15 Best Day Trips from Funchal That You Need To Take in 2024
LOOKING FOR THE BEST MADERIA DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL?
Have you heard of the island of Madeira? Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, southwest of Portugal. The island itself covers an area of approximately 741 square kilometers (286 square miles).
The island’s capital is Funchal, known for its harbor, gardens, and Madeira wine cellars (🍷). It’s a historic city that blends modernity with rich Portuguese heritage, making it a popular tourist destination.
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Although Funchal is an incredible city, what lies outside of the city is why this Portuguese island has become so famous.
Madeira is known for its incredible nature, the mountains, levada walks, the ocean, and so much more, all of which are just a hop-skip-and-a-jump from the capital city.
So, are you ready to learn about the best day trips from Funchal? Let’s go.
15 Best Day Trips from Funchal
1. Porto Moniz
Porto Moniz is located on the island’s northwestern side and is about an hour’s drive from Funchal. The most famous thing this city offers is the Piscinas Naturais do Aquário (or natural swimming pool). The entrance fee is around €3 euros. and once you are in, there are lounge chairs, a bar, restaurants, a cafe, and a breathtaking ocean view as far as the eye can see.
There’s also an incredible viewpoint called Miradouro da Santinha, where you can get a fantastic view of Porto Moniz and Ilheu Mole Island.
If you have some extra time after spending the day relaxing at the pools, you can head to the Aquário da Madeira, a small aquarium with over 90 different species of local marine life. The aquarium also offers the possibility of scuba diving within its waters.
🌊 THE PISCINAS NATURAIS VELHAS
Check the weather conditions before coming here. The pools will be closed if the ocean is too agitated and the waves are too big. If the waves are too big, head to the Piscinas Naturais Velhas.
Just a 5-minute walk, these pools are totally rustic. They are undeveloped and unspoiled. Instead, they are simply a series of rocks that create natural protection. This keeps the waves down and provides a natural swimming pool-like atmosphere.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
2. Levada Walks
There are more than 1,350 miles (1,170 km) of levadas across the island of Madeira. The most popular is the Levada das 25 Fontes. It’s a 6-mile (10 km) hike that takes you along a narrow path through the jungle and ends at a waterhole with a waterfall you can swim in. This hike is about an hour’s drive from Funchal.
The closest levada to Funchal is the Levada Serra do Faial. It’s a 7-mile (11 km) hike through a forest with a waterfall at the end. This hike is not as impressive as the Levada das 25 Fontes, but it’s just a 20-minute drive compared to an hour drive.
There are so many different levada hikes that you can do; you can choose to either drive there yourself or take one of the many tours that are offered from Funchal.
Some popular levada hikes? Some of my favorites include:
- Levada Ponta do Pargo: 10.5 km (6.5 miles) loop. It is moderately difficult and has a total incline of 400 meters. Highlights include a quiet trail, spectacular cliffs, and viewpoints.
- Lagoa do Vento Hike (PR 6.3) is 7 km (4.3 miles) out and back. It is easy and has a total incline of 300 meters. Highlights include a beautiful waterfall and lagoon, suitable for all ages.
- Caldeirão Verde Waterfall Hike (Levada do Caldeirão Verde) – PR9: 12.9 km (8 miles) round trip. Easy elevation gain of around 91 meters. Highlights include green scenery and a beautiful waterfall, which require a light source for tunnels.
- Levada do Rei Trail (PR18): 9.2 km (5.71 miles) return. Easy hike with an elevation gain of roughly 504 m (1653 ft). It is an experience among trees and lush greenery with a well-maintained trail.
- Levada do Alecrim (PR6.2): 7 km round trip. Easy. Waterfall hike featuring a main waterfall and pool, ideal for a short excursion
But what is a levada? A levada is an irrigation canal or aqueduct used to distribute water from the rainfall-heavy regions in the north to the drier regions in the south, supporting agriculture and human consumption. They are now popular scenic walks and trails.
📲 There are many different types of hiking options in Madeira that cater to every type of hiker, from the more seasoned to the beginner. But it can be hard to find the one perfect for you. That is why the WalkMe app was created. This app gives you maps and directions for more than 50 walks around the island. Be aware that it is not free. You’ll have to pay a small fee.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
3. Santana
This little municipality on the north coast of Madeira is just a 45-minute drive from Funchal and is known for its A-frame cabins. The best place to see these houses is Casas Típicas de Santana. They have houses you can visit and tour and little shops to buy local crafts and souvenirs.
When you’re done visiting the houses, you can go to the Aguage Waterfall, which is right on the city’s edge. Then there’s the Fortress of Faial, an 18th-century fort that was used as a lookout to watch for invaders and pirates.
