Funchal : Sunday Market – South East Tour

Discover the Charm of Madeira’s Southeast with the Sunday Market – South East Tour

This 4-hour tour in Madeira offers a well-rounded look at the island’s scenic southeastern coast, priced at $28.91 per person. Starting with hotel pickup and round-trip transport from Funchal, the tour takes you through picturesque villages, stunning viewpoints, and vibrant local markets. The tour is ideal for those who appreciate small group experiences and want to explore at a relaxed pace. While it does include a stop at the Santo da Serra flea market, some reviews suggest that certain stops might be less appealing, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and culture.

The itinerary features several highlights, including magnificent coast views, scenic stops, and free time to shop. Expect to visit several key locations with professional guidance in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Be aware that the initial stops are brief, around 15 minutes each, making it a quick but enriching overview of Madeira’s southeast.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $28.91 for a 4-hour guided tour
• Hotel pickup and round-trip transport included from Funchal
• Visit Santa Cruz, Machico Bay, and Ponta de São Lourenço for scenic views
• Free time at Santo da Serra flea market to shop local produce and crafts
• Small group size, with a maximum of 18 travelers for personalized attention
• Stops include viewpoints, markets, and coastal landmarks; some reviews mention brief stops

Madeira’s Southeast Coast: Scenic Views and Coastal Highlights

The tour begins with pickup in Funchal, taking travelers eastward along the coast. The first stop is at Miradouro do Cristo Rei do Garajau, where the large Christ statue provides a stunning backdrop for views over Funchal and the cruise ships docked in the harbor. Though admission is not included, the viewpoint offers a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the landscape.

Next, the group heads to Santa Cruz, a charming town next to the airport. Here, visitors can enjoy a short visit to the municipal market, famous for its fresh fish, colorful fruits, and vegetables. The sixteenth-century church adds historical charm, and the pebbled beach lined with palms creates a relaxed seaside atmosphere. The stop lasts about 15 minutes, giving just enough time for a quick stroll and market viewing.

Exploring Machico Bay and Its Water-Filled Valley

From Santa Cruz, the tour moves to Praia de Machico, where the bay holds historical significance as the landing site of Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira, the original explorers of Madeira. The valley here appears as a balcony overlooking the sea and mountains, offering impressive views of the coastline and Pico do Facho, a 320-meter-high peak with a historic beacon. The stop lasts about 15 minutes, allowing visitors to appreciate the landscape and learn about Machico’s past importance in sugar cane production.

Ponta de São Lourenço: Madeira’s Easternmost Point

One of the tour’s key highlights is Ponta de São Lourenço, the eastern tip of Madeira. The area is famous for its unique rock formations and distinctive vegetation like the ice plant. From this viewpoint, travelers can see both the north and south coasts simultaneously, along with the distant Porto Santo island on clear days. The 15-minute stop here offers scenic vistas and a chance to observe the rugged coastline that defines Madeira’s natural beauty.

Visiting Santo da Serra and Its Vibrant Flea Market

The tour continues toward Santo da Serra, a village known for its luxurious villas and the PGA Tour of Madeira held at its golf course. The cobbled path leads to Quinta da Serra, a historic mansion once owned by the Blandy family, now state-owned.

On Sunday mornings, the Santo da Serra flea market is a major attraction, featuring local produce, crafts, and antiques. Visitors get about an hour to browse the stalls, making it a perfect opportunity to pick up fresh fruit, vegetables, or souvenirs. The surrounding forests and farmland add to the village’s peaceful, rural atmosphere.

Practical Details: Tour Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs from Funchal at 9:00 am, with hotel pickup included for accommodations within the city. The group size is limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience, especially at popular stops like the flea market. The air-conditioned vehicle transports guests smoothly between sites, with round-trip transfer included.

For those staying outside Funchal or arriving by cruise ship, additional fees apply if pickup is required from the cruise port. The tour is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and most participants able to join.

Significance of the Stops: Culture, Views, and Markets

Each location on the tour offers something distinct. The Garajau viewpoint combines scenic coastlines with cultural symbols like the Christ statue. The Santa Cruz market immerses visitors in local flavors and crafts, despite some caution advised by reviews about fruit stall practices. Machico Bay offers historical context and breathtaking vistas, especially at Pico do Facho.

The Ponta de São Lourenço area stands out for its rock formations and panoramic views, making it a favorite for photography and nature appreciation. The Santo da Serra flea market gives a glimpse of local life, with fresh produce and handmade goods as highlights.

Value and Potential Limitations

At less than $30, the South East Tour offers solid value for those interested in a half-day overview of Madeira’s southeast. The small group size, hotel pickup, and variety of stops make it a convenient, manageable trip. However, some reviews mention that certain stops, like the market or viewpoints, can be brief, and others warn about less appealing stops like the market called “dump”—though this appears to be an outlier and may refer to a different experience altogether.

While the tour does not include long hikes or strenuous activity, expect short walks and standing at each stop. The timing is paced to include multiple locations but might feel rushed for those wanting a deeper exploration.

The Experience of the Guides and Overall Atmosphere

Guide quality is praised in some reviews, with mentions of knowledgeable, friendly guides like George, who add value through local insights and engaging commentary. The small group setting fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention.

The scenic viewpoints, lively markets, and local culture make this tour suitable for travelers who prefer a balanced mix of sightseeing and culture over lengthy excursions. The easy pacing and comfortable transport are ideal for visitors seeking a laid-back experience.

Who Should Book the Sunday Market – South East Tour?

This tour appeals most to those who want a quick, well-organized introduction to Madeira’s southeastern coast. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time, seeking beautiful vistas, local markets, and historical landmarks without strenuous activity. Travelers who appreciate small group tours and personalized service will find this experience fulfilling.

However, those expecting a detailed exploration or in-depth cultural experience might find the brief stops a bit limiting. Also, shoppers interested in extensive market browsing should note that the flea market visit lasts about an hour.

Madeira’s Southeast Coast: A Scenic, Cultural Snapshot

In just a few hours, this South East Tour showcases Madeira’s natural beauty, history, and local life. The views from Miradouro do Cristo Rei and Ponta de São Lourenço are unforgettable, capturing the rugged charm of the island’s coast. The markets provide a taste of local flavors, even if brief, and the village of Santo da Serra offers a peaceful retreat with a touch of luxury.

While some stops may feel rushed, the overall experience delivers a taste of Madeira’s diverse landscape and culture at an accessible price point. It’s a solid choice for a half-day sightseeing adventure if you value scenic viewpoints, local markets, and small-group comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if your accommodation is in Funchal. Pickup from the cruise ship port requires an additional fee of 5 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Garajau viewpoint, Santa Cruz municipal market, Praia de Machico, Ponta de São Lourenço, and the Santo da Serra flea market.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though physical mobility should be considered for the brief walks and standing at viewpoints.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, the tour does not include meals or drinks, but there are plenty of opportunities to purchase local produce or snacks during stops.

What should I be aware of at the markets?
Exercise caution when buying fruit at the Santa Cruz market, as some stallholders may try to increase weights or choices. It’s best to be specific about what you want.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
Changes less than 24 hours before the scheduled start are not accepted, and the tour is designed as a set program with limited flexibility.

How many people typically join this tour?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is admission to viewpoints or landmarks included?
No, admission fees are not included for stops like Garajau’s Christ statue; most scenic viewpoints are free to access.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those seeking a quick overview of Madeira’s scenic and cultural highlights at an affordable price, with a small group atmosphere and knowledgeable guide.