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Allison Green is a former teacher who has been travel blogging since 2016. She has a Masters in Teaching and a B.A. in English and Creative Writing. Her blog posts merge her background as an educator with her experience traveling to 70+ countries to encourage ethical, meaningful travel. She has been a speaker at the World Travel Writers Conference and her writing, photography, and podcasting work has appeared in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, CBC Canada, and Forbes, amongst others. Now a full-time traveler, she has lived in Prague, Sofia, New York City, and the San Francisco Bay Area.

15 Magical Things to Do in Madeira, Portugal’s Island Paradise

July 1, 2023June 30, 2023 by Guest Contributor

Madeira is an island of breathtaking beauty and captivating charm.

Nicknamed the “Island of Flowers”, it boasts a stunning landscape that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

From sun-soaked beaches to verdant forests, there’s something for everyone here.

view of the pebble beach of praia formosa in madeira with cliff and hill town behind it

Choose from adventurous outdoor activities like hiking or relaxing on one of its many gorgeous beaches of the Portuguese archipelago.

Here are 15 of the best things to do in Madeira – from sightseeing and outdoor recreation to cultural attractions and culinary delights!

The Best Things to Do in Madeira

Visit Cabo Girão Skywalk.

Looking at the glass floor at the highest viewpoint called Cabo Girao in Funchal, Madeira

When visiting the island of Madeira, a trip to Cabo Girão Skywalk is an absolute must.

This nerve-wracking experience is not for the faint-hearted, as you’ll be walking on a glass platform that is suspended 580 meters above sea level.

This platform is the highest in Europe, and the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rocky cliffs below are breathtaking!

With what looks like nothing beneath your feet, you’ll feel like you’re walking on air as you take in the stunning panoramic views of Madeira’s coastline (don’t forget your camera!).

This attraction is free, but it can get really busy during high season when tour buses stop off here more frequently.

Top Tip: During the high season, they use turnstiles to control the number of people on the platform at one time, so try to visit this viewpoint first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon (but not quite sunset!).

See the fishing village of Câmara De Lobos.

Small port in Madeira, Camara de Lobos, Portugal with fishing boats, cliffs, and villages on top of the cliff

A quaint fishing village located about a 10-minute drive from Funchal, Câmara De Lobos is one of Madeira’s hidden gems: a picturesque town known for its colorful fishing boats lining the harbor and rugged cliffs framing the sea.

Don’t miss the fish hung to dry on some of the boats, and fishermen mending nets in near their boats.

This is where some of Madeira’s most plentiful marine life can be found!

You’ll find everything from octopus to stingrays to an array of colorful fish.

If you’re scuba certified, it’s a perfect spot for diving! Even if you’re not, it’s also great seen by snorkel.

Back on dry land, you can also take a stroll through the narrow streets of Câmara De Lobos.

Here, you’ll find traditional Madeiran houses, quaint restaurants, and charming coffee shops serving local delicacies and a lot of fish!

This is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the authentic Madeira.

Top Tip: Stop for lunch or dinner at Restaurante O Polar for an incredible view and fabulous fish and local dishes!

Wander through Madeira Botanical Garden.

The purple flowers and green and pink and red vegetation of the Madeira botanical gardens

Located just outside of Funchal, the Madeira Botanical Garden is home to several hundred species of plants and flowers.

You’ll find everything to from rare orchids to palm trees in this garden oasis!

Not only can you learn about the unique ecosystems found on this beautiful island, you can also take in breathtaking views from atop its terraces.

Take your time exploring this colorful botanical paradise — it’s open from 9 AM to 6 PM daily.

Look out from Ponta de São Lourenço Nature Reserve.

Rugged terrain of Ponta de Sao Lourenco nature reserve looking out on the Atlantic ocean with clear skies on a sunny day and other small islands in the distance on the horizon — *Photo Credit: Monika Dejn*

When visiting Madeira, one of the most spectacular natural spots that you should not miss is the Ponta de São Lourenço Nature Reserve.

This pristine and untouched peninsula, located at Caniçal, the easternmost point of the island, offers an unforgettable experience.

You’ll be awed by the steep cliffs, rugged rocks, and arid landscapes that stand in stark contrast with the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean.

The reserve is bursting with wildlife, featuring several endemic species such as the Madeira wall lizard, as well as birds and marine creatures.

The main trail called Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenço starts at the car park located about 1.5 hours from Funchal.

The viewpoint is about 30 minutes from the car park, but you can walk the whole 8 km to see an array of landscapes, from volcanic rock formations to sandy beaches, and take in the stunning wilderness.

Top Tip: There isn’t anywhere to buy a drink or snacks, so bring whatever you’ll need for the trek. Also, be prepared for the gale-force winds!

Climb Pico Ruivo, the highest mountain in Madeira.

Photo from the top of Pico Ruivo with mist and handrails protecting hikers from falling — *Photo Credit: Monika Dejn*

Hiking enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to climb Pico Ruivo, the highest peak in Madeira.

At nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, reaching the summit of Pico Ruivo is a challenging hike.

Be prepared; you’ll definitely need to wear proper hiking shoes, drink loads of water, and wear sunscreen!

Admittedly, between its rugged terrain and steep includes, this trail is not for the faint of heart. It’s a real challenge!

The trail itself is magical, taking visitors through lush forests then past cascading waterfalls and rocky outcroppings, showcasing Madeira’s diverse landscapes.

However, the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit is hard to put into words, made all the sweet with some of the most breathtaking views in all of Madeira at the top.

For those willing to take on the challenge, the views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean beyond are nothing short of spectacular.

Top Tip: May through to September aren’t the best months to go hiking due to the heat, so if you’d like to hike while in Madeira, plan to go between October and April.

Soak up the sun on Praia Formosa Beach.

Stunning sunset at Praia Formosa with waves crashing into rock formations as the sun sets — *Photo Credit: Monika Dejn*

After an exhilarating hike up Pico Ruivo, visitors can unwind and relax at Praia Formosa Beach, located just a short drive away from Funchal.

Since Madeira is a volcanic island, sand beaches aren’t the norm here, and Praia Formosa is no exception.

It is one of the few beaches in Funchal, and it has a laid-back atmosphere and a gorgeous view, perfect for relaxing at the end of a long day.

Although it is quite rocky, it offers clear waters and a fabulous view of Pico Girao.

If you’re lucky you’ll get to see the waterfall of runoff water coming off the cliffs to the left of the tunnel after heavy rainfall!

There are a few bars along the beach where you can have a drink at sunset, so enjoy!

Top Tip: This beach is extremely clean and really pleasant, but the sharp rocks on the shore will have you hobbling if you don’t bring water shoes and something to sit on. Also, watch out for large waves during winter months.

Relax in Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools.

The waters of Porto Moniz, a popular swimming location in Madeira island with lots of people enjoying the waters — *Photo Credit: Yuni Navarro*

If you’re looking for a fabulous afternoon on Madeira Island, the Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools should be at the top of your list.

These volcanic rock pools have been shaped by the ocean waves over centuries, creating a natural oasis for swimmers and sunbathers alike.

The lido complex of blue water is both refreshing and soothing, and the scenic backdrop of the rocks and cliffs adds to the picturesque setting.

This was my personal favorite spot on the island, and I spent hours enjoying the water and the view.

It has changing rooms, showers, and snack bars for when you get peckish: everything you need for a full day out.

Top Tip: Some of the natural pools have a very rough bottom due to the rock formations so make sure to bring water shoes. It’s worth noting that if the tide is high and the waves are large, this is not a recommended activity.

Taste local wines and tapas around Funchal city center.

A plate of seafood tapas in Madeira served on the half shell

Funchal city center offers a gastronomical feast for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike.

Of course, the locally Madeira wine is a must-try; it’s been produced on the island for over 500 years.

You can easily spend an afternoon touring the local wineries and tasting different varieties of Madeira wine since no two are exactly alike.

Try H. M. Borges Madeira winery on the main road, they have a tasting room and give an excellent tour of the winery and installations.

Also, have some local food at the Informal Restaurante down the street! This highly-rated restaurant has platters to share and more elaborate dishes if that’s more your thing.

Plus, the atmosphere in Funchal city center is vibrant and lively, with bustling cafes and delicious restaurants lining the streets — the perfect place for a culinary exploration of Madeira!

Go dolphin and whale watching along Caniçal or Câmara de Lobos.

dolphins floating along the tourist cruise boat, photography jumping dolphins

A boat cruise along the coasts of Caniçal or Câmara de Lobos is one of the most popular activities to do on Madeira Island.

As you set sail, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning coastal views and rugged cliffs that make the terrain so characteristically Madeira.

As you sail, you’ll drift past charming fishing villages and secluded coves. With any luck, you’ll spot some some dolphins, turtles, or maybe even whales!

Taking a boat cruise provides a unique vantage point to take in the beauty of Madeira from the sea, and the offshore breezes are a refreshing respite from the summer heat.

Here are our top choices for dolphin and whale watching tours from Funchal.

Drive along Estrada Monumental Scenic Route.

oceanside road going through madeira along the coast

You’ll need a car rental for this one, but if you have a car, the Estrada Monumental Scenic Route is an incredible stretch of road to drive along.

Starting in Funchal, this route winds its way around the south coast of Madeira for 10 km, providing a stunning panorama of cliffs, mountains, and valleys.

It provides a great opportunity to take spectacular pictures of the island’s lush natural scenery and beaches. The winding roads can be quite narrow at some points, so make sure to watch the curves.

Top Tip: Those looking for a place to stop along the way can take a break at the different Miradouros along the way. My favorite was the Winston Churchill viewpoint, a spot where the famous politician used to come and paint when visiting the island.

Shop and eat in Mercado dos Lavradores.

Fresh fruits and vegetables in the local market of Madeira, with colorful pink, orange, green and yellow fruits and vegetables.

If you want to immerse yourself in Madeira’s local culture, the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal’s city center is a must-visit spot with a dizzying array of local produce and handicrafts.

Visitors can pick up everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, exotic spices, handmade lace, embroidery, and pottery.

The market also offers an array of delicious local food specialties, including black scabbardfish, a local delicacy, and bolo do caco, or traditional Madeiran bread.

The colorful ambiance, the sound of vendors calling out their wares, and the delicious aromas of local cuisine make Mercado dos Lavradores an unforgettable sensory experience that is truly delightful.

It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours shopping, eating, and enjoying the authentic vibe that is unique to this volcanic island.

Top Tip: The market is open daily, except Sunday when it closes. It also closes early around noon on Saturday.

Also, I found the market relatively expensive compared to the supermarkets in the area, but knowing that you’re helping out the local economy, and the experience itself made it worth the price, so just keep that in mind.

Go hiking through Laurisilva Forest in Florestal das Queimadas.

old hut, cabin, house with thatched roof in the woods. Located in Madeira, Portugal in the park Florestal das Queimadas.

For nature lovers, hiking through the age-old Laurisilva Forest is an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into Madeira’s natural beauty.

This unique and ancient forest, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, stuns with its lush vegetation, biodiversity, and stunning landscapes.

As you hike, marvel at the majestic trees and navigate the trails that wind through the forest, hearing the native birds and animals along the way.

The charismatic beauty of the forest canopy is enchanting. Its unique tree formations, deep valleys, and waterfalls will transport you to a different era and truly appreciate the wonders of nature.

Top Tip: Here, you’ll need a car to drive the 1 hour from Funchal. You can park your car in the parking lot, but make sure to have the 3 Euros in cash since the machines don’t accept cards.

It’s worth noting that this place gets really busy during the weekends since it’s a favorite with locals, so steer clear to avoid crowds.

Take the scenic Monte Cable Car.

Cable car to Monte at Funchal, Madeira Island Portugal

For an aerial view of the stunning landscapes of Madeira, you simply must visit Monte and its scenic Cable Car should be the way to get you there!

Starting at the lower station in Funchal, the cable car brings you on a 15-minute trip up to the small village of Monte at 560 meters elevation.

As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the city, the harbor, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Once you reach the top, you can explore the charming village, which is home to the iconic Monte Palace Tropical Garden, and the magnificent Nossa Senhora do Monte Church.

The highlight, however, is undoubtedly the unforgettable journey back to Funchal on the Monte Cable Car.

The 3.9-kilometer journey takes you through lush greenery, and over ravines, and offers stunning panoramas of the island’s rugged coastline.

Top Tip: The cable car trip takes about 20 minutes and the tickets can be bought on the spot.

It’s also interesting to know that you can buy a ticket which will take you past Monte, out to the Madeira Botanical Gardens at the next stop.

This attraction is open from 9 am to 5:45 pm daily, and although a little expensive, it was one of my favorite things to do in Madeira.

Discover Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

The lake Monte Palace Tropican Garden with pools, architecture, lake, plants, view out to the ocean

Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a unique gem that cannot be missed when exploring the island of Madeira.

Home to over 100,000 plants from exotic bromeliads, towering cycads, and stunningly colorful orchids, you can easily lose yourself in the garden for hours.

There’s also a peaceful lake perfect for a picnic or relaxing break.

The garden is also home to a fascinating museum that houses an incredible collection of African art, including sculptures, masks, and pottery.

Truly, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a haven of peace and beauty, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature and culture like nowhere else.

Take a traditional wicker toboggan ride.

man wearing hat looking at his phone before taking guests on a wicker toboggan ride through madeira

One of the most unique things to do Madeira is to take a traditional wicker toboggan ride.

This exhilarating experience takes visitors on a thrilling journey down the steep streets of Funchal, as they ride in a traditional wicker basket called a “carro de cesto.”

The ride is guided by two expert drivers, who use their rubber-soled boots as brakes to steer the toboggan down the narrow, winding streets.

The crazy ride covers a distance of about 2 kilometers, offering riders stunning views of the city, and an experience truly unique to Madeira!

The tradition dates back to the early 19th century: once used as a form of transportation to get from Monte down the hill to Funchal, now a quirky tourist attraction!

Today, it’s one of the top activities in Madeira, offering a unique and unforgettable experience that blends history, culture, and adventure.

Top Tip: Get the cable car only one way, and ride the wicker toboggan back down from Monte to Funchal.

It takes about 10 minutes from Nossa Senhora do Monte church, but doesn’t take you all the way into town, so you’ll need to walk a little. So much fun!

Best Things to Do in Madeira FAQ

What is the most beautiful spot in Madeira?

view of the landscape in madeira with rugged cliffs and small coves and water of the ocean

The most beautiful spot in Madeira is Ponta de São Lourenço on the eastern tip of the island. It’s a nature reserve that encompasses an extensive volcanic landscape with dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and rugged terrain.

Popular activities at Ponta de São Lourenço include bird watching, strolling along its many trails, observing wildlife, and even swimming and sunbathing due to its mild climate year-round.

How many days are enough for Madeira?

view of Marina da Quinta Grande in madeira with beautiful blue waters and rugged landscape

Usually, between 3-7 days is enough time to see the best of Madeira. The island is quite small, so ypou can see a lot in just a few days.

However, it’s also very diverse with many different attractions from lush nature parks and scenic hiking trails to spectacular beaches and cultural sites.

With more time, you can explore further afield and truly get off the beaten path.

What is Madeira best known for?

Mosaic tile floor of Madeira downtown with lots of people celebrating for a festival — *Photo Credit: Yuni Navarro*

Besides its namesake wine, the island of Madeira is best known for its breathtaking nature (earning it the nickname ‘The Floating Garden’), its mild climate, and jaw-dropping landscapes.

There are also great events that are worth timing your visit to attend, such as the Flower Festival in May and The Madeira Wine Festival in August.

Just like on the Portuguese mainland, Madeira is also a fabulous place for yoga surf retreats if that’s your thing.

Why is Madeira so cheap?

Sandy beach landscape of Madeira with rugged cliff landscape behind it

Madeira is generally very affordable and budget-friendly due to its convenient location with plenty of budget airline flights, excellent public transportation, and wide variety of accommodation options, just like in mainland Portugal. Plus, its restaurant scene is also rather affordable.

Additionally, a weak euro exchange rate has made Madeira an even more desirable vacation destination for those outside of the EU by offering good value for money.

As a bonus, there are tax credits that you can use for tourism activities!

***

A beachcomber, an avid bookworm, and a teacher. Michelle is a Canadian travel blogger who writes about Ericeira.

She fell in love with the charming Portuguese village when she was enticed to move there by her Portuguese husband and never looked back.

She now lives between Mallorca and Ericeira, with her family and Fluffy the hamster.

Follow her adventures on Ericeirafamilyadventures.com.

Guest Contributor

Madeira Itinerary: A Road Trip Route for 3, 4, or 5 Days!

July 1, 2023June 29, 2023 by Roxana Fanaru

a woman standing underneath a waterfall in madeira island

Off the coast of Morocco, strewn in the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll find the Portuguese island of Madeira.

A diverse landscape — laurel forests, sheer cliff faces, towering waterfalls, and stunning beaches — makes the volcanic island of Madeira is the perfect destination to visit any time of the year!

I spent an incredible week doing a Madeira road trip in 2020, driving along the coast, hiking in the mountains, swimming in natural pools, and exploring delightful fishing villages.

The Madeira itinerary below is my condensed itinerary, designed for those who have a shorter time in Madeira, whether that’s 3, 4, or 5 days on the island.

view of marina da quinta grande in madeira

But you could easily spend two weeks in Madeira exploring the hiking trails and visiting charming towns.

Personally, I recommend spending at least four days on the island to see all the highlights and best things to do. However, if you’re short on time, three days are fine too.

I’ve included the absolute musts of a Madeira road trip route in the first three days of this itinerary.

The other two days of this Madeira itinerary allow you to explore a bit more of the island and try some really cool activities — if you can spare the time!

Luckily, the island is small, so you won’t need to drive long distances to see as much as possible (but you will want to rent a car — more on that here!)

Getting Around For This Madeira Road Trip

To be able to follow this itinerary for Madeira, you’ll need to rent a car.

The island is just not very accessible by public transportation, at least not in the short timeframes we’re dealing with, when we’re talking about 3 to 5 days in Madeira.

Luckily, driving in Madeira isn’t too difficult, but you’ll want to be sure you reserve your rental car in advance, especially during high season. Island inventories are always limited!

When looking for a rental car, I always use Discover Cars to search for the best deal for multiple reasons: namely, its larger inventory, its clear pricing, its cheap full coverage insurance, and its free cancellation policy.

🚗 Best Madeira Rental Car Prices: Discover Cars

This search engine not only looks at the typical rental car agencies (which can be $$$), it also looks at local, small Portuguese rental agencies that may offer better deals. Their pricing is straightforward (no bait-and-switches) and they offer free cancellation if you need it.

➜ Check rental prices in Madeira with Discover Cars here!

Tip: Make sure you book your car rental with full coverage insurance for peace of mind — it starts at only $7 per day, cheaper than you’d get at a rental agency!

Day 1 of Your Madeira Itinerary: Explore Funchal

the city center of funchal with trees and beautiful flowers and blue sky and free of people

The airport in Madeira is close to the island’s capital, Funchal.

The city is an ideal base to explore the whole island, as it’s perfectly located almost halfway along the southern coast.

You can dedicate your first day after landing to exploring the city, then go on day trips around the island.

Discover Funchal’s historic center.

the downtown of funchal with road signs painted on the road ground indicating one-way and no-traffic spots

Start by heading to the historical center of Funchal, where you can wander around the charming streets, visit beautiful churches, and stroll through lovely parks.

The city center is small and easy to explore on foot so you don’t need a car for this part of your Madeira itinerary.

First up is a visit to the Funchal Cathedral, a 15th-century Gothic church and one of the few buildings dating back to the period of the island’s colonization.

The cathedral features three naves and a decorated Mudéjar ceiling.

the ornate gilded interior of the funchal catehdral, with lots of altarpieces in the nave, wooden chairs that serve as pews, and otherwise white walls with wooden detail in the parts that are not decorative

The ceiling, beautifully restored in 2021, is illuminated during visiting hours, allowing you to appreciate its intricate details.

After visiting the cathedral, you can explore the surrounding area!

Stroll along the streets covered in the typical calçada portuguesa (decorative sidewalks) and check out the colonial architecture.

Not far from the cathedral, you can go shopping for local products at the Mercado dos Lavradores.

At the far east of Funchal Old Town, you can check out Forte de São Tiago, a seaside fortress painted in a bright yellow, once used to protect the city from pirate attacks.

the mustard yellow fort de sao tiago, against the backdrop of azure blue ocean and three sailboats in the distance

While you can’t access the interior of the fortress, you can wander around and even relax on the concrete beach right by it, where you can also go swimming.

