From Funchal: North Coast Day Trip

Planning a visit to Madeira and looking for a way to see some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes? This North Coast Day Trip from Funchal is a popular choice, offering a full day of sightseeing, stunning views, and local charm. Priced at around $41 per person, it’s an accessible way to explore beyond the city and get a real sense of Madeira’s diverse scenery.

While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews highlight its excellent combination of scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see areas that might be tricky to reach on your own. One of our favorite aspects is how the tour promises unsurpassed ocean and island views, making it perfect for those who love dramatic landscapes. Also, the stops in small villages and the chance to sample local scenery make this a memorable experience.

That said, it’s a full 8-hour day, which can feel long if you’re not used to lots of travel in one go, especially with variable weather that might make some stops more enjoyable than others. If you’re after a relaxed, flexible experience, a guided tour like this could be a great fit—especially if you want to sit back and let someone else handle the navigation. It’s ideal for travelers who want a structured day that packs in a lot of scenery and local flavor.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning from guides who know the island well, and you’re eager to see Madeira’s northern coast with its valleys and rugged coastline, this tour could be right up your alley. Now, let’s break down what makes this trip tick, so you can decide if it suits your Madeira adventure.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery along the north coast, valleys, and ravines.
• Guided tour with knowledgeable guides in multiple languages.
• Stops in charming villages like Cabanas de São Jorge and Ponta Delgada.
• Views of vineyards and mountains, perfect for photography.
• Full-day experience with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Price offers good value for a comprehensive sightseeing day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the North Coast Day Trip

This tour is a well-rounded way to experience Madeira’s north coast without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s a good choice if you want to see the island’s natural beauty, enjoy some local culture, and avoid the stress of driving on unfamiliar roads.

Departure and Pickup

The adventure begins with a pickup from select hotels in Funchal, which is included in the price. This makes the start of your day smooth and hassle-free. The tour lasts around 8 hours, so prepare for a full day of sightseeing, with some flexibility depending on traffic and weather conditions. Starting times vary, so check availability when booking.

First Stops: Valleys, Ravines, and Views

As you leave Funchal, you’ll head north to witness some of Madeira’s most remarkable scenery. The journey takes you through narrow, winding roads that reveal stunning valley landscapes and spectacular ocean views from different angles. The first major stop is the village of Cabanas de São Jorge. Here, you’ll get an up-close look at the sea, rugged coastline, and vineyards clinging to steep slopes—a real contrast to the bustling city life.

Traveling through Faial, you’ll see lush valleys and maybe even spot some local farms. The guide’s commentary is often praised for being both informative and engaging, sharing stories and fun facts about the island’s geography and culture. One reviewer mentioned the guide knew a whole lot about Madeira, enriching the experience with anecdotes and lesser-known details.

Ponta Delgada and Local Lunch

Next, you’ll arrive at Ponta Delgada, a picturesque village where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. The tour usually includes a stop here for lunch, which is a real highlight. The included meal is at a cozy restaurant, offering a la carte options or a set menu featuring soup, main courses, dessert, and drinks—for around 14 euros, which many travelers find reasonable considering the quality and location.

This break gives you a chance to relax and soak in more of the local atmosphere before heading westward along Madeira’s wild coastline.

More Great Tours Nearby

São Vicente and the Valley of Wonders

The afternoon takes you to São Vicente, a charming village nestled in a beautiful valley. Here, the surroundings are vivid and lush, perfect for photos and just taking in the natural beauty. According to reviews, guides often take smaller roads, some not even on the map, which means you get a more intimate experience and better views than on the main highways.

Return Through Valleys and Ravines

As the day winds down, the tour navigates back through the carved valleys of Madeira, showcasing the island’s geological history in a series of winding, scenic routes. You pass Ribeira Brava, a lovely zone that’s often praised for its peaceful atmosphere and lovely views.

Overall Experience and Value

Travelers consistently rate this tour highly—averaging a 4.8 out of 5 from 38 reviews. Many mention the expertise of the guides and the breathtaking scenery as their favorite parts. One reviewer loved Luciano’s storytelling and the beautiful places he took them, calling it the “highlight” of their Madeira trip.

While the price ($41) seems very fair for the full-day experience, it’s important to remember that lunch isn’t included, which can be a bonus if you prefer to explore local eateries on your own or want to keep costs down. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Tips

The journey is made in a comfortable guided minibus, which is perfect for navigating Madeira’s narrow, winding roads. The small group size means more personalized attention, and most travelers say the ride is smooth and comfortable.

Given the changeable weather on the island, it’s wise to bring layers—you might start the day in the sun but encounter cooler or even rainy conditions. Some reviewers recommend packing extra clothes, especially since you might want to stay outside longer at scenic stops.

The tour lasts around 8 hours, so plan your day accordingly. Arrive dressed comfortably and prepared for a fair amount of sightseeing and driving. The flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) offers peace of mind, and booking now with a pay-later option helps if you’re still finalizing your plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is suited for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s north coast without the hassle of self-driving. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided commentary, scenic stops, and the convenience of hotel pickup. It also appeals to those who enjoy small villages, mountain vistas, and dramatic coastlines.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy comfortable day trips with rich views, this tour should fit well. However, if you prefer more flexibility, longer hikes, or specific activities like swimming or exploring caves (not included here), you might want to look at other options.

Final Thoughts

This North Coast Day Trip from Funchal offers a well-rounded glimpse of Madeira’s rugged natural beauty, with expert guides leading the way through scenic villages, valleys, and coastlines. It’s a solid choice for anyone eager to see a variety of landscapes in one day, especially if you’re keen on photography, local culture, and learning from knowledgeable guides.

While it’s a full day, the itinerary’s variety and the breathtaking views make it worthwhile. Plus, the reasonable price and included pickup make it accessible and convenient. If you enjoy guided tours that combine stunning scenery with small-group intimacy, this might become one of your trip’s highlights.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup from select hotels in Funchal and surrounding areas is included, which makes starting your day easy.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, offering a full day of sightseeing and stops.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the price, but there is a recommended restaurant stop where you can choose your own meal or opt for a set menu at around 14 euros.

What languages are available for the tour guide?
Guides speak Spanish, English, French, German, and Portuguese, so you can choose according to your preference.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the tour’s focus on scenic drives and village stops suggests it’s manageable for families, especially if your kids enjoy scenic landscapes. Just keep in mind it’s a full-day trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your planning.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed way to see Madeira’s north coast with knowledgeable guides and unbeatable views, this day trip is a good bet. It balances comfort, scenery, and local charm—making it a worthwhile addition to your Madeira itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: