Madeira - 4 Days Itinerary

Arrive Funchal Airport

Arrive at Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC) from Lisbon.

Rental Car Pick-up

Collect your pre-booked rental car, essential for exploring Madeira at your own pace.

Ensure you have all necessary documents (driving license, credit card for deposit).

Drive to Ribeiro Frio

Enjoy a scenic drive from the airport into the heart of Madeira's laurel forest region to Ribeiro Frio.

Check into Accommodation

Settle into your guesthouse in the tranquil village of Ribeiro Frio.

Dinner in Ribeiro Frio

Enjoy a traditional Madeiran dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Try espetada (meat skewers) or trout, a local specialty.

Drive to Pico do Arieiro

After breakfast, drive to Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira's highest peaks, for breathtaking views.

Pico do Arieiro Viewpoints

Take a light hike around the summit area of Pico do Arieiro, soaking in the dramatic landscapes and cloud inversions.

You can walk short distances along the PR1 trail for different perspectives without committing to the full strenuous hike to Pico Ruivo.

Dress in layers as temperatures can change quickly. Wear sturdy shoes. There's a cafe and shop at the peak.

Drive to Rabaçal

Journey from the high peaks to the green Rabaçal valley, the starting point for the PR6 levada walk.

Lighter PR6 25 Fontes Walk

Embark on a lighter version of the famous PR6 '25 Fontes' levada walk.

Focus on the easier path to the stunning Risco Waterfall, enjoying the lush scenery without tackling the full, longer descent to the 25 Fontes lagoons. The paths are well-maintained.

Wear good walking shoes. Bring water and a snack. The start point for the walk is often accessed via a shuttle bus or a steep descent on foot. Consider the shuttle for time and energy saving.

Drive to São Vicente

After your hike, drive across the island to the charming coastal town of São Vicente on the North Coast.

Check into São Vicente Hotel

Check into your chosen accommodation in São Vicente, ready to explore the North Coast.

Dinner in São Vicente

Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at a restaurant overlooking the ocean in São Vicente.

Taste the local 'espada' (black scabbard fish).

Seixal Black Sand Beach

Enjoy the unique black sand beach and natural volcanic swimming pools of Seixal.

A perfect spot for photos and a refreshing dip if the weather permits.

Drive to Ponta de São Lourenço

Embark on a scenic drive along the coast towards the dramatic eastern tip of Madeira.

Ponta de São Lourenço Coastal Walk

Take a leisurely walk along the rugged coastal path of the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula.

This easternmost point of Madeira offers starkly different, but equally stunning, volcanic landscapes and incredible ocean views. You can do a shorter version of the PR8 trail.

Bring water and sunscreen, as there is little shade. The views are spectacular, even from the initial parts of the trail.

Drive to Funchal

Head back towards the capital city of Funchal for your final night.

Check into Funchal Hotel

Check into your accommodation in Funchal.

Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Take the cable car up to Monte and immerse yourself in the exquisite Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

Explore its vast collection of exotic plants, unique artwork, and Japanese gardens.

Allow plenty of time to explore the expansive gardens. Combine with a cable car ride from Funchal waterfront for scenic views.

Farewell Dinner Funchal

Enjoy a delicious farewell dinner in Funchal, exploring its diverse culinary scene.

Explore restaurants in the Old Town for traditional atmosphere or near the Marina for modern dining.

Breakfast in Funchal

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel or a local café in Funchal before checking out.

Many hotels offer early breakfast options. You can also find charming local bakeries (Padarias) for fresh bread and coffee.

Mercado dos Lavradores

Visit Funchal's vibrant Farmers' Market, a bustling hub for fresh produce, exotic fruits, flowers, and local crafts.

Experience the lively atmosphere and discover Madeiran specialties.

It's best to go in the morning for the freshest selection. Be prepared for a sensory overload of colors and scents!

Museu de Fotografia da Madeira

Explore the Madeira Museum of Photography - Atelier Vicente's, based on a nineteenth-century photography studio.

Delve into the island's visual history through the lens of four generations of photographers.

A fascinating glimpse into the past and the evolution of photography on Madeira. Check current opening hours.

Lunch in Funchal

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Funchal's many restaurants, savoring local cuisine.

Consider trying a traditional 'Espetada' (beef skewers) or fresh seafood.

Free Time & Packing

Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping, a final stroll, or simply relax at a café.

Return to your accommodation to finalize packing and prepare for departure.

Drive to Funchal Airport

Drive your rental car to Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC), allow ample time for traffic and car return.