Finally, there’s the Miradouro do Guindaste. This viewpoint offers amazing cliffs and ocean views that will take your breath away.
Santana is part of Madeira East, and if you are looking to visit multiple things in one day, this Madeira East Island Funchal tours is the perfect choice. One of the best Funchal day tours, on this tour you’ll head to Pico do Arieiro, the Laurissilva forest, Santana, and the traditional village of Camacha. You’ll also enjoy a 3-course lunch and wine on Grutas do Faial Island.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
4. Câmara de Lobos
Câmara de Lobos is located about nine km (around six miles) west of Funchal and was reportedly one of Winston Churchill’s favorite places in the world.
It is known for its Baía de Câmara de Lobos harbor, where you can see little fishing boats heading out to sea. There’s also a beach nearby called Praia de Vigário, where you can relax and get away from the crowds of Funchal.
You can wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets. And, of course, get some fresh seafood. Try the grilled scabbard at Gavião do Ilhéu. If you are looking for things to do in Madeira Beach at night, then make sure to head to this quaint beach town.
Another option is watching the sunset from the Teleférico das Fajãs do Cabo Girão. It takes you 1,000 feet (300 meters) straight up the side of a cliff and gives you a view of the ocean and Funchal on the way to the top.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
5. Valley of the Nuns (Curral das Freiras)
The Valley of the Nuns is one of the most beautiful locations on the island. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Funchal, but what’s more incredible than the city is the view of it. Instead of going into the tunnel that takes you to the city, you can go up to the top of the mountain to the Paredão viewpoint. From there, you get a view of the Curral das Freiras city and its high mountains.
Below this viewpoint is the Miradouro Eira do Serrado, another viewpoint that gives a closer view of the city. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Estalagem Eira do Serrado Hotel to the viewpoint.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
6. Cabo Girao Skywalk
The Cabo Girão Skywalk is a viewing platform where you can look straight down 2,000 feet (600 meters) to the rocks and sea below. The views from here are incredible, and you can see the city of Funchal on a clear day.
If you really want to enjoy the view, there’s a little cafe here where you can relax and take it all in. The Skywalk is in the city of Câmara de Lobos and the drive to get to it is just as amazing as the viewpoint itself.
This is not the most exciting thing to do on the island, so don’t feel bad if you need to skip it. It takes around one hour to visit. If you are on a full-day tour, the Skywalk is often bundled with other sights, like Porto Monize and the Fanal Forest.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
7. Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike
This is a strenuous hike that should be taken seriously. It’s a 7-mile (11 km) out-and-back hike with 3,600 feet (1,100 meters) of elevation gain. The hike is near the Valley of the Nuns, with views of the valleys and steep mountains.
Your best bet is to book a tour that will drop you off and pick you up. If you choose to drive, you must make the journey out and back again.
To get to the hike, drive to the Parque de Estacionamento Pico do Areeiro, where the hike starts. The trail has many lookout points that offer amazing views of the island. It finishes at Pico Ruivo, the highest point in Madeira and high above the clouds. It’s one of the most popular hikes in Madeira, so get there early when it’s less crowded and cooler weather.
A quick tip: Hiking in Madeira without car is possible. If you plan on doing this hike, arrange the proper transportation. Ensure you get dropped off at Pico do Areeiro and arrange for a driver to pick you up from Pico Ruivo.
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8. Watch the Sunset At Pico Do Areeiro
If you’re looking for an easier option, you can watch the sunrise at Pico do Areeiro and skip the hike. This will still allow you to catch some extraordinary views at the best time of day. The best way to get here is via car or a tour, like this Sunrise Tour with Coffee/Tea and Breakfast.
If you are coming by car 🚘, make sure to arrive early, as parking spaces at the car park are limited and fill up quickly. We left at around 5h30 in the morning and arrived at 6h30. The parking was almost full.
You must walk about 15 minutes from the parking area to the viewpoint. Make sure to have a flashlight with you, as it will be pitch dark. Head to the entrance of the PR1 Vereda do Areeiro. You’ll walk around 10 minutes before you get to the spot where you’ll see people setting up shop to wait for the sunset.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
9. Monte
Monte is a neighborhood in the city of Funchal. There are many things to do here, but the Madeira Botanical Garden wins for the most beautiful. You can drive here, take a tour (like this Monte Tropical Garden & Toboggan Tuk-Tuk tour), or take the Funchal-Monte Cable Car from Largo das Babosas, which gives you a view of the Monte Valley and the city of Funchal below before arriving at the Madeira Botanical Garden.
