Madeira island tours: the northwest and east
For those who want to see a lot without walking much: two days on the road, one for each side of the island.
In short. You can see the island well in two days by car: one in the northwest, with Fanal, the Porto Moniz natural pools and Seixal; the other in the east, with Machico, the Santana houses and the Pico do Areeiro viewpoint. This autumn two mountain roads are closed, the ER105 and the Velho Gingão road: it pays to plan your route.
Both days involve little walking and plenty of time on the road: distances are short, but mountain roads take time.
Before you set off, check the Regional Roads Directorate’s list of closed or restricted roads, published by Visit Madeira.
Island tours · 2 tours
Fanal, Porto Moniz and Seixal
The northwest in a day, by car or jeep
Pools €3
Machico, Santana and Pico do Arieiro
The east in a day, with Santana’s thatched houses
Parking €4/hr
A tailor-made tour
Tell us what you’d like to see, when, and how many of you there are
No-obligation proposal
Side by side
| Tour | Duration | Route | Level | Official cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fanal, Porto Moniz and Seixal | Full day | Little walking | 1 of 5, easy | Pools €3 |
| Machico, Santana and Pico do Arieiro | Full day | Short stops | 1 of 5, easy | Parking €4/hr |
Tips before you set off
- Take swimwear for the pools at Porto Moniz and Seixal.
- Take warm layers for Fanal and Pico do Areeiro.
- Away from roads open to traffic, driving a jeep in forest areas needs IFCN authorisation.
- At Pico do Areeiro you pay for parking: €4 an hour, with the first 30 minutes free.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need to tour the island?
Two days by car are enough for the essentials: one in the northwest and one in the east. For walks, add more days.
Do you need a jeep?
Not on open roads. Away from roads open to traffic, driving in forest areas needs IFCN authorisation.
Other types of tour
Levadas
Water channels with a path alongside, through the forest. Three to choose from, from a family stroll to a full day out.
3 tours
Peaks and trails
The mountains at the heart of the island and the eastern peninsula: two very different trails, the same 2026 rules.
2 tours
In Funchal
The city and Monte in a day or two: the market, the painted doors, Madeira wine, the cable car and the toboggans.
2 tours
Sea and adventure
At sea, dolphins and whales all year round; in the mountain streams, canyoning for beginners. Always with licensed operators.
2 tours
Can’t find your tour? We’ll tailor one for you.
Tell us what you’d like to see, when, and how many of you there are. We’ll reply with a proposal, with no obligation.