Start your trip by exploring Funchal, the capital of Madeira. Check out the charming Old Town, which is filled with narrow, winding streets, and colorful buildings. Take a stroll along Rua de Santa Maria, an open-air art gallery featuring painted doors. You can also visit the Madeira Story Centre, a museum that tells the story of the island's history and culture. Make sure to stop by the Mercado dos Lavradores, a vibrant market where locals buy fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables.
On your second day, explore the natural beauty of Madeira. Start by visiting the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a lush garden filled with exotic plants, lakes, and waterfalls. You can take a cable car to get there and enjoy the stunning views of Funchal. Afterward, head to the Madeira Botanical Garden, which showcases a vast collection of plants and flowers from all over the world. The garden features several walking paths and a lovely café where you can enjoy a light lunch.
Experience the best of Madeira's natural wonders by taking a guided Levada walk. Levadas are narrow irrigation channels that provide water to the island's crops but also make for fantastic hiking opportunities. Afterward, head to the Cabo Girão Skywalk, a vertigo-inducing glass platform that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding cliffs. Don't miss the chance to snap some Instagram-worthy photos!
On your last day, explore Madeira's wilder side. Start by visiting Pico do Arieiro, the island's third-highest peak. You can drive or take a bus to the summit and enjoy the stunning views of the island's valleys and peaks. Afterward, head to Porto Moniz, a seaside village famous for its natural pools. These volcanic rock pools are filled with crystal-clear seawater and offer an opportunity to swim and sunbathe surrounded by stunning landscapes.
You can get around Madeira via public transportation, taxis, or rental cars. Buses and taxis are readily available and reasonably priced. If you choose to rent a car, keep in mind that the island's roads can be steep and narrow in certain areas. The estimated cost for transportation during this itinerary is $40.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to the charming village of Santana, known for its traditional A-shaped houses. You can also take a boat tour to observe dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. If you have less time, you can skip the Levada walk or the Botanical Garden. Don't forget to try Madeira's signature dish, "espetada," a skewered beef dish cooked over hot coals.
Madeira Airport (FNC), also known as Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, is the primary airport serving Madeira. It is located in Santa Cruz, 10 km east of Funchal, and has the IATA code FNC. The airport offers direct flights to major European cities, including London, Paris, and Frankfurt, and is well-connected to the city with buses and taxis.