Madeira

Madeira is a stunning island with a lot to offer, and it’s quite family-friendly too. Here’s a fun and engaging 7-day itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and exploration, perfect for you and your little ones!

Day 1: Arrival in Funchal

Morning:

• Arrive in Funchal, the capital of Madeira. Settle into your family-friendly accommodation. There are plenty of hotels and apartments that cater to families.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Madeira Botanical Garden. It’s a beautiful place to stroll around, and the kids will love the colorful flowers and the small playground.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Madeiran dishes, and don’t forget to sample the famous Madeira wine (for the adults, of course!).

Day 2: Exploring Funchal

Morning:

• Visit the CR7 Museum dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s a fun stop for kids and soccer fans alike!

Afternoon:

• Take the cable car from Funchal to Monte. The views are breathtaking! Once in Monte, visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. The kids will love the exotic plants and the small animals.

Evening:

• Have dinner in Monte, and if the kids are up for it, take a thrilling toboggan ride back down to Funchal! It’s a unique experience that’s sure to be a hit.

Day 3: Day Trip to Porto Moniz

Morning:

• Drive or take a tour to Porto Moniz. The natural swimming pools are perfect for a family day out.

Afternoon:

• Pack a picnic or grab lunch at a local café. After lunch, let the kids splash around in the pools while you relax and enjoy the stunning coastal views.

Evening:

• Head back to Funchal and have a relaxed dinner. Maybe try some fresh seafood!

Day 4: Levada Walk and Santana

Morning:

• Start your day with a family-friendly Levada walk. The Levada dos 25 Fontes is a great option, but make sure to check the difficulty level and choose a shorter route if needed.

Afternoon:

• After your walk, drive to Santana to see the traditional A-framed houses. The kids will love exploring the colorful homes and the surrounding nature.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner in Santana. There are some lovely restaurants that serve local cuisine.

Day 5: Whale Watching and Beach Day

Morning:

• Book a whale and dolphin watching tour. It’s an exciting adventure for the whole family, and you might even spot some sea life!

Afternoon:

• After the tour, head to Praia Formosa, the largest public beach in Funchal. It has pebbles and sand, and there are facilities for families, including restaurants and playgrounds.

Evening:

• Have a beachside dinner and enjoy the sunset.

Day 6: Visit to Ponta de São Lourenço

Morning:

• Take a trip to Ponta de São Lourenço. The hike here is stunning and offers incredible views. It’s a bit more rugged, so make sure the kids are up for it!

Afternoon:

• Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic while taking in the views. The area is less crowded, so it’s a great spot to relax.

Evening:

• Return to Funchal and have a casual dinner. Maybe try a pizzeria or a family-friendly restaurant.

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

Morning:

• Spend your last morning at the Funchal Farmers Market (Mercado dos Lavradores). It’s vibrant and colorful, and the kids will enjoy the sights and sounds.

Afternoon:

• Depending on your flight time, you can either relax at your accommodation or take a final stroll along the Funchal promenade.

Evening:

• Head to the airport for your departure, taking with you wonderful memories of your Madeira adventure!

Tips:

• Always check the weather and adjust your plans accordingly, as Madeira can be quite variable.
• Make sure to have snacks and water handy for the kids, especially during hikes or long outings.
• Consider renting a car for flexibility, especially with children.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family trip to Madeira! Enjoy every moment! 🌞🌊🌺