Funchal, Madeira-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrival: Arrive at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus (Line 209) to your accommodation in the city center
  • Accommodation: Check-in at Hotel Madeira Palace or similar

Afternoon

  • Visit: Explore Funchal’s historic center, including the:
    • Forte de São Tiago: A 16th-century fort that now houses a museum
    • Mercado dos Lavradores: A bustling marketplace with local produce and handicrafts
    • Rua do Infante: A charming street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy traditional Madeiran cuisine at Restaurante Casa Velho, known for its seafood dishes
  • Nightlife: Head to the nearby Praia Formosa beach or take a stroll along the coastal promenade, Rua dos Aranhas

Day 2: Natural Wonders

Morning

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus (Line 103) to the Parque Natural da Madeira ( approx. 10-15 minutes)
  • Visit: Explore the:
    • Monte Palace Tropical Garden: A beautiful botanical garden with an impressive collection of plants and trees
    • Curral dos Romeus: A scenic viewpoint offering stunning views of Funchal

Afternoon

  • Hike: Take a guided hike ( approx. 2-3 hours) to the nearby:
    • Pico do Facho: A mountain peak with panoramic views of Madeira
  • Relaxation: Return to your accommodation for some rest and relaxation

Evening

  • Dinner: Savor local specialties at Restaurante Quinta da Casa Velha, known for its creative takes on traditional dishes
  • Nightlife: Enjoy live music or a drink at the hotel’s bar or nearby bars in Funchal

Day 3: Beach Day and Water Activities

Morning

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus (Line 203) to the Praia Formosa beach ( approx. 5-10 minutes)
  • Beach Time: Spend the morning soaking up the sun, swimming, or trying water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding

Afternoon

  • Visit: Explore the nearby:
    • Garden of the Quinta da Casa Velha: A beautiful botanical garden with a variety of plants and trees
    • Casa do Povo: A 19th-century house turned museum, showcasing traditional Madeiran architecture

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy fresh seafood at Restaurante O Barrigada, known for its wide selection of fish and seafood dishes
  • Nightlife: Take a stroll along the coastal promenade or visit one of Funchal’s many bars or clubs

Day 4: Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Visit: Explore the:
    • Museu CR7: A museum showcasing Cristiano Ronaldo’s personal history and football career
    • Palácio dos Marmorejos: A beautiful palace turned cultural center, hosting various events and exhibitions

Afternoon

  • Music: Attend a traditional Fado music performance at Café do Forte
  • Shopping: Visit the nearby:
    • Mercado dos Lavradores: A bustling marketplace with local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs
    • Rua do Infante: A charming street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants

Evening

  • Dinner: Savor traditional Madeiran cuisine at Restaurante Casa Velho, known for its seafood dishes
  • Nightlife: Enjoy live music or a drink at the hotel’s bar or nearby bars in Funchal

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Check-out: Check-out of your accommodation and depart from Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus (Line 209) to the airport
  • Departure: Fly back home, bringing memories of your wonderful time in Funchal!

Things to Know

  • Weather: Madeira has a subtropical climate with mild temperatures and high humidity. Be sure to pack accordingly.
  • Language: Portuguese is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Euro is the local currency.
  • Safety: Funchal is generally a safe city, but as with any place, be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

Tips

  • Respect local customs: Madeira is a predominantly Catholic island, so dress modestly when visiting churches or attending cultural events.
  • Try local cuisine: Be sure to try traditional Madeiran dishes like bolo do caco, espetadas de moroço, and arroz doce.
  • Explore beyond Funchal: Consider taking day trips to nearby towns like Camacha, Ribeiro Frio, or Santana.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Available throughout the city, but be sure to agree on a price before starting your journey.
  • Buses: A convenient and affordable way to get around, with multiple lines connecting Funchal to surrounding areas.
  • Walking: Funchal is generally a walkable city, especially in the historic center.

Accommodation

  • Hotel Madeira Palace: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of Funchal, offering stunning views of the city and sea.
  • Other options: Consider staying at other hotels or apartments in Funchal, such as Hotel Quinta da Casa Velha or Airbnb.

Food and Drink

  • Restaurante Casa Velho: A traditional Madeiran restaurant serving a wide range of local dishes.
  • Other options: Try other local restaurants, cafes, or bars throughout Funchal, such as O Barrigada or Café do Forte.

Nightlife

  • Funchal’s nightlife: Enjoy live music, drinks, and company at one of Funchal’s many bars or clubs.
  • Other options: Consider attending a traditional Fado music performance at Café do Forte.

Note: The above itinerary is just a suggestion and can be tailored to your interests, preferences, and time constraints. Be sure to research and book any necessary activities or reservations in advance to avoid availability issues. Have a wonderful trip!