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Madeira tickets and tours

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Nat Geo Day Tour: Sustainable Agriculture in Quinta Pedagógica da Camacha
Excursions & day trips

Nat Geo Day Tour: Sustainable Agriculture in Quinta Pedagógica da Camacha

Drive through Funchal's bustling town and Madeira's magnificent rolling hills towards Quinta Pedagogica da Camacha, a small farm committed to sustainable agriculture. Here, your National Geographic-trained guide will offer insights into the region and introduce you to the farm's owner, Bruno Santos. Having left accounting for agriculture, Bruno now dedicates his life to helping his neighborhood through sustainable farming, a lowered environmental footprint, and community outreach. Follow Bruno through flowering groves as you explore the grounds. You'll learn about the many uses for their freshly grown herbs and visit their strawberry plantation. Observe the fields and poios—what Madeirans call the terraced areas where they grow their crops—as you learn about the farm's produce and animal husbandry. The farm is home to various animals including chickens, goats, sheep, and more. There's even a small market Bruno created, to help other local vendors reach their greater community, inspired by the ‘buy local' mantra. You'll also experience a host of seasonal activities, offered exclusively to National Geographic travelers. Harvest ripe fruits and learn the proper techniques for sowing seeds in a planting workshop. This hands-on learning environment brings Bruno's sustainability and bio-friendly philosophy to life. Afterwards, you'll relax and enjoy refreshing tea brewed from the farm's own herbs, as well as homemade cakes, toast, and jams preserved from local fruits.

free cancellation
Available in:

de, en 

Enchanting East Madeira Tour with Lunch in Santana
Excursions & day trips

Enchanting East Madeira Tour with Lunch in Santana

The knockout natural beauty of eastern Madeira is in the spotlight on this full day tour. You'll have your head in the clouds at Pico do Areeiro, walk next to cute thatched houses in Santana, have lunch at Quinta do Furão and step back in time at Ponta de São Lourenço.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, fr, nl 

Madeira South Coast Cruise on Living Sea with Lunch
Excursions & day trips

Madeira South Coast Cruise on Living Sea with Lunch

Madeira's southwest coast is the star of this all-inclusive cruise. After setting out from the port in Funchal, you'll head up the coast to Cais da Lapa for some swimming. The best part is that with a maximum of 52 guests on board, you'll have all the space and attentive service you need.

free cancellation
Available in:

es, en, fr, pt 

Pico do Arieiro Sunrise Tour with Local Breakfast
Activities

Pico do Arieiro Sunrise Tour with Local Breakfast

Seeing sunrise from the top of one of Madeira's highest peaks will have you reaching for your camera over and over again. And this exclusive morning trip to Pico do Arieiro promises just that – views over Madeira during the mystical first light of the day, followed by a warming breakfast.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, pt 

Madeira Dramatic West Coast Tour with Lunch in Porto Moniz
Excursions & day trips

Madeira Dramatic West Coast Tour with Lunch in Porto Moniz

Madeira's magnificent scenery takes centre stage on this full day tour. You'll visit a selection of highlights including picturesque Ribeira Brava Village, Porto Moniz, Paúl da Serra and Encumeada Pass. Mariana, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘You'll get to know the true drama of Madeira's landscapes. You might be lucky enough to see the ocean both to the north and the south from Encumeada Pass, but the highest points on the island do sometimes catch the clouds.'Your first destination will be the cute Ribeira Brava Village, with its appealing, seafront promenade behind the beach. The views along the valley towards the island's interior give a hint of the impressive landscapes you'll explore when you head inland. Mariana adds, ‘You'll see as you travel around that no patch of fertile land is wasted in Madeira – even the steep hillsides around Ribiera Brava are terraced to cultivate crops.' Then, it's time for a stroll through a banana plantation in Madalena do Mar.Next, we'll head up the 1,500m-high Paúl da Serra plateau before descending on Porto Moniz, famous for its natural lava rock swimming pools. A typical lunch freshly prepared with local produce awaits in the village. Then, crossing north to south, we'll venture over the Encumeada Pass for some knockout views across the island. Rounding off the day is a poncha drink demonstration and tasting in Câmara de Lobos – a favourite holiday spot of Winston Churchill. Mariana says, ‘Be careful – poncha is so fruity and refreshing, but it hides a serious brandy kick.'

free cancellation
Available in:

en, fr, nl 

Madeira 4x4 Tour and Wine Tasting Experience
Activities

Madeira 4x4 Tour and Wine Tasting Experience

Book here for an epic 4x4 tour combining Madeiran wine, nature and some thrilling off-roading. Visit Cabo Girão and São Vicente valley, plus a winery.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, pt 

Eastern Madeira Private Tour
Excursions & day trips

Eastern Madeira Private Tour

This exclusive private tour shines a light on the east of Madeira. You'll have your head in the clouds at Pico do Areeiro, walk next to cute thatched houses in Santana, have lunch at Quinta do Furão and step back in time at Ponta de São Lourenço.

free cancellation
Available in:

de, en 

Private Madeira Dramatic West Coast Tour with Lunch in Porto Moniz
Excursions & day trips

Private Madeira Dramatic West Coast Tour with Lunch in Porto Moniz

This private tour shines the spotlight on Madeira's magnificent inland areas and coastal scenery. Exclusively for you and your party, you'll visit highlights including Ribeira Brava village, Porto Moniz, Paúl da Serra and Encumeada Pass. Mariana, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘You'll get to know the true drama of Madeira's landscapes. You might be lucky enough to see the ocean both to the north and the south from Encumeada Pass, but the highest points on the island do sometimes catch the clouds.'Your first destination will be the cute Ribeira Brava Village, with its appealing, seafront promenade behind the beach. The views along the valley towards the island's interior give a hint of the impressive landscapes you'll explore when you head inland. Mariana adds, ‘You'll see as you travel around that no patch of fertile land is wasted in Madeira – even the steep hillsides around Ribiera Brava are terraced to cultivate crops.' Then, it's time for a stroll through a banana plantation in Madalena do Mar.Next, we'll head up the 1,500m-high Paúl da Serra plateau before descending to Porto Moniz, famous for its natural lava rock swimming pools. A typical lunch freshly prepared with local produce awaits in the village. Then, crossing north to south, we'll venture over the Encumeada Pass for some knockout views across the island. Rounding off the day is a poncha drink demonstration and tasting in Câmara de Lobos – a favourite holiday spot of Winston Churchill. Mariana says, ‘Be careful – poncha is so fruity and refreshing, but it hides a serious brandy kick.'

free cancellation
Available in:

de, en 

Madeira Private 4x4 Tour and Wine Tasting
Activities

Madeira Private 4x4 Tour and Wine Tasting

On this exclusive private tour, you'll combine Madeiran wine and nature with some thrilling off-road adventure. You'll journey along rugged mountain roads to Cabo Girão and the São Vicente valley, then stop for a wine tasting session at Quinta do Barbusano vineyard.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, pt 

Eastern Madeira Sustainable Tour in a 4x4 with Lunch
Activities

Eastern Madeira Sustainable Tour in a 4x4 with Lunch

Set off on a sustainable 4x4 tour that gives back to the local economy and helps keep Madeira green. Your action-packed day takes in gems like Pico do Areeiro, UNESCO-listed laurel forests and Funchal Ecological Park. What's more, you'll do it all with the help of a local expert. Rúben, one of our guides, says, ‘Wild and untamed nature is Madeira's most precious treasure. Make memories with an experience that the world will thank you for.'During the months of October to April, your first stop is at Funchal Ecological Park, where a sustainable activity will take place, contributing to the conservation of the endemic flora of the Island and the eradication of invasive species. From May to September a visit to a historic water mill or an organic farm will be on offer instead. Next, we'll visit the towering Pico do Areeiro. One of the highest peaks on the island, it boasts wow-factor panoramas over the Atlantic Ocean.Heading off-road towards the north, you'll zigzag through an ancient laurel forest – a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999 – on scenic trails towards the mountain town of Santana to see its steep-roofed, straw-thatched homes. After a well-deserved lunch break in a typical local restaurant, we'll round off with a pit stop at a nearby viewpoint, offering knockout coastal panoramas all the way to Madeira's easternmost point, the São Lourenço peninsula.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, pt 

Northwest Madeira 4x4 Tour with Laurisilva Forest and Lunch
Excursions & day trips

Northwest Madeira 4x4 Tour with Laurisilva Forest and Lunch

Taking in coastal gems, wild forests and sustainable producers, this 4x4 tour showcases Madeira's adventurous side. You'll experience the drama of Madeira's scenery from up close and get an insight into the island's culture, too. Ruben, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Get ready to learn the secrets of mixing poncha, the much-loved island tipple made with sugar cane rum, fresh juice and local honey. Be careful, though – poncha's fruity, refreshing taste hides a serious kick.'Starting off in Ponta do Sol, you'll get great views of the south coast from Paul da Serra, 1400m above sea level. Then it's on to Fanal, where some of the oldest Laurel trees on the island grow. Ruben says, ‘Madeira's laurel forests are the largest surviving area of primary laurisilva woods anywhere. Some of the trees are thought to be around 800 years old, and the ecosystem is largely intact. These forests host around 100 endemic species, and they are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.'Rumble past typical ‘poios' terraced farmland en route to Seixal beach for a swim. After this, we'll head to Chão da Ribeira to savour a tasty local lunch. Chef Sérgio will show you how to make the classic grilled beef skewer, known in Portuguese as ‘espetada', while you enjoy a glass of Madeira Wine as an apéritif. There's also a vegan burger option. To wrap up your tour, we'll visit São Vicente to meet an organic honey producer. Here, you'll learn all about honey production, and you'll try your hand at making Madeira's traditional drink, poncha.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

