7 days itinerary of Madeira

🗺️ Ultimate 7-Day Madeira, Portugal Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide to the Best Things to See & Do

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? This perfect 7-day Madeira itinerary is packed with epic views, hidden gems, and all the best spots on the island. From hiking through lush forests to relaxing by black sand beaches, you’ll get to experience everything that makes Madeira so special.

👇 Looking for more Madeira travel tips? Scroll down for more amazing guides! 👇

😎 Day 1: Arrival in Madeira-Funchal

Welcome to Madeira!  Upon arriving at the airport on Day 1, your transfer will take you to pick up your rental car in Madeira. Renting a car is the best way to explore the island, offering you the freedom to visit all the must-see spots in Madeira at your own pace. After picking up your car, head to your accommodation to settle in and unpack. Take some time to relax and soak in the island vibe!

Next, head out to explore the charming old town of 📍Funchal, with its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant local culture. Wander through the markets, check out the historic architecture, and maybe stop for a coffee or a refreshing drink at one of the cute cafes along the way.

If you have a bit of extra time, make sure to visit 📍Monte Palace Tropical Garden. It’s a short drive from the city and offers lush gardens, exotic plants, and breathtaking panoramic views of Funchal and the surrounding coast. It’s the perfect spot to kick off your Madeira adventure!

As evening rolls in, enjoy dinner at one of Funchal's fantastic local restaurants. From fresh seafood to traditional Madeiran dishes, you’ll find something to satisfy every craving.

📖 Read: Best restaurants in Madeira

After a full day of exploring, head back to your accommodation to relax and recharge. You’ve got a week of amazing adventures ahead!

😴 Sleep in Funchal

😎 Day 2: Madeira's South Coast

Start your day by diving into the local culture at 📍Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market) in Funchal. Here, you’ll find fresh produce, colorful flowers, and unique Madeiran treats. It’s the perfect place to grab a snack, chat with friendly vendors, and experience the island’s lively market scene.

Next, head to 📍 Cabo Girao  for some of the most jaw-dropping views you’ll find on the island. Stand on the glass skywalk and take in panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the south coast cliffs. There’s a small 2€ entry fee to access the viewpoint, but the views are absolutely worth it! Cabo Girão is a must-see and can’t be missed in your Madeira itinerary!

📖 Read: Top 10 things to see in Madeira

Next, tackle the 📍 Levada do Moinho. This 4-hour hike will take you through beautiful forests, along water channels, and to some stunning viewpoints. Don’t worry – I’ve covered everything you need to know about this trail in the Best Trekkings section of this guide, so you’ll be well-prepared for the adventure.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, take a leisurely stroll through📍 Ponta do Sol.  This charming seaside town is perfect for relaxing by the ocean, taking in the stunning views, and enjoying the peaceful vibe of Madeira’s southwest coast.

On the way to Porto Moniz, don't miss the 📍 Waterfall of the Angels that you can find along the street.

For more breathtaking views, be sure to stop at 📍Miradouro Farol da Ponta do Pargo, a lighthouse perched on top of a cliff with sweeping vistas of the ocean and surrounding coastline. It’s one of the best spots on the island for panoramic shots!

😴 Sleep in Porto Moniz

WHY 🤔? By the time you reach Porto Moniz, you’ll have explored some of the most scenic spots on the south coast of Madeira. For a strategic one-night stay, Porto Moniz is perfect as it places you in the ideal spot to explore the entire west side of the island without wasting time in the car. You'll save at least 3 hours of driving, giving you more time to enjoy the island’s beauty.

😎 Day 3: Madeira's West Coast

Kick off your day by having a swim in one of the natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz. You can choose between paid and free ones, but I'd recommend to start with the free option 📍 here, where you can enjoy crystal-clear water surrounded by stunning volcanic rocks.

After your swim, take a scenic ride on the 📍Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz, which will take you down to a beautiful beach. The views from the cable car are incredible, and you’ll have a unique perspective of the coastline and the rugged cliffs.

Then, make your way to the famous 📍 Fanal Forest, a magical place that feels straight out of a fairytale. Situated at 1420 meters above sea level, the forest is known for its misty atmosphere and ancient trees.

Be sure to bring a jacket, as the climate here can be much cooler than at sea level. Fanal Forest is one of the top Madeira attractions and offers a unique experience for nature lovers and hikers exploring Madeira's hidden gems.

After exploring the forest, head to 📍 Praia de Seixal to relax on the black sand beach. Don’t forget to visit this hidden gem in Madeira for a truly relaxing experience in one of Madeira's most beautiful beaches.