Walk around Funchal’s Marina and head to the beautiful Santa Catarina Park.

The park looks more like a landscaped garden, with sculptures, colorful flower beds, curated walkways, and even a lovely little lake with swans and ducks.

Have lunch in Funchal’s Old Town.

historic street in the old town of funchal with cars parked on one side of the street, overcast sky, tree

Before you continue exploring the city, stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Old Town for a delicious chance to refuel.

Regional Flavours is a lively restaurant serving traditional Madeirense food, particularly delicious seafood dishes.

Be sure to try the tasty local bread, bolo do caco, and especially the swordfish with banana and passion fruit sauce!

Catch the cable car to Monte.

monte cable car in the center of funchal

After lunch, it’s time to enjoy a panoramic view of Funchal from above.

Catch the Funchal cable car and head up to Monte, a hilltop area known for its hiking trails, viewpoints, and beautiful gardens.

The ride up will already reward you with stunning city views, but the wonders of this experience are just beginning!

Note: The Monte cable car costs €12.50 for an adult ticket

Explore the Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

monte garden in madeira with beautiful landscape, ponds, and views

One of the main sights in the area is the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a gorgeous garden with multiple levels.

It houses a rich collection of tropical plants along with koi ponds and a lake with swans and ducks.

You can also admire beautiful peacocks and other birds roaming the garden.

Inside the garden, visit the Monte Palace Madeira Museum to check out beautiful sculptures and a collection of minerals from all over the world.

The entrance to the garden is €12.50 for adults, and it’s open daily except for Christmas Day.

Explore more of Monte.

Beautiful view of the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte church in Funchal on the island Madeira

There’s plenty of other things to see and do in the Monte area!

I highly recommend visiting the beautiful Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte and exploring the hiking trails.

The City Levada leads down to the beautiful Madeira Botanical Garden, another gorgeous garden worth visiting.

Head back to Funchal center in the quirkiest way possible.

a man waiting looking at his phone while wearing all white and a straw hat, next to a wicker basket used to transport tourists down the hill

A unique way to descend back to Funchal center is in a wicker basket!

That’s right, Madeira has a century-old tradition, that of the Monte toboggans or sledges, born as a quick way to reach Funchal from Monte.

This unique public transportation means originated in the early 19th century, but later became a tourist attraction for obvious reasons!

Two toboggan drivers, usually wearing white uniforms and straw hats, transport people downhill from the Monte church to the Livramento area in Funchal.

Try it for a fun and adrenaline-filled ride back to Funchal!

Go on a dolphin and whale watching tour.

The perfect way to end your first day in Madeira is with a dolphin and whale-watching tour!

You’ll find plenty of options in Funchal (here’s a guide to our favorite choices!), but be sure to book in advance, especially during the peak summer months.

If you visit Madeira between May and late September, you can join this 3-hour Sunset Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour starting at 6:30 PM.

You’ll head out to Cabo Girão where you can admire the dramatic coastline from the boat or even go swimming.

While wildlife sightings are not a guarantee, with a bit of luck, you’ll spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat!

You also get a complimentary drink to sip as you watch the sunset from the boat for a perfectly relaxing evening.

Book your sunset dolphin and whale watching cruise!

a madeira sailboat out on the water on a sunny, clear day

In winter, you may want to join an afternoon tour, like this 3-hour Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise, starting at 3 PM.

The cruise allows you to admire the beautiful coastline of Madeira and have a chance to spot dolphins, whales, and turtles.

If you choose this option, you may want to switch things around and visit Monte earlier, possibly before lunchtime, since you can’t go up by cable car after 6 PM.

Book your afternoon dolphin and whale watching catamaran cruise here!

Day 2 of Your Madeira Itinerary: Hiking in the Mountains

Madeira is famous for its spectacular hiking trails, and the best area is between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, two of the highest peaks on the island.

Luckily, Pico do Arieiro is easy to reach from Funchal, with just a 40-minute drive!

Hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo.

"Stairs to heaven" nicknamed for its breathtaking view at famous mountain footpath from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo on the Portuguese Madeira island

Pico do Arieiro is the third-highest peak on Madeira. Looking out from 1,818 meters, the mountain peak offers spectacular views over the clouds.

The great thing about this place is that you can drive nearly all the way up. From the parking lot, it’s just a short walk to the spectacular viewpoints.

For the best views, head up to the peak right before sunrise.

You’ll have to wake up very early, but watching the sun rising from the clouds is a sight you won’t soon forget.

There’s no reason you can’t do it on your own (except hitting the snooze button), but you can also do a guided sunrise hiking tour if you prefer transportation and a guide sorted for you, especially if you’re not a morning person.

Bring warm clothes even in summer as it can get very cold and windy at the top!

From Pico do Arieiro, you can follow a walking trail to the highest peak in Madeira, Pico Ruivo.

people on the summit of Pico Ruivo, climbing the final stone stairway to reach the top, for views over Madeira Island, high above the clouds

The trail, PR1 Vereda do Areeiro, can be a bit challenging, but if you’re even moderately fit, you should be able to do it.

Along the way, you’ll also come across Madeira’s second-highest peak, Pico das Torres.

The trail is around 7 km one way, which takes roughly 3.5 hours due to the changes in elevation.

Shortly after the trailhead, the path separates into two trails, one passing through Pico das Torres (east trail) and the other going straight to Pico Ruivo (west trail).

The west trail is the most recent, and despite being slightly shorter, it has steeper climbs.

Note that as of spring 2023, the east trail passing by Pico das Torres was closed.

If that’s still the case when you visit, you’ll have to return along the same trail.

Overall, the return hike will take between 7 and 8 hours, so plan accordingly.

If you get to Pico do Arieiro by sunrise, you’ll finish the hike by the early afternoon.

Oh, and remember: In any case, bring water and food to stay fueled on your hike!

Visit the charming Santana.

two colorful typical madeira houses with thatched roofs and birds of paradise flowers in front

If you have time and energy left after the hike, you can drive from Pico do Arieiro to Santana, Madeira’s most iconic village (and one of Portugal’s cutest villages, period!)

The drive only takes around 45 minutes and passes through the lush greenery of Parque Natural do Ribeiro Frio and along a portion of the northern coast.

The main reason to visit Santana is to admire the charming traditional houses.

The triangular houses with straw roofs look like something out of a fairytale, with the doors and windows painted beautifully in bright colors.

You can find these traditional houses surrounded by charming little gardens right in the center of Santana.

Before reaching Santana, you can stop to check out the lovely beach Praia do Faial and the nearby coastal viewpoint Miradouro do Guindaste.

the stunning view from Miradouro do Guindaste with high cliffs facing the atlantic ocean, Madeira Island

If you need a break or a pick-me-up, stop by Delicias da Bia for coffee and tasty baked goods.

Just south of Santana, you can explore the Aguage Waterfall.

If you’re looking for less touristy places to visit in Madeira, this is one of them.

Just park at the end of the road and follow the short trail to the waterfall — it’s half-mile roundtrip hike, with only about 90 feet of elevation change.

Certainly easier than the previous hike!

Have dinner in Funchal.

Alley in the old town with restaurants, by night, orange lamplight casting a color over the scene of people eating dinner late at night, Funchal, Madeira

Drive back to Funchal in time for dinner.

If you eat meat, La Vaca Negra is a great spot for delicious steaks.

If you prefer fish or international dishes like pasta or risotto, head to Leeno’s Bar & Restaurant.

They also have a few vegetarian options.

Day 3 of Your Madeira Itinerary: Explore Madeira’s Coastline

After hiking in the mountains, it’s time to enjoy Madeira’s beautiful coast!

If the weather is good enough, we’ll also go for a relaxing swim in some natural pools.

Visit Seixal.

Amazing nature landscape in Seixal, Madeira, Portugal, europe with natural lava rock swimming pool

Continue your Madeira road trip by driving around 50 minutes from Funchal to Seixal, a small coastal town in northwestern Madeira.

The town features a beautiful promenade offering sweeping coastal views, but it’s better known for its gorgeous natural pools.

The best thing about Seixal’s natural pools is that they are free to access!

Park your car at the parking lot of Poça do Mata Sete and check out the various pools all around.

Depending on the season of your visit, you may be lucky enough to have the place all to yourself.

Stop by Ribeira da Janela.

Girl looking at Ribeira da Janela islet between a cave in Madeira, through an arch, looking at the sea

Driving farther west toward Porto Moniz, you’ll pass by the small town of Ribeira da Janela.

In the upper part of town, stop by Miradouro da Eira da Achada to enjoy the coastal view.

The town overlooks a set of sea stacks just off the coast, jutting up from the sea like a hand jutting up from the sea.

Drive down to the coast and be sure to enjoy the lovely view from Miradouro Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela.

Swim in the natural pools of Porto Moniz.

Lava pools in Porto Moniz, Madeira, with ramps and stairway accesses to the pools

After Ribeira da Janela, drive for 10 minutes to Porto Moniz.

The main attraction in town is the complex of natural pools formed within the volcanic rock formations, made more accessible with paved access and stair entries into the pools.

Unlike those in Seixal, the natural pools in Porto Moniz have a small entry fee of €3.

However, the pools are much bigger and better maintained than those in Seixal and the volcanic rocks around the pools create a truly marvelous scenic view!

You can spend a couple of hours sunbathing and swimming in the refreshing waters of the natural pools, then go for lunch.

Sea View Restaurante is conveniently located right by the pools, serving delicious seafood dishes with a beautiful view.

Another option, Conchinha, is a great alternative for tasty sandwiches, salads, and tapas.

Catch the Achadas da Cruz cable car.

Achadas da Cruz cable railway near Porto Moniz, with the scenery of Madeira's coastline in the background

After lunch, drive for around 20 minutes to Achadas da Cruz.

The small town is best known for the spectacular cable car connecting the upper town to the coastal hamlet Fajã da Quebrada Nova.

The cable car ride goes down an extremely steep cliff and provides stunning views.

Once you get down, you can enjoy a pleasant ride along the coast and through the tranquil little hamlet.

Just note that the cable car may not run if it’s very windy, so check the weather before you go!

It’s also a great deal compared to the Monte cable car — a return ride is only €5!

Drive along the southern coast, stopping at Ponta do Pargo.

Farol da Ponta do Pargo Ilha da Madeira. Lighthouse Ponta do Pargo

From Achadas da Cruz, drive along the southern coast toward Funchal.

Depending on how much time you have, you can stop at several places along the way.

However, I recommend planning this so you can reach Cabo Girão in time for a beautiful sunset.

The drive from Achadas da Cruz to Cabo Girão takes around one hour without stopping.

The first stop is Ponta do Pargo, where you can check out the lighthouse and some truly spectacular views from Farol da Ponta do Pargo.

Continue on to Jardim do Mar.

Jardim do Mar village with Promenade at beautiful coast of Madeira island, brilliant blue sea and paved pathway with palm tree and rocky terrain at the end of the path

Next, drive by the quaint fishing village of Paul do Mar (stopping if you want to) and further along the coast to Jardim do Mar.

In Jardim do Mar, you can walk along the beautiful seaside promenade and wander through the narrow alleyways lined with beautiful flowers.

If you have time for a little break, check out the delightful Maktub Guest House and have a refreshing drink or a tasty dessert in their lovely garden.

See one of Madeira’s prettiest waterfalls.

girl with her hands raised, hair wet, underneath the Cascata dos Anjos waterfall in madeira, on the cliffside road

Keep driving east along the coast, and you’ll pass by one of the most spectacular sights in Madeira.

Roughly 15 minutes from Jardim do Mar, you’ll come across Cascata dos Anjos, a waterfall cascading off the cliff directly onto the road.

When I visited this place, you could literally drive through the waterfall!

However, the popularity of the place and the danger of falling rocks have since led to the closure of the road to vehicles.

Pedestrian access is still allowed, but you should prepare for crowds of people.

Watch the sunset from Cabo Girão.

view from the side of the cabo girao skywalk

Cabo Girão is a great spot to watch the sunset in Madeira, both for its location and for its epic viewing platform!

The Cabo Girão Skywalk is a modern observation deck with a glass platform overlooking the ocean.

This is one of the best coastal views in Madeira and is easily accessible by car!

Note that there’s a small fee, €2, to access the Skywalk.

Have dinner in Câmara de Lobos.

view of camara de lobos fishing village in madeira

For a change of scenery, you can stop off for dinner in Câmara de Lobos, a small town just 10 minutes before Funchal.

The charming seaside town was the landing place of João Gonçalves Zarco, the Portuguese explorer who discovered Madeira.

The town is also known for a life-size statue of Winston Churchill, who visited Madeira in 1950.

In the bay area, close to Churchill’s statue, you can find many wonderful restaurants where you can stop for dinner.

Minerva is a great spot offering all kinds of dishes, including vegetarian options.

Day 4 of Your Madeira Itinerary: Coastal Walks

If you only have one more day to spend in Madeira, you can explore the eastern coastline.

In particular, we’ll focus on the beautiful Ponta de São Lourenço!

Walk the Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço.

Landscape and Rock formations at the coast of Ponta de São Lourenço, with people walking along the path as well, on a sunny day

From Funchal, drive for around 40 minutes until you reach the roundabout where you can park your car and begin the Ponta de São Lourenço trail.

The hiking trail is easy to walk and easy to follow, with clear signs as well as many portions of walkways and stairs.

The return hike takes around two hours without stops, but you’ll come across many gorgeous viewpoints that you’ll just have to stop for!

So ignore the 2-hour guideline and basically plan on spending the entire morning here.

At Miradouro de São Lourenço you can check out spectacular rock formations emerging from the deep blue water, and maybe descend to the wild São Lourenço Beach.

view of sea stacks at the end of the Miradouro de São Lourenço with wild atlantic ocean waves beating against the landscape and creating erosion over time

Before the last portion, which is the steepest, you’ll come across a small café, Casa do Sardinha.

This is the only café around, so expect the food to be overpriced.

However, you can have a coffee or a drink before you continue the hike. Personally, I’d recommend bringing a few snacks instead of buying food here.

The last climb will lead you to Miradouro Ponta do Furado, where you can enjoy sweeping views of Madeira’s dramatic coastline. In front of you, the deserted Ilhéu da Cevada stretches into the Atlantic Ocean.

After taking some time to check out the view, walk back to the car and drive to your next destination.

Have lunch in Caniçal.

Beach of Canical near Ponta de Sao Lourenco in Madeira, Portugal with gorgeous landscape and dark sand and a small beach shack or restaurant

The charming Caniçal is a small coastal village 10 minutes from Ponta de São Lourenço.

The fishing village is maybe best known for the Whale Museum, an innovative museum dedicated to the history of whaling, which was once the village’s core activity.

The museum now promotes scientific research and conservation projects to protect marine life in Madeira.

You can visit the museum or explore the fishing village and stop for lunch.

Try the fish dishes at Tasquinha do Pescador or grab a quick bite at Tasca do Samão.

Relax by the pool or go hiking in Porto da Cruz.

From Caniçal, drive north to Porto da Cruz.

Here, you can choose between relaxing at the beautiful public swimming pool or hiking up the impressive mountain peak Penha de Águia.

The hike is quite steep and challenging, but it rewards visitors with awe-inspiring views.

The full hike is quite intense — only 4 miles long return but gaining 5,000 feet of altitude in that period — so it’s only for expert hikers.

You can also just go as far as you want and stop and turn around after you’ve had enough!

If you prefer spending a few hours soaking in the sun, check out the Piscina do Porto da Cruz.

There is a small entry fee (about one euro), but you can stay as long as you want and swim in lovely pools overlooking the little bay.

If you want to enjoy a lovely view from above without hiking Penha de Águia, head to Cabeço do Cerrado viewpoint, just a 5-minute drive from the center of Porto da Cruz.

Another lovely viewpoint is Pico do Fortim, which you can easily reach on foot from the public pool.

Visit the Cristo Rei and have dinner in Caniço.

The Christ the King statue is a Catholic monument on Madeira island, seen at sunset, with the large statue against the horizon

Before returning to Funchal, head to Caniço to enjoy the sunset from the Cristo Rei.

Like Lisbon, Madeira has its own statue of “Christ the King”.

The statue was built in 1927, four years before the ultra-famous Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro.

After enjoying the beautiful coastal views in the soft sunset light, head to the center of Caniço for dinner.

Go to A Traineira for a great choice of delightful seafood, or try the cozy La Terraça for traditional dishes, from seafood and meat to tasty vegetarian tapas.

Day 5 of Your Madeira Itinerary: Choose Your Adventure!

For your fifth and final day in Madeira, you’ve got your choice between nature, culture, and wine!

Whether you want to explore more natural sights, check out museums and parks in Funchal, or go on a wine tasting tour, here are 3 ideas for your final day of this Madeira itinerary.

Discover Madeira’s waterfalls.

Madeira waterfall - 25 Fontes or 25 Springs in English, with lots of small waterfalls dripping into a natural pool, with lush greenery around the spring

If you want to explore more natural sights and check out some of the most impressive waterfalls in Madeira, drive west and inland.

Prepare for some spectacular hikes immersed in the lush vegetation of the Valley of Rabaçal!

The two main trails are Levada das 25 Fontes and Levada do Risco.

The first trail is just over 4 km long and takes around three hours out and back.

You’ll walk through the impressive Laurissilva Forest along beautiful trails until you reach the stunning lagoon and waterfall.

After admiring, and maybe bathing in, the Lagoa das 25 Fontes, head back along the same trail until you find the fork and take the path to the Risco Waterfall.

huge tall waterfall with misty landscape in the mountains

This trail is shorter and easier. You’ll walk through a similar landscape and reach the spectacular waterfall in under one hour.

These trails are both quite popular, so be prepared for crowds, especially if you visit during peak season.

Since you’ll be spending several hours in nature, bring plenty of water and some food.

Spend the day in Funchal.

a very narrow and steep road in madeira's main city of funchal, with plants growing on the sides of buildings

An alternative to exploring the waterfalls is to spend the day in Funchal and check out some museums and any parks or gardens you didn’t manage to visit on the first day.

This is a great option if the weather is not ideal for walking around or you’re too tired for more hiking.

To learn about Madeira’s history, visit the interactive museum Madeira Story Centre.

If you like art, check out the beautiful collection at the Sacred Art Museum of Funchal.

If you have a passion for soccer, there’s an entire museum dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Madeira is Ronaldo’s birthplace, and you can see how much pride locals take in this fact from the big statue outside the museum!

view of two glasses of madeira wine next to cups of coffee, on a table on a terrace, with a view of funchal behind it

Another great way to get to know Funchal is to join a guided tour like this Food and Wine Walking Tour.

During the 3-hour activity, you’ll learn about Funchal’s history and admire its architecture while stopping along the way for 11 food and 6 drink tastings, including seafood, sweets, wine, and the local drink, poncha!

Book your history, food, and wine walking tour here!

Join a full-day wine tour.

View of house and vineyard in mountain village in northern part of Madeira island, Portugal

You can find many full-day wine tours departing from Funchal, perfect for an easy day exploring Madeira’s wineries!

This 8-hour Wine Tour with Lunch takes you on a culinary excursion of western Madeira, starting from Câmara de Lobos and passing through São Vicente and Porto Moniz.

You get to visit vineyards, enjoy tasty local products, appreciate stunning coastal views, and learn about local wine production.

Book your full-day wine tour with lunch here!

Vineyard at the Levada do Norte on Madeira

This Skywalk & Madeira Wine Tasting Tour is a great alternative and includes stops in the beautiful Serra d’Água, Paúl da Serra, Porto Moniz, and São Vicente.

The tour also includes a stop at Cabo Girão, in case you didn’t see it on the third day.

This tour includes plenty of wine and local product tastings as well!

Book your Madeira wine tasting and Skywalk tour here!

Where to Stay in Madeira

This Madeira itinerary has you staying in Funchal for the duration of your trip.

Even if you’re doing a Madeira road trip, Funchal’s central location means that it’s more convenient to return there each night instead of moving location every night or every other night.

Budget: Hotel Madeira

Hotel Madeira is surprisingly budget-friendly given its amenities and location!

Situated just a bit outside of the city center (but not too far a walk), the hotel provides a peaceful and relaxed environment.

Even though it’s a fairly affordable hotel, you can still enjoy a small rooftop pool complete with sun loungers offer a refreshing escape, the perfect place to relax after a busy day.

The rooms at Hotel Madeira have been recently given a refresh, designed with a funky and colorful touch.

Despite their size, the rooms are thoughtfully decorated, with little colorful details that add a touch of personality.

Perfect for those who want to get up and go, Hotel Madeira offers a free breakfast that provides you with the fuel you need to tackle this Madeira itinerary!

