Index
- 1. Living in Principe Real
- 2. Public Transport in Príncipe Real
- 3. Services in Príncipe Real
- 3.1 Everyday shopping
- 3.2 Health and wellness
- 3.3 Schools and libraries
- 3.4 Cultural centers
- 3.5 Public services
- 4. Having fun in Príncipe Real
- 4.1 What to do in Príncipe Real?
- 4.2 Eating out
- 4.3 Parks and green areas
- 4.4 Cultural activities
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Príncipe Real is one of Lisbon’s most charismatic neighborhoods. With a history dating back to the 19th century, its name pays homage to the heir to the Portuguese crown. Originally an area of gardens and mansions for Lisbon's high society, the district still maintains that noble and refined atmosphere today. The streets are lined with pastel-colored mansions, neoclassical architecture, and charming squares that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Its location, between Chiado and Bairro Alto, and its proximity to the Tagus River give Príncipe Real a privileged position, blending history with modernity and making it a meeting point between tradition and cosmopolitan life.
Living in Principe Real
Living in Príncipe Real means enjoying a relaxed and bohemian atmosphere, surrounded by gardens, exclusive shops, cafés, and restaurants serving international and Portuguese cuisine. It’s a peaceful area, ideal for both young professionals and families looking for a calmer lifestyle without being too far from the city's hustle and bustle. On Sundays, the neighborhood comes alive with markets featuring organic products and antiques, and its multicultural and welcoming atmosphere makes it attractive to both locals and expats.
Public Transport in Príncipe Real
Príncipe Real is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore Lisbon. The neighborhood is served by several bus lines that provide convenient access to other parts of the city. The nearby Avenida da Liberdade and Baixa areas offer additional transport links, including metro stations such as Avenida (Blue Line) and Restauradores (Blue and Green Lines). For those who prefer trams, the iconic 28 tram passes nearby, offering a scenic route through the city's historic districts. With its central location and various public transport options, getting around Príncipe Real and Lisbon is simple and efficient.
Metro: the Lisbon metro has 4 lines, distinguished by their colors, and connects the main areas of the modern city center. However, this means of transport does not reach well-known areas such as Alfama or Bélem. To reach them it will be necessary to use the streetcar, which has been relegated to a more tourist use.
Bus: buses are the complementary means of transport to reach the areas of Lisbon not served by the metro. Lisbon has 142 bus lines and a single ticket costs 1,85€. All bus lines operate from 06:00 to 00:30, approximately, although there are night buses with a much lower frequency.
Cercanías train: this means of transport reaches the farthest areas of the city, such as Sintra or Cascais. It is the perfect option if you want to visit a nearby town and discover the surroundings of Lisbon. The most important train station in the city is Oriente Station, through which pass the green and red lines of the suburban train and from where other long distance trains depart to different parts of the country.
Services in Príncipe Real
Príncipe Real stands out for the wide range of services it offers, making it an especially convenient neighborhood to live in. In and around the area, you can find everything from basic services, such as banks, pharmacies, and convenience stores, to health centers, gyms, and all kinds of specialized shops. The variety is so extensive that residents can easily access everything they need in their daily lives without leaving the neighborhood.
These are some of the most outstanding services offered in the Principe Real neighborhood:
Everyday shopping
For daily shopping, Príncipe Real has several supermarkets, such as Pingo Doce and Minipreço, which offer fresh, quality products. Additionally, the Mercado de Príncipe Real, open on specific days of the week, offers local, organic, and gourmet products, making it an ideal option for those looking for fresh and sustainably sourced food. These venues provide a complete shopping experience, from basic products to gourmet specialties.
Health and wellness
Access to healthcare services is very convenient in Príncipe Real, as private hospitals like Hospital da Luz Lisboa are nearby, covering a wide range of medical needs. There are also several private clinics and wellness centers that offer services like physiotherapy, dental care, and specialist consultations.
Schools and libraries
Príncipe Real has several educational options, including both public and private schools that offer quality education for all ages. Additionally, the neighborhood is home to the Camões Library, which provides a space for study, reading, and cultural activities, serving as a meeting point for students and book lovers.
Cultural centers
Culture is a fundamental part of Príncipe Real, with cultural centers organizing exhibitions, talks, and workshops throughout the year. Spaces like Casa do Príncipe Real, a center dedicated to preserving and promoting the area’s cultural heritage, are particularly noteworthy. Artistic events and activities are also organized, offering residents and visitors a range of options to enrich their cultural lives.
Public services
This neighborhood houses several public buildings and diplomatic representations, such as embassies and consulates, as well as Lisbon City Hall offices and other administrative services. The presence of these facilities makes it easier for residents, both locals and foreigners, to manage their paperwork and documentation.
Having fun in Príncipe Real
What to do in Príncipe Real?
Príncipe Real is a perfect place to enjoy leisure time. Its terraces and viewpoints offer beautiful views of Lisbon, especially at sunset, like at the rooftop of the Hotel Memmo Príncipe Real. It’s common to find live musicians and social events in several venues, providing a relaxed environment for those seeking entertainment without leaving the neighborhood.
Eating out
The culinary scene in Príncipe Real is extensive and of high quality, with restaurants ranging from Portuguese cuisine to renowned international options. Some of the most popular spots include A Cevicheria, specializing in Peruvian cuisine, and Café de São Bento, known for its traditional dishes. Príncipe Real is a culinary paradise for those looking for authentic and top-notch dining experiences.
Parks and green areas
One of the most iconic green spaces is Jardim do Príncipe Real, a cozy park with large trees, rest areas, and a central fountain, making it ideal for relaxing, picnicking, or taking a stroll. This park also hosts occasional events, like craft markets and outdoor activities, and is the neighborhood’s green lung where the community gathers to enjoy nature.
Cultural activities
Príncipe Real offers an impressive range of cultural activities. Art lovers can explore Galeria São Mamede, a renowned gallery showcasing contemporary Portuguese artists, or Embaixada, a cultural space housed in a stunning 19th-century palace that hosts pop-up art exhibitions and design showcases. For film screenings and theater, Cinema Ideal in nearby Chiado screens independent films and often holds special events.
Principe Real is a neighborhood full of history and culture, ideal for those looking to live in an environment full of charm. This space offers a comfortable and quiet life, in a classic and modern atmosphere at the same time.