Trips and Adventures
Visit Madeira: Complete Guide to Explore the Island at Your Own Pace.
The famous 'Pearl of the Atlantic' is a natural paradise that enchants visitors from all over the world. Known for its stunning landscapes, mild climate, and typical gastronomy, we have prepared an itinerary to visit Madeira that will provide you with a unique experience.
3, 5, or 7 Days to Visit Madeira. Which Will You Choose?
Disembark on this island with majestic mountains waiting for you, valleys leading to the sea, golden and black sand beaches, or even natural pools. Here, the adventure is at your own pace, with the flexibility that only Xtracars can give you. Just choose the itinerary that best suits you. Shall we?
Visit Madeira in 3 Days.
Dia 1: Funchal and Surroundings.
Explore the centre of Funchal, visit the Old Town and the Mercado dos Lavradores. Take the cable car up to Monte and don't miss an unforgettable descent in a wicker toboggan. Afterwards, reserve an hour for the Botanical Garden and the CR7 Museum.
Day 2: Curral das Freiras and Câmara de Lobos.
The Eira do Serrado viewpoint is probably one of the most famous on the island and offers a spectacular view of Curral das Freiras. Then, head to Câmara de Lobos. Here you can discover the bay with several restaurants and taste the famous espetada in laurel skewers.
Day 3: Cabo Girão and West Coast.
The Cabo Girão viewpoint is a must-stop, especially for the more adventurous, as it is located on a glass platform at 580 meters altitude. Then head to Ribeira Brava and the picturesque village of Ponta do Sol. End the day with a walk on the Levada das 25 Fontes, which leads to impressive natural lagoons.
Visit Madeira in 5 Days.
Start by following the suggestions we gave you in the 3-day itinerary to visit Madeira. Then, add our new suggestions for two more memorable days in the Portuguese Hawaii.
Day 4: Porto Moniz and Seixal.
Head to Porto Moniz and enjoy the iconic natural volcanic pools – one of Madeira's highlights. Sometimes, you might even spot small crabs sharing the space. Then, make a stop at Seixal, where the black sand beach and waterfalls create a postcard-worthy scene.
Day 5: Santana and Pico Ruivo.
Take some photos next to the traditional triangular houses of Santana – easy to identify by their thatched roofs. Visit the Ribeiro Frio Forest Park and prepare for one of Madeira's most emblematic hiking trails: the ascent to Pico Ruivo. You can start at sunrise at Pico do Areeiro and follow the trail that connects the two peaks. Wear appropriate clothing – the wind is almost guaranteed!
Visit Madeira in 7 Days
Follow our 5-day itinerary to Madeira. Then, we have prepared two more incredible days for you to continue this adventure through the archipelago. Xtracars accompanies you with the best subscription cars.
Day 6: Machico and Ponta de São Lourenço.
Explore Machico, Madeira's first capital, where you can relax on the beach and learn more about the local history. Then, head for a walk along Ponta de São Lourenço, one of the island's most stunning areas. Bring your camera: the natural landscapes are breathtaking.
Day 7: Porto Santo.
Take the daily ferry from Funchal to the island of Porto Santo and be enchanted by its extensive golden sands, contrasting with the turquoise blue waters. Don't miss exploring the various viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the island.
The Flavours You Must Try When Visiting Madeira.
The island's geographical diversity is impressive. Funchal, for example, is a vibrant centre where history and modernity meet, with its colourful markets, lush gardens, and gastronomy that celebrates local flavours. And it is precisely in the flavours that Madeira also stands out.
What to Eat in Madeira.
Madeiran cuisine is rich, varied, and full of authentic flavours. During your visit to Madeira, try these typical dishes:
- Madeiran espetada: cubes of meat grilled on laurel skewers, usually accompanied by fried corn and bolo do caco.
- Black scabbardfish: prepared with banana and passion fruit sauce, in a unique and tasty combination.
- Limpets: cooked with lemon and butter, they are a highly appreciated local specialty.
- Prego no bolo do caco: grilled steak served on the traditional bolo do caco, often with lettuce, tomato, ham, and cheese.
- Picadinho: meat cut into small cubes, fried and seasoned with garlic and pepper, usually shared among several people.
Additionally, don't miss trying the honey cake and the island's tropical fruits.
What to Drink in Madeira.
During your visit, if you have the opportunity (and are not driving), try these typical Madeira drinks that are part of the local identity:
- Poncha: made with sugar cane brandy, honey, and lemon juice. It can be prepared with other fruit juices, such as orange or tangerine.
- Madeira wine: this wine is known worldwide and comes in various varieties, such as Malvasia, Boal, Verdelho, and Sercial.
- Coral: Madeira's local beer, known for its aromatic flavour. There is also a cider version.
- Nikita: a mixture of beer, vanilla ice cream, and pineapple juice.
- Pé-de-Cabra: a drink made with red wine, dark beer, sugar, and lemon peel.
Prepare to Visit Madeira with Your Xtracars.
Besides the natural beauty, Madeira is famous for its cultural traditions. Popular festivals, such as the Flower Festival, handicrafts, and folk music, are some of the island's other attractions. Regardless of the length of your stay – whether it's a weekend getaway or an extended stay – your Xtracars has the ideal solution. With flexible subscriptions from 1 to 12 months, drive through Madeira with total freedom and comfort.
