Madeira – tailor-made travel plan, is my original proposal for a five-day journey across the charming Madeira. It is a magical place where mountains meet the ocean, and the landscape is filled with lush greenery and blooming gardens. I have prepared this plan with those in mind who wish to explore this fascinating island’s corners. Below is a detailed itinerary and practical information to facilitate your exploration of Madeira.
Madeira Day 1: Discovering the Funchal
We begin our journey with a tour of Funchal.
São Tiago Fortress
We begin our city exploration at São Tiago Fortress, located along the waterfront of Funchal. This historical fortress, built in the 16th century, once served as a defensive structure for the city. It is considered a national monument of Portugal’s history. Since 1992, it has been home to the Funchal Museum of Modern Art. Inside, there is a vast collection of Portuguese art from the 1960s. This museum is regarded as one of the top five museums in Portugal.
While strolling along the fortress walls, one can admire beautiful views of the ocean and the surrounding area. There is also a restaurant on-site. Although the fortress itself is in very poor condition, I still believe it’s worth taking a short walk here.
Old Town and Cathedral Church
Next, we venture into the charming streets of the Old Town – Zona Velha, Funchal’s oldest district. We meander through its picturesque alleys steeped in history and culture.
We arrive at Município Square, which is the central square of Funchal. It’s a place where various social and cultural events take place. At its centre stands the City Hall, a distinctive building with intriguing architecture.
Our next stop is the impressive Funchal Cathedral, also known as Sé. Dating back to the late 15th century, the cathedral is one of the few buildings that have remained virtually untouched since the early colonization of Madeira. Since 1910, it has been classified as a national monument. We enter inside to admire its beauty and uncover the history of this historic site.
Rua de Santa Maria
We make sure not to miss Rua de Santa Maria, famous for its beautiful door paintings, creating an open-air art gallery. As Funchal’s oldest and most artistic street, it is a must-visit despite the crowds.
São Lourenço Palace
On the way, we pass by São Lourenço Palace – Madeira’s historical treasure trove brimming with artistic and cultural riches. It was built in the 16th century under King Dom Manuel I’s orders, this charming palace is classified as a National Monument. Inside, we explore a wealth of Portuguese and European decorative artworks and a gallery of royal portraits.
Funchal Marina
We return to the waterfront and stroll along the Marina. The Marina is situated in one of the most beautiful spots in Funchal, surrounded by mountains and the open Atlantic Ocean. The views are spectacular, both on land and at sea.
In the vicinity of the Marina, charming avenues and squares can be found. While strolling along the waterfront, one can delight in the sights of luxurious yachts, palm trees, and picturesque alleyways.
This is a place where both local fishing boats and luxurious yachts dock. In the vicinity of the Marina, numerous restaurants and cafes offer regional and international cuisine. Along the waterfront are shops and art galleries where you can purchase local products, souvenirs, or artworks created by local artists. We take a break for ice cream and continue our exploration of Funchal.
CR7 Museum
We head to the CR7 Museum in the afternoon, dedicated to the famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. In front of the museum entrance stands a bronze statue (measuring 3.40 meters in height including the pedestal) depicting Ronaldo in his classic pose, just before taking a free kick.
At the CR7 Museum, visitors can learn more about Cristiano Ronaldo’s life, his career and sporting achievements.
Santa Catharina Park
After visiting the CR7 Museum, we head to the nearby Santa Catharina Park, whose entrance is located across the street. Santa Catharina Park is one of the oldest parks in Funchal, with its history dating back to the 18th century when it was transformed into a green space for residents and visitors alike. The park offers a tranquil atmosphere and beautiful landscapes.
Encircled by abundant greenery, vibrant blooms, and meticulously groomed lawns, it forms a picturesque backdrop. Here, you can encounter some of the island’s small residents, such as colourful lizards, swans, or herons.
It’s a magical place, with breathtaking views that will leave you speechless. Don’t miss out on a visit to this park! ♥
This concludes our first day in the city, allowing for tranquillity and rejuvenation before further adventures on Madeira.
Travel Tips:
- São Tiago Fortress: The museum has been closed to visitors since 2023 until further notice, but you can still enjoy a visit to the Tiago Restaurant on-site.
- CR7 Museum: Open daily from 10:00 to 17:00, with additional hours on Sundays or holidays by prior notification on social media. Visit museucr7.com for more.
- Santa Catharina Park: Open daily from 6:00 to 21:00.
- São Lourenço Palace Museum: Open for guided tours on specific days and times. It is closed on Sundays and holidays. Check madeira.gov.pt for more.
Day 2: Monte Hill and Botanical Garden
Mercado dos Lavradores
We start our second day on Madeira with an unforgettable visit to Mercado dos Lavradores, the famous market known for its local flavours and vibrant colours. Here, we stroll through cheerful stalls brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, flowers, and other regional products. It is a fantastic opportunity to immerse in the local culture, taste traditional dishes, and purchase authentic Madeiran souvenirs.
Monte Hill
Next, we spend over an hour queuing for tickets to the cable car, which will take us to Monte Hill. Finally, our turn arrives, and we board the panoramic Teleferico cable car. As we ascend the hills of Funchal, we are greeted with spectacular views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. It is a remarkable attraction offering unforgettable vistas. Waiting in line for this experience is worthwhile.
Jardim Tropical Monte Palace
Upon reaching Monte Hill, we discover the charms of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden – a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Spanning 70,000 square meters, the garden is filled with exotic plants from around the world, including cycads dating back 200 million years.
The garden is home to peacocks, a symbol of various cultures, as well as ducks, turtles, Koi fish, rare cycads, and endemic Madeiran species. The arrangement of plants and animals is carefully planned to highlight their uniqueness and cultural significance.
Within the botanical garden lies an extensive array of artistic treasures, encompassing Portuguese stone arches, Buddhist sculptures, and decorative elements inspired by Chinese and Japanese traditions. Visitors can also admire a collection of minerals and African sculptures.
Additionally, there is a building that once housed a hotel and now it is managed by a cultural foundation.
One of the highlights is a vase that entered the Guinness World Record in 1992 as the tallest vase globally. It measures 5.345 meters in height and weighs 555 kg. The vase was designed and crafted in South Africa by the Faiarte company, with artists from Brazil and Portugal collaborating on the project.
The Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a place to relax, unwind, and marvel at the beauty of nature and art. Strolling along its picturesque pathways, visitors can lose track of time and immerse themselves in the charms of this magical place. Undoubtedly, it’s one of the most fascinating attractions on the Madeira island, not to be missed during a trip to the “Madeira, the island of eternal spring”.
We wander through intricately designed paths, amidst exotic plants, cascades, and lagoons, immersing ourselves in the tranquillity and beauty of this magical garden.
Teleferico to Jardim Botanico
For those interested, there is an option for an exciting downhill sledge ride from Monte Hill, providing an adrenaline rush and unique memories.
Alternatively, for those wanting to continue exploring Monte Hill, there is an option to take a second cable car to the Botanical Garden (Jardim Botanico). The ticket booth for this cable car is a short distance from the Tropical Garden cable car to the right of the main exit.
This journey also offers magnificent views of the bay, bridges, and wild nature, making it an attraction.
Jardim Botanico – Botanical Garden
This beautiful garden is home to thousands of plant species, including exotic flowers, palms, and trees. We explore their beauty while learning fascinating stories and facts about the local flora. It is a unique place renowned for many distinctive features.
“A Botanical Wonderland: Exploring Biodiversity, Beauty, and Culture at the Madeira Botanical Garden”
- Flora richness: The botanical garden is a haven for thousands of plant species, both endemic and imported. You can find plants here that you will not encounter anywhere else in the world.
- Unique endemic species: Madeira is an island of remarkable biodiversity, and the Botanical Garden is where you can see many endemic plant species found only on this island.
- Botanical education: The garden serves an educational purpose, showcasing the diversity and significance of plants for ecosystems. Informational signs and guides provide insights into each plant. There are also maps of the entire garden at several locations, so you can check where you are and where to go next at any time.
- Beautiful floral compositions: The garden is designed for aesthetics and harmony. Various sections of the garden present different garden styles, creating beautiful and inspiring compositions.
- View of Funchal: Located on a hill, the garden offers picturesque views of Funchal and its surroundings. It is a perfect place to relax and admire the panorama.
- Protection of endangered species: The botanical garden actively participates in programs for the protection and restoration of endangered plant species, which is essential for preserving biodiversity.
- Interesting cultural events: The garden is often the venue for various cultural events, such as art exhibitions, concerts, or workshops, making it a place not only for botany enthusiasts but also for culture lovers.
- Diverse climatic sections: With diverse climatic sections, the botanical garden showcases the diversity of ecosystems, from tropical to Mediterranean.
