Funchal, Madeira 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Funchal City

  • Accommodation: Stay at the Quinta do Casa Branca or similar, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Funchal.

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Madeiran breakfast at Cafe da Cruz or Oasis Cafe.

  • Activities:

    • Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores for fresh local produce and flowers.
    • Explore the historic center of Funchal, including Sé Cathedral and the Carmo Church.
    • Take a stroll along the Avenida Arriaga and Rua Santa Maria for shopping and cafes.
    • Visit the Madeira Museum (Museu de Madeira) to learn about the island’s history.

  • Lunch: Savor traditional dishes at Restaurant A Tasca or Restaurante Santa Catarina.

  • Transportation: Funchal has an efficient bus system, but renting a car is recommended for greater flexibility.

Day 2: Monte & Cabo Girão

  • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or grab a quick one on the go.

  • Activities:

    • Take the cable car up to Monte and visit the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
    • Ride a wicker sled downhill from Monte to Ribeira Bote (optional).
    • Visit the Nossa Senhora do Monte Sanctuary for panoramic views of Funchal.
    • Head to Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

  • Lunch: Have lunch at Restaurant Miradouro da Ponta do Pargo or Restaurante A Toca.

  • Dinner: Dine at Restaurant Rei das Pratas for a taste of seafood.

Day 3: Levada Walk & Pico Ruivo

  • Breakfast: Start early with breakfast at your hotel or grab something on the go.

  • Activities:

    • Take a guided levada walk (water channels) such as Levada do Caldeirão Verde or Levada da Água de Vencados for a unique Madeira experience.
    • Head to Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak, and enjoy the stunning views (requires a guide and good hiking shoes).

  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or have lunch at a local eatery near your walk.

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner back in Funchal at Restaurant O Prego da Peixe, known for its fresh fish dishes.

Day 4: Dolphin Watching & Departure

  • Breakfast: Have a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a favorite spot in Funchal.

  • Activities:

    • Embark on a dolphin watching tour (book in advance) for a chance to see bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales.
    • If time allows, visit the Madeira Botanical Garden before your departure.

  • Lunch & Departure: Have lunch at a local restaurant near the port or airport, depending on your departure schedule. Bom apetite e boa viagem! (Good appetite and safe travels!)