New Year’s Eve Luxury Extravaganza in Madeira

Among its many wonderful attributes, Madeira is known the world over for its New Year’s Eve Celebration. As the pinnacle of the holiday season, Madeira’s amazing fireworks display was officially recognized in 2006 by the Guinness Book of World Records as being the largest in the world! This 5-day itinerary lets you start the new year in luxurious style, featuring a stay at a 5-star hotel in the city center, a full-day tour of the island, and a New Year’s Eve gala celebration.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Welcome to Madeira

Upon your arrival at Madeira International Airport, you’ll be met by a driver and brought to your hotel in Funchal center to drop your bags. The day is then yours to explore the charming city streets. Stroll down to the waterfront and relax at a cafe.

Day 2:

Full-Day Porto Moniz Tour

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel for a day-long tour of the northwestern side of the island. Enjoy the countryside off the beaten track in a 4x4 vehicle, taking in the forests and waterfalls. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to swim at the volcanic lava pools and sample local food and traditional drinks, including the "poncha". You will also visit Serra d'Água, Ginjas, Estanquinhos, Paúl da Serra, Fanal, Ribeira da Janela, Porto Moniz, Seixal and São Vicente.

Day 3:

New Year's Eve

Before tonight’s celebrations, today is yours to explore however you would like. Visit Funchal Cathedral, ride the cable car, or explore some of the city’s beautiful botanical gardens. Save your energy though, as tonight will be a once in a lifetime experience! You will enjoy a fabulous gala dinner at the hotel before you head out onto the streets to join the party. The fireworks show lasts for about eight minutes and fireworks are set off from the Funchal amphitheater, the waterfront, the city centre, the sea, and Porto Santo Island. This grand spectacle is one of Madeira’s most important tourist events and everyone attends and celebrates: on the streets, on the large cruise ships or on dozens of yachts in the Bay, in private homes, in exquisite party halls, and hotel ballrooms.

Day 4:

Free Day in Funchal

The first day of the New Year is yours to spend however you see fit! Sleep in, take a swim in the hotel pool, or start the year with a cold ocean plunge. Then stroll through the streets of Funchal like a local.

Day 5:

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.