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.
Similar Posts
30 Best Madeira Food & Drink Dishes To Try in 2024
To explore some of the best Madeira food & drinks? This article outlines the 30 must try Madeira dishes
40+ Best Things to do in Madeira: An Ultimate Guide
Looking for the best things to do in Madeira? Find top sights, activities, dining, and more in this ultimate guide. Your Madeira adventure starts here.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
If You Love the Website, I’d Love the Support ❤️
There’s no paywall here. Consider Donating To My Coffee Fund and help me keep delivering amazing Portuguese-related content to you.
About Portugal
Lisbon Porto The Algarve Central Portugal Moving to Portugal Living in Portugal Ultimate Guides
About Us Contact Us Travel Planning (Coming Soon)
© 2023 Now in Portugal | Privacy Policy | Disclosure Policy | Terms & Conditions
Deals of the Week Mad for the Med Up to 50% OFF
Madeira Tours & Trips
Find the right tour package for you through Madeira. We've got 43 trips going to Madeira, starting from just 5 days in length, and the longest tour is 21 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the most tour departures.
43 Madeira tour packages with 1,231 reviews
- Hiking & Trekking
- Coastal Walks
Around Madeira
Very well organized. The instructions were clear and our driver helped us a lot with finding places to see and things to do.
- Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.
- Mountain Hikes
Walking in Madeira
Our guide was the best we have had. He quickly rearranged the route for one walk when the planned path was closed on our arrival, and organised great restaurants for us most evenings, enhancing the integration of everyone for our trip.
- 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
- Coach / Bus
Portugal in Depth with Madeira
- In-depth Cultural
Madeira Island Discovery
Walking the Island of Madeira
Beautiful island, interesting walking and good meals. Great company and caring guiding.
- Christmas & New Year
Hiking in Madeira
Hiking in Madeira was a really nice experience. Madeira is a beautiful island. Climbing Pico Ruivo and Pico Areioro in one day was a challenge, but that's what made it memorable. We loved out G-Adventures guide Dinarte.
The Eternal Pearl of the Atlantic: Best of Madeira in 5 Days
Discover Madeira, Self-drive
- Self Guided Walking Holidays
Marvels of Madeira Walk
i guess Tourradar acts a travel agent for many operators. This does lead to a slight disjointing of the booking experience, but they did pick some good tours to promote. As to the trip itself, put together by local Madeira tour operator MB Travel, and tied together by Headwater Travel UK. 'Marvels of Madeira' gave a good cross section of the walking routes on the Island. Pick ups and taxis were all smoothly present when needed. The Hotel stays were well chosen to give a great, peaceful and comfortable stays, if rather grander than needed. Being set on Half board meant no worries about extra spends - only the bar bill to surmount. As this was a self guided tour, the initial briefing was important and well conducted. My only niggles were the ancillary services. Tourradars travel insurance deals were not flexible enough to take on a peronally arranged extension to my stay, and the flight agency (Kiwi.com) had a hefty booking mark up. Otherwise, a great Walking holiday. Philip
Madeira Island by Bike
Excellent tour, absolutely stunning island. We were booked into some really nice properties. Focus bikes were in great shape and GPS navigation was spot on. If you are scared of relatively steep descents on the road, this may not be the tour for you.
Madeira Island Walking
First I must tell you that we have home where we do Bed and Breakfast so we are in the tourist industry. Our properties are rated 9.6 and 9.8 respectively on booking.com. We were in the catering business before that for 20 years. We do know what we are talking about as far as accommodation and food are concerned. One of the hikes was really too hard for us normal hikers. The written guides warned of "if y you are afraid of heights" but Eduardo really didn't indicate just how hard the hike was nor how tremendously afraid one could become walking on a ledge 1600m up. Fortunately it was cloudy and I could not see down. The accommodation most of the time was more than acceptable but the bathrooms often needed some bleach around the shower and floors. We are very sensitive about mold in the caulking and elsewhere in the bathroom. However, the food was ghastly and virtually unedible by the time we arrived in Encumeada. We didn't complain because 1) that ruins our holiday even more and 2) that is what they serve on a buffet and that is how they do it. I don't know why no one complained...besides that being hungry before and after a hike, you just eat it anyway. There was no option besides finding somewhere else to eat, which we did when there was another restaurant near that looked more acceptable. We were constantly told " oh the food is great there, so that is why we ate at the hotels even when the meal was not included. That was at the hotel Hotel O’Colmo - Santana. We did complain about the food and asked to be refunded. No I did not like their lamb, it was tasteless. The breakfast was very bad so that even the coffee was horrible. The other hotels had very nice coffee. We needed a good breakfast for hiking and were hungry for dinner after hiking all day. The engulf hotel was very nice but the food was made to far in advance and of poor quality. We thought that was bad but it just got worse. We were also very tired to go somewhere else to eat after hiking and going to dinner then to see the dinner was not acceptable to us. There was always good bread butter and fruit (except in Santana) but the quality overall was really very cheap processed, cooked too far in advance, especially at Hotel Encumeada – Santo Antonio da Serra. It was definitely cooked the day before and reheated. We did complain to the management at that hotel, not just about the towels which had holes in them. I didn’t think to take pictures of the worn out blankets, molded caulking in the showers and floors, processed and overcooked food. I will never do a tour again where meals are included. For the price of the tour, I do not feel we received what we paid for. 200£ a day should have given us better than average quality. If I took another tour, I would not be getting the meals included!
