7-Day Journey Through Madeira: The Ideal Road Trip Itinerary
Madeira Island goes beyond any expectations one might have. In this blog post, we'll unveil a 7-day Madeira itinerary designed to highlight the most breathtaking spots on this island known as the eternal spring.
Floating in the Atlantic Ocean, a thousand kilometers from mainland Portugal, Madeira emerges as Europe's answer to Hawaii. Its abundant greenery, mild subtropical climate, and dramatic volcanic terrain give the impression of a distant, idyllic paradise island. Yet, astonishingly, it's a mere stone's throw away—less than two hours by flight—from the European continent. The optimal way to soak in all of Madeira's splendors is by hitting the road. Renting a car and setting out on an unforgettable journey across the island not only provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace but also ensures that the most secluded and enchanting spots are within your reach, far surpassing the convenience of bus travel and significantly reducing transit times.
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Ready to plan your adventure? We've put together a concise 7-day Madeira itinerary featuring scenic hikes, levada walks, volcanic beaches, panoramic viewpoints, and picturesque towns, ensuring you capture the essence of Madeira's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.
Day 1: Explore Funchal
Kick off your Madeira adventure in the lively capital, Funchal, where your first stop awaits at the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens, perched above the city's hustle and bustle. As you explore this enchanting 7-hectare sanctuary filled with exotic plants, artful sculptures, and tranquil pathways, you'll encounter peacocks, swans, and koi fish adding to the garden's allure. For a seamless and enjoyable journey to this hilltop paradise, catch the Funchal Cable Car from the waterfront, close to the old town, and let yourself be whisked away to the gardens. Book a Funchal City Tour Here!
Immerse yourself in the essence of Madeira at the bustling Funchal Farmers Market (Mercado dos Lavradores), where colorful stalls are filled to the brim with fresh produce, flowers, spices, and seafood. Embrace the chance to taste an array of exotic fruits, such as various passion fruits, and the remarkable Delicious Fruit (Monstera deliciosa), characterized by its lengthy shape and a unique taste that blends the flavors of banana, pineapple, and custard apple.
Delve into the enchanting Old Town (Zona Velha) of Funchal, a district defined by its charming cobblestone pathways, ancient structures, and the unique Painted Doors art initiative that morphs the streetscape into a vibrant outdoor museum. Venture down Rua de Santa Maria, the bustling epicenter of Funchal's nightlife, where you can savor traditional pastries or the famously strong Poncha beverage in quaint, welcoming cafes.
Additional highlights in Funchal not to be missed are the historical Corpo Santo Chapel dating back to the 15th century, the striking yellow São Tiago Fort, and the informative Madeira Story Centre museum, each offering a unique glimpse into Madeira's rich history and culture. For those with a thirst for more, the lush Madeira Botanical Garden, the majestic Funchal Cathedral, and the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum provide diverse experiences ranging from natural beauty to sports legacy. We provide a wide range of activities and experiences to enhance your visit to Funchal, ensuring you won't miss anything!
Day 2: Discover the Northwestern Coast of Madeira Island
On day two of your Madeira adventure, set off on a road trip to explore the stunning northwestern coast. Begin in São Vicente, a quaint town nestled among steep, lush mountains, offering picturesque views and a serene atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk through its historic center and along the oceanfront, pausing for a relaxing cup of coffee. A short drive east brings you to Seixal, a coastal gem with breathtaking vistas. Make sure to stop at Miradouro do Véu da Noiva to witness the majestic Bridal Veil Waterfall and the surrounding cliffs. Seixal Beach awaits next, inviting you with its unique black sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and dramatic green mountains. Don't miss the Seixal Natural Pools, nestled among volcanic formations for a unique swimming experience.
Continue your journey to the viewpoints of Miradouro da Eira da Achada and Miradouro Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela for more panoramic views. Porto Moniz is your next destination, famous for its natural pools, offering options for both families and those seeking a more rugged experience. Cap off the day with a visit to the Achadas da Cruz cable car, claimed to be Europe's steepest, descending a near-vertical cliff to a secluded coastline. Below, discover a small traditional village, a pebble beach, and a scenic walking trail, all set against the backdrop of towering cliffs. This remote area, a true hidden gem, promises a serene and unforgettable experience away from the crowds.
Day 3: Embark on a Unforgettable Hike
Begin your third day in Madeira with an early start, driving up to Pico do Arieiro to catch the sunrise from one of the island's highest peaks at 1,818 meters (5,965 feet). The journey from Funchal takes approximately 45 minutes, but the early wake-up call is well worth it for the Miradouro do Juncal viewpoint, where you'll witness a sunrise unfolding above the clouds breathtakingly. Remember to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F) in the early hours, even in August.
Prepare yourself for an extraordinary hiking experience from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, the island's highest peak at 1,862 meters (6,109 feet). This challenging 12 km (7.5 miles) steep out-and-back trail ranks among the top three most beautiful hikes, offering spectacular views of deep green valleys, the Atlantic Ocean, and jagged peaks emerging from the clouds. The path includes several tunnels through the mountains, so don't forget a head torch or phone flashlight for safe passage. Reaching Pico Ruivo rewards you with sweeping panoramic views of Madeira. The return hike to Pico do Arieiro, though along the same trail, presents a fresh perspective with different vistas, making the experience uniquely rewarding each way.
Book your hiking adventure to Pico do Areeiro & Pico Ruivo here!
