Top Madeira Half-day Tours

The Valley of the Nuns (Curral da Freiras) might be one of the coolest places you can visit in all of Portugal—and this tour makes it easy to explore the area. Not only is it a village built on the crater of an extinct volcano, but it was once a place where nuns would hide when pirates attacked the city of Funchal. Plus, during this tour, you’ll stop by the fishing village, Câmara de Lobos, and try a traditional Madeira drink.

See the highlights of Madeira in a short space of time, and avoid the crowds on public transport with this private half-day tour. The trip is a great way to learn about the culture of the island from a local, while ticking off interesting sights—such as the Madeira Botanical Garden, the Monte toboggan run, Cabo Girao viewpoint, and Baia de Camara de Lobos fishing village.

Taste your way around Madeira on this small-group food and walking tour. You won’t have to worry about language barriers as you’ll have a guide to translate and order for you. Save time researching and planning your trip by having a guide to show you around. Make the most of your day by visiting multiple places and tasting local specialties. All food and drink is included.

Welcome to Madeira's Ultimate Self-Guided Foodie Adventure! The most flexible and tasty foodie tour ever, you can start when you want, where you want, are you on a cruise? that's fine we can tweak the timings to suit you, are you doing another tour? that's ok we can start later. As the heart of Madeira's largest foodie community (check out Madeira Foodies on Facebook or instagram), we've poured our passion and local expertise into crafting the ultimate self-guided digital tour. Forget rigid schedules and feeling rushed – this experience is all about savoring the island's culinary delights at your own pace. We've meticulously handpicked 5 of the best independent eateries and local businesses, from charming coffee shops to authentic tasca taverns, the oldest bakery and other gems, where you can indulge in exquisite coffee, fine wines, delicious tapas, and of course, Poncha. Explore, taste, and discover the true flavors of Madeira on your own terms.

Embark on a guided adventure of the west side of Madeira that helps you uncover beautiful scenery, places that locals love, and lots of surprises along the way too. Exploring the island with a guide helps you access off the beaten path locations that you might not find alone. It also means you don’t have to worry about navigating or hiring a vehicle. Highlights along the way include Cabo Girao viewpoint, Ribeira Brava Beach, and Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools.

Its an early start but so worth the effort. Imagine Starting the day with a spectacular Sunrise from the 3rd highest peak of Madeira, Pico do Arieiro. Due to the late fires the full walk is not possible, but we don´t want you to miss out on the possibility to visit the 3rd highest peak. After the sunrise we go to 2 viewpoints along part of the walk where its still possible to do a 2.4 km long walk (return) After finishing we will drive you to a special comforting place for a warm drink

Check out the center of Madeira Island, where you'll find the Valley of the Nuns. This is a half day small group tour, that runs twice weekly at 9:30am. You’ll stop at Miradouro Pico Dos Barcelos for a wonderful view of Funchal, and later at Eira do Serrado viewpoint for some gorgeous surrounding nature. You'll then spend time in the Valley of the Nuns with layers of white clouds among the mountain peaks.

Skip the usual sightseeing experience for this private tuk-tuk tour in Funchal. Travel around in a fun, convenient tuk-tuk—a three-wheeled, motorcycle taxi—while exploring Funchal and the Monte Palace. Start at the Old Town of Funchal, pass the Church of Our Lady of the Mount, and spend 1-2 hours in the Monte Palace Madeira gardens. Finish your tour by taking a ride on the toboggan wicker basket ride down the hill back to Funchal.

Pico do Arieiro is the third-highest peak in Madeira, and offers spectacular views—especially at sunset. Enjoy an easier way to visit, and give yourself the best chance of admiring the postcard-worthy sunset, on this half-day tour. With round-trip transit from several areas, including Funchal, getting there is made simple. As a bonus, you can choose to extend the experience with a self-led hike to the Stairway to Heaven viewpoint.

This half-day adventure introduces you to an unusual form of transport that originated in the early 19th century—wicker sledges known as the Monte Toboggans. There’s no need to go to a meeting place, as door-to-door hotel transfers are included. After meeting your guide, see local sights—such as the Church of Our Lady of the Mount. Then, enjoy a thrilling toboggan ride in Monte.

Start your day above the clouds with a magical Pico do Arieiro sunrise tour. After an early hotel pickup, head to the viewpoint of one of Madeira’s highest points for panoramic views at dawn. For a more complete morning experience, upgrade to the premium option to enjoy a traditional breakfast in the open air before a short levada walk through Paradise Valley (when conditions allow). Note: this is not the PR1 Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike; if conditions are not favorable, an alternative sunrise viewpoint is used.

Hop aboard the “Santa Maria de Colombo,” a copy of Christopher Columbus’ signature boat, for a sail around Madeira’s southern coast. A trip that’s sure to appeal to adults and kids alike, the experience puts a historic spin on a classic boat tour, and includes the chance to see dolphins and whales, too.

