Madeira Island is a paradise of dramatic landscapes, charming villages, and incredible experiences waiting to be discovered. If you’ve only got 48 hours, don’t worry!
With a car from Move Car Rental, you can make the most of your time and create memories that last a lifetime. Here’s how to spend two unforgettable days exploring Madeira at your own pace.
Day 1: From Sunrise to Sunset
Get ready, your adventure begins really early.
6:30 AM: Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro
Start your day with an exhilarating drive to Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak, standing over 1,800 meters above sea level. Watching the sun rise above a sea of clouds is one of Madeira’s most magical experiences. With the freedom of your rental car, you can arrive before the tour groups and savour this moment in peace.
9:00 AM: Breakfast Stop in Santana
After the sunrise, head down to Santana, a picturesque village known for its traditional triangular thatched houses, or “palheiros.” Stop for a hearty breakfast at a local café, where you can try bolo do caco, a traditional garlic bread, paired with freshly brewed coffee.
11:00 AM: Explore the North Coast and Porto da Cruz
From Santana, take a scenic drive along the northern coastline to the charming village of Porto da Cruz. This coastal gem is home to breathtaking ocean views and the Engenhos do Norte Rum Distillery, where you can learn about Madeira’s long tradition of rum-making. Be sure to sample the local rum—it’s a taste of Madeira in a glass!
1:00 PM: Lunch with a View in São Jorge
Just a short drive away is São Jorge, a quiet village perched on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a family-run restaurant, sampling regional dishes like fresh seafood or espetada, Madeira’s famous skewered meat.
3:00 PM: Ponta de São Lourenço Nature Reserve
In the afternoon, drive to the island’s easternmost tip to explore the Ponta de São Lourenço. The landscape here is unlike anywhere else in Madeira, with rugged cliffs, sweeping plains, and panoramic ocean views. A short hike here rewards you with stunning photo opportunities.
6:00 PM: Sunset at Caniçal
End your first day with a spectacular sunset at Caniçal, a quiet fishing village nearby. The tranquil harbour, combined with the golden hues of the setting sun, is the perfect way to wind down. Grab a casual dinner at a seafood restaurant before returning to your accommodation for a good night’s sleep.
Day 2: Mountains, Waterfalls, and Funchal’s Charm
Day two is all about discovering Madeira’s lush greenery and vibrant capital city.
8:00 AM: Levada Walk to 25 Fontes
Start the day with a short drive to Rabaçal, where you can embark on a Levada walk to the famous 25 Fontes waterfall. These levadas, or irrigation channels, wind through lush forests and open up to breathtaking vistas. The hike is moderate and manageable even for beginners, offering a great way to immerse yourself in Madeira’s natural beauty.
11:00 AM: Câmara de Lobos – Fishing Village with Character
After your hike, drive to Câmara de Lobos, a vibrant fishing village loved by Winston Churchill. The colourful boats dotting the harbour and the village’s lively atmosphere make it an ideal spot to relax. Sip on a glass of poncha, a traditional Madeira drink made with sugarcane rum, honey, and lemon juice.
1:00 PM: Cabo Girão Skywalk
Just a short drive from Câmara de Lobos is Cabo Girão, one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. The glass-floored skywalk here is not for the faint-hearted, but the views of the ocean and Funchal below are well worth the thrill.
2:30 PM: Afternoon in Funchal
Head into Funchal, Madeira’s bustling capital. Stroll through the Mercado dos Lavradores, a vibrant market filled with exotic fruits, fresh flowers, and local crafts. Don’t miss the chance to sample Madeira wine at the Madeira Wine Lodge, where you can learn about the island’s winemaking traditions.
5:00 PM: Monte Cable Car and Toboggan Ride
For a bit of adventure, take the cable car up to Monte and enjoy stunning views of the city and coastline. Once at the top, experience the unique toboggan ride, where you’ll be whisked downhill in a wicker sledge guided by locals.
7:00 PM: Dinner with a View
End your whirlwind tour of Madeira with a memorable dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Funchal. Savour local dishes like Espada com banana (scabbard fish with banana) while watching the city lights twinkle below.
Why Rent a Car from Move?
This itinerary wouldn’t be possible without the freedom and convenience of having your car. Move Car Rental makes it easy to explore Madeira at your own pace, offering:
- Affordable Rates: Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Modern Fleet: Reliable, comfortable vehicles for navigating Madeira’s winding roads.
- Flexible Booking: Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations across the island.
48 hours may not seem like enough time to experience Madeira, but with a well-planned itinerary and a rental car from Move, you can see the island’s highlights and create unforgettable memories.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your car with Move today and start your Madeira adventure!
