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MBtours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Madeira tours

Discovering the secrets of nature.

THE 10 BEST Funchal Tours & Excursions

Funchal tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
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1. VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching

2. Madeira Food, Wine & Cultural Tour

3. Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran

4. Madeira Best of the West Day Tour

5. Jeep Tour, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pool, Fanal Forest and Cabo Girao

6. Full-Day Madeira North West Coast Safari from Funchal

7. Madeira Peaks - Mountain Walk

8. Around The Island - Two Days Tour From 9am To 5pm (Each Day)

9. Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira

10. Guided Tour Electric Mountain Bike Experience

11. Madeira : West and East Mega Tour in 1 Day with Drinks and Snacks

12. Seaborn Catamaran trips

13. Porto Moniz - Enchanted Terraces: Open 4x4 Full Day Tour

14. Private Madeira Island Tour Full Day

15. Sunrise Self-Guided Hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo

16. Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise from Funchal

17. Madeira East Tour from Funchal

18. Small Group West Tour Waterfalls & Fanal Forest Tour

19. 4-Hour Private Outdoor Tour in Madeira

20. Full-Day Jeep 4x4: Amazing West Full-Day Tour to Natural Pools

21. Half Day Tour on a Luxury Catamaran on Madeira Island

22. 4x4 Jeep Tour to East & Northeast of Madeira

23. Skywalk 4x4 Experience and Rabacal 25 Fountains Levada Walk

24. Madeira Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour

25. East of Madeira | Full Day 4x4 Tour

26. Funchal Hop-On Hop-Off Tour 3 in 1

27. Madeira Grand Experience (price per tukxi - up to 3 people)

28. Sunrise Tour at Pico do Arieiro with coffee/tea and breakfast included

29. 3-Hour Madeira Scenic Island Tour (Price per Sidecar - 1 or 2 passengers)

30. Canyoning Madeira Island - Level One

What travelers are saying.

• Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran
• VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching
• Madeira Food, Wine & Cultural Tour
• Madeira Best of the West Day Tour
• Full-Day Madeira North West Coast Safari from Funchal
• Madeira taxi tours by Diogo
• Up Mountain Madeira
• Be Local Madeira
• Pearl of the Atlantic Madeira
• Hit the Road Tours
• Tukway Madeira
• Green Devil Safari
• Summer Anatomy
• Madeira Sidecar Tours
• Safari Madeira Island
• Madeira Wonder Hikes

23 Best Madeira Tours to book in 2024

LOOKING FOR THE BEST TOURS IN MADEIRA? 

You’re definitely in the right place, as this article outlines 23 of the best Madeira tours. If you didn’t already know, Madeira is an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 1,000 km (620 mi) from mainland Portugal.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

The best boat tour in Lagos is this half-Day Lagos Golden Coast Cruise with Lunch , with an almost perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊 ❤️

Madeira has some of the most stunning natural beauty you’ll ever see. The island is truly enchanting from the dramatic cliffs that jut out along the coast to the mystical forests and hidden lagoons. 

Why take a Madeira tour ? Well, most of what you see in Madeira is not in Funchal; it’s all around the island and can be hard to get to. So, if you don’t plan on driving around Madeira, booking one of these tours is the best way to see the island.

Top 3 Picks: Best Madeira Tours

Private Bespoke Grand Island Tour  

→ wide panoramic roof in the car → fully customizable tour

Madeira Food & Culture Tour

→ Visit seven different spots → Try local Madeiran food specialties

Private Tour to the West: Visit Fanal, Porto Moniz and Seixal

→ Private personalized tour → go off-the-beaten path

23 Best Madeira Tours

Experience the best of the island with these 23 top Madeira tours. Whether you’re navigating through scenic landscapes on Madeira jeep tours, sipping local flavors on Madeira winery tours, uncovering hidden gems with Madeira guided tours, trekking with Madeira hiking tours, or following the iconic waterways on Madeira Levada tours, adventure awaits.

1. Madeira Private Bespoke Grand Island Tour  

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-8 hours | 🌄 BOOK NOW

Create your own itinerary on this bespoke Madeira Grand Island Tour . You’ll be able to explore the immense diversity across the island, from secluded swimming spots to viewpoints atop volcanic mountains, as you’re guided around the old roads of the island.

We knew we were short on time and wanted to maximize our island experience and with Nuno as our guide, that’s exactly what we got!  — SYDNEY   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The entire day is customizable to your exact preferences. If you see a spot where you want to stop, ask. On this private tour, your guide will bring you in a luxury car with a panoramic roof through the roads less traveled.

You’ll avoid tunnels and crowds and go along the tops of mountains and down scenic coastal routes. On one of the best private Madeira tours , your guide will also teach you more about the island’s political and cultural history and agriculture.

BEST MADEIRA TOURS

2. madeira food & cultural tour  .

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | 🍽️ BOOK NOW

Enjoy the unique taste of Madeiran cuisine, a combination of typical Portuguese dishes and locally produced fruits and vegetables, on this Madeira food tour .

On this tour, you’ll visit a total of seven different locations across Funchal, eating, drinking, and learning. You’ll have the chance to sample fruits, vegetables, meats, chocolates, teas, and even local Madeira wine. 

Great experience, tasting delicious, local specialities from Madeira. The red wine was great and the Portuguese tarts were exquisite. — STEFAN   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

There are alternative options for non-drinkers and vegetarians . Your guide will tell you more about what you are eating, as well as historical facts and interesting stories about various spots you pass and about the island as a whole.

3. Private Tour to the West: Visit Fanal, Porto Moniz and Seixal  

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW

Spend a day touring the western side of Madeira with its beautiful, dramatic cliffs and charming villages on this private day tour to Fanal, Porto Moniz, and Seixal . 

This tour is fully customizable and can even be altered as your day progresses. You can visit banana plantations, visit spectacular viewpoints, or try some local Madeiran rum. No matter what you do, your guide will take you to hidden gems.

We just loved everything! The views, the trip, the time spent with Valdemar, he is a very kind, caring, highly knowledgeable person! 🙏 — ADAM   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The tour is done in an open-top 4X4 jeep, ensuring you can get to spots most cars won’t be able to reach, making it one of the best Madeira 4×4 tours to take while visiting the island.

4. Madeira Peaks: Explore the Island’s Best Viewpoints  

Take in the lush green peaks of the island from some of the highest viewpoints — Eagle’s Rock and Ribeiro Frion — on this Madeira Peaks 4X4 tour of the island’s southeast .

On a clear day, from the open-top 4×4 vehicle, you’ll see the twinkling blue of the sea below, or you may have cloud cover adding a layer of white to the hues of Madeira’s landscape. 

Very fun and worthwhile excursion. Madeira is stunning! — JAN   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

In addition to the peaks, this tour will bring you to a sugar cane factory in Porto da Cruz, plus to Santana village to see the distinct houses there with their extremely peaked roofs making a sort of triangle shape with fun colors and thatched tops.

5. Sunrise Tour at Pico do Arieiro

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | 🌄 BOOK NOW

Experience one of the most amazing sunrises you’ll ever see on this sunrise tour at Pico do Arieiro .

After a convenient hotel pick-up around 6:00 AM, you’ll journey towards Pico do Arieiro, ⛰️ Madeira’s highest viewpoint at 1818 meters . Around 8 AM, you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise, a spectacle made even more delightful with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

The experience continues with a buffet-style breakfast. Savor sandwiches, homemade cake, biscuits, water, orange juice, fruit jam, cheese, and ham—all included in the tour price.

Sunrise was incredible! Such an amazing experience. Stopped for brekfast after and a lovely stroll at the Levada.  — Jenna   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Afterward, you’ll return to the Camacha area for a scenic 40-minute adventure Madeira levada walk in the enchanting Paradise Valley.

🌨️ If the weather isn’t good, the location will change to the Skywalk Viewpoint of Guindaste in Santana, ensuring you can still enjoy a spectacular sunrise.

6. Private Sunset Boat Tour from Funchal

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | 🌄 BOOK NOW

Watch from the comfort of a private boat as Madeira’s coastline turns even more dramatic under the deep hues of a pink and purple sunset on this private boat tour from Funchal. 

On this evening cruise, you’ll pass by the lofty cliffs of Cape Girao and the orange-roofed houses of the small fishing village Camara De Lobos . You’ll also get another perspective on the tiers of Funchal City from what it looks like when you’re standing in it.

It was a beautiful calm evening a nd we had a great trip. The sunset was made to order and Paulo was a charming host. — JANET   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

This private sunset boat tour includes sparkling wine, snacks, and bottled water to make the evening more enjoyable. As you pass the different points of interest, your guide will tell you the history and fun stories about each spot.

🚽 You’ll also have access to an onboard restroom.

7. Monte Tropical Garden & Toboggan Ride by Tuk Tuk

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH : 3 hours | 🌄 BOOK NOW

Explore the lush, exotic Monte Tropical Garden by tuk tuk — the perfect way to explore the expansive 70,000 square meters (over 17 acres) of tropical plants. 

Visit the ducks in the lake, spot peacocks displaying their feathers, and wander the palace museum with its historical art and artifacts. 

The entire process from booking to the experience was incredible! — ANN   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

On one of the best Madeira island tours, you’ll also pay a visit to the city of Monte and the local church — a 15th century chapel where, each August, a massive celebration takes place for the Assumption of Mary.

Finally, toboggan back down the hill—a form of transportation used by locals continuously since the 1850s.

8. Genuíne Food Experience at Re-Canto

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🍽️ BOOK NOW

Enjoy a locally sourced and homemade meal overlooking some of the best views in Madeira — out across the city and the sea.

You’ll start your experience with a welcome drink before getting a tour of the property, some explanation of the food they grow, and you’ll get involved in harvesting some of the ingredients for your dinner.

We loved every second at Andre’s table! It was by far the best meal we had in Madeira. — Stephanie   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

While this is not a cooking class, you will be involved in preparing your 3-course meal. Espetada — a local meat dish, is the typical star of the show, but vegetarian options are available, and all meals are catered to individual preferences.

You might be served some seafood, and you’ll also get starters of bread or salads, a dessert, and of course a digestif.

9. From Calheta: Whale Watching Excursion in a Traditional Vessel

⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

Head out to sea on a traditional Madeiran fishing boat — made from wood and restored to the smallest details — on this whale watching experience from Calheta . 

Sitting in the middle of the Atlantic, Madeira is the perfect place to spot whales, dolphins, and other sea animals. The island creates a safe spot for them to rest as they travel, so you will likely spot at least one species. This tour specifically offers an 86% success rate.

We were able to see dolphins and pilot whales and that was just amazing to see. Madeira viewed from the sea is so beautiful. — Stephanie   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

In addition to whales and dolphins, you may see seals or several different bird species. All of the animals are known to your guide and captain, who will explain any animals you see. 

You’ll depart from Calheta, and you’ll most likely be the only boat on the water, making this experience one of the best whale watching tours Madeira offers. 

10. Porto Moniz: Diving with Sharks and Rays in Madeira Aquarium

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🤿 BOOK NOW

You know when you visit an aquarium, and there are people in the tanks with the sharks? This Poto Moniz diving experience allows you to be one of those people. You’ll get to go scuba diving in the main tank of the Madeira Aquarium. 

It was just an incredible experience! We were instructed very well and the guide ensured a relaxed atmosphere with his relaxed and humorous manner. We felt super cared for. — VERONIKA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

This is the perfect chance for you to swim alongside less common species in the open ocean: rays, sharks, mantas, and more. Before you get into the large tank, you’ll be fully equipped with safety gear, get a briefing from staff, and do a practice run in the pool. 

After your dive, you’ll also enjoy a guided aquarium tour.  This experience is hands-down one of the best tours Madeira has to offer for a unique and monumental experience.

