Authentic Lisbon in the heart of elegant Principe Real
Built in the classic Pombaline architectural style of the 18th century, this historic apartment building in Lisbon is nostalgic and grand.
Enchantment is never far away in Lisbon, with its heart in both the old world and the new. Here, the weather is as warm and welcoming as the Portuguese people, who live life with gregarious gusto. Good food and wine, time with family and friends…these are bare necessities of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Add to this a month or even a year as a resident in a gracious apartment, in the elegant Principe Real neighbourhood, and you can experience authentic Portuguese living first-hand.
Bathed in light and charm, it’s on the first floor up 15 steps – a real luck, because historic buildings were constructed sans elevators. A little bit of ‘then’ and lots of ‘now’ give the space an ‘old-world-romance-meets-contemporary chic’ vibe. The space is made more enticing since the apartment wraps around the corner and has six evocative little balconies – some of them Juliet style. This neighbourhood is so peaceful, you can fling open the balconies’ double doors, step outside and watch the world go by with no traffic noise.Â
Inside, the apartment is an exquisite cocoon with classic proportions, high ceilings, original wooden floors and mouldings. Everything traditional has been newly renovated, yet there are modern appliances and there’s a sense of unfettered luxury throughout. The two spacious double bedrooms, plus a single bedroom, are served by a generous bathroom. Designer-owned, the decor is European contemporary with a casual feel throughout. It an invitation to put your feet up and immediately pour a glass of wine
Live in Lisbon like an insider
While you won’t see a tourist in this gracious neighbourhood, it’s only a 20-minute walk to downtown Lisbon’s enchanting attractions. And whichever direction you choose, there will be something interesting to see. Most fun is just to walk and discover as you go. You could take a map, but you’ll find your way easily on your phone or friendly locals will guide you home and you’ll get by fine speaking only English.
Actually, you could easily spend a month and never leave Principe Real at all, since everything for daily living is right there. From local restaurants to takeaways, a hair salon and health shop, mini-supermarket, bakery, pub, pharmacy, ATM and more. Shop for antiques, flowers or hardware too – all among friendly neighbours going about their daily lives.
You’ll also find the locals chilling on the leafy little square, Praça das Flores, just a half a block away. So grab a coffee, find a bench and watch the world wake up around you. Or head for the square to watch the sun set, and then drift on to one of the quaint restaurants around Praça das Flores to dine with fellow locals…and that’s pretty much what you’ll be after spending a month in this delightful neighbourhood!
What we love!
- Everything you need to live comfortably is within walking distance, so no Uber necessary.
- That there’s a local Portuguese restaurant on the ground floor, so you can dine without leaving the building.
- The shaded square, Praça das Flores, is just around the corner.
- Early morning coffee from Copenhagen Coffee Lab & Bakery.
- The sunny spaciousness and beautiful outlook of the apartment.
- Fresh pasteis de nata anytime you want them.
- That you don’t need to climb multiple flights of stairs to the front door.
- It’s real-life Lisbon, with no tourists in sight.
- Casa das Flores is in a small block with just two apartments per floor.
- That you can walk to tourist attractions, galleries, museums.
- That the little balconies enable ‘private space’ outdoors
- Principe Real is safe to walk around day or night.
Need to know
- Principe Real law only permits one to twelve month rentals of the apartment.
- It’s ideal for sabbaticals, those studying in Portugal, or long-stay holidays.
- The apartment is fully contained and has a dishwasher and washing machine.
- It’s air-conditioned, although the Lisbon climate is mild.
- A cleaning service is available on request.
- The apartment manager speaks English.
- Access to the apartment is not wheelchair friendly.
- Ideal for a family of five, or two couples and a child.
- The single bedroom has a desk, so can be used as a study.
- Public transport is a 15-minute walk away (AM and AZ Metro lines).
- Read local travel writer Abigail Malbon’s features on Lisbon in Conde Nast Traveller before you go.