Peniche Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay and more with this comprehensive travel guide for Peniche.


Introduction to Peniche

Peniche is a seaside town perched on a narrow peninsula, located in the Estremadura region of Portugal. Boasting beautiful beaches, historic attractions, charming streets, and a thriving food scene, Peniche is a popular destination for surfers, history buffs, and foodies alike. It is also a gateway to the stunning archipelago of Berlengas, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

List of Places to Visit in Peniche

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fortaleza de Peniche: A 16th-century fortress that was converted into a political prison during the fascist regime of António de Oliveira Salazar. It now houses a museum that documents the country’s struggle for democracy.
  • Museu Municipal de Peniche: A museum that showcases the town’s cultural heritage through a collection of archaeological artifacts, ethnographic material, and contemporary art.
  • Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios: A Baroque-style shrine that stands on a hill overlooking the town, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic ocean.

Natural Attractions of Peniche: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Praia do Medão-Supertubos: A famous beach that is known for its world-class surf breaks. It hosts the annual Rip Curl Pro Portugal surfing competition.
  • Berlengas Archipelago: A group of islands that are a haven for nature lovers, with crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, and unique flora and fauna. Visitors can take a ferry from Peniche to explore the archipelago.
  • Cabo Carvoeiro: An iconic lighthouse that marks the westernmost point of the Peniche peninsula. It offers stunning views of the coast and the ocean.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Peniche

  • Caminho dos Pescadores: A coastal trail that follows the old fisherman’s path from the village of Baleal to the Fort of Peniche, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline.
  • Rota das Fortalezas: A network of bike trails that connect the historic forts of the region, including the Fort of São João Baptista and the Fort of Ínsua.

Best Things to Do in Peniche: Activities and Tours

  • Surf Lessons: Peniche is regarded as one of the best surfing destinations in Europe, with ideal conditions for beginners and pros alike. There are many surf schools and camps that offer lessons and equipment rental.
  • Boat Tour to Berlengas: Visitors can take a boat tour to the Berlengas archipelago, which is a popular spot for snorkeling, diving, and birdwatching.
  • Wine Tasting: The region around Peniche is known for its excellent wines, particularly the fruity and aromatic whites. There are several vineyards that offer tastings and tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Peniche

Day Activities
1 Explore the town center and visit the Fortaleza de Peniche
2 Take a surf lesson or chill out on the beach at Praia do Medão-Supertubos
3 Visit the Berlengas archipelago and go snorkeling
4 Rent a bike and ride the Rota das Fortalezas
5 Take a tour of the local vineyards and do some wine tasting
6 Spend the day hiking along the Caminho dos Pescadores
7 Relax on the beach and soak up the sun before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Peniche

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arroz de Marisco: A rich and flavorful seafood rice dish that is a specialty of the region.
  • Bacalhau à Lagareiro: A traditional Portuguese dish consisting of grilled salt cod, served with garlic and olive oil.
  • Sardinhas Assadas: Grilled sardines that are a staple of Portuguese cuisine, particularly during the summer months.

Local Beverages

  • Vinho Verde: A fruity and young white wine that is produced in the Minho region of northern Portugal.
  • Ginjinha: A sweet cherry liqueur that is popular throughout the country.
  • Cerveja Sagres: A refreshing and crisp lager that is one of the most popular beers in Portugal.

Where to Stay in Peniche: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Capital Boutique Hotel: A stylish and modern hotel located in the heart of the town, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning views.
  • Che Lagarto Hostel Peniche: A budget-friendly hostel that offers a laid-back atmosphere, social events, and easy access to the beach and surf spots.
  • Marazul Hotel: A beachfront hotel with simple and clean rooms, a restaurant serving fresh seafood, and a swimming pool.

What to Buy in Peniche: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Berlengas Honey: A delicious and fragrant honey that is produced on the Berlengas islands.
  • Handcrafted Pottery: Peniche is known for its pottery, particularly the colorful and geometrically patterned plates and bowls.
  • Sardines: Canned sardines are a popular souvenir from Portugal, and Peniche has some of the best quality ones.

Local Culture and Customs of Peniche

Peniche has a strong fishing tradition, and many of the festivals and celebrations in the town revolve around the sea and its bounty. The town also has a religious heritage, and there are many chapels and churches scattered throughout the streets. Visitors are advised to respect local customs and dress modestly when entering places of worship.

Best Time to Visit Peniche

The best time to visit Peniche is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is ideal for surfing and swimming. However, the town also has a mild climate throughout the year, making it a good destination for off-season travel.

Do’s and Don’ts of Peniche

Do:

  • Do try the local seafood, particularly the arroz de marisco and the bacalhau à lagareiro.
  • Do take a surfing lesson or rent a board and hit the waves at Praia do Medão-Supertubos.
  • Do explore the Berlengas archipelago and marvel at its natural beauty.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter on the beach or in the streets.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t underestimate the power of the sea and the currents.

Safety and Health

Safety in Peniche

Peniche is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, visitors should be aware of the risks associated with swimming and surfing in the ocean, and always follow the safety guidelines and warnings posted on the beaches.

Health in Peniche

There are several pharmacies and healthcare centers in Peniche, and the town has adequate medical facilities for emergency situations. Visitors should take any necessary precautions, such as bringing sunscreen and insect repellent, and drink only bottled or treated water.

Getting to Peniche: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Peniche

The nearest international airport to Peniche is Lisbon Portela Airport, located about 85 km away. Visitors can take a bus or taxi to Peniche from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Peniche

Peniche has a modern bus terminal that connects the town with several destinations in Portugal, including Lisbon, Porto, and Fatima. The bus schedules are frequent, with several departures per day.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Peniche by car or taxi from Lisbon, which takes about one hour and a half. There are several rental car companies in the Lisbon airport and city.

How to Get Around in Peniche

Peniche is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. There are also several public buses that connect the town with the nearby villages and beaches. Visitors can rent a bike from several shops in the town center.

Where to Go Next from Peniche: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Óbidos: A charming medieval village located about 20 km from Peniche, with a well-preserved castle, narrow streets, and artisanal shops.
  • Nazaré: A picturesque fishing village located about 50 km north of Peniche, known for its big-wave surf breaks and seafood restaurants.
  • Coimbra: A historic university town located about 150 km from Peniche, with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful gardens, and a lively entertainment scene.

Conclusion

Peniche is a hidden gem on the Portuguese coast, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and coastal charm. With its stunning beaches, historic attractions, outdoor adventures, and gastronomic delights, Peniche is a destination that will leave you spellbound long after you leave.

Cruz dos Remédios Cruz dos Remédios Peniche Fortress Peniche Fortress