If you only have a few days on Madeira, don’t worry—you can still experience some of the island’s best highlights without rushing. This 3-day Madeira itinerary combines breathtaking hikes, peaceful beaches, mystical forests, and authentic local food, giving you a taste of everything Madeira has to offer.
Note: this itinerary requires a car to get around and works best when based in Funchal. It’s designed for an average fitness level and covers both touristic must-sees as well as local spots and hidden gems. Double check opening hours before going and always respect official warnings and signs. Do you want a longer stay or a more personalized plan for your trip? I create custom Madeira itineraries from 2 to 14 days—designed just for you! Simply fill out this form and get your personalized itinerary for only €5 per day.
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Day 1: Coastal Hike, Black Sand Beach & Sunset Above the Clouds
Morning – Coastal Hike in the East
Start your Madeira itinerary heading east. Grab a delicious breakfast in the charming small town of Santa Cruz at Pimpinelas Café (open Monday – Friday).
Then it’s time to lace up your shoes for one of Madeira’s most iconic hikes: the PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço. This was my very first hike I ever did on Madeira! I have done it countless times since but it still holds a very special place in my heart. This coastal trail offers sweeping ocean views and a dry, volcanic landscape unique to the island. It’s about 7 km round trip with ~300 m elevation gain and takes 3–4 hours. Don’t forget to pay the €3 entry fee via the Simplifica portal. Read more about the trail in my blog post here.
Afternoon – Black Sand Beach Break
After your hike, head to the nearby local black sand beach Prainha do Canical to cool off. There’s a small beachside café where you can grab a cold drink or snack while soaking in the sun. If you’re craving a proper meal after the hike, stop in Caniçal, a small fishing village, for some fresh seafood and a classic Fishermen’s Poncha.
Evening – Sunset at Pico do Arieiro
End your day on a high note—literally—with a sunset at Pico do Arieiro. This spot sits at 1,818 meters above sea level and often floats above the clouds. It’s a 30–40 minute drive from Caniçal, so check the webcams beforehand to make sure conditions are right. If you have time and your legs are not tired yet, you can walk the 1.2km from Pico do Arieiro to the famous Stairway to Heaven section along the PR1 trail (3€ fee applies).
Day 2: Forests, Natural Pools & Scenic West Coast
Morning – Fanal Forest & North Coast Drive
Start the day with breakfast in Funchal—try a confeitaria in the popular Mercado dos Lavradores for a local experience. Then set off toward Fanal Forest, known for its mystical fog and twisted laurel trees. Wander the open meadows and snap some magical photos.
Make your way north with a quick detour to see Lombinho Waterfall, which cascades right onto the road. Then stop at Miradouro Ilhéus da Ribeira da Janela for dramatic ocean views.
Lunch & Relaxation – Porto Moniz
Enjoy lunch in Porto Moniz—Snack Bar Ilhéu Mole is a solid choice—and then take a dip in the famous natural volcanic pools.
Afternoon – West Coast Viewpoints
Wind your way back along the west coast and stop at:
- Achadas da Cruz: Take in the views from one of Europe’s steepest cable cars. If you have time, ride down to the remote village below or hike for a challenge.
- Garganta Funda: My personal favorite viewpoint on the west coast—expect cliffs, waterfalls, and sweeping Atlantic views.
Evening – Sunset Dinner in Jardim do Mar
Wrap up the day with dinner in Jardim do Mar, a car-free village with charming alleys and a lovely promenade. While Joe’s Bar is a popular local hangout, note that it doesn’t offer direct sunset views. For golden hour dining, consider one of the restaurants along the promenade or stop earlier at a viewpoint like Garganta Funda before heading to dinner.
Day 3: Levadas, Valleys & Waterfalls
Morning – Sunrise & Levada Hike
If you’re up for an early start, catch the sunrise at Pico do Facho in Machico.
Fuel up at Flor de Machico Bakery, then head to the start of Levada do Castelejo at Katrepa’s Bar. This quiet levada walk begins with a short uphill and then follows a flat scenic path with amazing valley views. It’s about 1.5 hours each way. Afterwards, you can celebrate your hike with a Poncha at Katrepa’s Bar or the nearby Bar do Luís.
Midday – Santana & Waterfalls
Drive north to Santana. Visit the traditional thatched houses or stop by Hotel Quinta do Furão for incredible views—and maybe pizza if you’re hungry. For a short detour, walk to the hidden Cascata de Aguage—just 10 minutes from the road and great for a swim!
Afternoon – North Coast Drive
Enjoy a scenic drive along the lush green north coast. Stop at Miradouro de São Cristóvão and Miradouro do Véu da Noiva between São Vicente and Seixal (waterfalls along the road are stunning here!)
Loop back to Funchal through the center of the island—and don’t forget to stop at the famous Taberna da Poncha along the way for one last taste of this iconic Madeiran drink.
Evening – Dinner in Central Funchal
Back in Funchal, stroll through the old town and treat yourself to dinner at Fernando’s, one of my favorite local spots.
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