Choosing a place to live in a new city is a major decision for any family, and the quality of local schools is often the most important factor. Lisbon, a city celebrated for its historic charm and vibrant culture, is also home to a diverse range of excellent educational institutions. From prestigious international schools to highly-rated Portuguese public schools, the city offers top-tier options for families seeking the best for their children.
For parents navigating the real estate market, identifying neighborhoods that combine a high quality of life with access to great schools is essential. These areas not only provide educational excellence but also offer safe, family-friendly environments with parks, amenities, and a strong sense of community. This guide explores the Lisbon neighborhoods most sought after by families for their outstanding schools and ideal living conditions.
Avenidas Novas: Central, Convenient, and Classic
Avenidas Novas is a long-standing favorite for discerning families in Lisbon. Known for its wide, tree-lined boulevards, elegant architecture, and central location, this neighborhood offers a sophisticated urban lifestyle combined with access to some of the city’s most respected schools. It provides a perfect balance of residential tranquility and city convenience.
Educational Excellence
The primary draw for many families is the presence of several highly-regarded public and private schools. The area is home to Lycée Français Charles Lepierre, one of the most prestigious international schools in Portugal. Offering a French curriculum from preschool through high school, it is a top choice for expatriate families and locals seeking a globally recognized education.
In addition to the French school, Avenidas Novas is zoned for some of the city’s best public schools, known for their strong academic performance. The neighborhood’s central location also means that other top-tier private institutions, such as Colégio Moderno and the German School of Lisbon (Deutsche Schule Lissabon), are just a short commute away.
A Family-Friendly Urban Lifestyle
Life in Avenidas Novas is defined by convenience. The neighborhood is incredibly well-connected by public transport, with multiple metro lines and bus routes making it easy to get around the city. This accessibility is a huge plus for families with children involved in extracurricular activities across Lisbon.
The area is also rich in cultural amenities and green spaces. The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, with its world-class museum, concert halls, and serene gardens, serves as a cultural hub and a beautiful spot for a family stroll. Proximity to large parks like Parque Eduardo VII provides ample space for children to play. With its mix of elegant apartments, safety, and top-notch schools, Avenidas Novas remains a premier choice for family life in the capital.
Restelo: Suburban Serenity and Prestige
Situated in the westernmost part of Lisbon near Belém, Restelo is one of the city’s most exclusive and tranquil residential areas. Known for its spacious villas, manicured gardens, and quiet streets, it has traditionally been the neighborhood of choice for diplomats and affluent families. Its peaceful, suburban feel, combined with proximity to excellent schools, makes it highly desirable.
A Hub for International Education
Restelo is a magnet for expatriate families due to its concentration of international schools. The neighborhood is home to The International Sharing School, which offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and is known for its modern facilities and innovative teaching methods. Just a short drive away, you will find PaRK International School, another popular choice offering a bilingual education.
The proximity to these globally-minded institutions allows children to receive a world-class education while living in a calm and secure environment. This educational cluster creates a unique international community within the neighborhood.
A Peaceful and Privileged Lifestyle
Restelo offers a distinct lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. The area is characterized by low-density housing, with many properties boasting private gardens and swimming pools. Its location near the Tagus River and the expansive Monsanto Forest Park provides abundant opportunities for outdoor activities, from riverside walks to weekend picnics.
While it feels suburban, Restelo is well-connected to the city center by bus and tram. The historic attractions of Belém, including the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, are right next door. For families who value space, privacy, and access to elite international schooling, Restelo is an unmatched option.
Parque das Nações: Modern Living for Modern Families
Built to host the 1998 World Exposition (Expo ’98), Parque das Nações is Lisbon’s newest and most modern neighborhood. Located on the city’s eastern waterfront, it is defined by contemporary architecture, extensive green spaces, and a meticulously planned urban layout. This area is particularly popular with young professionals and families drawn to its modern amenities and forward-thinking design.
Focus on Contemporary Education
Parque das Nações was designed with families in mind, and its educational offerings reflect this. The neighborhood is home to some of the most modern and well-regarded schools in the city. Colégio Pedro Arrupe and Externato João XXIII are two prominent private schools known for their excellent academic programs and modern facilities.
The area’s biggest educational landmark is United Lisbon International School. Housed in a beautifully renovated historic building, this school offers an American-style curriculum from early childhood through to Grade 12, culminating in the IB Diploma. Its state-of-the-art campus and focus on technology and innovation make it a top choice for families seeking a 21st-century education.
A Lifestyle of Convenience and Recreation
Life in Parque das Nações is effortlessly convenient. The entire neighborhood is flat and pedestrian-friendly, with dedicated bike paths running along the river. The Vasco da Gama shopping center offers a huge range of shops and restaurants, while the Altice Arena hosts major concerts and events.
The area’s main attraction is its expansive waterfront park, which provides endless recreational opportunities for families. From playgrounds and gardens to the famous Lisbon Oceanarium, there is always something to do. With its modern apartments, excellent transport links (including a direct metro line to the airport), and focus on quality education, Parque das Nações represents the future of family living in Lisbon.