Coliving in Principe Real, Lisbon

Why Principe Real works for remote workers

Principe Real is where Lisbon feels most like a European capital — polished without being sterile, expensive without being exclusive. The neighborhood centers around a beautiful garden (Jardim do Principe Real) with a massive cedar tree that locals gather under for coffee and conversation. The surrounding streets are lined with independent boutiques, wine bars, and some of the city’s best restaurants.

It’s one of Lisbon’s most LGBTQ-friendly areas and has a progressive, cosmopolitan energy. The crowd is a mix of well-off locals, expats, and creative professionals. Rents are among the highest in the city, but you’re paying for walkability, aesthetics, and a genuine neighborhood feel that hasn’t been hollowed out by mass tourism — at least not yet.

Where to work

Principe Real punches above its weight for remote work infrastructure. The Embaixada concept store (in a gorgeous 19th-century palace) has a cafe with Wi-Fi and a courtyard. Copenhague Coffee Lab has a location here. For proper coworking, Outsite and Second Home are both within a 15-minute walk. The Jardim Botanico nearby offers a peaceful change of scenery when screen fatigue hits.

Food and social life

This is brunch central — A Cevicheria, Cafe Janis, and Local are all packed on weekends. For everyday meals, the Mercado da Construcao has affordable lunch options. The food scene skews international and upmarket: expect natural wine bars, Japanese-Portuguese fusion, and artisan pastry shops. Nightlife is chill but present — Pavilhao Chines is a legendary cocktail bar filled with bizarre collections.

Getting around

Principe Real is walking distance to Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto. The Rato metro station and Elevator da Gloria are both close. The neighborhood is relatively flat compared to Alfama or Graca, making it comfortable on foot. Bus 758 connects you to the train station.

Watch out for

Prices. A one-bedroom apartment can easily run 1,200-1,800 EUR/month. Restaurants and cafes are pricier than the Lisbon average. The area gets busy on weekends but stays residential enough to feel livable. Parking is nearly impossible if you have a car.