Layover in Lisbon: Twenty hours in the Principe Real neighborhood
View of Lisbon from the Memmo Principe Real
I enjoyed this area of Lisbon so much during a layover I couldn’t help sharing - even if this technically doesn’t count as ‘Two Days Away.’ The Barrio Príncipe Real is a great neighborhood to anchor a short stay in Lisbon and below you’ll find the many things (all walkable) to do while there. Stay tuned for more Lisbon suggestions when we return later this year.
Places to stay
The Memmo Principe Real is one of the best Marriott properties we’ve been to. The service is impeccable, meals at the restaurant were fabulous, and rooms have gorgeous views. This hotel is perfectly located in a walkable neighborhood near great restaurants and shopping and only a 20 minute stroll from other sightseeing locations. We highly recommend this hotel for a stay in Lisbon and encourage you to take advantage of the daily 5 pm walking tour (complimentary) and abundant Bonvoy Elite perks (welcome drink and appetizer in the restaurant, fruit plate, tonic drink in the room, and included breakfast).
Where to eat
Michelin-starred Tapisco is an excellent choice for dinner. Sit at the bar where you can see the chefs creating your meal (they were quite friendly and willing to explain when we had questions).
Cuttlefish tempura at Tapisco
Seafood stew at Tapisco
Turbot from the coast with grilled potatoes from the Cafe Principe Real
Cafe Principe Real in the Memmo served us an excellent fish for lunch and an outstanding breakfast the next morning, with a combination of fruits and pastries, plus hot items to order and fresh juices.
Lost In has a great view and where we plan to try next time we visit!
Esplanada Cafe is in a park and a lovely place to have a meal, often with live music in the background.
Things to do
Shop! The street R. Dom Pedro is lined with dozens of attractive boutiques with art, clothing, ceramics, and more. We particularly loved:
Pottery for sale at Ceramics Factory
Ceramics Factory had so many cute items we made a plan to return with an empty suitcase - espresso mugs, coffee mugs, platters, tiny little dishes for cooking sardines. Will definitely come back here.
There are many other similar small shops with great unique souvenirs, books, fashion, tinned fish, etc. to check out. You can take a stroll and see what you find.
Entrance to a Lisbon shop
Visit museums. These two are close:
Museo Geologico
Museo Nacional de Historia Natural
Statue in the park near Esplanada Cafe
Walk in the park and hear live music: The Garden Franca Bourges is nearby and sometimes has live music playing beside the cafe. There is also a very casual and budget friendly corner bar (cash only) adjacent to the park where you can get an espresso, a pint, or a glass of red or wine (we paid 2.20€ for the latter!)
Historic building in the Principe Real neighborhood of Lisbon