Alternative Guide to:
PENICHE
In the Light of Legends and Stories
Being one of the prettiest coastal cities of Portugal, you should include a trip to Peniche to your list especially if you are visiting Portugal in the warmer seasons. With its vibrant culture, rich history and unparalleled natural beauty, this little seaside gem is a perfect destination whether for a weekend getaway or for a fun summer retreat.
In this itinerary of Peniche I will reveal the best that the city has to offer and all you need to have a memorable journey at this enchanting destination.
Table of Contents
One of the prettiest coastal cities of Portugal that you should include your itinerary if you are visiting Portugal especially in the warmer seasons, lays an hour drive away from Lisbon: Peniche.
This little gem, with a “bit-of-a-tricky” name may steal your heart at first sight, I can tell you that much. (At least that’s what I felt like the moment I saw it.)
(A tip from your Restless girl: Try to pronounce the name of this city with as less emphasize on the first “e” as possible. Namely: “Pnish”. It may mean something that you have not intended at all”, if you know what I mean =I. How to understand if you nailed it? Well, I cannot tell you that, but I can give a hint to understand when you did not: Check the reaction of the local you’re talking to. If you see a grin on their face, you are probably pronouncing the name of the city wrong (or right, depending on what you want.). Civil service OTD: check.√ )
If you wonder why you should visit this city, I can list a few reasons. Each of them will be explained better below, in relative sections but briefly you can expect a vibrant culture, rich history, unparalleled natural beauty, heavenly delicious fresh seafood (yes, even if you don’t like much), and plus, extensive beaches to get some suntan and waves to practice some surfing.)
In a nutshell, Peniche is a perfect destination whether for a weekend getaway or a fun summer retreat.
And your girl got everything you need -and more- covered in this itinerary of Peniche, from food, attractions to accommodation for a memorable journey at this enchanting destination.
Best Time to Visit Peniche
To sum it up: Whenever you want.
Peniche is generally known as a city that sun-tanners flock to during the summer months, but as you will see below, it has a beauty to offer you in every season. This being said, some seasons are not much easier and (to some) more enjoyable to visit Peniche.
From May to September is the period when the sea-sun-sand trio will be experienced at its best, with longer days, deep blue skies, bright sun, warmer weather and outdoor activities full in swing.
Be careful though: July – August is the period of the scorching heat, temperatures push intolerable levels, and of course, this is also when the crowds of visitors / tourists flock to Peniche.
May-June and September are considered shoulder seasons. Although there are still a lot of tourists, not as much as in the high season. That’s why prices can be more affordable.
If you are not coming with the intention of a summer holiday, you can catch better deals for accommodation between October and March.
Finally, let me warn you that Peniche is extra popular and extra crowded in certain seasons. For example, it can be packed to the brim during Christmas, New Year, Carnival (held between February and March), Easter and all the surfing events held throughout the year.
Disclaimer: When you purchase something through the following links I get a little kickback with no extra cost to you at all. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you. So it’s a win-win!
Things to Do in Peniche
If you have at least an extra day in Lisbon (and a car, we’ll get into that below), or let’s say you’re going to travel to the central Portugal, passing between Lisbon and Porto, you won’t regret stopping by Peniche.
Since Peniche is a small peninsula boldly jutting out into the tidal Atlantic Ocean, this sweet challenge creates the most admirable and diverse landscapes with magnificent natural occurrences such as Cabo Carvoeiro cliffs, Berlengas Archipelago and beaches like Baleal and Consoloção that extend from one point to another. This being the case, Peniche gives opportunity for many diverse activities in nature.
But of course, the treasures that Peniche harbours are not limited only to that.
Let’s see what we can do and discover in this beautiful fishing city:
Explore the City Centre (Best Attractions of Peniche)
The first best thing to do in Peniche, just like any other destination, would be to discover the city.
Although in warmer seasons you’d be tempted to throw yourself onto the sandy beaches, give this city a chance for a little exploration since you’ve already come all this way. Especially doing nature walks painted with unique vistas reminds one something that we often forget: That we’re part of the nature.
What can you see in Peniche? Well, here are my suggestions:
Fort of Peniche (Fortaleza de Peniche)
Let’s start with one of the most prominent landmarks of the city; Fort of Peniche, also known as Fortress of São Francisco.
This well-preserved citadel is one of the most iconic figures of the city and hard to miss with its dominating yellow round walls.
