7 day itinerary
Madeira
Itinerary
Madeira is a stunning island with breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and fantastic trekking opportunities. Let’s create a fun and adventurous 7-day itinerary for you, starting from Milan.
Day 1: Arrival in
Morning:
- Flight from Milan to : Look for a direct flight, which usually takes around 3 hours. Aim for an early morning flight to maximize your day.
Afternoon:
- Check-in at your accommodation: Consider staying in a cozy hotel or a charming Airbnb in , the capital. The Hotel Savoy Palace or the Pestana CR7 are great options with stunning views.
- Lunch: Grab a bite at a local restaurant. Try the famous “Espetada” (beef skewers) at a place like .
Evening:
- Explore : Stroll through the beautiful streets, visit the (Farmers' Market), and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
- Dinner: Enjoy a meal at a restaurant with a view, like the Restaurante Armazém do Sal.
Day 2: Levada Walk -
Morning:
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Trekking: Head to the north of the island for the hike. This is a moderate 13 km (8 miles) trek that takes you through lush forests and stunning waterfalls.
Afternoon:
- Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature.
- Continue your trek: Explore the beautiful scenery and take plenty of photos!
Evening:
- Return to : Freshen up at your accommodation.
- Dinner: Try some local seafood at a restaurant like .
Day 3: to Trek
Morning:
- Early breakfast: Fuel up for a big day!
- Trekking: Drive or take a tour to , the island's third-highest peak. Start your trek to , the highest point in Madeira. This hike is about 12 km (7.5 miles) and offers breathtaking views.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch on the trail or at the summit.
- Explore: Take your time to soak in the views and enjoy the unique flora.
Evening:
- Return to : Relax after a long day of trekking.
- Dinner: Treat yourself to a nice dinner at the Hotel’s restaurant or a local eatery.
Day 4: Explore and Monte
Morning:
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Visit : Take the cable car from to Monte. Explore the beautiful gardens and enjoy the views.
Afternoon:
- Lunch in Monte: Try a local café for a light meal.
- Toboggan Ride: Experience the famous toboggan ride back down to – it’s a fun and unique experience!
Evening:
- Explore more of : Visit the if you’re a football fan or enjoy some shopping.
- Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Madeiran meal at a local restaurant.
Day 5: West Coast Adventure
Morning:
- Breakfast and then rent a car or join a tour.
- Visit : Start your day with a visit to one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.
Afternoon:
- Lunch in : This picturesque fishing village is perfect for a seafood lunch.
- Trekking: Head to the Rabaçal area for a short Levada walk to the (about 5 km round trip).
Evening:
- Return to : Relax and freshen up.
- Dinner: Try a local wine bar for some Madeiran wine and tapas.
Day 6: East Coast Exploration
Morning:
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Visit : Drive to the charming village known for its traditional A-frame houses.
Afternoon:
- Lunch in : Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
- Trekking: Hike the , a stunning coastal trail with breathtaking views (about 10 km).
Evening:
- Return to : Enjoy your last evening on the island.
- Dinner: Celebrate your trip with a special dinner at a fine dining restaurant like .
Day 7: Departure
Morning:
- Breakfast and last-minute shopping: Pick up some souvenirs or local delicacies.
Afternoon:
- Check out and head to the airport: Make sure to leave with enough time for your flight back to Milan.
Evening:
- Flight back to Milan: Reflect on your amazing week in Madeira!
Tips:
- Accommodation: Book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Car Rental: Consider renting a car for flexibility, especially for reaching trekking locations.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast, as it can change quickly in the mountains.
I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your trip to Madeira! Enjoy the stunning landscapes, delicious food, and the warm hospitality of the island. Safe travels! 🌄✈️🌊
