Itinerary for 10 day trip to Madere

Madeira is a stunning island with a rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Here’s a relaxed 10-day itinerary that balances exploration with downtime, perfect for a family getaway. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Funchal

Morning: Arrive at . Take a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation in Funchal. Settle in and unpack.
Afternoon: Stroll around the beautiful city center. Visit the (Farmers' Market) to sample local fruits and snacks.
Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Madeiran dishes like Espetada (beef skewers) or Bolo do Caco (garlic bread).

Day 2: Explore Funchal

Morning: Visit the . The kids will love the colorful flowers and the stunning views of the city.
Afternoon: Head to the (Cristiano Ronaldo Museum) for a fun and interactive experience, especially if your family is into football!
Evening: Take a cable car ride up to Monte. Enjoy the views and have dinner at a restaurant with a view.

Day 3: Monte and Toboggan Ride

Morning: Explore the . It’s a beautiful place to wander and take photos.
Afternoon: Experience the famous ride down to Funchal. It’s a thrilling and unique experience that the kids will love!
Evening: Relax at your accommodation or take a leisurely walk along the Funchal promenade.

Day 4: Day Trip to

Morning: Drive or take a guided tour to , famous for its natural swimming pools. The scenic drive along the coast is breathtaking!
Afternoon: Spend the day swimming in the pools and enjoying a picnic lunch. There are also some lovely cafes nearby if you prefer to eat out.
Evening: Head back to Funchal and enjoy a quiet evening at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

Day 5: Levada Walk and Local Culture

Morning: Take a family-friendly Levada walk, such as the . It’s a relatively easy hike with stunning views and waterfalls.
Afternoon: Visit a local village like , known for its traditional A-framed houses. Explore the village and maybe grab some lunch.
Evening: Return to Funchal and enjoy a family dinner. Consider trying a local poncha (a traditional drink) while the kids enjoy some fresh juice.

Day 6: Whale Watching and Relaxation

Morning: Go on a family-friendly whale and dolphin watching tour. It’s an exciting adventure that everyone will enjoy!
Afternoon: Spend some time at the beach. is a great option with pebbles and sand, perfect for a family day out.
Evening: Have a relaxed dinner at a beachside restaurant, enjoying the sunset.

Day 7: Visit to

Morning: Head to , a picturesque fishing village. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café.
Afternoon: Take a boat trip to see the coastline or go for a short hike in the area. The views are stunning!
Evening: Return to Funchal and enjoy a family game night or movie night at your accommodation.

Day 8: Explore the East Coast

Morning: Drive to for a scenic hike. The landscape is different from the rest of the island and offers stunning views.
Afternoon: Visit the charming town of . Relax on the beach or explore the town’s history.
Evening: Have dinner in before heading back to Funchal.

Day 9: Relaxation Day

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take the day to relax. You could visit a local spa or simply enjoy your hotel’s amenities.
Afternoon: Explore any areas of Funchal you may have missed, like the or the .
Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, perhaps trying some local wine.

Day 10: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast in Funchal. Take a last stroll around the city or pick up some souvenirs.
Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the wonderful memories made during your trip!

Tips:

Always check the weather and adjust your plans accordingly, especially for outdoor activities.
Make sure to have some downtime each day to relax and recharge, especially with kids in tow.
Consider renting a car for flexibility, but also look into guided tours for a more relaxed experience.

I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in Madeira! Enjoy your trip! 🌺✈️