants.
Parks: Jardim da Estrela and Jardim 9 de Abril are both nearby, offering plenty of green space.
Principe Real
Principe Real is a trendy and vibrant neighborhood, popular with families due to its beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and various cultural attractions. The area is home to several museums, art galleries, and the Botanical Garden of Lisbon. Principe Real is also known for its excellent shopping and dining options, as well as its lively markets.
Location: Central Lisbon, north of Bairro Alto.
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,700 EUR, 3-bedroom around 2,400 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 500,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 700,000 EUR.
International Schools: The Lycee Francais Charles Lepierre is nearby.
Where to Eat: Atelier Real offers a unique dining experience in a former chapel.
Interesting History: The neighborhood is named after Queen Maria II's firstborn son, who was born in 1845.
Parks: Jardim do Principe Real is a beautiful park with a playground and cafe.
Restelo
Restelo is a family-friendly neighborhood known for its excellent schools and sports facilities. The area is home to several parks, including the popular Parque Florestal de Monsanto. Families can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking. Restelo is also close to the Belém district, offering easy access to cultural attractions.
Location: Western Lisbon, near Belem.
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,200 EUR, 3-bedroom around 1,700 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 350,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 500,000 EUR.
International Schools: St. Julian's School (ages 3-18, British curriculum) is nearby.
Where to Eat: Restaurante Solar do Bairro offers traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Interesting History: The area was once a separate village before being integrated into Lisbon.
Parks: Parque Florestal de Monsanto is a large forested park with various recreational facilities.
Saldanha
Saldanha is a modern and bustling neighborhood, popular with families due to its excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The area is home to several parks, including the beautiful Parque Eduardo VII. Families can enjoy various cultural attractions, such as the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. Saldanha is also well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore the rest of the city.
Location: Central Lisbon, north of Avenida da Liberdade.
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,500 EUR, 3-bedroom around 2,100 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 450,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 650,000 EUR.
International Schools: The Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (ages 3-18, American curriculum) is nearby.
Where to Eat: A Pastorinha offers traditional Portuguese cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Interesting History: The neighborhood is named after the 19th-century Portuguese statesman Joao Carlos de Saldanha Oliveira e Daun.
Parks: Parque Eduardo VII is a large, beautifully landscaped park with stunning city views.
Campo de Ourique
Campo de Ourique is a charming and traditional neighborhood, known for its strong sense of community and excellent quality of life. The area is home to several parks, playgrounds, and various cultural attractions. Families can enjoy leisure time at the popular Jardim da Parada, which hosts regular events and activities. Campo de Ourique is also known for its excellent local shopping and dining options.
Location: Central Lisbon, west of Estrela.
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,300 EUR, 3-bedroom around 1,800 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 400,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 550,000 EUR.
International Schools: The International Preparatory School is nearby.
Where to Eat: Cervejaria Ramiro offers a unique dining experience with a focus on seafood.
Interesting History: The neighborhood was once a rural area before being integrated into Lisbon in the 19th century.
Parks: Jardim da Parada is a popular park with a playground, cafe, and regular events.
Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, making them excellent choices for families living in Lisbon.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Lisbon
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Lisbon
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Lisbon
- Best Bookstores and Libraries in Lisbon
- Public Transportation in Lisbon
- Best Markets in Lisbon
- Retire in Lisbon Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Lisbon
- Pros & Cons of Living in Lisbon
- Tips for Expats Driving in Lisbon
- Cost of Living in Lisbon
- Health Care in Lisbon
- The Essential Guide to Lisbon
- Lisbon, Portugal
- 5 Tips for Living in Lisbon, Portugal
- 13 Best Neighborhoods in Lisbon - 2026 Update
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Portugal
- Best Places to Live in Portugal
- Real Estate in Portugal
- 5 Best Places to Retire in Portugal
- What It's Like Living in Lisbon
- Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Portugal
- More Advice about Retiring in Portugal


