Funchal Madeira 6 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC)
  • Transfer to your hotel in Funchal city center ( approx. €20-€30 by taxi or bus)
  • Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores, a bustling marketplace selling local produce, flowers, and handicrafts
  • Walk to the nearby São Francisco Garden, a beautiful botanical garden with stunning views of the ocean
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Madeiran cuisine at Restaurante O Paparico (€10-€20 per meal)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Museu Cravo museum, showcasing Madeiran art and history
  • Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the Praia Formosa, a picturesque beach with calm waters

Day 2: Explore Funchal’s Historic Center

  • Morning: Visit the Cathedral of Funchal, a beautiful church dating back to the 16th century
  • Walk through the narrow streets and alleys of the historic center, taking in the charming architecture and local shops
  • Stop by the Museu de Arte Sacra da Madeira (€5 entry), featuring an impressive collection of sacred art
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at Café do Barão, a cozy spot serving traditional dishes (€10-€20 per meal)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Queimadas Viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of Funchal and the surrounding landscape

Day 3: Levada Walks

  • Morning: Take a guided walk along one of Madeira’s famous levadas, man-made irrigation channels ( approx. €20-€30 per person)
  • Explore the stunning natural beauty of the island, including waterfalls, valleys, and forests
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or stop at a local café for some refreshments (€5-€10 per meal)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Monte Palace Museum (€7 entry), showcasing Madeiran art and history in a beautiful palace setting

Day 4: Beach Day

  • Morning: Spend the day relaxing on one of Funchal’s beautiful beaches, such as Praia Formosa or Cabo Girão
  • Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports (optional)
  • Lunch: Try some beachside dining at Restaurante O Castelo (€15-€30 per meal)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Cabo Girão Viewpoint, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean

Day 5: Wine Tasting

  • Morning: Visit a local wine cellar, such as Quinta do Monte Jardim, for a wine tasting experience ( approx. €20-€30 per person)
  • Learn about Madeira’s famous fortified wines and taste some exceptional varieties
  • Lunch: Enjoy some traditional Madeiran cuisine at Restaurante O Paparico (€10-€20 per meal)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Funchal Market, a bustling marketplace selling local produce, flowers, and handicrafts

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
  • Transfer back to Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (approx. €20-€30 by taxi or bus)
  • Depart from Madeira, bringing back memories of your amazing trip!

Things to Know

  • Language: Portuguese is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Euro (€) is the local currency.
  • Weather: Madeira has a mild climate, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 22°C throughout the year.
  • Transportation: Taxis and buses are available for transportation around Funchal and the island.
  • Tips:
    • Be sure to try some traditional Madeiran cuisine, such as espetada (skewers of meat) or bolo do caco (a type of cake).
    • Don’t miss the stunning views from the viewpoints and levadas.
    • Respect local traditions and customs.

Accommodation

  • Hotel Porto Mare: A 5-star hotel located in Funchal city center, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service. ( approx. €150-€250 per night)
  • Hotel Madeira Palace: A 4-star hotel situated near the historic center of Funchal, featuring elegant rooms and a relaxing atmosphere. (approx. €80-€120 per night)

Restaurant Recommendations

  • Restaurante O Paparico: A traditional Madeiran restaurant serving delicious local cuisine. (approx. €10-€20 per meal)
  • Café do Barão: A cozy café offering a variety of traditional dishes and refreshments. (approx. €5-€10 per meal)

Other Tips

  • Be sure to try some of the local handicrafts, such as wickerwork or embroidery.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to take a guided levada walk or visit one of the many viewpoints on the island.
  • Respect local traditions and customs, especially during festivals and celebrations.