Praça do Comércio, also known as Terreiro do Paço, is a grand, family-friendly square in Lisbon that’s perfect for parents and kids looking to soak up the city’s history and vibrant atmosphere! Once home to a royal palace until the devastating 1755 earthquake, this sprawling plaza is now a bustling hub with charming cafés, restaurants, and even a hotel, all framed by elegant yellow arcades that give it a sunny, welcoming vibe. Kids will love the wide-open space in the center, where they can run around or play tag while you admire the iconic equestrian statue of King José I—a great spot for a family photo! The square’s Triumphal Arch marks the entrance to Rua Augusta, and climbing to its viewing platform (accessible via elevator) offers stunning views of the Tagus River and the city—kids will enjoy spotting boats and the distant 25 de Abril Bridge! The waterfront at Cais das Colunas, just steps away, is a serene spot to dip your toes in the river (shallow and safe for kids) or simply relax on the marble steps while watching seagulls soar overhead. This is a low-activity experience, mostly involving walking and relaxing, with flat, open spaces that are stroller-friendly, making it ideal for families with young children. Exploring the square is free, though budget for small expenses like snacks or the arch’s viewing platform (€2.50 for adults, free for kids under 5, as of my last update in 2023).

For parents planning the visit, Praça do Comércio is easily reachable from central areas like Baixa-Chiado (a 5-minute walk) or via the Terreiro do Paço metro station, making it a convenient stop after exploring nearby Alfama or Castelo de São Jorge from your guide. The square can get busy, especially around midday, so visit early in the morning (around 9 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) to enjoy a quieter experience and avoid the heat—perfect for families with little ones. The open plaza offers little shade, so bring a hat or sunscreen to protect everyone from the sun, and pack a small snackto enjoy by the waterfront, as café prices in the square can be high (a juice or pastry might cost €3-5). To make it educational, turn the visit into a history lesson: tell your kids the square was once the king’s front door to the city, where ships arrived with treasures from around the world—point out the statue of King José I and have them imagine being royal explorers! There are clean public restrooms near the metro station, a relief for parents, and plenty of benches to take a break. For a fun activity, let the kids count the columns at Cais das Colunas (there are two!) or bring a small ball to play with in the open space—just keep an eye on them near the water’s edge. After soaking in the views, head to a nearby family-friendly café like Martinho da Arcada (one of Lisbon’s oldest, right in the square), which offers kid-friendly options like sandwiches and pastries—call ahead to reserve a table with a view of the square. Praça do Comércio is a must-visit spot that blends Lisbon’s rich history with family-friendly fun, offering a perfect place to relax, play, and make memories with your kids!