Madeira

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Madeira's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Funchal
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Mercado dos Lavradores to taste local fruits and pastries. Stroll through the charming streets of Funchal, enjoying the vibrant ambiance.

afternoon
:

Head to the Monte Palace Gardens for lush views and stunning landscapes. Don’t forget to take the traditional toboggan ride back down to Funchal.

evening
:

Relax at a local restaurant and savor some traditional Madeiran dishes, such as espetada. Take a leisurely walk along the harbor to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Levada Walks
morning
:

Embark on a guided levada walk in the enchanting Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the fresh air and scenic beauty while watching for local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Pause for a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by stunning waterfalls and terraced mountains. Continue exploring more of these ancient irrigation channels.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest. You might want to visit a local bar to enjoy a glass of Madeira wine.

day 3
Beach Day at Porto Moniz
morning
:

Drive to Porto Moniz and unwind at the natural volcanic swimming pools. The clear blue waters offer fantastic views of the ocean.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant specializing in fresh seafood. Afterward, explore the nearby aquarium to learn about local marine life.

evening
:

Head back to Funchal, stopping at a viewpoint for panoramic sunset photos. Dine at a cozy restaurant and indulge in some local specialties.

day 4
Monte Palace Gardens & Botanical Garden
morning
:

Start your day visiting the Monte Palace Gardens, filled with exotic plants and beautiful sculptures. Explore the various themed gardens at your leisurely pace.

afternoon
:

Next, visit the Madeira Botanical Garden to see a diverse collection of flora. There are magnificent views of the city and the ocean from this location.

evening
:

Return to Funchal for dinner and enjoy a night of traditional Fado music at a local venue. Immerse yourself in the soulful tunes while enjoying your meal.

day 5
Cable Car Adventure
morning
:

Take the cable car from Funchal to Monte, soaking in breathtaking views of the city below. Once at the top, wander through the picturesque streets of Monte.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with stunning panoramic views of the island. Afterward, visit the beautiful Church of Our Lady of Monte.

evening
:

Return to Funchal on the cable car as the sun sets, providing a magical backdrop. Enjoy dinner at a local tavern to finish your day.

day 6
Whale Watching Experience
morning
:

Join a guided boat tour for an unforgettable whale watching experience in the Atlantic. Spot dolphins and various whale species in their natural habitat.

afternoon
:

After the tour, head to the village of Câmara de Lobos for lunch at a local eatery. Enjoy the picturesque views of the bay.

evening
:

Return to Funchal and relax at your hotel or enjoy a walk along the promenade. Choose a nice restaurant to enjoy some more local cuisine.

day 7
Wine Tasting Day
morning
:

Visit a local vineyard to learn about the winemaking process and sample Madeira wines. Enjoy the scenic vineyard views and relax.

afternoon
:

Afterward, take a short drive to the town of São Vicente and visit the volcanic caves. Explore the unique formations and learn more about Madeira’s geology.

evening
:

End your day with a special dinner at a restaurant renowned for wine pairings. Engage in conversations with locals about the unique wines of Madeira.

day 8
Pico do Arieiro Hike
morning
:

Start your day early with a hike to Pico do Arieiro, the island's third-highest peak. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch and hike toward Pico Ruivo for more incredible vistas along the way. Take plenty of photos as you traverse the scenic paths.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation for a well-earned rest after your adventurous day. Treat yourself to a hearty dinner to refuel.

day 9
Discovering Eastern Madeira
morning
:

Drive to the eastern part of Madeira and visit Santana, famous for its traditional A-frame houses. Explore the charming village and capture some beautiful photographs.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local tavern featuring regional dishes. Then, head to the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço for a scenic hike.

evening
:

Return to Funchal and enjoy the vibrant nightlife or relax at your hotel. Choose a dining spot that offers a culinary experience of Madeiran cuisine.

day 10
Cultural Day in Funchal
morning
:

Start by visiting the CR7 Museum dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo, a famous Madeira native. Learn more about his journey and achievements.

afternoon
:

Head to the Madeiran Story Centre to delve into the history of the island. Engage with interactive displays and exhibitions.

evening
:

Conclude your cultural day by dining in a traditional Madeiran restaurant. Consider trying the famous bolo do caco bread to accompany your meal.

Discover Madeira

Read more in our Madeira 2024 Travel Guide.

Madeira Travel Guide