Check availability, prices, room types, and reviews here!

Mid-Range: Barceló Funchal Oldtown

Barceló Funchal Oldtown offers a delightful mid-range place to stay in Funchal with all the amenities you’d need.

The best part is its outdoor rooftop swimming pool, complete with comfortable beds for lounging, sun chairs, and a bar, where guests can sip cocktails and admire the city views.

The hotel’s lobby area has a funky, contemporary design, with modern furniture and an artistic chandelier, which extends into another bar area.

The rooms at Barceló Funchal Oldtown are spacious and minimalist, featuring working areas, flat-screen TVs, and some even have balconies.

The modern, marble bathrooms are equipped with step-in rain showers and modern vanities for a spa-like home experience.

Additionally, breakfast is included, for a delicious and easy start to each day!

Check availability, prices, room types, and reviews here!

Luxury: Savoy Palace

The Savoy Palace is the perfect Funchal luxury hotel, as it’s part of the Leading Hotels of the World brand, which guarantees a world-class experience for its guests.

The hotel has several outdoor swimming pools to choose from — some heated for year-round enjoyment!

The clear highlight is the rooftop infinity pool, where guests can swim while enjoying breathtaking views of the Atlantic, creating the perfect backdrop for capturing epic photos and unforgettable memories.

The hotel also features a vast rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Funchal city.

For those seeking even more relaxation than a pool can offer, the spa area offers a range of amenities for an extra charge, including an indoor plunge pool, hot tub, hammam, sauna, and massage rooms.

Other amenities include on-site parking and a complimentary breakfast.

The rooms at the Savoy are gorgeous, with huge spacious rooms and luxurious furnishings that don’t feel overdone.

Mostly, the focus is on the windows and the beautiful views just outside them: some even have floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal sea views.

The bathrooms are also are designed to provide a spa-like experience, complete with two sinks, spacious showers, and some even offering soaking tubs for ultimate relaxation.

Check availability, prices, room types, and reviews here!

Roxana is a Romanian-born freelance travel writer who has lived in Italy for over 15 years. She has a Master’s in Journalism and a Bachelor’s in Film Studies, and she studied at Università degli Studi di Roma Tre. Besides her native Romania, Roxana has lived in Rome, Lisbon, and Berlin, and she has traveled through much of Europe in search of hidden gems, history, and culture.

11 Madeira Wine Tours: Funchal Wine Tasting & Vineyard Tours [2023]

July 1, 2023June 29, 2023 by Allison Green

madeira wine tasting samples at a local tour

Madeira wine tasting is a must do while you’re visiting the island!

Don’t think of just your standard wine tasting tour here — Madeira has a variety of small group and private, as well as half-day and full-day experiences, with a tour to suit every taste and preference.

For those who enjoy a leisurely pace and the joy of discovering local flavors on foot, food and wine walking tours offer a delightful way to experience Madeira’s culinary delights alongside wine tastings.

If you want deeper understanding of how Madeira’s wines are made, vineyard tours are the perfect way to learn about the unique terroir and winemaking process of these special wines.

For those seeking a more adventurous and unconventional approach, 4×4 tours with wine tastings offer an exciting blend of off-road exploration and wine appreciation.

Traverse rugged terrains, visit breathtaking viewpoints, and cap off the exhilarating journey with a delicious Madeira wine tasting!

Alternatively, for a romantic and unforgettable experience, there’s even a sailing tour with wine tasting!

No matter which tour you choose, these Madeira wine tours celebrates the island’s unique flavors, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes — it’s just a matter of which speaks to you most.

With so many different ways to explore Madeira’s vineyards, of all the things to do in Madeira, wine tasting has got to be on your list!

How is Madeira Wine Made?

The art of making Madeira wine is a labor of love: each step is fundamental to creating the sweet, complex layered flavors that are associated with Portugal’s famed dessert wine.

On a Madeira wine tour, you’ll learn every step, from harvest to bottling.

Once the ripest fruit is picked, the grapes are crushed and then fermented in stainless steel. Now, here is where Madeira wine differs from traditional wines: it is now fortified, typically with a neutral grape spirit like brandy.

Why? The infusion of brandy not only raises the alcohol content, but it also provides the young Madeira wine strength, structure, and complexity that will support its aging process.

At a minimum, Madeira wine needs to be aged for three years — this time in oak barrels, where it can pick up on those lovely oak aromas, like vanilla and butter.

But here’s where things get quirky and distinctly Portuguese: the estufagem process. This process involves purposely heating the wine to high temperatures over the course of months.

Most winemakers would cover their eyes in fear here, but this is what’s needed in order for Madeira wine to develop that distinctive caramelized flavor and scent.

Finally, after all that, winemakers will blend together several different vintages until the flavor desired is achieve.

All of the above is science: now it comes down to art, as the wine producers decide which percentages of which vintages create the most complex, delicious wine — not to mention one that has the potential to age further.

My Top 3 Picks: Madeira Wine Tours

No time to read the full article about these wine tours and just want my top 3 picks and the highlights of each?

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Full-Day Madeira Wine Tour with Lunch
✔️ Full day tour with 3 wineries

✔️ Farm-to-table lunch included

#2 PICK

Food and Wine Walking Tour of Funchal
✔️ Taste 11 food samples and 6 drinks, including Madeira
✔️ 3-hour tour that covers historic center

#3 PICK

Madeira Skywalk, Valleys, & Wine Tasting from Funchal
✔️ 4×4 tour of Madeira with Skywalk visit
✔️ Wine tasting from a top Madeira producer

Check availability and more details of this winery tour here!

The Best Madeira Wine Tours

1. Full-Day Madeira Wine Tour with Lunch from Funchal

Time: 8 hours | Reviews: 4.9/5 stars (70+ reviews) | Book Now!

Looking for a fun-filled day of wine tasting in Madeira? Look no further than this full day tour of Madeira’s wine region!

As you explore three distinct wineries, you’ll also take breaks to enjoy the gorgeous scenery — from the coastline of São Vicente to the laurel forests of Madeira.

Transport is included, so once you get picked up at the meeting point in Funchal, you’ll head to Câmara de Lobos for your first vineyard visit.

(Even if you’ve rented a car in Madeira, taking a wine tour is a great idea so you don’t have to deal with having a designated driver)

There, you’ll meet a local wine producer who will take you through the Madeira winemaking process step by step.

You’ll start with a visit to winemaker in Câmara de Lobos, the main winemaking region in Madeira, where you’ll learn all about this special fortified wine.

After your first tasting, you’ll stop at a local house for a meal made from local farm-to-table ingredients — all paired with some of the region’s finest wines, naturally.

Next up, you’ll visit a modern winery in Porto Moniz, where you’ll taste a different side of Madeiran wine: tropical white wines with plenty of acidity, structured but fruity rosé, and rich red wines.

As the day draws to a close (and your eyes glaze over with sleepiness from all those tastings), you’ll stop at one last winery for a final tasting.

Everything, from transit to lunch to wine tastings, are included, so you won’t have to worry about a thing. Just show up at Blandy’s Wine Lodge, and let the adventure begin!

2. Food and Wine Walking Tour of Funchal

Time: 3 hours | Reviews: 4.8/5 stars (160+ reviews) | Book Now!

For a fun and tasty way to explore the city, look no further than this food and wine tasting tour of Funchal, all done on foot.

This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the local flavors and wines of Madeira without dedicating a full day of their Madeira trip to go and visit the vineyards.

Packing a ton into a 3-hour punch, this food and wine tour is easy to fit into even the tightest Madeira schedule.

But don’t worry — you won’t miss out, with a tour that stops at nine different spots, offering a generous sampling of 11 different kinds of food and six drink tastings, including the famous Madeira wine tasting.

But this tour isn’t just about the wine – you’ll also get to taste local traditional products, giving you a true taste of Madeira. From Madeira cookies to a visit to a local chocolate factory, this tour has it all.

Among the many stops on this food and wine walking tour, you’ll visit a traditional regional restaurant, a local grocery store (with a taste of the sugar cane spirit called poncha), a tea house, a local market, a typical bar, and Blandy’s Wine Lodge — an internationally-renowned favorite.

Check availability and details of this food & wine tour here!

3. Madeira Food, Wine & Culture Walking Tour

Time: 4 hours | Reviews: 4.7/5 stars (130+ reviews) | Book Now!

For a more leisurely paced itinerary, this 4-hour, 7-stop walking tour of Funchal is the perfect way to incorporate some Madeira wine tasting with exploring the local gastronomy!

Compared to the above tour — packing 11 stops into a mere 3 hours — this tour is slow-paced and relaxed.

This tour definitely caters to sweet tooths: you’ll get to try artisanal chocolates and the tasty local custard tart, pastel de nata. And of course, when we’re talking sweet, we can’t forget the delicious Madeira dessert wine!

You’ll also get to try Portuguese tea (also produed on Madeira — one of the few places in Europe where tea is produced, besides the Azores, another Portuguese archipelago).

Beyond the fortified wine of Madeira Island, you’ll also try a non-fortified local wine, as well as poncha, the local sugarcane spirit.

It’s not just sweets and drinks — you’ll also have a more savory sit-down meal at a regional restaurant, featuring some of Madeira’s best-known dishes.

And if you’re veg, gluten-free, or don’t drink, just let the company know ahead of time, so they can accommodate you, as they want everyone to enjoy Madeira’s flavors!

Check availability and details of this food and wine tour here!

4. Madeira Skywalk, Valleys, & Wine Tasting from Funchal

Time: 4 hours | Reviews: 4.9/5 stars (310+ reviews) | Book Now!

Wine not add a little adventure to your vinho experience?

Embark on a thrilling 4-hour adventure on an open-roof 4×4 tour and wine tasting through the stunning landscapes of Madeira, leaving from Funchal.

Get ready to explore some of the most breathtaking views in the region, including the famous Boca dos Namorados (Lovers’ Mouth) landscape, located 1,000 feet above sea level.

From there, you’ll get a glimpse of the impressive Nun’s Valley (a bit ironic, given the whole Lovers’ Mouth and all, but we’ll let them have it, I guess) and the the Eira do Serrado viewpoint.

Next on the tour, it’s time to experience the stunning glass floor of the Cabo Girão Skywalk, located an impressive 1,900 feet up!

Brace yourself for the incredible vistas that surround you at this altitude – the mountains, the Atlantic, and beyond.

After that, take a break and relax with a cup of coffee in the idyllic town of Jardim da Serra.

Here, you can also get your morning started with a kick by trying poncha, a traditional drink made with distilled sugar cane liquor, mixed with honey, lemon peel, and other fruit.

And of course — the reason why you wanted a Madeira wine tour in the first place — a tasting from one of the top producers on the island in the cute fishing town of Câmara de Lobos.

This tour isn’t the one you want if you only want to focus on Madeira wine and exploring its vineyards and cellars — but if you want a well-rounded tour that combines some of Madeira’s attractions as well as its wine, this is a great choice.

Check availability and details of this 4×4 and wine tour!

5. Nature & Wine 4×4 Tour from Funchal or Caniço

Vineyards in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, Madeira

Time: 4 hours | Reviews: 4.7/5 stars (150+ reviews) | Book Now!

Here’s another option for a 4×4 wine tour of Madeira, where the off-roading meets wine-tasting in a magical blend of excitement and relaxation.

Compared to the one above, though, this one focuses a lot more on the wines itself, including a vineyard visit.

This 4-hour tour is the perfect opportunity to indulge in some of Madeira’s finest wine while also getting to take in the views of Madeira you’d never see from a rental car (not without a hefty damage bill, at least).

This small, intimate group tour will get your engine revving with an exhilarating off-road journey through Serra d’Agua.

Take in the stunning views of Porto Moniz, Ribeira da Janela, Paul da Serra, and São Vicente as you tear through the dirt roads in a professionally-manned 4×4 vehicle (don’t worry — insurance is included).

To decompress from all that high-adrenaline adventure, next, you’ll take guided tour through lush Madeira vineyards, where you’ll learn about the production process and taste some of the best wines in Madeira.

You’ll be guided by a professional oenologist (that’s Latin for wine geek) who will share their expertise and knowledge of the delicious drink.

And to top it all off, you’ll end the day at Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff, where you can marvel at the panoramic views and capture stunning pictures for your social media.

The tour starts at 2 PM, only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays (so plan accordingly), and can pick you up from either Funchal or Caniço.

And with the tour wrapping up around 6 PM, you’ll have plenty of time to continue your wine adventure, eat a fantastic meal, scout out a great sunset spot, or explore more of Madeira’s wonders.

Check details of this Madeira wine tour here!

6. Private Half-Day Winery Tour with Pickup Anywhere on the Island

two glasses of madeira wine at a tasting area with two people blurry in the background

Time: 3 hours | Reviews: 5/5 stars (7+ reviews) | Book Now!

Wouldn’t it be di-vine to treat yourself to a half-day of wine tasting in a private group?

This 3-hour private small-group (capped at 4 people) Madeira winery tour is all about learning about the rich history (and taste) of the island’s finest wines.

You’ll visit the Henriques & Henriques winery, where you can go on a guided tour of the facility and learn from your tour guide about the different types of grapes used in Madeira wine, the various flavor profiles each grape lends the wine, and how the fortification process and aging process works.

Pickup is available in Funchal, Canico, and Camara de Lobos, with morning (10 AM, 10:30 AM) or afternoon (2 PM, 2:30 PM) options available.

And if you’re further afield, they’ll actually pick you up anywhere on the island (including Funchal Port if you’re doing a cruise and this is a shore excursion) at an added price.

Northeast, Southeast, Southwest Madeira: they’ve got you covered.

And the best part is that this tour is relatively inexpensive! It’s only about 30 euro per person if you’re a group of four in Funchal, making it an affordable and accessible Madeira tasting experience for wine enthusiasts on a budget.

To top off this already amazing experience, you’ll stop at Rancho Viewpoint for one last glimpse of the stunning scenery of Câmara de Lobos, the Atlantic Ocean, and the cliff of Cabo Girão before being returned home.

Check details of this private Madeira wine tasting!

7. Half-Day Small-Group Wine Tour in Madeira

Time: 4 hours | Reviews: 4.5/5 stars (10+ reviews) | Book Now!

This half-day Madeira wine tour promises an educational experience above all, as you’ll meet a local wine producer and a professionally trained oenologist to learn all the unique intricacies of Madeira’s unique winemaking process.

You’ll learn all about the wines that thrive in Madeira’s volcanic soil, as well as the techniques involved in producing Madeira’s wines.

After learning about the wines, you’ll have a chance to taste it for yourself, appreciating the distinctive flavors that set Madeira wines apart, including dry and sweet wines.

To complement the wine tasting experience, a delicious array of local tapas will be served, paired to enhance the flavors of the wines.

After the winery visit, you’ll get a chance to see two of Madeira’s most scenic viewpooints: a visit to Cabo Girão, one of the world’s highest sea cliffs (note: the SkyWalk costs 2 euros to visit) as well as the picturesque village of Camara De Lobos.

Also, be aware that lunch is not included in the tour, but since the tour leaves at 9 AM and arrives back at 1 PM, you can easily eat lunch back in town after the tour concludes.

Check details of this Madeira wine tour from Funchal here!

8. Madeira Half-Day Sightseeing Private Tour with Wine Tasting

Rows of grapes in a vineyard in Sao Vicente, Madeira island, Portugal

Time: 4 hours | Reviews: 4/5 stars (10+ reviews) | Book Now!

Ideal for those who want a more intimate experience, this private half-day Madeira wine and sightseeing tour is perfect for groups of up to 8 people.

Discover the island’s hidden gems as you venture into charming mountain villages like Monte.

Here, you can immerse yourself in local culture and even opt in on the exhilarating traditional sledge ride (additional fee of approximately 25 euros for 2 people) down the steep hill!

Continuing on the tour, you’ll traverse Madeira’s winding roads, awestruck by the stunning vistas from Eira do Serrado and other points along the route.

At the end of the tour, you’ll head back to Funchal, where you’ll enjoy a Madeira wine tasting experience, tasting the local fortified wine and learning about its unique production process from experts.

Check details of this sightseeeing tour & Funchal wine tasting here!

9. Private Cruise with Wine Tasting in Funchal Bay

sailboat in the madeira waters on a sunny day with very few clouds

Time: 3 hours | Reviews: 5/5 stars (10+ reviews) | Book Now!

Experience a private 3-hour sailing and wine tour of Madeira, tailor-made for an intimate and romantic couple’s adventure!

Step aboard a private boat in the picturesque Bay of Funchal, hoping to see dolphins or even whales!

The tour is perfectly timed to coincide with a breathtaking sunset — and with time for a swim in the crystal-clear waters if you wish!

Onboard, try delicious wines from the Terra Bona local winery, paired with local savory snacks.

To add a touch of decadence to the end of your wine tasting, you’ll delight in the dessert treat of chocolates from UAUCACAU, a local producer renowned for their unique chocolate truffle creations.

The combination of scenic sailing at sunset, Madeira wine tasting, and tantalizing local treats — it’s the perfect date night or special occasion celebration.

For those looking to share this remarkable experience with more friends or family, the tour offers the option to upgrade and include additional passengers.

Check details of this sailing tour and wine tasting here!

10. Private Half-Day Tour of Wine Fields in Madeira + SkyWalk

Time: 4 hours | Reviews: 5/5 stars (2+ reviews) | Book Now!

Embark on a private tour of the breathtaking vineyards of Madeira, traversing the rugged terrain in a 4×4 Jeep.

This exclusive adventure, limited to a group size of 4 people, combines the expertise of a specialized private nature tourism company with the indulgence of wine tasting!

You’ll begin your journey at Estreito de Camara de Lobos, where the largest wine growing region of Madeira awaits.

Next, brace yourself for an exhilarating 4×4 off-road tour through awe-inspiring landscapes, leading you to a magnificent viewpoint at Cabo Girão.

Prepare to be amazed as you step onto the Skywalk (additional 2 euro fee), suspended high above the dramatic cliffs, offering unparalleled vistas of the sparkling ocean below.

Conclude your tour with a delightful Madeira wine tasting experience, learning about how the wine gets it distinctive flavors and aromas.

Families: please note that children must be 6 years or older to participate in this tour!

Check details of this private 4×4 Madeira wine tour!

11. Full Day Vineyard Guided Tour with Lunch

Vineyard next to the ocean on the north coast of Madeira

This full-day private tour of the vineyards of Madeira is designed for true oenophiles, for whom a half-day tour just isn’t enough!

This 8-hour adventure promises an extensive tasting of a remarkable 15 different wines from two different Madeira wine producers, allowing you to explore all the flavors that Madeira has to offer — not just its fortified wines but its other offerings as well.

The tour begins in the charming village of Câmara de Lobos, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample wines from an acclaimed still wine producer, known for making the best white wines on the island!

From there, journey to another winery in São Vicente, where the owner of the winery will prepare a traditional Madeiran lunch using local ingredients, designed to pair perfectly with the wines you’ll be tasting.

Check details of this private full day Madeira wine tasting tour!

Renting a Car in Madeira: 13 Practical Tips for Driving in Madeira [2023]

July 1, 2023June 28, 2023 by Roxana Fanaru

Got a ticket booked to the lovely island of Madeira, but not sure whether or not you should rent a car to make the most of your trip?

I’ve got you covered!

I lived in Lisbon, Portugal, for over two years and during that time, I traveled all around the mainland and Portuguese islands.

That includes the gorgeous Madeira, where I spent a week exploring the island by car.

Along with the Azores, Madeira is one of two of Portugal’s two autonomous regions, stunning archipelagos sprawled across the wild Atlantic.

With pleasant weather nearly year-round, charming fishing towns, stunning beaches, and a variety of hiking trails, Madeira’s got a little something for everyone in every season.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about renting a car in Madeira, from my own personal experience.

That includes practical information about the rental process to Madeira driving rules and tips to make the most of your road trip!

Is Renting a Car in Madeira Necessary?

view of a road in madeira with a stunning view of the ocean in the distance

If you want to explore more than just the island’s capital city, Funchal, you need a car — unless you want to be reliant on guided tours for the entirety of your trip.

Some guided tours are helpful — you can’t go whale and dolphin watching on your own, for example — but others aren’t necessary if you have a rental car, like hiking tours.

While there are buses connecting the major towns across the island, most of the best places to visit will require a car.

With a car, you’ll have the freedom to get around without worrying about bus schedules, explore places off the beaten track, and enjoy the stunning landscapes as you drive around.

You can skip renting a car for the time you spend in Funchal, but other than that, it’s pretty much vital.

