7 Days in Madeira
Although Madeira is a relatively small island, there are so many incredible things to see, so our ideal amount of time to visit Madeira is ten days. However, if you’re short on time, it’s possible to see most highlights on a Madeira 7-day itinerary!
If you’re spending 7 days in Madeira, stay in a hotel in Funchal for the entirety of the trip; it’s a great starting point for your itinerary.
Day 1: Funchal
Start your day early in the capital city of Funchal! Head straight to Funchal Market (best to visit on a Friday or Saturday as it’ll be in full swing), ideally before 10 AM, as that’s when the tour groups arrive. The market is the perfect place to take in the character of Funchal; watch locals bundling up flowers, selling fresh fish, and enjoying a coffee in one of the cute adjoining cafes.
Afterward, wander the city’s beautiful mosaic streets and squares, soaking up the street art at Rua de Santa Maria. It really feels like an island-style version of Lisbon! Read here more about everything you can do in Funchal.
Tip: Funchal Market is open from 7 AM, so if you want to see the market and street art free of crowds, we recommend getting there as early as possible.
Gardens in Funchal
After a delicious breakfast at Art Food Corner, take a cable car into the hills above Funchal, flying across the orange rooftops and picturesque streets. The cable car also brings you to your next stop: the stunning Monte Palace Gardens (open from 9.30 AM).
These gorgeous tropical gardens are some of the most beautiful we’ve ever seen, home to a blend of Mediterranean and Asian architectural influences that peek out between towering palm trees and unique plants.
Top Tip: On your return to Funchal, book a sled ride! Wicker basket sleds have been operating on these streets for many years, taking people down the hill to the city. They’re pulled by Carreiros, men dressed in traditional white outfits and straw hats, who also sing songs while you travel. It’s an absolute must-do on your Madeira 7-day itinerary!
Optional: Madeira Botanical Gardens
If you have more time on day one and want to see more of Funchal’s greenery, you can also take the cable car from Monte Palace to Madeira Botanical Gardens. However, if you only have time for one, we recommend Monte Palace Gardens; for us, they are the most impressive!
You should also check out the epic Sao Joao do Pico Fortress, which sits on top of a hill within the city, offering a fantastic vantage point for the many pirate attacks that once took place on the island. Time your visit here for sunset; it’s the perfect spot to watch the sun go down!
Tip: It’s a 20-minute walk between the Cathedral and the Fortress. Although the walk is uphill, the views are well worth it!
Funchal Food Tour
After the sun goes down, experience some of the fantastic food culture Maderia has to offer! Join a food tour with a knowledgeable local guide who will tell you everything you need to know about the island’s most exciting delicacies!
You’ll jump from restaurant to bar, trying everything from Poncha (a strong alcohol made from rum, honey, and sugar) to Espada (a fish dish topped with banana).
Tip: Funchal is a fantastic foodie city with endless excellent restaurants to try. Here are some of our favorites:
- Restaurant Informal
- Kampo
- Casa Mexico
- Il Vivaldi
- Basmati
- La Ao Funda
- Brunch Club (try the pancakes!)
- Ciao Pizzeria
- Fala Fala
- Akau
- Art Food Corner
- ComTradições
Summary: Madeira Day 1
Where to Stay in Funchal
Funchal is the perfect place to base yourself for your Madeira 7-day itinerary. It is a relatively small city, so you can base yourself in most areas and be close to the main attractions.
Many people stay in the Old Town to be close to the beautiful old buildings, historical sights, and quaint restaurants. (We stayed at Hotel Cajú and Viola Market Studios)
Otherwise, head to the newer part of town (between the Belmond Hotel and the Doca Do Cavacas Natural Pools) for bigger, more modern hotels. You could also choose a hotel in Monte if you want to get away from it all but still have easy access to the city.
Day 2: PR1 Hike (Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo)
Spend day 2 of your Madeira 7-day itinerary on the most epic hike in Europe! If the weather is good (check live webcams here), you can witness the most spectacular views from Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest point.
This jaw-droppingly beautiful trail starts at Pico do Areiro and takes 4-5 hours to reach the summit of Ruivo Peak. As you go, you’ll walk along narrow pathways balanced on sheer ridges, down mountain staircases, and through rocky tunnels. It is one of the most unforgettable experiences, particularly as you summit above the clouds, feeling like you’re on top of the world!
Find out everything there is to know about the Pico do Arieiro Hike on Madeira
Best Time to Hike PR1
Before we visited Madeira, we saw that the recommendation was to do the hikes as early as possible in the morning to avoid crowds. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case, and we were following behind a long line of people throughout the trail. So we decided to return to do the hike at sunset and, on the contrary, we had the mountain entirely to ourselves!
