Funchal, Madeira 6 Day Itinerary

Title: 6-Day Itinerary for Exploring Funchal, Madeira

Day 1: Arrival & City Exploration

  • Accommodation: Stay at the luxurious Belmond Reid’s Palace or the more budget-friendly Quinta Casa Branca.
  • Transportation: Rent a car for easy exploration, or use public transport (buses and cable cars) if you prefer. Taxis are also readily available.

Activities:

  1. Visit the Madeira Botanical Garden, home to various tropical plants from around the world.
  2. Explore the historic center of Funchal, including the Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ Market) and the Cathedral of Funchal.
  3. Enjoy panoramic views of Funchal from the Cable Car (Teleférico do Funchal).

Dining:

  • For dinner, try Restaurante Santa Catarina, offering traditional Madeiran cuisine with a modern twist.

Day 2: Levadas & Northern Madeira

  • Activity: Take a guided tour to explore the levadas (water channels) such as Levada do Caldeirão Verde or Levada do Água de Vida.
  • Lunch Spot: Stop at A Casinha da Terra for authentic Madeiran food in a charming setting.
  • Afternoon: Visit the picturesque villages of Santana, Ribeira Brava, and Porto Moniz in northern Madeira.

Day 3: Monte & Wine Tasting

  • Activity: Ride the Toy Train or take a levada walk to reach Monte village. Don’t forget to ride the famous Wicker Sleds down to Funchal!
  • Lunch Spot: Dine at Ca da Santa Lusa, a family-run restaurant in Monte with stunning views.
  • Afternoon: Visit a local wine estate for a tasting (Quinta do Bomfim, Justicia or Verdelho are good options).

Day 4: East Coast Adventure

  • Activity: Spend the day exploring the eastern coast, stopping at beautiful beaches like Calheta and Jardim do Mar.
  • Lunch Spot: Try Restaurante Oceano in Calheta for seafood dishes with ocean views.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Garajau Natural Swimming Pool or Porto Santo’s Beach if you prefer a different island for the day.

Day 5: Boat Tour & Dolphin Watching

  • Activity: Book a boat tour to see dolphins, visit sea caves, and swim in crystal-clear waters.
  • Lunch Spot: Have lunch aboard your boat or return to Funchal for a meal at Restaurante O Gaveto.
  • Afternoon: Relax at one of Funchal’s beaches (Lido, Caniço or Prainha) or visit the Madeira Aquarium if you prefer indoor activities.

Day 6: Departure

  • Breakfast & Departure: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the airport for your flight home.