Madeira Full Day Tour West and East Island Top Highlights Tour

If you’re considering a quick but comprehensive way to see Madeira’s best sights, this full-day guided tour offers an excellent option. Covering both the eastern and western parts of the island, it provides a taste of Madeira’s dramatic landscapes, charming villages, and natural wonders. It’s a busy day, but for those who want a broad overview without sacrificing the details, it could be just what you need.

Two things we really like about this experience are its small-group setting, which means more personalized attention from the guide and plenty of time to ask questions, and the variety of stops—from rugged cliffs to quaint villages and natural pools. The tour’s price of around $81 per person is reasonable considering the range of sights you’ll cover. However, the sheer amount of driving and tight schedule might not suit travelers craving a more relaxed pace or in-depth exploration of each site.

One potential downside is the fast pace—you’ll be on the move for about 7 to 8 hours, with limited time at each spot. Also, some reviews mention that the guide’s commentary could be more detailed on local history or stories. But overall, this tour suits anyone wanting to tick off the island’s highlights in a single day, especially if you’re short on time or prefer guided adventures over self-driving.

If you enjoy exploring varied landscapes, love a little adventure, and appreciate knowledgeable guides, this Madeira tour definitely deserves a place on your bucket list.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage: Visit both the east and west coasts of Madeira in one day, including many of the island’s top sights.
• Small-group experience: Up to 8 travelers, offering a more intimate and flexible tour.
• Diverse stops: From rugged cliffs and scenic viewpoints to colorful villages and natural pools.
• Value for money: For around $81, you get a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and a guide.
• Timing: Expect a long but engaging day, roughly 7 to 8 hours.
• Flexibility: Pickup included if you’re staying in designated areas, with options for mobile tickets.

The Full Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Starting Point: Early Morning Pickup

Your day kicks off at 8:30am with pickup from your accommodation if you’re within the designated areas. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll start your journey full of anticipation for what’s ahead. The tour is capped at 8 people, which helps keep the experience personal and flexible.

Stop 1: Ponta de São Lourenço

Your first stop is the eastern tip of Madeira, a rugged peninsula that’s a nature lover’s paradise. Known for volcanic rock formations and spectacular ocean views, Ponta de São Lourenço offers hiking trails that vary from easy walks to more challenging treks. The area is a haven for seabirds and rare plants, making it a great spot for nature photography.

Many travelers, like Rukia, mention how this part is “so worth it” despite being a longer day. The crystal-clear waters here are perfect for a quick swim or snorkel if you want to cool off before the next stops. The lighthouse at the end of the peninsula is a highlight, offering panoramic views of the coastline.

Stop 2: Santana

Next, it’s time to visit the charming town of Santana, famed for its colorful traditional houses with straw-thatched roofs—something you’ll want to photograph. The brightly painted “palheiros” are quite the contrast against the lush green mountains and make for a delightful stroll.

In reviews, visitors often mention how visiting Santana feels like stepping into a postcard. The town also offers some beautiful flowers and a chance to see local life up close. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, but enough to soak in the rustic charm.

Stop 3: Miradouro da Beira da Quinta

Then, it’s up to a panoramic viewpoint on the north coast. This spot offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the old sugar cane factory ruins. The perspective here gives you a real sense of Madeira’s rugged terrain and lush landscape, ideal for capturing memorable photos.

Stop 4: Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools

Probably one of the most talked-about stops, the Porto Moniz pools are volcanic in origin—formed naturally by lava flows—and filled with clear seawater. It’s a perfect place for a relaxing swim and lunch.

Visitors love this spot for its unique natural beauty. You might find yourself spending an hour or more here, enjoying the water or simply soaking in the scenery. Keep in mind, entrance fees aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you want to swim.

Stop 5: Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse

On the western tip of Madeira, the Ponta do Pargo lighthouse sits atop cliffs 300 meters above sea level. It’s a historic beacon that’s been guiding ships since 1922. The views from here are spectacular, and the lighthouse itself is a great photo opportunity.

Stop 6: Paul do Mar

Further along the coast, the small fishing village of Paul do Mar offers a glimpse into local life. Known for its black sand beaches and surfing, it’s a peaceful spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the authentic Portuguese atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and less touristy this stop feels.

Stop 7: Cabo Girao

One of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, Cabo Girao offers jaw-dropping views over the Atlantic. The glass viewing platform, opened in 2012, is a highlight for those wanting a thrill and a great photo. It’s a quick stop, but the scenery is unforgettable.

Final Stop: Funchal Drive-Back

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour winds down with a scenic drive back to Funchal, completing your approximately 8-hour adventure.

What We Love About This Tour

From the reviews and details, there are a few standout aspects that make this Madeira tour appealing. First, the guides are often praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and easy to talk to. This personal touch elevates the experience, especially when you’re covering so many sights in one day. Many guests mention how their guides, like Jorge or Francisco, made the trip memorable with their insights and stories.

Second, the variety of stops ensures you get a well-rounded experience. Visiting both the east and west coasts, you’ll see dramatic cliffs, cute villages, and natural pools—all in one go. The landscape is diverse enough that it doesn’t get monotonous, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing.

The value for money is also notable. At about $81, you get transportation, a guide, and a full day of exploration. Considering the number of sites visited and the personalized group size, many reviewers feel they received good bang for their buck, especially when compared to self-driving or multiple separate tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want an overview of Madeira in a single day without the hassle of renting a car or planning numerous stops. It’s ideal for people with limited time but still eager to see the island’s highlights. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and don’t mind a lot of driving, you’ll likely enjoy the pace.

However, if you’re after in-depth exploration of each location, or prefer a more leisurely day, this might feel a bit rushed. The tour does provide ample time at key viewpoints, but some may find it too quick for deep immersion.

Also, those interested in nature and scenic views will find this trip rewarding. It’s not focused on historical or cultural details, but rather on experiencing Madeira’s landscapes and natural beauty firsthand.

Practical Details

The tour runs from 8:30 am, with pickup if your accommodation is within the pickup areas. It lasts about 7 to 8 hours, including transportation time between stops. The group size is small—no more than 8 travelers—which helps keep things intimate and flexible. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the long day more comfortable.

You’ll need to cover some extra costs, such as entrance fees for Porto Moniz pools and Cabo Girao’s viewing platform, if you wish to access them. The tour includes snacks, drinks, and a guide, so you’re well cared for throughout.

The Sum Up

In all, this Madeira Full Day Tour offers an excellent way to cover a lot of ground in a single day, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time. The combination of stunning viewpoints, charming villages, and natural pools makes it a well-rounded experience. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge are often highlighted as key strengths, and the value for the price is clear.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full, active day and appreciate guided insights. If you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced exploration, you might want to consider fewer stops or a private tour. But for those wanting to see the island’s highlights without the stress of planning, this tour really hits the mark.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, including travel time and stops.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered if you’re staying within the designated areas.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Porto Moniz pools and Cabo Girao are paid separately.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear if you want to swim, and some cash for optional entrance fees.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly mentioned, but given the nature of the stops, it could suit older children comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a guided tour with a set schedule, so customization isn’t typically available, but the small group allows for some flexibility.

If you want a hassle-free way to see Madeira’s most iconic sights in a single day, this tour could be a great choice—especially if you value knowledgeable guides and a variety of scenery. Just be prepared for a full, activity-packed day, and you’ll come away with plenty of memories.