Full Day Madeira Island Tour - Open Roof
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Come discover the eastern side of Madeira Island with its breathtaking landscapes and know its peculiarities!
The first stop is at Pico do Areeiro with a privileged view over the imposition of the Madeirese Mountain Mass.
Then, enjoy the tour to Ribeiro Frio where the indigenous Laurissilva forest cover presents itself with a greenish glow. In Ribeiro Frio you can go to the Aquícola station and/or enjoy the pedestrian route on the Balcões trail (PR11).
Then it goes to Santana where a valuable natural, but also cultural heritage is preserved with its typical colmo houses. Lunch will take place in Santana.
Continue the tour to Porto da Cruz where you can enjoy a second pedestrian route and also visit the old sugarcane factory.
Finally, it goes to Ponta de São Lourenço, a peninsula that offers a unique and imposing landscape, with panoramic views over the North and South sides of the island.
You end up returning to Funchal.
Available options
Full Day Madeira Island Tour - Open Roof
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Private Guide English, Spanish, French and Portuguese
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The first stop is at Pico do Areeiro de Madeira offering a privileged view over the imposition of the Madeirese Mountain Mass.
2
In Ribeiro Frio you will enjoy its vast forest spot, where you can find endemic species of Laurissilva.
Enjoy privileged contact with Madeirese fauna and flora.
3
Discover the Aquícola post, whose rainbow trout nurseries have a concrete goal.
4
The Vereda dos Balcões is a small track, 1.5 km (+ 1.5 km of return), which leads you to enjoy the views of the Miradouro dos Balcões.
The Miradouro dos Balcões offers wide views of the Ribeira da Metade valley. It is a picture of monumental proportions, dominated by the Laurissilva forest.
5
Stop 5
Santana is distinguished as a “Biosphere Reserve” by UNESCO, the municipality of Santana preserves a valuable natural but also cultural heritage.
The “Casinos de Santana” have become widely known icons nationally (and not only) for the peculiar beauty of their architectural style. With a triangular shape and coated colm, they are the largest symbol of this municipality on the north coast of the island of Madeira.
Council where lunch will take place.
6
The Northern Engenhos are the main living testimonies of the island's historic sugar production. Visiting these facilities is therefore synonymous with enjoying an authentic journey in time.
7
Stop 7
The easternmost end of the island constitutes a place of obligatory passage for anyone who intends to explore the charms of this Madeirese coast. Ponta de São Lourenço offers a unique and imposing landscape, with panoramic views over the north and south sides of the island.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
10 reviews
5★
10
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Funchal
Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, is a city where lush landscapes meet charming architecture. Known for its subtropical climate, beautiful gardens, and dramatic coastal scenery, Funchal offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Botanical Garden
A stunning garden with a wide variety of exotic plants, offering panoramic views of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean.
Nature
1-2 hours
€7.50
Sé Cathedral
A beautiful 15th-century Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Funchal, featuring intricate architecture and historical significance.
Historical/Religious
30-45 minutes
Free (donations welcome)
Mercado dos Lavradores
A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts, providing a glimpse into Madeira's culture and daily life.
Market
1 hour
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Cabo Girão Skywalk
A breathtaking glass platform extending over the cliffs of Cabo Girão, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline.
Nature/Adventure
1-2 hours
€5
Santana
A charming traditional village known for its iconic triangular thatched-roof houses, showcasing the unique architectural heritage of Madeira.
Cultural
Half day
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bolo do Caco
A traditional Madeiran bread made with sweet potato, often served with garlic butter and grilled meats.
Bread
Contains gluten
Espetada
A skewer of beef marinated in wine, garlic, and spices, grilled to perfection.
Main Course
Contains beef, gluten
Poncha
A traditional Madeiran cocktail made with aguardente (a type of brandy), honey, and lemon or orange juice.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Bacalhau à Madeirense
Salted cod cooked with onions, peppers, and sometimes raisins and olives, a popular dish in Madeira.
Main Course
Contains fish, may contain gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking
Paragliding
Cable car rides
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Gardens and parks
Museum visits
Historical sites
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
This is the best time to visit Funchal, with pleasant temperatures, lower rainfall, and fewer tourists. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
18°C to 25°C
64°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (WET) / GMT+1 (WEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Funchal is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or distractions
Getting there
By air
- Madeira Airport (Funchal Airport) • 20 km from Funchal
By bus
Funchal Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and efficient, with frequent services connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Zona Velha)
Funchal Marina
Monte
Day trips
Porto Santo
100 km from Funchal • Full day
A beautiful island known for its golden sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere, offering a perfect escape from the bustle of Funchal.
Santana
30 km from Funchal • Half day
A charming traditional village known for its iconic triangular thatched-roof houses, showcasing the unique architectural heritage of Madeira.
Pico do Arieiro
20 km from Funchal • Half day
A stunning mountain peak offering breathtaking views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean, with various hiking trails and scenic drives.
Festivals
Madeira Flower Festival • March/April
Atlantic Festival • August
Christmas and New Year's Celebrations • December/January
Pro tips
- Visit the local markets for fresh produce, flowers, and unique souvenirs
- Take a cable car ride for a scenic and memorable experience
- Try local dishes like Bolo do Caco and Espetada for an authentic culinary experience
- Explore the Old Town for historic charm, vibrant nightlife, and local shops
- Participate in a wine tasting tour to learn about the island's winemaking traditions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
