Madeira & São Miguel: Foodie Adventure

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Madeira Island

   Welcome to Madeira! Transfer to your hotel (included). For a more comfortable arrival, we suggest adding early check-in to your hotel. Enjoy the warm weather on this paradise-like island that is known as the Island of Eternal Summer. Madeira is an oasis in the middle of the Atlantic, and you'll see why as soon as you set foot here.

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Stroll around Funchal’s historical streets: Funchal is the vibrant capital city of Madeira, an archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean and an autonomous region of Portugal. Nestled between the hills and the sea, Funchal is known for its picturesque setting, rich history, and lively atmosphere.
     • Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market)
     • Sé Cathedral
     • Santa Clara Convent
     • Museu de Arte Sacra (Museum of Sacred Art)
     • Blandy's Wine Lodge
     • Zona Velha (Old Town)
     • Praça do Município (Municipal Square)
     • Fortaleza de São Tiago (São Tiago Fort)
     • Marina and Waterfront
2. Day 2 Typical Night Dinner (Included)

   • Typical Night Dinner (Included): Immerse yourself in Madeiran culture with a delightful 3-course dinner at a traditional Funchal restaurant. Savor the flavors of the island while enjoying a lively folklore show that showcases traditional music and dance. You might even be invited to join in the fun and learn a few steps yourself! After dinner, cap off the evening with a breathtaking panoramic view of Funchal illuminated at night from a stunning viewpoint. Starting at 7:30 PM.
   • Suggestion for the day (before attending the dinner that is included):
     • Explore Madeira's stunning West Coast: Be amazed by the natural beauty of Madeira on this day trip! Explore the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, immortalized in a Winston Churchill painting. Journey onwards, marveling at the vineyards that produce the famed Madeira wine. Brace yourself for breathtaking vistas as you reach Cabo Girão, Europe's highest sea cliff, offering panoramic coastal views. Wind your way along the western coast, stopping at Ribeira Brava and the Encumeada viewpoint for stunning two-sided panoramas. Traverse the vast Paúl da Serra plateau, then indulge in a delicious lunch at Porto Moniz, known for its volcanic natural pools. As you drive towards São Vicente, admire the cascading waterfalls cascading through Seixal. Conclude your day with a visit to São Vicente before returning to your hotel. Click here to book this tour.
3. Day 3 Free Day for Personal Activities (Madeira Island)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Madeira's Enchanting East Coast: Ascend Pico do Arieiro, Madeira's third-highest peak accessible by car, and be mesmerized by the panoramic island views! Delve into the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest of Ribeiro Frio, a haven of nature in perfect harmony. Continue along the north coast, passing Faial before arriving in Santana, a charming town known for its unique thatched-roof houses. After a relaxing lunch, witness the dramatic rock formations and breathtaking views of Ponta de São Lourenço. Conclude your journey in Machico, the historic landing site of the island's discoverers in 1419, before returning to your hotel. To book this tour, please click here.
4. Day 4 Free Day for Personal Activities (Madeira Island)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Take the Day to Explore Funchal's Botanical Gardens: Discover the natural wonders of Funchal with a day dedicated to exploring its renowned botanical gardens, featuring the iconic Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
     • Start your day immersed in the exotic beauty of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. Lose yourself amidst its lush greenery, unique cultural exhibits, and perhaps even a graceful swan or two.
     • Then, go on an exhilarating Monte Toboggan ride, a one-of-a-kind adventure where wicker baskets whisk you down the streets.
     • Continue your botanical journey at the Funchal Botanical Garden in the city center. Marvel at the diverse plant life while enjoying breathtaking coastal vistas.
     • Throughout the day, savor the tranquility of these gardens. Capture vibrant floral colors, fragrant scents, and the unique essence of Madeira's natural wonders.
5. Day 5 Flight to São Miguel Island, the Azores

   Welcome to São Miguel Island! As you embark on the second part of your journey, your transfer (included) will be waiting for you at the airport. São Miguel offers breathtaking landscapes, from lush greenery to dramatic coastlines and volcanic formations. This island promises an off-the-beaten-path experience!

