Funchal is a fantastic base for exploring Madeira in just two days. The island’s compact size means you can cover a surprising amount of ground — from dramatic sea cliffs to lush forests — without feeling rushed. One of our favorite experiences is the Around The Island – Two Days Tour, which offers a comprehensive view of Madeira’s top sights in a convenient small-group setting. It hits the sweet spot for travelers wanting a balance of nature, history, and local culture, all with hassle-free transfers and personalized attention.
If you prefer a more curated, in-depth experience, the All Madeira In 2 Days Tour offers carefully planned stops that include charming fishing villages and scenic viewpoints. For those who like a mix of adventure and cultural insights, the Discover Madeira In 2 Days blends iconic sights with immersive local encounters. And if you’re looking for the ultimate sightseeing experience, the Ultimate Tour features high-altitude peaks and scenic drives that showcase Madeira’s stunning diversity. Now, let’s explore each of these excellent options in detail.
1. Around The Island – Two Days Tour From 9am To 5pm (Each Day)
This popular two-day small-group tour covers nearly the entire island, making it perfect for travelers who want to see Madeira’s highlights without the hassle of planning. For around $71.10 per person, you get two full days of exploration, with stops at top landmarks like Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz natural pools, the fishing village of Camara de Lobos, and the Arieiro and Ruivo peaks.
What sets this tour apart is its carefully curated itinerary, designed to maximize your experience with minimal stress. The guides are attentive, sharing stories about Madeira’s culture and history while handling all transportation logistics. Day 1 includes breathtaking views from Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest sea cliff, and a visit to Ribeira Brava’s 15th-century church. The next day features walks through Laurissilva forest and visits to scenic viewpoints like Fonte do Bispo.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the value of seeing so much of the island in just two days. The small-group format means you get plenty of attention and the chance to ask questions. If you’re after a rundown with local insight, this tour is hard to beat.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free, detailed tour that hits all the major sights with expert guides and small-group intimacy.
2. All Madeira In 2 Days Tour
At number 2 on our list, the All Madeira In 2 Days Tour offers an equally full schedule for about $75.92 per person. It’s designed for those eager to engage directly with Madeira’s natural beauty, history, and traditions in a compact format.
This tour kicks off with Camara de Lobos, inspiring the artist Winston Churchill, then moves on to the impressive Cabo Girao cliff, often regarded as Europe’s highest sea cliff, where you can stand on the glass skywalk. The itinerary continues with a visit to Ribeira Brava and a scenic drive along the Caminho Real da Encumeada, winding through lush landscapes and mountain passes.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on authentic local experiences, like walking through banana plantations at Madalena do Mar or exploring the Encumeada pass. The guide’s commentary brings the scenery alive, and reviews highlight the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides. The tour’s structure makes it perfect for travelers who want a detailed overview but prefer a more involved experience compared to a generic bus ride.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers interested in a scenic, culture-rich tour with engaging guides and personalized touches, especially if you love mountain vistas and coastal villages.
3. Discover Madeira In 2 Days
For those wanting a balanced, engaging two-day adventure, the Discover Madeira In 2 Days is a solid choice, priced at around $74.96 per person. It emphasizes both natural wonders and historical sites, making it suitable for travelers with diverse interests.
The first day includes visits to Camara de Lobos and Cabo Girao, along with a scenic drive through the mountains. A notable feature is the visit to Ribeira Brava and the Caminho Real da Encumeada, offering stunning views amid lush landscapes. The guides are praised for their storytelling, making the scenery more meaningful.
This tour is particularly well-suited for visitors who want a well-rounded experience, combining beautiful viewpoints with cultural insights. The pace is moderate, with stops that allow for photos and short walks. Reviewers note the guides’ enthusiasm and the tour’s good value for money, especially considering the variety of sights covered.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-paced introduction to Madeira’s highlights in two days, with engaging narration and scenic drives.
4. The Ultimate Tour (2 days)
Finally, the Ultimate Tour offers a more high-altitude, scenic experience for about $86.76 per person. It’s ideal if you want to see Madeira’s peaks and forests without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions on your own.
Day 1 features visits to Camacha, a village famous for its folklore, and the Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest summit at 1,818 meters. The tour continues with a trip to Ribeiro Frio, where you can walk through UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest. The day concludes with a visit to the parish of Faial.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on high-altitude landscapes and scenic mountain roads that showcase Madeira’s rugged terrain. The guides are praised for their knowledge and passion, making the experience more personal. The itinerary includes free visits to spectacular viewpoints, making it great for nature lovers. However, it’s a bit more strenuous and suited for travelers comfortable with mountain drives and walking.
Review Highlight: “Passeio abrangente sobre a ilha, cobrindo suas principais atrações, sem perder tempo e sem ser superficial.”
Bottom Line: Suited for active travelers eager to experience Madeira’s mountain peaks and forests with knowledgeable guides, especially those who enjoy scenic drives and outdoor walking.
How to Choose Your Perfect 2-Day Tour in Funchal
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and travel style. For a rundown, the Around The Island is unbeatable. If you want a balanced mix of scenic beauty and local culture, the Discover Madeira fits well. The All Madeira appeals to those eager for authentic experiences with scenic mountain drives, while the Ultimate Tour is perfect for mountain lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, as these tours are popular and fill quickly. Be honest about your fitness level and interests to choose the best fit—some tours involve walking or mountain drives, while others focus on coastal views and cultural spots.
To sum it up, Funchal offers a variety of 2-day tours that cater to different interests and styles. Whether you prefer a full island sweep, a scenic mountain adventure, or an immersive cultural experience, there’s a perfect option waiting. For first-time visitors, a combination of the Around The Island and the All Madeira provides a well-rounded view, while seasoned travelers might prefer the more specialized Ultimate Tour. Whatever you choose, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on Madeira’s stunning scenery and warm hospitality.