VIP Madeira Catamaran Cruise on Luna
Excursions & day trips

VIP Madeira Catamaran Cruise on Luna

As soon as you step aboard the Sailing Catamaran Luna, you'll get the VIP treatment. The best part is that with a maximum of 18 guests on board, you'll have all the space and attentive service you need to enjoy your time at sea. Rodrigo, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘You pass by Cabo Girão, the second-highest sea cliffs in the world. The viewpoint at the top is often really busy, so you can enjoy seeing the cape from an alternative – and much calmer – perspective.'Madeira's southwest coast is the star of this laidback cruise, and after setting out from Funchal port, you'll head up the less-explored coast to take in the views. Settle in on deck with a cold drink in hand, and feel the Atlantic breeze in your hair. You'll glide along the intensely green coastline – soon coming upon Cabo Girão, which towers out of the sea at a height of 580 metres. You'll get to look for marine life in the clear waters at the foot of the cliffs, while the crew are on hand with drinks and snacks.Rodrigo adds, ‘While you admire Madeira's rugged coastal scenery from the sleek deck of the catamaran, you'll be glad to realise how stable and comfortable this vessel is, which allows you to fully enjoy the experience without any worries.' Make the most of the VIP on-board experience with your group before sailing back down the coastline back to base.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

What to do in Madeira

A volcanic island nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is an extraordinary destination. With its rugged peaks, dense forests, and eye-catching views, this island is the ideal spot for those seeking an active and outdoorsy vacation. Funchal is Madeira's bustling capital, boasting a vibrant cultural and cosmopolitan scene with a captivating history, complementing the other parts of the island that offer strikingly dramatic natural landscapes. From hiking in the Levadas, to catamaran cruises, and mountain adventures, Madeira has a lot to offer.

The 6 best excursions and activities in Madeira:

  1. Explore Funchal

    Funchal is a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. Take a stroll through the colorful Mercado dos Lavradores, featuring local produce and exotic fruit. Then, wander the cobblestone streets of the old town. Visit Blandy's Wine Lodge to taste Madeira's famous fortified wine or enjoy striking panoramic views of the city and ocean by taking a cable car up to Monte, one of the city's most unique areas.

  2. Visit Porto Moniz

    Perched on the edge of the northwestern tip of Madeira, Porto Moniz is an eye-catching town famous for its natural volcanic pools. Filled with crystal-clear waters fed by the ocean, taking a dip in these pools is a must on your vacation. After a refreshing swim, relax in the sun or take a walk along the coast. The area is also known for its good and moderately priced fish restaurants.

  3. Climb Pico do Arieiro

    For those who love hiking in the mountains, Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira's three highest peaks at 1,818 meters high, is a must. The mountain offers several impressive viewpoints, easily accessible. If you're in good shape, you can even hike up the path leading to Pico Ruivo, the island's highest peak.

  4. Walk through the Laurisilva Forest

    Step back in time and explore Madeira's Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the Cenozoic Era. Disappeared in much of the Mediterranean, Madeira's Laurisilva is the largest forest of its kind still in existence today. Here, you can appreciate a diverse array of plant and animal life, including many species exclusive to the island. To explore this biodiversity, there are numerous trails to follow, and if the day is foggy, the experience becomes even more enigmatic.

  5. Go trekking in the Levadas

    The Levadas, Madeira's irrigation canals, span around 3,000 km around the island, forming a network of hiking trails that can be walked almost entirely. These canals provide a great way to explore the island slowly, passing through green landscapes and impressive cliffs. One of the most popular trails is the Levada das 25 Fontes, a route that crosses 25 waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation.

  6. Join a catamaran cruise

    Finally, no trip to Madeira would be complete without a catamaran cruise. Set sail around the island's rugged coastline and admire its jagged cliffs from a different perspective. Keep your eyes out for dolphins and even whales. On some cruises, you'll also have the chance to take a swimming break, where you can get a refreshing dip or snorkel in the ocean waters.

Get ready to visit Madeira

What's the best time to go to Madeira?

Madeira's climate is mild year-round, never too hot and never too cold. However, from October to April the season is quite rainy. That's why the best time to visit the island is during the summer months, from May to September. If you plan to embrace the island's beach life vibes, then July and August are the optimal months, when the sea's temperature is at its best.

How long does it take to visit Madeira?

There's a plethora of things to see and do in Madeira, especially for those who love nature and the outdoors. That's why we suggest staying in Madeira for a minimum of four days. This will provide you with the time to partake in the island's renowned excursions and explore the captivating capital, Funchal. If you have a week at your disposal, you can easily alternate between more active days and others entirely devoted to relaxation.

What are Madeira's best beaches?

From man-made beaches to rocky coves, Madeira offers a diverse selection catering to all preferences. Among them, the artificial beach of Calheta stands out as one of the most popular—sandy, well-equipped, and ideal for families. Prainha is distinguished by its black sand and lively sea, reminiscent of the beloved Porto da Cruz beach, naturally sculpted by the process of erosion. Lastly, Praia Formosa, just a short distance from Funchal, serves as a beach complex designed to appeal to a variety of tastes, featuring sandy shores and basalt pebbles.