On your way to your last accommodation in Funchal, don't forget to stop at the 📍Véu da Noiva viewpoint  for breathtaking views of waterfalls and the lush landscape below. While you're in the area, take a quick detour to check out the traditional houses in Santana. These colorful, triangular cottages are iconic and perfect for a photo op!

After a full day of exploration, head back to Funchal for a relaxing evening.

😴 Sleep in Funchal

😎 Day 4: Madeira's East Coast

Get ready for one of Madeira's most thrilling hikes – the 📍 PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço! This coastal trail is a true gem, offering stunning views of the island’s rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

The hike takes about 4 hours, so make sure to wear comfy shoes and bring plenty of water. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of both the south and north sides of the island, making it one of the best hikes on Madeira!

📖 Read: Madeira best hikes

If you’ve still got some energy left after conquering Ponta de São Lourenço, why not take a stroll along the Vereda do Larano coastal path? You don’t have to complete the whole trail, but the section you walk will offer amazing coastal views and let you soak in more of Madeira’s natural beauty. It’s the perfect way to continue your day if you’re up for a little extra adventure.

Once you’ve had your fill of stunning landscapes and outdoor exploration, head back to Funchal for a well-deserved break. Chill out, enjoy the city, and maybe grab a bite to eat at one of the delicious local restaurants.

😴 Sleep in Funchal

😎 Day 5: Vereda do Areeiro Hike in Madeira

Wake up early and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Madeira – the legendary📍Pico do Areeiro  hike awaits! Don’t miss this iconic trek, often considered the top hiking trail in Madeira!

Known as one of the island's most breathtaking trails, this hike will take you through the heart of Madeira’s rugged mountains. It’s a challenging hike, so prepare yourself for an action-packed day. The round trip will take about 6-8 hours, so make sure you’re geared up with proper hiking boots, enough water, snacks, and a sense of adventure!

As you make your way up, you'll be treated to some of the most spectacular views in Madeira. From towering peaks to deep valleys, the trail offers ever-changing scenery that will leave you in awe. The path can be steep and rocky in places, but the reward is well worth the effort. Don’t forget to look out for the famous stairs along the way – they’re a key part of the trail and will guide you back on your return journey.

Though this hike is physically demanding, every step you take will lead you to more incredible views. The panoramic vistas of the island's dramatic landscapes are simply unforgettable. The clouds, the peaks, and the lush greenery will make you feel like you're walking through a dream.

After completing the hike, head back to Funchal for some well-deserved rest. You’ve just experienced one of Madeira's most famous and challenging hikes, so take the time to relax, recharge, and reflect on the stunning landscapes you’ve just explored.

😴 Sleep in Funchal

😎 Day 6: Caldeirão Verde Hike in Madeira

For our final hike, I suggest heading to 📍 Caldeirão Verde.

This trail is a bit easier than some of the others, but don’t let that fool you – it's still a pretty long journey! Plan for around 6 hours to complete the round trip, so make sure you're prepared with plenty of water, snacks, and a comfortable pair of hiking shoes. Caldeirão Verde is one of Madeira's most scenic hikes, offering lush green landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and incredible views along the way.

The hike is relatively gentle, but the path does wind its way through dense vegetation, offering a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere throughout. The highlight of the hike is when you reach the stunning Caldeirão Verde waterfall – it’s a breathtaking sight that’s worth every step of the journey.

Once you've completed the hike, don't miss the chance to visit the 📍 Balcoes viewpoint. Here, you can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while feeding some cute little birds.

After a day filled with natural beauty and unforgettable moments, head back to Funchal to unwind and reflect on your incredible adventures in Madeira.

😴 Sleep in Funchal

😎 Day 7: Funchal Fun and Farewell-Goodby Madeira

For your final day in Madeira, get ready to experience one of the island's most unique traditions – the 📍Monte Toboggan Ride. This fun and thrilling ride down the steep streets of Funchal is unlike anything you’ve ever done before. You'll sit in a traditional wicker sled, guided by two expert drivers who steer you as you zoom through the streets, taking in stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.

The Monte Toboggan Ride is a must-do experience in Madeira, offering a thrilling and unforgettable way to explore Funchal’s charming streets. It’s a fun way to end your trip with a bit of adventure, a touch of Madeira culture, and plenty of laughs! Make sure to include this unique activity in your Madeira itinerary for a memorable finish to your journey.

After your ride, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore Funchal at your own pace. Whether you want to visit a museum, grab a coffee at a local café, or stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens, the day is yours to enjoy.

😴 Sleep in Funchal