7 day itinerary for Madeira

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Madeira

Welcome to Madeira! After checking into your hotel, take some time to relax and settle in. In the afternoon, head to the charming capital city, Funchal. Explore the historic Old Town, wander through the colorful Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market), and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional Madeiran cuisine.

Day 2: Exploring Funchal

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden, located on the outskirts of Funchal. Take a cable car ride up to Monte and enjoy stunning views of the city and the coastline. In the afternoon, visit the Madeira Botanical Garden, which showcases a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers. End the day with a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoying the sunset and the lively atmosphere of Funchal.

Day 3: East Madeira Adventure

Today, embark on an exciting adventure to explore the eastern part of Madeira. Start by visiting the picturesque village of Santana, famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses. Continue your journey to the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço, a nature reserve with breathtaking cliffs and panoramic views. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even hike along the coastal trails. On your way back, make a stop at Machico, the first capital of Madeira, and relax on its beautiful sandy beach.

Day 4: West Madeira Discovery

Today, it's time to explore the western part of the island. Begin by visiting Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, offering incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to Ribeira Brava, a charming coastal town, and enjoy a leisurely walk along its promenade. Next, head to the picturesque fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, known for its colorful boats and Winston Churchill's favorite painting spot. End the day with a visit to the stunning viewpoint of Pico do Arieiro, where you can witness breathtaking sunset views.

Day 5: Levada Walk

Madeira is famous for its levadas, narrow irrigation channels that crisscross the island. Today, embark on a levada walk to experience the island's natural beauty up close. Choose from various trails, such as the Levada do Caldeirão Verde or the Levada das 25 Fontes, both offering stunning views of lush forests, waterfalls, and mountain landscapes. Don't forget to pack comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the beauty of Madeira's nature.

Day 6: Porto Santo Island Excursion

Take a day trip to the neighboring island of Porto Santo, known for its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Hop on a ferry from Funchal and spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming, and soaking up the sun. You can also explore the island's main town, Vila Baleira, visit the Christopher Columbus House Museum, or indulge in some delicious seafood at a local restaurant. Return to Madeira in the evening, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Day 7: Madeira Wine Experience

No trip to Madeira is complete without tasting its famous fortified wine. Start your day with a visit to one of the island's wine cellars, such as Blandy's or Madeira Wine Company, where you can learn about the wine-making process and sample different varieties of Madeira wine. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the charming streets of Funchal, do some souvenir shopping, and enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, savoring the last moments of your unforgettable trip to Madeira.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can always customize it based on your preferences and interests. Enjoy your time in Madeira!