Note: We’ve planned most of the hikes on your Madeira itinerary for the afternoon. During this time, we found the trails to be the least crowded.
This incredible hike takes about 8 hours both ways. Alternatively, you can join an organized excursion with a pick-up from Achada Teixeira (a bit further from Ruivo), which shortens the time.
See availability for your self-guided PR1 hike (transfers also included)
Day 3: Whale Watching OR Levada Nova Hike
On day 3 of your Madeira 7-day itinerary, you have two options. If you have the energy after the day of walking before, you can lace up your boots and get ready for another fantastic hike: Levada Nova.
Alternatively, if you want something more relaxing, book a whale-watching tour and cruise the Atlantic Ocean by speed boat or catamaran.
Option 1: Whale Watching Tour
Take to the water for a chance to see the majestic whale! Pilot Whales and Sperm Whales live here year-round. However, between April and November, you might also get lucky enough to see the Blue Whale, the largest mammal living on Planet Earth! You’ll also be able to see dolphins and beautiful birds and gain a different perspective of Madeira from the water.
Note: There are numerous sustainable whale and dolphin-watching tours that value the environment and keep a reasonable distance from wildlife. That being said, we recommend always reading the most recent reviews before booking.
Option 2: Levada Nova Hike
If you have the energy, hiking Levada Nova is a fantastic option for day 3 of your Madeira itinerary. Many ‘Levadas’ (water channels) exist across Madeira that were once used to direct water towards the towns. These days, these channels serve as beautiful hiking routes, leading to luscious forests and waterfalls.
Levada Nova is a 3.5-circle route that follows the water channel, passing along cliff edges and underneath pretty waterfalls. Here, you can stand for a moment and appreciate the refreshing spray. As you walk, you’ll also discover beautiful views of the farmland and coastline.
Tip: Although most of this hike has railings, some areas are without, which can feel daunting, especially if you’re scared of heights.
Afternoon: Ponta do Sol
Ponta do Sol is a colorful coastal town on the southern coast of Madeira, famous for having the most hours of sunshine annually! Head here after your whale-watching or hike to admire its dramatic cliffs and hilltop houses, much like the villages of Cinque Terre in Italy. This place was Hannah’s favorite town in Madeira.
Afterward, have an early dinner or a late lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants and dine on some delicious seafood. (we recommend Sol Poente Restaurant)
Getting there: Ponta do Sol is a 10-minute drive from Levada Nova. If you’re arriving here from your whale-watching tour, choose one on the south coast to minimize driving time.
We recommend to rent a car in Madeira through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
Waterfall of the Angels
As the sun goes down, head just outside town to the famous Waterfall of the Angels. The falls plunge over the edge of the cliffs onto the coastal road below, meaning you can drive almost within touching distance.
Note: If you have more time, we recommend walking from Ponta do Sol to the Waterfall of the Angels. It takes 25 minutes and also reduces the risk of getting stuck in traffic along the coastal roads.
Summary: Madeira Day 3
- Whale-watching or Hike Levada Nova
- Ponta do Sol
- Waterfall of the Angels
Hike PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço
Drive 5 minutes from the viewpoint to the beginning of the PR8 hiking route, where you’ll begin your 1.5-hour walk to the sensational ‘Dragon’s Tail’ peninsula. This 6-km circular route crosses over orange volcanic rock and arid cliff-top landscapes, a stark difference from the luscious greenery of the west.
This is because the eastern coast of Madeira sees much stronger winds and less rain, creating a much more rugged and wild atmosphere.
As you stand at Miradouro Ponta do Furado, the last stretch of coastline looking out onto the ‘Dragon’s Tail’, it truly feels like you’ve reached the end of the world.
Read our guide: How to Hike PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço
Allow 2.5-3 hours for this hike (roughly 1.5 hours each way). We recommend doing it straight after sunrise when the temperatures are still cool. You’ll also need to pay a small entry fee of 1 EUR to hike the trail—well worth it!
If you don’t have a car on your Madeira Portugal itinerary, you can take bus 113 from Funchal directly to the start of the hike.
Lunch Overlooking the Peninsula
Time your hike so you can enjoy lunch at Casa do Sardinha Sea Spot Cafe, a small restaurant with one of the best views in Madeira! It’s located near the end of the hiking route, meaning you can only reach it on the PR8 trail or by boat. Because of this, it’s incredibly peaceful; there will only be you and a few other hikers enjoying the views and the small adjoining beach.