Another famous garden area is Monte Palace Madeira. This garden is on the other side of the valley from the Madeira Botanical Garden and has plants from around the world, many species of birds, and even minerals.
There’s a lot to do in Monte, so give yourself a full day to experience it all.
Another popular thing to do in Madeira? Take a 2 km (1.2 miles) ride down the streets on a toboggan. These baskets were traditionally used to transport goods (and people) quickly down the mountain.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
10. Santa Cruz & Machico
Santa Cruz is the city you’ll be flying in and out of if you’re flying to Madeira. The best thing to do in this little city is visit the Parish Church of Santa Cruz, which was founded in 1456. There’s also an excellent bakery shop called Doce Satisfação, where you can get delicious sandwiches, coffee, and all kinds of pastries.
Machico is the place to go if you want to relax on the beach. Praia de Machico is a beautiful sand beach protected by rock walls, making it the perfect spot for families. This city is in a valley, so you can drive up to either side and get amazing views of the city below.
These two towns are about a 30-minute drive from Funchal and on the island’s east side.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
11. King Christ Statue & Garajau
The King Christ Statue is a statue of Jesus that overlooks the ocean and is high up on a mountain. The statue was erected in 1927 and was actually dedicated before the famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil.
Garajau is a nature reserve far below the Christ statue on the beach. It can be reached by cable car or walking (although I recommend the cable car).
The beach is stone, but most people come here for the incredible snorkeling and scuba diving. You can swim with colorful fish in crystal clear water, which is best done with a tour. This is a stone beach, so make sure to pack your water shoes to protect your feet!
Want to explore Funchal and visit the Christ statue? Climb aboard tthis sidecare for a private tour of Funchal Old Town, East Old Roads, and the Christ Redeemer Statue, one of the best day trips from Funchal.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
12. Calheta
Calheta is best known for being one of the few places on Madeira with a sandy beach. It also has a microclimate and is sunny most of the year compared to the rest of the island, which sees a lot of rain.
The sand at this beach was imported from North Africa, so although it’s not a natural sand beach, it’s just as beautiful. This was hands-down one of my favorite day trips from Funchal.
This area has many restaurants, beach bars, and beach clubs, so you can relax in luxury while you soak up the sun. Calheta is about a 40-minute drive from Funchal and is the perfect place to spend a day on the beach while sipping a cocktail.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
13. Fanal Forest (Laurissilva Forest)
The Fanal Forest is located on the Northwestern part of the island and is about an hour’s drive from Funchal. It’s part of the Laurisilva Forest and is full of levadas, lush greenery, and stunning viewpoints of the surrounding mountains. This is the perfect place to picnic, relax, and enjoy the outdoors.
The Fanal Forest is part of the larger Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s 20 million years old and is the largest laurel forest in the world. There’s much to do and see in this forest, such as riding bikes, hiking, sightseeing, etc.
But what makes this forest extra special is the strange mist that seems to linger around. It gives the forest an other-worldly feeling you won’t find anywhere else.
You can make this a quick stop or go for a hike. Several trails are available for any level of hiker. Looking for a tour? Check out this Jeep Tour, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pool, Fanal Forest, and Cabo Girao experience.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
14. Snorkeling with Dolphins
If you want a more adventurous activity, try snorkeling with dolphins. This was one of my favorite activities while in Madeira and is one I’ll never forget. Lobosonda is the company I went with, and they were amazing. You leave from Calheta Beach first thing in the morning in a zodiac boat that will take you about a mile offshore.
Once you reach the spot, you will get out and be towed behind the boat while spotted dolphins swim around you. It’s an experience you’ll never forget. It’s a two-hour tour, and you can swim or sit on the boat depending on your comfort. This is hands-down one of the coolest Madeira tours to do on the island.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
15. the Black Sand Seixal Beach
One of the best day trips from Funchal? Seixal Beach. This beach is renowned for its striking black sand. It is about 40 km (25 miles) from Funchal and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs. The deep blues of the sea are stunning next to the dark sand.
Unlike many of the other beaches on the island, this beach is fully sand. It is comfortable to sit on and great for swimming or surfing.
This is one of the places to visit in Madeira by car or tour (I recommend this Porto Moniz Lava Pools, Fanal Forest and Skywalk 4×4 Experience). There is easy parking at the beach, but it gets busy, especially later in the day. The beach has convenient facilities, including showers, toilets, and a cafe.
Where is Madeira Located?
Madeira is an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, southwest of Portugal. Its main island is also called Madeira, and it is part of Portugal. The archipelago is situated about 400 km north of the Canary Islands and 520 km west of Morocco.