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Take the day to stroll around Ponta Delgada’s city streets. Ponta Delgada, the main city, is not only the hub of the island but the capital of the Azores. Ponta Delgada evokes all the charms of Europe with cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, and a thriving culinary scene. 
     • Portas da Cidade
     • Matriz Church
     • Portas do Mar (ocean promenade)
     • São Brás Fortress
     • Louvre Michaelense
     • Mercado da Graça Farmers' Market 
     • Carlos Machado Museum
6. Day 6 Hot Pool in a Pineapple Greenhouse and Pineapple Tour (Included)

   • Hot Pool in a Pineapple Greenhouse and Pineapple Tour (Included): Unwind in paradise at Herdade do Ananás! Soak in a warm (36°C) pool surrounded by lush pineapple plants. Enjoy the spa's tranquility with massages and a calming waterfall. Learn the secrets of Azorean pineapples on a guided tour, and capture a unique photo amidst the vibrant plantation. Towels, robes, and unforgettable memories included! (Meeting point: Herdade do Ananás, ring the bell upon arrival. Free parking is available). Starting from 5:00 pm.
   • Suggestion for the day (before the Hot Pool & Pinneaple Tour that is included)
     • The imposing Sete Cidades Lake - West of São Miguel: Your journey begins at 9 am with a convenient pick-up from your Ponta Delgada hotel (central locations only). Witness breathtaking panoramas from volcanic Pico do Carvão, marvel at the colorful Lagoa do Canário lake, and peer into the dramatic Boca do Inferno viewpoint. Continue to Vista do Rei viewpoint for iconic Sete Cidades views, then admire the landscapes from Cerrado das Freiras and Lagoa de Santiago viewpoints. Immerse yourself in local history at the Church of Saint Nicholas before concluding your exploration with a final stop at the Ponta do Escalvado viewpoint. Your tour concludes back at your hotel by 1 pm, leaving you with unforgettable memories of western São Miguel's wonders. Click here to schedule this tour.
7. Day 7 Wine Tasting - Azores (Included)

   • Wine Tasting - Azores (Included): Indulge in the rich flavors of the Azores with a 40-minute wine-tasting experience! Savor a selection of whites and reds from renowned vineyards across São Miguel, Graciosa, Terceira, and Pico islands, all expertly paired with regional cheeses. Delight in the crisp Chardonnay from Quinta da Jardinete, the bold Reserva white from Pedras Brancas, and a selection of other volcanic island specialties. (Wine selection may vary based on availability). Starting from 5:00 pm.
   • Suggestion for the day (before attending the Wine Tasting that is included):
     • Explore Furnas - The Island's Geothermal Gem: Immerse yourself in the magic of Furnas on this half-day adventure! Witness breathtaking panoramas from the Santa Iria viewpoint before descending into the charming village. Explore the fascinating calderas, and natural pools formed by volcanic activity, and unwind in the thermal waters renowned for their therapeutic benefits (entrance tickets not included). With your expert guide, delve into the rich history and local customs of Furnas, learning about the unique botanical wonders that thrive in this geothermal paradise. Savor a taste of the Azores at the Gorreana Tea Factory, and conclude your journey with awe-inspiring views from the Pico de Ferro viewpoint, overlooking the majestic Furnas Lake and valley. Don't miss this opportunity to discover the natural beauty and cultural charm of Furnas! Click here to book this tour.
8. Day 8 Free Day for Personal Activities (São Miguel Island)

   • Suggestion for the day:
     • Visit the impressive Lagoa do Fogo: Head to the majestic Lagoa do Fogo, a jewel of the Azores, on this half-day adventure! Begin with a breathtaking panorama of the north coast from the Santa Iria viewpoint. Then head to Lagoa do Fogo and soak in the beauty of the volcanic lake. Relax and capture unforgettable photos at Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa, offering stunning views of the lagoon and south coast. Want to explore the Caldeira Velha Interpretation Center or unwind in thermal pools? Let us know during booking! (entrance tickets not included). Your expert guide will share local history, culture, and flora throughout the tour. Immerse yourself in the Azores' natural wonder and rich heritage. Click here to book this tour.
     • Or embark on a whale and dolphin-watching experience: The Azores Islands are known for their unparalleled beauty and biodiversity, adored by outdoor adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. But what people may not know is that the Azores is also one of the fastest-growing whale-watching destinations in the world. Located in the Atlantic Ocean between Portugal and North America, the Azores are a permanent home and natural point of passage to more than 20 different types of whale and dolphin species, making the islands one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries. Click here to schedule this experience.
     • In the evening, say goodbye to the Azores with a Fado dinner: A captivating and deeply emotional experience that combines the soulful melodies of Fado music with delicious Azorean cuisine. As you enter a cozy, dimly lit restaurant, you'll be enveloped in an atmosphere of nostalgia and tradition. The hauntingly beautiful strains of Fado, performed by local musicians, fill the air, evoking a profound sense of saudade—the Portuguese longing for something lost. Click here to make your reservation. 
9. Day 9 Return Flight Home

   Thank you for choosing Portugal Getaways! We sincerely hope you had an incredible time during your stay in Madeira and the Azores. Your satisfaction is our utmost priority, and we strive to provide memorable experiences for all our guests. We look forward to welcoming you back again in the future for more unforgettable adventures.