3 Days in Madeira: Itinerary

Only have three days in Madeira? You can still see the highlights: Funchal, a mountain sunrise, a levada walk and the dramatic west coast. Here’s a day-by-day 3-day Madeira itinerary, based in Funchal.

Quick answer: Day 1: Funchal, with the market, Old Town, the Monte cable car and toboggan. Day 2: sunrise at Pico do Arieiro, the PR1 hike or a levada, then Santana. Day 3: the west, with Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, Porto Moniz and Fanal. Book trail slots in advance.

Day 1: Funchal

• Morning: Mercado dos Lavradores and the Old Town’s painted doors.
• Midday: the cable car to Monte, the Tropical Garden and the toboggan ride. See the Monte toboggan.
• Afternoon: a Madeira wine tasting. See the Madeira wine guide.
• Evening: espetada and poncha.

See things to do in Funchal.

Day 2: Mountains and the north

• Sunrise: Pico do Arieiro above the clouds.
• Hike: PR1 to Pico Ruivo (one-way, so arrange a pickup) or an easier levada. See PR1 and levada walks.
• Afternoon: Santana’s triangular houses and the north coast. See Santana.

Day 3: The west

• Morning: Câmara de Lobos and Cabo Girão. See Câmara de Lobos and Cabo Girão.
• Afternoon: swim in the Porto Moniz lava pools and walk in the Fanal forest. See Porto Moniz.

Tips

• Car or tours: a car gives flexibility, but mountain roads are steep. Tours are easier. See the best Madeira tours.
• Weather: swap days around for clear mountain weather.
• Where to stay: Funchal is the best base for a short trip. See where to stay in Madeira.

More: the full Madeira itinerary and the best time to visit Madeira.

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