11. Madeira North Coast and Vulcanic Pools

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | 🛺 BOOK NOW

Combine adventure, history, and food for an epic, all-encompassing full day out to some of the most spectacular spots in Madeira. 

Start the day at 1,000 meters (more than 3,000 feet) above sea level at the top of the lush expanse of the Ribeira Brava Valley. 

Thank you for the trip, and adapting it to the situation. Views over the small towns were spectacular. — TIMO   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Continue along the north coast of Madeira, with sea views all along the way. Stops include Véu da Noiva waterfall, the black sand beach in the small village of Seixal, and the fishing village of Porto Moniz, where you can swim in volcanic pools. 

You’ll also have a chance to visit the ethereal Posto Florestal Fanal forest , a UNESCO World Heritage site with laurel trees as old as 600 years . And finally, Ponto Do Sol beach and the heart-racing Cabo girão skywalk before the tour ends.

For one of the ultimate Madeira vacation packages, this Madeira North Coast Tour is the perfect option.

12. Madeira East Tour: Visit Pico Areiro, Santana, and Machico 

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW

From some of the highest viewpoints all the way down to golden beaches, this tour of Madeira East is a great way to see many of the natural landscapes of this magical island. 

You’ll go up Pico de Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters , or nearly 6,000 feet above sea level. You can wander the Laurissilva Forest, which has centuries-old trees, and you’ll visit Machico, with its rainbow-colored landscape of the sand into the sea.

Really good guide, stops had just the right amount of time, lots to see in one day. Price very reasonable. — CRAIG   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

During the day, you’ll stop for lunch in the village of Santana, where you can visit the typical houses shaped like little triangles with their steeply peaked, thatched roofs.

13. Funchal Food & Wine Walking Tour

Madeira has a unique food and wine scene, which you can explore on this walking tour of the gastronomic history and present-day wonders of the island.  

In total, you’ll make nine stops throughout your tour. Samples of chocolates, cookies, wine, and local specialties from restaurants and markets across Funchal will be available. 

At each stop, your guide will tell you what you’re sampling and fun historical facts about the food and the island. 

14. Canyoning in Madeira

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | 🧗 BOOK NOW

Ready for a unique type of adventure? This canyoning experience brings you through the acres of nature in the Funchal Ecological Park, allowing you to explore its diverse flora and fauna.

It was so fun and the guides enjoyed dropping us into the water and splashing us along the way . — HEATHER   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll do a total of four abseils , with the highest one being 15 meters or about 50 feet. You’ll also do a few small jumps as you make your way through the cliffs and pools. 

⭐️ This activity suits all levels, including those who have never gone canyoning.

15. West and East Mega Tour with Drinks and Snacks

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9-10 hours |   ⛰️ BOOK NOW

If you are looking for a tour that covers the best of Madeira Portugal, this is one of the best Madeira sightseeing tours to book .

You’ll explore the island’s rugged cliffs and terraced vineyards, go through its forests, and up to the mountain peaks, affording breathtaking views. All of this is packed into one of these best Madeira day tours. 

Wow we loved this tour! Our driver and guide Nuno was so great, full of knowledge, very funny and knew the island so well. — ELEANOR   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

From the Christ statue just outside of Funchal, where you’ll start your day with stunning views of the bay and a visit to the chapel, all the way to Ponta do Pargo lighthouse at the westernmost tip of Madeira, you will see a lot during this all day Madeira tour. 

The day includes a visit to the ruins of a sugar cane factory, the famous Miradouro do Guindaste skywalk viewpoint, a swim in the natural pools of Porto Moniz, a visit to the fishing village of Paul do Mar, and more.

16. Immersive Surf Lesson

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🏄 BOOK NOW

If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at surfing, Madeira is an excellent place to give it a go — so why not sign up for a surf lesson?

There are a variety of surf breaks around the island suited to different skill levels, but they also change day to day depending on the strong Atlantic tides.

Great experience! Fantastic location of the school. Our son had absolutely amazing time and enjoyed his lesson. — ALEX (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

This half-day lesson will bring you to the best location for your date and skill level — total beginners to more advanced surfers are welcome.

You’ll start the day with a theoretical lesson and some warmups before getting out into the water with your certified coach. You’ll spend about 90 minutes to two hours catching waves. Surfboards and wetsuits are provided. 

17. Private Buggy Off-Road Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 🏞️ BOOK NOW

Go off-road to explore the wild side of Madeira on these Madeira private tours by buggy. You’ll be surrounded by the diverse flora and fauna of the island as you make your way around the eastern end by buggy.

This is an amazing experience to have in the forests near Funchal – a lot of fun and Roberto is very attentive and knowledgeable. — Cristina (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Starting in Funchal, head up to take in the breathtaking vistas of the coastline from the Pico Alto viewpoint. From there, visit Pico do Suna for views of Pico Ruiva — the tallest mountain on the island, and visit the beautiful clear waters of Lamaceiros lagoon, nestled within lush forests.

Through the forests, from peak to peak, your guide will be with you throughout the day as you drive your buggy around Madeira on one of the best Madeira island tours.

18. Cooking Experience & Market Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | 🍽️ BOOK NOW

This cooking experience & market tour starts you off by exploring a market and all of the unusual foods for sale there — from tropical fruits to fish you’ll only find in Madeira.

Throughout the day, you’ll get a taste of Madeira through its food and the history surrounding different dishes.  You’ll make dishes like ceviche, espada, guacamole, and special Madeiran desserts, all making up a big lunch accompanied by Madeira wine.

Fantastic experience. The food, the chefs, the company were also 5 star. One of the highlights of our holiday. — Cristina (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll then sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor on one of the Madeira best tours for foodies . This will be enjoyed on a spectacular rooftop where you’ll cook and eat your meal.

19. Rabaçal, Risco & 25 Fontes Levada Walk

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-7 hours | 🚶 BOOK NOW

Head into the heart of Madeira’s lush forests on this Levada walk tour . On it, you’ll discover stunning waterfalls and a tranquil lagoon crafted by 25 active springs, all of them within a thick wall of living vines.

This trip was well-organised, with a knowledgeable, friendly guide. — LEE (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

This is one of Madeira’s most popular hikes and is suitable for most people of reasonable fitness with only some short incline areas.

Transportation to and from the starting point of the hike is included on these Madeira day tours.

20. East Madeira Guided Tour with Balcões Levada Walk

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-7 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW

Explore Madeira’s diverse range of attractions — from sampling rum at the North Mills Distillery to admiring unique architecture typical to the Santana village, on this guided tour of East Madeira .

This Madeira day tour will also bring you along one of the Levada walks — levadas are small channels that water runs through, and the steps next to them lead through amazing stretches of forest and out to viewpoints. 

Absolutely one of the best excursions we have been on. I can not recommend this enough. — ERIN (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll stop for lunch in Santana, known for its houses with steep thatched roofs. Finish the day off admiring the scraggly, rocky coastline of the island from the viewpoint at Ponta do Rosto.

21. Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike

⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW

This guided walking tour of Madeira’s highest peak — Pico Ruivo,  is not for the faint of heart. Views from this tippy top of the island are unparalleled. You’ll look out across all the other peaks spread across the island. 

Pico Ruivo is 1,862 meters high, or just over 6,100 feet, and while anyone with reasonable fitness levels shouldn’t have an issue hiking up, the trek can sometimes prove difficult, even for those who regularly hike. 

Amazing views. The route is worth the effort to overcome the steep climbs, but in return you can admire these wonderful landscapes. — ALAN (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Once you reach the summit and make your way down, your guide will lead you to another amazing viewpoint for a drink at a cafe before dropping you back in Funchal.

If you are looking for a Pico to Pico hike, this is hands down one of the best guided walking tours Madeira has to offer for this specific activity.

22. Half-Day Wine Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

Combine the stunning sights of some of Madeira’s top natural attractions with a sampling of some of the best Madeira wine on this Madeira wine tour.

