Berlenga Islands: Day Trips and Tours from Lisbon

The Berlengas archipelago lies just off the coast of Portugal. It consists of the Berlengas Grande island, as well as the Estelas and Farilhões-Forcados islets.

The Berlengas islands are a nature reserve and home to a variety of protected wildlife. There are also several caves and grottos on the islands that are open to exploration, as well as untouched beaches and emerald waters.

On a day trip to the Berlengas from Lisbon you'll see a lesser-known part of Portugal and learn more about the biosphere reserve and the history of the archipelago.

Start planning here your day out to the Berlengas islands, one of the most exciting destinations for a day trip from Lisbon.

Where are the Berlengas islands?

The Berlengas islands are located over 10 kilometers off of the coast of Peniche, which is located approximately 100 kilometers from Lisbon.

What's the best way to get there from Lisbon?

By car

It takes roughly 1h30 to travel from Lisbon to Peniche by car. The fastest way to drive to Peniche is via the A8 highway. Once you arrive in Peniche, follow the signs to the ferry terminal and hop aboard!

By bus

You can take a bus from Lisbon to Peniche. The Rede Expressos bus departs 10 times per day from the Sete Rios station and the journey takes around 1h35. You then will need to travel by ferryboat to reach the islands.

On a guided tour

Guided tours to the Berlengas islands from Lisbon include round-trip transportation, visits to points of interest and kayaking or a glass-bottomed boat tour.

Depending on the tour, you might be required to travel to Peniche by yourself.

How much do ferry tickets to the Berlengas cost?

The prices of return tickets to the Berlengas islands from Peniche by ferry boat are as follows:

• Adults: €20
• Children (under 10): €10

The much more comfortable option to take a speedboat is also available at a slightly higher price.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to the Berlengas?

An excursion to the Berlengas islands tends to be relaxing and allows for ample time to explore the biosphere reserve. It typically includes a pickup from your hotel in Lisbon, a drive to Peniche and a boat ride to the Berlengas islands.

Once you arrive, your guide will show you around historical sights. You will have plenty of time to explore the natural pathways of the biosphere reserve, as well as to relax on the Berlengas Grande beach.

You will also have the opportunity to do some snorkeling and discover the diverse marine life. Some tours also include a choice of either kayaking or a boat trip to explore the caves, grottoes and clear waters of the islands.

At the end of the day, you will take the boat back to Peniche and then return to Lisbon.

What are the best Berlengas tours from Lisbon?

Small group Berlengas islands day trip from Lisbon

This small group tour includes round-trip transportation from Lisbon and a visit to the St. John the Baptist Fort.

There will also be plenty of time to relax on the Berlengas Grande beach and swim or snorkel. You’ll also explore the many caves and interesting rock formations in the Berlengas islands.

Our pick: Berlenga Island Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon

• Price: From €100 per person
• Duration: 10 hours
• Includes: Transportation, glass-bottom boat, snorkeling equipment

Private Berlengas islands tour from Lisbon

A private tour of the Berlengas islands allows you to explore the archipelago at your own pace and tailor the trip to your interests. You’ll visit the St. John the Baptist Fort and learn about its role in the history of the islands.

There will also be plenty of time to explore the biosphere reserve, both on foot and from the water. Make the most of your time on the Berlengas islands with a private tour which will allow you to enjoy both the journey there and the area itself.

Our pick: Private Tour Berlenga Grande Island Day Trip from Lisbon

• Price: From €200 per person
• Duration: 8 hours
• Includes: Transportation with pickup and drop-off, glass-bottom boat, snorkeling equipment, wi-fi and water

What are the prices of excursions to the Berlengas islands from Lisbon cost?

Prices for day trips to the Berlengas islands from Lisbon typically range from €100 to €200 per person. Private tours are more expensive than small group tours.

What will you see and do on the Berlengas islands?

The archipelago may be small, but there is plenty to see and do on your Berlengas islands day tour.

St. John the Baptist Fort

No Berlengas islands excursion would be complete without a visit to the St. John the Baptist Fort. It was built in the 16th century to defend against pirates and is one of the most popular historical sites in the archipelago. Here, you'll learn about the fort's history and the many pirate sieges that took place.

The coast around the fort also happens to be fantastic for snorkeling. The Berlengas islands boast excellent marine biodiversity, so snorkeling is a popular activity during a jaunt from Lisbon. You may spot fish species such as amberjacks, conger eels, sea breams and banded pipefish.

Berlengas Grande Beach

This is the main beach on the Berlengas islands and is a great place to relax, swim and enjoy the incredible views. The beach is also a good starting point for exploring the many caves and rock formations around the island. Grab a cold drink and a light lunch and enjoy your day at this breathtaking bay.

Blue Cave

The Berlengas islands are home to many unique caves and grottos, and the impressive Blue Cave is among the most popular. One of the best ways to discover this unique spot is on a jaunt with a glass-bottomed boat. You may also be able to spot some of the islands' marine life, including stingrays, sea bass and bream.

Berlengas islands day tours also sometimes include kayaking so that you can explore the Blue Cave and coastline at your own pace. This option is slightly more strenuous than a glass-bottom boat, but you'll get to enjoy some independence while you're on the water.

Berlengas Nature Reserve

The Berlengas islands are part of a protected biosphere reserve, so there are plenty of trails to explore on a hiking excursion. Here, you'll find a variety of flora and fauna, including some rare species. Take some time off and enjoy nature while you wander around this incredible reserve.

When is the best time to visit the Berlengas islands?

The best time for a Berlengas islands jaunt is from early June to late August, when the weather is warm and stable. This is also the busiest time of year, so be sure to book your tour in advance.

Keep in mind that during the winter months, the Berlengas islands experience strong winds and large waves. For this reason, boats to the islands do not run during the winter. Boats typically travel to the Berlanga islands day tour from late May until the end of September, weather permitting.

What other day trips can you do from Lisbon?

• Day trips to Sintra from Lisbon
• Cascais day trips from Lisbon
• Day trips to Fatima from Lisbon
• Obidos day trips from Lisbon
• Day trips to Nazare from Lisbon

Travel tips

• Pack sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses as there is little shade on the island.
• Bring a towel and swimwear if you want to swim or kayak.
• Wear comfortable shoes with plenty of grip.
• Pack some snacks and drinks, as there are limited food options on the island.
• Be aware that there are no ATMs on the islands, so be sure to bring enough cash for your day trip.
• Be sure to book your tour in advance, especially if you're visiting during the peak summer months. Only a limited number of visitors are allowed onto the Berlenga islands each day in order to protect the natural environment.
• The boat ride from Peniche to Berlenga Grande can be rough, so bring anti-nausea tablets if you tend to get seasick.
• Sit on the right side of the boat on the way to the island for the best views.
• If you're interested in birdwatching, bring a pair of binoculars.