3 day itinerary for Madiera

Itinerary

Madeira is a stunning island with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that will help you make the most of your time there!

## Day 1: Funchal Exploration

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try some bolo do caco (a traditional Madeiran bread) with garlic butter and a fresh fruit juice.
• Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores: After breakfast, head to this vibrant market in Funchal. You’ll find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful flowers and the famous Madeira wine!

Afternoon:

• Botanical Gardens: After the market, take a stroll through the Madeira Botanical Garden. The views of Funchal are stunning, and you can explore a variety of exotic plants.
• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy some traditional Madeiran cuisine. Try espetada (grilled meat skewers) or scabbard fish with banana.

Evening:

• Cable Car Ride to Monte: Take the cable car from Funchal to Monte for breathtaking views of the city and coastline.
• Monte Palace Tropical Garden: Explore the beautiful gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
• Dinner in Monte: Have dinner at a restaurant with a view. Try some local seafood dishes and pair it with a glass of Madeira wine.

## Day 2: West Coast Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast in Funchal: Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before heading out for the day.
• Visit Câmara de Lobos: This charming fishing village is just a short drive from Funchal. Enjoy the colorful boats and maybe even try a poncha, a traditional Madeiran drink.

Afternoon:

• Cape Girão Skywalk: Head to the Cape Girão viewpoint, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The glass skywalk offers incredible views of the ocean below.
• Lunch in Ribeira Brava: Stop for lunch in this quaint town. Enjoy some local dishes while soaking in the coastal views.
• Visit Ponta do Sol: This picturesque village is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the beach or through the charming streets.

Evening:

• Return to Funchal: Head back to Funchal and freshen up.
• Dinner at a Funchal Restaurant: Treat yourself to a nice dinner. Consider trying bacalhau (codfish) or a Madeiran stew.
• Funchal Nightlife: If you’re up for it, explore the nightlife in Funchal. There are plenty of bars and live music venues to enjoy!

## Day 3: Nature and Hiking

Morning:

• Early Breakfast: Have an early breakfast and prepare for a day of adventure.
• Levada Walk: Choose a levada walk (irrigation channel) for a unique hiking experience. The Levada do Caldeirão Verde is a popular choice, offering stunning views and lush greenery.

Afternoon:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy during your hike or stop at a local café on your way back.
• Visit Santana: After your hike, head to Santana to see the traditional A-framed houses. It’s a great spot for photos!

Evening:

• Return to Funchal: Head back to Funchal for your last evening.
• Dinner at a Traditional Restaurant: Celebrate your trip with a final dinner. Try the famous Madeira wine cake for dessert!
• Sunset at the Promenade: Take a leisurely walk along the promenade and enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. It’s the perfect way to end your trip!

Tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car can be a great way to explore the island at your own pace.
• Weather: Madeira has a mild climate, but it can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for some rain, especially in the mountains.
• Local Etiquette: Don’t forget to greet locals with a friendly “Bom dia!” (Good morning) or “Boa tarde!” (Good afternoon).

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable time in Madeira! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌺✈️