Wondering how to visit Berlengas? Then you’re in the right place.
If you’re planning a trip to this small Portuguese paradise and feeling a bit overwhelmed by ferry schedules, permits, or what’s actually worth seeing, this guide will help you plan the perfect visit.
The Berlengas archipelago is one of the most unique places in Portugal and honestly feels different from anywhere else in the country. Here, you’ll find nature in its purest state, dramatic landscapes that leave you speechless, and crystal-clear seawater that is simply irresistible.
Currently considered a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Berlengas is an archipelago of granite islands located around 15 km (9 mi) off the coast of Peniche.
The archipelago is made up of three island groups (Berlenga Grande, Estelas, and Farilhões-Forcados), although Berlenga Grande is by far the largest and the one most people visit. In fact, whenever I mention Berlengas throughout this guide, I’ll be referring to Berlenga Grande.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to visit Berlengas, including how to get there, the best things to do, practical tips, and what to expect before planning your trip.
Quick Guide for visiting Berlengas
📍 Top sights: São João Baptista Fort | Berlenga Grande Beach | Duque de Bragança Lighthouse | Ilha Velha Trail | Berlenga Trail | Furado Grande Cave
🚤 How to get there: First, get to Peniche (if you’re not planning to travel by bus, I recommend renting a car). From there, take a boat to Berlengas, which usually takes around 30 minutes.
✨ Top tours & experiences in Berlengas. Book in advance, especially during summer and weekends, as daily visitor numbers are limited.
– Berlengas cave tour from Peniche
– Berlengas hiking & cave tour (best if you want the full experience)
⌛ How much time you need: Most people visit Berlengas on a half-day or full-day trip, but you can also stay overnight (options are limited).
🎫 Important: All visitors must register through BerlengasPass and pay the mandatory tourist tax before visiting.
💊 Best travel insurance for Portugal: I recommend Heymondo for its excellent balance between affordability and quality.
🛜 Best way to stay connected in Portugal: If your phone supports eSIM, use Airalo (MARIAN4315 = 3$ off). Otherwise, get a MEO, NOS or Vodafone SIM.
💰Currency in Portugal: The local currency is the Euro (€) and I recommend using Revolut to save on conversion fees.
What is the best time of the year to visit Berlengas?
The most popular time to visit Berlengas is during the summer months.
Not only are temperatures warmer, but there are also more boat options available to get to the island, and this is also when the island’s restaurant is open.
That said, it is still possible to visit Berlengas during other times of the year, although it is generally less recommended due to rougher sea conditions and less predictable weather.
How much time do you need to visit Berlengas?
Most people choose to visit Berlengas in half a day. People usually do a Berlengas day trip, and honestly, that is enough for most visitors.
The island is quite small, and for that reason, it’s easy to visit it in a few hours. But it all depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for.
If you want to join many of the experiences available, maybe the best option is to stay overnight on the island or stay a full day. In order to stay on the island for a full day, take one of the earliest boats to Berlengas and return on one of the last.
How to visit Berlengas & how to get to Berlengas
Step 1. Getting to Peniche
The first step to visiting Berlengas is getting to Peniche, the town from where all boats depart.
If you’re driving, Peniche is located around 1h30 from Lisbon and approximately 2h30 from Porto. Having a car can also be useful if you want to explore more of the Silver Coast, including places such as Óbidos, Nazaré, or Baleal.
🚗 Planning a road trip through Portugal? If you’re thinking of renting a car, I usually compare prices on DiscoverCars, as it lets me easily compare rental companies and often find some of the best deals.
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If you don’t want to rent a car, it is also possible to get to Peniche by bus from Lisbon. Check out Flixbus and Rede Expresso options.
However, if you’re staying in Lisbon and don’t want to worry about logistics, there are also guided Berlengas day trips from Lisbon that include transportation and the boat trip.
Step 2. Getting to Berlenga Grande Island
Only 550 people can visit the Berlenga Grande island daily, and you access it by boat from Peniche.
The boat trip to Berlengas takes about 30 minutes, but it can take a little longer (up to 45 minutes) if the sea is rough that day.
Prices vary depending on the time of year and on the company you choose. Some companies also offer bundles that include cave tours and other experiences, such as snorkeling or kayaking.
The boat departs from the Peniche harbor, where there are several companies that offer transportation services to Berlengas.
Here are some of the best-known companies in the area:
Since daily visitor numbers are limited and tickets can sell out quickly during summer, I strongly recommend booking your boat to Berlengas online in advance, especially on weekends and during the summer months.
