Bar hopping Tour & Poncha Workshop – Funchal

Travelers looking for a lively taste of Madeira’s local flavor will find this Bar Hopping Tour & Poncha Workshop in Funchal offers an engaging mix of drinks, culture, and insider stories. For just $91 per person, you get to explore six different stops packed with tastings—from artisanal beers and renowned Madeira wines to Ginja served in edible chocolate cups—and even learn how to craft the iconic Poncha. The tour lasts about three hours, making it perfect for an afternoon adventure that combines socializing with a genuine glimpse into Madeira’s drinking traditions.

One of the big highlights is definitely the chance to sample a diverse array of drinks in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, guided by knowledgeable locals. We love how this tour offers not just tastings but also an authentic look at Madeira’s vibrant drink culture. However, it’s worth noting that despite being called a “Poncha Workshop,” some travelers might expect a hands-on experience that involves making the drink themselves—which, based on reviews, isn’t quite the case. This could be a point of disappointment if you’re hoping for a true DIY class. Still, if you’re interested in experiencing Funchal’s nightlife with a friendly guide and discovering local drinks, this tour remains a solid choice.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy social outings, want to learn about Madeira’s beverage scene, and appreciate sampling local flavors in different atmospheres. It’s also a great way to meet fellow travelers, especially if you’re curious about the stories behind each drink.

Key Points

• Diverse tasting stops offer a wide variety of local drinks in one tour
• Insightful guides enhance the experience with stories and insider tips
• Authentic experiences like Ginja in edible chocolate cups add a fun twist
• Learn to make Poncha though not a full hands-on workshop but still educational
• Great value for the price considering the number of tastings and the guided aspect
• Ideal for social travelers who enjoy casual nightlife and cultural experiences

This three-hour journey through Funchal’s bars and wine cellars promises an engaging mix of tasting, learning, and discovering. Starting at Blandys Wine Lodges, you’ll first get to enjoy a tasting of a fine, locally produced still wine. This sets the tone, as Madeira’s wine is renowned for its longevity and complex flavors. From there, your guide will lead you through six carefully chosen stops that showcase Madeira’s drink culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The First Stop: A Historic Winery

The tour kicks off at Blandys Wine Lodges, a well-known Madeira winery. Here, you’ll sample one of their premium still wines, setting the stage for what’s to come. You’ll get a chance to appreciate the characteristics of Madeira wine—think nutty, caramel notes with a hint of acidity. This tasting often surprises first-time visitors, who might expect only sweet wine but find a complex array of flavors.

Artisanal Beers in a Cozy Local Bar

Next, you’ll move to a local bar where you can sample three artisanal beers. These are crafted with local ingredients, giving each brew its own distinct personality—ranging from hoppy to malty, with some featuring tropical fruit infusions. According to a reviewer, “The selection of beers was varied and exciting, each with its own charm.” This stop offers a more relaxed, traditional atmosphere, perfect for chatting and soaking up Funchal’s vibrant nightlife.

Ginja in Edible Chocolate Cups

One of the most memorable moments is tasting Ginja, a Portuguese cherry liqueur, served in an edible chocolate cup. It’s a playful and delicious way to enjoy a local specialty. The Ginja drink is sweet, with a tart cherry flavor that pairs surprisingly well with the chocolate. As one reviewer noted, “Ginjinha in the chocolate cup was a novel experience that added an extra layer of indulgence.”

Madeira Wine Tasting

No visit to Madeira would be complete without sampling its famous fortified wine. The tour includes a Madeira wine tasting, which showcases the versatility and complexity that have made it a global favorite. Whether you prefer the dry, medium, or sweet styles, you’ll get a sense of why Madeira wine is considered a treasure. The guide will share insights into its production, aging, and best pairings, enriching your appreciation.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Nikita Cocktail

Moving on to a fun, refreshing staple—the Nikita. This cocktail blends beer, ice cream, and tropical fruits for a creamy, sweet drink that’s very much a local favorite. The guide describes it as “a must-try when in Madeira,” and it definitely lives up to the hype. It’s perfect for cooling down and enjoying in a cozy bar with a lively vibe.

