Funchal isn’t just about stunning views and historic sites; it also offers some fantastic drinking tours that showcase the city’s vibrant nightlife and craft beer scene. Whether you’re after a lively evening exploring Zona Velha’s top bars or eager to sample unique local brews, Funchal has options to suit different tastes. We particularly like the Madeira: Craft Beer Tour for its comprehensive insights into regional brewing techniques and high ratings, and the Madeira: Bar Hopping for those who love a lively night out in a popular local hotspot.
Both tours offer a chance to relax with a drink while learning about Madeira’s beverage culture, making your visit more memorable. These experiences aren’t just about drinking; they’re about connecting with local traditions and enjoying authentic flavors in a friendly, relaxed setting.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the types of tours included in this list. From guided beer tastings to curated bar crawls, each offers something different:
- A lively Bar Hopping experience through Funchal’s best nightlife area
- An immersive Craft Beer Tour exploring Madeira’s local breweries
Now let’s dive into the details of each.
1. Madeira: Bar Hopping
At number 1, the Madeira: Bar Hopping tour is perfect if you want to sample Madeira’s nightlife in style. For around $51 per person, this 4-hour excursion takes you to the hottest bars in Zona Velha, the city’s buzzing nightlife district. The tour includes hotel and cruise transfers, and seats are reserved, so you won’t need to worry about booking or waiting in line.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on traditional cocktails and the lively atmosphere of the city’s best spots. You’ll visit at least three bars, with at least one drink in each, giving you a taste of Madeira’s cocktail culture. The itinerary includes three pickup locations—Caniço, Câmara De Lobos, and Funchal—making it flexible no matter where you’re staying. The tour concludes with convenient drop-offs at your initial pickup points.
The guide ensures a relaxed yet lively pace, offering insights into the local nightlife and some history of the area. This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want a fun night out without the hassle of organizing everything themselves. The reviews are solid, with a 4/5 rating, indicating good value and enjoyable experiences.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want to explore Funchal’s nightlife with a trusted guide, tasting cocktails and soaking in the local scene.
2. Madeira: Craft Beer Tour
At number 2, the Madeira: Craft Beer Tour offers a more laid-back, beer-focused experience. For $57 per person, this 4-hour guided tour visits local breweries where you’ll taste a variety of craft beers made with unique ingredients. The tour is perfect for those who want an in-depth look at Madeira’s burgeoning craft beer scene.
The tour includes hotel and cruise transfers, with two pickup options—Caniço and Funchal—making it accessible for different travelers. What sets this tour apart is its focus on brewing techniques and the history behind each brewery. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing interesting insights into how these beers are crafted and what makes each one special. You’ll visit at least two breweries and sample several beers, many of which incorporate local ingredients.
Guests often comment on the high quality of the beers and the engaging guides. One review highlights that “the beers are interesting and the locations for beer tasting are fantastic,” giving this tour a perfect 5/5 rating. It’s ideal for beer lovers, foodies, or anyone curious about regional brewing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a detailed look at Madeira’s craft beer scene, with tastings that go beyond the usual.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two, consider your interests and what kind of experience you’re after. Do you want a lively night exploring bars and cocktails? The Bar Hopping tour is your best bet. If craft beer is more your thing and you’re interested in learning about brewing techniques and ingredients, then the Craft Beer Tour offers a deeper dive.
Budget also plays a role—both tours are similarly priced, but the beer tour might be more suited for those with a specific interest in beer. Timing-wise, both tours are four hours long, so think about whether you prefer a night out or a daytime activity.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot, and check availability for your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Funchal offers a great variety of drinking experiences that showcase the city’s lively nightlife and craft beverage scene. The Madeira: Bar Hopping makes for a fun, social evening with easy logistics, while the Craft Beer Tour appeals to those wanting a more in-depth, relaxed exploration of Madeira’s brewing culture. For a lively night out, the bar crawl is hard to beat, but for beer enthusiasts, the craft tour offers a richer experience.
Depending on your interests and travel style, both are worth considering. Book early to guarantee your spot, and get ready to enjoy Madeira’s authentic drink culture—cheers!