Start the day by going through Encumeada Pass and admiring the otherworldly views. You’ll be able to see the sparkling sea through the lush green volcanic mountains.

Very nice tour. Guide was great . You get to see the northern part of the island. Scenery was incredible. — DEBRA (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

From there, you’ll go through the ancient trees in the Laurissilva forest, which you can see through the open roof of the Land Rover. 

The day finishes at a winery where you can try Madeira wines and enjoy a tapas sampling—looking for one of the best wine tours Madeira offers? This is one of them.

23. Nuns Valley Half-Day Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW

Embark on this Madeira: Nuns Valley Half-Day Tour to discover the breathtaking beauty of Curral das Freiras, or Nuns Valley, nestled in the heart of Madeira.

This scenic journey begins in Funchal, where you’ll board a minibus that whisks you away to the viewpoint of Eira do Serrado. The tour then descends into the heart of Nuns Valley, a charming village cradled by steep, towering mountains.

I had the best time on this trip. Learned very interesting facts and stories. — JENNIFER (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

As the tour winds down, you’ll visit the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, famously captured in the paintings of Winston Churchill. Here, you’ll taste poncha, an alcoholic spirit.

The tour concludes with a pleasant drive back to Funchal, leaving you with memories of Madeira’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry.

Should I Take a Tour Of Madeira East or West?

Choosing between a tour of Madeira’s East or West depends on your interests. The East offers dramatic landscapes and cultural experiences, while the West is known for its stunning natural scenery.

Exploring the East of Madeira offers a delightful blend of experiences, combining the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Funchal with the natural beauty and traditional charm of places like Santana and Garajau.

🤿 The Garajau Partial Nature Reserve is a protected marine reserve and a haven for diverse marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts.

Key attractions in the West include the Cabo Girão skywalk , offering spectacular views from one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, and the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, famously painted by Winston Churchill.

The West also boasts beautiful natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz and the scenic drive through the Laurisilva forest , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t forget about the black sands in Seixal.

Both sides provide unique experiences, with the East focusing more on cultural and historical aspects, while the West offers more in terms of natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Which part of Madeira is most beautiful?

The beauty of Madeira is a matter of personal taste, but the Eastern region often stands out for its captivating natural attractions. This part of the island combines a unique charm with stunning landscapes, making it a favorite for many visitors.

The sunny Calheta enchants with its golden sandy beaches and marina, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and water sports. The Laurisilva forest offers lush, green landscapes and a haven for hikers and nature lovers.

Then there is Porto Moniz , renowned for its natural lava pools, a unique and mesmerizing natural wonder formed by volcanic activity. You’ll also find levadas or irrigation channels providing scenic walking paths.

In my opinion, the best side is the West side, but not everyone would agree.

Do you need a car in Madeira?

Yes — Madeira is doable without a car, especially if you book a Madeira day trip departing from Funchal to get you to any of the more off-the-beaten-trail places. 

There are also public buses that can get you to various points around the island, but it can be much harder to get to specific spots with public transportation.

You need to either rent a car or take a tour to explore Madeira’s most stunning sites.

Is driving difficult in Madeira?

Yes and No  — driving in Madeira can vary depending on your driving experience and comfort with specific conditions.

Driving in Madeira might be tough if you’re a bit nervous behind the wheel. The roads are curvy and really steep, and most cars have manual gears, which can be tricky on hills.

Also, many tourists drive around, so accidents can (and do) happen. Parking can be a real headache because so many cars are everywhere.

Best Madeira Tours: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tours in madeira.

The best tours in Madeira cater to diverse interests, from scenic Levada walks and exhilarating dolphin and whale watching to the unique cable car and toboggan rides in Funchal.

Wine enthusiasts can delve into the world of Madeira wine through tasting tours, while adventure seekers might opt for a Jeep safari or mountain biking.

Cultural explorations in Funchal, snorkeling adventures, and day trips to the serene Porto Santo also offer memorable experiences on this captivating island.

What are the best tours to do in Madeira with kids?

The best tours in Madeira for kids are interactive and engaging, like dolphin and whale watching boat trips, where they can see marine life up close, and fun cable car rides offering panoramic island views.

For a more adventurous experience, families can explore the safe Levada walks, which offer stunning natural scenery.

Some of the best Madeira tours with kids include this dolphin-watching tour , this bespoke private tour , this jeep 4X4 tour , and this West and East Mega Tour with Drinks and Snacks

What tours in Madeira are good for avoiding crowds?

Tours in Madeira that are excellent for avoiding crowds include private Levada walks through lesser-known paths, early morning or late evening tours to popular spots like Pico do Arieiro, and boat trips to secluded coastal areas.

Opting for guided tours in off-the-beaten-path locations or the rustic north coast can also provide a more solitary experience. Personalized tours to small-scale wineries or through the tranquil countryside ensure a peaceful exploration away from the tourist throngs.

Final Thoughts: Madeira Tours

There is undoubtedly a lot to see in Madeira, from spectacular sunsets at sea to wildlife and amazing ancient trees. From expansive viewpoints to black sandy beaches. 

The best way to ensure you experience every delight, including Madeira food tours, thrilling Madeira bike tours, serene Madeira boat tours, and comprehensive tours on Madeira, is by joining one led by the island’s passionate Madeira tour companies, specifically one of the many Madeira tours by locals. Don’t miss a chance to embark on a memorable catamaran trip as well.

My name is Caitlin. I am from Vermont, USA. I have lived in Setúbal, Portugal since 2021. I work as a writer and editor as well as a teacher. Outside of work I love horseback riding, hiking, and exploring new places around the globe. I write about my travels at The Country Jumper.

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MBtravel Travel Agency

Carnival festivities.

Madeira Carnival offers a variety of activities you can choose from, with the option to enjoy them as a simple spectator or as an active participant.

Flower Festival

The Flower Festival is one of the many festivities that occurs on wood and which attracts thousands of tourists every year, being one of the main tourist attractions the island has to offer.

Atlantic Festival

The Atlantic Festival, an event that sets the beginning of the summer season in Madeira, is one of the most recent tourist entertainment events, held for the first time in June 2002.

Wine Festival

The Wine Festival is one of Madeira’s tourist attractions that pays tribute to this precious nectar and its undeniable socioeconomic significance.

Christmas and New Year

The arrival of the decorative lights in the streets of the city centre of Funchal, during the month of December, sets the beginning of the Christmas and New Year Festivities programme.

Columbus Festival

The Columbus Festival is based on the historical re-enactment of the time when this famous merchant lived in Porto Santo Island, recalling his stay in the Madeira Islands.

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Agence de Voyage MBtours

Fêtes du carnaval.

Le Carnaval de Madère vous offre un large choix d´activités, avec la possibilité d´être spectateur ou participant actif.

Fête de la Fleur

À Madère, des espèces florales provenant de nombreuses régions du monde poussent, car l’île possède des conditions climatiques spécifiques qui sont propices au fleurissement des fleurs tant des régions tropicales que des régions froides.

Festival de l’Atlantique

Le Festival de l’Atlantique est un évènement qui marque le début de l´été à Madère et il s´agit de l´un des évènements d’animation touristique les plus récents, qui s´est déroulé pour la première fois au mois de juin 2002.

Fête du Vin Madère

La Fête du Vin est l’une des affiches touristiques de Madère qui rend hommage au précieux nectar et à son indiscutable importance socio-économique.

Fêtes de Noël et Fin d’Année

Le programme des Fêtes de Noël et Fin d´Année commence au mois de décembre avec l´ouverture officielle des Illuminations de Noël  dans les rues du centre-ville de Funchal.

Festival de Colomb

Le Festival Colombo est basé sur la reconstitution historique de l’époque à laquelle le fameux marchand a vécu sur l’île de Porto Santo et nous rappelle sa vie dans l´Archipel de Madère.

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