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The 7 Best Lunch Experiences in Madeira
Madeira is a wonderful island for lunch experiences — not just for the food, but for the scenery, local culture, and unique activities that turn a simple meal into a memorable highlight. Whether you’re a wine lover, a sea adventurer, or a nature enthusiast, Madeira offers something special for your midday break.
One of our personal favorites is the Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch, which combines scenic vineyard visits, guided tastings, and a hearty Madeiran meal. Guests love how this tour immerses you in the island’s renowned wine culture while offering spectacular views of the coast and mountains. For a more relaxed, ocean-based experience, the Boat Trip with Lunch, Drinks, and Hotel Transfer stands out, providing fresh seafood, whale and dolphin sightings, and a chance to unwind on the water.
From vineyard visits to boat cruises, Madeira’s lunch options are as diverse as its landscape. Whether you’re after a full-day wine adventure or a half-day scenic sail, our list covers the top choices, helping you find the perfect midday escape.
1. Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch
At number 1, the Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch is a great way to combine wine education with immersive scenery. This tour explores vineyards in Câmara de Lobos, Porto Moniz, and São Vicente, some of the island’s most scenic wine regions. You’ll visit wineries and wine cellars, where guides share insights into Madeira’s unique fortified wine, which has been crafted here for centuries.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to sample a variety of Madeira wines while walking among lush vines and breathtaking landscapes. The highlight is a delicious Madeiran lunch paired with local wines, often served at a traditional restaurant. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and the amazing views of terraced vineyards and laurel forests. A typical day includes visits to São Vicente’s volcanic caves, the historic charm of Funchal, and the terraced vineyards of Câmara de Lobos.
Good for wine enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to learn about Madeira’s famed wine culture, this tour offers excellent value at around $215 per person. Critics rave about the delicious lunch and the stunning vistas.
Bottom Line: It’s the best pick for a full day of wine, scenery, and good food, especially if you’re keen to learn and taste in one go.
2. From Funchal: Full-Day Madeira Wine Tour with Lunch
Coming in at number 2, this full-day Madeira wine tour from Funchal offers a similar experience with a few unique touches. The tour visits different wine regions, giving you a broader perspective on Madeira’s varied terroirs. You’ll enjoy tastings at different estates, meet local winemakers, and savor a local lunch at a vineyard house.
The itinerary includes stops at Blandy’s, a renowned winery, along with visits to traditional vineyards in Câmara de Lobos and Seixal. Guests love the local stories shared by guides and the generous wine tastings. Many reviewers highlight the delicious beef skewer lunch at a vineyard, which perfectly complements the wines. The tour runs from about 9:15 am to 5 pm, with hotel pickup included, making it easy and comfortable to enjoy Madeira’s wine culture without worry.
Priced at roughly $210, this experience is a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive tour that balances wine, food, and island scenery. Reviewers say it’s “an excellent way to explore the island’s wine regions with great company and knowledgeable guides.”
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want to explore multiple wine regions in one day, with a relaxed pace and excellent local food.
3. Madeira: Boat Trip with Lunch, Drinks, and Hotel Transfer
Number 3 on our list is the Boat Trip with Lunch, Drinks, and Hotel Transfer — perfect for those who want to combine dining with the calming experience of being on the water. This half-day cruise includes hotel pickup, making logistics much simpler.
Onboard, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring seasonal and regional dishes, along with refreshing drinks like wine, beer, and juices. The highlight is the chance to snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear waters near Calhau da Lapa. Many travelers find the relaxed atmosphere and friendly crew make this trip special. The ability to see marine life and enjoy a delicious meal onboard offers a refreshing break from sightseeing.
Rated at $63, this experience offers excellent value for those seeking a short, relaxing escape from land-based tours. Reviewers often mention the tasty lunch and the good safety instructions onboard as standout features.
Bottom Line: It’s a fantastic choice if you want a combination of sea, scenery, and delicious local food in a shorter, more casual format.
4. Half Day Madeira Island Cruise with Lunch
The Half Day Madeira Island Cruise with Lunch ranks high for its combination of marine wildlife spotting and traditional lunch. This 5-hour tour features a cruise along the west coast, with whale and dolphin sightings often reported — a real hit for families and nature lovers.
