Itinerary for 7 day trip to Madeira

Madeira is a stunning island with lush landscapes, beautiful parks, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Here’s a delightful 7-day itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and exploration, all while keeping the little ones entertained!

Day 1: Arrival in Funchal

Morning:

Arrive in Funchal, the capital of Madeira. Settle into your accommodation. If you’re staying in a family-friendly hotel, check if they have any welcome activities for kids!

Afternoon:

Head to . This beautiful garden is a feast for the eyes with its diverse plant species and stunning views of the city. Kids will love exploring the different sections and spotting colorful flowers.

Evening:

Enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Madeiran dishes like Espetada (grilled meat skewers) or Bolo do Caco (a type of bread).

Day 2: Exploring Funchal

Morning:

Visit the (Farmers' Market). It’s vibrant and full of local produce, fish, and flowers. Kids will enjoy the sights and sounds, and you can pick up some fresh snacks!

Afternoon:

Take a cable car ride up to . The views are breathtaking! Once at the top, visit the . The gardens are expansive, and there’s a fun toboggan ride back down that the kids will absolutely love!

Evening:

Have dinner in or head back to Funchal for a meal. Consider a restaurant with a view of the harbor.

Day 3: Adventure in the West

Morning:

Rent a car or join a family-friendly tour to explore the western part of the island. Start with a visit to , one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The glass skywalk is thrilling!

Afternoon:

Head to for lunch, then continue to . This UNESCO World Heritage site is perfect for a family hike. Choose a short, easy trail suitable for kids, like the .

Evening:

Return to Funchal and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Maybe try a pizzeria for a kid-friendly option!

Day 4: Beach Day

Morning:

Spend the day at , the largest public beach in Funchal. It has pebbles and sand, and there are facilities for families. Kids can play in the water while you relax.

Afternoon:

Pack a picnic or grab lunch at one of the beachside cafes. Afterward, let the kids enjoy the playgrounds nearby or rent some beach equipment for fun in the sun!

Evening:

Head back to your accommodation to freshen up, then enjoy a casual dinner at a beachside restaurant.

Day 5: Nature and Culture

Morning:

Visit the in Funchal. It’s an interactive museum that tells the story of Madeira, and kids will enjoy the engaging exhibits.

Afternoon:

Explore the . It’s a lovely green space with playgrounds, beautiful gardens, and stunning views of the harbor. Perfect for a family stroll and some playtime!

Evening:

Have dinner in the Old Town of Funchal. The cobblestone streets are charming, and there are plenty of family-friendly dining options.

Day 6: Day Trip to

Morning:

Take a scenic drive to . The natural swimming pools are a must-see! The drive itself is beautiful, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Afternoon:

Enjoy swimming in the pools (make sure to bring swim gear!). There are also picnic areas, so you can have lunch with a view.

Evening:

On your way back, stop in for a quick visit to the beach or a local café. Return to Funchal for dinner.

Day 7: Relax and Reflect

Morning:

Spend your last day at , the second-highest peak in Madeira. It’s a bit of a drive, but the views are worth it! There are easy trails for families to enjoy.

Afternoon:

Head back to Funchal and visit the (if your family is into football!). It’s a fun way to learn about Cristiano Ronaldo’s life and achievements.

Evening:

For your final dinner, consider a restaurant with traditional Fado music. It’s a lovely way to end your trip, soaking in the culture and enjoying the atmosphere.