Where to Rent a Car in Madeira

There are two main spots for car rentals on the island: Funchal city center and Madeira’s airport, both which have a good range of car rental options.

But which to choose?

Renting a car in Funchal may be more convenient if you just want a car for a portion of your stay.

The downside is that this involves driving smack-dab in the city center, which can be slightly more stressful — plus, Funchal is rather hilly, making it not an ideal place to get your bearings!

Being the capital of the island and all, you’ll find the traffic is a little more chaotic, but if you avoid the historical center, you can get around just fine.

Renting a car at the airport, on the other hand, is easy and stress-free, since you can get your car as soon as you land — and often has more inventory.

Another perk is that you’ll start out driving on big roads, with lighter traffic and plenty of time to get used to the car.

If you choose this option and want to spend some time in Funchal, you may want to drop off the car at the airport before exploring the city in your final few days, then just take a cab to the airport for your departure.

When looking for a rental car anywhere in Europe (including Madeira!), I always use Discover Cars to search for the best deal for multiple reasons: namely, its larger inventory, its clear pricing, its cheap full coverage insurance (a must), and its free cancellation policy.

Tip: Make sure you book your car rental with full coverage insurance for peace of mind — it starts at only $7 per day, cheaper than you’d get at a rental agency!

Is Renting a Car in Madeira Expensive?

view of the black sand beach praia formosa

Well — it depends. You’re going to pay a lot more for, say, an automatic SUV in the peak of summer vs. a small manual car in the heart of winter!

Seasonality is the major factor here: summer is far more expensive than winter. We’re talking by a factor of 5: you may pay as little as $30 USD per day during the low season but well over $150 USD during the summer!

To combat that, booking your car in advance is a great way to save some money, so be sure to do it as soon as you know the dates of your trip — most rental companies like Discover Cars offer free cancelation in case your trip changes.

While you may find last-minute deals in winter, or even spring and autumn, absolutely don’t wait until the last moment if you travel between June and September.

Tips for Renting a Car in Madeira

Renting a car in Madeira is fairly simple, as long as you meet all the requirements.

Here are the most important aspects of the car rental process, along with a few tips to help you choose the right car.

Bring the required documents.

An international driving permit and car keys

To rent a car in Madeira, you’ll need to have all your documents in order. Luckily, most travelers can drive in Madeira with their national driving license for the short term.

All European travelers, UK, Australian, and US citizens can drive in Portugal, including Madeira, without an international driving permit.

Nationals of other countries may require an IDP (International Driving Permit).

Aside from the driving license, you’ll need a valid passport and a debit or credit card. Most rental companies will require a credit card.

On top of the rental charge, companies may hold a deposit unless you purchase full coverage insurance with no excess charge.

Last, but definitely not least, note that while the driving age in Madeira is 18, rental companies usually require drivers to be over 21.

Additionally, they may also charge additional fees for drivers younger than 25.

Buy full coverage car insurance.

documents for renting a car on a clipboard

Another key step of the car rental process is understanding the insurance policies.

All rental cars in Madeira will have Third-Party Liability included by default.

This policy covers the driver’s liability for injuries and property damage, as long as all rental agreement terms are respected.

Two policies that may not be included in the initial rental cost but are mandatory for rental cars are CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and TP (Theft Protection).

CDW covers damage to the car’s bodywork, while TP covers the cost of replacing the car in case of theft.

In addition to these required policies, you can also purchase full coverage when you rent a car from Discover Cars — it’s much cheaper than renting it at the counter when you arrive, costing just about $7/day.

This includes every little thing that you may not think about — gravel cracking a window, your car getting dinged in a tight parking space, or a more serious car wreck.

Choose the right car transmission.

Person's hand on an automatic transmission car

First up, you should know that most cars in Madeira are manual transmission — that’s standard in most of Europe.

If you want to rent a car with automatic transmission, availability is limited, since it’s not as popular in the EU.

Plus, automatic cars tend to cost significantly more and have a smaller inventory, so plan and budget accordingly.

Basically: Book ahead, and cancel at the last minute if you need to!

Opt for the smallest car possible.

the car we rented in the azores with white paint with red roof — *My cute little rental in the Azores, which has similar driving conditions!*

How small you can realistically go obviously depends on how many people are in your group, as well as how much luggage you have.

That said, the roads in most towns and small villages are pretty narrow, and parking can be quite tricky in some places.

Having a smaller car is a real advantage and will save you both time and headaches!

Be prepared for steep roads.

Madeira steep street with flowers and trees, looking down the road, in Funchal, Madeira

Lastly, keep in mind that you’ll drive on quite a few steep roads.

For reference, the steepest street in Funchal, Rua da Barreira, has an average gradient of over 25%.

Think about it like driving in San Francisco, but across the entire island!

I personally broke a sweat driving on a particularly steep road in Funchal, where I’m pretty sure I left skid marks when my car stopped, and I had to restart with the handbrake engaged.

So, trust me when I say you want to rent a car with a powerful engine, since it will make your life much easier.

Most cars will work fine, but avoid the very smallest ones, usually marked as “mini” on car rental search engines.

Choose your pick-up and drop-off locations.

the funchal area with beautiful mustard yellow fort

As a general rule, it’s cheapest to pick up and drop off your car at the same place.

Choosing a different drop-off location always has an extra cost, but it can be worth it if it saves you money and stress, say, if you’re traveling with a large family or you have lots of luggage.

If you don’t want to deal with a car for the time you’re in Funchal, plan to visit Funchal at the end of your trip. You can simply drop your car off, then catch a bus or taxi from the airport to Funchal.

Use navigation tools wisely.

Navigation tools like Google Maps and similar apps are great but be careful and use them wisely.

It’s not unheard of for Google Maps to send you down unpaved roads where you probably shouldn’t drive with your rental car, especially if it has low clearance!

You should also note that there’s still some places on the island where you might not have cell service.

Download an offline map before you head out to find your way around, or bring a good old paper map.

Lastly, pay attention to road signs, as sometimes things change, or road work may be going on, leading to closed roads or detours.

Always carry cash.

You can pay by card nearly everywhere in Madeira, including gas stations.

However, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for unforeseen situations, like your card being denied, or a particular area requesting parking money in cash.

Just to save yourself any potential trouble, take out some cash at the start of your trip and keep it on you.

Driving Rules in Madeira

Driving rules in Madeira are the same as in Portugal and most European countries.

If you’ve ever driven in Europe or other Western countries, like the US, you won’t have any difficulty in Madeira.

Traffic signs and directions are present all over the island and easy to understand.

If you follow the rules and are careful, you won’t encounter issues driving in Madeira.

Here are a few additional tips to help with your driving experience on the Portuguese island.

Road Tolls

view at a miradouro guindaste with views of a sheer cliff face in madeira with atlantic ocean beside it

Good news! Madeira has no toll roads, so you can drive anywhere on the island without worrying about passing the right toll booth or paying your toll on time.

The island is quite small, and a few well-maintained, free highways connect the main cities.

Other than that, you’ll drive along winding roads across the mountains and along the coast with some truly amazing scenic views.

Motion Sickness

a winding, serpentine road in madeira from the mountains going down to the beachy coastline, with some cars parked along the narrow road

… But with those winding roads around the mountains, comes motion sickness for passengers who are prone to experiencing it.

While there are a few things you can do to mitigate it, like sitting in the front seat, if you’re traveling with a family, for example, not everyone can do that.

I recommend bringing both non-medical aids like SeaBands (which work for motion sickness on land too, as they’re based on acupressure points) as well as a medicine like Dramamine.

I personally always bring the less-drowsy formulation: it’s the Goldilocks medicine for me, where I get enough relief from my motion sickness without wanting to conk out and take a nap like when I take regular dramamine.

Parking

benches in funchal city center in spring, with wisteria plants and a statue and gorgeous blue sky with just a few tiny clouds, downtown scene

You’ll find free parking in many places across Madeira, especially on the northern shore.

Remember that free parking spots are marked by white lines and paid ones by blue lines, while yellow lines mean no parking.

This is probably the single most important rule about driving in Madeira that you need to remember!

In Funchal and other towns along the southern shore, you’ll probably end up having to pay for parking.

You will usually find parking meters that require coins, so always carry some change.

The good news is that most attractions, like viewpoints and hiking trails, have plenty of free parking spots!

Speed Limits

Another important driving rule you should always respect is the speed limit.

As a rule of thumb, the speed limit in cities and villages is 50 km/h, while on highways, it’s between 70 and 90 km/h.

The maximum legal speed is 100 km/h on some portions of the motorway (Via Rapida).

Although these are some general rules, always pay attention to speed limit signs and use common sense to drive safely.

For example, some signs — like the one above — specify a different maximum speed if it’s funny vs. if it’s foggy (a common occurrence on Madeira and Sao Miguel, as I learned while renting a car in the Azores!)

Sometimes, you may need to drive even slower, like on cobblestone streets in small towns.

Drinking and Driving

two glasses of madeira served with coffee with a blurry city view of funchal in the background, drinking on a terrace on a sunny day

You can’t visit Madeira and not try poncha, the island’s traditional drink made with aguardiente, citrus juice, and honey.

And of course, there’s Madeira’s local wines, both its dry wines and its famous fortified Madeira dessert wine.

However, it’s better to save this for the evening, after you’re done driving and ready for a good night’s rest.

As in mainland Portugal, in Madeira, the alcohol limit when driving is 0.5 grams for one liter of blood (or 0.05% BAC, for US readers).

And trust me when I say a well-done poncha is strong!

So, stay safe and avoid drinking when driving. You’ll also avoid a huge fine and getting your license suspended.

What is the Best Time for a Road Trip in Madeira?

garden in madeira with beautiful landscape

Madeira has pleasant summers and mild winters, making it a great destination year-round.

However, like most places in Europe, Madeira is very popular in summer, so expect to find it more crowded between late June and early September.

Given the pleasant weather, April and October are ideal for visiting Madeira. I went there in late September, and the weather was perfect.

From November to March, temperatures are slightly lower but rarely under 13°C (55°F). This is the perfect time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.

Where to Go by Car in Madeira

As I mentioned above, most of the places worth visiting in Madeira require a car, and there’s no shortage of places to explore.

You could easily spend a month on the island and still have places left to discover.

However, here are a few must-see places to add to your Madeira itinerary if you plan on renting a car.

Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo

the pico areiro walk which is easy to access from the parking lot while renting a car in madeira

These are two of the highest points on Madeira Island and among the highest in Portugal. Pico do Arieiro is easy to reach by car.

From the parking lot, walk along an easy trail to reach the peak and enjoy awe-inspiring panoramic views.

A moderate hike from Pico do Arieiro leads to the island’s highest point, Pico Ruivo.

Ponta de São Lourenço

views as you hike around sao lourenco, the prettiest part of madeira and easy to access when you rent a car

This hiking trail in the far eastern part of Madeira Island offers some of the most spectacular coastal views.

You can park in the dedicated parking lot and explore the beautiful trails until Miradouro Ponta do Furado, Madeira’s easternmost point facing the islet Ilhéu da Cevada.

Santana

Santana is the best place to go to check out the typical Madeirense houses, one of the island’s most iconic sights.

The triangular stone houses with straw-covered roofs are all around the center of Santana, a small town on the northern coast of Madeira.

Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz is another delightful town you should not skip when driving around Madeira.

The town in northwestern Madeira is better known for its natural swimming pools.

The pools were created inside lava formations, and the ocean tides constantly fill them with fresh water. This is one of the best spots for swimming in Madeira.

Achadas da Cruz

steep cable car going down to a village at the end of the funicular with the ocean in the background

Although this list could be much longer, one last place worth mentioning is Achadas da Cruz.

You can reach the small seaside village by catching a cable car or hiking down the hill.

The cable car ride is one of the most impressive you’ll experience, dropping down an extremely steep hill.

17 Best Day Trips from Porto (& How to Get to Each One!)

December 29, 2023June 22, 2023 by Allison Green

Porto is a beautiful city well worth several days exploring, but it’s equally viable as a base to use for Portugal day trips.

Because it’s located in the far north of the country, the options for day trips from Porto are vastly different than the options for Lisbon.

From the wine region of the Douro Valley where Portugal’s best wines are made to the peaceful towns of Northern Portugal’s Minho region to the pilgrimage city of Fátima, there are countless places to visit using Porto as a base.

⌛ Planning your trip to Porto at the last minute?

Here are my quick picks on what to do & where to stay!

🍷 Top Porto Experiences:
1. Douro Valley Wine Tour with Lunch, Tastings & River Cruise
2. Cálem Port Cellar Tour with Wine Tasting & Fado Show
3. Porto Food and Wine Walking Tour
4. 2-Hour Pastel de Nata Baking Class

🏨 Best Porto Hotels:
1. Hospes Infante de Sagres (Small Luxury Hotel of the World member)
2. Laurear Guesthouse (cozy mid-range boutique hotel)
3. Zero Box Lodge (funky budget hotel with capsule concept)

✈️ Flying in? Book an airport transfer with Welcome Pickups — they’ll greet you at the airport, help with bags, & bring you into the city, all pre-booked!

Purple wisteria covering the walls of a Portuguese house, with a brown door and a blue door

Whether you’re basing yourself in Porto and traveling around by tour or rental car or even RVing through Portugal, these places near Porto are worth your visit.

Here are some of the best Porto day trips you can take!

Getting Around Portugal

Allison Green, the editor of Eternal Arrival, looking up at the azulejos in the sao bento train station

Getting around Portugal using Porto as your day trip base is quite easy, since the trains are well-connected to the entire country.

For some destinations, it may make more sense to take a guided tour, like for wine tasting in the Douro Valley (no need for a designated driver!) or to nature destinations like Arouca and Peneda-Gerês.

Otherwise, it can also be helpful to rent a car and explore these Porto day trips in that way!

Car rental in Portugal is cheap, easy, and you can often string together several destinations in one day.

I use Discover Cars to find the best price for my rentals, since it compares 500 different agencies (including smaller, local ones) to find the best rental price.

They also have great deals on full coverage insurance (just around $7 a day vs. typically a lot more at the rental counter!).

Check rental car prices in Porto here!

Best Day Trips from Porto

Douro Valley

***Contributed by Stephanie Craig of History Fangirl***

If you love wine (or if you just love checking off UNESCO World Heritage Sites), then a visit to northern Portugal’s Douro Valley is an absolute must.

Connected by a river, there are multiple ways to visit Douro from Porto.

The most delightful might just be to take a cruise up the river, watching the beautiful scenery unfold as you go,

This spectacular wine region is home to Portugal’s most famous wine – port!

While you can certainly tipple port to your heart’s content in Porto, in the Douro Valley you can visit the individual quintas (porthouses) where it is produced.

Besides visiting as many quintas as you can fit into your day, leave plenty of time to appreciate the views here!

There are many lookout points to stop at. If you’re interested in the history of Port production, you can also visit the Douro Museum in Peso da Régua.

How to Get There

The best way is to rent a car and drive, as its a truly breathtaking scenic route high in the hills above the valley.

The drive is a little under four hours, so if you get up early you’ll have plenty of time to hit a few quintas before you return to Porto at night…. or you can stay overnight in a quinta hotel in Douro!

Just make sure to plan who will be driving so you don’t overindulge while here!

Another option is to take a scenic train ride from Porto, leaving from the city’s famous Sao Bento station.

The train goes right along the river, and it takes less than three hours each way.

This is a great option for solo travelers and groups who are all keen to taste as much as possible.

If you do choose to go by train, I would suggest having a tour guide meet you in Douro so that you can easily get between the quintas.

This is because public transportation is not available to many of the places you will want to visit.

Perhaps the best way to visit is on a guided tour of the Douro Valley, as it makes visiting the quintas quite simple.

Plus, it means no one has to worry about being the designated driver — score!

⭐ Tour Recommendation: Full Day Douro Wine Tour, Lunch, + Boat Cruise ⭐
(4.8/5 stars with 1,250+ reviews)

This full-day tour is inclusive of hotel-pick up & drop-off, transfers between Porto and Douro Valley, an olive oil tasting, visits to two wineries (with 8+ wine tastings), a traditional Portuguese lunch, and a one-hour Douro River cruise.

➤ Check tour availability and prices here

Pinhão

Pinhao train station with its azulejos and old clock

Editor’s Choice

While part of the Douro Valley, Pinhão is definitely worthy of a day trip from Porto all on its own if you want to do a more self-guided tour — without a rental car.

Easily connected by train — and what a gorgeous train station it is, with some of Portugal’s finest azulejos! — Pinhão is an utter charmer.

This small, traditional Portuguese village nestled among terraced vineyards is like stepping back in time.

A highlight of a Pinhão day trip is taking a leisurely boat ride along the Douro River, admiring the vineyards carved into the hillsides on each side, and the way the sunlight is changed by how deep the valley is.

The coolest way to take a boat ride is in a traditional rabelo, the local boat of the Douro region.

It was originally purposed to transport wine but they now also double as a tourist attraction! You can book a 2-hour rabelo cruise here.

Of course, no visit to Pinhão is complete without visiting a quinta or two! Port, with its velvety structure and sweet-but-complex taste, is the name of the game here.

But other local wines are also worth a try — and go well with the rich, local Northern Portuguese cuisine!

Quinta do Bomfim is busiest and most famous quinta, so you’ll want to make a reservation — you can book a spot for your winery visit here.

How to Get There

Train is the name of the game here — the roads of the Douro Valley are quite windy, so if you can skip them for a leisurely train ride, why wouldn’t you?

There are several daily trains from Porto São Bento, taking about 2 hours and costing between €12 and €20.

Matosinhos

In terms of time spent in transit, the coastal town of Matosinhos doesn’t seem like a day trip at all.

Still, this small beach town is separate from Porto and offers a striking contrast from Porto just 20 to 30 minutes outside the city center.

Here, you can admire the sweeping Atlantic coastline, with intrepid surfers dotting the frigid waters and (saner) people enjoying the golden sand.

Of course, you’re in a coastal town, so you’ve got to try the local seafood. Portugal does seafood well already, but in Matosinhos, it’s next level!

Besides enjoying the beach, you can enjoy the Pergola do Foz promenade, admire the beautiful beachside chapel and the Farol de Leça, or explore the Matosinhos Fish Market for a sense of the local life.

How to Get There

This is the only day trip from Porto on this list that you can get to by metro! Line A (the purple one) will bring you Matosinhos in about 20 minutes.

There are also buses from Porto city center, which take about 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Guimarães

***Contributed by Fiona Maclean of London-Unattached***

Guimarães the birthplace of Portugal is a charming and well-preserved UNESCO listed medieval town.

It’s called the birthplace of Portugal as nearby is the site of the Battle of São Mamede, from which Portugal was founded.

Also, the first-ever King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques was born in the town!

Today, apart from visiting some of the key buildings, you can wander through well preserved medieval streets and browse some of the charming artisan shops.

Spend some time on the main squares, Largo da Oliveira and Santiago, where you’ll find plenty of cafes to enjoy a coffee or glass of wine.

Make sure you do visit the hilltop Guimarães Castle, the birthplace of Afonso Henriques.

Built during the 10th century, it was restored in the 20th century and the grounds and part of the castle are now open to the public.

And don’t miss exploring the splendid Dukes of Bragança Palace!

Originally built in 1420 by Afonso, Duke of Bragança, it was modified in the 16th century before being abandoned.

It wasn’t until the 1930s that renovation started and controversially, the restored Palace now replicates a 17th century French chateau.

It’s still worth a visit though, particular for its museum showcasing period furniture, tapestries, and weapons.

If you have time, then take the cable car to the Monte da Penha, the highest point in Guimarães to enjoy spectacular views across the city as far as the sea on a clear day.

Do also visit the stunning Pousada Mosteiro de Guimarães, which like many of the pousadas, was once a Monastery.

In the grand dining hall, you can feast on traditional Northern Portuguese dishes like caldo verde or black pork (porco preto).

You’ll feel as if you’ve taken a step back in time when you visit Guimarães.

How to Get There

From Porto, it’s an easy train journey. The local service takes around an hour and a half while a direct train will take just over an hour.

Better yet, take a guided tour that combines Guimarães and Braga (next on the list) to make the most of your time and see two iconic sites in one easy day trip from Porto.

⭐ Recommended Day Trip: Guimarães and Braga Full-Day Tour ⭐
(4.9/5 stars, 240+ reviews)

This full-day tour is inclusive of hotel pick-up & drop off, transfers to Guimarães and Braga, fast-track entry tickets, and a full Portuguese lunch. You’ll also get to experience guided tours of Braga Cathedral, Guimarães Castle, and the Ducal Palace.

