Explore Madeira on a Budget: A Complete 7-Day Itinerary

Madeira, known for its dramatic landscapes and rich culture, doesn't demand a hefty budget for a fulfilling experience. With some local insights, you can explore the island’s treasures without overspending. Here's a week-long itinerary that combines affordable attractions and dining options.

Upon arriving in Madeira, settle into budget accommodations like Residencial Funchal, where rooms start at €30 per night. Spend your first day exploring Funchal on foot. Visit the Farmer’s Market (Mercado dos Lavradores) to sample local fruits like passionfruit and custard apple. Entry is free, but snacks cost around €3.

Head to the Madeira Story Centre, an interactive museum, for a €5 entry fee. End your day with a stroll through Santa Catarina Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean at no cost.

Take a cable car ride to Monte for €11 one-way. Visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a must-see for garden lovers, for €12. Enjoy a picnic lunch with groceries from a local shop, costing no more than €5 per person. Don't miss the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte, offering serene surroundings and free entry.

Explore the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço for a day filled with hiking. The trails are free and offer breathtaking views of rugged cliffs and the ocean. Pack a lunch or try a local café in Machico, where meals are around €8. In the evening, dine at a tasca (local tavern) in Caniço, enjoying dishes like espada com banana (scabbard fish with banana) for under €10.

Spend your fourth day in the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The levada walks, like Levada das 25 Fontes, are free and offer a unique way to experience Madeira’s lush interior. Remember to bring a raincoat, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Visit Santana to see the traditional thatched houses. Entry to the open-air museum village is about €5. Enjoy a typical Madeiran lunch at a local restaurant, costing around €12. Explore the nearby Queimadas Forest Park, perfect for an afternoon walk.

Dedicate a day to relaxation at Praia Formosa, Madeira’s largest public beach. The beach is free, and you can rent a sunbed for €3. Visit the local market in Câmara de Lobos for authentic souvenirs and snacks, spending no more than €10.

Before leaving, take a morning to visit the CR7 Museum for €5, celebrating the island's famous footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo. Enjoy a last walk through Funchal’s streets and savor a final meal at a local eatery, spending around €15.

With this itinerary, you’ll experience Madeira’s diverse offerings on a budget. Prioritize experiences, embrace local culture, and make memories that will last well beyond your visit.