Venture off-road to explore the rugged mountains and rural villages of Madeira, without having to worry about driving, on this small-group safari from Funchal. Travel around in an open-top safari vehicle, take in the views from Boca dos Namorados, and pass through traditional villages such as Camara de Lobos, and visit the famous glass walkway at Girao Cape that towers 1,970 feet (600 meters) above the sea.

Maximize time in Madeira with a half-day sightseeing tour complete with a visit to a Sunday market. Choose between two meeting points in the center of Funchal City and get picked up by a minibus. Visit the traditional market in Santa da Serra and browse through crafts, souvenirs, and food at your leisure. See other landmarks including a public park and the Cristo Rei statue during the tour.

It can be difficult to navigate the unmarked roads, and coastal paths in rugged Madeira—so avoid getting lost by going on a guided walk. You’ll visit Ponta de São Lourenço, and your experience will be enriched by having a guide to point out native vegetation and wildlife, that you might miss if you were alone. See protected seabirds, and access incredible views of the coast too.

This half-day Jeep tour offers an unforgettable mix of adventure and stunning scenery. Discover Madeira’s dramatic mountain landscapes from a unique perspective, combined with one of the island’s top adrenaline experiences. The journey begins in the charming coastal village of Ponta do Sol, famous for its traditional atmosphere, banana plantations, and the sunniest climate on the island. From there, the Jeep climbs an old “royal path,” a historic mountain road once used before modern tunnels existed, revealing breathtaking panoramic views. On clear days, you may even rise above the clouds. The highlight of the tour is Madeira’s ultimate adrenaline zone, where you can choose between two thrilling activities (not included in the base price): the Zipline, flying across a deep valley at speeds of up to 110 km/h from 320 meters high, or the Giant Swing, suspended off a cliff with a 250-meter drop below, and we have 5 por cent of discount in their tickets.

Embark on an adventure through Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes, starting in the Ecological Park of Funchal, surrounded by lush greenery and diverse terrain. The trail leads to Poço da Neve, offering unique views over Funchal harbor. Continue along the PR3 Vereda do Burro trail to the majestic Pico do Areeiro, the island’s third-highest peak. From here, the path guides you to the stunning Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, where you’ll witness Madeira’s rugged beauty. Then, head to Pedra Rija viewpoint, another breathtaking stop. Next, tackle the challenging yet rewarding “Stairway to Heaven,” where the ascent promises awe-inspiring vistas. After conquering this iconic climb, return to Pico do Areeiro to complete your hike. This route is perfect for seasoned hikers and nature lovers, offering some of the most spectacular views Madeira has to offer. Experience the island's wilderness and let it captivate your soul!

Enjoy a stress-free all-inclusive boat trip from start to finish with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Step aboard and settle into a comfortable spot in the sun or shade as you cruise across the waters. Feel the ocean breeze, listen to the waves, and take in the stunning coastal views with unlimited drinks available throughout the trip. While cruising close to the coastline, enjoy onboard commentary about famous tourist spots, local curiosities, and interesting facts about the area along the way. Make a stop at the beautiful Calhau da Lapa, a picturesque spot perfect for swimming and snorkeling surrounded by dramatic cliffs and natural scenery. Explore the underwater world using the provided snorkeling mask and snorkel before your swim. After your swim, use the onboard small shower head to rinse off the saltwater before relaxing back on deck. Continue the experience with a freshly prepared buffet lunch featuring chicken, pork, and tuna fish, with sides of rice, potatoes, and salad, along with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and refreshments all included. Finish your meal with dessert and coffee while relaxing at sea and soaking up the views. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, eating, drinking, and unwinding on the water before returning comfortably to your hotel.

See the highlights of Madeira without the crowds on this guided half-day tour. In a small group of no more than eight people, visit such sites as Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado. At Monte, you can embark upon a toboganning adventure, and in Curral das Freiras you have the a chance to try a traditional chestnut cake and ginja liqueur.

Enjoy an easy way to summit one of Madeira’s tallest peaks—and discover what many describe as the island’s best sunrise view—on this private tour of Pico do Areeiro. Early in the morning, meet your driver directly at your hotel and drive to the top of the mountain, with stops at scenic villages en route. After admiring the view, you’ll enjoy a brief hike through Laurisilva forests and stop at a local bakery.

Enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty and renowned wine on a half-day off-road adventure. After a convenient hotel pickup in Funchal or Caniço, travel by 4x4 to picturesque sites like the soaring cliffs of Cabo Girão and the vineyards of Sao Vicente. Learn about local wine customs and production from a local winemaker, and sample white, red, and rosé varieties.

See the sun set over the Atlantic on this catamaran cruise from Funchal. Enhance the experience with live commentary on board. You may even get the chance to see local marine life such as dolphins or whales during the cruise. Booking your ticket ahead of time ensures you won't miss out because of a sold-out cruise.

On this tour you will discover the most fascinating places on Madeira Island! With the help of our guide and our powerful e-bikes combine physical activity with the pleasure of the island's natural beauty!