Madeira Via Lisbona

Madeira is a stunning destination, and combining it with a stop in Lisbon makes for an exciting trip. Here’s a fun and engaging 6-day itinerary that will keep both you and your teenagers entertained!

Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon

Morning:

• Arrive in Lisbon and check into your hotel. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a pastel de nata (a delicious Portuguese custard tart) at Pastéis de Belém to kick off your trip!

Afternoon:

• Explore the historic Belém district. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower. The architecture is stunning, and there are plenty of photo ops for your teens!

Evening:

• Head to the LX Factory, a trendy area filled with shops, street art, and eateries. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants and let the teens explore the cool shops and art installations.

Day 2: Lisbon to Madeira

Morning:

• Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then take a stroll through the Alfama district. The narrow streets and colorful buildings are perfect for some family photos!

Afternoon:

• Catch a flight to Madeira (about 1.5 hours). Once you arrive, check into your hotel and take a moment to relax.

Evening:

• Head to Funchal’s marina for dinner. Try some local dishes like espetada (grilled meat skewers) or fresh fish. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront.

Day 3: Exploring Funchal

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market). The vibrant colors and local produce will fascinate your teens. Don’t forget to try some local fruits!

Afternoon:

• Take the cable car up to Monte. The views are breathtaking! Once at the top, visit the Monte Palace Gardens. The teens will love the exotic plants and the toboggan ride back down to Funchal!

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner in Funchal. Consider a restaurant with a view, like Restaurante do Forte, where you can enjoy the sunset over the ocean.

Day 4: Adventure Day

Morning:

• Get ready for some adventure! Book a canyoning or levada walk tour. The levadas (irrigation channels) offer stunning hikes through the lush landscape, and canyoning is a thrilling experience that your teens will love!

Afternoon:

• After your adventure, relax at one of the natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz. The volcanic rock formations make for a unique swimming experience.

Evening:

• Return to Funchal and have a casual dinner at a local pizzeria or burger joint. Teens often appreciate a more laid-back meal after a day of adventure!

Day 5: West Coast Exploration

Morning:

• Take a day trip to the west coast of Madeira. Visit Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, and walk on the glass skywalk for an adrenaline rush!

Afternoon:

• Continue to the charming village of Câmara de Lobos, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch. This picturesque spot is perfect for some family photos, too!

Evening:

• Head back to Funchal and enjoy a traditional Madeiran dinner. Try the local poncha (a traditional drink) for the adults, while the teens can enjoy some refreshing juices.

Day 6: Relax and Return to Lisbon

Morning:

• Spend your last morning in Madeira relaxing. You could visit the Botanical Garden or take a dip in the hotel pool.

Afternoon:

• Check out of your hotel and catch your flight back to Lisbon. Once in Lisbon, you might have time for some last-minute shopping or a visit to the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe.

Evening:

• Enjoy a farewell dinner in Lisbon. Consider a restaurant in the Bairro Alto district, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere one last time.

Tips for Traveling with Teenagers:

• Keep the itinerary flexible to accommodate their interests.
• Involve them in planning some activities or meals.
• Make sure to take plenty of breaks to avoid burnout.

I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories with your teenagers in Lisbon and Madeira! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️