Day 4: Discovering Levada Walks and the Enchanting Fanal Forest
Continue your Madeira journey by venturing into the lush expanse of the Paul da Serra plateau, located in the island's western region. This plateau, known for its abundant rainfall, hosts numerous waterfalls and levadas, the iconic man-made irrigation channels that crisscross the island. Among these, Levada das 25 Fontes stands out as an accessible yet mesmerizing walk through forested trails leading to a quaint lagoon, encased by towering rock faces from which dozens of streams gracefully descend. For those seeking a refreshing dip, the lagoon's cool waters invite the daring.
Given its popularity, the Levada das 25 Fontes trail can get crowded, so an early start is advised to enjoy a more solitary experience. A detour on your return from the lagoon takes you to the majestic Risco Waterfall, culminating in an 11km (6.8-mile) round trip that typically spans 3-4 hours. Although our visit in August, one of Madeira's driest months, presented the waterfalls as mere trickles, visiting during the wetter season from November to April promises a more vigorous and stunning waterfall display.
After exploring the waterfalls, a drive to the enchanting Fanal Forest reveals an ancient laurel haven within Madeira's Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its ecological significance. The forest's gnarled, moss-draped trees and the frequent mist create an otherworldly atmosphere, reminiscent of a fairytale setting. These centuries-old trees, some over 600 years old, predate the discovery of Madeira itself. Amidst the mystical beauty, be mindful of the local cattle and the cooler temperatures, making a warm jacket and long pants essential for your visit.
Day 5: Coastal Treks and Beach Relaxation on Madeira's East Coast
Set your sights on the striking east coast of Madeira, preparing for an adventure that combines coastal trekking with moments of leisure on the beach. A visit to Ponta de São Lourenço, the easternmost tip of the island, is an essential part of any Madeira road trip. This elongated peninsula affectionately referred to as the "tail of Madeira," is adorned with awe-inspiring volcanic cliffs, rock formations, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Its stark, almost lunar landscape, marked by minimal vegetation, stands in vivid contrast to the lushness found elsewhere on the island.
As you trek along the cliffs, a well-marked hiking trail offers numerous vantage points to soak in the surrounding beauty from various perspectives. Along the way, a quaint cafe provides a welcome break for snacks or a refreshing drink. Though many choose to turn back at this point, venturing a bit further to the Miradouro Ponta do Furado viewpoint rewards you with stunning views of the Ilhéu da Cevada.
The round-trip hike along Ponta de São Lourenço spans an easy 8km (5 miles) and typically takes about 3 hours to complete. Given the exposed nature of the trail, it's crucial to pack sunscreen and ample water to guard against the sun. A short drive from this breathtaking peninsula lies Prainha Beach, one of Madeira's rare naturally sandy shores, offering a perfect oasis to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.
Learn more about our Van tour to the east side of Madeira Island!
Day 6: Exploring the Northeastern Charm of Madeira
Continue your exploration of Madeira by venturing into the island's northeastern reaches. Kick off with the Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike, a highlight among Madeira's levada walks. This trail escorts you through verdant Laurisilva forests, alongside quaint waterfalls, unveiling spectacular vistas of the island's green valleys and rugged mountains. The journey culminates at the enigmatic Caldeirão Verde, or "green cauldron," where a 110m (360ft) waterfall gracefully descends green moss-covered cliffs. Remember to bring a head torch or a smartphone with a flashlight, as the trail includes several tunnels. Spanning 12km (7.5 miles), the Caldeirão Verde levada walk is pleasantly flat and well-maintained, making for an easy 4-hour trek.
Afterward, make your way to Santana, renowned for its charming traditional houses. These whimsical structures, with their triangular thatched roofs and vibrant facades, seem lifted from the pages of a fairytale. The town center, near the Town Hall, is the prime spot to admire these houses, surrounded by a lovely flower garden and housing shops that offer local products and souvenirs. Conclude your day at the Miradouro do Guindaste viewpoint, an ideal spot for capturing stunning photographs and absorbing the breathtaking views of the ocean and Madeira's towering cliffs. For those longing for a seaside escape or a bite to eat, the Faial Beach Club, adjacent to the viewpoint, provides a perfect setting to relax and reflect on the day's adventures.
Day 7: Farewell Funchal - From Missed Attractions to Memorable Marine Encounters
On the final day of your Madeira journey, return to the vibrant city of Funchal, where you have the freedom to tailor the day to your liking. If there were any attractions you missed on your first day, now is your chance to catch up. Alternatively, for an unforgettable wildlife encounter, consider embarking on a dolphin and whale-watching tour—an experience that is sure to captivate any nature enthusiast. The waters around Madeira are a haven for large populations of whales and dolphins, with sighting chances touted to be between 85%-95%.
Such encounters with wildlife are unpredictable by nature. However, the overwhelmingly positive reviews for these tours suggest a good probability of success. Previous adventurers have reported thrilling sightings of sperm whales, pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, turtles, and other marine species, often coming within mere meters of the boat. This day offers a unique opportunity to either explore more of Funchal's cultural gems or seek out the majestic creatures of the deep. Book your whale-watching experience here! If you find yourself with some extra time on your hands, consider diving into our range of activities to make the most of your day. Discover more about the exciting activities we offer and enhance your Madeira Island experience by booking with us today!
If you have fallen in love with Madeira, take a look at our hassle-free packages that allow you to plan your dream trip to this beautiful destination. Our team of local experts has thoughtfully designed all our packages, ensuring that you don't have to worry about any arrangements. Simply sit back, unwind, and make the most of your vacation!