An Unforgettable Day Trip from Lisbon to Peniche Portugal

Lisbon’s charm is undeniable, but a short journey away lies the coastal allure of Peniche. Peniche promises an unforgettable day trip infused with history, culture, and adventure. Here’s how you can get the most out of your day trip from Lisbon to Peniche, Portugal. If you have 2 days for your outing from Lisbon to Peniche, consider spending the night in Peniche, adding in a side to trip to either the Berlengas Islands or Óbidos, or both.

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Getting There: Traveling from Lisbon to Peniche

Peniche is easily accessible from Lisbon, making it an ideal destination for a day trip.

Lisbon to Peniche by Car

You can opt to drive, which typically takes around 90 minutes via the A8 motorway. This route allows you the flexibility to explore the scenic surroundings at your own pace. You’ll find a number of free parking options when you reach town. We’d suggest parking your car and exploring town on foot or by bike. Before reserving your rental car, be sure to check out the top tips for renting a car in Portugal!

Getting to Peniche with Public Transport

If you prefer public transport, regular bus services run by Rede Expressos and Flixbus connect Lisbon to Peniche. The buses depart from Lisbon’s Sete Rios or Oriente stations and the journey lasts approximately 1.5 hours. This hassle-free transit drops you in the heart of Peniche, ready to start your adventure. One way prices start at 2.99 Euros per person, if booked in advance.

Tours from Lisbon to Peniche

For those looking for a more guided experience, several tour operators in Lisbon offer day trips to Peniche which include transportation and a planned itinerary. See a few of the top rated tours below.

Morning: Exploring the Peniche Fort

Arriving in Peniche, your first stop is the imposing Fortaleza de Peniche (Peniche Fort). This 16th-century fortress has played various roles throughout history. The fort was originally built to defend against attacks from the English, French and Barbary pirates. It was rebuilt after being partially destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. More recently, it was used to house prisoners of war during WW1 and became a notorious political prison during the Estado Novo regime. A walk through its corridors is a journey through time, where echoes of the past meet sweeping ocean views.

Mid-Morning: Relax at Papôa with a View to the Berlengas

Next, walk over to the small peninsula of Papôa, a perfect spot to climb around the rocks, go fishing, or have a picnic. This area offers stunning vistas of the Atlantic and, on a clear day, views of the Berlengas Islands in the distance. The beauty of Papôa, combined with the backdrop of the Berlengas, was truly a highlight of our recent return trip to Peniche.

Don’t miss a stop at Bar do Quebrado on the peninsula for a coffee, drink, or some food. This can get crowded with locals on the weekends in particular, because of the stunning location of its chairs along the coast, with a view towards the beaches.

Afternoon: Surf’s Up!

Peniche is a surfer’s paradise, renowned for its superb waves and beautiful beaches. One of the unique things about Peniche is that it has surf spots suited for true beginners and those that will challenge experts. We enjoyed a lesson through Escola Surf, though you’ll find many highly rates surf schools and tours in Peniche. The exhilarating rush of surfing in Peniche, with the Atlantic underfoot and the sun overhead, is an absolute must-do. If surfing isn’t your thing, an afternoon at the beautiful white sand beaches won’t disappoint. We surfed here and also at Guincho Beach. Both were enjoyable experiences, though the Peniche surfing was a bit easier for true beginners.

If you haven’t stopped for lunch already, Bar do Cerro – Pranchas & Petiscos is a great spot for a light lunch, and right next to many of the surf schools.

Late Afternoon: Exploring the Town

After riding the waves, take some time to wander Peniche’s charming streets. The town has dotted with quaint shops selling local crafts, including intricate Bobbin lacework, which Peniche is famous for. The Bilros museum is a great option for those interested in learning more about this local craft.

After exploring the shops and galleries in town, take a short walk to see Santo Estêvão Chapel. The chapel is one of Peniche’s oldest structures, featuring a simple architectural style that invites you to slow down and appreciate the chapel and its surroundings. The area around the chapel offers some of the most picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and coastline, making it a perfect spot for capturing stunning photographs late in the afternoon and at sunset.

Evening: Local Cuisine and Sunsets

As the day winds down, settle into one of Peniche’s local eateries. If you are a seafood lover, head a few blocks off of the main streets to visit Restaurante D Raiz for incredible food and service at good prices.

Conclude your visit by watching the sunset from the Peniche shoreline, a fitting end to a day filled with discovery and adventure.

Optional Side Trip: A Day on the Berlengas Islands

For those who have a bit more time or are looking for an additional adventure, consider a side trip to the Berlengas Islands. Ferries to the islands depart from Peniche’s marina and the journey takes about 30 minutes. We’d suggest doing this on a calmer day if possible, to make the crossing to the islands enjoyable.

The main attraction is exploring Berlenga Grande, the main island. Known for its crystal-clear waters and rugged landscape, the island offers perfect opportunities for hiking and bird watching. Be sure to explore the São João Baptista fort, a 17th-century fortress linked to the mainland by a quaint stone bridge. If you are interested in kayaking, SUP, Snorkeling or diving, be sure to arrange these in advance (see tour options below). Spending a day in the Berlengas is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and escape the busier pace of mainland Portugal.

Where to Stay in Peniche

If you decide to spend the night in Peniche to visit the Berlengas, Óbidos, or just to do a bit more surfing, here are some recommended options.

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