Bar hopping Tour in Funchal

If you’re looking to get a real taste of Funchal’s lively nightlife and local flavors, a bar hopping tour might just be the perfect pick. We’re not talking about just wandering from bar to bar aimlessly — this experience is curated, with stops at some of the most iconic and authentic spots in the city. Whether you’re into wine, cocktails, or just love sampling local brews, this tour offers a solid window into Madeira’s drink culture, all in a relaxed setting.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to try a variety of local drinks like artisanal beers, Madeira wine, and the famous Ginja in edible chocolate cups — yes, that makes for a fun photo op. Second, the Poncha workshop offers a hands-on bit of local tradition, giving you a chance to see how this iconic Madeiran spirit is made. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that some might expect a full-fledged workshop where you make your own Poncha, but the experience is more of a demonstration and tasting, which might feel a bit light for those expecting more hands-on participation.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy good drinks, vibrant atmospheres, and want a taste of local culture without the fuss. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a lively, social experience that combines history, flavor, and a bit of fun—all within a short, 3-hour window.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focus on local drinks like Ginja, Poncha, Madeira wine, and artisanal beers.
• Beautiful Settings: Explore the historic streets of Funchal while hopping between different bar atmospheres.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides provide insights into each drink’s background and local culture.
• Hands-On Element: The Poncha workshop, albeit more of a demonstration, adds a cultural touch.
• Varied Tastes: From sweet cocktails to complex wines, there’s plenty to sample.
• Ideal Duration: At just 3 hours, it’s a compact, manageable way to enjoy Funchal’s nightlife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Funchal Bar Hopping Tour

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves discovering a city through its drinks, this tour might be just the ticket. It’s designed to take you through 6 stops in the historic streets of Funchal, combining tasting, storytelling, and a bit of hands-on activity. The experience is organized by Wine Tours Madeira and offers a lively, cultural way to spend an afternoon or early evening.

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll meet your guide at Blandys Wine Lodges, a well-known name in Madeira’s wine scene, located at Avenida Arriaga 28. The tour begins promptly at 4:00 p.m., so arriving 15 minutes early is recommended. The meeting point’s coordinates are handy if you’re navigating on your own — 32.64786148071289, -16.910619735717773. The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, making it easy to slot into a relaxed sightseeing day.

The Stops and Their Appeal

1. A Madeira Winery and Wine Tasting

We loved the way the tour kicks off with a visit to a local winery. Here, you get to taste one of their fine still wines, setting a sophisticated tone for the afternoon. It’s a chance to learn how Madeira’s unique wine is produced and taste its complex flavors, which are known for their longevity and versatility. This stop is especially good for wine lovers or those wanting to understand what makes Madeira wine so special.

2. Artisanal Beers in a Traditional Bar

Next, you’ll visit a local bar to sample three artisanal beers brewed with Madeira ingredients. The variety showcases the island’s brewing creativity and local influence. Several reviewers note the quality and distinctiveness of the beers, saying it’s more than just a typical pub crawl. One reviewer from Switzerland mentions how the experience was “not just a tasting but a fun afternoon,” supporting the idea that these stops are thoughtfully curated.

3. Ginja in an Edible Chocolate Cup

One highlight is tasting the famous Ginja (Ginjinha), a cherry liqueur that’s sweet, tart, and packed with local flavor. The unusual presentation — served in an edible chocolate cup — makes it memorable and fun for photos. Travelers like Natasha from the UK appreciated the “lovely tasting experiences,” especially when paired with the appealing presentation.

4. Madeira Wine Tasting

Another stop emphasizes Madeira’s signature fortified wine. Expect a tasting experience that explores its diverse flavors. Several reviews mention how the wine tasting allows you to understand Madeira’s reputation among wine enthusiasts and appreciate its complex profile.

5. Nikita Cocktail

The tour also features the iconic Nikita cocktail, a refreshing blend of beer, ice cream, and tropical fruits. It’s sweet, creamy, and distinctly Madeiran. One reviewer describes it as a “must-try,” which makes sense because it’s a popular local specialty and a fun treat to enjoy in a cozy atmosphere.

6. Poncha Demonstration

Finally, the tour concludes with a Poncha workshop, which is more of a demonstration than a hands-on crafting session. The guide shows how to make this traditional spirit, and you get to taste the finished product afterward. Several reviewers mention how much they appreciated learning about Poncha, with one describing the experience as “very interesting” and ending with a “beautiful view.” While some might expect a full workshop where they make their own Poncha, the demonstration still offers valuable insight into this iconic Madeiran drink.

What’s the Experience Like?

Throughout the tour, guides take pride in sharing stories and background about each drink, making the experience more than just tasting. From the lively streets to the cozy bars, you’ll get a sense of Funchal’s authentic night vibe. Reviewers like Matt from Germany highlight the variety of bars, ranging from traditional taverns to more modern venues, each adding its own charm.

Many guests comment on how knowledgeable guides enhanced the experience, giving insights into local customs and drink histories. The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and social, perfect for travelers who enjoy meeting new people or simply want to soak in Funchal’s ambiance.

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The Value of the Tour

At around €50-€70 per person, this tour offers a good bang for your buck considering the variety of drinks, the guided experience, and the cultural insights. Plus, the fact that it lasts only 3 hours makes it very manageable, especially if you’re combining it with other sightseeing or dinner plans.

A common sentiment from reviews is appreciation for the quality of the drinks and the local knowledge provided. One reviewer from the Netherlands sums it up: “Each location had its charm, and the drinks were explained well, making it more than just a tasting — it’s an education in Madeira’s drink culture.”

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for anyone who enjoys sampling local beverages, learning about regional traditions, and exploring a city’s streets with a friendly guide. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid overly touristy spots and instead enjoy a more authentic, community-focused experience. If you’re into wine, cocktails, or craft beers, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s also a good choice if you’re not traveling with children or pregnant women, as the focus is on alcoholic drinks. If you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or even in a small group, this tour offers a friendly, informal atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up, this bar hopping tour in Funchal stands out as a lively, informative, and tasty way to spend an afternoon. The mix of local drinks, the guided storytelling, and the relaxed pace make it a solid choice for those looking to experience Madeira beyond the usual sightseeing. It’s particularly enjoyable if you love discovering authentic flavors in a social setting.

While the Poncha activity isn’t a full hands-on workshop, the demonstration combined with tastings still delivers a genuine taste of Madeira’s spirit culture. The curated stops and knowledgeable guides help turn a simple drink tasting into a memorable cultural snapshot.

If you’re after a fun, relaxed introduction to Funchal’s nightlife and drinks, this tour offers good value and genuine local charm. It’s best for curious travelers, wine and cocktail lovers, and those who appreciate good company and storytelling. Just keep in mind that it’s more about tasting and learning rather than full-fledged cocktail or Poncha making.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
No, the tour focuses on alcoholic drinks and isn’t suitable for children or pregnant women. It’s designed for adults who enjoy tasting local spirits and beverages.

What is the meeting point?
You meet at Blandys Wine Lodges at Avenida Arriaga 28 in Funchal, right at the entrance. It’s easy to find, and arriving 15 minutes early is recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable activity to fit into a relaxed afternoon.

What drinks will I taste?
You can expect to taste artisanal beers, Ginja in an edible chocolate cup, Madeira wine, the Nikita cocktail, and Poncha. The guide provides background on each.

Is there a full workshop where I make Poncha?
No, it’s more of a demonstration and tasting experience rather than a hands-on workshop.

Are the drinks included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes all tasting experiences at each stop.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the group size?
The tour generally has a limit of about 15 participants, making it intimate enough for personal interaction.

Is the guide bilingual?
The tour is conducted in English.

Would this be a good tour for a solo traveler?
Absolutely. The relaxed, social nature of the tour makes it ideal for solo travelers wanting to meet others and enjoy a cultural experience.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a cocktail lover, or just someone eager to see Funchal through a local lens, this tour is worth considering. It’s a friendly, flavorful way to add a little extra to your Madeira trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: