3 day itinerary for Madeira

Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Funchal

Welcome to Madeira! On your first day, let's start by exploring the charming capital city, Funchal. Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, sipping on a cup of traditional Madeiran coffee.

After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque promenade, Avenida do Mar, enjoying the fresh ocean breeze. As you walk, you'll pass by beautiful gardens, colorful flowers, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Next, head to the historic center of Funchal, where you can visit the iconic Sé Cathedral. Marvel at its Gothic architecture and step inside to admire the intricate details of the interior. Nearby, you'll find the Mercado dos Lavradores, a vibrant market where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and sample fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional Madeiran delicacies.

For lunch, indulge in some local cuisine at one of the many traditional restaurants in the area. Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous Espetada, a skewered meat dish, or the mouthwatering Black Scabbard fish.

In the afternoon, take a cable car ride up to Monte, a charming village located on the hills overlooking Funchal. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding landscapes as you ascend. Once in Monte, visit the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden, filled with exotic plants, stunning waterfalls, and even a small museum.

To end your day, take a thrilling toboggan ride back down to Funchal. This unique experience involves sitting in a wicker sled and being guided down the steep streets by two carreiros. It's a fun and exhilarating way to end your first day in Madeira!

Day 2: Exploring Nature

Today, let's venture out of Funchal and explore the natural beauty of Madeira. Start your day with a hearty breakfast and then head to the eastern part of the island to visit the enchanting Santana village. Known for its traditional thatched-roof houses, Santana offers a glimpse into the island's rural past.

After exploring Santana, make your way to the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço, the easternmost point of Madeira. This nature reserve is a paradise for hikers, with its rugged cliffs, dramatic landscapes, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a leisurely hike along the well-marked trails and be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas.

For lunch, find a cozy restaurant in the nearby town of Machico and enjoy some fresh seafood or traditional Madeiran dishes. After lunch, head to the picturesque village of Porto da Cruz, known for its vineyards and the iconic Penha d'Aguia rock formation. Take a leisurely stroll through the village, visit a local winery, and perhaps even sample some Madeira wine.

In the evening, return to Funchal and enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Indulge in some local specialties, such as the delicious Espada com Banana (scabbard fish with banana) or the mouthwatering Bolo do Caco (traditional Madeiran bread).

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

On your final day in Madeira, let's embark on some outdoor adventures. Start your day with a delicious breakfast and then head to the western part of the island to explore the stunning Rabaçal Valley. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and beautiful hiking trails.

Begin your hike at the Rabaçal parking area and follow the Levada das 25 Fontes trail, which will lead you through a magical forest and past several waterfalls. The highlight of the trail is the impressive "25 Fontes" waterfall, where 25 springs converge to create a stunning cascade. Take your time to enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings and perhaps even dip your feet in the refreshing water.

After the hike, make your way to the charming village of Paul do Mar, located on the southwestern coast of Madeira. This picturesque fishing village is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants, savoring the flavors of the ocean.

In the afternoon, head back to Funchal and visit the beautiful Botanical Garden. This lush garden is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, including many endemic species found only in Madeira. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views of Funchal.

To end your day, head to the Old Town of Funchal and explore its narrow streets, filled with charming shops, art galleries, and traditional Madeiran houses. Stop by one of the local bars for a glass of Poncha, a traditional Madeiran drink made with aguardente (a local spirit), honey, sugar, and lemon juice. It's the perfect way to toast to your unforgettable three days in Madeira!