Being at a privileged access point in the centre of the western shoreline to other cities -ashore or inland- of the country, Peniche was frequently under attack by foreign privateers. Therefore on King Manuel I’s orders the construction of the fort began in 1557 as a part of Portugal’s maritime defence and it played a pivotal role in Portugal’s maritime history for a long time.
In the 19th century the Fort lost its function as a military defence square and finally in 1934, during the Estado Novo period (It’s a crime if you are a long-time visitor of this blog and still ask what this is. Let’s make this right now HERE), it became a political prison where activists against the dictatorial regime was held. A lot of prominent figures were imprisoned here wherefore the Fort continued to have an important part especially in this episode of Portuguese history.
If you walk closer to the Fort (on the sidewalk in front of it before you reach the main gate), you’ll notice a little cove that opens toward the Ocean with an arch in the solid defensive structure (see below photo). This is called the Praínha de São Pedro, and rumour has it, was used to bring political prisoners with little boats in the dead of the night to the fort.
Nowadays the Fort of Peniche serves as National Museum of Resistance and Liberty and I have tried at least 3 times to visit it in the past 4 years when writing my article about the regime and Carnation Revolution. But alas, it is under a never-ending construction. So if you’re interested, make sure it’s open -if it even does- before you go.
RESTLESS TIP 1: If you walk on the groyne that extends along the shore, you’ll also get a very good view of the Fort from a bit afar for some cool shots.
*2: Also you can get very cool angles of the city from atop the pedestrian bridge on Avenida Porto de Pesca. (Most bloggers keep these kinds of secrets in safe deposit boxes in Switzerland, but not your Restless girl 😎)
Cabo Carvoeiro
Cabo Carvoeiro (means “Charcoal burner Cape”) , is the westernmost point of Peniche on the land.
Because evidences the constituting limestone and rock formations are thought to be 200 -180 million years old (evidences of early Jurassic period, where the continents were one piece as Pangea were found here; just the thought of it is mind-blowing), this dangerous beauty bears a great heritage value both geologically and landscape-wise.
Right across Cabo Carvoeiro you’ll see a separate rock formation called “Nau dos Corvos” (“Ship of Ravens” – btw did I tell that I’m in love with how Portuguese name things?)
Dangerous as much as it is beautiful, Cabo Carvoeiro, has seen many ships being wrecked after crashing against its cliffs. That may be why Nau dos Corvos seems like a shipwrecked vessel and named as such. And that is also why a lighthouse has been erected here in 1790 which has been warning sailors ever since.
RESTLESS TIP 3: A way to visit Cabo Carvoeiro & Nau dos Corvos is by walk from ashore, from one of the viewpoints nearby or by walking along the cliff om the designated paths. But I think the best way to admire this natural beauty is from the boat on your way to Berlengas.
Gruta da Furninha
Moving from Cabo Carvoeiro another important historical heritage worth mentioning is Gruta da Furninha; a natural cave that is located on the cliffs between the Fort and Cabo Carvoeiro.
Also known as Dominique’s Cave, traces of prehistoric inhabitants were found in this cave.
(There is a story behind the name but Peniche is a city of stories and legend. If I try to tell them here, we may lose the main purpose here. Therefore I separated an ALTERNATIVE PENICHE GUIDE IN THE LIGHT OF LOCAL STORIES AND LEGENDS. This way we don’t deviate a lot)
Other Natural Structures Worth Seeing
Peniche is really rich when it comes to rock structures that occurred naturally and provide an observation deck where you can admire the view, such as:
- Varanda de Pilatos
- Miradouro da Cruz dos Remédios
- Miradouro do Revelim dos Remédios
These are the cliffs and shapes formed by rocks along the same coastline.
Each of them is truly a very interesting and beautiful formation. The power and beauty of nature fills one with an indescribable feeling of shudder, wonder and admiration wherefore I suggest a trip to these spots if you have time.
The Harbour
Peniche is still one of the largest traditional fishing ports of Portugal and all roads lead to the Port of Peniche and it
Although it seems calmer and just like a usual ports in many other fishing cities, it is still nice to take walk along it.
Also it is surrounded by amazing seafood restaurants that you may have hard time chosing from. (More about food in Peniche in the “gastronomy” section below) So after you feast at one (or more) at those Restaurants, you may appreciate a light walk along the sea shore anyway and for that you may throw yourself onto the port for a nice afternoon walk with a beautiful view.
Other Spots Worth Mentioning for Walk and/or Photography
of the most beautiful activities, really. Plus you can discover -apart from those mentioned above- many natural beauties such as:
- Praia do Portinho da Areia Norte
- Ilhéu da Papôa.
