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5 Days in Funchal: Exploring Natural Wonders and Cultural Delights

Christine Ertl

3 Jan 2024

0

Embark on a thrilling adventure through Funchal, immersing yourself in the stunning beauty of Jardim Municipal do Funchal, discovering the historical Forteresse de Santiago, experiencing the thrill of a traditional Monte toboggan ride with Associação dos Carreiros do Monte, and marveling at the breathtaking views from Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos. Indulge in the vibrant Lido bathing complex, explore the enchanting Quinta da Boa Vista, and uncover the secrets of Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico. Immerse yourself in the captivating Monte Palace Madeira, conquer the majestic peaks of Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, and unwind in the serene beauty of Palheiro Gardens and Madeira Botanical Garden.

Trip to Funchal

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Discovering Funchal's Hidden Gems

+

$13

·

$ 22

Hotel Orca Praia

Depart from your stay 🏨

14 - 17 min

~

Directions

Jardim Municipal do Funchal

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

6 - 8 min

~

Directions

Forteresse de Santiago

Enormous, yellow-hued fort built in the 17th century to defend the city from attacks by pirates.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

20 - 24 min

~

Directions

Associação dos Carreiros do Monte

Site for hill rides in handcrafted wicker sleds pulled by men known as "carreiros."

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM

•

$13

14 - 17 min

~

Directions

Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos

Viewpoint with a cafe & vistas sweeping over Funchal, the sea & rugged inland mountains.

12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

•

Free

Day 2Immersing in Coastal Bliss and Historical Marvels

+

$0

·

$ 18

Hotel Orca Praia

Depart from your stay 🏨

10 - 12 min

~

Directions

Lido bathing complex

Seafront leisure complex with saltwater tidal pools, a kids' pool & sundecks overlooking the sea.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

15 - 18 min

~

Directions

Quinta da Boa Vista

Year-round gardens showcasing a wide variety of orchids & other exotic plants & flowers.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

12 - 15 min

~

Directions

Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico

Imposing hilltop castle offering panoramic views of the city & sea, plus an adjacent cafe.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

•

Free

Day 3Unveiling the Mysteries of Monte Palace Madeira

+

$38

·

$ 9

Hotel Orca Praia

Depart from your stay 🏨

17 - 21 min

~

Directions

Monte Palace Madeira

Big, multi-level garden with exotic trees & flowers, ponds, African sculptures & a mineral museum.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$38

Day 4Conquering the Majestic Peaks of Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo

+

$0

·

$ 13

Hotel Orca Praia

Depart from your stay 🏨

37 - 45 min

~

Directions

Pico do Arieiro

A road reaches this 1,818-meter high peak, with a cafe & gift shop, that often looks down on clouds.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

65 - 78 min

~

Directions

Pico Ruivo

Accessible by foot only, Madeira Island's highest mountain offers coastal views, trails & restrooms.

10:30 AM - 1:30 PM

•

Free

Day 5Serenity and Beauty in Palheiro Gardens and Madeira Botanical Garden

+

$50

·

$ 13

Hotel Orca Praia

Depart from your stay 🏨

17 - 21 min

~

Directions

Palheiro Gardens

Landscaped green space showcasing tropical plants in a hillside venue overlooking the ocean.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$25

9 - 11 min

~

Directions

Madeira Botanical Garden

Hillside botanical gardens with a bird park, natural history museum & glass houses, plus sea views.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

$25

Budget breakdown: $173 In total

Activities & Food:$100

Transport:$73