The Madeira Archipelago consists of several islands, divided into two groups: the main islands and the Desertas and Selvagens Islands.
The main group includes two inhabited islands, Madeira and Porto Santo, and two groups of uninhabited islands, the Desertas and the Selvagens.
Madeira is the largest and most populous island, known for its lush landscapes, wine production, and cultural heritage. Porto Santo is smaller, with long sandy beaches and a quieter atmosphere.
The Desertas are a small group of three islands known for their natural reserves, and the Selvagens are a group of small islands with significant ecological value. Both serve as important sanctuaries for wildlife.
📍 MAP OF MADEIRA
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Madeira Weather
Madeira’s weather is pretty versatile, making it a year-round destination. Here’s the breakdown: it’s got a subtropical vibe, so expect warm summers and mild winters. Talking temperatures, you’re looking at lows around 13-15°C (55-59°F) in the cooler months and highs hitting 17-19°C (63-66°F) when it warms up.
But remember, if you’re exploring the levadas or hiking, it will be cooler, especially in the morning and evenings, so pack accordingly.
What is the best month to visit Madeira?
From July to September, temperatures in Madeira reach their highest, typically ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), making these months the warmest time of the year. This period is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy the island’s outdoor activities and beaches.
You’ve got two main seasons to consider: a wetter, slightly cooler winter from October to April and a drier, warmer summer from May to September. Heads up, though, high season is when the weather’s hottest, and low season has more rain but still plenty of charm.
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How do I get to Madeira?
Getting to Madeira primarily involves flying to Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC), located near the capital, Funchal. This airport serves as the archipelago’s main entry point.
Frequent and affordable flights are available from major European cities, including Lisbon, which is just a 90-minute flight away. Direct flights are also available from cities such as London, Bristol, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Leeds, Liverpool, and Newcastle upon Tyne through airlines like Jet2, easyJet, British Airways, and Ryanair.
Direct flights from North America are limited, so you’ll probably have to connect in Lisbon. Azores Airlines offers flights from New York to JFK. An interesting route for travelers from the East Coast of North America involves connecting via Ponta Delgada in the Azores.
🛬 MADEIRA AIRPORT DELAYS
Madeira International Airport is known for its challenging conditions caused by a relatively short runway and strong, unpredictable winds.
These factors occasionally cause flight delays, cancellations, or the need for diversions. It’s a good idea to have travel insurance just in case your flight changes. This makes visiting Madeira a bit of an adventure, so it’s smart to plan ahead.
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How do I get around in Madeira?
Getting around Madeira is straightforward. Public transport is great in Funchal, but to explore the island further, consider renting a car or joining a tour.
In Funchal, public buses are your go-to for getting around the city. They’re convenient and cover most areas well. But it’s harder to get around once you’re looking to step beyond the city limits.
There is no UBER on Madeira. Instead, you’ll find BOLT. But the problem with BOLT is that there aren’t nearly enough drivers on the island.
I found this hard when I arrived in Madiera at 11 p.m. The initial plan was to rent a car at the airport, but the prices were insane. So I opened my Uber app only to realize there were no Uber drivers. I then downloaded the BOLT app and again found no drivers available.
Taxis were there, but they wanted 45-50 euros ($48 USD) for a ride that BOLT listed at around 25 euros ($24 USD). I decided to wait because I was stuck at the airport and not keen on splurging for a taxi. After about 45 minutes, luck finally swung my way—a BOLT driver became available.
🚗 So, my recommendation? Rent a car. It’s your best bet for the freedom to roam Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes without the hassle of waiting for a ride. And for those moments when you’re not up for driving, tours are the way to go.
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Do I need to rent a car in Madeira?
Yes – you definitely need to rent a car in Madeira if you want to see as much as possible of the island. Madeira is a place where having a car can transform your trip, offering the freedom to explore all the magical sights of the island.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Car Transmission: Most rental cars in Madeira are manual rather than automatic. If you’re not comfortable driving a manual car, make sure to book an automatic well in advance, as they are less available and can be more expensive.
- Driving Terrain: The roads in Madeira are known for being very winding, with steep hills that can be a challenge, especially when parking uphill. The island’s beauty often comes with adventurous driving conditions.
- Parking and Roads: It’s common for people to park on the road, which can turn a two-lane street into a single lane that serves both directions.
- Driver Awareness: The mix of local and tourist drivers means you’ll encounter varying levels of driving skill. Caution is advised, especially since some visitors might not be used to the local road conditions.
