From Lisbon: Tour to Berlengas, a UNESCO natural reserve

Planning a day trip from Lisbon that combines stunning scenery, fascinating history, and a touch of adventure? This tour to the Berlengas Islands offers just that — a well-rounded experience set in one of Portugal’s most beautiful protected areas. While it’s not perfect, it provides a fantastic way to escape the city and enjoy a mix of natural beauty, marine activity, and history, all in one package.

What we love about this tour? First, the small group size (limited to 8 participants) promises a more personalized experience. Second, the boat ride with a transparent bottom makes exploring caves and marine life accessible and visually striking. Third, the balance of activities and free time allows you to relax or explore at your own pace. A possible drawback? The tour’s lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Overall, it suits those who enjoy nature, easy outdoor adventures, and a touch of history—ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a flexible day trip.

Good To Know

• Small group tours ensure better interaction and personalized guidance
• Boat with transparent bottom offers a unique view of caves and marine wildlife
• Flexible free time lets you relax, swim, or explore on your own
• Historical site visits like the São João Baptista Fort add cultural interest
• Comfortable transportation from Lisbon makes the journey hassle-free
• Pricing offers good value for a full-day experience, though lunch is extra

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Journey from Lisbon to Berlengas: What to Expect

Your adventure starts with a comfortable, air-conditioned transfer from Lisbon, either from a designated meeting point or your hotel — a convenient way to skip the stress of driving. The vehicle varies depending on group size but maintains a focus on comfort, making the nearly one-hour drive to Peniche feel quick.

Once in Peniche marina, you’ll board the boat heading to the islands. The boat ride itself is an experience worth savoring, with scenic coastal views that set the tone for the day ahead. The journey to the Berlengas is about 38 minutes, passing by rugged cliffs and quiet beaches, offering plenty of photo moments.

Exploring Berlengas: Nature, Caves, and Marine Life

The Boat Trip with a Transparent Bottom

One of the highlights is the boat trip with a transparent bottom, allowing you to see underwater formations, fish, and marine flora without getting wet. This part of the tour is especially popular, with travelers noting how easy it is to enjoy the caves and cliffs from a unique vantage point. The boat glides through sea caves and past towering cliffs, providing scenic views that are virtually impossible to replicate elsewhere.

Visiting the Fort of São João Baptista

The fort is a key historical highlight. Built to defend against pirates and invaders, it’s a relic of Portugal’s maritime past. Visitors can walk around the fort, learn about its battles, and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic. The guided explanation adds depth to the experience, making the history tangible and engaging.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Short Walks and Scenic Vistas

For those who like a bit of movement, a short walk to the lighthouse offers sweeping views of the archipelago and the Atlantic horizon. It’s an invigorating break from boat rides and offers fantastic photo opportunities.

Fun and Relaxation on the Island

Once on land, the island provides a range of options. You can relax on the beach, take a swim in the clear waters, or snorkel with the masks and snorkels provided (in limited numbers). Some travelers mention how easy it is to access the beach directly from the boat dock, saving time and effort.

For a more active take, kayaking (not included but available as an option) can be a fun way to explore caves and hidden coves. One review mentioned the convenience of the boat dock’s easy beach access, making it effortless to enjoy seaside leisure.

Food and Refreshments

The @mesadailha restaurant overlooking the ocean offers a great spot to relax, enjoy a drink, and admire the views. Drinks like beer, cocktails, and snacks are available, making it a perfect refreshment stop. However, note that lunch isn’t included, so many travelers bring snacks or plan to eat at the restaurant.

Additional Activities and Free Time

The tour’s schedule allows for around four hours of free time on the island. You can choose to relax on the beach, explore the surroundings further, or take part in optional activities like kayaking or snorkeling. The flexibility is appreciated, giving each traveler a chance to tailor the day to their preferences.

Practical Details: Transportation, Group Size, and Cost

This tour is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The small group size (up to 8 participants) ensures more personalized attention from guides and a more intimate experience. The round-trip transfer from Lisbon is in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable and stress-free.

Pricing offers good value considering the full-day itinerary, boat rides, a visit to a UNESCO site, and guided explanations. Remember, lunch is not included, so budget accordingly or bring your own snacks. The tour lasts around 8 hours, with start times varying based on availability — check in advance to find the most suitable slot.

The activity is suitable for most, but people with reduced mobility might find some aspects challenging, mainly due to walking and boat transfers.

What We Learned from the Reviews

While the majority of reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, not every experience was flawless. One traveler described the tour as “not great from start to finish,” indicating that expectations might vary, especially in terms of organization or comfort. Conversely, another reviewer praised the friendly driver who provided food and drinks, making the trip more enjoyable.

This suggests that the quality of the experience can depend on the guide and the day’s weather. The boat guide’s knowledge about the caves and marine life, paired with the easy beach access, makes a significant difference. Expect a relaxed but well-structured day that balances sightseeing with leisure.

This tour offers a compelling way to experience Portugal’s Atlantic coastline without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s a blend of natural beauty, historic sites, and marine adventure wrapped into one full-day package. The small group size and personalized touches make it suitable for those who want a more intimate experience.

While lunch isn’t included and some travelers might wish for more structured activities, the flexibility and scenic boat rides compensate well. If you love discovering new landscapes, exploring caves, and soaking up the sun on a quiet island, this trip hits the right notes.

It’s perfect for adventurers, history buffs, and those simply wanting a peaceful escape from city life. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and your curiosity.

How long is the transfer from Lisbon?
The trip from Lisbon to Peniche takes about 58 minutes in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, depending on traffic.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time to buy or bring your own food to enjoy at the island or the restaurant overlooking the ocean.

What is the boat ride like?
The boat ride includes a transparent bottom section, allowing you to see underwater caves and marine life without getting wet. It’s a relaxing way to view the cliffs and caves along the coast.

Are there options for water activities?
Yes, you can snorkel using provided masks and snorkels (limited availability), and kayaking is available as an additional option, though not included in the price.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s suitable for most travelers, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and a relaxing day in nature. People with reduced mobility may face some challenges.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, sun protection, and perhaps a camera or snorkeling gear if you wish to explore underwater.

How much free time do I get on the island?
You’ll have around four hours to relax, explore, swim, or do optional activities at your own pace.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak Portuguese and English, ensuring clear communication during the trip.

In essence, this tour offers a well-balanced day of exploration and relaxation, perfect for those who want to experience Portugal’s Atlantic beauty with ease and comfort.

You can check if your dates are available here: