Funchal, Madeira - 6 Days Itinerary

Arrive & Check-in

Arrive in Funchal, pick up your rental car (if not already done), and check into your accommodation.

Settle in and prepare for your Madeira adventure.

Ensure you have all necessary documents for car rental pick-up. Your accommodation is centrally located for easy access to Funchal's attractions.

Funchal Walking Tour

Join a free walking tour to discover the history, culture, and hidden gems of Funchal's city center with a local guide.

Get an excellent overview of the city.

Although free, it's customary to tip your guide. This is a great way to orient yourselves in the city. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d13423619-Reviews-Free_Walking_Tours_Funchal-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Blandy's Wine Lodge Tour

Immerse yourselves in the world of Madeira wine with a guided tour and tasting at Blandy's Wine Lodge, a historic institution in Funchal.

Learn about the production process and history of this fortified wine. Reservations are often recommended for tours.

Dinner in Funchal

Enjoy a traditional Madeiran dinner at a local restaurant in Funchal.

Try Espetada (beef skewers) or fresh seafood.

Drinks at Revolucion Cocktail Bar

Cap off your first day with expertly crafted cocktails at the lively Revolucion Cocktail Bar, known for its vibrant atmosphere.

A popular spot for evening drinks and socializing. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d11750609-Reviews-Revolucion_Cocktail_Bar-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Surreal West Tour

Embark on an immersive sightseeing tour exploring the enchanting landscapes of western Madeira, featuring waterfalls, crystal-clear natural pools, and mystical forests.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and adventure, including opportunities for swimming. Remember to bring swimwear and towels. Product Code: 5589148P1. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Funchal/Surreal-West-Tour-Waterfalls-Natural-Pools-and-Enchanted-Forests/d22388-5589148P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Dinner in Ribeira Brava

After your western tour, stop for dinner in the charming coastal town of Ribeira Brava, known for its relaxed atmosphere and seaside restaurants.

Enjoy fresh seafood or other local delicacies before heading back to Funchal.

Evening Stroll in Funchal

Take a leisurely evening stroll along Funchal's waterfront or through its historic streets, enjoying the illuminated city.

Sunrise in Areeiro Peak

Experience the breathtaking sunrise from Pico do Areeiro, one of Madeira's highest peaks, with a guided tour ensuring you get the best views and comfort.

Dress warmly as temperatures at the peak can be very low, even in May. This tour includes hotel pick-up. Product Code: 340329P1. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Madeira/Sunrise-in-Areeiro-Peak/d5392-340329P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Late Breakfast/Brunch

After the early start, enjoy a relaxed late breakfast or brunch in Funchal.

Gastro Hike (Private Tour)

Combine cultural insights, mountain hiking, and local gastronomy on this private gastro-hike.

Eat like a local in authentic restaurants and discover the island's biodiversity.

This is a great way to experience Madeiran cuisine and nature. The tour is private, allowing for customization. Product Code: 165412P1. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Funchal/Gastro-hike/d22388-165412P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Relaxed Evening in Funchal

Enjoy a leisurely evening in Funchal.

Perhaps try a restaurant you spotted earlier or simply relax at your accommodation after a day of exploration.

Funchal Cable Car to Monte

Take the scenic cable car ride from Funchal up to Monte, enjoying panoramic views of the city and coastline as you ascend.

The cable car offers breathtaking views and is a convenient way to reach Monte. Purchase a return ticket or a one-way if you plan to take the toboggan ride down. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d2542740-Reviews-Telefericos_da_Madeira-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Explore the magnificent Monte Palace Tropical Garden, featuring exotic plants, oriental gardens, and stunning art collections.

Allow ample time to wander through this extensive and beautifully curated garden. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d196135-Reviews-Monte_Palace_Madeira-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Lunch in Monte

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Monte, offering traditional Madeiran dishes.

Madeira Botanical Garden

Visit the Madeira Botanical Garden, home to a vast collection of indigenous and exotic flora, offering beautiful landscaping and panoramic views.

You can take another cable car or a short taxi ride from Monte to reach the Botanical Garden. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d196085-Reviews-Madeira_Botanical_Garden-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Return to Funchal & Dinner

Take the cable car back down to Funchal or use your car, then enjoy a relaxed dinner in the city.

Private Half Day Island Tour

Enjoy a personalized half-day tour with a local guide to explore more of Madeira Island.

Customize the route to focus on specific western or southern highlights you wish to revisit or discover.

This private tour allows for flexibility. You can focus on areas like Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, or further west, depending on your interests. Product Code: 153233P1. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Funchal/Half-day-tour/d22388-153233P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Visit Cabo Girão Skywalk

If not covered in a previous tour, drive to Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, for spectacular views from its glass-floored skywalk.

A must-see viewpoint for incredible photo opportunities. Free parking available.

Lunch in Câmara de Lobos

Head to the picturesque fishing village of Câmara de Lobos for lunch.

This charming village was a favourite spot of Winston Churchill.

Enjoy fresh fish and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the harbour.

Relaxation Time

Return to Funchal for some free time.

Relax at your accommodation, do some souvenir shopping, or enjoy a quiet moment by the sea.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Funchal, reflecting on your wonderful adventures in Madeira.

Sunrise at Pico Areeiro

Experience the stunning sunrise from Pico Areeiro, one of Madeira's highest peaks, offering panoramic views above the clouds.

This is an early start but incredibly rewarding.

Dress warmly as temperatures can be very cold at this altitude, even in May. Check local sunrise times. Book the 'Sunrise in Areeiro Peak' tour for a guided experience.

Explore Santana Traditional Houses

Drive towards Santana to admire its iconic triangular, thatched-roof houses, a unique symbol of Madeira's heritage.

Take some photos and learn about the local traditions.

Lunch in Santana

Enjoy a traditional Madeiran lunch in Santana, perhaps sampling local specialties like 'espetada' (beef skewers) or 'bacalhau' (codfish dishes).

Blandy's Wine Lodge Tour

Return to Funchal for a tour and tasting at Blandy's Wine Lodge, learning about the history and production of Madeira wine.

A perfect cultural and gastronomic experience.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Take some time to pick up last-minute souvenirs or local crafts in Funchal's city center, near Blandy's Wine Lodge.

Departure Preparation

Head back to your accommodation to gather your belongings, check out, and drive to the airport for your departure.