- Navigation: While Google Maps is a helpful tool for getting around, it’s not always 100% reliable in Madeira. The directions may not be as accurate as you might hope due to the complex terrain and occasional lack of signal.
If you aren’t a confident driver, sticking to tours might be the better option. Staying in Funchal and taking organized tours to explore the island can provide a stress-free way to see Madeira’s highlights without worrying about driving.
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Where to stay in Madeira
Deciding where to stay in Madeira largely depends on two factors: whether you plan to rent a car and what you wish to explore.
If you have a car, splitting your stay between different locations can enhance your experience. When I visited Madeira, we decided to stay three nights in Cabo Girao, near Funchal, and then three days in Calheta. I would advise booking a central spot in Funchal if you aren’t driving.
Most attractions are towards the west, so planning based on what you want to see is key. This strategy ensures you get the most out of your Madeira visit.
Day Trips from Funchal: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Funchal Portugal worth visiting?
Yes, Funchal in Madeira is a great place to visit! It has nice weather all year, which means you can enjoy outdoor fun anytime. You can go on boat trips to see whales and dolphins, visit beautiful gardens like Quinta do Palheiro, and see cool places like the Sé Cathedral that’s really old and pretty.
There’s also a place called Madeira Film Experience where you can learn about Madeira’s history in a short movie , and museums with amazing art.
Don’t forget to check out the Old Town for cool street art and try the fun toboggan ride from Monte. Plus, there are peaceful gardens up high in Monte with pretty views and animals. So, Funchal has many different things to see and do, making it a spot worth visiting.
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How many days do you need in Funchal?
For a good visit to Funchal in Madeira, you’ll need about 2-3 days. This time lets you check out the main spots, enjoy some tasty food, and see places like the market or the old forts.
Funchal is also a starting point for day trips to explore more of Madeira’s amazing views and nature spots. Adding a few more days allows you to venture outside the city and discover even more beautiful places on the island.
I recommend spending around 6-10 days in Madeira, and even then, it probably won’t be enough. Yes, that’s how incredible this island is.
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM FUNCHAL
Can you get around Funchal without a car?
Yes, you can get around Funchal without a car. The city is fairly compact, making it accessible on foot, especially in the downtown area where many attractions are located close to each other.
Public transportation, taxis, or rideshare services can be used for destinations that are a bit further away, such as the Botanical Garden or Monte.
However, renting a car or joining a guided tour is essential if you want to explore more of what Madeira is famous for beyond Funchal, such as its stunning Levada walks, mountain peaks, and charming villages. So if you don’t want to drive, I recommend choose one of the many Madeira excursions from Funchal.
And no, taking day trips from Funchal by bus is not recommended.
While public bus service is in many parts of the island, buses may not always be the most reliable or convenient option for reaching more remote locations.
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Is there Uber in Funchal?
No — Uber is not available in Funchal, Madeira. Instead, Bolt is an alternative service that operates on the island, offering a similar experience to Uber for those looking for rideshare options.
This change occurred because Uber suspended its services in Madeira due to regulations. For getting around Funchal and exploring Madeira, besides Bolt, there are other options such as taxis, public buses, and car rentals which are also popular and convenient ways to navigate the island.
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Is Funchal safe to walk around?
Funchal is generally very safe for walking around, even at night. Like any city, it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions, but visitors often comment on the relaxed and secure atmosphere of the city.
Walking is one of the best ways to discover Funchal’s charming streets, waterfront promenade, and historical districts.
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Can I drink the tap water in Funchal?
Yes, you can drink the tap water in Funchal, Madeira. The water is sourced from natural springs and undergoes stringent quality controls, ensuring it is safe for consumption.
The municipal water supply in Funchal is rigorously tested to meet all necessary standards for consumption, so visitors and residents can confidently drink tap water without any concerns.
Final Thoughts: Best Day Trips from Funchal
And those are my options for the best day trips from Funchal. Exploring outside of Funchal on your trip unlocks the diverse charm of Madeira. Santana is a must-see, renowned for its quaint traditional thatched houses, a highlight on any Madeira day trips from Funchal. The magnificent Pico do Arieiro, with its stunning mountain views, is accessible for day trips from Funchal by car.
Heading to Porto Moniz offers a unique experience with its natural volcanic swimming pools. For those passionate about nature, Madeira’s Natural Park and its Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcase an extraordinary ecosystem.
These destinations offer unique experiences, from cultural insights to natural wonders, making them unforgettable full or even half day trips from Funchal. Whether staying a weekend in Funchal or one day in Funchal, remember to explore what it has to offer before heading out to explore the beauty of Madeira.