Madeira 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Funchal Airport (FNC)

Upon arrival at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC), collect your luggage and transfer to your accommodation in Funchal.

Check-in to Hotel

Check into your luxurious hotel and take some time to settle in and freshen up.

Enjoy the botanical gardens and amenities of your hotel.

Stroll Along Funchal Promenade

Take a leisurely walk along Funchal's scenic promenade, enjoying the ocean views and the gentle sea breeze.

This is a great way to orient yourselves with the city.

Many cafes and bars along the promenade if you wish to stop for a drink.

Welcome Dinner in Funchal

Enjoy your first dinner in Madeira at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Madeiran cuisine such as Espetada (beef skewers) or Black Scabbard fish.

Explore the charming streets of the old town for various restaurant options. Reservations are recommended for popular spots.

Funchal Cable Car to Monte

Take a scenic cable car ride from Funchal to Monte, enjoying panoramic views of the city and the ocean.

The cable car offers stunning views and is the most convenient way to reach Monte. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d2542740-Reviews-Telefericos_da_Madeira-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Explore Monte Palace Madeira

Wander through the magnificent Monte Palace Tropical Garden, featuring diverse plant collections, exotic birds, and stunning art installations.

Allow ample time to explore the vast gardens and various exhibits. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d196135-Reviews-Monte_Palace_Madeira-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Lunch in Monte

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the local eateries in Monte village before heading back down to Funchal.

Madeira Cook Experience

Immerse yourselves in Madeiran culture with a hands-on cooking experience, learning about local ingredients and preparing traditional dishes.

A fantastic way to taste Madeira from a local perspective. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d9811672-Reviews-Madeira_Cook_Experience-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Dinner in Funchal Old Town

Dine in the charming Funchal Old Town, known for its painted doors and diverse restaurants.

Visit Pico Do Arieiro

Drive to Pico Do Arieiro, one of Madeira's highest peaks, for breathtaking panoramic views above the clouds. An unforgettable photo opportunity.

Dress warmly as temperatures can be significantly cooler at this altitude. Check weather conditions beforehand for best visibility. Access is generally free.

Madeira Wonder Hike Tour

Embark on an 'off-the-beaten-path' day adventure tour with Madeira Wonder Hikes to discover hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes.

Choose a trail suitable for your fitness level.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and snacks. Guides provide insights into local flora and fauna. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d19437667-Reviews-Madeira_Wonder_Hikes-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Dinner at a Local 'Levada' Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for traditional Madeiran food, perhaps near a 'levada' (irrigation channel) path you explored.

Safari Madeira Island 4x4 Tour

Experience an adventurous 4x4 tour, visiting outstanding and untouched areas of the island, including off-road tracks and magnificent scenery.

A great way to see parts of the island not easily accessible otherwise. Tours often include stops at viewpoints and small villages. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d6474438-Reviews-Safari_Madeira_Island-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Visit Faja dos Padres

Descend by cable car to Faja dos Padres, an organic farm, beach, and restaurant located by the sea.

Enjoy the serene environment and unique access.

Access is exclusively via cable car (separate cost). Enjoy a refreshing drink or a light snack at the restaurant overlooking the ocean. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189166-d2073833-Reviews-Faja_dos_Padres-Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Dinner with Ocean Views

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant offering beautiful ocean views, perhaps in a charming coastal town near Funchal.

Explore Mercado dos Lavradores

Visit Funchal's vibrant Farmers' Market, a bustling hub of local produce, exotic fruits, flowers, and fish.

Engage with local vendors and soak in the atmosphere.

Great for trying local fruits and experiencing daily life in Funchal. It's especially lively on Friday mornings.

Funchal City Centre Walk

Take a self-guided walk through Funchal's historic city center, visiting key landmarks such as the Funchal Cathedral (Sé do Funchal) and the Municipal Garden.

Many beautiful streets and historic buildings to discover. Don't miss the charming Rua de Santa Maria with its painted doors.

Lunch in Funchal

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a cafe or restaurant in Funchal, perhaps trying a traditional bolo do caco (garlic bread) sandwich.

Coastal Exploration with Bravelanders

Engage in an 'epic moment' with Bravelanders, a local provider known for exploring the beautiful islands. Consider a scenic boat trip or a coasteering adventure if you're feeling adventurous, or a more relaxed coastal tour.

Bravelanders offers various unique experiences. Check their offerings for the type of adventure that suits you best. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189167-d21184077-Reviews-Bravelanders-Funchal_Madeira_Madeira_Islands.html?m=66827

Relaxed Evening & Dinner

Enjoy a final evening in Funchal with a relaxed dinner, reflecting on your explorations of the city and its surrounding nature.

Pico Do Arieiro

Start your day with breathtaking panoramic views from Pico Do Arieiro, one of Madeira's highest peaks.

Famous for its stunning landscapes and photo opportunities.

Dress in layers as temperatures can be cooler at higher altitudes. The views are spectacular, especially in the morning.

North Coast Scenic Drive

Embark on a picturesque drive along Madeira's rugged north coast.

Enjoy winding roads, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages. Consider stopping at viewpoints for photos.

A rental car is recommended for flexibility. Be prepared for narrow and winding roads.

Lunch in a Coastal Village

Savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in one of the picturesque villages along the north coast, trying fresh seafood or traditional Madeiran dishes.

Safari Madeira Island

Embark on an adventurous 4X4 vehicle tour to discover the magnificent and often untouched areas of Madeira, taking you off-the-beaten-path for unique scenery.

This tour offers a thrilling way to see the island's diverse landscapes.

Dinner in Funchal

Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner at a restaurant in Funchal, reflecting on the day's island adventures.

Monte Palace & Cable Car

Ascend to Monte by cable car (Telefericos da Madeira) for stunning views, then explore the magnificent Monte Palace Tropical Garden, featuring diverse plants, art, and Asian-themed gardens.

The cable car offers fantastic panoramic views of Funchal. Allow plenty of time to explore the vast gardens.

Carreiros Do Monte Toboggan Ride

Experience the exhilarating and traditional Monte Toboggan ride, descending from Monte in a wicker basket sled guided by two men in white uniforms – a truly unique Madeiran experience!

This is a must-do for a dose of fun and history. The ride ends partway down the hill, so you'll need a taxi or bus to return to Funchal.

Lunch in Funchal

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Funchal city center after your exciting morning activities.

Faja dos Padres

Take a cable car down to Faja dos Padres, an idyllic organic farm, restaurant, and beach by the sea.

Enjoy the tranquil setting and beautiful coastal views.

A perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying fresh local produce. The cable car ride itself is scenic.

Leisure & Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy some free time to relax at your hotel, or explore Funchal's vibrant streets for some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Farewell Dinner

Indulge in a special farewell dinner to celebrate your memorable 7-day journey through the beautiful island of Madeira.