➤ Check tour availability and prices here

Braga

Braga is a compact town that’s full of life, so it makes a great day trip from Porto.

The center is packed with cute cafés that serve a mix of traditional dishes from Northern Portugal and fusion creations, so make sure you arrive hungry!

For a traditional dinner that won’t disappoint, Cozinha da Sé is one of the best restaurants in town and popular with both locals and tourists alike.

Don’t miss Braga’s many churches and cathedrals, all of which offer an insight into Portuguese architecture.

A one-day pass for the hop-on/hop-off bus costs less than $12 USD.

It will be a worthy investment if you want to head out to the Bom Jesus de Monte historic funicular and take in the city from above!

How to Get There

Braga is just a 45-minute drive from Porto, which means it’s a perfect stopping point if you’re planning a road trip from Porto.

If you don’t have your own wheels, there is an hourly bus that costs 7-9 euros per person or an hourly train that costs 8-10 euros.

You can also take a guided tour that includes Guimarães (above) and Braga — read more below.

Aveiro

Editor’s Choice

Nicknamed the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro charms day trippers with its enchanting canals and colorful boats, as well as its architecture with its vibrant façades and old-world charm.

Be sure to wander along the canal and admire the traditional moliceiro boats, adorned with intricate hand-painted motifs — often with quite a naughty theme!

You can take a peaceful boat ride through the canals in one of these traditional boats, which function much like a Venetian gondola.

Other things you can do include admiring the Art Nouveau architecture and the 15th century Gothic Aveiro Cathedral, with its intricate stained glass.

Be sure to try the local pastries! The favorite Aveiro treat are “ovos moles,” sweet egg yolks wrapped in delicate casings.

For a nature escape from the city, the lagoon of Ria de Aveiro is nearby, as is the famous Praia de Costa Nova (which is the next spot on this Porto day trips list!)

How to Get There

There are frequent trains between the two main stations of Porto, both São Bento and Campanhã, and Aveiro.

The journey takes approximately 1 hour via the fast train (Alfa Pendular) or longer via the cheaper regional train.

There are also buses, but these take longer and are less comfortable.

You can also rent a car and drive, as it only takes about an hour to get there, depending on traffic.

Praia da Costa Nova

Red house with vertical white stripes, blue house with vertical white stripes, green house with horizontal white stripes

Editor’s Choice

One of the best Porto day trips to take in summer is a visit to Praia de Costa Nova: this beautiful beach and its candy-colored striped mini beach houses is something you’ve likely seen on Instagram!

This charming seaside destination, located just a short distance from Porto, offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty and whimsical architecture.

Arriving at Praia da Costa Nova, you’ll be greeted by a striking display of vibrant striped houses (called palheiros) that line the shore, emblematic of the beach.

Their playful bright striped paint job, combined with their pint-sized charm, makes this a favorite photo spot in Portugal.

Photographers also shouldn’t miss the picturesque Farol de Aveiro at the north end of the beach.

That part of the beach is called Praia da Barra (though the beaches stretch together along the shore and there is no physical demarkation between the two).

Stroll along the wide sandy beach, or lay a towel down and enjoy some sunbathing — though remember, occasionally the Atlantic winds can be quite strong!

How to Get There

To visit Praia da Costa Nova from Porto, take the train to Aveiro from either Porto’s São Bento or Campanhã train stations.

Once in Aveiro, local buses or taxis can transport you to Praia da Costa Nova, about 10 kilometers away.

Santiago de Compostela

Editor’s Choice

The end of the road for many a pilgrim walking the Camino de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela in Spain has many charms.

Of course, the main draw of the city is the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.

And of course it is: it’s the final destination for tired, dedicated hikers coming to the end of their Camino, a pilgrimage that can often take several weeks.

While the Cathedral is notable for the excitement that pilgrims feel when finally reaching their destination, it’s worthy of a visit even on a day trip from Porto.

It has a beautiful Romanesque exterior with striking Gothic elements inside. It also has the tomb of St. James, Spain’s patron saint.

Besides the cathedral, you should spend some time people-watching in the Praza do Obradoiro right in front of the cathedral.

You’ll also find some other beautiful architecture here like the Palacio de Raxoi and the Colegio de San Jerónimo.

Keeping with the religious theme, there’s also a stunning Baroque monastery in the heart of the city, the Monastery of San Martín Pinario.

While its exterior facade is stunning, inside is very interesting as well, with museums and art to spend time admiring.

Finally, wander around the Mercado de Abastos where you can pick up some local food and try some Galician cuisine (the food of this particular region of Spain).

How to Get There

You can get from Porto to Santiago de Compostela via public transit (bus or train), rental car, or guided tour.

The bus takes about 4 hours, and prices vary depending on company. The train is faster, via the Spanish national train service called Renfe. This only takes about 3 hours, and prices depend on what class you choose.

If you choose to drive, expect it to take about 2.5 hours without traffic; you’ll cover about 220 kilometers and cross a border in that time.

The easiest way is to take a guided tour — I’ll suggest one below.

⭐ Recommended Day Tour: Full Day Santiago de Compostela Tour ⭐
(4.7/5 stars, 250+ reviews)

This tour is inclusive of transfers between Porto and Santiago de Compostela (pick-up/drop-off optional), as well as a guide, all the monument entry fees included on the tour, and a lunch. You’ll get to explore Santiago de Compostela and attend mass there, and also visit the city and ancient walls of Valença do Minho in Northern Portugal.

➤ Check tour availability and prices here

Fátima

***Contributed by Priyanko Sarkar of Constant Traveller***

While the question of Porto vs. Lisbon is a tough one, Porto is incredible.

But I also believe that Fátima is that rare place that promises to make you slow down.

It’s one destination that definitely deserves to be seen on a day trip from Porto!

Fátima is actually one of the great pilgrimage sites in Europe.

Barely a few hours from Porto, the place is revered as the place where three little shepherd children saw a vision of Mother Mary in 1917.

Ever since, believers have flocked to this place to seek blessings. Simply arriving in Fátima is a lifetime ambition for many Catholics!

The Basilica de Nossa Senhora de Rosario is where you need to first go to pay respects to the grave of two of the shepherd children. It is also the place where they first glimpsed Mother Mary.

A large modern crucifix on the other side signals the entry to the Basilica of the Holy Trinity, a more recent basilica with facilities where you can attend readings as per your schedule.

Take your time to visit the rest of the complex that makes up the Sanctuary of Fatima.

The scale of this sanctuary is something to behold as you find people of all ages praying fervently.

Many of them will walk with single-minded passion on their knees, others will offer large-sized candles while there are readings from the Bible in different languages almost on the hour under a small sheltered space.

Being in Fátima and spending time there is one of the best ways to get an alternate perspective of what Portugal is all about.

How to Get There

The best way to get here is by bus companies (Rede Expressos is recommended) for about 20 euros each way.

It takes a little over two hours to cover the 195-kilometer distance between the two cities.

Alternately, try trains that take about three hours each way between Porto and Fátima.

You can also do a guided day trip that combines Fátima and Coimbra.

⭐ Day Trip Suggestion: Fátima & Coimbra Full-Day Tour ⭐
(4.7 stars with 200+ reviews)

This tour takes you to both Fátima and Coimbra, Portugal’s university city. It includes pick-up & drop-off (if selected), a full day’s guide, all entrance fees, all transportation, and lunch with drinks (if selected).

➤ Check tour availability and prices here

Leiria

Editor’s Choice

The Central Portugal town of Leiria is a great, offbeat day trip from Porto — you won’t find many crowds here.

This town has the beautiful Leiria Castle perched like a crown atop the hill, overlooking the whole city — and impressively visible from the town, too.

The castle is well-preserved and worth a visit — you can explore its walls, towers, and courtyards for a mere €2.10!

The architecture in town is quite beautiful as well, with the Manueline-style Leiria Cathedral at its heart, and lively squares like Praça Rodrigues Lobo inviting you for a coffee and a pastry.

If you’ve rented a car and drove, you can also visit Leiria Pine Forest for a breath of fresh, Christmas-scented air!

How to Get There

Taking a train is the most convenient (and scenic!) way to reach Leiria from Porto.

You’ll find several trains leaving from Porto’s São Bento or Campanhã train stations, which take about 1.5-2 hours to reach Leiria, depending on the train.

If you’re already renting a car, this is a great stop — it’s about 1.5 hours from Porto and a 130 km drive.

Arouca

Editor’s Choice

Want to escape into nature on your day trip from Porto?

Start in Areinho to take the Paiva Walkways, 300 steps that bring you a height of nearly 200 meters / 700 feet above the Paiva River.

From there, you’ll reach the 516 Arouca Bridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world.

After crossing, continuing on hiking alongside the spectacular Paiva River, which is home to several waterfalls like the Aguieira Waterfall for one.

Take a break at the river beach, Vau Beach, and then finish up in Espiunca where you’ll be picked up and brought for a delicious lunch.

How to Get There

Since this tour starts in one spot and ends in another, we highly recommend taking a guided tour so that you don’t have to backtrack with all that hiking… otherwise, it’s a really difficult day tour from Porto.

Take a guided tour like the one we recommend below.

⭐ Recommended Day Tour: Arouca 516 & Paiva Walkways ⭐
(4.9/5 stars, 50+ reviews)

This tour includes all transfers and entry fees to both the Arouca 516 and the Paiva Walkways, as well as bottled water and a delicious, authentic Portuguese lunch to celebrate all your hard hiking.

➤ Check tour availability and prices here

⭐ Other Option: Aveiro + Arouca 516 & Paiva Walkways ⭐

This tour is the same as the above, but it also includes a trip to the beautiful “Venice of Portugal”, Aveiro, known for its molineiro boats and canals.

➤ Check tour availability and prices here

Amarante

Situated along the banks of the Tâmega River, Amarante is a stunner with cobbled street, azueljo-covered churches, and natural beauty all around you.

Cross the famous Ponte de São Gonçalo, an iconic bridge with its stone construction and beautiful arches.

It spans the Tâmega river and leads you into the heart of the town, where you’ll find the Largo de São Gonçalo, a peaceful square in the town center.

Don’t miss São Gonçalo Church, with its striking Baroque façade and intricate azulejo tilework, a photographer’s delight.

Sweet tooths, don’t forget to try their local sweet: the “papos de anjo.” These golden-hued egg-based pastries are a favorite — try it alongside Port for extra indulgence.

How to Get There

To reach Amarante from Porto by train, you can take the Linha do Douro train, which takes approximately 1 hour and offers stunning views along the way!

You can also rent a car and drive and visit more towns in the area.

Viana do Castelo

***Contributed by Halef and Michael of The Round The World Guys***

Northern Portugal is like a world of its own.

It has a distinctively unique culture from the rest of Portugal – from the unique Northern Portugal wedding, traditional dress, to the dances and music.

It is believed that the traditional Portuguese fado music originated here in Northern Portugal’s Minho region.

One of the best places to experience Northern Portugal is the relatively unknown town of Viana do Castelo.

Viana’s old town is centered around Praça da Republica. You can find the charm of the city’s architectural treasures, as well as finding some great restaurants, cafés, and shops.

From the town center, you can hop onto the Funicular de Santa Luzia.

This incline railway will take you to the top of Monte de Santa Luzia, where you can find the magnificent landmark of Viana do Castelo: Sanctuario de Santa Luzia.

Food-wise, head to A Moda Antiga or Taberna do Valentim for their traditional Caldo Verde – kale and potato soup of the Minho Province.

Don’t miss the Pescada a Vianense – a delicacy of cod or other fish – baked in a mixture of potatoes, garlic, onion, and lemon juice.

How to Get There

The town of Viana do Castelo is well connected from Porto, either by an hour bus ride or train ride.

It costs less than 10 euros to travel to Viana do Castelo from Porto.

You can also go on a guided day trip if you prefer some context and convenience.

⭐ Suggested Day Trip: Private Day Tour of Minho Region ⭐
(New – Be the first to review!)

This private tour includes visits to three key places in the Minho region. It visits Viana do Castelo but also Ponte de Lima and Valença, other key places in Northern Portugal. It includes pick-up/drop-off and a guide, but you’re on your own for entrance fees and lunch.

➤ Check tour availability and prices here

Peneda-Gerês National Park

view of peneda geres national park lake or reservoir on a sunny summer day

Editor’s Choice

Tucked quietly away in northern Portugal, Peneda-Gerês National Park is all about awe-inspiring views and peaceful hikes.

With mountains in the distance and meadows and forests at your feet, you’ll feel a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Porto.

You may even see a wild horse grazing freely!

There are dozens of hiking trails you can take, from easy walks to tougher climbs.

There are several waterfalls and lakes worth seeing in this national park: the Arado Waterfalla and the Tahiti Waterfall (also known as Cascata de Fecha de Barjas) are two favorites.

There’s also the serene Caniçada Reservoir which is a lovely place to spend some time.

How to Get There

Public transportation to and around Peneda-Gerês is limited, so this is a place best visited with a rental car or a guided tour.

This full-day guided tour is a fun option as you explore the park via 4×4!

Coimbra

***Contributed by Maria & Rui of*** ***Two Find a Way***

One of the things that makes Coimbra a great day trip is that it’s easily reachable from Porto using public transportation in about an hour.

Even though there’s plenty to see in Coimbra (which means that one day is not necessarily enough to see everything), the reality is that the city is quite compact, so it’s easy to explore the main sights in just a few hours.

While there, don’t miss the Old Town area, the University of Coimbra (especially the stunning Joanina Library), and the Botanical Garden, a place for tranquility and relaxation.

The beautiful riverfront is a great location for a leisurely walk, and a lot less crowded than Porto’s famous Ribeira.

How to Get There

You can either take a train (the fastest ones take around an hour), or the bus (runs almost every hour, and takes about an hour and a half).

You can also do a guided day trip that combines Fátima and Coimbra!

Tomar

Editor’s Choice

As you arrive in Tomar, you’ll be transported back in time to the medieval era — when the Knights Templar once roamed these lands (and leaving behind many cool architectural sites behind!).

The two must-see places and they together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Convent of Christ and the nearby Castle of Tomar.

The convent’s exquisite medieval cloisters and stunning Manueline architectural elements are breathtaking.

Meanwhile, the 12th century castle (which is remarkably great shape!) is fun to explore, plus it has some incredible panoramic views of Tomar!

Back in town, don’t miss people-watching in Praça da República, a charming square and visiting the charming Igreja de São João Baptista

Taking a leisurely stroll along the river or through the picturesque Park Mouchão is also highly recommended!

How To Get There

There are no direct trains to Tomar, but it’s still not too difficult to get there by public transit.

Just take a train from São Bento or Campanhã to Entroncamento, then connect to Tomar (which takes about 20 minutes).

Nazaré

the beaches of nazare with crashing waves

Editor’s Choice

Known for its colossal waves and the crazy surfers that defy death to barrel down them each winter (making is a good day trip choice from Porto in winter), Nazaré is worth a visit for reasons other than its surf!

Of course, you ought to admire its epic Praia do Norte so you can see firsthand the sheer power of the waves that draw surfers from around the globe.

The harbor area of Nazaré is also rather cute, with its colorful fishing boats (bateiras) and local fishermen going about their daily business.

One of the coolest parts of Nazaré is the Sitio area, which is connected to the lower town by a funicular — the ride up has breathtaking coastal views!

There, you’ll find Sitio Square, home to the picturesque Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré, with gorgeous tilework in the traditional azulejo style.

Also in Sitio, you’ll find the the Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo, a 17th-century fortress once used as a defense against pirate attacks.

Now, it’s home to a small museum, and you can walk around its historic walls and admire the views.

How To Get There

By train, you can head to Porto’s São Bento or Campanhã train stations and take a train to Coimbra, transferring at the Coimbra-B station where you can catch a connecting train to Nazaré.

Expect the train journey to take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the schedule and connection length.

There are also three Flixbus routes in either direction daily (book tickets in advance), which takes about 3 hours each way.

As of June 2023, morning departures from Porto are at 7:45 AM and 10:40 AM, and afternoon return trips are at 4 PM and 7:50 PM.

Driving is also a possibility — it’ll take about 3 hours to cover the 235 km between Porto and Nazaré.

Vigo & Cies Islands

***Contributed by Inma Gregorio of A World to Travel***

One of the old continent’s main perks is how easy it is to country hop your way around it. You can visit Spain on a day trip from Porto!

There is a myriad of interesting and fun things to do in Vigo for you to choose from.

From flying over the city’s estuary to capture some memorable and Instagram-worthy moments to going for some tapas in the old town or simply enjoying one of the nearby city beaches; this city’s appeals are many.

If I had to pick one, though, that’d be a visit to Cies Islands – part of the Maritime-Terrestrial National Park of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia.

Already showcased in the early 2000s as a true paradise by the British media; during summer there’s basically no better plan to spend a sunny day in the South of Galicia.

You’ll be back in Porto sun-tanned and happy, promised!

How to Get There

Despite being two different countries, it’s easy to visit Vigo on a day trip.

Taking advantage of the many – and usually pretty cheap – transport options between them, it is possible to jump from Porto to Vigo in less than three hours.

In fact, a 7€ bus or 12€ train ride will take you from Porto’s city center to Vigo.

Where to Stay in the Algarve: 10 Best Towns to Stay In!

October 25, 2023April 22, 2023 by Roxana Fanaru

the town of olhao in portugal with whitewashed houses and pretty colors

Crystalline turquoise waters, powdery soft sand beaches, candy-colored coastal towns on clifftops: these views await you when you visit the Algarve coast in the southernmost part of Portugal.

With Spain flanking its east and the Atlantic Ocean to its west, the Algarve’s little section of the Mediterranean is one of of Europe’s most scenic, with dramatic coastlines giving way to stunning views in nearly every Algarve beach town.

You’ll see remarkable sea arches you can kayak to (and through), rugged rock formations formed off the coast sticking out from the sparkling sea, and beaches packed with colorful umbrellas.

Beautiful view of cliffs of the Ponta da Piedade on Algarve coast, taking a boat tour through the stunning cave formations

I lived in Portugal for more than two years and during that time, each summer I took some time to escape to explore the Algarve and its lovely beaches, visiting twice during my time there.

I took two road trips from Lisbon to the Algarve, visiting the scenic small towns in the Algarve along the way.

This guide focuses on where to stay in the Algarve, based on my personal experience exploring the Algarve.

In it, I’ll help you decide what the best town in the Algarve to stay in is, based on what attractions, benefits, or drawbacks come with each one.

Whichever you choose, it’s best to rent a car in Portugal for the easiest access to these charming small Portuguese towns!

Here’s a guide to renting a car in Portugal — it’s less intimidating than you think, once you know a few tips.

Best Towns to Stay in the Algarve

Lagos

Pros:
– Lots of restaurants and bars, as well as nightlife options
– Central location makes it easy to access other parts of the Algarve by car
– Near to some of the best beaches, including Praia Dona Ana and Meia Praia

Cons:
– Quite crowded during peak season, making accommodation scarce and parking a nightmare
– Further from the eastern Algarve, where Tavira and Faro are, two other scenic Algarve towns
– Larger city, so not good for a laidback vacation far from crowds

Lagos is perhaps one of the most famous towns to stay in on the Algarve, located to the west of the Algarve coast.

It’s just half an hour from Sagres, which is the southwestern-most tip of Portugal.

Thanks to its whitewashed houses, charming historic center, and gorgeous seaside promenades, Lagos is one of the top choices for Algarve towns.

I mean, with scenery straight out of the pages of a travel magazine, who’s surprised?

The top reason to stay in Lagos is that you’ll be within walking distance of some of the most spectacular rock formations along the coast of the Algarve!

Just west of the town center, you’ll discover the marvelous Ponta da Piedade, a system of marine caves, arches, and stacks in the crystal-clear waters this area is famed for.

crystalline blue waters of the rock formations around ponta de piedade

You can admire Ponta da Piedade from a variety of scenic viewing points along the coast, or descend a long staircase to reach the departure point for boat and kayak tours.

Taking a sailing tour along the dramatic coastline of Lagos is an even better way to experience this gorgeous Algarve town.

Lagos is also close to some of the most scenic beaches of the Algarve, particularly Praia de Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo.

The beaches are close to each other, enclosed by limestone cliffs and featuring remarkable rock formations.

To reach the beaches, you’ll have to climb down a couple of long and steep staircases, but they’re worth the challenge.

Don’t forget to check out the spectacular views from above before heading down to the beach!