Taste of Portugal with Madeira
Madeira Great Walks
- Self-Guided Cycling
- Sightseeing
Madeira Loop Tour 8/7
Madeira Round Trip with Charme: Floral World and Coastal Land
What people love about madeira tours.
Excellent guide keen on sharing is passion and knowledge about Madeira.
Madeira Tours starting in:
- Funchal (13)
- Madeira Island (5)
- Explorer (33)
- Fully Guided (24)
- Hiking & Trekking (24)
- Personalized (16)
- Intl. Flights Included (15)
- Private (15)
- Family (14)
- Self-Guided (13)
- In-depth Cultural (4)
- Small Group (14)
- 10 Day Tours (27)
- Spring 2024 (23)
- Summer 2024 (28)
- Fall / Autumn 2024 (32)
- Winter 2024 / 2025 (19)
- Spring 2025 (6)
- Summer 2025 (4)
- Fall / Autumn 2025 (4)
- Winter 2025 / 2026 (3)
- April 2024 (20)
- May 2024 (23)
- June 2024 (23)
- July 2024 (25)
- August 2024 (26)
- September 2024 (30)
- October 2024 (29)
- November 2024 (25)
- December 2024 (18)
- January 2025 (2)
- February 2025 (3)
- March 2025 (3)
- April 2025 (4)
- May 2025 (5)
- June 2025 (4)
- July 2025 (2)
- August 2025 (3)
- September 2025 (4)
- October 2025 (4)
- November 2025 (2)
Other Regions in Portugal
- Northern Portugal (62)
- Algarve (38)
- Azores Archipelago (37)
- Central Portugal (27)
- Alentejo (17)
Travel Styles
- Singles and Solo (31)
- For Couples (15)
- Seniors (14)
International Versions
- Deutsch: Madeira Rundreisen
- Français: Circuits en Madère
- Español: Circuitos por Madeira
- Nederlands: Madeira Rondreizen
Top Tours in Madeira, Portugal
Madeira tours.
- Sightseeing Tours
- Ports of Call Tours
- Wine Tours & Tastings
- Up to 1 hour
- 1 to 4 hours
- 4 hours to 1 day
- 5.0 of 5 bubbles
- 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- Likely to Sell Out
- Special Offers
- The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.
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. Madeira "Mystery Tour" Full-Day - Up to 6 Private 4x4 Jeep
6. Porto Moniz - Enchanted Terraces: Open 4x4 Full Day Tour
7. Madeira Peaks - Mountain Walk
8. Madeira : West and East Mega Tour in 1 Day with Drinks and Snacks
9. Half day jeep Wine tour and tasting, & sea cliff adventure
10. Jeep Tour, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pool, Fanal Forest and Cabo Girao
11. Full-Day Madeira North West Coast Safari from Funchal
12. Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira
13. Around The Island - Two Days Tour From 9am To 5pm (Each Day)
14. Madeira Island Private Wine Full-day Tour in all terrain vehicle
15. West Side Private Full Day Madeira Tour
16. 3-Hour Madeira Scenic Island Tour (Price per Sidecar - 1 or 2 passengers)
17. Private Madeira Island Tour Full Day
18. Seaborn Catamaran trips
19. Visiting local Vineyard With Wine Tasting & Lunch included
20. Madeira East Tour from Funchal
21. Wine Flavours & tasting, Skywalk and 4x4 Jeep Adventures
22. Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise from Funchal
23. Madeira Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour
24. Small Group West Tour Waterfalls & Fanal Forest Tour
25. Madeira Genuíne Food Experience at Re-Canto
26. Sunrise Self-Guided Hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
27. Full-Day Jeep 4x4: Amazing West Full-Day Tour to Natural Pools
28. Skywalk 4x4 Experience and Rabacal 25 Fountains Levada Walk
29. Morning Transfer To Pico Do Arieiro, Hike To Pico Ruivo & Return From Teixeira
30. Funchal Hop-On Hop-Off Tour 3 in 1
What travellers 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
- Epic Madeira
- Harmony in Nature
- True Spirit
- Up Mountain Madeira
- Pearl of the Atlantic Madeira
- Hit the Road Tours
+351 291 626 268
+351 934 133 822, [email protected].
- Island Tours
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Madeira Island's landscapes, culture, and adventure on our immersive guided tours.
East of Madeira
West of Madeira
Nuns Valley
Monte & Botanical Garden
- Walks & Levadas
Explore Madeira's stunning natural beauty and unique waterways with our captivating levada walks and trail expeditions.