Opening Times: 10 AM – 6 PM (reserve your table online).
Afternoon: Funchal Pools
The Doca do Cavacas is a set of stunning volcanic natural pools conveniently located just 10 minutes outside Funchal. After your active morning of hiking, spend the rest of the day winding down at the rock pools, enjoying the soft sunset light and the beautiful views.
Opening times and entry fee: A day ticket costs 5.50 EUR. The pools are open from 10 AM to 8 PM but always check before your visit, as they can be closed when the sea is too rough.
Madeira Itinerary Day 4: Option 2
Relax on Calheta Beach
Option 2 takes you to the famous beach town of Calheta, where you’ll find one of the few sandy beaches in Madeira. Although it may not have the same wild and beautiful scenery, this beach is top-rated because of its soft sand, restaurants, and a multitude of watersports on offer. Spend your morning relaxing on the sandy shores, renting a sunbed and a parasol for the ultimate relaxation!
Afterward, grab a delicious lunch at Manifattura Di Gelato Restaurant, which serves fresh seafood, pasta, and salads and has a beautiful view of the marina.
Tip: Calheta is also a great place to stay in Madeira because of its fantastic beach and amenities. If you choose to stay here instead of Funchal, you can always change the days around on your 7-day Madeira itinerary. (see all hotels in Calheta)
To reach this spectacular sight, follow the Levada irrigation channel on a 9 km round trip, which takes roughly 3 hours. Although you’re aiming for the 25 Fontes at the end, make sure to also look out for signs to Risco Waterfall, about halfway along the trail. It adds a little more time to your hike, but it’s well worth it!
Getting to PR6
If you’re staying in Funchal, drive 1 hour to the parking lot (location here). From here, it’s a 2 km walk to the beginning of the hiking trail. However, if you want to conserve energy, you can also take the shuttle bus, which costs 5 EUR for a return ticket. Please note that they only accept cash.
Summary: Madeira Day 4
- Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto
- Hike: PR8
- Funchal Pools
– OR —
- Calheta Beach
- Manifattura Di Gelato Restaurant
- Hike: PR6 25 Fontes
Day 5 of Your Madeira 7-Day Itinerary: Northern Roadtrip
Day 5 of your 7 days in Madeira takes you to the north of the island, which feels more remote, rugged, and untouched. For the most flexibility, rent a car to enjoy the ultimate road trip!
Fanal Forest
Located in the northwest of the island, discover the fairytale forest of Fanal. In the morning, a thick mist rolls in, swirling between the twisted, gnarly tree trunks.
It is magical to watch this natural phenomenon as the sun rises, creating dappled light through the forest canopy. Some of these trees are said to be over 800 years old!
Tip: Seeing the mist is not guaranteed, but you’ll have the most chance early in the morning, so set your alarm early!
Teleferico das Achadas da Cruz
Spend the rest of your morning high in the sky, flying high above the cliffs on the unforgettable Teleferico das Achadas da Cruz! Known as one of the steepest cable cars in Europe, it travels at a 45-degree angle with a jaw-dropping 98% incline. Enjoy the beautiful views before spending some time at the foot of the cliffs, where you’ll find beautiful fields of wildflowers next to the Atlantic.
Note: Time your visit for around 10 AM. You’ll need an hour or two for the whole experience so that you can get the cable car back (it closes between 12 PM and 1 PM). It may also be shut during adverse weather, so always check for updates online beforehand.
Porto Moniz Pools
Spend the afternoon at Porto Moniz, home to some of the island’s most beautiful volcanic pools! Formed from lava rock, these shimmering pools have varying water depths, so they’re perfect for relaxing and snorkeling. Although these pools are more commercialized than others in Madeira, some great amenities exist. For example, a cafe, locker rooms, and even a diving board!
Getting there: Porto Moniz Pools is a 25-minute drive further north from the cable car. If you don’t have a car, there is also a bus you can take from Achadas de Cruz to Porto Moniz (number 139). You can check the timetable here.
Miradouro Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela + Sao Vicente Church
Set your Google Maps route back to Funchal and make two stops along the way:
- Miradouro Ilheaus da Ribeira da Janela. Your first stop is just a five-minute drive from Porto Moniz, and it’s one of the most iconic viewpoints on the island, looking out over the Atlantic and directly onto several uniquely shaped rocks. Time your visit for the early evening when the mammoth formations are bathed in a golden glow.
- Sao Vicente Church. The next stop before Funchal is Sao Vicente, a small coastal village home to one of the most scenic churches in Europe! Nestled between the green mountains, a small hill emerges from the valley floor, with a picturesque whitewashed church perched on its summit. Climb the 200 steps that wind up the hill for one of the most fantastic views on your Madeira 7-day itinerary!
