
Transatlantic Miami to Med
14 Nights
Virgin Voyages' guide to Funchal
The continental shift to the archipelago drift
With the continent of Africa just over 430 miles east, the tiny archipelago of Madeira may seem like a cluster of deserted volcanic islands lost in the Atlantic — but that’s just the beginning of its enticing mystique. Perfect year-round conditions make for unparalleled beachside revelry, unassumingly stylish hangouts, and galavanting through vineyards to consume the local (viti)culture.
The to-dos and the must-dos
Whales-n-tales in the waters of Madeira
Hop on a Zodiac boat for a thrilling adventure to an area known for its 20 species of cetaceans — whales, dolphins, porpoises. While David Attenborough was unavailable, a marine biologist is there to keenly narrate and answer questions about mammals who call this stretch of water home. Keep your eyes peeled for the wild Pilot, Beaked, and Orca whales, and Bottlenose, Atlantic Spotted, and common dolphins who like to show off their acrobatic moves to spectators.
Echoes of Funchal’s Belle Epoch
Meet your university guide at Naturalmente Português - History Tellers in La Vie Shopping Centre to begin your walkabout. Dive deep into the island’s fascinating past to learn how the Golden Age of Sugar (first planted in the 15th century) shaped the places you’ll be visiting, including the Municipal Theater, and the Campo Almirante Reis.
Funchal’s Farm to Fortress Food & Wine Walkabout
Starting with a walking tour through Funchal’s picturesque streets, you’ll get acquainted with Madeiran culture from a handful of churches, the lively Farmer’s Market, and the charming Zona Velha (Old Town). Afterward, you’ll be driven to the stunning Nini Design Center, where an on-site guide will take you on a journey through wine production and pairing. You’ll then test your wisdom by sampling regional delicacies and pairing them with local red and white wines.
Sustainable Tours
This tour operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria.
Hop on a cable car and incline over an enchanting landscape to uncover the wonders of Monte. Stroll through the mountainous village known for its fine properties, botanical gardens, and spectacular views. After taking in the sights, indulge in some tea, sandwiches, sweets, and chantilly in a local cafe. Head down to Livramento on a spirited toboggan ride before finishing your day at the local cinema to view a spectacular featurette taking you on a 600-year journey through history.
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Sustainable Tours
This tour operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria.
Travel through history with university volunteers who know the ins and outs of Madeira’s legendary past. Starting at the city’s walls where the French army attacked Funchal in 1566, you’ll see stunning Madeiran manors and the Quinta das Cruzes viewpoint where Madeira’s founder, João Gonçalves Zarco, once lived. Then, you’ll learn about the Santa Clara Monastery (whose nuns used to be a tourist attraction some 200 years ago) and discover the lesser-known hangouts foreign princes would frequent.
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Sustainable Tours
This tour operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria.
Hikers and eco-enthusiasts unite for an afternoon in the mountains. Head towards the center of the island, then on foot, explore tunnels, slopes, and steep ascents and descents of the island’s stunning landscape crossing between the two highest peaks, Pico do Arieiro (1,817m) and Pico Ruivo (1,862m). On your hike, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including the central core of the mountains, unique plants, and a myriad of vibrant flowers in their natural habitat.
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Sustainable Tours
This tour operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria.
Your day begins en route to the village of Cabo Girão. Here you will step onto a dramatic skywalk to experience the panoramic splendor of the world below as seen from above. Continue on to a quaint fishing village, Câmara de Lobos, whose landscape was famously painted by Winston Churchill in 1949. Lunch is included at the opulent hotel, Reid’s Palace, where bold flavors and an imaginative presentation are just as elevated as the surrounding views (and result in some enviable pics).
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A Madeiran expat changed the name braguinha to ukalales — or bouncy fleas.
Set Sail the Virgin Way
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