3 day itinerary
Madere
Personalized with:Visits hiking restaurant off the beaten track
Itinerary
Madeira is a stunning island with breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and delicious food. Let’s craft an exciting 3-day itinerary that includes some hiking, hidden gems, and delightful dining experiences. Ready? Let’s go!
Day 1: Exploring Funchal and the Levada Walks
Morning:
- Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a traditional Madeiran breakfast at a local café. Try the bolo do caco (a delicious garlic bread) with some fresh cheese and a cup of coffee.
- Visit the : After breakfast, head to the in Funchal. This vibrant market is filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Don’t forget to sample some exotic fruits!
Midday:
- Hike: After exploring the market, take a short drive to the starting point of the hike. This relatively easy hike (about 13 km round trip) takes you through lush forests and offers stunning views of waterfalls. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Madeira’s natural beauty.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a Hidden Gem: After your hike, head to a local restaurant like in Santana. It’s a bit off the beaten path and serves traditional Madeiran dishes. Try the espetada (beef skewers) or bacalhau (cod).
Evening:
- Explore : Spend your evening wandering through the charming streets of . Check out the street art and maybe pop into a few local shops.
- Dinner at a Local Taverna: For dinner, try , a cozy spot with a great atmosphere and delicious local dishes.
Day 2: The North Coast and
Morning:
- Breakfast at Your Accommodation: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or guesthouse.
- Drive to : Head out early to , the island’s third-highest peak. The drive is scenic, and you’ll be treated to stunning views along the way.
Midday:
- : If you’re up for it, take the hike from to Pico Ruivo (about 7 km one way). This hike is a bit more challenging but offers some of the most breathtaking views in Madeira. Make sure to bring water and snacks!
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a Local Restaurant: After your hike, drive to the nearby village of Curral das Freiras. Enjoy lunch at , which has fantastic views of the valley. Try the local chestnut soup!
Evening:
- Visit the Village of : On your way back, stop by , a picturesque fishing village. Stroll along the harbor and enjoy the colorful boats.
- Dinner at a Local Seafood Restaurant: For dinner, try , known for its fresh seafood and local specialties. Don’t miss the grilled fish!
Day 3: The West Coast and Relaxation
Morning:
- Breakfast at a Local Bakery: Start your day with a visit to a local bakery for some queijadas (cheese pastries) and coffee.
- Visit the : Head to the , a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can take a short hike in the area, such as the , which is less crowded and offers beautiful scenery.
Midday:
- Lunch in São Vicente: After your hike, drive to São Vicente and have lunch at . It’s a cozy spot with hearty Madeiran dishes.
Afternoon:
- Visit the : After lunch, make your way to Porto Moniz to relax in the natural volcanic swimming pools. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a few days of hiking!
Evening:
- Dinner with a View: For your final dinner, head to in Porto Moniz. Enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the ocean. It’s a lovely way to end your trip!
And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary filled with hiking, local cuisine, and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Madeira. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌄🍽️✨