Background
Trip Planner Logo

8 Days in Funchal: A Journey of Discovery

Justin kasper

Justin kasper

4 Jan 2024

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Funchal, exploring ancient marvels, vibrant markets, and breathtaking viewpoints. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this enchanting city, and indulge in the natural beauty that surrounds it. Get ready for an extraordinary experience that will leave you in awe.

Trip to Funchal

Day 1Unveiling the Secrets of Madeira at Madeira Story Centre
+

$20

Madeira Story Centre
Unique, modern museum with interactive exhibits of Madeira's history, plus a bistro with a terrace.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
•
$20
2 - 3 min

~

Directions

Zona Velha
Historic area with narrow cobbled streets lined with restaurant & bars, plus old merchant houses.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
Day 2A Tranquil Escape to Monte Palace Madeira
+

$38

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 3Exploring the Heart of Funchal: Cathedral, Farmers' Market, and Carreiros do Monte
+

$13

·

$ 5

Funchal Cathedral
Gothic-style, late-15th-century Catholic church with an ornate interior comprising 3 naves.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
Free
7 - 10 min

~

Directions

Farmers' Market
Traditional indoor facility built in 1940 featuring merchants of produce, flowers & seafood.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
17 - 21 min

~

Directions

Associação dos Carreiros do Monte
Site for hill rides in handcrafted wicker sleds pulled by men known as "carreiros."
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
•
$13
Day 4Conquering the Majestic Pico Ruivo and Pico dos Barcelos
+

$0

·

$ 5

Pico Ruivo
Accessible by foot only, Madeira Island's highest mountain offers coastal views, trails & restrooms.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
•
Free
58 - 70 min

~

Directions

Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos
Viewpoint with a cafe & vistas sweeping over Funchal, the sea & rugged inland mountains.
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
•
Free
Day 5Reaching New Heights at Pico do Arieiro and Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico
+

$0

·

$ 5

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
35 - 42 min

~

Directions

Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico
Imposing hilltop castle offering panoramic views of the city & sea, plus an adjacent cafe.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
Day 6Journeying Through History at Museu Quinta das Cruzes and Relaxing at Lido Bathing Complex
+

$13

·

$ 5

Museu Quinta das Cruzes
500 years of art, ceramics, jewelry & antiques housed in an 18th-century villa in lush gardens.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
•
$13
12 - 15 min

~

Directions

Lido bathing complex
Seafront leisure complex with saltwater tidal pools, a kids' pool & sundecks overlooking the sea.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
•
Free
Day 7Immersing in Nature's Splendor at Madeira Botanical Garden and Forteresse de Santiago
+

$25

·

$ 5

Madeira Botanical Garden
Hillside botanical gardens with a bird park, natural history museum & glass houses, plus sea views.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
$25
9 - 11 min

~

Directions

Forteresse de Santiago
Enormous, yellow-hued fort built in the 17th century to defend the city from attacks by pirates.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
Day 8A Perfect Day of Golfing at Palheiro Golf
+

$125

Palheiro Golf
Scenic golf resort offering an 18-hole course with mountain & ocean views, plus a luxe hotel & spa.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
•
$125

Budget breakdown: $254 In total

Activities & Food:$233
Transport:$22