Starting around 9:30 am, the tour includes hotel pickup and a buffet lunch aboard the boat. Guests rave about the helpful crew, delicious food, and the chance to see dolphins up close. The boat is designed for comfort, and the onboard bar keeps everyone refreshed. The swimming and snorkeling opportunities at Calhau da Lapa add an extra layer of enjoyment.
This experience offers a relaxed pace and the chance to enjoy Madeira’s coastline from the water while enjoying a hearty meal. At $63, it’s a good value for those wanting wildlife and scenic views combined with lunch. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly crew and the excellent food as highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and those who prefer a shorter, scenic boat cruise with a good meal.
5. From Funchal: West Bays Sailing Tour with Lunch
Number 5 features the West Bays Sailing Tour, a more leisurely way to see Madeira’s rugged coastline. This guided sailing trip takes you past major bays like Ponta do Sol and Ribeira Brava, with opportunities to spot whales and dolphins.
The tour includes a delicious onboard lunch and time for snorkeling among the colorful fish. Many travelers praise the friendly and enthusiastic crew who ensure everyone stays comfortable and entertained. The small group size makes for a more personal experience, and the scenic sailing provides a different perspective on Madeira’s dramatic coastline.
Rated at $80, this tour offers excellent value for those wanting a more relaxed, scenic day at sea. Reviewers highlight the fun atmosphere and the delicious lunch as standout features.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re after a sailing adventure with a relaxed pace and plenty of wildlife and scenery.
6. From Funchal: Madeira Wine Tour, Cable Car & Typical Lunch
The Madeira Wine Tour with Cable Car & Lunch offers a full-day experience for those who want a mix of wine tasting, scenic views, and local culture. Starting from Funchal, you’ll enjoy a cable car ride to Fajã dos Padres, visit a wine cellar, and indulge in a typical Madeiran lunch.
The tour emphasizes wine education, with visits to different vineyards and tasting sessions. Guests love the combination of outdoor scenic riding and indoor tastings, plus the authentic local lunch made from fresh ingredients. The visit to To Vineyard and several wine tastings make this a flavorful experience.
Priced at $194, it’s well suited for wine lovers who want an immersive cultural day. Reviews highlight the scenic cable car ride and the delicious, homemade lunch as memorable features.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a cultural, full-day experience blending wine, scenery, and local cuisine.
7. Levada Walk, Cider Tasting & Lunch
Finally, number 7 is the Levada Walk, Cider Tasting & Lunch, perfect for outdoor lovers seeking active relaxation. The tour includes a walk along Madeira’s famous levadas — narrow irrigation channels through lush forests. Afterward, enjoy a local cider tasting and a lunch in an orchard in Camacha.
This experience is ideal if you want to combine nature, authentic food, and local drinks. The scenic walk through Laurissilva forest offers a chance to see Madeira’s plant life up close, followed by a tasting of Madeiran cider and a rustic lunch. At $139, it balances activity and relaxation well.
Reviewers mention the beautiful walk and delicious cider, making it a favorite for those who prefer hands-on experiences. It’s best suited for active travelers with a taste for the outdoors and local flavors.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers wanting a combination of nature, tasting, and a relaxed meal.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Madeira
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and budget. Want a full day of wine tasting with scenic vineyard views and a hearty lunch? The Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch is your pick. Prefer something on the water? The Boat Trip with Lunch offers marine wildlife and sea breezes. For active outdoor lovers, the Levada Walk with Cider Tasting provides a scenic trek combined with local drinks and food.
Consider logistics too — if you prefer all-inclusive options with hotel pickup, tours like the From Funchal wine tour or the full-day wine experience are convenient. If you’re on a budget and want a shorter escape, the cruise or boat trip offers excellent value at around $63.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to ensure availability and secure the best times for your preferred experience.
Final Thoughts
Madeira’s lunch options are as diverse as the island itself. For wine lovers, the Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour and From Funchal offer immersive tastings with beautiful scenery. If you prefer the water, the Boat Trip with Lunch is relaxing and scenic, while outdoor enthusiasts might enjoy the Levada Walk combined with cider tasting.
For couples, families, or solo travelers, each offers a different slice of Madeira life. With so many options, you’ll find a lunch experience that fits your style and schedule. Remember to book early, particularly in high season, to ensure your spot at these memorable midday adventures.
