Stroll through ancient streets in the lively capital of Madeira, Funchal, taking in the Portuguese atmosphere but with a laid-back island twist and getting to know its local gastronomy. You’ll spend three nights in a centrally located apartment with courtyard garden in the old town. After a glass of famous Madeira wine, stroll through the surrounding districts and discover countless sights to see.
Day 1 - Bem-vindo ao Funchal
Begin your journey through Madeira in the peaceful city of Funchal. Allow the relaxed island atmosphere to wash over you, before you venture out to explore more of the island. From the airport you can take a taxi to your apartment situated in a quiet part of the old town, within walking distance to terraces and traditional Madeiran restaurants.
Day 2 - Food and fun in Funchal
Now it is time to explore Funchal’s Portuguese architecture, narrow streets lined with colourful buildings and its many squares and terraces. In the arty district around Rua de Santa Maria you will find the artist’s project ‘Arte de Portas Abertas'. Visit the museum of local footballing hero, Cristiano Ronaldo, and marvel at the array of different fruits at Mercado dos Lavradores (farmers market), before having lunch at one of the small lunchrooms in the old town and tasting the popular alcoholic drink, poncha, made from cane sugar and lemon.
Day 3 - The other side of Funchal
Today you’ll head out further afield and learn that in addition to the old town and the modern part of Funchal, there is also a lot more for you to discover. You can take a cable car to the famous Funchal Botanical Gardens that look out over the city, the sea, the mountains and the banana plantations. A little further inland is a great national park that is a mecca for outdoor activities, such as canyoning, or off the coast you can watch whales or swim with dolphins all year round.
Day 4 - Departure from Funchal
This morning it’s time to leave Funchal and explore the rest of the island. We will arrange a rental car to be dropped at your hotel and you’ll be ready to go!
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Food & Funchal In Style Upgrade - Special Stay
For this bite-sized trip we have an alternative option available for your accommodation. Our In Style version is something a bit more special or unique but still with lots of local flavour! If you would like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-sized trip select our In Style option below.