For example, I recommend booking this half-day boat trip to Berlengas that includes a cave tour, as exploring the caves is one of the most popular experiences in Berlengas and a great way to see the island from a different perspective.
If you want to make the most of your day on the island, I’d especially recommend this other tour, which includes not only the cave tour but also a guided hiking tour around Berlenga Grande, allowing you to learn more about the island and discover some of its best viewpoints.
Before visiting Berlengas, there are also a couple of important things to keep in mind. All visitors must register on the BerlengasPass platform before visiting the island and pay a mandatory tourist tax of 3€ (3.5 USD). This fee helps regulate daily visitor numbers and preserve the natural reserve. It is not included in the tours mentioned above.
💡 EXTRA TIP: If you usually get seasick when traveling by boat, this trip is known for causing quite a bit of motion sickness (especially when the sea is rough)! So come prepared and take seasickness tablets before the trip if needed. You can also ask the tour operators when they expect the sea to be calmest.
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Where to stay in Berlengas
Most visitors to the island do not stay overnight, but it is possible to do so. If you are interested in staying overnight on the island, there are 3 accommodation options available:
- São João Baptista Fort: reservations must be made directly with Associação dos Amigos das Berlengas
- Pavilion Mar e Sol: has only 6 rooms and the prices are much higher and must be booked well in advance
- Camping: limited to 40 tents, each night of camping on the island costs 10.3€ (11.6 USD). Here, too, you should book in advance at Peniche’s Tourism Office.
That said, most people choose to visit Berlengas on a day trip. Personally, unless you want a quieter experience or plan to hike more extensively, I think a day trip is enough for most visitors.
The best option is usually to stay in Peniche, where you’ll find a much wider range of accommodation options.
These are some of my favorite options in Peniche:
Activities & tours
🎫 Don’t leave your activities until the last minute. Some of the most popular tours sell out quickly, especially during peak season. I personally use GetYourGuide to book activities because it’s easy to compare options and most tours offer free cancellation. Use code ATICKETTOTAKEOFF5 for 5% off your first booking in the app. Download here!
Best things to do in Berlengas
São João Baptista Fort
One of the main things to do in Berlengas is visiting São João Baptista Fort.
São João Baptista Forte is probably the main landmark on Berlenga Island. Although the date of its construction is uncertain, it is known that the current fort configuration dates back to 1651, after being rebuilt by King João IV.
Over the years, the fort witnessed several pirate attacks and bombings, and it even served as a prison between the 17th and 18th centuries.
The fort was restored again in the 1950s after it was no longer used for military purposes (which had happened until 1914). The access to the fort involves a staircase, but it is a relatively easy walk.
Fishermen’s Quarter
Located in the former location of Misericórdia Monastery, this neighborhood consists of 20 houses and is the only settlement in the Berlengas Archipelago.
Built in 1940, this neighborhood was intended to provide housing for the fishermen who lived there at the time. This is also where you’ll find the island’s restaurant and mini-market.
Berlenga Grande Beach (Carreiro do Mosteiro Beach)
Located next to the Fishermen’s Quarter, this is the most famous beach on the island. The sandy area is relatively small, but the color of the water is simply stunning (so beautiful that it almost makes you forget how cold it is).
The access to the beach is relatively simple, and this beach is conveniently located next to the island’s pier.
Other beaches
There are other beaches on the island, such as Forte Beach and Cova do Sonho Beach, although they are much less well known. These beaches are more difficult to access, and during high tide, they have almost no sand.
Duque de Bragança Lighthouse
Located at the highest point of Berlenga Island, the Duque de Bragança Lighthouse was commissioned by the Marquês de Pombal in 1758, although it only started operating in 1842.
The lighthouse can be visited every Wednesday from 2 pm to 5 pm, and admission is free of charge.
Ilha Velha Trail
This is the shortest trail on the island (1.5 km /0.9 mi round trip) and a relatively easy route. Along the trail, you’ll be able to see the other islets (Estelas and Farilhões) and even Cabo Carvoeiro on clearer days.
While walking this trail, you will also pass by the seagull colonies, very typical of the island.
Berlenga Trail
This is a longer trail (3 km / 1.9 mi one way) and takes you to the southwesternmost point of the island. Along the route, you’ll pass the lighthouse and São João Baptista Fort.
💡 EXTRA TIP: The trails are well-marked and, although in some places it may seem like there are other possible routes, it is important to respect the signs and stay on the marked trails. Also, to make the hike more comfortable, I strongly recommend wearing proper shoes rather than flip-flops.
Caves Tours
There are several caves you can visit in Berlengas, and most of them are hard to access on your own.
The best option is to book a cave tour with one of the companies that provides the boat service between Peniche and Berlengas, since many of them offer bundles that already include cave tours.
Furado Grande Cave is probably the best known, stretching for 70 meters (230 ft), but there are also others worth exploring, such as the Cova do Sonho Cave and Furado Pequeno Cave.
Sea Activities
The color of the seawater and the importance of nature in this place make Berlengas an excellent spot for activities such as diving, snorkeling, canoeing, or paddleboarding.
If you are interested in any of these activities, you can request more information from the boat operators in Peniche harbor.
🤿 If you want to experience Berlengas beyond the main viewpoints and hiking trails, I recommend this boat tour from Peniche that includes snorkeling.
You’ll get the chance to see Berlengas’ crystal-clear waters from a completely different perspective, making it a great option for nature lovers and anyone wanting a more active experience.
Fauna and Flora
Because it is one of the places with the least human intervention in Portugal, here you will find several species of animals and plants that are unique in the country.
One example is the Airo, a bird strongly associated with Berlengas and considered one of the archipelago’s symbols.
If you are interested in wildlife and nature, Berlengas is an excellent place to observe some of these unique species.
Restaurants in Berlengas
Despite being a relatively isolated place, there is a restaurant on the island – Restaurante Mar e Sol (open between May and September).
It has a terrace and the prices are relatively affordable. Don’t forget to bring cash, since there are no ATMs on the island.
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💡 Tip: try to set it up before your trip so you can start using it straight away.
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👉 See how to set it up before your trip here
For those staying at São João Baptista Fort, you can also take advantage of the Fort’s cafeteria, where they serve a few daily dishes.
What to pack for Berlengas
Packing for Berlengas is relatively simple, but there are a few things that can make your visit much more comfortable, especially if you plan to hike or spend a full day on the island.
- Comfortable shoes: If you plan to explore the island’s trails, I strongly recommend wearing comfortable shoes with good grip rather than flip-flops.
- Cash: There are no ATMs on the island, and the restaurant doesn’t accept cards; it’s always best to bring some cash.
- Swimsuit and towel: If the weather is warm, you’ll probably want to take a dip at Berlenga Grande Beach (even if the water is freezing 😅).
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat: Shade is limited on the island, so protection from the sun is especially important during warmer months.
- Water and snacks: Although there is a restaurant and mini-market, bringing water and a few snacks can be useful, particularly if you plan to spend a full day on the island.
- Motion sickness tablets: If you usually get seasick, I highly recommend bringing motion sickness tablets, as the boat crossing can get rough on windier days.
Frequently asked questions about Berlengas
» Is Berlengas worth visiting?
Yes, Berlengas is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you enjoy nature, dramatic coastal landscapes, clear water, and quieter destinations. The island feels very different from mainland Portugal and is one of the most unique places you can visit near Peniche.
» Can you visit Berlengas in one day?
Yes, most people visit Berlengas in one day. A full-day trip is ideal if you want to hike, visit São João Baptista Fort, swim, and take a cave tour. A half-day trip also works if you only want a shorter visit.
» How long is the boat ride to Berlengas?
The boat ride from Peniche to Berlengas usually takes around 30 minutes, but it can take up to 45 minutes if the sea is rough. If you get seasick easily, consider taking motion sickness tablets before the trip.
» Do you need to book Berlengas in advance?
I highly recommend booking your boat to Berlengas in advance, especially during summer and on weekends. Daily visitor numbers are limited, and all visitors must also register through BerlengasPass before visiting.
» Can you swim in Berlengas?
Yes, you can swim in Berlengas, especially at Berlenga Grande Beach. However, the water is usually cold, even in summer, and some beaches have limited sand during high tide.
Final thoughts on visiting Berlengas
I hope this guide has helped you better understand how to visit Berlengas and inspired you to plan a trip to one of Portugal’s most unique destinations.
Between dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, scenic trails, and unforgettable boat rides, Berlengas truly feels like a small paradise unlike anywhere else in the country.
Although most people visit Berlengas on a day trip, I genuinely think it’s one of those places that’s hard not to love, especially if you enjoy nature and quieter destinations.
And if you’re spending some extra time nearby, there are also plenty of things to do in Peniche, from relaxing at beautiful beaches to trying fresh seafood and exploring the dramatic coastline.
Have you already visited Berlengas or are you planning a trip soon? I’d love to hear about your experience, answer any questions, or know what you’re most excited to see, so feel free to leave a comment below.
🌿 Exploring more of Portugal? Don’t miss my guide to the best places to visit in Central Portugal, where I share more beautiful destinations worth adding to your itinerary.
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