5-Day Adventure, City Experiences, Nature, and Foodie Itinerary in Madeira, Portugal

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, the perfect pairing 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

Enjoy 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 for the festive season; the views over the city are simply stunning.
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: Whale and Dolphin Cruise followed by Cabo Girão

Funchal & Cabo Girão, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel, preparing for an exciting day out at sea.
Right at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:15AM

Whale and Dolphin Cruise

Set sail from Funchal harbour for a thrilling cruise where you might see playful dolphins and majestic whales in their natural habitat.
Cruise starts from Funchal Harbour.
EUR50, 3 hours (9:15AM - 12:15PM)

12:30PM

Drive to Cabo Girão

After an exhilarating morning at sea, head to Cabo Girão, known for having one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, offering breathtaking ocean views.
Approximately a 30-minute drive from Funchal.
Fuel cost: EUR5, 30 minutes

1:00PM

Visit Cabo Girão Skywalk

Walk on the glass-bottom skywalk and take in the stunning views of the coastline and the Atlantic below—an unforgettable experience.
Easily accessible once you arrive at the viewpoint.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante Ponta do Sol

Enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the ocean at this lovely seaside restaurant.
A short walk from the skywalk.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Seixal Natural Swimming Pools

Experience the natural pools created by volcanic rock; a perfect spot for relaxation after a busy morning.
Drive towards Seixal, about 30 minutes from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Drive back to Funchal

Return to Funchal for a relaxing evening.
A 30-minute drive from Seixal.
Fuel cost: EUR5, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Relax at your accommodation

Take some time to unwind and freshen up before dinner.
Back at your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at A Cevicheria

Savour delightful modern seafood dishes with a Madeiran twist at this trendy restaurant.
A short drive or walk from your hotel.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Evening Celebrations in Funchal

Enjoy a lively nightlife atmosphere, perfect for concluding the day with local music and festive vibes.
Walkable from the restaurant.
EUR10, 2 hours
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Day 3: Pico Ruivo and Nature Adventures

Pico Ruivo and Levada do Caldeirão Verde, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel, gearing up for another day of adventure in Madeira's natural beauty.
Conveniently 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; 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 magnificent Curral das Freiras valley below.
A short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive to Santana

Venture 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 4: Cultural Delights and Coastal Gems

Ponta de São Lourenço, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at your accommodation to kickstart your day.
Located within your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

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

9:30AM

Hike the Ponta de São Lourenço Trail

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

12:00PM

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

1:30PM

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

3:00PM

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

4:00PM

Drive to Camara de Lobos

Venture towards Camara de Lobos once more, sometimes depicted in paintings for its captivating views.
Approximately a 30-minute drive from Machico.
Fuel cost: EUR5, 30 minutes

4:30PM

Enjoy the Sunset at Camara de Lobos

Witness a stunning sunset over the harbour, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.
Easily walkable from your parked car.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Casa do Peixe

Indulge in delicious seafood dishes at this rustic neighbourhood restaurant, famous for its local catch.
Located in Camara de Lobos.
EUR25, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening in Funchal

Return to Funchal and enjoy a leisurely walk through the historic streets, taking in the local atmosphere.
A 20-minute drive from Camara de Lobos.
Fuel cost: EUR5, 20 minutes
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Day 5: Cultural Adventures and Departure

Ribeira Brava, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at your accommodation to kickstart your final day.
Located within your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Ribeira Brava

Travel the scenic route to Ribeira Brava, known for its beautiful landscapes.
Approximately a 30-minute drive from Funchal.
Fuel cost: EUR5, 30 minutes

9:30AM

Explore Ribeira Brava Town

Stroll through the charming streets of Ribeira Brava, decorated for the holidays, and visit local shops.
Easily walkable in the town.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Ribeira Brava Church

Explore the beautiful architecture of the Church of São Bento, a historic gem in Ribeira Brava.
A short walk from the town centre.
Free, 30 minutes

11:30AM

Lunch at Restaurante Bravamar

Savour some local specialities at this seaside restaurant while enjoying picturesque ocean views.
Located in Ribeira Brava.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Drive to Ponta do Sol

Head towards Ponta do Sol, the sunniest town in Madeira known for its stunning cliffs and beaches.
Approximately a 20-minute drive from Ribeira Brava.
Fuel cost: EUR5, 20 minutes

1:30PM

Relax at Ponta do Sol Beach

Unwind on the golden sands of Ponta do Sol beach, making the most of the sunny weather and festive surroundings.
Easily accessible upon arrival.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Miradouro da Ponta do Sol Viewpoint

Witness breathtaking views from one of the highest viewpoints in the area, perfect for photography.
A short drive to the viewpoint.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Return to Funchal

Make your way back to Funchal for your final evening on the island.
A 30-minute drive.
Fuel cost: EUR5, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Restaurante Madeira

Treat yourself to a sumptuous farewell dinner, celebrating your journey through the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Madeira.
Located in Funchal.
EUR30, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll in Funchal

End your adventure with a leisurely walk through the streets of Funchal, appreciating the festive lights and local ambiance.
Explore on foot from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour
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