- Baleal and Consolação Beaches (Although mostly frequented for beach and surfing activities, other beaches such as Baleal and Consolação are another good options to do nature walks framed by landscapes truly worth seeing.
All these spots are also great to watch sunset and to get some cool shots without too much effort, that you can later make a great display of. 😉
Take a Boat Trip to Berlengas Islands
Visiting the Berlengas Archipelago is another activity that I recommend you add to your “to-do” list in Peniche.
Due to its special fauna and flora, Berlengas are protected as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2011 and therefore called Berlengas Nature Reserve. (Which is why there are special rules and procedures to be followed when going and visiting the island. So, do not miss the BERLENGAS GUIDE especially if you intend to go.) As there is quite a bit of information to share about visiting Berlengas and the Archipelago itself, I’ve deemed necessary to prepare a separate guide about it. (HERE)
(A LITTLE WARNING: Visiting Berlengas, which seems, at first glance, like just a piece of land covered with steppe on a vast ocean, unless you’re a geologist or botanist or something and may be disappointing to some of you, as it will seem no different than any other aimless tootle. So read THIS LITTLE GUIDE before deciding if you liked it or not.)
(And a LITTLE NOTE: You may have noticed by now how much I love sharing additional notes and historical information about the places I visit. This is not to seem like a miss know-it-all. I, too, spend hours, days, even months in some cases, to put this information together. Why? Because when you visit a place with a certain level of knowledge, a door to a completely different dimension opens in front of you. Hence foundation of this blog: To make it worth the places you go, the time you spend, the expenses you make, so that you can say “I’m glad I’ve come across before my trip” or “I feel as if I’ve visited that destination myself.” What can a travel writer do more for you? 😎 CLICK HERE for more information about the vision and mission of our company.🙂 )
Enjoy Beach Time
If you are one for the sea-sun-sand trio, you won’t leave empty-handed from a visit to Peniche.
Peniche can be quite crowded in high season, especially at the beaches. Though, you can still find a spot. The beaches I can recommend are as follows:
- Praia do Baleal
- Praia da Consolação
- Praia da Cova da Alfarroba
- Peniche de Cima.
- Praia da Gambôa.
- Praia dos Supertubos/ Praia do Medão Grande (this is a beach that also hosts the surfing championship. Below)
- Praia de São Bernardino
(Hey, Siri, play “Weezer – Island In The Sun”)
Surf (or take lessons)
There’s a reason why Peniche is called the “Capital of Wave”.
Famous for its excellent tubular waves that provide world-class surfing conditions, Peniche is one of the castles of surfing in Portugal and a popular destination for surfing enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, Peniche’s beaches have something for everyone.
If you want to try surfing while you’re here, there are many good schools in novice surfers (like me) can take surfing lessons.
Roughly speaking, the prices start from 35-40 Eur for 90 minutes. You can do your own research via their websites to choose the one fits best. (Alternatively, you can search here.)
You can also rent a surfboard and wetsuit, beware of the surfing etiquette and vital safety rules for your own good (and others’). (Public service ad: Avoid dangerous mistakes such as getting in front of another surfer at.all.costs.)
Praia dos Supertubos, (a.k.a. Praia do Medão Grande) is the beach where MEO Rip Curl is held every year, where professional surfers from all over the world compet. Pro surfers also flock to Peniche regularly within the scope of WSL (World Surf League).
If you want to see the views from the event, you can find a short video of the 2023 Rip Curl right below.
Explore Day Trips
Embark on enchanting day trips from Peniche to explore the rich cultural tapestry of nearby cities.
Just a short drive away, Óbidos beckons with its medieval charm, where cobblestone streets wind through well-preserved walls and vibrant bougainvillea adorns historic buildings. Immerse yourself in Portugal’s past as you wander through the castle and savor the sweet taste of Ginja liqueur.
Alternatively, venture to Caldas da Rainha, known for its therapeutic hot springs and lively markets. Delight in the intricate ceramic creations at the Bordallo Pinheiro factory, showcasing the region’s artistic flair.
For a coastal escape, head to Nazaré, a picturesque fishing village with a breathtaking coastline and renowned surf breaks. Whether exploring ancient fortresses, indulging in local delicacies, or basking in the sun on pristine beaches, these day trips promise a captivating journey through Portugal’s diverse landscapes.
Coffee, Food & Drink
(What & Where to Eat & Drink in Peniche)
Coffee (and Cafés/Coffeeshops)
Java House: Let’s start with a café-bar that I visit almost every time I visit Peniche.
