5 day itinerary for Madeira

Itinerary

Madeira is a stunning island with a perfect blend of nature, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and beautiful beaches. Let’s dive into a delightful 5-day itinerary that will let you soak up all the best experiences Madeira has to offer!

## Day 1: Arrival and Funchal Exploration

Morning:

• Arrive in Funchal, the capital of Madeira. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Try the famous bolo do caco (a traditional Madeiran bread) with garlic butter.

Afternoon:

• Explore the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market). Sample local fruits, cheeses, and perhaps some poncha, a traditional Madeiran drink made from sugar cane rum, honey, and lemon juice.
• Stroll through the beautiful streets of Funchal, visiting the stunning Cathedral of Funchal and the picturesque Santa Catarina Park.

Evening:

• Dinner at a local restaurant. Don’t miss trying espetada (grilled meat skewers) and scabbard fish with banana.
• End your day with a glass of Madeira wine at a cozy wine bar. Cheers to your first day!

## Day 2: Nature and Hiking

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to the famous Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike. This relatively easy hike takes you through lush forests and offers breathtaking views of waterfalls. Don’t forget your camera!

Afternoon:

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature. You can grab some local snacks from the market the day before.
• After your hike, visit the charming village of Santana, known for its traditional A-frame houses.

Evening:

• Return to Funchal and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant with a view. Try the bacalhau à Brás (codfish dish) and pair it with a refreshing Madeira wine.
• If you’re up for it, check out a local bar for some live music!

## Day 3: West Coast Adventure

Morning:

• Head out early to explore the west coast of Madeira. Stop at Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, for stunning views.
• Enjoy breakfast at a café in Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village. Try the local pastel de nata (custard tart).

Afternoon:

• Continue to the beautiful Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools. Take a dip in the volcanic rock pools and soak up the sun.
• Have lunch at a seaside restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Try the grilled octopus!

Evening:

• On your way back, stop at a local vineyard for a wine tasting. Learn about the unique wine-making process of Madeira.
• Dinner back in Funchal, perhaps at a restaurant specializing in Madeiran cuisine. Don’t forget dessert—queijadas (cheese pastries) are a must-try!

## Day 4: Relaxation and Beach Day

Morning:

• After a busy few days, take it easy! Head to Praia Formosa, the largest public beach in Funchal. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachside café.

Afternoon:

• Spend your day lounging on the beach, swimming, or trying out some water sports like paddleboarding or snorkeling.
• For lunch, grab a bite at one of the beach bars. A fresh salad or a light sandwich will do the trick!

Evening:

• As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside dinner. Try the arroz de marisco (seafood rice) while listening to the waves.
• Cap off your day with a cocktail at a beach bar. A Caipirinha or a Madeira spritz would be perfect!

## Day 5: Cultural Immersion and Departure

Morning:

• Visit the beautiful Monte Palace Gardens. Take the cable car up for stunning views and explore the exotic gardens.
• Enjoy breakfast at the café in the gardens, surrounded by nature.

Afternoon:

• Head back to Funchal and visit the CR7 Museum (if you’re a football fan) or the Madeira Story Centre to learn about the island’s history.
• For lunch, try a local francesinha (a hearty sandwich) at a nearby eatery.

Evening:

• Before you leave, indulge in a farewell dinner at a restaurant with a view of the harbor. Savor the flavors of Madeira one last time with a traditional dish.
• If time allows, grab a final drink at a rooftop bar to toast to your amazing trip!

And there you have it! A perfect blend of food, nature, drinks, and beach time in beautiful Madeira. Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌴🍷🏖️