6 day itinerary
Madeira
Personalized with:My husband and I are active 80 year olds. We want to plan a trip to Madeira in either early December or early January. We prefer to stay in one small hotel reasonably priced with a good dining room. It should be well situated from which we can explore the island. What is the cheapest way to fly from NYC to Funchal. My husband and I are active 80 year olds. We want to plan a trip to Madeira in either early December or early January. We prefer to stay in one small hotel reasonably priced with a good dining room. It should be well situated from which we can explore the island. What is the cheapest way to fly from NYC to Funchal.
Itinerary
What a wonderful adventure you have planned! Madeira is a stunning island with breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and a mild climate, making it perfect for active travelers like yourselves. Let’s dive into an ideal 6-day itinerary for your trip, along with some tips on flights and accommodations.
Flights from NYC to
To find the cheapest flights from New York City to (FNC), consider these tips:
- Flexible Dates: Use flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak to check for the best deals. Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find lower fares.
- Connecting Flights: Most flights from NYC to will require at least one stop, often in Lisbon or Porto. Look for airlines like TAP Air Portugal, which frequently offers competitive rates.
- Book in Advance: Since you’re planning for early December or January, booking a few months in advance can help you secure better prices.
Accommodation
For a small, reasonably priced hotel with a good dining room, consider staying in , the capital. Here are a couple of options:
- Hotel do Carmo: A charming hotel with a lovely restaurant and a great location near the city center.
- Pestana CR7 : A modern hotel with a good restaurant and a fantastic view of the ocean, located near the marina.
6-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in
- Morning: Arrive in , check into your hotel, and take some time to relax after your flight.
- Afternoon: Stroll around the beautiful streets of . Visit the (Farmers' Market) to experience local culture and perhaps grab a light lunch.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at your hotel’s restaurant or a nearby eatery. Try some traditional Madeiran dishes like Espetada (grilled meat skewers) or Bolo do Caco (local bread).
Day 2: Explore
- Morning: Visit the beautiful . You can take a cable car from the city center for stunning views.
- Afternoon: Head to the to learn about the island’s history. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café in the Old Town.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Consider trying the famous Madeira wine!
Day 3: West Coast Adventure
- Morning: Rent a car or join a guided tour to explore the west coast. Start with a visit to , a picturesque fishing village.
- Afternoon: Continue to , one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, for breathtaking views. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the area.
- Evening: Return to and have dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.
Day 4: Levada Walk
- Morning: Experience one of Madeira’s famous levada walks. The is a great option, offering beautiful scenery and a relatively easy hike.
- Afternoon: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy during your hike. Afterward, return to and relax.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Try some fresh seafood!
Day 5: East Coast Exploration
- Morning: Drive or take a tour to the eastern part of the island. Visit the charming town of , known for its traditional A-framed houses.
- Afternoon: Head to for a scenic walk along the peninsula. Enjoy lunch at a café in the area.
- Evening: Return to for dinner. Consider a restaurant with a view to enjoy the sunset.
Day 6: Relax and Departure
- Morning: Spend your last morning relaxing. You could visit the if you’re fans of soccer or take a leisurely walk along the promenade.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a final lunch in , perhaps at a café with a view of the harbor.
- Evening: Depart for the airport for your flight home.
Final Tips
- Weather: December and January are mild in Madeira, but it can be rainy, so pack layers and a light rain jacket.
- Transportation: Renting a car is a great way to explore the island at your own pace, but guided tours are also available if you prefer not to drive.
- Health & Safety: Make sure to stay hydrated and take breaks during your activities, especially if you’re hiking.
I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic trip to Madeira! Enjoy the stunning landscapes, delicious food, and the warm hospitality of the island. Safe travels! 🌺✈️