Visiting “Jardim Botanico” is not just about encountering the beauty of nature but also an opportunity for learning, relaxation, and understanding the island’s unique natural heritage. This place is a must-visit ♥
Funchal Marina evening stroll
After an eventful day, we return to Funchal and take a relaxing stroll along the charming Marina, along Av. Do Mar. The walking paths are adorned with colourful flowers, flowerbeds, low shrubs, trees, and towering palms.
Along the way, we pass numerous sculptures and monuments. One of them is a bust of Mahatma Gandhi, erected in Funchal in 2019 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of his birth. Gandhi visited Funchal in 1906 during his journey from London to South Africa.
Another point of interest is a bronze statue depicting a woman standing high on a stone pedestal, surrounded by flat slabs. Autonomy of Madeira (Monumento à Autonomia) represents the celebration of the region’s autonomy.
Next, we sit down in one of the restaurants overlooking the bay and enjoy a unique dinner. Here, it’s worth trying local culinary specialities, such as fresh seafood or traditional Madeiran dishes, while admiring the vast sea view.
Good to know
- Tickets for Teleferico to Funchal in 2022 cost 12.50 euros for one-way and 18 euros for a return trip. The cable car operates daily throughout the year, except on holidays, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. You can find current information and prices on the madeiracablecar.com website.
- Tickets for Teleferico to Jardim Botanico cost 8.50 euros per person in 2022, and the last cable car departs at 4:50 p.m. From the gardens to downtown Funchal, you can return by public transportation, buses 29, 31, and 31A. Buses depart every 35 minutes, but you can get a detailed timetable at the ticket window where you buy tickets for Teleferico Jardim Botanico.
- Tickets and visiting Monte Palace Tropical Gardens: In 2022, the entrance ticket to the garden costs 12.5 euros. The garden is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and the Museum from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Check madeiracablecar.com for more.
- Toboggan ride. The route is 2 km long, and the ride takes 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the speed. The sledges can accommodate a maximum of 3 people simultaneously. Prices in 2022 were 25 Euro for a single ride, 30 Euro for two people, and 45 Euro for three people. The toboggan ride ends halfway up Monte Hill. Here you can take a taxi to the city centre for 10 euros. This service is available from Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Note that tickets for this attraction are only available at ticket booths on-site. You cannot buy these tickets online, so tickets sold elsewhere are not accepted. It’s worth following the official website carreirosdomonte.com, as you can only buy tickets online here in the future.
Day 3 – Adventure in the North of the Island
After breakfast, we drove to the northeast part of the island. This wonderful journey takes us through beautiful and lush nature, dense forests, and picturesque levadas. We enjoy the breathtaking views that mesmerize with the richness of colours and scents.
Ribeiro Frio
As we drive through the heart of the island, along the ER103 road, we arrive at the quaint mountain village of Ribeiro Frio. The road leading to this village winds through the forest, providing an unforgettable experience.
Ribeiro Frio is renowned for its beautiful forests and the charming Ribeiro Frio Natural Park, where you can find scenic hiking trails and picturesque waterfalls. An extraordinary viewpoint called Balcoes offers a stunning view of the Ribeira da Metade valley. Also, this is the starting point of the Levada do Furado trail to the 11 km distant Portela.
Santana and Madeira Theme Park
Our next stop is the town of Santana, famous for its traditional houses with colourful wooden shutters. We stroll through narrow streets lined with traditional shops selling local products and crafts.
Next on our itinerary is the Madeira Theme Park (Parque Tematico da Madeira), where we discover the fascinating world of the island’s history, culture, and nature – “Madeira in a nutshell”. It includes attractions such as the Traditional Houses Village, Farm Park, Fantastic Journey, and Junior Pavilion. There is also a huge garden with endemic species and mini levadas. Visitors can ride an ox-drawn cart or a mini tourist train. You can also watch an animated shadow play illustrating the discovery story of the island or paddle boats on a small pond with golden Koi carp.
This is the perfect place to delve into Madeira’s secrets. The park opened in 2004 and covers an area of 7 hectares. We spent almost an hour there. It’s an interesting place for both adults and children. It’s worth planning some time for this attraction.
There is also a map on-site allowing you to check the locations of each attraction and plan your visit accordingly.
Porto da Cruz
We continue our journey to the charming town of Porto da Cruz, known for its beautiful beaches and picturesque cliffs. The town is small, but surfers love Praia da Lagoa with its black sand. Residents also enjoy the Piscinas da Porto da Cruz bathing area, where the pools are filled with seawater.
