It’s one of Lisbon’s main avenues and it has been that way since its creation. It started as a public promenade by the hand of Marquis of Pombal, and in 1879 it gained the layout that we know today inspired in Paris’ Champs Élysées; it was then transformed into an avenue and decorated with gardens. Over time, it gained the Portuguese styled cobblestone sidewalks and saw an increase in the traffic lanes in different directions. The reality is that this avenue extended the city northwards and became like the city’s boulevard of dreams.
EXCLUSIVE FINE GASTRONOMY
Opened in 2017, the JNcQuoi is already one of the city’s sophisticated spots. Its signature cuisine restaurant is an attraction for those seeking fine dining and an exclusive ambiance, complemented by a gourmet delibar and a men’s Fashion Clinic, offering brands such as Yves Saint Laurent or Dolce & Gabanna. And, the world’s most refined macarons can also be found there, at the only Ladurée sales point in all of Portugal.
Near the avenue, at the Ritz Hotel, Pascal Meynard’s Varanda offers Michelin starred cuisine with a view, and the most relished brunch in town. At the Olivier Avenida, the famous chef reveals his most exclusive and sought menu in a luxurious space. And already towards the end of the avenue, behind the Avenida Palace hotel, the Gambrinus remains even after so many decades, a hideaway for classic haute cuisine.
HIGH CLASS CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES
From top to bottom and left to right, is a real parade of high class brand stores; they are all there. Let’s count them: Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Burberry, Michael Kors, Lacoste, MaxMara, Sandro, Ermenegildo Zegna, Lowe, Hugo Boss, Armani, Carolina Herrera and Chanel, just to mention the sole brand stores. Fashion Clinic and Loja das Meias offer some of these top quality world brands and many others in criteriously selected items. And representing the top jewelers and watch makers there is Cartier, Bulgari, Torres Jewelers, Boutique dos Relógios and Office Panerai.
HOTELS FOR THE STARS
On top of Marquês de Pombal and right by the avenida, imposing and with a panoramic view over Lisbon, is the Ritz, a worldwide brand reference in high quality lodging. Going down the Avenue, at one of the main cross sections, we will find the incredibly sophisticated and hospitable PortoBay Liberdade. Towards the middle, the Valverde hides an oasis of comfort, color and eclecticism, while at the end we will find one of the classic references in high class Portuguese hotel scenery, the Avenida Palace.
TO LIVE AMONG THIS LUXE (OR ABOVE IT)
To live at Avenida da Liberdade is today’s best symbol of economic and social capital. For many years, it was strictly associated with either shopping or offices and constituted one of the city’s main business centers. The last years have seen it becoming one of the most expensive and exclusive living areas in the world, demanding an astronomical price per square foot. Many office buildings are being transformed into roomy living apartments, with privacy and quality finishes ranking high along the best world capitals; an exclusive luxe that particularly attracts foreign millionaires. However, it wouldn’t be meaningless to say that any house here would be a dream house for many millions; of people, of course.
Article produced in partnership with Ins Portugal