Summary: Madeira Day 5
- Fanal Forest
- Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz
- Porto Moniz Pools
- Miradouro Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela
- Sao Vincente Church
Day 6: Eastern Exploration
Spend the penultimate day of your 7-day Madeira itinerary exploring the east of the island!
Seixal Beach
Although most of day 6 is spent on the east side of Madeira, start your day early at Seixal Beach in the north. This beach has to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Madeira, so it’s the perfect spot for sunrise, when the soft light hits the dramatic cliffs, making the verdant green mountains look their most vibrant.
Cafe Tip: After a dreamy sunrise, head into Seixal Town for breakfast. We recommend ordering pancakes at Snack-Bar Avista Navios. You’ll also have the most gorgeous view from here!
Véu da Noiva Viewpoint
Jump in the car and begin your trip along the coast to the east. Your first stop is the Véu da Noiva viewpoint, located just on the edge of Seixal Town. This beautiful viewpoint looks onto the Véu da Noiva Waterfall, which cascades down the green cliffs into the ocean in the distance. The exact location is here.
Did you know? Véu da Noiva means ‘bride’s veil’ in Portuguese, as locals have drawn comparisons between the bridal accessory and the silky-looking waterfall.
Afternoon: PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Spend your afternoon hiking the beautiful PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde, located within the Queimadas Forestry Park. The hike takes around 4 hours and follows narrow irrigation channels through lush forest and fern-covered grounds.
At the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with the magical view of Caldeirão Verde, a mammoth waterfall falling from approximately 100 meters. Read here more about PR9 in Madeira.
Getting there
From the Véu da Noiva viewpoint, it takes about 45 minutes to reach the start of the trail. However we recommend factoring in time on your journey for a quick stop at the traditional houses of Santana Village.
The cute triangular-shaped houses of Santana were once found all over the island. However, these days, there are only a handful left here in this village. Take a moment to admire their colorfully painted doors and frames and the unusually long thatched straw roof. Some are thought to be over 200 years old!
Lunch tip: Grab a bite at the garden restaurant ‘Restaurante A Chave’ in Santana!
Sunset at Miradouro da Rocha do Navio
Close off day 6 of your Madeira itinerary by watching the sky transform into cotton candy colors at Miradouoro da Rocha do Navio. This breathtaking viewpoint faces directly onto the bright blue ocean and verdant cliffs that lead down to Ponta de Sao Lourenço (the ‘Dragon’s Tail’ and the island’s most eastern point). It was both Hannah’s and my favorite viewpoint on Madeira!
Summary: Madeira Day 6
- Seixal Beach
- Pancakes at Snack Bar Avista Navios
- Véu da Noiva viewpoint
- Hike: PR9
- Santana Houses
- Sunset: Miradouro da Rocha do Navio
Day 7: Final Day of Your Madeira Itinerary
It’s the final day of your Madeira 7-day itinerary, and it’s time to head home after an unforgettable trip. However, if you have time, there are a few more activities to do before you leave.
Canyoning Tour
End your Madeira Portugal itinerary in the most thrilling way possible: canyoning! The rugged and dramatic landscapes of the island make it perfect for this adrenaline-pumping activity. On a canyoning tour, you’ll abseil down incredible waterfalls, tackle deep mountain gorges, and have the opportunity to see an untouched slice of Madeira with expert locals guiding the way.
Note: Don’t worry if it’s your first time canyoning; there are options to suit all levels!
Cristo Rei
On your route to the airport, you could also stop off at the famous Cristo Rei Statue (just a 15 15-minute drive from the airport). The mammoth 49-foot-tall statue of Jesus towers above the cliffs, looking over the ocean and back onto the bay of Funchal. It’s rumored that it inspired the construction of Brazil’s Christ the Redeemer statue!
You can also take the cable car down to Gurajau Beach if you want to have a last swim before your flight.
Where to Stay in Madeira
We recommend staying in Funchal for your 7-day Madeira itinerary for easy access to all the island’s highlights.
If you choose somewhere else, for example, a hotel in Porto Moniz or Calheta, you can always alter this itinerary to suit your location.
Wherever you choose, Madeira has a range of accommodations, whether charming boutique hotels, luxurious beach resorts, or lively hostels. Here are some other great accommodations on the island:
How Many Days in Madeira?
With so much to see and do in Madeira, you could easily stay for up to a month. In fact, many digital nomads choose to base themselves here for that very reason! However, 7 days in Madeira is still enough to see all the most beautiful sights on the island.