Where to Stay in Lagos:

Budget | The affordable Indigo Guest House is charming and stylish without breaking the budget. It’s intimate, with just six rooms, so you’ll feel right at home. There’s a lovely rooftop terrace with great views over the city.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Mid-Range | Stylish Casa Margô is charming and small, with just 7 rooms each decorated with its own theme. There’s a lovely plunge pool and rooftop terrace with great views of Lagos. With nearly perfect ratings, this is a crowd favorite in Lagos.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Luxury | The 5-star Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda offers small-scale luxury with just 25 rooms, each beautifully designed. The grounds are lush, with a gorgeous infinity pool, stunning gardens, and lovely views of the water. There’s an on-site yoga studio and spa for added relaxation.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Portimão

Beautiful Praia de Rocha in Portimao Portugal, along the coast with blue waters, soft white sand, a church, and a lighthouse in the distance

Pros:
– Central location near Lagos, Carvoeiro, and Benagil Caves
– Near some of the best beaches, like including Praia da Rocha and Praia dos Três Irmãos.
– Lively nightlife scene with lots of options

Cons:
– Touristic and can feel less authentic than smaller Algarve towns
– Can be loud at night in center due to nightlife
– Limited public transportation and difficulty parking in center

Half an hour east of Lagos, Portimão is another convenient town to make your home base in the Algarve.

You’ll still be within a short drive from all the scenic spots near Lagos, and you can enjoy other spectacular beaches, the most notable being Praia da Rocha.

The historic center of Portimão is a bit further inland, along the shore of the Arade River.

Here’s where you’ll find most landmarks, like the 15th-century church Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição and the regional heritage museum Museu de Portimão, dedicated to the local fishing tradition.

Colorful houses of Portimao old town, Portugal, red, yellow, and blue painted colors

The area along the main beach of Praia da Rocha is filled with shops, restaurants, and bars, ideal for dining out and enjoying the local nightlife.

During the daytime hours, you can visit the medieval fort Fortaleza de Santa Catarina and check out the stunning coastal views from Miradouro dos Três Castelos.

Another beach worth checking out just west of Portimão is Praia dos Três Irmãos, a long sandy beach with even more remarkable rock formations and caves for you to explore.

Where to Stay in Portimão:

Budget | The charming Villa Prana features spacious rooms with A/C and green tropical detailing. It’s a great place to unwind, as it’s home to on-site yoga classes for an additional fee, as well as massages that incorporate Ayurvedic treatments.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Mid-Range | The boutique hotel Villa Moments is a small but charming guesthouse with just six rooms. There’s a swimming pool, hot tub, and sun terrace on-site, great for relaxing. But you’re also just a stone’s throw from all the beaches, stores, and restaurants of Portimão town center.

Luxury | The stunning 5-star Bela Vista Hotel & Spa is part of the Relais & Chateaux group, a trusted luxury brand. With Art Nouveau styling and a lovely vintage vibe, there’s a certain “Accidentally Wes Anderson” vibe to it. To dial up the luxury, there’s an on-site spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and restaurant/bar, as well as a private beach club and hotel gardens.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Carvoeiro

Pros:
– Home to stunning cliffside views and great beaches like Praia do Carvoeiro and Praia de Vale Centeanes
– Quiet, laidback town is more peaceful than other Algarve towns
– Center is picturesque with a more authentic Portuguese charm

Cons:
– Limited nightlife options, so not as lively
– Less accommodation options, especially limited during peak season
– More expensive than other places in Algarve due to its small supply and high demand

A short drive east of Portimão, you’ll find the charming town of Carvoeiro.

This is an ideal town to stay in the Algarve if you want to explore the renowned Benagil Caves and enjoy pleasant walks along the coast.

The town is quite large, but the most picturesque area is around the main beach, Praia de Carvoeiro.

The little beach is also the departing point for boat tours to the spectacular Benagil Caves as well as the spot to rent kayaks or paddle boards to explore the coast on your own.

the view of the benagil caves in portugal on the algarve coast with several openings to the sea and sky and some people visiting with kayaks

East of Praia do Carvoeiro, walk along the coast through the impressive landscape of the Algar Seco.

This part of the coast features a system of caves, tunnels, and passages slowly eroded through the limestone cliff by the ocean over the course of millennia.

To the east of Carvoeiro, you can enjoy even more stunning beaches, including the secluded Praia do Vale de Centeanes, Praia de Vale Covo, and Praia do Carvalho.

You can also enjoy sweeping coastal views from the Carvoeiro lighthouse and the stunning viewpoint of Miradouro do Vale Suspenso.

Where to Stay in Carvoeiro:

Budget | Hotel Carvoeiro is a little old-fashioned and could use some updating, but it’s still a good choice for those on a budget. Rooms are spacious with plenty of place to sprawl, and there’s an on-site pool to cool off in. It’s a little far from beaches, about a 15-minute walk, but that’s a small price to pay for the good deal you get here.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Mid-Range | The lovely condo-hotel Hello Villas gives you all the benefits of a vacation rental with the perks of a hotel, like fresh pool towels and on-site breakfast. Each of the 10 villas has its own terrace, well-equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi and A/C. There’s also an on-site pool, a fitness center, and a place for kids to play.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Luxury | The massive Tivoli Carvoeiro is a luxurious five-star resort with nearly 250 rooms and suites, with ocean or garden views. There’s an on-site spa, outdoor pools and hot tub with stunning cliffside ocean views, and a garden worth drooling over. Besides that, there’s also tennis courts and a kids club, making it a good choice for families.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Armação de Pêra

Beautiful beaches of the Algarve coast of Portugal, Armacao de Pera, with brilliant yellow and white umbrellas, turquoise and dark blue water, soft white sand, and people enjoying the beach on a summer day.

Pros:
– Home to Praia da Armação de Pêra, one of the largest beaches in the region
– Great hiking in the surrounding areas
– Popular with families as it’s near Zoomarine and Aqualand water park

Cons:
– Nights can be a little noisy if you’re in the center
– Limited parking in the small town center
– Limited accommodations options mean higher prices

This quiet little Algarve town between Carvoeiro and Albufeira is the perfect base along the coast if you are looking for long stretches of sand to relax and enjoy swimming in the turquoise waters.

Though slightly less popular than Lagos and Portimão, Armação de Pêra is still among the top choices for travelers visiting the region.

The town is located along the main beach, Praia de Armação de Pêra, and features many hotels, restaurants, and bars.

The beach continues to the east until Praia da Galé.

In between naps on the beach, you can explore the town and enjoy the views from the Fort of Saint Anthony.

To the west, you can check out impressive beaches, including Praia de Nossa Senhora da Rocha and Praia da Marinha.

Beautiful cliffs and rock formations by the Atlantic Ocean at Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in Algarve, Portugal

All along the coast, you can find walking trails and beautiful viewpoints.

For some truly unforgettable natural scenery, walk along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, where you can check out Arco de Albandeira.

Along the way, enjoy the view of more remarkable rock formations emerging from the ocean, like the famous Yellow Submarine.

Armação de Pêra is also a perfect spot for families with children. North of town, you can enjoy a day at the waterpark Aqualand Algarve or visit the marine park Zoomarine Algarve.

Where to Stay in Armação de Pêra:

Budget | Located two miles inland from the beach, closer to Alcantarilha, Hotel Capela das Artes is a great steal on a literal olive grove… not bad! While the sea isn’t far, but the saltwater outdoor pool makes it feel even closer. Rooms have A/C and WiFi, but the setting feels peaceful and almost rural. Hard to believe you’re in the Algarve!

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Mid-Range | The charming Apartmento Moura is right on the beach — it doesn’t get more central than this. This apartment has an eclectic, modern design with lots of blue elements that evoke the sea while staying minimalistic. You’ll have all the perks of apartment living — a washer-dryer, large kitchen, etc. — while also having some hotel-like perks such as a shared outdoor pool.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Luxury | The 5-star Vilalara Thalassa Resort is the place to go for spa lovers. This stunning cliffside hotel has gorgeous grounds and stunning views of the ocean from every single room’s private terrace. The hotel spa is a must-visit, with a sauna, Turkish bath, and indoor pool. There are several on-site restaurants and bars to choose from, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, a private beach: there’s really no reason you’d have to leave, but being that you’re in the Algarve, I hope you will!

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Albufeira

Pros:
– Home to several beautiful beaches like Praia da Oura and Praia dos Pescadores
– Many restaurant and nightlife options
– Near to family-friend spots like Zoomarine and Aqualand water park

Cons:
– Can get very noisy at night with lots of nightlife
– Very touristic and overdeveloped, can feel inauthentic
– Accommodations are very expensive

The lively Albufeira is the place to go if you want to experience the vibrant nightlife and meet other travelers and expats.

The town is super popular among foreigners, especially British and Northern European travelers escaping cooler weather.

The former fishing village with whitewashed houses offers the perfect combination of lovely beaches, a charming old town, and great restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Wander through the Baixa de Albufeira with its charming little alleys, squares, and beautiful churches, relax on the main beach Praia dos Pescadores, and enjoy the view from Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira.

a view from the old town of albufeira leading to the waters of the ocean at sunset when the pastel colors have fallen on the houses and the sea's horizon, with some flowers from a bougainvillea in the foreground and white-washed houses and cobblestones

To the east of Praia dos Pescadores, just a short walk away, you can find the long sandy beach Praia dos Alemães, perfect for swimming or working on that vacation tan.

If you’re traveling with a car and don’t mind a bit more travel time, a short drive further east will allow you to discover more impressive beaches like Praia dos Aveiros, Praia da Oura, Praia Santa Eulália, and Praia Olhos de Água.

The nightlife area is known as the Strip or Rua dos Bares, and it’s a street just outside the old town, lined with everything you could ask for, from pizza restaurants to Irish pubs and bars.

Whether you want to listen to live music, enjoy a late-night drink, or go dancing, you’ll find a spot here.

Where to Stay in Albufeira:

Budget | The centrally located condo-hotel Luna Solaqua is in the heart of Albufeira, close to Old Town and Oura Street. There’s a large pool all guests share, as well as A/C rooms with WiFi, balconies, kitchenettes, and en-suite bathrooms.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Mid-Range | The beachfront VidaMar Resort Hotel located right on Salgados Beach is a stunner with an outdoor pool and breezy bed-like cabanas for lounging. The rooms are modern and minimalist, with muted colors that put your attention on the great views. There are several pools and a kids club, making it a great choice for families, and there are half-board options to make your stay even smoother.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Luxury | Each W hotel has its own personality, and the W Algarve is no exception! Located in the resort area of Sesmarias, you’ll have all the luxe 5-star amenities you crave, like a gorgeous pool, an ultra-modern lobby, and a luxurious spa. The rooms are quirky with that typical W aesthetic of funky-meets-modern for a unique hotel experience like nowhere else in the Algarve.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Faro

Pros:
– Stunning historic old town with traditional Portuguese charm
– Some of the best shopping and dining in the Algarve
– Local international airport for easy arrival

Cons:
– Limited nightlife options even for being the capital of the Algarve
– Not on the coast
– Rental car is necessary for enjoying Algarve beaches

The capital of the Algarve, Faro, is generally the first stop for travelers flying directly to the southern region of Portugal.

It’s super convenient, as Faro International Airport is only 4 kilometers west of Faro and operates flights to many European capitals and big cities.

The two main reasons to spend time in Faro are to explore the beautiful old town, with its landmarks and museums, and to discover the Nature Park of Ria Formosa along the coast.

The park and lagoon of Ria Formosa are great spots to stroll and watch the birds, especially the flamingos.

the arco da vila in the main town of faro, the heart of the algarve and the capital of the area

In Faro’s old town, admire the neo-classical architecture, especially the monumental Arco da Vila, and be sure to check out the exhibitions at the Municipal Museum of Faro.

If you’ve got even more time, visit the creepy bone chapel Capela dos Ossos de Faro along with the 13th-century city cathedral Igreja de Santa Maria.

The Faro Marina is lovely to enjoy an evening walk on the water stroll around the charming Jardim Manuel Bivar, and visit the science museum Algarve Life Sciences Center.

As for beaches near Faro, Praia de Faro and Praia da Barrinha are the closest ones to town.

Where to Stay in Faro:

Budget | Sunlight House is a funky little guesthouse with private rooms, with adorable bright yellow and pastel decor that looks like a Pinterest board came to life. The rooms themselves are more muted, reminiscent of a traditional B&B.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Mid-Range | The lovely little Lemon Tree Stay is a cute B&B right on Praça da Liberdade in the heart of Faro. At its heart is — you guessed it — a courtyard with a lemon tree, where guests can get away from it all. The rooms are minimalist-modern, with gorgeously updated bathrooms and a shared kitchen area you can use.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Luxury | The most luxurious option in town, 3HB Faro is still a steal! With two restaurants, a rooftop pool and bar, a fitness center, a spa with a sauna and indoor plunge pool, you could get wrapped up in your hotel and never leave. Luckily, the beach is a quick drive away (shuttles are also available).

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Olhão

white and blue houses typical of the fishing village of Olhao, Algarve, Portugal

Pros:
– Set among islets with beautiful beaches on Ilha da Culatra and Ilha da Armona
– Fishing town with excellent seafood restaurants
– One of few Algarve towns that is not overdeveloped and maintains its charm

Cons:
– Not particularly known for its nightlife options
– Not many significant attractions in town proper
– Difficulty parking in town unless accommodations offers it

Olhão is a quaint town just east of Faro, surrounded by a set of islets along the coastline.

The nearby Culatra Island provides long stretches of sandy beach and is connected to Olhão via a regular ferry service.

The other island connected by ferry is Ilha da Armona, which also boasts a wide beach, Praia da Armona.

In Olhão’s old town, the highlight is the Mercados de Olhão, a buzzing bazaar inside two historic red-brick buildings overlooking the lagoon.

Doors to two different traditional houses, one abandoned and one being renovated in Olhao, Algarve

Whether you want to buy fresh seafood, sample Portuguese delicacies, or buy some souvenirs to take home, this lively market is the place to go.

Explore the small town, stroll around the marina and nearby parks, and eat delicious local dishes.

To enjoy tasty grilled fish and seafood dishes, head to Vai e Volta or Chá Chá Chá.

To the west of Olhão, visit the Salinas do Grelha.

While you’re there, take a tour of the salt pans to learn about their century-old history in salt production, get a salt mud treatment, and enjoy floating in the so-called “Dead Sea”, a small lake with a salt concentration similar to its namesake.

Where to Stay in Olhão:

Budget | The budget-friendly Hotel Cidade de Olhão has small rooms that nevertheless have all you need, including a work area, en-suite bathrooms with tubs, WiFi, and A/C. There’s also a small shared pool area in case you want to take a dip in the comfort of your own hotel.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Mid-Range | The lovely Pure Formosa Concept Hotel is a stunning option with a rooftop pool overlooking the river and nature preserve, with sun loungers and umbrellas to keep you shaded. The shared spaces are luxe and minimalist, and the rooms are too, with sand-colored furnishings with wood and earth-toned details.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Luxury | The Real Marina Hotel & Spa, a 5-star overlooking the Ria Formosa Nature Park, is a stunning option. Relax at the large pool surrounded by loungers or at the spa center with a sauna, Turkish bath, and hot tub. Rooms are spacious with luxe bathrooms with details like marble counters and soaking tubs.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Tavira

Pros:
– Not overdeveloped, quiet local charm
– Charming town center with Tavira Castle and Roman Bridge
– Near nature preserves like Rio Formosa Nature Park

Cons:
– Limited nightlife options in town
– Doesn’t have the prettiest beaches in the area
– Very far east so not close to sights like Sagres, Lagos, Carvoiero, etc.

Located toward the eastern end of the Algarve coastline, close to the Spanish border, Tavira is a lovely town straddling the Gilão River.

Like most towns in the area, Tavira is separated from the coast by a set of islets and inlets forming the Ria Formosa lagoon.

Staying in Tavira is a great idea if you want to combine beach days and cultural visits to the historical landmarks in the beautiful old town.

Castelo de Tavira is the main sight, featuring delightful gardens and gorgeous views over the town’s rooftops.

The nearby Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo is a National Monument of Portugal, featuring a bell tower offering panoramic views that you’ll absolutely want to bring your camera for.

View of the historic center of the city of Tavira with the clock tower of the church of Santa Maria do Castelo, white-washed houses all around in this charming algarve town

Explore the rest of the small but charming old town, walk along the river, cross the medieval bridge Ponte Antiga de Tavira, and visit the beautiful Igreja da Misericórdia.

If you want to shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, and local products, head over to the Tavira Market.

Since it’s slightly inland, Tavira is further from the beaches than other towns in the western Algarve.

The closest beach is Praia da Ilha de Tavira, stretching along Tavira Island. You can reach the island via a scenic ferry ride along the Gilão River from Tavira’s center.

Where to Stay in Tavira:

Budget | In the heart of town on Praça da República, Formosa Guest House is located right next to the Roman Bridge and other key sights. Beyond that, it has charming rooms that combine new and old, modern and antique. There are two kitchens to share and each room has its own updated, modern bathroom.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Mid-Range | The modern design hotel OZADI Tavira Hotel is minimalist with fun colorful touches and other elements of whimsy like geometric prints. The bathrooms are recently refreshed with lovely soaking tubs to relax in at the end of the day. There’s a great outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant with pool views.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Sagres

Pros:
– Rugged, wild coastline with both Atlantic and Mediterranean access
– Active destination, great for surfing and hiking
– Excellent seafood restaurants

Cons:
– Quite windy compared to other locations due to Atlantic winds
– Far from places like Lagos, Albufeira, Faro since it’s so far west
– Some beaches are difficult to access, not great for limited mobility issues or families with small kids

At the far southwestern tip of Portugal, you’ll find the small town of Sagres, the perfect place to escape the crowds of the most popular beachside towns.

While not many people choose Sagres as their base to explore the Algarve, the area is popular among day visitors.

Long ago, people once thought Cabo Sagres, a promontory overlooking the seemingly endless Atlantic Ocean, marked the end of the world.

There, you can visit the Sagres Fortress and lighthouse and check out the giant Compass Rose.

a person walking along the sagress fortress in the algarve coast on a summer day with some clouds in the sky above her

The nearby Cabo de São Vicente, with its red lighthouse sitting at the edge of the cliffs, provides more scenic views of the coastline.

Between the two promontories, you can relax on the spectacular Praia do Beliche, a beach with gorgeous golden sand backed by tall limestone cliffs.

Another scenic view closer to the town of Sagres is Ponta da Atalaia, an area featuring beautiful walking trails that offer sweeping views.

The closest beaches to Sagres are Praia da Mareta and Praia da Baleeira, on both sides of Ponta da Atalaia.

If you’re looking for great spots to enjoy tasty local dishes, try the fresh seafood at the unassuming A Sereia or the cute little surf-inspired restaurant The Hangout.

Where to Stay in Sagres:

Budget | The cheerful Casa Azul Sagres offers rooms and apartments just a 5-mintue walk from the beaches of Sagres. The rooms have balconies with stunning views of the surrounding nature, as well as WiFi and A/C and seating areas. You can even arrange to take surf lessons here!

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Mid-Range | Right amidst Costa Vincentina Natural Park, the lovely design hotel Memmo Baleeira is a real gem among the natural beauty of this part of the Algarve. Outdoor amenities like an infinity pool, sun loungers, and fire pits bring nature and the hotel together. There is also an on-site spa with an indoor pool and fitness area. The rooms are spacious and modern with great views of the surrounding nature.

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Aljezur

Pros:
– Charming small hilltop town with loads of character
– Near hiking trails like Rota Vicentina
– Great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Cons:
– One of the furthest towns northwest; far from other Algarve towns
– Limited dining options, especially in off-season
– Infrastructure is not the best for people with mobility issues or small kids

One of the most underrated places to stay in the Algarve is the small town of Aljezur.

The town is not on the coast, so it tends to be overlooked by people who head to the Algarve exclusively for the beach.

However, it’s their loss, as this town is a little gem worth discovering!

Aljezur lies just inland off the western coast of the Algarve, south of the beautiful coastline of the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina.

Wooden walkway to the beach Praia da Amoreira, District Aljezur, with stunning spread of sandy area with waves washing in from the ocean

This is an ideal stop if you want to discover the wild coast within the protected area, with its spectacular, secluded beaches and impressive scenic views.

The Castle of Aljezur sits on a hill overlooking the town and surrounding valleys.

At the foot of the castle hill, the small town of Aljezur is a cobweb of little alleys with charming, whitewashed houses.

Visit the Museu Municipal de Aljezur to learn about the local history, and check out the religious art at Museu de Arte Sacra Monsenhor Francisco Pardal.

Within a short drive from Aljezur, you can relax on gorgeous beaches like Praia da Amoreira, Praia da Carriagem, or Praia do Vale dos Homens.

A bit farther south of Aljezur, you can check out the renowned surf beach Praia da Bordeira.

Where to Stay in Aljezur:

Budget | The petite Hotel Vale da Telha offers quite a lot for its small price tag: outdoor pool and jacuzzi with lounge areas, bathrooms with excellent showers, and a tasty breakfast! It’s a great base for people exploring the nature area around Aljezur.

➤Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Mid-Range | There are five little villas at Herdade Monte Do Sol, a charming little countryside farm hotel outside of Aljezur. The villas are all standalone, with exposed beam ceilings and original stone walls, comfortable with A/C for the summer and a fireplace for the winter. They share a pool and there are even goats, horses, and other animals on the farm property!

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

Luxury | The unique Praia do Canal Nature Resort effortlessly combines the area’s natural beauty with a minimalist resort with a hybrid indoor-outdoor concept. There’s an infinity pool with submerged loungers built in, perfect for taking in an Atlantic sunset. The rooms are separated into their own little standalone units, with stunning views, patios, and gorgeous boutique furnishings. There’s even the grand suite which has its own rooftop bath in a stunning marble soaking tub!

➤ Check availability, prices, and reviews here

The 13 Best Minho & Douro Valley Wine Tours From Porto [My Top Picks]

February 1, 2024April 14, 2023 by Allison Green

a selection of wines in douro valley portugal on a ledge wtih the river behind it

Portugal is known for many things: from its dramatic coastline to its decadent castles and its dreamy azulejos, it’s become a fan favorite in Europe for many reasons.

But there’s another big draw to Portugal for those in-the-know… its wines!

Just how good Portugal’s wine scene really is is a well-kept secret amongst wine geeks… mostly because Portuguese wine is still rather affordable, but it might not be once word gets out!

However, there is one wine that Portugal produces that practically everyone knows: port, designated officially as Vinho do Porto.

Table with wine and pastries in the view over the river in Porto, Portugal

Port is produced in the Douro Valley region, close to the lively tourist hub of Porto, Portugal’s second-most famous city…

While Porto is a great city to spend one day or two days in, it’s also a great launching off pad for adventures to the Northern Portugal wine region.

So it should come as no surprise that there are so many Douro Valley wine tours from Porto (and tons of great day trips from Porto, generally).

While you could rent a car and tour the Douro Valley independently… that would mean you’d have to cut back on your tastings, and who wants to do that?

Especially when there’s so much tasty port to be had!

Port is a delicious and complex fortified dessert wine that will have even avowed “anything-but-sweet” wine lovers eating – rather, drinking – their words.

There are many sweet and fortified wines out there in the world, but there’s a reason port is practically synonymous with dessert wine: it’s iconic for a reason.

Generally, Port is made from red wine grapes, but if you explore the wine scene in Porto, you’ll also find some delicious white port that rarely makes it overseas!

And if you’re not a fan of sweet wine, fret not – Porto is also close to the Minho region, where the ever-so-slightly effervescent Vinho Verde white wine is produced.

I’ve poured through (get it?) all the wine tours from Porto because trust me: there’s a lot out there and it’s quite overwhelming.

I’ve distilled it down (sorry, I can’t stop making port puns) to the ones that truly stand out amongst the crowd, either for being the most highly-rated favorites or for offering a unique experience that other Porto wine tours don’t.

Here we go!

My Top 3 Picks: Douro Wine Tours from Porto

No time to read the full article about these wine tours and just want my top 3 picks and the highlights of each?

#1 TOP PICK

Image of two red wine glasses with vineyards in Douro Valley, Portugal on the background. Clinking glasses in celebration

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Douro Valley Tour with Wine Tasting, Cruise and Lunch
✔️ Visit two wineries
✔️ Scenic hour-long cruise on the Douro River

#2 PICK

woman in a sunhat and sundress holding a glass of red wine looking to the vineyards and the peaceful river in Douro Valley, Portugal on a sunny day

Douro Valley Vineyards Tour with Lunch
✔️ Visit three different wineries
✔️ Local-style lunch in a vineyard setting

#3 PICK

more glasses of wine to taste in the douro valley wine region, two reds and one white, next to grapes, in front of the douro river view

Douro Valley Private Full–Day Tour from Porto
✔️ Visit two incredible wineries
✔️ Sightseeing on the Douro River via a one-hour river cruise

Check schedules and prices of this wine tour in Douro here!

The 13 Top Wine Tours From Porto

1. Douro Valley Tour with Wine Tasting, Cruise and Lunch

⌛ Tour Length: 9.5 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.7/5 stars (1250+ reviews) | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
-Trusted & top rated with 1,200+ reviews
-Two wineries visits, lunch & coffee break in Peso da Régua
-Scenic hour-long cruise on the Douro River

➜ Read more about this wine tasting tour here!

This full-day Douro Valley wine tour from Porto pampers you for a full day, driving and cruising through the most scenic parts of Northern Portugal (while plying you with delicious port tastings to boot).

With well over a thousand ratings, this wine tour is one of the most popular Douro Valley day trips from Porto, and when you look at all that’s included, it’s not hard to see why!

Your day wine tasting in the Douro Valley starts with a trip to Peso da Régua, a charming town right in the heart of the winemaking region.

“This is a trip to definitely take. We had a great day in a small group and our guide Pedro was excellent. The different vineyards we visited gave a good learning experience of how Port wine is produced. The cruise was also really nice and relaxing. Everything fit so well, the views, the wine tastings and were not too overwhelming.“
Read more reviews here!

You’ll have a quick coffee pick-me-up in town to perk you up after the drive, and then it’s time to get to tasting!

On the tour, you’ll get the chance to sample a variety of delicious ports at two port houses (quintas) while enjoying spectacular views of the vineyards.

And you’ll need something to soak up all that port, so don’t worry – lunch is also included in the tour. Fish, meat, and vegetarian options are all available.

After that, it’s time to get back to Porto. But the fun doesn’t stop there, because this tour saved the best views for last!

You can enjoy a one-hour cruise along the Douro River, the perfect chance to sightsee and get to know some of the other people on your tour!

2. Douro Valley Full-Day Wine Trip with Lunch

autumn grapevine in Douro River Valley with reddish and green leaves and hills in the background with fall colors changing shades

⌛ Tour Length: 9 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.8/5 stars (645+ reviews) |🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
–Olive oil tastings & cheese pairing with port
-A scenic tour of the charming Pinhão
-River cruise in the middle of the day

➜ Read more about this Douro valley wine tour here!

This is another popular Douro wine tour from Porto that comes highly recommended with over 600 reviews and a near-perfect rating.

Your first stop is Croft Vineyards, where you’ll learn the intricacies of producing quality port wine.

But of course, you learn best by doing, right? So obviously, you’ll need to do a little port wine tasting.

Plus, it sure doesn’t hurt to have an array of Portuguese cheeses accompanying your port wine tasting!

After your first tasting has gotten you feeling all warm and fuzzy, Next up is Pinhão, a scenic village in the heart of the Douro wine region.

“The vinyards were well chosen, lots to taste (including cheese, honey and olive oil) and great lunch. We were a small group of 5 and were never rushed, it didn‘t feel like a typical organised tour! Pedro was a wonderful guide and driver: funny, knowledgeable and overall a great guy!”
Read more reviews here!

This Porto wine tour differs from the first in that you do a scenic boat cruise between the two winery visits rather than on the way home.

It’s a nice way to sober up between tastings, and the light in the valley is beautiful at this time of day too!

After a classic Portuguese lunch (vegetarian options included), it’s time to hit another local winery for some more tastings – this time, you’ll visit a small local producer who specializes in everyday table wines.

After learning about these regional wines, you’ll end the tour with some olive oil tastings for good measure!

P.S.: The drive back home as your day trip from Porto to the Douro Valley comes to an end is as scenic as it gets!

Check schedules and prices of this full day wine tour here!

3. Douro Valley Vineyards Tour with Lunch

⌛ Tour Length: 9 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.9/5 stars (340+ reviews) | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
–Visit three different wineries, more than other tours
-Opportunity to compare family-run wineries and larger producers
-Local-style lunch in a vineyard setting

➜ Read more about this wine tour here!

This Douro Valley tour from Porto is for the wine overachievers: here, you’ll visit not two wineries like most Porto wine tours, but actually three!

With three tastings scheduled, here’s a lot of ground to cover in 9 hours, and your guide will help you make the most of every moment of your port wine tasting day trip!

The tour covers three premier wineries in the Douro Valley region, ensuring that you’ll get to experience the best wine tasting Porto has to offer.

Besides the unforgettable DOC and port wine, the first winery offers a thorough tour of its cellars too.

“Fantastic experience!!! The landscape of the Douro Valley is breathtaking and we tasted a lot of wines!!! The lunch was delicious and they accomodated for food intolerances. Steve was a great guide and not only was he full of information but quite the entertainer, so we were constantly laughing. I really enjoyed this full day experience.”
Read more reviews here!

On your visit to the second winery, you’ll get to try even more wines – but not before you also fill your belly, since this winery is where you’ll enjoy a delicious Portuguese lunch!

Your last winery is a big-name port producer, and it offers another cellar tour along with some prime countryside views.

By seeing all three vineyards, you’ll get to compare the differences between smaller, family-run quintas and larger-scale wine producers.

Before heading back to Porto, there’s an unforgettable drive along Route 222. It’s the perfect ending for photographers and sightseers!

Check the availability and inclusions of this wine tour here!

4. Porto: Douro Valley Hike and Winery Tour w/ Tasting & Picnic

⌛ Tour Length: 10 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.9/5 stars (10+ reviews) | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
–Active tour with less time in transit and more time out in nature
-A scenic hike through Douro Valley to reach Pinhão
-Tasting of three wines alongside a picnic lunch

➜ Read more about this wine & tasting tour here!

You’ll need a pair of sturdy shoes for this wine tour from Porto, since it also includes a hike in the Douro Valley!

If you prefer to be out and active rather than sitting in a van all day being shuttled from location to location, this is the perfect day trip to the Douro Valley for you.

You’ll be hiking through the countryside and its vineyard-covered rolling hills to reach your first winery in Pinhão – and your reward is definitely worth it.

“I expected something harder as it was mentioned in other reviews, however for a hiker is easy, for a beginner might be a bit harder but super doable. Even expecting something more challenging, I have to say I really loved the day and the picnic was the highlight.”
Read more reviews here!

What better way to take a break from your hike than with a picnic? You’ll taste three wines – both red and white – alongside a selection of charcuterie, bread, and cakes.

You have 10 hours to work with and nobody to rush you, so feel free to explore the surrounding nature after the picnic!

And that’s not even in Pinhão! Once you actually reach the scenic village, you get to walk around at your leisure.

If you pay a little extra, you can even do a boat tour and immerse yourself in the heart of the river that gives the Douro Valley its name.

Check packages and schedules of this wine tour here!

5. Porto: Douro Valley Wine Tour and Boat Cruise with Lunch with Locals

a election of wines in douro valley portugal on a ledge wtih the river behind it

⌛ Tour Length: 9 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.9/5 stars (85+ reviews) | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
-Meet small, family-run wineries producing red & white wines
-Boat tour of the Douro Valley
-Local lunch in a tasca in Pinhão

➜ Read more about this wine tour here!

Often, we forget about all the hard work it takes to make the delicious wines we drink – but this tour focuses on the people behind the small family-run wineries in the Douro Valley.

This tour focuses only on small wineries, so you’ll get a more intimate experience than you would at larger wine producers.

Besides red and white wines, your first winery includes olive oil tastings, as well as local bread, cheese, and jam.

Andre was an excellent guide! Shared lots of fun facts with us and had great energy. He ensured everything flowed smoothly and was an enjoyable day for all. Couldn’t recommend this trip enough!
Read more reviews here!

That’s not all you’ll be eating, though – the gorgeous village of Pinhão is home to a lovely local tasca, where you can enjoy a two-course lunch.

Next up is the centerpiece, the boat tour of Douro Valley. It’s hard to resist a wine tour from Porto that includes a one-hour boat cruise!

One more scenic drive and winery visit later, you can head back to Porto with your heart and belly full!

Check availability and prices of this wine tour here!

6. Private Douro Valley 4WD Tour with Wine Tasting and Picnic

View from a miradouro above the Douro River with vineyards and quintas below and the river bisecting the valley

⌛ Tour Length: 10 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.9/5 stars (10+ reviews) | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
-Going off-road for a unique exploration of the Douro Valley
-Sampling Portugal’s finest port wines
-Enjoying a picnic at a scenic vista point

➜ Read more about this wine and tasting tour here!

This private wine tour of the Douro Valley takes you off the beaten path – literally! – to explore the Douro Valley via 4WD.

As you make your way through the mountains, marvel at the gorgeous landscape and pass a series of charming wineries.

“Our guides, Diogo and Rue, were funny, entertaining and well-informed about not only the history of Douro Valley and port wine, but about the history of Portugal. My friends and I had an incredible time off-roading with these two, learning about the area, and sampling Croft port.”
Read more reviews here!

You’re in for a smooth ride despite the bumpy terrain, and your guides will share all kinds of interesting knowledge about Portugal and the Douro Valley.

After a small picnic at a scenic spot, you get to the main course – the delicious port wines over at a classic quinta!

The ride there is absolutely unforgettable, but wait until you’ve seen the Valley at sunset on your return trip!

Check schedules and prices of this private wine tour here!

7. Douro Valley: Private Premium Wine Tasting and Boat Trip with Lunch

Cruise ship at Foz do Tua, Douro Valley, Portugal, with the Port wine vineyards in the background

⌛ Tour Length: 8 hours | 🌟 Rating: New! | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
-Two-hour yacht ride along the Douro River
-Lunch at a restaurant with a panoramic view
-Private experience with two winery tastings, including port & DOC wines

➜ Read more about this Douro wine tasting tour here!

If any private wine tour from Porto deserves to be called premium, it’s this one! I mean, how many wine tours also include a yacht cruise?

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves – first you’ll get picked up at your hotel and brought to a prestigious Douro Valley winery, where you’ll get to try both regional DOC varietals as well as the star of the show, port wine.

That said, things really pick up when you hop onto the yacht and sail the Douro River!

Unlike other wine tours on this list, this is a two-hour cruise – meaning you have at least twice as much time on the water than any of the other tours!

The two-hour cruise includes food, wine, and countless fascinating stories about one of Portugal’s most distinguished regions.

“Terrific trip to Douro Valley. Antonio was an excellent guide and driver. He was accommodating, knowledgeable, and polite.”
Read more reviews here!

The Douro River played a big part in transporting wine from the Douro Valley to Porto back in the day, and having this knowledge in your pocket will definitely enrich your appreciation of the next tastings!

Before that, next up is a full-on lunch at a restaurant overlooking the river. Even more marvelous views for you to take in!

Topping things off is another winery visit for one last taste of DOC wines and delicious port before returning back to Porto.

Note that this is a private wine tour and there is a minimum of four participants in order to book the tour.

Check prices and schedules of this wine & tasting tour here!

8. Private Douro Valley Premium Tour

a traditional rabelo boat that is used to transport wine on the douro river

⌛ Tour Length: 9 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.5/5 stars (10+ reviews) | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
-Boat tour in a rabelo, a traditional boat of Porto
-A private walking tour of a typical Douro Valley village
-Trying different varietals other tours don’t cover such as Moscatel

➜ Read more about this premium tour here!

If you want an intimate look into the Douro Valley, it doesn’t get any better than this private full-day Porto to Douro Valley day trip!

Once you’ve oohed and aahed your way through the scenic drive into the Douro Valley, you’ll arrive at the first vineyard, where a local producer will proudly have you sample some of his finest work!

After that, you’ll get some fresh air as you take a walk through a local Douro Valley village that’s begging to be explored.

All that drinking and sightseeing will make you hungry, but this tour takes care of that with a feast at an 18th-century manor house!

“João is an exceptional tour guide. He has a deep knowledge of subject matter for his tours; food, history, culture, You ask a question and get ready for a very interesting and factual explanation. I highly recommend any of his excursionS and plan to use him again”
Read more reviews here!

If that wasn’t enough, there’s also a one-hour boat ride you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Because this is such an intimate tour, you’ll get the chance to ride on a traditional rabelo boat that was historically used to transport wine.

Most tours have you go on a larger river cruising boat, but this is the real deal.

Rabelos are to the Douro River as much as gondolas are to Venice, so it’s a truly iconic experience.

And since there’s no such thing as a bad view in the Douro Valley, you’ll admire the sunlight changing the colors of the hills as your driver takes the panoramic Route 222 back to Porto.

Check schedules and prices of this private premium tour here!

9. Douro Valley Private Full–Day Tour from Porto

⌛ Tour Length: 9 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.8/5 stars (30+ reviews) | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
–Private tour bookable for individuals or groups
-Two fantastic tastings including port & a generous lunch
-A 1-hour boat tour before going back to Porto

➜ Read more about this full-day tour here!

Here’s a private wine tour from Porto you can enjoy totally by yourself or just with your own group!

During your lovely drive to the Douro Valley, you’ll kick things off with some information on the region’s winemaking history.

“We were picked up at our apartment. Traveled to Duro Valley where we toured 2 Vineyards, took a boat ride on the Duro river and had a great lunch before we were brought back to our apartment. A tour worth taking!”
Read more reviews here!

You get to try wine from two incredible wineries, including port wine samples. You’ll be hard pressed to decide which one is better!

Naturally, a Portuguese lunch goes great with wine, and you definitely won’t be leaving the tour hungry!

After a full day of wining and dining, the cherry on top is getting to do some sightseeing on the Douro River via a one-hour river cruise.

Check availabilty and prices of this wine tour here!

10. Private Tour of the Douro Valley: Full-Day Boat, Train, and Lunch Tour

historic train going through the douro valley region

⌛ Tour Length: 8 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.4/5 stars (15+ reviews) | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
–Traveling through a historic wine region by boat and train
-Enjoying lunch with the locals of Foz do Tua
-A wine-tasting session in the afternoon set to amazing views

➜ Read more about this private tour in Douro here!

Yeah, yeah, a lot of these day trips to the Douro Valley from Porto also include a boat cruise.

But this tour takes it up a notch: if boat rides aren’t enough, this wine tour from Porto throws a scenic train ride into the mix!

The routes you’ll be traveling (both by river and rail) were once used to transport wine barrels from the Douro to Porto. Talk about an immersive tour!

“This is the best way to experience the Douro Valley. It is a journey through one of the most beautiful valleys of the world by boat and train. The local food and wine is superb while enjoying a stunning view. Our guide Pedro was extremely professional and gave us a lot more than expected. He loves his job and was the key for a perfect vacation day at the Douro Valley in Portugal. We will return!”
Read more reviews here!

After reaching Foz do Tua from Pinhão, you’ll take a short walk to a restaurant and have a local lunch.

Nearly everyone you meet is in the winemaking business, so you’re guaranteed to meet some interesting people!

The wine tasting comes at the end of the tour, and you’ll really be in the spirit of things by then!

Not to mention, the unique landscape of the Valley is a sight you’ll never forget.

What could be better than admiring nature with friends on a private tour?

Check availabilty and prices of this private tour here!

11. Private Off the Beaten Path Douro Valley Tour

view of wineries of the douro valley from an overlook point

⌛ Tour Length: 8.5 hours | 🌟 Rating: 5/5 stars (85+ reviews) | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
–Enjoying wine samples from high-quality family wineries
-Eating a festive lunch for an added fee
-Seeing the hidden gems of the Douro Valle

➜ Read more about this tour in Douro here!

This wine tour from Porto will show you a side of the Douro Valley you never knew existed!

Following the Douro River, you’ll make your way to a boutique winery in Sabrosa to start things off.

Peso Da Régua is next up with another great tasting, and you can even grab some lunch here at a local tasca, though it’s not included in the cost of the tour.

“So very enjoyable, relaxing, beautiful ride out to Douro Valley, great tastings, Joao was so very nice and very informative.”
Read more reviews here!

The alheira (a special kind of Portuguese sausage) is exquisite, but there’s also chocolate cake served with pistachio ice cream if you have a sweet tooth.

Lamego is your last stop, where you can check out a family-run winery and taste some of their best stuff.

Also, your guide is the person to take you through the region. Feel free to ask anything about these lesser-known parts of the Valley!

Check availabilty and prices of this tour here!

12. Vinho Verde Wineries and Guimarães Tour with Lunch

Vineyards prepared for the collection of grapes, agricultural field in Minho Region, the biggest wine producing region in Portugal

⌛ Tour Length: 8 hours | 🌟 Rating: New! | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
–One of few tours that showcases Vinho Verde wines
-Getting to visit a historic manor
-Eating lunch in and exploring Guimarães

➜ Read more about this wine tour here!

OK, so we’ve focused a lot on red wines and port so far.

But let’s not forget that Northern Portugal is also where some of the country’s most popular white wines are produced!

This is a must-try wine tour from Porto if you want to taste some Vinho Verde, which is Portuguese for “green wine.”

This “green wine” is named so more for its youthfulness than its color, as it’s a young wine meant to be drank quickly after harvest rather than saved for posterity and aging.

On the tour, you start your tastings at a centuries-old manor, where you get to try Vinho Verde as well as Alvarinho, another delicious white wine varietal.

“Amazing day with our guide Hugo. Informative and entertaining with much food and great wine. We visited 2 excellent small vineyards with knowledgeable hosts and generous amounts of wine. We then had a lovely lunch in Guimaraes and Hugo guided us around this great town. Do not miss this.”
Read more reviews here!

You’ll also get a tour of the property, and there sure is a lot to see!

Next, another winemaker will welcome you to their lovely home and teach you about the production process.

Finally, there’s some culture to throw into the mix on this tour, as you’ll also pay a visit to the charming city of Guimarães.

Guimarães is the old capital of Portugal, and it’s a prime setting for a hearty lunch and even more wine before some sightseeing around this beautiful city to let the food and drinks settle before returning to Portugal!

Check availabilty and prices of this wine tour here!

13. Private Vinho Verde Tour: Visit 2 Wineries with Wine Tastings & Lunch

Picking the grapes in a vineyard farm of Green Wine, Minho, Portugal

⌛ Tour Length: 10 hours | 🌟 Rating: 5/5 stars (10+ reviews) | 🍷 Book Now

Unique Features:
–Tasting premier Vinho Verde from two high-end wineries
-A delicious lunch and crash course on the region
-Immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Minho

➜ Read more about this wine and tasting tour here!

If you like the idea of trying lots of Vinho Verde, here’s another great choice for a wine tour from Porto for you!

The tour covers the historic Minho region, of which Vinho Verde is a subregion.

This area is renowned for its quality wine, but in particular, its white wine shines the brightest.

This is an entirely private tour, so the whole experience feels very intimate and personalized.

“Our guide was amazing – picked us up at our hotel for a beautiful drive to Vinho Verde region. we visited two wineries, the first including lunch with a wonderful host.”
Read more reviews here!

The tour includes the chance to try Vinho Verde of the highest quality from two premier wineries and learn about its unique production method.

After some drinks, you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering Portuguese lunch as you listen to stories about what makes this region so special.

The tour is pretty long, but since it starts early in the morning, you’ll probably still have time for an evening out in Porto!

Check availabilty and prices of this tour here!

The Ultimate One Day in Porto Mini Itinerary

February 1, 2024March 31, 2023 by Roxana Fanaru

a beautiful cloister courtyard area in a religious building in porto

If your travel plans end up passing through Porto for one day and you’re looking for a quick adventure in this beautiful city, it can be done.

The trick is to have a thorough, detailed plan to make the most of it so you don’t miss anything!

Luckily, we’ve got just the guide for you.

Porto is home to an incredible array of historical landmarks, gorgeous churches, and spectacular views of the Douro River.

While at least two days in Porto is ideal, it’d be a shame to miss out on sampling a bit of Porto’s best sights, even if you only have one day in Porto.

The view of the city of Porto from across the Douro River as seen from Vila Nova de Gaia

Foodies, contain your excitement: Porto is also the perfect place for a tasting of its signature port wine (no need to rent a car and go all the way to the Douro Valley for that — though it is worth it!), or to devour delicious Portuguese food.

In this short guide, you’ll find a condensed but complete one-day itinerary to experience everything Porto has to offer in a short amount of time.

During the two years I lived in Portugal, I visited Porto on many occasions, almost every time on short trips of just a day or two.

So, if I do say so myself, you’re in good hands when it comes to planning your unforgettable whirlwind trip through Porto!

In the guide that follows, I’ll take you through all the top highlights you can’t miss in this charming Portuguese city, even if you’ve only got 24 hours in Porto!

And if you have another day… you can either follow this two-day Porto itinerary or take a day trip to the Douro Valley for some wine tasting!

What to Know Before Visiting Porto

Pretty facade in the town of Porto with a traditional market

If you’re visiting Porto on a short trip, you can save time by sticking to the historical center and getting around everywhere on foot.

This heart of the city is home to all of the most important landmarks, so you won’t need any public transportation.

Be warned, though! Porto’s a city built on hills, so you’re in for a bit of a workout with all the climbing ahead of you.

Another thing to be aware of is the weather in Porto. Unlike the south of Portugal, or even Lisbon, Porto tends to get more rain. Like, a lot more.

Did you know Porto is rainier than London? Yes, that London.

During the winter months, the temperatures can be downright chilly, and it can rain for several days in a row.

Allison Green standing in front of azulejos

The best seasons to visit Porto are spring and autumn, but you’ll want to avoid the Easter period due to holiday crowds.

If you visit in summer, brace yourself for high temperatures and huge crowds of summer tourists, especially during the peak months of July and August.

If you ask me, it’s best to avoid these busy times and visit when you’ll have a little more breathing room!

One Day in Porto Itinerary

Start with a delicious breakfast.

Begin your day in the Vitória district, where you can have breakfast to fuel up for a busy day ahead!

Wander over to Praça de Carlos Alberto and stop by one of the many nearby cafés.

You’ll have a ton of delicious options to choose from, but just trust your appetite, and I guarantee you’ll leave full and happy.

Options in the area will cover a wide range of tastes, from a typically Portuguese breakfast or a tasty and filling brunch.

Some of the best places in the area are Zenith, O Diplomata, and, for the coffee fiends among you, SO Coffee Roasters.

Admire the azulejos at Igreja do Carmo.

All right, now that you’re fed and ready to set off on your explorations for the day, let’s get to it!

Just a short walk from breakfast, you’ll find one of the most iconic churches in Porto, Igreja do Carmo.

The church’s most distinctive feature is the side façade covered in azulejos, so be sure to stop by and take a closer look.

These gorgeous scenes depict the foundation of the Carmelite Order on Mount Carmel.

It’s also every Instagrammer in Porto’s favorite spot, so you will likely have to wait to snap a good photo here!

Igreja do Carmo is a church in the Baroque and Rococo styles,dating to the second half of the 18th century, and it’s located next to the existing Igreja dos Carmelitas Descalços.

Interestingly, building two churches so close to each other wasn’t allowed, an ingenious solution had to be devised.

A house was built between them, turning them into a single building — or better yet — a twin church.

The house became known as Casa Escondida do Porto (Porto’s hidden house).

After admiring the beautiful church from the outside, you might think you’ve seen the best this church has to offer, but there’s so much more inside..

For just €4.50, you get access to the entire site, including the church, the Hidden House, the catacombs, the sacristy, and the library.

Enjoy bookstore heaven at Livraria Lello.

Interior of Livraria Lello, the famous bookstore with the red staircase in Porto

As if visiting an ancient church library wasn’t enough, the next stop on your journey through Porto is a bookworm’s paradise.

Only a few steps from Igreja do Carmo, you’ll come across one of the world’s most famous bookstores, Livraria Lello.

This gorgeous old bookstore opened the doors of its current location in the early 20th century, but its history starts even earlier, in the second half of the 19th century.

The iconic wooden staircase with the red steps became the defining emblematic feature of the bookstore, and played no small part in giving it a reputation as the prettiest bookstore in the world.

The bookstore’s fame rose again when rumors spread that it inspired J. K. Rowling when writing Harry Potter (specifically that the staircase inspired the stairs inside Hogwarts), as she lived in Porto for much of her early writing career.

bookstore in porto with famous staircase and stained glass ceiling

The author denied the claims, but the rumors had spread widely at that point, and the line between fact and fiction blurred, increasing the fame of this already-famous bookstore.

Livraria Lello is now so popular that you need a ticket to enter it.

The good news though, is that you can apply the entire value of the ticket voucher (€5) when you purchase anything from the bookstore.

That said, the books are marked up quite a bit, so it isn’t the deal you think it is.

If you love books and need to pick up your next vacation read before continuing on your travels, why not pay a visit to this charming little bookstore?

The rumors may not be true, but the charm of this place is undeniable.

Visit Clerigos Church and climb up its Tower.

From Livraria Lello, walk two minutes to Clerigos Church and Tower (see how insanely walkable Porto is?)

The architectural complex of the Clerics is a large one, consisting of a church, a tower, and even a museum.

The entire complex dates back to the 18th century, and it became a National Monument in 1910.

At a breathtaking 75 meters tall (nearly 250 feet!), the Tower of the Clerics offers of the best scenic views in Porto.

View from Clerigos tower over the rest of Porto city center

To get to the top, you’ll have to climb 225 steps, but once you get to the top (and catch your breath!) the view is worth the effort!

In addition to climbing the tower, you can visit the church and the museum dedicated to the Brotherhood of the Clerics housed in the House of the Brotherhood.

The entire visit costs €8, or you can get a night pass just for the tower for €5.

Explore the Praça da Liberdade and Church of Saint Ildefonso.

the praca da liberdade area with the town hall of porto in the background

After you clamber down from the dizzying heights of the Clerigos Tower, walk to the Church of Saint Ildefonso, passing through Praça da Liberdade along the way.

This is one of Porto’s most famous squares, surrounded by several important buildings, like Banco de Portugal, along with many restaurants and high-end hotels.

At the center of the square, you can see the statue of D. Pedro IV, king of Portugal (although just for a brief time), who was also first ruler of the Empire of Brazil.

To the north end of the square, you can see Porto’s city hall and in front of it, the scenic Fonte dos Aliados.

the azulejo-covered church of ildefonso in porto with white and blue tiles and stairs leading up to the church

As you take it all in, keep walking east for a few more minutes along Rua de 31 de Janeiro, and you’ll reach the Church of Saint Ildefonso.

Like many other churches in Porto, this charming little church features a striking façade decorated with blue and white azulejos.

The Church of Saint Ildefonso dates to the early 18th century, but its façade was only decorated as recently as the 1930s.

A jaw-dropping quantity of roughly 11,000 azulejo tiles cover the façade, depicting scenes from the life of Saint Ildefonso, to whom the church is dedicated.

Admire the beautiful mosaics in São Bento Station.

Stick with me here. I know a train station may be a bit of an unusual landmark to go out of your way to see.

But I promise you that São Bento Station is something special – it’s truly one of the most beautiful public transportation stations in the world.

Step inside, and you’ll see why you can’t miss checking out this historical station while you’re spending a day in Porto.

The interior of the station is literally covered floor-to-ceiling in stunning azulejos, depicting key events in Porto’s history.

Among the many scenes depicted in the white and blue tiles, you can see the Battle of Valdevez and the Portuguese Conquest of Ceuta (yes, Portugal is really into their colonial history, but that’s a story for a different day…).

people walking in the train station in sao bento

Fittingly for a train station, above the more traditional historical scenes, the multicolored azulejos depict Portugal’s various forms of transportation over the centuries.

São Bento station was built between 1904 and 1916 on the site of the former Benedictine Convent of São Bento da Avé Maria.

The convent was in disrepair by the end of the 19th century, so it was demolished to make space for Porto’s brand-new central station. I think it’s quite the glow-up and I’m sure you’ll agree!

Admire the awe-inspiring Porto Cathedral.

the facade of the porto cathedral (se do porto) on a sunny day with two towers and a circular stained glass window

Just about ready for lunch? We’ve got one more stop first, and it’s a good one.

The last visit before lunch is to Porto’s Cathedral, known in Portuguese as the Sé do Porto.

The Sé do Porto is one of the city’s oldest monuments, dating all the way back to the early 12th century when ground was first broken on the site.

However, the completion of the church would be a lengthy affair, taking several centuries – it only finished in 1737. (And I think I’m a procrastinator.)

Unsurprisingly, given how long the construction dragged on for, the cathedral features several architectural styles.

These styles span a handful of centuries, the most prominent ones being Romanesque and Gothic.

But that’s not all. Some striking Baroque elements were added during the last stages of construction in the 17th century.

Those elements include the silver altarpiece and the apse that replaced the prior Romanesque one that was looking a bit worse-for-wear.

the beautiful azulejo cloisters of the cathedral in porto

You can enter the cathedral free of charge, but there is a small fee to visit the beautiful Gothic cloisters, and trust me when I tell you it’s worth it for the azulejos alone!

For just €3, you can step inside the cloisters to admire the stunning azulejos decorating the walls of the cloisters depicting famous religious scenes.

As a bonus, despite this being one of Porto’s main sites, many people don’t know it’s worth paying the extra few euros for the cloisters, so these azulejos are among the least-crowded in Porto.

Take a lunch break.

portuguese codfish with chickpeas, egg, potatoes

By now I’m sure you’ll have worked up quite an appetite, so it’s a good thing that you’ll find many restaurants within a short walk from the cathedral.

If you want to try the most traditional dish in Porto, have the Francesinha, but be warned, it’s not for the faint of heart!

The Francesinha is a truly massive sandwich filled with various meats, from ham to fresh sausage, steak, and a Portuguese sausage known as linguiça.

To add heart attack upon heart disease, all this is then covered in cheese, topped with a fried egg, and soaked in a traditional Francesinha sauce made with tomato and beer.

If that got your mouth watering, go ahead and try the Francesinha at Porto Escondido or Restaurante Fininho.

If you’re a vegetarian but you want to sample the Francesinha, my vegetarian friend living in Porto swears by the Lado B Café (and we liked the meat ones there as well!)

However, if Francesinha sounds too intimidating for you (I get it – for me, once was enough!) you can find many great alternatives at these restaurants or others nearby.

Other good options in the area are Em Canto and Impar Flores.

Wander through the lively Cais da Ribeira area.

one of the buildings in the praca da ribeira area with a government building next to some grass in a park

After lunch, make your way down to the riverbank in the area of Cais da Ribeira and just stroll around for a while to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Cais da Ribeira is always buzzing with life, from locals to tourists and street artists performing for passersby.

As you pass through Praça da Ribeira and along the river, be sure to admire the stunning view of the massive Dom Luís I Bridge, one of Porto’s prettiest landmarks.

Looking across the river to the opposite bank, you’ll see Vila Nova de Gaia with its port wine cellars.

Along the river, check out the traditional Ravelo boats which were historically used to transport barrels of port wine along the Douro River.

Nowadays, they’re a tourist attraction in and of themselves, and you can even go for a spin on the water in one of these boats!

Cross the beautiful Dom Luís I Bridge.

one side of the porto don luis bridge which was built by the same architect as the eiffel tower

From Cais da Ribeira, you can either cross the bridge on the lower level or make your way up to the upper level.

Both options are good, but the view is more impressive from above, and it’ll take you straight to the next stop.

If you’re dying for the full experience of seeing the lower level, don’t worry! You can cross the lower level on your way back.

Dom Luís I Bridge was designed by a disciple of the renowned architect Gustave Eiffel, Théophile Seyrig.

Seyrid had already worked with Eiffel on another bridge between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, Maria Pia Bridge.

With this history in mind, it’s not surprising that the two bridges have a similar design, and you can even see a striking resemblance between Dom Luís I Bridge and the Eiffel Tower – just think horizontal, not vertical.

A light rail connects the two cities on the upper deck, while the lower deck is dedicated to general traffic.

Pedestrian walkways are available on both levels, so you can enjoy different viewpoints while crossing the bridge on its two levels.

Explore Porto’s “sister city” of Vila Nova de Gaia.

cable cars overhead in vila nova de gaia

As soon as you cross Ponte Dom Luis, you’ll be in Vila Nova de Gaia.

Although technically, you’ve left the city of Porto proper, it is part of the greater Porto Metropolitan Area, and I couldn’t resist including it on this guide.

Gaia is a must-see, especially for the views you get of Porto from some of the city’s main points of interest.

Besides, the city is Portugal’s wine hub, which means here’s where you’ll find most port wine cellars (and caves), which are among the most popular tourist attractions for anyone visiting Porto.

Visit the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar.

a round church surrounded by trees in porto's monastery on vila nova de gaia side of the douro river

Just after crossing the bridge, you can take a left turn and climb to Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar for one of the best panoramic views of Porto.

The monastery features a huge terrace overlooking the Douro River, Ponte Dom Luis, and Porto.

A part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Centre of Porto, Luiz I Bridge, and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, the 16th century monastery’s most notable feature is the circular church.

The monastery is typically open to the public but as of 2023, it’s closed due to renovations.

However, it’s still worth a visit even during its closure period, as you can still walk to the terrace and check out the spectacular view.

Take in the views from Jardim do Morro.

mosteiro (monastery) in porto on the other side of the douro river from porto

Just across the street from Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, Jardim do Morro is a cute little park overlooking the river.

It offers yet another great vantage point to enjoy the view of the candy-colored stacked houses of Porto’s historical center.

The park is perfect for a relaxing break after crossing the bridge, and is often filled with people checking out the view and listening to the occasional street artist playing music.

The atmosphere is always lively, and the place turns outright magical at sunset when the warm colors wash over the city.

A cable car connects the garden to the lower side of Gaia, offering sweeping views of Porto and the river.

The ride is very short, and a one-way ticket costs 7€ (€10 for a return ticket) – pricey for Portugal, so it’s perhaps not for the budget-conscious.

Luckily, you can also walk down in less than 10 minutes.

Enjoy a port wine tasting.

one of the port houses in the downtown area of vila nova de gaia, the famous sandeman cellar

I promised you wine tastings at the start of this guide, and here we are at last!

In the lower part of Vila Nova de Gaia, all along the riverbank, you’ll find several port wine cellars offering tours and wine tasting.

You don’t have to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy a port wine tour, as they’re a fascinating experience where you’ll learn about the history of Porto’s famous wine.

The choice of cellars to visit is huge, so check out the various options. Just a heads up, you’ll definitely want to book in advance to make sure you get the tour that you most want!

After trying several of these tours over my time in Portugal, I’ve got to recommend the Cálem Tour.

You can just have a cellar tour with wine tasting or go for the full experience and add in a ticket to see a Fado show (a traditional Portuguese music — it’s hauntingly beautiful).

Other popular tours are Graham’s Port Lodge Tour where you get to pair port wines with chocolates and cheeses, Burmester Cellars (also with chocolate tastings for an additional price), or Cockburn’s Cellar (also with tasting option).

You can also skip the tour of the cellar house and wine taste a la carte along the many port houses, such as Quinta do Noval.

Have dinner in Gaia or Porto.

brazilian food in porto's vila nova de gaia area, served rodizio style

For dinner, you’ve got plenty of options. If you’re famished and can’t wait, you can stay in Vila Nova de Gaia for dinner before walking back to Porto.

If you’re not quite ready for dinner yet, walk back first and find something on the other side once you’ve worked up an appetite!.

If you’re staying in Gaia, try Barris Do Douro Restaurante or Bacalhoeiro.

I also love the Brazilian churrascaria experience in Restaurante Mineirão, where meat is served tableside rodízio-style.

There’s also the Mercado Beira-Rio which is great for small bites, perhaps if you want something small to eat before you have a larger meal in Porto proper.

Back in Porto, head to the charming Restaurante Cana Verde or try the tapas at Tapabento S. Bento.

For something more unusual, you can try Mozambican food at Tia Orlando.

mozambican curries, rice, and fish set out at a table for three in porto

It’s hard to find this just anywhere, but since Mozambique was a Portuguese colony, you’ll be able to find some unique flavors in Porto.

For something traditional in Porto, try the Bacalhau à moda do Porto, just one of literally hundreds (yes, hundreds) of recipes for salted codfish that Portugal is famous for.

This Porto-style codfish dish comes with potatoes, onion, garlic, and black olives.

Have drinks along Rua da Galeria de Paris.

glass of white wine out in the street in porto

We’re almost, but not quite, at the end of our fabulous one-day trip to Porto!

The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, so if that’s your thing, head on over to Rua da Galeria de Paris.

This popular street and the surrounding area are where you find most bars and clubs in the city.

Whether you want to have a drink or dance the night away, you’ll find a place here for every mood.

Looking for a pub? Head to Bonaparte Downtown.

In the mood for an expertly-crafted gin cocktail? As you might expect from its name, The Gin House has you covered.

To end your night in a truly unforgettable, one-of-a-kind spot, don’t skip Capela Incomum.

The name literally translates to Uncommon Chapel, and the club is located inside a renovated chapel!

Plus, it’s convenient: the club is not far from Rua da Galeria de Paris.