Northeast Tour of the Island

If you’re considering a day trip to Madeira, the Northeast Tour of the Island offers a wonderful way to see some of the most picturesque spots without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. Priced at just over $48 per person, this tour packs in several highlights of Madeira’s lush, rugged northeast coast, all within roughly eight hours. It’s a full itinerary designed for those who want to enjoy stunning views, quaint villages, and a touch of local flavor—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it takes the stress out of exploring. You get a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, and the driver/guide handles the navigation, so you can simply relax and soak up the scenery. Plus, the stops are well-chosen, allowing plenty of opportunities for photos and leisurely exploration. On the flip side, since it’s a group tour, you might find some stops a little brief if you’re eager to linger longer. Still, it’s a great choice for anyone wanting a curated taste of Madeira’s northeast in a single day.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who prefer a structured, hassle-free way to see key sights. Whether you’re a nature lover, interested in local culture, or just want some Instagram-worthy views, this trip hits those marks. Keep in mind, food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing a snack or some water is always a good idea.

Key Points

• All-inclusive vehicle: You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned van, freeing you from driving stress.
• Focus on highlights: The itinerary covers scenic viewpoints, seaside villages, and cultural spots, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
• Photo opportunities: Stops like Pico do Facho and Miradouro da Beira da Quinta offer panoramic views perfect for snapping memories.
• Time-efficient: In just one day, you get a solid overview of Madeira’s northeast, saving you hours of research and planning.
• Informative guide: An experienced guide makes the experience more engaging and offers insights into local sights.
• Affordable price: At around $48, this tour delivers a lot of value for those wanting a guided experience without breaking the bank.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

This tour is structured to give you a well-rounded sense of Madeira’s northeast, covering a variety of landscapes, towns, and viewpoints that define the region. Each stop is designed to showcase something unique, whether it’s jaw-dropping scenery or charming local spots.

Ponta Delgada

Your day begins in Ponta Delgada, a tiny village perched on the north coast. The setting immediately sets the tone — rugged cliffs meet the crashing waves, framed by high mountains. It’s a quiet, scenic spot where you can take a few photos of the coastline and mountain backdrop. The visit here lasts about 30 minutes, so it’s enough to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Arco de São Jorge

Next, you’ll head to Arco de São Jorge, a seaside village famed for its high mountain surroundings and terraced vineyards. The name comes from the natural arc created by the mountains, which is pretty neat to see. From here, you’ll be taken to a viewpoint called Ca — offering a sweeping vista of the village and beyond. Again, about 30 minutes is allotted, giving you a good chance to appreciate the agricultural terraces and rugged coastline.

Miradouro da Beira da Quinta

One of the tour’s standout stops is Miradouro da Beira da Quinta in Cabanas. This viewpoint offers an incredible panorama over Arco de São Jorge, with mountains dropping sharply into the sea. It’s a perfect spot for photos, and the views here are some of the best you’ll find on the tour. The setting is peaceful, giving you a moment to breathe in the fresh mountain air and just enjoy the scenery.

Porto da Cruz

Moving on, you’ll visit Porto da Cruz, a charming port town with a historical twist. The name comes from the steel cross that was placed by the original discoverer, marking the port for travelers. Sitting next to the Penha de Águia, a notable geological formation, the village exudes local character. You’ll have about 30 minutes here, enough to wander a bit, enjoy the seaside atmosphere, and snap photos of the coast and cliffs.

Pico do Facho Viewpoint

This viewpoint, located between Machico and Caniçal, is one of the tour’s highlights. The Pico do Facho offers sweeping views over the Ponta de São Lourenço and Machico. It’s a great place to appreciate Madeira’s varied landscape — from rugged coastlines to lush mountains. The 30-minute stop allows for some panoramic shots and a quick stroll around if you’re feeling energetic.

Santa Cruz

The final stop is Santa Cruz, the island’s eastern municipality. Known for its sunny promenade and relaxed vibe, it’s a fitting place to wind down the day. Right next to the airport, the town has a laid-back charm, perfect for a quick walk along the esplanades or just soaking up the local atmosphere. The stop here lasts about 30 minutes, giving you a relaxing end to your tour.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation: The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that holds up to 16 travelers, ensuring a cozy group without feeling crowded. Having someone else drive means you can relax and take in the views without the stress of navigation.

Time management: Each stop is around 30 minutes, which strikes a good balance—enough time to explore without feeling hurried. The total duration is about 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Cost and value: For just over $48, you get a guided experience that covers several key sights. The price doesn’t include food or drinks, so bringing your own snacks or planning to buy something locally is a smart move.

Booking and cancellation: The tour is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind. Confirmations are immediate, and most travelers can participate, including service animals.

What We Heard From Travelers

One review beautifully captures the experience: “Ótimo atendimento e um dia bem passado na companhia do simpático guia Diogo Graça.” It seems the guide’s friendliness and the overall service make this a memorable day. While the review is positive, it also hints at the importance of good guidance for the best experience.

Travelers love the stunning views and the photo opportunities, especially at Miradouro da Beira da Quinta and Pico do Facho. Many mention the relaxed pace and the convenience of not having to drive themselves. The affordability combined with the scenic stops makes it a popular choice for those looking for a balanced and scenic Madeira day trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful scenery and scenic viewpoints, this tour is a reliable way to see Madeira’s northeast highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of the island’s rugged beauty, charming villages, and panoramic vistas.

The group setting and structured itinerary mean it’s best for travelers who enjoy guided tours and don’t mind a bit of a quick pace. If you’re looking for a more in-depth or leisurely exploration, you might prefer renting a car or booking private options.

For those interested in photography, landscape views, and local culture, this tour offers plenty of opportunities. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want a straightforward, affordable way to see some of Madeira’s best spots in one day.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which takes care of all the driving so you can relax and enjoy the views.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, with multiple stops throughout the day.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks aren’t included, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks or plan to buy something during the stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify restrictions, most travelers can participate. Just keep in mind the stops are around 30 minutes each, which should work well for most ages.

What’s special about the viewpoints?
They offer sweeping panoramic views over the coast, mountains, and villages, making them perfect for photos and soaking in Madeira’s natural beauty.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price covers transportation and the guided experience. However, meals, snacks, or souvenirs are extra.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic viewpoints, seaside villages, and the relaxed pace, along with a friendly guide, makes it a memorable way to explore Madeira’s northeast.

In the end, this Northeast Tour of the Island strikes a good balance between convenience, scenic beauty, and value. It’s a smart choice for travelers eager to see Madeira’s highlights without the stress of planning each stop themselves. Whether you’re snapping photos, enjoying the fresh mountain air, or just soaking in the views, this trip offers a genuine taste of the island’s northern charm.