On the eastern edge of Lisbon, the site of the 1998 world’s fair is now a modern riverside district — wide promenades, gardens, and one of the best aquariums in Europe. It is the easiest part of the city with young children.
The Oceanário
Built for Expo 98 and still outstanding — a huge central tank you circle on two levels, with sharks, rays and a sunfish, and themed habitats around it from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Book a slot online, and allow a couple of hours.
Around the park
Flat, open and stroller-friendly. A cable car runs along the river between the two towers; there is the Vasco da Gama tower and shopping centre, water gardens, and the science museum, the Pavilhão do Conhecimento, also aimed at families. The Vasco da Gama bridge — 12 km, the longest in Europe when it was built — crosses the river here.
Good to know
- About 30 to 40 minutes by car from our apartment, over the 25 de Abril bridge and round; or train to Oriente from central Lisbon
- The Oceanário is busiest at weekends and in the school holidays — a morning slot is calmest
- Oriente station itself, by Calatrava, is worth a look
- Combine the Oceanário and the science museum on one visit