Funchal Madeira 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Funchal Itinerary:

Where to Stay:

  • For Luxury: Reid’s Palace (iconic hotel with stunning views), Hotel do Savoy (elegant stay in the heart of Funchal)

  • For Mid-Range: Hotel Girassol (charming and centrally located), Quinta da Serra (cozy guesthouse with a focus on nature and hiking)

  • For Budget:

    • Residencial Solar das Flores (affordable rooms with basic amenities)
    • Pestana Caravelas (comfortable and central, with good value for money)

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Funchal

  • Morning: Arrive in Funchal. Check into your hotel. Take a stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town (Funchal’s historic center), exploring the cobblestone alleys and visiting the Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers Market) for a taste of local life and fresh produce.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch with a view at Restaurante O Marinheiro in the Marina do Funchal, where you can savor fresh seafood and traditional Madeiran cuisine. Afterwards, head up to Monte Palace Gardens, a lush botanical garden with stunning views over Funchal.

  • Evening: Stroll through the historic center of Funchal, taking in the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Dine at Doca do Cais in the marina for a delightful seafood experience or enjoy a traditional Madeiran meal at O Tasco.

  • Things of Interest:

    • Explore the picturesque Madeira Botanical Garden with its diverse plant collection, koi pond, and charming koi pond.
    • Visit Praça do Munro (square) and the Municipal Gardens for a serene evening stroll.
    • Indulge in a glass of Poncha, the traditional Madeiran drink made with fruit juice, honey, and aguardente (a type of brandy), at a local bar.

  • Tips:

    • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the Old Town.
    • Take advantage of the many free walking tours offered in Funchal.
    • Sample the local cuisine at the Mercado dos Lavradores, but remember to bargain!

Day 2: Hiking and History

  • Morning: Hike the Levada Walk Levada do Caldeirão, a stunning trail through the mountains, exploring waterfalls and lush greenery along the way.

  • Afternoon: Discover Funchal’s history at the Madeira Museum of Natural History, the Fortaleza de São João Batista, or the Church of Our Lady of the Mount.

  • Things to do:

    • Explore levadas: Hike the historical Levada das 25 Fontes, the breathtaking Levada do Pico da Arieiro, or a shorter, easier trail like the Pico dos Barcelos to Monte walk.

    • Visit Funchal’s historic center:

      • Explore the Museu CR7, dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo, one of Madeira’s most famous sons.
      • Wander through the charming cobblestone streets and admire the traditional architecture.

  • Food: Have dinner at Restaurante Casal da Ferraria, a popular spot for traditional Madeiran dishes in the heart of the city.

Day 3: Relaxing on the Island

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the beaches and coastal scenery of Madeira. Take a dip in the ocean or relax by the shore at Praia Formosa or the natural pools of Porto Moniz.

  • Afternoon: Hike to a volcanic crater, visit the Madeira Wine Museum and learn about the island’s winemaking history, or take a cable car ride up to Cabo Girao, one of the world’s highest cliffs.

  • Things to do:

    • Explore the charming seaside town of Funchal and enjoy the fresh air.
    • Take a scenic drive through the mountains and enjoy the stunning views.
    • Visit the island’s capital, Funchal, and explore its historic streets.

Day 4: Natural Wonders

  • Enjoy a unique lunch experience at Quinta do Furão, a restaurant with beautiful views and a focus on local ingredients.

  • Explore the volcanic landscapes of Madeira by hiking up Pico Ruivo (the highest peak in Madeira) or visiting the Parque da Cidade, a lush park with gardens, lakes, and walking paths.

  • Embark on a whale and dolphin watching tour.

  • Enjoy a boat trip to the nearby island of Porto Santo, known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

  • Relax on the beach. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or watersports in the beautiful waters of Madeira.

  • Explore the natural beauty of Madeira, from volcanic craters and black sand beaches to the breathtaking landscapes of the island’s interior.

Things of Interest:

  • Island Scenery: Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Madeira with a visit to the Madeira Botanical Garden.

  • Volcanic Landscapes: Visit a volcanic crater, such as Levada do Caldeirão, for a unique experience and breathtaking views.

Tips for Funchal:

  • Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.

  • Bring plenty of water: Especially if you’re hiking, it’s important to stay hydrated in Madeira’s warm climate.

  • Pack snacks: Hiking trails can be long and strenuous, so bring along some energy-boosting treats.

  • Book a guided tour: This will enhance your experience and allow you to learn more about the flora and fauna of the island.

Other things to consider:

  • Weather: Pack for all weather conditions as the climate in Madeira can change quickly.

  • Fitness level: Consider your fitness level when choosing trails, starting with shorter and easier ones if you’re not an experienced hiker.

  • Try the Poncha: This traditional Madeiran drink is a must-try for any visitor.

  • Transportation:

    • Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace.
    • Take a bus from the airport to Funchal and enjoy the scenic ride.
    • Explore the island on foot, with many hikes starting in Funchal itself.

Enjoy the stunning beauty of Madeira’s landscapes:

  • Visit the levada walks, which are traditional irrigation channels that offer breathtaking views and unique hiking experiences.

Transportation:

  • Public transport: While buses are a convenient option for getting around, consider the bus schedule as they may not be frequent on all routes.

  • Walking tours: Many companies offer guided walking tours of Funchal’s streets, starting in the city center and venturing through the historical districts, exploring landmarks like the Cathedral of Funchal, the Santa Maria Maior Church, or the charming old town streets.

  • Restaurants:

    • Enjoy a traditional Madeiran meal at “Restaurante O Forno” for a taste of the local cuisine and culture.
    • Look for restaurants in the historic center: They often offer unique dishes and experiences.

Day 4: Relaxing day out on the island (optional)

  • Visit the Laurissilva Forest: Take a walk through the lush forests, explore the volcanic landscapes, and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.
  • Hike to the Pico da Cruz viewpoint: It’s a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the stunning views of Madeira.
  • Enjoy the beauty of the island’s scenery with a visit to the Madeira Botanical Garden.

Enjoy this 4-day itinerary as a starting point, and be sure to adjust it based on your own interests and preferences.

For example:

  • If you’re interested in history: You can focus more on visiting historical sites like Fortaleza de São João Batista, the Madeira Wine Museum (which focuses on the history of Madeira wine) and less on the natural ones.

  • If you’re a hiker:

    • Explore the Levada walks.

  • If you have limited mobility: You can explore accessible trails like Ponta de São Lourenço, or enjoy the beaches around Funchal.