Seven days is the sweet spot for a Madeira trip. It gives you enough time to explore Funchal, hike the best levadas, discover hidden villages, and still have a full day for adrenaline-pumping adventure activities in Porto Moniz. This day-by-day itinerary covers everything you should see, do, and eat during one unforgettable week on the island.
Day 1: Arrive and Explore Funchal
Start your Madeira week in the island's capital. After checking into your hotel, head to the Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market) to taste passion fruit, sample poncha, and soak in the colours of tropical produce.
In the afternoon, wander through the Old Town (Zona Velha) with its famous painted doors, street art, and waterfront cafes. End the day with dinner at a restaurant along the marina, trying the classic espada com banana (black scabbard fish with banana) and freshly baked bolo do caco garlic bread.
If you arrive early enough, ride the Monte cable car for panoramic views over Funchal bay and ride back down in a traditional wicker toboggan.
Day 2: Funchal Gardens and Wine Tasting
Madeira is an island of gardens. Spend the morning at the Botanical Garden, which terraces down a hillside with spectacular views and over 2,000 plant species. Then visit the nearby Monte Palace Tropical Garden for its azulejo tile collections and Japanese-inspired landscapes.
In the afternoon, explore the Blandy's Wine Lodge in the centre of Funchal for a guided tour and tasting of Madeira wine — one of the world's oldest and most celebrated fortified wines. The dry Sercial and rich Malmsey are both worth trying.
Day 3: Levada das 25 Fontes and Rabaçal
Today is your first big hiking day. Drive to the Paul da Serra plateau and take the shuttle down to the Rabaçal trailhead. Walk the Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6) through ancient laurel forest to a stunning amphitheatre of 25 cascading springs. On the way back, take the short detour to the Risco Waterfall — a 100-metre vertical drop into a mossy gorge.
Pack a picnic lunch and eat it at the Rabaçal shelter. The round trip takes about 4 hours including the Risco detour.
Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring a headlamp — the trail passes through a short tunnel. Check our what to wear guide for full preparation tips.
Day 4: Porto Moniz Adventure Day
This is the highlight of your week. Drive to Porto Moniz via the scenic north coast road through Sao Vicente, stopping at viewpoints along the way.
Once in Porto Moniz, head straight to Adrenaline Adventures for the experience of a lifetime. Fly over the coastal valley on the 1.6 km zipline at speeds up to 110 km/h, with the Atlantic Ocean glittering far below. Then take on the giant swing, launching from a cliff edge 250 metres above the sea. Both activities include a UTV mountain transfer to the platforms, which is an adventure in itself.
After your adrenaline fix, cool off in the famous volcanic natural pools carved by ancient lava flows. End the day with fresh grilled fish at a harbourside restaurant while watching the sunset.
Book Your Zipline and Giant SwingDay 5: Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
Madeira's most iconic hike connects the island's third-highest peak to its very highest along a dramatic mountain ridge. Drive to Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m) before sunrise for one of the most spectacular dawns in Europe — watching the sun rise above a sea of clouds.
The trail to Pico Ruivo (1,862 m) is 7 km one way and takes 4 to 5 hours. It weaves along narrow ridgelines, through tunnels, and past vertigo-inducing viewpoints. On clear days, you can see Porto Santo island in the distance.
Start as early as possible — ideally arriving at Pico do Arieiro by 7:00 AM. The morning light is magical, crowds are thinner, and clouds tend to build in the afternoon. Bring warm layers; temperatures at this altitude can be 10 degrees cooler than at sea level.
Day 6: East Coast — Ponta de Sao Lourenco and Santana
Drive to the eastern tip of Madeira and hike the Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco (PR8). This 4 km trail runs along a windswept peninsula with red rock formations, crashing waves on both sides, and a landscape that feels completely different from the rest of the island.
After the hike, drive north to Santana to see the traditional A-frame thatched houses (casas de colmo) and visit the Madeira Theme Park if you are travelling with children. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant and try espetada — beef skewers grilled on laurel wood sticks.
In the afternoon, take a short walk along the Levada do Caldeirão Verde from Queimadas if time allows, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the north coast.
Day 7: South Coast, Câmara de Lobos and Departure
On your final day, explore the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, famously painted by Winston Churchill. Walk along the harbour, visit the viewpoint at Cabo Girão — one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe with a glass-floored skywalk — and enjoy a final poncha at a clifftop bar.
If time permits, stop at the golden-sand beach in Calheta for a last swim, or explore the traditional village of Curral das Freiras nestled deep in a volcanic crater.
Last Meal Recommendations
For your final dinner, return to Funchal and book a table at a restaurant with harbour views. Order the picado (cubed steak with chips and fried corn), a full spread of lapas (limpets grilled with garlic butter), and finish with a glass of aged Madeira wine.
Practical Tips for Your Week
Getting Around
A rental car is the best way to explore Madeira. Roads are well-maintained, though mountain roads can be narrow and winding. Budget around 30 to 40 euros per day for car hire. Parking is free in most villages outside Funchal.
Where to Stay
Funchal is the most convenient base for the first couple of nights. For the middle of the week, consider staying one night in Porto Moniz or Sao Vicente to enjoy the north coast at a slower pace.
Budget
Expect to spend roughly 80 to 120 euros per person per day for mid-range accommodation, meals, car hire, and activities. Adventure activities at Adrenaline Adventures are excellent value for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Best Time to Visit
Madeira is a year-round destination. May to October offers the driest weather, but spring (March to May) brings stunning wildflower displays and fewer crowds.
This itinerary is flexible. Swap days around based on weather forecasts — save the mountain hikes for the clearest days and explore towns or gardens when clouds roll in.
Seven days in Madeira will leave you with sunburnt noses, tired legs, and a camera full of images you will not believe are real. From the clouds above Pico Ruivo to the rush of a 110 km/h zipline over Porto Moniz, this island delivers unforgettable moments every single day.
Contact Us to Plan Your Adventure DayFrequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need in Madeira?
5-7 days covers the main highlights. 10-14 days lets you explore at a relaxed pace including Porto Santo.
What is the daily budget for Madeira?
Budget travellers: €40-60/day. Mid-range: €80-120/day. Luxury: €200+/day. These include accommodation, food, and activities.
Is one week enough for Madeira?
Yes, one week is perfect for a first visit. You can cover Funchal, Porto Moniz, the east coast, and several levada walks.
Should I rent a car?
Highly recommended for exploring beyond Funchal. Rental cars start from €15-20/day. The island is small — you can drive coast to coast in 1.5 hours.
Read Also
- How to Get to Porto Moniz — All transport options for your Day 4 adventure.
- Best Hikes and Levadas in Madeira — Detailed guides for every trail in this itinerary.
- Things to Do in Madeira — Even more ideas if you extend your trip.
- Top Instagram Spots in Madeira — Where to capture the best photos during your week.