Rabaçal 25 Fontes
Caldeirão Verde
Referta Castelejo
Maroços Mimosas
- Outdoor Activities
Experience the exhilarating thrill of Madeira's boat trips and jeep safaris, exploring the island's diverse landscapes from sea to summit
CATAMARAN TRIPS
Jeep Safaris
NAU SANTA MARIA
Canyoning tours
Welcome to madeira sunrise tours.
Welcome to Madeira Sunrise Tours, your premier destination for unforgettable island tours in the heart of Madeira Island. Our wide range of offerings includes serene walks along the island’s unique Levadas, adventurous offroad safaris that traverse the rugged landscapes, exhilarating boat trips offering panoramic ocean views, and thrilling canyoning experiences in Madeira’s stunning gorges. We’re passionately committed to showcasing the diverse natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history that make Madeira a paradise for travelers. Whether you’re seeking to explore lush forests, visit traditional markets, or embark on a nautical adventure, our experienced guides are here to make your Madeira Island experience truly unforgettable. Unearth the hidden treasures of Madeira with Madeira Sunrise Tours, your passport to the ultimate island adventure.
Unveiling the radiant beauty of Madeira Island through immersive tours, walks, and thrilling adventures.
+351 919 912 716, axa insured: 008410116766 • government bonded operator: rnavt 3651, copyright © 2024 - all rights reserved.
WhatsApp us
Madeira Island Tours and Excursions
See the spectacular beauty of our wonderful Madeira Island the easy way with Lido Tours.
Who are we? Over the past 20 years, Lido Tours has been Madeira's leading Island Tour Operator .
We are a local company in business since 1996 and we are proud to be one of the oldest tour operators with a variety of tours , walks and every leisure activity in Madeira Island.
We have been making changes in our travel agency through the years adapting ourselves, in order to provide our costumers with the best choice of products.
Whilst staying in Madeira , try our variety of Tours and walks activities, ask us about our holiday destinations and all that we can offer for your next holiday. From the best hotels to the magical cruises around the world ask Lido Tours and we will make your holiday unforgettable.
Lido Tours is one of the few government bonded and licensed travel agents selling tours in Madeira , meaning that whilst with us, you are completely protected. With a 100% safety record and multi-lingual staff, including professional government approved Drivers and Guides; you are assured of our commitment to service, quality and safety.
We proudly invite you to discover our beautiful Madeira Island, Porto Santo and Desertas .
You will have a wonderful time with us!
Our tours We offer comfortable tours over the best scenic routes on the Island, from the blue ocean to mountain peaks, 7 days a week! For more details select a full day or half-day tour from the links on the left.
Our buses We operate a minibus or coach service for larger groups. All our buses are maintained to the highest standards, fitted with seat belts, comfortable interiors and always clean and fresh both on the inside and outside.
Our shops We are located in the main square in Funchal's Lido tourist zone within a few hundred metres of many of the most popular hotels. Our shops are easy to spot, being located by the Monumental Lido Hotel and Shopping Centre "Centro Comercial Monumental Lido" Nº 18 in front of the bus stop.
Our prices We offer the lowest prices and the best value Madeira Island tours . How do we do this? We own our Minibuses and we only sell direct to our clients through our own shop or online.
Lido Tours policy is safety first.
Our customers We welcome back many of our thousands of clients from over the years. Judging by the customer comments , recommendations and feedback we receive, we are confident that we provide a memorable experience. Clients recommend us to their friends coming to Madeira, excursions with Lido Tours are so easy to book, comfortable, informative and such good value… So, with your total satisfaction our goal we are sure that we have it right.
How to book Booking is simple, select your choice and either call us or visit our shops; our contact details are here . We accept cash and all the major credit cards.
Main Office - At Lido Area Estrada Monumental 284 Monumental Experience Shopping - Shops 18,19 9000-100 Funchal, Madeira +351 291 635 505
Funchal Office - At City Center Rua da Sé, 10 9000-066 Funchal, Madeira +351 291 616 699
+351 916 609 726
- Terms and Conditions
- Privacy Policy
- Skip to main content
- Skip to secondary menu
- Skip to footer
ZigZagonEarth
Plan unforgettable road trips!
18 best Madeira Tours (+ day trips) – to explore the island
Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )
Madeira is a small island, which is perfect for day trips or short excursions. Below is my selection of the best Madeira Tours:
- The classic day trips to the most beautiful places
- The best boat tours
- The best walking tours
- The best Funchal Tours
I wish you a wonderful trip!
Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Madeira:
My favorite platform to rent a car in Madeira: DiscoverCars
The unmissable boat tour: Catamaran tour to go whale watching
My favorite excursion from Funchal: 4×4 tour of East Madeira
MMy favorite places to stay in Funchal: Les Suites at the Cliff Bay (Luxury) – Sé Boutique Hotel (4 stars) – Market Place by Storytellers (apartments)
My favorite places to stay outside Funchal: Saccharum Resort near a beach (Luxury) – Estalagem da Ponta do Sol (4 stars) – Engho Velho Hotel (mid-range)
The best Madeira Tours – short answer
If you don’t want to read the entire article with my 18 suggestions, here are my choice for best tours, excursions and day trips to consider. This is my opinion. None of those tours asked to be listed.
- Day trip to explore the East of Madeira (including Pico do Arieiro) – See group tour details & availability
- Combining the impressive Valley of the Nuns and the charming coastal town of Camara de Lobos – See group tour details & availability
- Catamaran tour to go whale and dolphin watching plus swim under Cabo Girao – See group tour details & availability
- Go hiking on the volcanic peninsula of Ponta de Sao Louranço – See group tour details & availability
- Complete a Levada walk at the 25 Fontes – See group tour details & availability
- Explore Funchal on a guided walking tour, to learn about its history and admire its most beautiful buildings – See details & availability
- Go a a food tour to discover the local delicacies: wine, fish, chocolate… – See details & availability
With or without a car?
If you choose to visit Madeira without a car, it is preferable to stay in Funchal old center or in the Funchal Lido area.
- See best rated accommodations in Funchal
- For luxury resorts, check out the Lido area in Funchal
- More tips on my article about where to stay in Madeira
If you choose to do day trips around Madeira with a car,
- see my tips to rent a car and drive
- or go compare prices
- and check out my eBook that makes planning easier:
Plan your dream trip in Madeira thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 120+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 260+ original photos to help you choose
CLASSIC – 3 Best Madeira Excursions
The next 3 articles are covering some of the most famous locations in Madeira. For good reasons. These places are stunning and deserve a visit.
Valley of the Nuns views & Cliffs
- Eira do Serrado – admire Curral das Frieiras (Valley of the nuns) from higher grounds, a hidden valley with giant vertical mountains surrounding the “couldron”
- Visit the village of Curral das Frieiras – appreciate the perspective from the bottom of the valley and taste the famous chestnuts
- Camara de Lobos – stroll the seafront of a charming village with its colorful fishing port, its beach and promenade.
How long it takes
- Half day – you never drive far from Funchal
- Curral das Frieiras is 30min drive away
- Camara de Lobos is 15min drive away
Why I love it It combines the wonders of the inland with the wonders of the coast. You can realise how mountainous the island is and see the most charming old center on the island, where Churchill used to spend time and paint.
Organized tour option: See details, availability & book
Pico do Arieiro, Santana & East Madeira
- The viewpoint of Portela, one of the most beautiful on the island with views of the Eagle Rock (Penha D’Aguia)
- The Santana traditional thatched houses, iconic of Madeira island (note, if you are renting a car don’t miss the view from Rocha do Navio !)
- The magnificent Pico do Arieiro, 3rd summit of the island with impressive views of the jagged mountain peaks
- Full day – a loop around the Eastern part of Madeira island
- Machico is 30min from Funchal
- Santana is 20min away from Machico
- Pico do Arieiro is 45min away from Santana, and 40min away from Funchal
- Group tours a 4×4 but you can visit all those locations renting a normal car
Why I love it It is a day with a little bit of everything: coastal views, mountain views, town, history, culture… You will learn a lot about the history and geology of Madeira and visit iconic locations.
Porto Moniz natural pools
- Porto Moniz Natural Pools – created by lava and filled with sea water
- The Fanal Forest – with ancient Laurrissilva trees
- Seixal natural black sand beach – sand beaches are rare on the island, and this one is stunning with the green lush cliffs next to it.
- But you can also book other tours that combine Porto Moniz with other parts of the island, such as wine tasting or the Skywalk at Cabo Girao
- Porto Moniz is 1h drive away from Funchal
Why I love it Swimming in the natural pools of Porto Moniz was one of my favorite experiences on the island. Even just looking at them with the island in the background and the fort on the side. I love lava rock formations… Note – not all tours include time to go swimming.
Organized tour option: See details, availability & book Or see alternative tours that also include Porto Moniz
2 Best boat tours in Madeira
Madeira is a famous location in Europe to go dolphin and whale watching ( learn more ), therefore a boat tour is a must-do for all visitors of the island. Below is my selection of 2 boat tours worth doing during your holidays in Madeira (depending on how long you have).
Dolphin and whale watching boat tour in Madeira
- If you take a catamaran, you first head away from the shore, looking for dolphins and whales
- Later in the tour, you get close to the giant Cabo Girao cliffs and you can go for a swim
- Around 3 hours
- Departs from Funchal Marina – most tours don’t offer transfer
Why I love it I always love seeing dolphins. And you may be able to also spot a whale! Plus, the swimming experience just under the 589m tall cliffs is impressive. And you get to admire the mountainous island from a distance.
Organized tour option: See catamaran tours & availabilities Alternative: you can also book a tour where the swim is with dolphins when possible – see details & availability
Porto Santo day tour
For this tour, I only recommend it if you have more than 10 days on Madeira Island. There is already enough to see and keep busy in Madeira, before going exploring the rest of the archipelago.
- Ferry from Funchal Harbor to Porto Santo island
- The 9km long sandy beach on the South coast
- The many geological wonders: organ pipe of basalt columns, sand dunes…
- The ferry crossing is 2h30 of Navigation and you have to be on board at least 30min before
Why I love it As someone who loves geology, the very old island of Porto Santo is a marvel. Plus, the island differs greatly from Madeira. The mountains are lower and do not stop the clouds, therefore there is hardly any rain, and hardly any vegetation.
Organized tour option: See details, availability & book Or book yourself a ferry ride and organize your visit.
4 Madeira Walking Tours
Madeira is also famous for its half day and day hikes (see my article with the best hikes on the island ). They offer some of the best landscapes on the island. Know that if you don’t want to hike alone or if you don’t rent a car, there are group hikes that are organized departing the Funchal area: they include the volcanic cliffs, the mountains and also the most famous levada walks (traditional irrigation systems on the side of the mountains).
Ponta de Sao Louranço Hiking tour
About the hike
- Follows the volcanic cliffs of Ponta de Sao Lourenço, the “dragon tail” of Madeira
- 6.4km/4mi return
- Moderate difficulty (nothing technical but some ups and downs)
- 40min drive from Funchal
- 3 to 4 hours return hike
Why I love it Ponta de Sao Louranço is the best place on the island to admire the volcanic origin of Madeira, surrounded by bare landscapes and colorful rocks. Along the hike there are many viewpoints with steep cliffs, sea stacks and magnificent views towards the sea or back towards the island. It is impressive and colorful!
Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Guided hiking tour
- This is the most famous hikes on the island, along the jagged peaks between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo (highest point on the island)
- 14km (8.7mi) return walk
- Or 7km + 2,8km = 9,8km (6mi) on a guided tour with pick up from another location
- Moderate to strenuous – technically not difficult, but lots of steep ups and downs with staircases
- 40min drive to Pico do Arieiro
- self walk will need to return to Pico do Arieiro – 7 to 8h
- Guided walks head to Achadas da Teixeira for a pick up – 5h to 6h hike – 1h drive back
Why I love it This is one of the most impressive hikes you will ever do. It connects Pico do Areeiro (1817m – 5961ft) to Pico Ruivo (1862m – 6108ft), the 3rd and 1st highest peaks on the island. The peaks are sharp and the cliffs dropping straight down around you. You can see mountains all around, as well as the sea on each side. Plus, along the way, there are caves into the volcanic tuff that were shelters for shepherds.
25 Fontes Levada walk tour in Madeira
- Along a levada all the way to a waterfall and lagoon
- Between 9km (5.6mi) return and 16km (10mi) return
- Moderate difficulty – nothing technically difficult – some narrow section on the path
- 50min drive to Rabaçal
- hike is 5h to 5h30 without the shuttle (groups don’t take the shuttle)
- If you are doing this Madeira walking tour on your own, there is a shuttle to reduce the hike to 4h to 4h30
Why I love it This is the most famous Levada walk in Madeira. Head down in the valley to reach the Levada and follow the path in lush vegetation. It leads to a small lagoon and many tiny waterfalls crying on a wall, hence the name of 25 springs. Plus, on that same path, you can also enjoy a quick detour to the Risco waterfall, dropping 100m (330ft) on the side of the mountain.
Caldeirao Verde Hiking tour
- Along a levada on the side of a mountain, surrounded by lush vegetation
- 13km/8mi return
- Easy but long (moderate if adding Caldeirao do Inferno)
- Bring a flashlight for the tunnels!
- Parque Florestal das Queimadas – 50min drive from Funchal
- 5h30 return
- If you are doing the hike on your own, you can add Caldeira do Inferno for 2h return extra
Why I love it Another famous Levada walk in Madeira. It is a long, flat walk in lush vegetation. It leads to a tall waterfall known as Caldeirao Verde. This walk is pretty special. First, there are the weeping walls with green vegetation. And later, it is also an adventure, because you have to make your way through 5 tunnels. Some of them are quite long and very dark. Kids love it! Adults have mixed feeling, especially when they bump their head…
3 Funchal Tours
Funchal is the Capital of the Madeira Archipelago and the main town on the island. It is where most of the historical buildings and museums are located. It deserves a full day or 2 half days to explore its various sections (and longer if you add the Monte area with the gardens).
Funchal old town walking tour
- Touring the old town of Funchal
- The historical Jesuit College
- The 19th century history around the theater
- The 17th century religious monuments
- No hotel pick-up – make your way to the meeting place
Why I love it I think walking is the best way to explore a city. You get to take your time and notice details on the buildings. Plus, with a guided tour you will learn a lot about the history of Funchal and the island: how it was discovered, how it was ruled, how did local used to live…
Tuk Tuk Funchal Tour
- Hop inside a tuktuk to cover more ground around the city and have fu
- The old town with the Jesuit College area, the Cathedral and the 19th century thater
- The area around Mercaro dos Lavoradores (farmers market)
- The neighborhood of Sao Petro with its church and museums
- The municial garden
- includes pick up at your hotel
Why I love it If you are short in time or are looking for an introduction to Funchal before exploring on your own, this is a great option. You cover all the main areas of lower Funchal and learn about its history.
Hop-on hop-off in Funchal – including Camara dos Lobos
- Stops all around Funchal: old town, Jesuit College, Farmers Market
- Plus, another bus route loops to the seaside village of Camara de Lobos
- 2 days to 5 days
- If staying on the bus – 1h35 loop
- Hop-on and Hop-off to see as much as you want
Why I love it If you don’t want a car and don’t want to spend a lot on taxis, this is a great option to reach all the various areas of town, as well as Camara de Lobos.
Organized tour option: See hop-on hop-off tickets
3 Madeira Food & Wine tours
Guided tours are also a great option when you want to learn more about the culinary culture of a destination. You can find some interesting Madeira Food and Wine tours. Some tours stay in Funchal, and other take you to other places to explore plantations and factories.
Food and wine walking tour
- 11 food tastings – chocolate, cookies, fish sandwiches, exotic fruits, Madeiran cuisine
- 6 drink tastings – wines, tea
- Walking tour around Funchal old town
- Tastings at markets, restaurants and wine producers
- No hotel pick up
Why I love it This is one of the best tour for tastings. You will be able to sample a little of everything that is famous on the Madeira island.
Full day wine tour
- Outside Funchal, visit of vineyards and producers
- Vineyards at Camara de Lobos – learn how fortified wine is made.
- Local meal and wine pairing
- North Coast vineyards
- Modern winery in Porto Moniz – white wine
Why I love it Madeira wine is something really special. This tour combines the history of making fortified wine with where the industry is heading today.
Traditional Madeiran Dinner and show
- Eat traditional Espetada
- Drink local wine
- Watch a traditional show
- Evening tours on Fridays
3 Madeira Island Tours – Adventure
And for those who are looking for Madeira tours that are more active and give you an adrenaline rush, check out these experiences:
- Swim, dive, snorkel, climb on cliffs and jump off them!
- Discover the intense experience of coastering in a 4hour tour.
- in Baia d’Abra Natural Park (Caniçal area)
- See details, availability & book
- Hike, jump, slide, climb… inside a canyon
- Another fun experience, but inland
- For beginner to intermediate – See details, availability & book
- Or see more canyoning options
Off-road buggy tour
- Half a day Madeira tour
- Off-road buggy driving
- Mountain, cliffs…
Want to see more of the best Madeira offers?
- 42 Madeira travel tips to plan an unforgettable trip – read article
- Where to stay in Madeira – best areas – read article
- 35 best things to do in Madeira – read article
- The best landscapes in Madeira in 40 pictures – read article
- Tips to drive around Madeira – read article
- See my 36 tips about renting a car in Madeira
- 12 Madeira Hidden Gems – read article
- 4 Madeira Natural Pools (and 6 coastal alternatives) – read article
- 18 best beaches in Madeira – read article
Planning a trip to Madeira?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan:
And keep track of your own trip!
Want to see more of MADEIRA?
PREVIOUS:
Dolphin and Whale watching in Madeira
NEXT:
Best time to visit Madeira
Inspired? Share it on your favorite platform!
Par Claire Robinson Region Lovers SARL 76600 Le Havre FRANCE VAT FR21845103191
Follow ZigZag on Facebook
Follow ZigZag on Pinterest
Website in French: ZigZagvoyages.fr
Website in German: ZigZagreisen.de
Website in Spanish: ZigZagviajes.com
And discover the French regions:
Normandielovers.fr LoireLovers.fr CorsicaLovers.fr Provencelovers.fr
Privacy / Terms of Use / Disclosure Policies / Refund policy
Become an affiliate for the ZigZag road trip guides
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ZigZagOnEarth.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Amazon.uk and Amazon.ca
...the Pearl of the Atlantic
To book a private tour of this beautiful island,
call + 351 917 883 144 or book online:
Day and half day tours
Tailor-made tours with a friendly local guide.
You're never far away from a beautiful view in Madeira. Let me show you some of the best. Without the pressure of driving yourself and without a fixed itinerary, you can sit back and enjoy the journey and the sights, with air-conditioning and WiFi.
Transfers, Gardens, Golf and Levadas
Where would you like to go?
I'll collect you from and take you to the airport, or be waiting for you as you leave your cruise ship. You can visit one of the many beautiful gardens, play Golf... or walk along the famous Levadas.
TRANSFERS TO AND FROM THE AIRPORT (scroll down for rates)
… for famous gardens, like the Botanical Gardens and some that may not be in the guide books.
… if you're arriving by ship I can arrange an itinerary to fit whatever time you have available.
… to play golf, but the courses are not just for playing on, they're also good for taking in the views!
… to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature walking alongside the Levadas.
See the best of Madeira with a private tour...
I can collect you from your flight and get you back to the airport in plenty of time for the return journey. When you arrive I will be holding your name in the arrivals hall.
If you're arriving by cruise then I can collect you from your ship and get you back at whatever time suits you.
The time we leave on a tour and return is completely flexible.
Prices for Airport Transfers:
1-4 people, 35-40 Euros
Over 4 people, 60 Euros
THE 10 BEST Madeira Private Tours
Private tours in madeira.
- Sightseeing Tours
- Ports of Call Tours
- Wine Tours & Tastings
- Private Tours
- Up to 1 hour
- 1 to 4 hours
- 4 hours to 1 day
- 5.0 of 5 bubbles
- 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- Likely to Sell Out
- The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.
1. Madeira Island Private Wine Full-day Tour in all terrain vehicle
2. West Side Private Full Day Madeira Tour
3. 3-Hour Madeira Scenic Island Tour (Price per Sidecar - 1 or 2 passengers)
4. Private Madeira Island Tour Full Day
5. Madeira Private Bespoke Exclusive Grand Tour | Premium Quality
6. Madeira Grand Experience (price per tukxi - up to 3 people)
7. Madeira Private Sunset Boat Tour from Funchal
8. Private Full Day Off-Road Tour in Madeira
9. Tuk Tuk tour in Funchal
10. Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira
11. Nuns Valley Tour by Tukxi (price per tukxi - up to 3 people)
12. Funchal Epic Private Tuk-Tuk Tour
13. Private VipTours up to 4pax/8pax/19pax
14. Private Half day tour (8 seat Mercedes Vito)
15. 4x4 Safari Private Jeep, Full Day, Customizable Santana or Porto Moniz or other
16. Private Tour in the City Centre of Funchal with a Local
17. Private Tour | Full Day 4x4 Tour | Up to 6 Persons
18. Private Sunrise Pico do Areeiro Half Day with easy levada walk
19. Funchal City Tour by Tukxi (price per tukxi - up to 5 people)
20. Private Tour Cable Car Toboggan and Botanical Garden
21. Madeira Private Jeep 4x4: Amazing West Full-Day Tour incl Natural Pools
22. Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Paddleboarding from Funchal
23. Madeira "Mystery Tour" Half-Day - Private 4x4 Jeep
24. A great tuk-tuk adventure Tour at Cabo Girão - Skywalk
25. Adventure Trikes Private Tour in Madeira
26. 4-Hour Private Outdoor Tour in Madeira
27. Private 4x4 Jeep Full Day Porto Moniz or Santana
28. Private Half-Day 4X4 Experience: East or West
29. The Fantastic Waterfalls -Private Service
30. Private Ponta São Lourenço Walk and Boat Return
What travelers are saying.
- Private Madeira Island Tour Full Day
- Madeira "Mystery Tour" Full-Day - Up to 6 Private 4x4 Jeep
- Private Full Day Off-Road Tour in Madeira
- West Side Private Full Day Madeira Tour
- Madeira Island Private Wine Full-day Tour in all terrain vehicle
- Up Mountain Madeira
- Pearl of the Atlantic Madeira
- Hit the Road Tours
- Classic Madeira Tours
- Madeira Wonder Hikes
- Go Local Madeira Private Tours
- Secret Madeira
- Atlantic Pearl Catamaran Trips
- Madeira taxi tours by Diogo
- Madeira Sidecar Tours
- Green Devil Safari
- Swimmadeira - Swimming Holidays
The Perfect Holiday
Spend your holiday with your friends & family and forget about the crowds..
We help you plan your holiday in Madeira. Not only to make the best choices when to come and where to stay but also how to plan and what to do so that you can enjoy your vacation the most. Have a look at our private tours and a selection of other activities in Madeira. Come with us, and you will encounter during your holiday experiences for all your senses that you will remember forever. You will see not only unspoiled nature, levadas and trails deep inside the laurel forest, but also scenic viewpoints. If you want, you can also taste regional delicacies at local bars. Age and fitness level does not matter, we tailor the experiences to your expectations. Our customised tours also offer children friendly adventures for families. Your holiday in Madeira is available with Hungarian, German or English speaking private guide. Madeira with Linda is authorised to use the Clean&Safe stamp and is offering you safe and stress-free holidays in Madeira.
Our Favourite Gems
Discover Madeira with Linda.
Discover the levadas and hidden treasures of Madeira. We have private walks, where everything is about you so that you have an unforgettable holiday.
Laurisilva forest (UNESCO world heritage)
Stunning viewpoints
Levada water channels
Refreshing lavapools
IMAGES
COMMENTS
The Madeira Islands are renowned for their Madeira fortified wine and this full-day tasting tour from Funchal is the ideal introduction. Explore the vineyards of Câmara de Lobos, Porto Moniz, and São Vicente; enjoy winery tours, cellar visits, and guided wine tastings; and tuck into a delicious Madeiran lunch at a traditional restaurant.
Discover the best tours in Madeira, an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, with stunning natural beauty and diverse attractions. Choose from private, food, cultural, jeep, hiking, and more tours to suit your preferences and interests.
8 contributions. Amazing - best tour best provider. Review of: Madeira Westside Achadas Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal and Fanal. Written February 9, 2024. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Elle3. Colchester10 contributions.
Madeira Tours & Trips. Find the right tour package for you through Madeira. We've got 43 trips going to Madeira, starting from just 5 days in length, and the longest tour is 21 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the most tour departures. Dates & length Places Filters.
These experiences are best for tours in Madeira Islands: 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; See more tours in Madeira Islands on Tripadvisor
Knottingley, UK. Brilliant time. Review of: Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran. Written 27 March 2024. Alan S. Matlock, England, United Kingdom. Fantastic tour of the West. Review of: Madeira Best of the West Day Tour. Written 27 March 2024.
Jeep Tour, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pool, Fanal Forest and Cabo Girao. 2,237. Uncover the natural splendor surrounding Funchal on this full-day northern wonders Jeep trip. Stay from Funchal's well-trodden paths in a fully-equipped Jeep to see the awe-inspiring plateaus at Paul da Serra.
Welcome to Madeira Sunrise Tours, your premier destination for unforgettable island tours in the heart of Madeira Island. Our wide range of offerings includes serene walks along the island's unique Levadas, adventurous offroad safaris that traverse the rugged landscapes, exhilarating boat trips offering panoramic ocean views, and thrilling canyoning experiences in Madeira's stunning gorges.
Porto Moniz - Enchanted Terraces: Open 4x4 Full Day Tour. 446. Delve into the spectacular landscapes of Madeira's northwest coast on an explorative full-day tour from Funchal. Accompanied by your guide, travel through scenery of outstanding natural beauty, gazing at landmarks like Paul da Serra and Porto Moniz.
10. Madeira: Best of the East Tour from Funchal. Discover the diverse landscapes of Madeira on a day-long tour. Wander charming towns, enjoy panoramic views and learn about the area from your expert guide. Depart from the meeting point at Funchal's Lido or take advantage of a free hotel pick-up in selected areas.
We proudly invite you to discover our beautiful Madeira Island, Porto Santo and Desertas. You will have a wonderful time with us! Our tours. We offer comfortable tours over the best scenic routes on the Island, from the blue ocean to mountain peaks, 7 days a week! For more details select a full day or half-day tour from the links on the left.
2 Best boat tours in Madeira. Madeira is a famous location in Europe to go dolphin and whale watching , therefore a boat tour is a must-do for all visitors of the island. Below is my selection of 2 boat tours worth doing during your holidays in Madeira (depending on how long you have). Dolphin and whale watching boat tour in Madeira
The time we leave on a tour and return is completely flexible. See the best sights of the beautiful island of Madeira with Manuel Tours. Manuel is a friendly and knowledgeable, local guide. Enjoy a private half day or full day tour with a flexible itinerary at your own pace.
Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Funchal: 1) Highlights of Western Madeira - Full Day Tour. 2) Ex Portuguese army Classic jeep tour to The Southwest of Madeira. 3) Madeira Wine Tasting & 4x4 Half Day Tour. 4) Sunrise at the Summit Full Day Private Tour.
Discover the best ways to experience Madeira's stunning coastline, hiking trails, and culture with these 20 tours and day trips. From dolphin watching and canyoning to levada walks and UNESCO forests, find your perfect Madeira excursion here.
Make the most of your time in Madeira and cover the entire island in just two days on this small-group excursion. Set out for two full-day tours to see top landmarks including Girao Cape, the Porto Moniz natural pools, the fishing village of Camara de Lobos, and the Arieiro and Ruivo summits. Experience nature, history, and tradition on this comprehensive tour.
Private Tours in Madeira. Enter dates. Filters • 1. Sort. Explore Madeira the way you want to with your own private tour guide! Forget about getting flustered with maps. For lifelong memories of Madeira tailored to you, book a private tour effortlessly online with Tripadvisor.
All Island Tours and Levada Walks, supplied by a local Licenced tour operators and accompanied by a Qualified Madeira Guide.The course of the levadas (irrigation channels) can be followed, which crisscross the country side making this walks a perfect way to view the fantastic natural sights. Madeira Island Walks have divided the Levadas walks ...
Discover the eastern landscapes of Madeira with ease on an 8-hour tour from Funchal, ideal for lovers of natural landscapes. Ascend to Pico de Arieiro, Madeira's third-highest peak, and admire the famous Laurissilva Forest, which dates back to prehistoric times. Plus, you'll enjoy lunch in the colorful town of Santana, visit Machico, and admire panoramic views from Ponta de São Lourenço ...
View More. Fantastic Madeira tour with Linda! We have spent 2,5 days with Linda and we really enjoyed them. A wonderful experience and we warmly recommend you to book her if you want to visit the Madeira island avoiding all buses trafic jam and the crowded locations. Philippe & Alain Chavanes (F) Read More. View More. Travel Planning ️ ...
Discovery Island. Travessa da Levada dos Tornos, 22 | 9050-195 Funchal. (+351) 965 215 744. Email. Website. Find out more.
Full-day West Madeira tour from Funchal. Take in the views from Pico da Torre, Cabo Girão, and Encumeada. Visit the island villages of Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira Brava, and Porto Moniz. Marvel at the natural wonders of the Ribeira da Janela, Laurissilva forest and Paul da Serra. Great-value tour includes hotel pickup and round-trip transport.
Funchal, Madeira. Madeira Private Jeep 4x4: Amazing West Full-Day Tour incl Natural Pools. 23. from $352.92. Per group. Funchal, Madeira. Oldtimer Sightseeing Tour in the West and Northwest. 2. from $193.01.