Madeira – tailor-made travel plan is my original proposal for a five-day journey across 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 for those 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 is in inferior condition, I still believe it’s worth taking a short walk there.
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, the central square of Funchal. It hosts various social and cultural events. 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. 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. Numerous restaurants and cafes offer regional and international cuisine in the vicinity of the marina. Along the waterfront are shops and art galleries where you can purchase local products, souvenirs, or artwork created by local artists. We take a break for ice cream and continue our exploration of Funchal.
CR7 Museum
In the afternoon, we head to the CR7 Museum, 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, career and sporting achievements.
Santa Catharina Park
After visiting the CR7 Museum, we headed to 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.
It forms a picturesque backdrop encircled by abundant greenery, vibrant blooms, and meticulously groomed lawns. 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 visit the Tiago Restaurant on-site.
- CR7 Museum: It is 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: It is open for guided tours on specific days and times. It is closed on Sundays and holidays. Check madeira.gov.pt for more.