We stop for a moment to admire the ocean panorama and try the traditional Madeiran drink – poncha. It is the perfect place for a short break and to catch our breath before continuing our journey.
Ponta de Sao Lourenco
On the east side of Madeira, you cannot miss Ponta de Sao Lourenco – a peninsula full of magnificent landscapes and spectacular views. We reached our destination, which we plan to visit today. We admire the rocky formations, sea caves, and wild nature. It is the perfect place for a walk and to admire the extraordinary diversity of nature. You can plan to spend the whole day here, and the views will surely not disappoint you.
On the way back, at the first bend, we head towards Miraduro Ponta de Sao Vicente. It is a viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline.
This full-day car trip through the northeastern part of Madeira can take about 8-10 hours, depending on the pace of travel and the number of stops. During this journey, you will have the opportunity to experience the island’s diversity – from picturesque villages to wild nature and breathtaking views. Immerse yourself in Madeira’s tradition, culture, and beauty, collecting unforgettable memories and captivating photographs.
As you drive through the middle of the forest, slow down, roll down the windows, and feel how beautifully the forest smells. Stop at a parking lot and give yourself time to enjoy this place – it is worth it!
Good to know
- Madeira Theme Park (Parque Tematico da Madeira) is open all year round from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 18:00. The entrance ticket costs 10 euros (in 2023). Check parquetematicodamadeira.pt for more.
Day4: Pearls of the Western Islands
After breakfast, we drove to the northwest part of the island. We intend to see, among other things: beautiful valleys, the world’s highest cliffs, and an artificial sandy beach.
Nun’s Valley
We started with the breathtaking Nun’s Valley, surrounded by lush vegetation and picturesque waterfalls. This village sits in a crater, and winding mountain roads lead there. It is worth stopping at the Eira do Serrado viewpoint, which guarantees a stunning panorama view of the valley.
Due to its unusual location, the village served as a refuge for people fleeing pirate attacks. A monastery was built there, hence the name of the valley. Currently, the village is connected to the main road by a tunnel. The area is also famous for its edible chestnuts, which are a staple of the local cuisine.
Camara de Lobos
Our next stop was Camara de Lobos, a charming town full of charm and attractions for visitors. Its name means “chamber for sea wolves” and refers to the historical presence of sea lions in the surrounding waters. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, and spending a few hours in Camara de Lobos can be an incredibly pleasant experience.
The picturesque fishing port deserves special attention, enchanting with its traditional colourful boats, called “barcos de cesto“. Strolling along the waterfront, you can admire breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding cliffs.
Camara de Lobos has a pleasant Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind. You can enjoy coffee or local wine in one of the charming cafes, observing the town’s life and enjoying a moment of peace. Restaurants in Camara de Lobos offer delicious dishes based on local products such as fresh seafood, traditional fish, and other specialities. Try local delicacies and discover the richness of Madeira’s culinary traditions.
While in town, it is worth taking a stroll along the charming seaside promenade, enjoying the sea breeze and views of the harbour and surrounding cliffs. It is a perfect place for walks and relaxation, as well as for taking beautiful photographs.
Miradouro da Torre
Near the town, many viewpoints offer breathtaking views of the entire area. It is worth visiting, among others, Miradouro da Torre, which offers a view of Camara de Lobos and the nearby cliffs.
Teleferico do Rancho
Not far from Miradouro da Torre is the Rancho cable car and another remarkably interesting viewpoint. The Rancho cable car is one of the steepest cable cars in Madeira, with a height of 321m. The name “Rancho” comes from the fact that the cable car is used daily by local farmers who use it to reach their fields located at the foot of the cliffs, just above the ocean. Tourists can also use the cable car, with a ticket price of 10 Euro per person. After descending, you can start a 4.5km hike, about 2 hours long.
The cable car operates daily from 8:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 19:30, except on Tuesdays when it operates from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:30.
Address: Estr. de Santa Clara 272, Câmara de Lobos, Portugal
Calheta Beach
The next stop on our itinerary was a relaxing visit to the magical seaside resort of Calheta Beach. This unique resort offers perfect conditions for relaxation and enjoying unforgettable moments on the warm sand and in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic.
Established in 2004, this idyllic beach oasis stands as Madeira’s inaugural man-made shoreline, featuring imported golden sands sourced from Morocco.
