Private tour from Lisbon: to Peniche-Berlengas and back

If you’re craving a day away from the bustling streets of Lisbon to connect with nature and explore one of Portugal’s lesser-known treasures, this private tour to Berlengas Island might just be the perfect escape. While the landscape feels far from the city’s urban charm, it’s only about an hour away, making it a manageable yet unforgettable day trip.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to travel in a luxurious, eco-friendly Tesla Model Y, which means comfort and sustainability go hand in hand. Second, the private nature of the tour guarantees an intimate experience, tailored to your group’s rhythm. Third, the combination of ground transportation, boat trips, and free time on the island ensures a well-rounded adventure.

One consideration? The ferry tickets and cave tour are not included in the base price but can easily be added, which allows some flexibility in budgeting. This tour suits those who value comfort, personalized experiences, and a genuine outdoor adventure—perfect for nature lovers, explorers, or anyone wanting to discover Portugal’s scenic coast away from crowded tourist spots.

Good To Know

• Private, eco-friendly transport ensures comfort and exclusivity.
• Flexible itinerary allows up to 6 hours on the island for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.
• Boat trips and cave tours can be booked in advance, adding depth to your visit.
• Knowledgeable guides and personalized service enrich the experience.
• Ferry tickets are optional but can be reserved beforehand for convenience.
• Ideal for groups of up to 4 seeking a private, hassle-free day trip.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Berlengas Island Tour from Lisbon

Why Choose a Private Tour?

Traveling privately in a sleek electric vehicle creates a relaxed, tailored experience from the moment your journey begins. The Tesla Model Y’s luxurious yet eco-conscious amenities—including Wi-Fi, bottled water, and USB chargers—are a delight, especially if you’re used to the hustle of city travel. Being picked up directly from your hotel or accommodation in Lisbon removes the stress of navigating public transport or crowded tour buses.

This kind of personalized service ensures your group receives attention from an experienced driver who can adapt the pace and answer questions during the drive. The private nature of the tour also means you can customize your time on the island, whether you want to hike, swim, or simply soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

How the Day Unfolds: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Pick-up and Transfer (1.5 hours)

The tour kicks off with your driver collecting you from one of 11 pick-up locations across Lisbon and nearby towns, including Sintra, Cascais, Estoril, and even Mafra. This flexibility is perfect for travelers staying outside the city center. From there, the journey to Peniche is smooth and comfortable, with plenty of time to relax or enjoy the scenery from the electric car.

Having a private driver means you can chat about Portugal’s coastline, ask about local spots, or simply enjoy the silence of the eco-friendly vehicle. The ride typically lasts around an hour and a half, giving you a first glimpse of the rugged coastlines and charming fishing villages.

Ferry to Berlengas (45 minutes)

Once in Peniche, the next stage is boarding a boat for a 40-minute ride to Berlengas Island. While ferry tickets are not included in the base price, they can be reserved for you, ensuring you secure your spot. The boat trip is often described as refreshing, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of the crystalline waters and rugged cliffs.

The boat tour often includes a guided cave tour in a glass-bottom boat, which is a highlight for many. At just 11 euros for the cave tour (for those 4+), it offers an unforgettable way to view the stunning rock formations and hidden caves carved by the sea—an experience praised by visitors like Liam, who called it “really enjoyed and recommended.”

Exploring Berlengas Island (6 hours)

Once on the island, the real adventure begins. You’ll have six hours to explore, and the options are plentiful. The island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, teeming with diverse flora and fauna, many of which are unique to Portugal. From the natural trails, you’ll enjoy panoramic views, photo opportunities, and chances to spot wildlife.

Most visitors use this time to hike along the coast, with some choosing to swim in the clear waters—many comment on the vibrant green hues of the sea, which look almost surreal. The charming fishing village provides some downtime, where you can wander cobbled streets, browse for souvenirs, or simply sit by the harbor soaking in the quiet.

One visitor, Liam, raved about the “beautiful location,” highlighting the mix of hiking, swimming, and boat tours, all with the guidance of knowledgeable locals. The island’s unspoiled landscape encourages you to slow down and enjoy the natural splendor.

Returning to Lisbon

After a full day, you will hop back onto the boat for the return trip, followed by the electric car ride back to your accommodation. The entire experience is designed for comfort and ease, with a total duration of around 10 hours—perfect for a single, enriching day trip.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the starting price might seem higher than some group tours, the private nature, luxury transport, and flexibility make it worthwhile. The added options to pre-book ferry and cave tour tickets mean you won’t have to worry about missing out or long lines. Plus, the personalized attention from guides and drivers enhances the overall experience, making each moment feel special.

Authentic Experiences and Expert Guidance

The tour’s reviews highlight the quality of the guides—friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. Liam appreciated the “spotless car” and “beautiful location,” noting how the guides added local insights, which enriched the day.

Comfortable, Eco-Conscious Transportation

Traveling in a Tesla not only minimizes your carbon footprint but also adds a modern, comfortable touch to your journey. The vehicle’s amenities—Wi-Fi, chargers, bottled water—are thoughtful extras that keep the trip smooth.

Flexibility and Customization

You’re not bound to a strict schedule or crowded groups. The private setting lets you tailor your exploration—whether that’s more time swimming, hiking, or relaxing in the village.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized escape to nature. It suits travelers who appreciate comfortable transportation and want to avoid the hustle of larger tour groups. Nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those interested in Portugal’s coastal landscape will find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s also a good fit for those who prefer to plan ahead, since ferry and cave tour tickets can be reserved in advance, ensuring a seamless day. However, it’s worth noting that it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those prone to seasickness.

Final Thoughts

The private tour from Lisbon to Peniche and Berlengas offers a wonderfully balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that combines eco-friendly transportation, stunning scenery, and a chance to slow down and appreciate Portugal’s less-explored coastline.

You’ll love the way the guides bring the island’s stories to life, the breathtaking vistas visible from the trails, and the refreshing swim in clear waters. The flexibility to add cave tours and ferry tickets makes it a practical choice for those who want to customize their day.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, intimate escape that showcases Portugal’s wild coast, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable adventure. It’s perfect for anyone eager to step off the beaten path and enjoy some of the country’s most scenic and peaceful landscapes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years old can join, and there are options for children’s tickets. The boat cave tour is available for kids over 4 years old.

How long do we spend on the island?
You have about 6 hours on Berlengas Island to explore, hike, swim, or relax at your own pace.

Are ferry tickets included in the price?
No, ferry tickets are not included but can be reserved in advance for a small additional fee, which covers round-trip transportation.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring beachwear, especially if you plan to swim, as well as sun protection, a hat, and possibly snorkeling gear if you wish.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with mobility impairments due to trails and ferry access.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private, so your driver can help tailor the experience within the scheduled stops and activities.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Russian, and Portuguese, offering a variety of language options for travelers.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This private journey to Berlengas combines the best of Portugal’s coastal beauty with personalized service, making it a standout choice for travelers eager for an authentic, scenic adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: