Best of Madeira

On this 8-day itinerary, experience the volcanic island of Madeira with its lush green and rugged landscapes and its vibrant culture. Begin your stay in Porto Moniz, featuring a complex of natural swimming pools that were formed by lava flows. After relaxing for a few days, move to Funchal, the Madeira archipelago’s capital. Funchal is famous for its gardens, harbor, and Madeira wine cellars.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Welcome to Madeira

Upon your arrival at Madeira International Airport, you’ll be met by a driver and transferred to the northwest corner of the island and your hotel in Porto Moniz. The day is then yours to enjoy.

Day 2:

Free Day in Porto Moniz

Spend your free day soaking up some sun and swimming in the natural swimming pools located just below the hotel. You may also wish to visit the Madeira Aquarium, just a 10-minute walk from the hotel. The Aquarium was constructed in the old fort of Saint John the Baptist and offers 12 exhibition tanks where the various habitats of the Madeira marine world are represented. The most impressive tank contains about 500,000 liters of salt water!

Day 3:

Free Day in Porto Moniz

Today is yours to enjoy however you see fit. Relax at the hotel, explore Porto Moniz, or perhaps ride the cable car at Achadas da Cruz. The cable car connects the village of Achadas da Cruz to the tiny village of Fajã da Quebrada Nova by the beach and provides breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline.

Day 4:

Welcome to Funchal

After breakfast at your hotel in Porto Moniz, meet your private driver and transfer to your hotel in Funchal. Drop your bags and explore the charming city streets. Stroll down to the waterfront and relax at a cafe.

Day 5:

Half-Day Whale & Dolphin Watching Excursion

The waters surrounding Madeira are home to many species of whales and dolphins. Today, take a relaxing trip along the southern coast of Madeira in a catamaran and you are guaranteed to see cetaceans in their natural habitat. In warmer weather, the boat will anchor under the Cabo Girao cliffs, where you can try a bit of snorkeling or just swim in the warm Atlantic Ocean, or sit back and relax with a soft drink in the sun. Upon return, spend the rest of your day exploring Funchal.

Day 6:

Half-Day Nuns Valley Tour

This half-day tour will take you to the central part of the island to experience the beauty of Nuns Valley. This area is surrounded by mountains and the sea. While visiting the village of Câmara de Lobos on the coast, you will have the opportunity to try some local drinks and traditional specialities.

Day 7:

Free Day in Funchal

Today is yours to explore however you would like. Sleep in, take a swim in the hotel pool, or stroll through Funchal. Visit Funchal Cathedral, ride the cable car, or explore some of the city’s beautiful botanical gardens.

Day 8:

Until Next Time

After breakfast, use the last of your time in Funchal to shop for souvenirs or simply relax at a café before your transfer back to the airport for your flight home.