Family-Friendly Madeira Itinerary: A Week of Adventures with Kids

Kick off your Madeira adventure in Funchal, the island's lively capital. Start the day with a visit to the Mercado dos Lavradores, where kids will love the colorful displays of tropical fruits and flowers. Sample fresh passion fruit or Madeira bananas, and don't miss the fish market for an educational experience.

Afterward, take the cable car from Almirante Reis to Monte. The ride offers spectacular views of Funchal and the surrounding hills. Once in Monte, visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, where kids can explore the exotic plants and koi ponds. Entry is around €12 for adults, and kids under 15 enter free.

End the day with a toboggan ride down the winding streets of Monte. It's a thrilling experience that costs about €25 for two people and is sure to be a hit with the kids.

Spend your second day at Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro, a stunning estate known for its gardens. The kids will enjoy spotting different species of birds and butterflies. Entry is €10 for adults, and children under 12 go free.

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch amid the lush surroundings. There's a small café on-site if you prefer to purchase snacks. The gardens are expansive, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring.

In the afternoon, drive to the nearby Madeira Aquarium in Porto Moniz, about a 45-minute drive from Funchal. The aquarium showcases local marine life, and children will love the interactive exhibits. Family tickets are available for around €25.

Head to Santana for a day at the Madeira Theme Park. It's an educational and fun spot where kids can learn about Madeira's history and culture through interactive exhibits and rides. Entry costs about €10 for adults and €5 for children.

The park features a replica of traditional Santana houses, and there's a playground for younger children. Be sure to take the boat ride that offers a unique view of the park and its surroundings.

Grab lunch at the park's restaurant, which serves local dishes like espetada and bolo do caco. The kids' menu offers smaller portions and kid-friendly options.

Take a ferry to Porto Santo, Madeira's sister island, known for its golden beaches. The ferry ride takes about two hours and costs approximately €60 for a family of four. Spend the day building sandcastles and swimming in the warm waters.

Renting a bike is a great way to explore the island. Bike rentals are available near the ferry port and cost around €15 per day. The flat terrain makes it easy for children to ride along.

Before heading back to Madeira, enjoy a sunset dinner at a beachside restaurant. Fresh seafood is a highlight here, and many places offer kids' menus.

Ribeiro Frio is famous for its levada walks, which are perfect for families. These gentle hikes follow old irrigation channels and offer stunning views of the Laurisilva forest. The Balcões hike is a popular choice, taking about 45 minutes round trip.

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the end of the hike. You'll find picnic tables at the Balcões viewpoint, where you can relax and take in the scenery. Keep an eye out for the native Madeira chaffinch.

On your way back, stop at the trout farm in Ribeiro Frio. It's a short visit, but kids will love seeing the trout up close and learning about their life cycle.

Set sail from Funchal’s marina on a whale and dolphin watching tour. These excursions last about three hours and cost around €50 per adult and €25 for children. The sight of dolphins playing in the waves is unforgettable.

Operators often have marine biologists on board who share insights about the local marine life. Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be strong out at sea.

After the tour, visit the nearby Madeira Story Centre in the old town of Funchal. It's an interactive museum that kids will find fascinating, with exhibits detailing the island’s rich history.

Wrap up your trip with a relaxing day in Câmara de Lobos, a charming fishing village. Stroll along the harbor and watch the local fishermen at work. Stop for a refreshing poncha, a traditional Madeiran drink made with rum, honey, and lemon juice.

For families, there's a non-alcoholic version available. Pair it with some local snacks like lapas or bolo do caco. Prices are reasonable, with most snacks costing under €5.

End your week with a scenic drive up to Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The glass-floored skywalk offers breathtaking views of the coastline.