Poncha Workshop & Final Toast

The tour concludes with a Poncha workshop—though reviews clarify it’s more of a demonstration rather than a hands-on making session. You’ll learn about the traditional ingredients and the art of mixing Poncha, a potent drink made with aguardente, honey, and lemon juice. Afterward, you get to taste your creation and enjoy the traditional drink in a warm setting, making it a fitting end to a night of sampling.

The tour offers a nice balance of guided storytelling, tastings, and local ambiance. The guide’s knowledge adds depth, sharing stories behind each drink and the history of Madeira’s drink culture. The small group size (limited to 15 participants) ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd, allowing for genuine interaction and questions.

In terms of value, the tour’s price includes a variety of tastings and the Poncha workshop—something you’d pay significantly more for if you visited each bar independently. You’ll leave with a broader understanding of Madeira’s beverage traditions, having sampled a curated selection that showcases the best local flavors.

Practical Considerations

The meeting point at Blandys Wine Lodges is central, with the tour starting promptly at 4:30 p.m., so arriving 15 minutes early is recommended. The activity is suitable for adults over 18 and not pregnant women, given the alcohol focus. It’s a relaxed, cultural experience perfect for those who enjoy exploring nightlife without the hassle of planning individual stops.

While the tour lasts around three hours, it’s paced well enough to keep the experience fun without feeling rushed. Note that transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Feedback from recent participants highlights the knowledgeable guides and stunning variety of drinks. One reviewer appreciated Matt’s storytelling and tips, describing the experience as “varied and exciting.” Another emphasized the fun of trying Ginja in the chocolate cup, calling it a “playful and delicious” experience.

However, some reviews pointed out a small disconnect between the activity’s title and what’s actually offered. For example, Sabrina was expecting a Poncha-making workshop but found it was more of a tasting tour. She felt that the price wasn’t justified solely for the bar visits, but overall, most found the experience enjoyable and worth the price for the drinks knowledge and atmosphere.

This Bar Hopping & Poncha Workshop offers an engaging, flavorful look into Madeira’s drink scene, guided by friendly experts who share insights and stories. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience Funchal’s nightlife in a relaxed, social setting while learning about local spirits and wines. The mix of tastings, atmosphere, and cultural insights makes it a compelling choice for those keen on authentic experiences.

While the “workshop” aspect might be more observational than interactive, the overall value lies in the curated journey through Madeira’s iconic drinks. If you’re a lover of wine, spirits, and lively bars—and want to do so in good company—this tour will likely be a highlight of your Madeira trip.

Best for: Social travelers, curious drink enthusiasts, those seeking cultural insights through local beverages, and anyone wanting an easy, guided way to explore Funchal’s vibrant nightlife scene.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since it’s centered around tasting local drinks, it’s not ideal for non-drinkers. It’s designed for adults over 18 who want to enjoy Madeira’s beverage culture.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included. You’ll need to plan your own way to Blandys Wine Lodges at Avenida Arriaga 28.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 4:30 p.m., with check-in required 15 minutes earlier.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the Poncha workshop hands-on?
Reviews clarify it’s more of a demonstration and a tasting, not a full DIY workshop. You’ll learn about making Poncha, but won’t be actively creating it from scratch.

Is this activity suitable for children?
No, it’s for adults over 18 due to the alcohol tastings.

Are there any physical limitations to consider?
The tour is mainly standing and walking between stops; it’s suitable for most people but not recommended for those with mobility issues.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately three hours, providing a relaxed pace to enjoy each stop fully.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes guide services, tastings of artisanal beer, white Madeira wine, Ginja in chocolate cups, Madeira wine, the Nikita cocktail, and the Poncha demonstration.

If you’re eager to get a taste of Madeira’s spirited side, this tour offers a fun, authentic, and tasty way to do just that.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby