Dreaming of a perfect island getaway where you can hike through misty forests in the morning and relax by the ocean in the afternoon? Madeira, Portugal’s stunning Atlantic gem, offers exactly that. In just three days, you can experience everything from dramatic mountain peaks and traditional villages to exotic gardens and natural swimming pools.
I’ve explored every corner of this beautiful island, and I’m excited to share my tried-and-tested 3-day itinerary that combines must-see attractions with hidden gems. Whether you’re a nature lover, food enthusiast, or photography fan, this guide will help you make the most of your time on Madeira without feeling rushed. Let’s discover how to turn 72 hours into an unforgettable island adventure.
🏡 Where to stay in Madeira:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Saccharum - Resort and Spa - Savoy Signature
- ✨ 5-Star: Savoy Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World - Savoy Signature
- 🏨 4-Star: Dom Pedro Madeira, Machico
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Catedral, Funchal
- 💸 Cheap: Pestana Quinta do Arco Nature & Rose Garden Hotel, Arco de São Jorge
- 🏢 Apartment: CBA Suites Madeira, Funchal
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel, Funchal
- 🏩 For Couples: Pestana Casino Park Hotel & Casino, Funchal
👩🏫 Top-Rated Madeira Guided Tours:
- Madeira Small-Group 2-Day Full Island Tour from € 85 (⭐ 4.8/5)
- Madeira to Cabo Girão Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Sail from € 45 (⭐ 4.7/5)
- Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal Jeep Tour from € 65 (⭐ 4.9/5)
- Funchal: Pico do Arieiro & Pico Ruivo Sunrise Hike from € 50 (⭐ 4.8/5)
- From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching from € 40 (⭐ 4.6/5)
3 Day in Madeira Itinerary: Quick Overview
- Day 1 – Funchal’s Finest: Start with a morning cable car ride to Monte for panoramic views of Madeira’s capital. Explore the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and Botanical Gardens, followed by an evening discovering the painted doors of Old Town Funchal and traditional market.
- Day 2 – Mountain Adventures: Begin early at Pico do Arieiro for sunrise mountain views. Experience the famous levada walks near Ribeiro Frio, then explore the traditional A-frame houses of Santana, ending with a peaceful evening in Machico’s golden sand beach.
- Day 3 – Coastal Wonders: Start at Porto Moniz’s natural swimming pools, then drive along the dramatic north coast. Visit Cabo Girão’s glass skywalk and the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, concluding with a spectacular sunset at Ponta do Sol.
Day 1: Exploring Funchal and Surroundings
Recommended Tours & Tickets for Day 1:
- From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching: Embark on an eco-friendly catamaran cruise to spot dolphins and whales off Madeira’s coast. Enjoy panoramic views, expert commentary, and a relaxing sail near Cabo Girão’s cliffs.
- Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal Jeep Tour: Explore Madeira’s west side on this thrilling jeep tour featuring the Cabo Girão Skywalk, Porto Moniz pools, Seixal’s black sand beach, and the enchanting Fanal forest. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
- 3D Fun Art Museum Funchal – Check availability of tickets
Morning: Funchal City Highlights
Early Start. Begin your Funchal morning with a ride on the iconic cable car from the Old Town to Monte. The journey takes 15 minutes and costs €11 one-way, offering breathtaking 360-degree views over Funchal’s terracotta rooftops and the Atlantic Ocean. I recommend catching the first cable car at 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and heat.
Garden Paradise. The Monte Palace Tropical Garden awaits right at the cable car exit. This stunning 70,000-square-meter paradise features Japanese gardens, ancient olive trees, and koi ponds. Plan about 2-3 hours here to fully appreciate its beauty. Entry costs €12.50 and includes a complimentary glass of Madeira wine.
| Garden | Adult Price | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Monte Palace | €12.50 | 9:30-18:00 |
| Botanical Garden | €7.50 | 9:30-18:00 |
Local Culture. After exploring Monte, head to the Botanical Garden via the second cable car line. The garden showcases Madeira’s incredible flora diversity across 35,000 square meters. I particularly loved the indigenous plant section and the bird park.
Pro Tips:
- Purchase a combined cable car and gardens ticket for better value
- Bring a light jacket as Monte can be cooler than Funchal
- Visit the gardens clockwise to catch the best photo opportunities
Afternoon: Funchal Old Town
Market Immersion. Mercado dos Lavradores isn’t just a market – it’s one of the most interesting cultural experiences in Madeira. Local farmers from the central mountain regions bring their produce here daily. The basement fish market showcases the bounty of Madeira’s waters, including black scabbardfish, a local delicacy.
Cultural Walk. The welcome to Madeira continues in the Old Town, where the Rua de Santa Maria features artwork on over 200 doors. This area also offers much to see in terms of traditional restaurants and poncha bars. You can also visit the CR7 Museum, celebrating Madeira’s most famous son.
Local Life. The afternoon buzz brings out street musicians and local artisans selling handmade crafts. I spent hours watching elderly ladies making traditional embroidery while sharing stories about island life.
Evening: Sunset and Dinner
Coastal Views. As the day winds down, Santa Catarina Park provides one of the most beautiful viewpoints over the south coast of Madeira. The much drier south offers spectacular sunset views, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Dining Experience. The restaurant scene comes alive as evening approaches. Look for places serving traditional dishes with a modern twist.
Best Local Dishes to Try:
- Espetada (beef on laurel skewers)
- Lapas (grilled limpets)
- Bolo do caco (traditional bread)
- Black scabbardfish with banana
- Passion fruit pudding
| Restaurant Type | Average Cost | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Local Tavern | €15-25 | 7:00-9:00 PM |
| Fine Dining | €40-60 | 8:00-10:00 PM |
| Wine Bars | €20-30 | 6:00-8:00 PM |
| Street Food | €5-10 | All Day |
Night Culture. After dinner, join locals for a digestive poncha (traditional drink) at one of the bars in the old town. The atmosphere is particularly lively on weekend evenings when local musicians perform in the streets.
Day 2: Nature and Adventure in Eastern Madeira
Recommended Tours for Day 2:
- Funchal: Pico do Arieiro & Pico Ruivo Sunrise Hike: Begin your day with a guided sunrise hike between Madeira’s two highest peaks. Enjoy breathtaking views, rugged trails, and expert guidance on this unforgettable adventure.
- From Funchal: Transfer to Pico do Arieiro & Pico Ruivo Trail: Convenient roundtrip transfers from Funchal make accessing the Pico do Arieiro trail easy. Perfect for independent hikers looking to explore Madeira’s stunning mountain paths.
- From Funchal: Pico do Arieiro Sunrise & Optional Breakfast: Witness a magical sunrise at Pico do Arieiro and enjoy an optional breakfast to start your day. This tour combines comfort and natural beauty for a memorable morning in Madeira.
Morning: Pico do Arieiro and Levada Walks
Sunrise Adventure. Get up early to witness one of the most spectacular experiences in Madeira – sunrise at Pico do Arieiro. At 1,818 meters, this peak offers breathtaking views over the island of Madeira. I recommend arriving at least an hour before sunrise to secure parking, as this spot has become one of the highlights of Madeira.
Mountain Trail. The PR1 trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo takes you along steep cliffs and through the heart of the island’s central mountain peaks. The trail covers about 7 kilometers one-way and takes 3-4 hours, featuring stunning views of the north coast and the city of Funchal below.
| Trail Section | Duration | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Arieiro Viewpoint | 30 mins | Easy |
| Mountain Ridge | 2 hours | Challenging |
| Pico Ruivo Summit | 1 hour | Moderate |
Nature’s Wonders. The path winds through the protected Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site unique to the Atlantic islands. You’ll encounter several tunnels along the way, so pack a flashlight. The morning fog often creates a mystical atmosphere as you traverse above the clouds.
Essential Hiking Tips:
- Bring warm layers (it’s cold at the peaks)
- Carry a headlamp for tunnels
Levada Experience. After the mountain hike, head to Ribeiro Frio to explore the famous levada walks in Madeira. The Levada das 25 Fontes is one of the best of Madeira’s water channels, leading to a spectacular waterfall. It’s a bit easier than the morning hike, making it perfect for afternoon exploration.
Local Insight. I recommend renting a car for this adventure – the roads in Madeira are well-maintained though winding. The freedom of having your own vehicle means you can covered many areas in one day, making it ideal when you spend 3 days in Madeira. Many travel guides suggest organized day tours, but having your own transportation is much cheaper and offers more flexibility.
Pro Tip: Love spending time in nature? Consider extending your stay to visit other peaks like Ponta do Rosto or the mystical Fanal forest. The island offers countless places in Madeira worth exploring, from Paul da Serra plateau to the dramatic Achadas da Cruz cable car ride.
Afternoon: Santana and Ponta de São Lourenço
Traditional Heritage. Santana’s iconic triangular houses with thatched roofs stand as one of the archipelago’s most distinctive landmarks. These traditional homes reflect the area’s isolated history and unique cultural heritage. The best preserved examples are located in the town center, where you can explore both inhabited homes and museum pieces.
Nature Reserve. The Parque Temático da Madeira offers a fascinating glimpse into island life, spanning 145,000 square meters with four multimedia pavilions. Entry costs €10 for adults, and you’ll need about 2 hours to explore the exhibitions about island history, science, and traditions.
| Attraction | Entry Fee | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Theme Park | €10 | 10:00-18:00 |
| Santana Houses | Free | All day |
| Forest Park | Free | Sunrise-Sunset |
Forest Escape. The Parque Florestal das Queimadas provides a perfect afternoon retreat, showcasing the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest. The park features peaceful picnic areas and walking paths surrounded by ancient laurel trees. Don’t miss the Casa de Abrigo das Queimadas with its remarkable thatched roof.
Pro Tips:
- Visit the theme park first, then the traditional houses
- Consider having a late lunch in Santana before heading to the forest
- Allow time for short walks in the Laurissilva Forest
Evening Light. End your afternoon at the Rocha do Navio viewing point, offering dramatic views of the rugged coastline and the Viúva islet. The location provides excellent photo opportunities as the sun begins to set over the Atlantic.
Evening: Relaxation in Machico
Evening Charm. Machico offers a laid-back alternative to Funchal’s bustling nightlife, perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of adventure. The town’s picturesque natural bay provides a peaceful setting for evening strolls along the sea promenade, where elderly locals gather to play cards under shady trees.
Dining Scene. The town center features various restaurants serving local cuisine, with most establishments concentrated around the peaceful Largo Senhor dos Milagres square. The area known as Banda de Alén, with its old fishermen’s houses, offers an authentic dining atmosphere away from tourist crowds.
Beach Time. End your day at either São Roque beach or Praia da Banda Além, where the yellow Moroccan sand creates a perfect sunset setting. The spacious esplanade connecting Forum Machico and Nossa Senhora do Amparo fort comes alive with locals taking their evening walks.
Local Entertainment. While nightlife is modest compared to Funchal, local bars offer a friendly atmosphere where you can catch up with friends, enjoy music, and watch sports on TV. For cultural entertainment, you might catch one of the traditional events that occasionally take place in the town square.
Pro Tip: Visit during October 8th to experience the unique torchlit procession celebrating the miraculous crucifix of Capela dos Milagres, a special local celebration that brings the community together.
Day 3: Western Madeira Wonders
Recommended Tours & Tickets for Day 3:
- Madeira: Jeep 4x4 Safari Tour with Porto Moniz Natural Pools: Embark on an exhilarating 4×4 jeep adventure through Madeira’s rugged landscapes, discovering hidden waterfalls and ending with a refreshing dip in Porto Moniz’s famous natural pools. Perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.
- From Funchal: Porto Moniz and Seixal Day Tour by Jeep: Experience the stunning western coast of Madeira on this full-day jeep tour, visiting the charming villages of Porto Moniz and Seixal. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views, lush forests, and the opportunity to swim in natural volcanic pools.
- Porto Moniz: Diving with Sharks and Rays in Madeira Aquarium: Dive into an unforgettable underwater experience at Porto Moniz Aquarium, where you can swim alongside sharks and rays in a controlled environment. This unique activity offers both excitement and education about Madeira’s marine life.
- Madeira Porto Moniz, Cabo Girao, Forest Jeep Tour: Discover the northern wonders of Madeira on this comprehensive jeep tour, including stops at Porto Moniz, Cabo Girão, and lush forests. Ideal for those wanting to explore multiple highlights of the island in one day, combining scenic drives with cultural insights.
Morning: Porto Moniz Natural Pools
Natural Wonder. The Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools, formed by ancient volcanic activity, offer a unique morning experience on Madeira’s northwest coast. The complex opens at 9:00 AM, making it perfect for an early start. The pools cover 3,800 square meters with crystal-clear seawater that’s constantly refreshed by the Atlantic Ocean.
Practical Details. Entry costs €3 for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors. The pools feature excellent facilities including changing rooms, a bar, first aid station, and a children’s pool. During winter (current season), the pools operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
| Visitor Type | Entry Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults | €3.00 |
| Students/Seniors | €1.50 |
| Children under 3 | Free |
| Disabled (60%+) | Free |
Adventure Options. Beyond simple swimming, you can explore lava tunnels and chambers with a snorkel and mask. The eastern end features a diving board about three to four meters high for the more adventurous visitors. A steel ladder provides safe access back to the pools.
Local Tip. For a more wild experience, visit the free Piscinas Naturais do Aquário nearby, which offers a more natural setting with views of Ilheu Mole lighthouse. The water temperature stays comfortable year-round at 20-21°C.
Morning Essentials:
- Arrive early to secure parking
- Bring swimming gear and water shoes
- Pack a snorkel set for exploring
- Consider renting sun loungers
Afternoon: Scenic Drives and Viewpoints
Mountain Journey. From Paul da Serra plateau, Madeira’s unique landscape unfolds before you. The roads in Madeira wind through dramatic scenery, making driving in Madeira an adventure itself. I found the plateau particularly mesmerizing when morning mist creates an otherworldly atmosphere.
Village Discovery. São Vicente nestled in the north coast offers a perfect lunch stop. The village showcases traditional Madeiran architecture and excellent local restaurants. A typical lunch here costs around €15-20, much cheaper than tourist spots in Funchal.
Natural Wonders. The journey continues to the famous natural pools of Porto Moniz, one of the best of Madeira’s coastal attractions. These volcanic rock formations create perfect swimming spots filled with crystal-clear Atlantic waters.
| Activity | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Pools Entry | €1.50 | 2-3 hours |
| Local Lunch | €15-20 | 1 hour |
| Viewpoint Stops | Free | 30 mins each |
Evening: Sunset at Ponta do Sol
Golden Light. Ponta do Sol truly lives up to its name as one of the most beautiful sunset spots on the island of Madeira. The town’s position on the south coast makes it ideal for capturing the day’s final rays.
Dining Experience. Local restaurants serve fresh catches from the Atlantic islands’ waters. Try the black scabbardfish, a local delicacy unique to Madeira’s waters.
Must-Try Evening Activities:
- Watch sunset from the seafront promenade
- Sample local Madeira wine
- Try fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants
- Walk through the illuminated old town
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Transportation Options
Rental Car Benefits. Having your own vehicle offers unparalleled flexibility to explore remote areas, hidden villages, and scenic viewpoints that aren’t easily accessible by public transport. It’s often more cost-effective than multiple guided tours and allows for spontaneous stops.
Public Transportation. The new SIGA network (launched July 2024) provides unified transport across Madeira and Porto Santo. The system operates in four zones:
- Municipal: Within city limits
- Intermunicipal: Between municipalities
- Regional: Throughout both islands
- Aerobus: Airport service
| Transport Type | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single Bus Ticket | €1.95-7.00 | City exploration |
| 3-Day Bus Pass | €11.50 | Short stays |
| Car Rental | €30-40/day | Full island access |
Where to Stay
South Coast. The much drier south offers consistent weather, making it ideal for those seeking sunny days and easy access to Madeira’s main attractions. Funchal, the capital, is the perfect base for exploring the island, with its vibrant city life, proximity to Monte Palace, and excellent transport connections. Other great areas include Calheta and Ponta do Sol, known for their beautiful beaches and luxurious eco-lodges.
North Coast. Slightly cooler and wetter, the north coast is a haven for nature lovers with its lush Laurissilva Forest, dramatic cliffs, and natural swimming pools. Towns like São Vicente and Porto Moniz offer a peaceful retreat with charming accommodations and access to hiking trails, volcanic caves, and waterfalls. This side of the island is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Madeira’s raw, untamed beauty.
Best Time to Visit Madeira
Peak Season. June to September offers the warmest weather with temperatures reaching 25°C (77°F) and minimal rainfall. Perfect for outdoor activities and hiking.
Shoulder Season. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) provide comfortable temperatures around 20-24°C with moderate rainfall. These periods offer fewer crowds and pleasant conditions for exploring.
Winter Advantage. Even winter months (December-February) remain mild at 18°C (64°F) with about 5 hours of daily sunshine, making Madeira a year-round destination.
FAQ ❓
How many days are enough to explore Madeira island?
Three days in Madeira are enough to see the main highlights of the island including Funchal, Monte Palace, and major viewpoints. You can experience the best things to do in Madeira by focusing on one side of the island each day.
Should I rent a car or take guided tours in Madeira?
Renting a car provides maximum flexibility for exploring remote areas and taking spontaneous stops during your tour of the island. Guided tours are a good alternative if you’re not comfortable with driving Madeira’s winding roads and want to learn about local history.
Where is the best area to stay in Madeira for a short trip?
Staying in Funchal serves as an ideal base for exploring the island, offering easy access to Monte Palace and various attractions. The capital provides excellent connections to both the north and south coasts while offering plenty of dining and entertainment options.
What are the must-do activities for first-time visitors to Madeira?
Hiking the levadas and visiting Cabo Girão skywalk are essential experiences for any first-time visitor to Madeira. A cable car ride to visit Monte, exploring Caldeirão verde, and swimming in natural pools should be on every traveler’s itinerary.
When is the best time to visit Madeira?
Spring and fall offer ideal conditions for hiking in Madeira with comfortable temperatures and moderate rainfall. Summer provides the warmest weather for exploring the island but brings more tourists, while winter remains mild and suitable for most activities.
How difficult is hiking in Madeira for beginners?
Madeira offers various hiking options from easy levada walks to challenging mountain trails like Pico do Arieiro. Most popular trails are well-maintained and suitable for average fitness levels, with options available for every ability.
