Around The Island – Two Days Tour From 9am To 5pm (Each Day)

The Around The Island – Two Days Tour from Funchal, Portugal offers an efficient and comprehensive way to see Madeira’s most iconic sights. Priced at $71.10 per person, this small-group excursion combines stunning viewpoints, natural pools, historic villages, and mountain peaks into a well-structured two-day itinerary. The tour departs daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm, with pickup included and a max group size of 16, making it a comfortable and intimate experience.

With over 700 reviews rating the tour at 4.5 out of 5, it’s clear that most participants find it to be a valuable and engaging way to explore the island. The guides, like Paulo, Gloria, Renato, Lionel, and others, are praised for their knowledge, friendly approach, and entertaining commentary. While the itinerary covers around 70-80% of Madeira’s top sights, a key consideration is the busy schedule, which means some stops may feel hurried, but this allows visitors to see a diverse array of landscapes, towns, and natural wonders in just two days.

Key Points

• Two full days of guided sightseeing covering Madeira’s top landmarks
• $71.10 per person, offering excellent value for a comprehensive tour
• Small group size of up to 16 participants ensures more personal attention
• Stops include viewpoints, beaches, villages, mountain peaks, and natural pools
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor
• Hassle-free transfers from your accommodation make logistics simple

Madeira’s Must-See Landmarks in Just Two Days

This two-day tour provides a full overview of Madeira’s most acclaimed sites. Starting early and departing from Funchal, the tour hits key highlights such as Cabo Girao, the Porto Moniz natural pools, and the mountain peaks of Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo. The itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing without the need for detailed planning, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time.

The tour’s well-paced schedule means you visit many locations, with ample time at popular stops like Porto Moniz for lunch and a swim in the volcanic pools. The guides’ explanations help deepen understanding of each site’s history and natural features, adding richness to the experience.

From the Sea View at Cabo Girao to the Cliffside at Veu da Noiva

The trip kicks off with a visit to Cabo Girao, famous for its glass balcony and height of 580 meters, making it the highest cliff viewpoint in Europe. The spectacular views of the Atlantic and the dramatic drop below set a memorable tone for the tour. Although admission to the viewpoint isn’t included, the photo opportunities are plentiful.

Next, the group heads to Ribeira Brava, where a church from the 15th century invites a quick exploration of Madeira’s historic architecture. Continuing along the coast, the lush banana plantations of Madalena do Mar provide a photo-worthy landscape that highlights Madeira’s agricultural charm.

A highlight of the first day is the visit to Fonte do Bispo, at an altitude of 1300-1500 meters, offering panoramic views over the Laurissilva forest. The stop at Paúl de Serra introduces visitors to the levadas—narrow channels used for irrigation—while the scenic viewpoint enhances the appreciation for Madeira’s diverse terrain.

The seaside town of Porto Moniz becomes a focal point for lunch and relaxation. Known for its natural volcanic pools, Porto Moniz offers the chance to swim if weather permits. The view of the pools from the descent is especially impressive, showcasing Madeira’s geological marvels.

In the afternoon, a brief stop at Seixal Viewpoint reveals the Véu da Noiva waterfall, where water trickles down rocks sculpted over millennia. The picturesque village of São Vicente presents a charming 17th-century church before the tour heads back toward Funchal, finishing the day with a stop at Câmara de Lobos, a famous fishing village known for inspiring Winston Churchill’s paintings.

Exploring Madeira’s Eastern Coast & Mountain Highs

Day two begins with a visit to Cristo Rei in Garajau, a striking statue perched in a scenic location on Madeira’s east coast. Its landscape views are captivating, making it a must-see for those interested in iconic monuments and panoramic vistas.

Next, the tour visits Machico, the second-largest city on Madeira and the island’s first capital. This historic town offers a glimpse into Madeira’s early settlement history, with a 17th-century church and charming streets.

A trip to Ponta do Rosto at Ponta de São Lourenço reveals spectacular rock formations and vast ocean views, emphasizing the geological diversity of Madeira. The nature reserve is a distinct landscape from the rest of the island, with dramatic cliffs and clear waters that are perfect for photos.

The small village of Porto da Cruz showcases Madeira’s sugar cane and rum distilling heritage. The Engenhos do Norte distillery allows visitors to see traditional machinery and learn about Madeira’s sweet manufacturing history.

A visit to Faial brings the chance to see historic water mills and learn about settlement origins. The local agriculture thrives here, with a special focus on custard apples and the annual Festa da Anona.

The vibrant village of Santana is famous for its colorful triangular thatched houses—a symbol of Madeira’s rural charm. There’s ample time for lunch and exploring this quaint community.

The tour continues to Ribeiro Frio, a natural park offering leisurely trails, trout pools, and birdwatching opportunities amid laurel trees and endemic species. In the afternoon, the group visits Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1818 meters. The views from the summit are spectacular, with cloud cover creating a mystical scene and on clear days, views of Porto Santo and the south coast.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The meeting point is early at 8:30 am, with pickup included from your accommodation. The tour runs from 9 am to 5 pm on each day, with scheduled stops at famous viewpoints, villages, natural pools, and mountain summits. The group size of up to 16 ensures a more personalized experience and more attention from guides.

The admission costs for most stops are not included, such as Cabo Girao, but many attractions like Porto Moniz pools and Pico do Arieiro are free to visit. The itinerary may change depending on weather or logistical considerations, but prior updates are provided.

Participants are advised to dress for variable weather, especially when visiting mountain peaks and high-altitude viewpoints. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but comfortable footwear and layers are recommended. The small group size and hassle-free transfers make this a convenient way to see Madeira’s diverse landscapes without the stress of self-driving.

Final Thoughts on the Two-Day Madeira Tour

This guided two-day experience offers a rundown of Madeira’s highlights. It balances natural beauty, cultural spots, and mountain panoramas effectively. The value for money is high, with well-organized stops and knowledgeable guides making each day engaging.

While the tight schedule might feel rushed at times, it enables visitors to cover a lot of ground in limited time. The small group size creates a friendly atmosphere, and the positive reviews underscore the quality of guides and overall experience.

This tour is best suited for those who want to maximize their sightseeing with minimal hassle. It delivers a solid overview of Madeira’s most famous sights, making it a practical choice for first-time visitors or those with limited days on the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, but comfortable footwear and clothing for variable weather are recommended.

Does the tour include meals?
No, the tour does not include meals, but there are stops for lunch at Porto Moniz and Santana, and options are available for purchase.

Are there any hidden costs?
Most attractions are free to visit, but some viewpoints like Cabo Girao require an admission ticket which is not included in the price. Check in advance for specific costs.

Can I expect to be outdoors most of the time?
Yes, the tour involves outdoor stops at viewpoints, villages, and natural pools, so weather conditions can affect the experience.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves getting on and off the bus, walking at stops, and some hiking at natural parks and mountain peaks, so moderate mobility is recommended.