This unique combination of nature and human ingenuity makes visitors feel like they are in a real paradise. The beach is 100 meters long, providing plenty of space for sunbathing and fun.
Not only does the beauty of the beach attract tourists here. The beach is clean and safe, as it is surrounded by two breakwaters that provide protection against storms and guarantee safe and peaceful bathing. The beach belongs to a nearby hotel but is free to access. On-site, there are two restaurants, several cafes, changing rooms, showers, parking, a supermarket, and a volleyball court. There is also the possibility of renting sun loungers and umbrellas at a reasonable price.
When we visited the beach in mid-June, part of it was still closed, and trucks were delivering sand there before the start of the season.
Miraduro do Fio
Next, we went to Miraduro do Fio, a viewpoint that provided us with a spectacular view of the high cliff wall and the vast ocean.
Porto Moniz
Further on, we continued our journey to Porto Moniz, a charming town that offers many interesting attractions. The biggest and most unique attraction is the natural volcanic pools with crystal-clear and transparent water. These amazing pools, created by nature, enchant tourists with their unique charm.
In addition to the pools, it is also worth visiting the charming fishing port and immersing yourself in the local life and culture. While strolling through the picturesque streets, you can discover colourful houses and cosy cafes that create a unique atmosphere in this place. Porto Moniz is also an excellent place to enjoy local cuisine. Restaurants and taverns offer fresh seafood, traditional dishes, and delicious desserts.
Driving towards Sao Vicente, after passing through another tunnel, we stop along the way to enjoy another beautiful view.
Sao Vicente
The last stop was the charming village of Sao Vicente. You can stay here longer and visit the fascinating Volcanic Caves. However, before the trip, it is worth checking if the caves are open to visitors. They were closed in 2020 and remain inaccessible to tourists throughout the year 2023.
We return to Funchal in the evening. We stay in the vicinity of our hotel, away from the city centre, and enjoy another breathtaking sunset.
Day 5: Funchal Beach and farewell to Madeira
Praia do Gorgulho – Gavinas
Before noon, we headed to the nearby beach – Praia do Gorgulho – Gavinas, which ranks 13th out of 27 beaches in the Madeira region. It is located just 2.9 km from the city centre of Funchal, making it an ideal place to relax after intense sightseeing.
This beach has small coves with crystal turquoise water and grey stones, so it is recommended to wear special shoes. It is worth noting that even during the season, Praia do Gorgulho – Gavinas is not crowded.
The entire coastline of the beach is accessible to everyone, and the beach offers amenities such as a restaurant, ice cream shop, and toilets. It is the perfect place not only for swimming or sunbathing but also for active leisure activities, such as kayaking.
Access to the beach is convenient, and the distance from the road is less than 500 meters. Additionally, parking is available directly at the beach, making access to this charming place easy.
Complexo Balnear do Lido
In the afternoon, we went to Balnear do Lido, a popular pool complex in Funchal. This complex was also located near our accommodation, so we could leave the car in the hotel parking lot.
Lido is the most famous swimming complex in Funchal, located on the west side of the city. It attracts visitors with its unique amenities. It offers two saltwater pools, replenished daily, one for adults and one for children. The adult pool has impressive dimensions – 50 meters in length and 25 meters in width.
Additionally, guests can enjoy direct access to the sea. The complex is built on several levels, offering various perspectives and breathtaking views of the ocean. It is the perfect place to spend an active day in the water and relax in Madeira’s sunny climate.
This place is open year-round, and the beach is guarded. On-site, there is a rental service for umbrellas and loungers.
Check frentemarfunchal.pt for more.
Miraduro Pico dos Barcelos
To end the day, we went to the Miraduro Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint. From Funchal, you can reach it by public transport (Buses: 9, 12, 13, 48).
This viewpoint is situated in the parish of Santo António, which is also home to the headquarters of the football club “Andorinha,” where Cristiano Ronaldo’s career took off.
The observatory is situated at an altitude of 355 meters and is positioned so that visitors can admire Funchal, the sea, and the Rocky Mountains inland.
The Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint also allows, on days with good visibility, to see the Desertas Islands, a group of three small volcanic islands: Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, and Bugio.
There is a cafeteria and a small playground for children on-site. Magnificent views, worth visiting.
It was a perfect day and an ideal end to our short stay in Madeira. A trip that provided us with many unforgettable moments and beautiful memories.
Madeira – my other posts
I also invite you to check out my other posts about Madeira:
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