For me, Java House is one of the pearls of Peniche, where you can enjoy both as a coffeehouse and bar. We loved the atmosphere and everything we tried. There is also another place called Cafetaria Puro Cake Lab belonging to the same group. I left it down immediately.
Pastelaria Princesa Do Mar: This is a genuine traditional Portuguese pastry shop. Don’t go with an expectation of a hipster café. Traditional shops with local and delicious are much valuable findings for me than “fancy” places that always offer the same model of tastes. So, if you are happy with a modest, warm environment, a delicious coffee and tasty snacks, this is the place for you. Go and experience what I call the geniune “Portuguese break”.
Cafetaria Puro Cake Lab: This also belongs to the Java House I mentioned above, I didn’t know when I stopped by but the employees told me about it later. If you want to enjoy a nice coffee but also do something for your sweet tooth , this is one of the places that will make you happiest in Peniche. Plus, the atmosphere.
Celeiro Café: Another “coffeehouse” kind of place but a more “modest” one. You can find nice snacks, delicious desserts, and good coffee. If you consider the price-performance balance, you will leave here happy.
There are two other places that I haven’t had time to try yet, but are on my list as they look nice. I’ll leave it here in case you want to check before I do. I’ll leave my personal comments here after I tried myself. (If they out of the list, you’ll understand what it means.)
- Pastelaria Calé II
- Simpsons Coffee
Food
Peniche is still one of the largest traditional fishing ports of Portugal. Naturally, it comes with delectable seafood offerings.
Even if you’re not big on seafood, I do suggest giving it a try here. In particular, the “Caldeirada,” a traditional Portuguese fisherman’s stew, which is like O.M.G. It comes in a huge casserole, and first your eyes, and then your mouth, are delighted with all the beauty of the sea in one spoon.
Among the dishes that you’ll kick yourself later if you skip on trying here, are fish soup and grilled fish (sardines in particular), which in my opinion is the best form of cooking fish. (Trust your Restless girl. Making such a simple dish so delicious is the real skill, guys.)
Peniche’s most well-known seafood restaurants line the waterfront, but I didn’t open a whole section just to cut a corner, suggesting one of the restaurants around the harbour.
Still, if you want to have a view and enjoy your meal with sea view, my suggestion would be the following restaurants (the pricelists are usually left outside the doors so you can see for yourself whether it is within your budget. Also, as a side note, these places can get really crowded during peak season or on certain days. Try to make a reservation beforehand.)
- Restaurante Rocha
- A Sardinha
- Entre Amigos
If you don’t mind sacrificing the sea view and moving a bit inwards the back streets for good food, I suggest the following restaurants that were quite satisfying in terms of taste, service quality and price:
- S. Pedro Peniche: A perfect casual Portuguese restaurante. Great taste, affordable prices… What else do you need?
- Marisqueira Mirandum: As is evident from its name, a seafood restaurant. It’s a bit far from the centre (5 min by car, 15 min by foot) but boy oh boy… It is worth to go.
Restaurante D’Raiz: As well as its seafood, D’raiz is one of the popular restaurants for its delicious meat and vegan/vegetarian options as well. It’s right behind the restaurants at the waterfront.
Restaurante Páteo da Saudade: Páteo da Saudade has a balanced menu that consists of seafood, meat and vegetable in equal shares. If you’re looking for a delicious alternative other than seafood, or a place to go with a group that has different preferences you may check this one.
Cervejaria Tà-Se Bem: A beer hall / pub-like place where you can enjoy delicious snack like seafood plates with your beer. Very good for a little afternoon break.
Though I haven’t had time to try myself, there are two other restaurants I marked because of the good reviews that I have heard from other friends. I will leave them here as alternatives and update the guide with my personal comments later on:
- Tasquinha do Santana
- The Marina
RESTLESS TIP 4: Every once in a while, check out the website: thefork.pt. You may catch some deals up to 30% off.
Night Out
For a night out in Peniche, I suggest following places:
- Java House: “A must for every household” kinda place, really. Meets every need. Day&night fun atmosphere, cocktails are successful… (Java House <3)
- Bar N.1 Peniche: This one comes for craft beer lovers. (I’m not very interested in craft beer, so I won’t rate it. But I’ve heard good comments about the place from craft beer crowd.) I just like to hang out for their cocktails and snacks.
- Winebar Sabores & Peripécias: A top-notch tapas-bar. The service deserves a standing ovation. Wide variety of wines; tapas that make me drool even as I write about them… I wish I could have some now.
Accommodation
As a highly preferred holiday destination, Peniche offers a wide range of accommodations, from beachfront hotels to cozy guesthouses. What to choose among them depends highly on your preferences, priorities, and budget.
That’s why I’ve listed the different options below.
For group stays:
- Wow Space Peniche
- Nossa Casa Peniche
These two are guest houses located right in the Peniche peninsula. Especially if you are going with 5-6 people and considering renting a house, you can consider these two options.
Luxury / Splurge
MH Peniche: A 4 star hotel. If you want to spend a little more but have a way more comfortable staycation, you can this one out. In the heart of Peniche, the hotel has everything you need and maybe a little bit more.
Mid-range:
- Star Inn: A “spick and span” hotel with a perfect location. Has facilities catering to almost every need. Breakfast is really nice. Satisfying in every way.
- Mercearia d’Alegria & Ó da Casa : Colorful guesthouses right in the heart of Peniche. If you want to have a pleasant stay and socialize a little in a cozy atmosphere, I recommend these two.
- RIDE Surf Resort & Spa: A pop-art decorated resort with its own restaurant and spa. Located closer to Baleal beach.
- Hotel Neptune (3*):Located 500 meters from Consoloçao beach and a 5-minute drive from the centre, this 3-star hotel is clean, very comfortable and has all the facilities.
Economical /Budget Friendly
If you are looking for a place that is clean, satisfactory in terms of facilities, at perfect reach from every attraction, and also pocket-friendly (what else a traveller can ask for anyway), here are my suggestions:
- Sea Garden Residencia
- Selina Peniche
- Brisa do Mar II (I think they have another place closeby but this is the “II” one.)
- West Side Guest House
- Casa do Campo
- More Options
If all these options are not enough for you, click here for other accommodation options in Peniche.
Search Accommodation Deals in Peniche
Transportation
CAR: Located 100 km north of Lisbon, The easiest way to get to Peniche, will be by car, whether yours or rented. The A8 highway, gets you to Peniche in about an hour. Especially if you want to visit attractions, having a car – yours or rented – will help you get around much easier in Peniche.
BUS: Alternatively, buses connect Peniche to major cities like Lisbon and Porto. However, again, to discover the city easily, having a car would be a much better option.
TRAINS: There is no direct train option to Peniche. Although there’s a train line that goes as near as 25 away from Peniche, trying to have a transfer from there to Peniche would be nothing less than painful.
Useful Links & Resources
To ease out all the chores of planning a trip, I suggest following platforms that I frequently use:
- Booking.com : For booking accommodation in a faster, safe and secure way.
- GetYourGuide : For the best tours around attractions and having fun activities. You can also skip the lines by purchasing tickets to the main monuments in advance. (Another great option is Viator)
- TripAdvisor : For booking tables at any restaurant worldwide.
- DiscoverCars: For the best rent-a-car deals.
CHECK HERE for all my travel resources and tools to plan your trip.
All right folks! That’s all I have to tell you about Peniche. I hope it will be useful for your trip. (Even if you read it without leaving your seat, at least we visited a different place with you today.)
Don’t forget to share your comments with me and share this guide with somebody that you’d like to take with you.
Mystery Behind Nazaré’s Giant Waves Explained
Renowned for their sheer enormity and raw power, Nazaré’s waves can reach staggering heights during peak swells and stand as some of the largest and most formidable waves on the planet. But how do these giant waves occur? Find out here >>>
Visiting Berlengas: Don’t Go Before you Check This Guide
Everything you must know about a trip to Berlengas. What to see & do the procedure to visit and more. Don’t miss this practical guide!
Alternative Peniche Guide In the Light of Legends & Stories
Everything you must know about a weekend in Peniche. Suggestions on what to see and do, where to eat and where to stay. Don’t miss my practical guide!
Travel Guide to Nazaré
Welcome to Nazaré, a charming fishing village turned international destination renowned for its towering waves, rich culture, and idyllic scenery.
Dear Reader,
If the contents, tips and quality guides you find on the Restless Coffeeholic are useful and pleasing, it’s because I prepare them upon hours/days of work. Although I am the happiest to know that my content is useful for you, please remember that maintaining this website comes at a cost to me. So if you want to support my work you can:
- Buy me a coffee <3
- Use the affilliate links in related blog posts. (Note that this does not come with any extra cost to you. The prices of the products/services remain the same.)
(This post may contain affiliate links.)
ENG 
TR