How to Visit Madeira for 7 Days
Start your Madeira itinerary by flying into the Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (yes, the famous footballer was born here!). You’ll find regular flight options from Portugal and the rest of Europe, although flight options increase in the summer months.
Note: The airport runway on the island is short and the often strong winds make this for a slightly hair-raising landing. However, hundreds of planes land here weekly, so please don’t worry.
From the airport, you can drive to Funchal in just 20 minutes. However, if you don’t have a car on your Madeira 7-day itinerary, you can take the Aerobus easily to the center (30 minutes). Buses leave approximately every half an hour, costing 6 EUR for a single or 10 EUR for a return. (see the full schedule here)
Getting Around on Your Madeira 7-Day Itinerary
By Car
Renting a car is the ultimate freedom for getting around this fantastic island! Especially if you’re only spending 7 days in Madeira, it allows you to cover greater distances in a shorter amount of time, whether making a sunrise mission to the peak of Ruivo or exploring remote coastal villages.
Note: Madeira is an epic road trip destination, so car rentals are very popular. Make sure to book well in advance of your trip to avoid disappointment.
We recommend to rent a car in Madeira through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
Important Driving Info
The highways in Madeira are fantastic, connecting towns all across the island, particularly the south, north, and east. The west has slightly fewer road options as it surrounds a large mountain, so your route may take longer.
Tip: Some parking garages in Funchal close between 2 AM and 6 AM, so bear this in mind, particularly if you’re planning a sunrise mission.
By Bus
Although renting a car is the best option for 7 days in Madeira, it is possible to reach many sights by bus. Rodoeste buses are great for reaching the west of the island, and on the south coast, you’ll also find yellow hop-on and hop-off buses, which connect the main coastal villages and top sites.
Tickets for the hop-on-hop-off bus cost 1.95 EUR from the driver. However, you can get them even cheaper if you load multiple journeys onto a Giro travel card. You can find machines to do this in Horarios do Funchal or the Anadia Shopping Center. (See the full bus schedule)
Book your hop-on hop-off bus tickets here (30 different stops on the south coast)
Organized Tour
Another great option is to join organized day tours, which are great for accessing the hiking routes you can’t reach by public transport. Tours go around the island and, depending on the activity, also include return transportation and a guide.
How Much Does 7 Days in Madeira Cost?
Considering Madeira is an island (usually more expensive), it’s very affordable, especially compared to destinations like Ibiza or Greek Islands like Santorini.
Because there’s a lot of variety, you can easily find something to match your budget, whether you want a 5-star hotel in Funchal or a reasonably-priced group tour. Although cards are accepted, it’s always a good idea to have cash on you, especially if you’re using public transport and parking ticket machines.
Tip: If you’re renting a car for your 7-day Madeira itinerary, choose accommodation with parking included. Hotel parking in Funchal costs a maximum of 15 EUR a day, which is much more than a standard city car park.
Madeira Itinerary: Our favorite restaurants
During your 7 days in Madeira, there are some fantastic local delicacies that we think you should try. For example, sweet Poncha rum, honey-soaked cakes (Bolo de Mel), and the strange (but delicious) Espada – a fish dish topped with bananas! Some of our favorite places to eat in Funchal are:
- Restaurant Informal
- Kampo
- Casa Mexico
- Il Vivaldi
- Basmati
- La Ao Funda
- Brunch Club (great pancakes)
- Ciao Pizzeria
- Fala Fala (veggie)
- Akau
- Art Food Corner
- ComTradições
- Prima Caju (breakfast & lunch)
Some other great spots to eat on the island are:
- Manifattura Di Gelato Restaurant (Calheta)
- Sol Poente Restaurant (Ponto do Sol)
- Snack-Bar Avista Navios (Seixal)
Tip: Tap water is available everywhere on the island, so bring a reusable water bottle and travel plastic-free!
Best Time to Visit Madeira
Known as the island of eternal spring, Madeira’s subtropical climate means consistently good weather. In fact, temperatures rarely drop below 15 degrees °C! We visited in late March/early April, and the warm and clear days were perfect for exploring.
Madeira is unique in that you can have all types of weather in one day! Especially if you’re traveling from the south coast (generally sunny) to the mountains, you’ll notice that the risk of rain increases and temperatures can drop quickly. Because of this, always be prepared with extra layers and a raincoat. You can also check the weather on the live webcams around the island.
By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost.
Thank you for your support. ♥️
- Find Hotels via Booking.com
- Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
- Find Flights to Madeira via Skyscanner
- Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
- Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
- Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.