PRÍNCIPE REAL TRAVEL GUIDE

ABOUT THE LOCATION

Príncipe Real is one of the most cosmopolitan areas of Lisbon, known for its wealth of elegant mansions, museums, shops, and vibrant bars and restaurants. It is also an idyllic residential neighbourhood with many modern properties for sale in Príncipe Real.

Considered one of the preferred addresses of young Portuguese locals and international investors, Príncipe Real slopes upwards from one of the city’s best viewpoints, set on the pinnacle of one of Lisbon’s seven hills where Chiado, Estrela, Avenida da Liberdade and Largo do Rato meet.

INVESTMENT POTENTIAL

Príncipe Real is a neighbourhood loved by locals, Portuguese and expats. It has fewer visitors than other neighbourhoods and lower prices, resulting in high demand and good potential for capital gain. As an important commercial destination, the neighbourhood has many conceptual stores, small art galleries, good restaurants, bars and antique stores.

The day-to-day life in the neighbourhood has its own rhythm resulting in a gentle mix of the traditional and the contemporary creating a charming personality. Buying a property for sale in Príncipe Real is a perfect investment for families wanting to live peacefully in the centre of Lisbon or investors wanting a safe capital investment.

CENTRAL & COSMOPOLITAN

ADVISERS’ OPINION

Investment and residential growth in Príncipe Real are on the rise, transforming the neighbourhood into one of Lisbon’s more sought after locations.

WHY TO BUY

Calm yet central bairro
Good for shopping & dining
Home to several beautiful green spaces
Lots of historic architecture
Well-connected via public transport

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

The area to see and to be seen
Near excellent international school
Metro station: Rato
Bus & tram links
Short walk from Ave. da Liberdade

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

Príncipe Real has undergone significant infrastructure development in recent years to improve the quality of life for its residents and visitors. One of the major projects was the renovation of Praça do Príncipe Real, its central square, which involved the installation of new pavement, lighting, and benches, as well as a large fountain.

The Glória Funicular, connecting the neighborhood to the downtown Baixa district, also underwent a major renovation for safety and reliability.

Public transportation in the area has also been enhanced with several bus and tram lines, including the popular 28 tram, and the nearby Rato Metro station providing easy access to other parts of the city.

HISTORY

Initially known as Alto da Cotovia, the area was a sparsely populated hillside on the outskirts of Lisbon. In the 1850s the area was acquired by the Duke of Terceira, who transformed it into a residential neighbourhood for the city's wealthy elite. Under the Duke's guidance, the area was laid out with wide, tree-lined boulevards and grand mansions.

In the early 20th century, Príncipe Real continued to be a fashionable residential neighborhood, with many of its grand mansions converted into embassies and diplomatic residences.

In the latter half of the 20th century, following a slight downturn, Príncipe Real saw a revival as artists and bohemians began to move into the area, attracted by its beautiful architecture and central location. Today, the neighbourhood is a vibrant mix of historic buildings, trendy shops, and bustling cafes, making it one of Lisbon's most popular destinations for locals and tourists alike.

THE AREA TODAY

The São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint is always a good choice to visit, any time of the day. It is where artisanal market stalls selling fresh lemonade draw young families, while residents soak up the views in the shade of the olive trees. Stroll around the neighbourhood to enjoy tranquil locations such as Praça das Flores or Jardim do Príncipe Real, with shaded benches under a vast and dense cedar, and the beautiful Lisbon Botanical Garden.

The neighbourhood also has many small art galleries, antique stores and voguish restaurants such as the Memmo Hotel Restaurant, Jardim dos Sentidos, Yakuza, and the panoramic Lost In. Make sure also to have original Portuguese food at Pica-Pau or Faz Frio, fresh seafood at A Cevicheria, tapas at Tapisco, a casual wine-tasting experience at Black Sheep and an eccentric experience at Pavilhão Chinês. Recently, a crumbling 1877 mansion on Praça do Príncipe Real was reborn as, Embaixada, turning the new Arabian Palace into one of the most iconic buildings and home to a series of national brands and artists focused on Portuguese design, craftsmanship, fashion, gastronomy and culture.