From Funchal: North Coast Day Trip

Experience the North Coast of Madeira: A Detailed Review of the Funchal Day Trip

Exploring Madeira’s north coast with a guided day trip offers a fantastic chance to see the island’s most dramatic landscapes from a comfortable vantage point. This tour, offered by Lido Tours and rated 4.8 out of 5 from 38 reviews, promises a full day of scenic drives, charming villages, and awe-inspiring ocean views—all for around $41 per person.

What makes this tour stand out is the expert guidance and the way it showcases Madeira’s natural beauty beyond the usual tourist spots. We particularly like how the route takes you through narrow, less-traveled roads, offering better vistas and a more authentic experience.

One thing to consider is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for that during your day out. The tour’s 8-hour duration makes it a perfect choice for those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable exploration of the island’s northern treasures.

This trip is ideal for travelers who love scenic drives, want to learn about the island from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy discovering local villages and natural wonders at a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Expect incredible valley views, mountain vistas, and wild coastlines.
• Authentic encounters: Stops at charming villages like Cabanas de São Jorge and Ponta Delgada give a real taste of local life.
• Expert guides: Guides like Luciano and others offer engaging stories and fun facts that enrich your experience.
• Flexible bookings: Free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand and the option to reserve now and pay later add peace of mind.
• Comfortable journey: The tour uses mini-buses that navigate small roads, providing a more intimate and scenic route.
• Value for money: At just $41, the tour delivers a full day of sightseeing, with included hotel pickup in Funchal.

A Deep Dive into the North Coast Experience

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour kicks off in Funchal, with hotel pickups available in select locations, which simplifies logistics. From the start, you’ll be in a small group or private vehicle, allowing for a more personalized experience. The guide’s role is central—not only as a driver but as a storyteller, sharing anecdotes, local insights, and fun facts that make each stop more meaningful.

The Scenic Drive and Stopovers

The journey north takes you along Madeira’s eastern coast, where the views of the ocean and rugged cliffs are breathtaking. The route is designed to go beyond the typical highways, taking smaller, scenic roads that reveal hidden perspectives of the island.

One of the first notable stops is Porto da Cruz, a small fishing village with a laid-back vibe. Here, you’ll get a taste of local life and see the fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. Moving on, the drive through Faial presents sweeping valley views and lush landscapes.

The highlight for many is the visit to Cabanas de São Jorge, a village that offers stunning vistas of the sea and surrounding mountains. Reviewer Szonja specifically mentions that the guide took smaller roads, some not even on the map, to maximize scenic views—something true travelers will appreciate. She also notes the vineyards in this area, which show off some of Madeira’s most spectacular scenery.

Ponta Delgada and Lunch

Next, you’ll arrive in Ponta Delgada, a picturesque village perfect for a relaxed lunch break. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, the recommended spots offer local cuisine that pairs well with the scenery. Whether you prefer traditional Portuguese dishes or something lighter, you’ll find options at local restaurants.

Exploring São Vicente and Beyond

Further west, the tour stops at São Vicente, nestled in a beautiful valley. This area is known for its natural beauty and distinctive volcanic landscapes, providing excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Madeira’s geological history.

On the return route, you’ll pass through Ribeira Brava, a charming town with a scenic waterfront. As the tour winds back toward Funchal, you’ll traverse valleys and ravines carved over millions of years—each turn revealing new landscapes and photo-worthy vistas. Your guide’s commentary enhances the experience, bringing the scenery to life with stories and facts.

Authenticity and Comfort

Throughout the day, the small-group format and guided commentary make the experience feel intimate and informative. Reviewers like Jamie describe it as a “comfortable and beautiful trip,” while Luciano’s guests praise how he expertly took them to “some beautiful places” and provided plenty of information.

The tour’s price point, considering the transportation, guide expertise, and hotel pickup, makes it a good value. It’s a comprehensive way to see parts of Madeira that are hard to reach on your own, especially if you don’t want to drive or plan multiple excursions.

Why This Tour Works

The key to its success is the combination of spectacular scenery, knowledgeable guides, and a flexible, comfortable format. The stops are well-chosen, showcasing both natural beauty and local culture. The optional small roads taken by guides like Luciano and the anecdotes they share elevate the experience from just a sightseeing drive to a memorable story-filled adventure.

The fact that reviews point out the guides’ expertise and friendliness speaks volumes. Szonja highlights the guide’s knowledge, fun facts, and the fact that he took roads not on the map, giving better views. Penelope mentions Luciano’s excellent storytelling and the memorable places she visited.

However, it’s worth noting that since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to budget extra time or money for a meal. The possibility of variable weather also means packing layers—reviewers advise bringing more clothes to stay comfortable as conditions change unexpectedly.

Practicalities and Tips for Travelers

The 8-hour duration makes this a full but not exhausting day. Starting times vary, so check availability for your preferred day. Given the changing weather and the outdoor nature of stops, packing a light jacket and comfortable shoes is recommended.

The small group size means you’ll have ample opportunity to ask questions and get personalized insights. If you’re staying in Funchal and want to explore beyond the city, this tour offers a well-rounded look at Madeira’s northern landscapes without the stress of planning routes yourself.

Booking flexibility, with free cancellation and the option to reserve without immediate payment, makes it easy to adapt your plans if needed.

Who This Tour is Best For

This experience suits travelers who love scenic drives and natural landscapes, appreciating the details that make Madeira unique. It’s perfect for those who want a guided experience with a knowledgeable host but prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation or navigation.

It’s also a good fit for travelers with a day to spare, looking to cover a lot of ground in a relaxed setting, with opportunities for great photos and local insights. Couples, small groups, or solo travelers who value comfort and storytelling will find this tour especially rewarding.

Those with mobility issues or tight schedules might want to consider other options, as the tour involves several stops and some uneven terrain in villages.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This North Coast Day Trip from Funchal offers excellent value. At just $41, you get a full day of exploration, guided by experts who make the scenery come alive with their stories and local knowledge. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase Madeira’s most beautiful aspects—spectacular valleys, charming villages, and awe-inspiring coastlines.

We love the way this trip balances comfort with authenticity, allowing you to see Madeira’s rugged beauty without the stress of planning every detail. It’s ideal for travelers who want a rundown of the north coast, especially if you appreciate insights from guides who know the island well.

While lunch isn’t included, the overall experience, informed guidance, and breathtaking scenery make this a worthwhile addition to any Madeira itinerary—especially if you’re keen on capturing memorable views and discovering local culture along the way.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from select hotels in Funchal and the surrounding area is available at no extra cost.

What languages are available on the tour?
Guides can speak Spanish, English, French, German, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours. Be sure to check the specific starting times when you book.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I reserve my spot now and pay later?
Absolutely. You can book now and pay nothing today, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll want to plan for a meal during the day, with options available at local villages.

What kind of vehicle is used?
Small buses or minibuses are used, which navigate smaller roads for better scenic access.

Would this tour suit families or groups?
Yes, small groups and families will enjoy the relaxed pace and engaging guides, though very young children might need additional consideration for the walking and stops.

In summary, this tour offers an affordable, scenic, and insightful way to experience Madeira’s stunning north coast. Perfect for those who love natural beauty, local culture, and engaging guides, it’s an experience that will leave you with lasting memories of the island’s wild, breathtaking landscapes.