Madeira & Lisbon 5-Star Getaway

Suggestion For The Day:

• Discover Eastern Madeira with its charming villages, dramatic landscapes, and rich history. Explore traditional thatched houses, volcanic peaks, and a peninsula with lunar-like beauty.

Don’t Miss:

• Santana: Famous for its triangular thatched-roof houses (“palheiros”), a symbol of Madeira’s traditional architecture. Stroll the village and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
• Machico: Madeira’s first capital, with a historic center, the Captain's House Museum, and golden sands at Machico Bay.
• Pico do Arieiro: Ascend to Madeira’s third-highest peak for breathtaking panoramic views, including Curral das Freiras Valley.
• Ponta de São Lourenço: Explore this eastern peninsula with its unique volcanic landscapes, hiking trails, and dramatic ocean views.

Suggestion For The Day: 

Madeira, the “hiker’s paradise,” offers trails for all levels. Wander along scenic levadas or mountain paths - the south features easier walks, while the north has challenging treks with waterfalls and dramatic landscapes.

Recommended Hikes:

• Levada do Balcões: Moderate trail through UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest.
  Distance: 7 km (4.3 mi) | Duration: 4–5 hours

• Levada das 25 Fontes: Moderate walk to waterfalls and lush greenery.
  Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi) | Duration: 3–4 hours

• Vereda do Fanal: Magical trail through an ancient Laurissilva forest.
  Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi) | Duration: 3–4 hours

• Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8): Coastal hike with stunning ocean views.
  Distance: 6.3 km (4 mi) | Duration: 3–4 hours

Suggestion For The Day:

• Set out on a Whale & Dolphin Watching Excursion and discover Madeira from a whole new perspective! The island sits above deep ocean trenches, creating a marine haven home to over 28 species.
• Spot magnificent giants like Sperm Whales, Humpbacks, and Fins, or watch playful Bottlenose and Spotted Dolphins. Keep an eye out for the rare Monk Seal, Manta Rays, Sea Turtles, and a variety of unique seabirds. A truly unforgettable experience for nature and wildlife lovers!

Suggestion For The Day: 

• Madeira Botanical Garden: Begin your day at the Madeira Botanical Garden, perched on the hills above Funchal. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean while exploring the island’s botanical diversity and conservation efforts.
• Monte Palace Tropical Garden: Next, visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, famous for its fusion of Oriental design. Admire decorative tile panels depicting Chinese mythology and Portuguese maritime history, offering a glimpse into Madeira’s rich cultural connections.
• Carrinhos do Monte (Monte Toboggan): End your day with a thrilling ride on the iconic wicker toboggans! Dating back to the 19th century, skilled “carreiros” dressed in white guide the sleds down Monte Village streets to Funchal. This unique blend of adrenaline, culture, and heritage is perfect for families and adventure lovers alike - an unforgettable Madeiran experience!

Welcome to Lisbon! Enjoy hassle-free airport transfers upon your arrival and departure, and for a seamless start to your journey, we recommend booking an early hotel check-in.

Suggestion For The Day:

• After check-in, explore the historical center of Lisbon. Start in Chiado, a charming district with elegant shops and cafes. Move to Baixa, the bustling downtown area with Praça do Comércio, a grand waterfront square. Climb the Arco da Rua Augusta for city views.
  • Terreiro do Paço: Soak in the lively atmosphere of this vast waterfront square.
  • Santa Justa Lift: Enjoy a unique perspective from this neo-Gothic elevator.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Take the morning to explore some attractions you've always wanted and enjoy the city at your own pace. Wander through scenic neighborhoods like Alfama, explore unique spots like the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, or relax in Jardim da Estrela. You can also visit a museum like the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga or simply enjoy a leisurely walk by the Tagus River.
• In the afternoon, try some of Lisbon’s most traditional flavors – start at Mercado da Ribeira with a coffee and the iconic pastel de nata. Then, enjoy a scenic boat ride to the south bank of the river for a delicious seafood soup and a savory patty. Back in the city, stop by Baixa Pombalina for a shot of Ginja, Lisbon’s famous sour cherry liqueur. Continue with a flavorful Bifana sandwich and a cold beer, and wrap up your culinary journey with a wine tasting, paired with local bread, cheese, and jams.

Suggestion For The Day:

• On your last day, take the chance to dive deeper into Portugal’s rich heritage. In the morning, head west to Queluz and Mafra - explore the grand Queluz National Palace and its elegant gardens, then continue to the majestic Mafra Palace, with its monumental library and baroque architecture.
• For lunch, stop in Ericeira, a charming seaside town known for its surf culture and fresh seafood, paired with local wines.
• In the afternoon, follow the coastline south to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and take in the dramatic ocean views.
• If time allows, make a final stop in Cascais or Estoril for a relaxed seaside stroll before heading back to Lisbon to enjoy your final evening in the city.