Madeira

Day Trips

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

day 1
Arrival in Funchal
morning
:

Arrive at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in Funchal. Take some time to settle in and soak up the stunning ocean views. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café to taste the famous Madeira banana bread.

afternoon
:

Explore the vibrant streets of Funchal, visiting the Mercado dos Lavradores, where you can sample tropical fruits and local delicacies. Visit the beautiful Botanical Gardens, showcasing Madeira’s rich biodiversity and stunning flora. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant with delicious seafood.

evening
:

Indulge in a traditional Madeiran dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like Espetada and Bolo do Caco. Stroll along the harbor promenade, soaking in the sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean. End your evening by enjoying a glass of Madeira wine at a cozy bar.

day 2
Discovering Funchal
morning
:

After breakfast, take a cable car ride to Monte for spectacular panoramic views of Funchal. Visit the serene Monte Palace and its enchanting gardens filled with exotic plants and art pieces. Don’t forget to try a thrilling toboggan ride downhill through the charming streets.

afternoon
:

Return to Funchal and visit the CR7 Museum dedicated to the famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. Explore historic sites such as the Sé Cathedral and the charming Old Town. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery and try the famous Madeira fish stew.

evening
:

Have dinner at a restaurant that offers live Fado music, a traditional Portuguese music genre. Participate in a local culinary workshop to learn about Madeiran cuisine. Experience Funchal’s nightlife by visiting a few local bars or their famous nightclubs.

day 3
Excursion to Porto Moniz
morning
:

Set off early for a scenic drive to Porto Moniz, known for its incredible natural volcanic swimming pools. Stop at viewpoints along the way to capture breathtaking photos of cliffs and coastlines. Upon arrival, take a refreshing swim in the natural pools surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the local aquarium to learn more about the diverse marine life of Madeira. Savor a delicious lunch featuring local dishes at a seaside restaurant. Spend some time exploring the quaint village and its picturesque streets.

evening
:

Return to Funchal and unwind with a stroll along the marina. Enjoy a sunset dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the ocean. Reflect on the day's adventures while sipping a cocktail as night falls.

day 4
Levada Walks
morning
:

Embark on a guided Levada walk, exploring Madeira’s unique irrigation channels and stunning landscapes. Enjoy the tranquility of nature as you hike through lush forests and terraced fields. Marvel at breathtaking waterfalls and vibrant flora along the way.

afternoon
:

Stop for a packed picnic lunch surrounded by nature, enjoying the peace and quiet of the landscape. Continue your hike to discover more of Madeira's natural beauty, perhaps spotting unique bird species. Return to your accommodation in the late afternoon to relax and refresh.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Madeiran restaurant, opting for local dishes such as Scabbard fish. Share stories and photographs from your day’s adventure with fellow travelers. Spend the evening taking in the local ambiance at a nearby square, perhaps with live music.

day 5
Adventure in Santana
morning
:

Travel to Santana, known for its traditional A-frame houses, where you will explore this picturesque village. Take a walk through the lush landscape, with mountains and greenery all around. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café and try a typical Madeiran pastry.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in its rich biodiversity on a guided nature walk. Learn about the flora and fauna unique to Madeira as you traverse its trails. Afterward, have lunch at a charming eatery in Santana, savoring regional dishes.

evening
:

Return to Funchal and relax at your hotel or enjoy an evening at Mercado dos Lavradores for a taste of local life. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby restaurant, trying Madeiran specialties. Engage with locals and enjoy the artistic atmosphere of Funchal’s nightlife.

day 6
Pico do Arieiro
morning
:

Take an early trip to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, for spectacular sunrise views. After soaking in the breathtaking sights, embark on a hiking adventure along the trails that connect to Pico Ruivo. Revel in the stunning vistas as you ascend through the mountainous terrain.

afternoon
:

Stop for a picnic lunch on the trail or visit a nearby café to refuel after your hike. Continue exploring the area with more scenic viewpoints and perhaps spot endemic wildlife. Capture images of the dramatic landscapes that define Madeira's rugged terrain.

evening
:

Return to Funchal and indulge in dinner at a local tavern, tasting regional dishes. Then, join a guided night tour to experience Funchal’s illuminated sites and vibrant evening life. Relax with a nightcap and share stories with fellow travelers, recounting the day's adventures.

day 7
Canyon and Coast at Ponta de São Lourenço
morning
:

Set out for Ponta de São Lourenço, a stunning nature reserve that offers a different side of Madeira's landscape. Begin your day with a scenic hike along the easternmost peninsula, where you can marvel at dramatic cliffs and ocean views. Keep an eye out for different bird species and other wildlife.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a nearby beach café, where you can taste fresh fish dishes while enjoying the ocean breeze. Spend time relaxing on the beach or exploring the coastline further, taking in the unique geology of the area. Capture unforgettable photographs of the stunning vistas.

evening
:

Head back to Funchal and unwind at your hotel. Choose a waterfront restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy delicious Madeiran cuisine while gazing over the serene ocean. End the day with a walk along the coast, feeling the gentle ocean breeze as you reflect on your adventures.

day 8
Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Visit the Madeira Story Centre to learn about the island’s rich history and culture. Take your time to explore the engaging exhibits and gain insights into the island's past. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a nearby café as you prepare for the day's explorations.

afternoon
:

Explore the design and craftsmanship behind the famous embroidery and wickerwork that Madeira is known for at artisan workshops. Visit the historical Santa Clara Monastery and admire its architecture and gardens. Savor lunch at a local restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine.

evening
:

Join a cultural experience with traditional Madeiran folk dances and music performances. Have dinner at a restaurant that features local wines paired with artisanal dishes. Reflect on the rich traditions of Madeira as you engage with the local community.

day 9
Departure
morning
:

Spend your last morning in Madeira enjoying a final stroll through Funchal's city center, perhaps picking up some last-minute souvenirs. Visit any favorite spots you may have missed or return to your preferred café for breakfast. Prepare for your departure while taking in the last views of the beautiful island.

afternoon
:

Head to the airport for your departing flight, reflecting on the incredible experiences and memorable moments you've had during your stay. Keep an eye out for stunning landscapes one last time as you travel. Consider planning your next trip back to this paradise.

evening
:

Depending on your travel schedule, enjoy a relaxing evening after your arrival home reminiscing about your time in Madeira. Look through the photographs you took to relive the moments from your adventure. Consider sharing your experiences with friends and family to inspire them to visit.

Discover Madeira

Read more in our Madeira 2025 Travel Guide.

Madeira Travel Guide