4-Day Adventure, City Experiences, Nature, and Foodie Itinerary in Madeira, Portugal (December 18th to 21st)

Day 1: Funchal City and Festive Atmosphere

Funchal, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café A. Família

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at this local café, known for its delicious coffee and pastel de nata, a perfect combination to energise your exploration.
Located within walking distance of many hotels in Funchal.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores

Immerse yourself in the local culture at this vibrant market, filled with fresh produce, exotic fruits, and stunning holiday decorations.
A short 5-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Cable Car Ride to Monte

Experience a breathtaking cable car ride up to Monte, offering remarkable views of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean, with holiday lights sparkling below.
The cable car station is a 5-minute walk from the market.
EUR16, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Explore the enchanting gardens adorned with festive decorations and stunning views over both the mountains and Funchal below.
Adjacent to the cable car station.
EUR12, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante O Barqueiro

Savour freshly caught fish dishes at this charming restaurant, a fantastic spot to enjoy local culinary delights.
A 10-minute walk from the gardens.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Botanical Garden

Discover the exquisite plant life and vibrant holiday displays at Funchal's Botanical Garden, a tranquil oasis in the city.
A 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Camara de Lobos

Head to this picturesque fishing village, famous for its beautiful harbour and colourful boats, where you can see holiday decorations lining the streets.
A 20-minute drive from the Botanical Garden.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Rest. do Forte

Conclude your day with a delightful traditional Madeiran dinner at this well-regarded restaurant offering festive dishes.
Return to Funchal; easy to access.
EUR25, 2 hours

9:00PM

Relaxing Evening in Funchal

Immerse yourself in the festive nightlife of Funchal; enjoy local poncha in one of the nearby bars decorated for the season.
Nearby; easily walkable from the restaurant.
EUR15, 2 hours
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Day 2: Scenic Views at Pico Ruivo

Pico Ruivo and Levada do Caldeirão Verde, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for an exhilarating day of adventure.
Right at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Pico Ruivo

Travel to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest peak, known for its breathtaking vistas and rich surroundings.
Approximately a 1-hour drive from Funchal.
Fuel cost: EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Enjoy the Views at Pico Ruivo

Arrive at the viewpoint and relish in the panoramic views of the island below; this is a perfect spot for memorable photos.
Easily accessible parking lot near the viewpoint.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Levada do Caldeirão Verde Hike

Set off on a scenic hike along the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, where lush greenery and beautiful waterfall views await.
Start the hike from the designated trailhead.
Free, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Curral das Freiras

Enjoy a local meal at a restaurant overlooking the valley, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Drive to Curral das Freiras, approximately a 30-minute journey from the hike.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Eira do Serrado Viewpoint

Experience breathtaking views from the Eira do Serrado, showcasing the majestic Curral das Freiras valley below.
A short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive to Santana

Head to Santana, famous for its traditional triangular houses that provide cultural insight into Madeira.
A 30-minute drive from Eira do Serrado.
Fuel cost: EUR5, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Explore Santana

Stroll through the picturesque streets of Santana, adorned with festive lights, and experience the local holiday spirit.
Easily walkable after arrival.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cantinho da Serra

Savour homemade Madeiran dishes at this cozy restaurant, complete with festive decorations that make it even more special.
Located centrally in Santana.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Evening Celebrations in Santana

Enjoy the lively nightlife atmosphere of Santana, filled with local music and vibrant celebrations.
Explore around the town centre.
EUR10, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature Gems and Coastal Views

Ponta de São Lourenço, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel, gearing up for another day of adventure.
Conveniently at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Ponta de São Lourenço

Travel to Ponta de São Lourenço, home to stunning coastal landscapes and unique geological formations.
Approximately a 30-minute drive from Santana.
Fuel cost: EUR5, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Hike the Ponta de São Lourenço Trail

Embark on a picturesque hike along the peninsula, enjoying breathtaking coastal views and diverse flora along the way.
Follow road signs to the hiking trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurante O Fiado

Enjoy local flavours at this friendly eatery situated near the beautiful landscapes of Ponta de São Lourenço.
Drive back towards Machico for lunch.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Machico

Discover the charming town of Machico, with its historical landmarks and enchanting holiday decorations.
A short distance from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Machico Beach Promenade

Take a leisurely stroll along the beach promenade, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and festive lights.
Just a short walk from the historic centre.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive to Porto Moniz

Venture towards Porto Moniz to explore its renowned natural swimming pools.
Approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Machico.
Fuel cost: EUR10, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Orca

Indulge in local seafood and regional delicacies while overlooking the stunning natural swimming pools.
Located within Porto Moniz.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening at Porto Moniz Natural Pools

Experience the illuminated natural swimming pools at night, filled with holiday spirit and serenity.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
EUR3, 1 hour
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Day 4: Cultural Delights and Relaxation

Calheta, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, soaking in the views before heading out for the day.
Conveniently located at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Calheta

Travel to Calheta, where beautiful beach views are complemented by cultural attractions.
Approximately a 1-hour drive from Porto Moniz.
Fuel cost: EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at Calheta Beach

Take time to unwind at Calheta Beach, known for its golden sand and tranquil atmosphere, decorated beautifully for the holidays.
Easily reachable upon arrival.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit the Casa das Mudas Arts Center

Explore local art and culture at this exceptional modern art centre, featuring festive decorations throughout.
A short drive from the beach.
EUR5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante a Casa do Velho

Indulge in traditional Madeiran dishes at this inviting restaurant near the Arts Center, making for a delightful meal.
Located nearby.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro

Wander through this historic estate, known for its beautiful gardens and festive decorations that enchant visitors.
Drive approximately 30 minutes from the restaurant.
EUR7, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Evening at Calheta

Enjoy a leisurely evening at Calheta, experiencing local festivities as the community comes alive with holiday cheer.
Easily accessible within Calheta.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Onda Azul

Dine on fresh seafood with stunning seaside views, immersing yourself in local flavours amid a festive atmosphere.
Located within the area.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Explore Calheta’s Nightlife

Conclude your trip by enjoying the local nightlife of Calheta, where festive energy fills the air and music welcomes you.
A quick stroll to various local spots.
EUR10, 2 hours
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