Lisbon: Berlengas, Peniche, and Mafra Private Day Trip

Explore Portugal’s Coastal Treasures and Historic Landmarks in a Private Day Trip

This private day trip from Lisbon offers a full and engaging experience, taking you to the Berlengas Archipelago, Peniche, and the Palace of Mafra. Priced at a competitive rate, it lasts around 10 hours, making it ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of Portugal’s scenic and historic highlights.

The tour starts with a pickup from central Lisbon, including options from Oeiras, Cascais, Algés, Lisbon, and Estoril, ensuring convenience regardless of your accommodation. A licensed driver and professional guide lead the way, providing personalized attention and insightful commentary. The experience emphasizes comfort with air-conditioned transportation and the ability to skip ticket lines, saving you time and hassle.

While the tour offers a balanced schedule, it involves boat rides and walking, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended. This tour suits those interested in nature, history, and picturesque scenery, offering a mix of outdoor activities and cultural visits in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private tour with personalized service and flexible timing
• Duration of 10 hours, including boat rides and guided visits
• Visits to the Berlengas Archipelago, Peniche, and Mafra Palace
• Boat trips around Berlenga Grande, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
• Historic sites like Fort of São João Baptista and Peniche Fortress
• Majestic Mafra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its vast library and basilica

Discover the Natural Beauty of the Berlengas Archipelago

The tour begins with a boat ride from Peniche to the Berlenga Grande Island, part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This island features dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant biodiversity.

On the island, you’ll explore the historic Fort of São João Baptista, built in the 17th century, and visit the lighthouse that has guided sailors since 1842. You get around 3.5 hours for sightseeing, walking, and photography, offering plenty of time to enjoy the stunning scenery and natural landscapes.

The boat rides of 20 minutes each way are smooth and allow for scenic views of the coastline. The boat transfer is a highlight, providing a unique perspective of this protected archipelago. The visit to Berlenga Grande combines history, nature, and leisure, making it a memorable part of the day.

Stroll Through the Charms of Peniche’s Fishing Village and Fortress

After returning from Berlenga, the tour proceeds to Peniche, a lively coastal town with a maritime heritage that is palpable throughout. The guided tour includes a walk through the cobbled streets, where maritime history is on display, and a visit to the Peniche Fortress, dating back to the 16th century.

In Peniche, you’ll find a vibrant fishing port, where local boats bob in the water and fresh seafood aromas fill the air. The stop here lasts approximately 40 minutes, allowing visitors to absorb the coastal atmosphere and see the historic defenses that protected the city.

This part of the tour provides a glimpse into Portugal’s maritime culture, with opportunities for photography and a brief break before heading to the next highlight.

Marvel at Portugal’s Largest Baroque Palace in Mafra

The final major stop is the Palace of Mafra, an imposing Baroque monument that combines a royal palace, basilica, convent, and ceremonial gardens. This UNESCO World Heritage Site impresses with its grand architecture and sprawling complex.

The guided visit covers the basilica, renowned for its six historic pipe organs and two large 18th-century carillons, as well as the library, which houses between 30,000 and 36,000 rare volumes. Visitors typically spend about one hour exploring this magnificent site, marveling at its ornate interiors and historical significance.

The scenic drive to Mafra offers views of the Portuguese countryside, adding a relaxing element to the day. The site’s vastness and architectural detail make it a highlight for history and architecture lovers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Comfort and Convenience with Pickup and Drop-off Services

This tour includes private pickup and drop-off at most central Lisbon hotels, Airbnb rentals, and cruise ports, ensuring a stress-free experience from the start. The professional driver, fully insured and licensed, takes care of all transportation, so travelers can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Throughout the day, the air-conditioned vehicle maintains a comfortable environment, and the real-time traffic tracking guarantees timely arrivals and departures. The tour operates as a private group, offering flexibility and personalized attention from the guide.

Detailed Itinerary and Logical Flow

The day begins with a pickup at one of five convenient locations. Travelers then embark on a scenic drive to Peniche, where the boat ride to Berlenga Grande begins. The 3.5 hours on the island allow for photo stops, walking, and free time for sightseeing.

After returning to Peniche, the group has a 40-minute break before heading to Mafra. The one-hour visit to the Palace provides a deep dive into Portugal’s architectural splendor. The entire itinerary balances outdoor activities, historic exploration, and scenic drives to maximize the experience within the 10-hour schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This private tour is perfect for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth day exploring Portugal’s natural and historic sites. It suits those interested in marine environments, historic forts, and baroque architecture. The private group format offers flexibility and a more intimate experience.

However, travelers should note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and involves walking and boat rides, so mobility limitations could be a concern. Also, pets are not allowed on the tour.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Cultural and Scenic Excursion from Lisbon

This 10-hour private day trip provides a carefully curated look at Portugal’s coastal landscapes and historic monuments. The combination of scenic boat rides in the Berlengas, the vibrant maritime atmosphere of Peniche, and the majestic architecture of Mafra Palace makes this tour a comprehensive choice for those seeking variety.

The personalized service, expert guides, and comfortable transport enhance the experience, making it a practical yet enriching option. While it requires walking and some outdoor exposure, it offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and culture.

This tour appeals most to history buffs, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts wanting a full day of discovery without the hassle of organizing multiple visits alone. Overall, it offers good value with seamless logistics and an engaging itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour price?
  The price covers private transportation, boat rides, and guided visits to Berlenga Grande, Peniche, and Mafra Palace.

• How long is the boat ride?
  The boat trips between Peniche and Berlenga Grande are 20 minutes each way.

• Are there any physical activity requirements?
  The tour involves walking and some outdoor exploration, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  The data does not specify age restrictions, but physical activity and outdoor elements suggest it’s best for travelers prepared for walking and boat rides.

• Can I cancel the tour?
  Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• What languages are available for the guide?
  Guides speak English, Portuguese, Malay, Hindi, Spanish, Indonesian, Urdu, and Polish.

• Where does the tour start?
  The tour departs from Oeiras, Cascais, Algés, Lisbon, or Estoril, with pickup included.

• How much time do I have at each site?
  You get approximately 3.5 hours on Berlenga, 40 minutes in Peniche, and about 1 hour at Mafra Palace.

• Is food included?
  The data does not mention included meals or drinks, so it’s advisable to bring water and snacks.

• Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
  No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and outdoor activities.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
  More Great Tours Nearby