Principe Real neighborhood was the most vibrant and laid back area in Lisbon where we spent two days. The neighborhood seemed more relaxed to us without feeling overwhelmed by the crowds of tourists we encountered when walking around popular areas of Bairro Alto, the neighboring downtown area of Lisbon. Bairro Alto on streets near the waterfront seem to be the gravitational attraction for most tourists in the city. Perhaps the uphill walk from Bairro Alto to Principe Real keeps the neighborhood a little less congested.
We arrived at Memmo Real Principe Hotel – my hotel review (Marriott Bonvoy 35,000 points) around noon and left our luggage while we explored the neighborhood. Faz Frio provided a tasty lunch with beer.
The Botanical Garden of Lisbon and Natural History Museum are two of the major attractions in Principe Real. Tickets are 5 EUR for the garden and 6 EUR for the museum. A combination ticket for 8 EUR allows admission to both.
We opted for the free Principe Real Garden across the street.
A cool music infused 2019 YouTube 2-minute video of the Mexican cedar tree.
Principe Real Garden is a laid back place with a cafe serving burgers and beer, many benches, grassy areas, a playground, large fountain (not running during our visit) and some cool views from the perimeter streets.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
My favorite spot in the Principe Real neighborhood is a public terrace and beer garden at Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. The views are terrific and the place was packed with people on the weekend. A stage offered live music for the community.
