Funchal offers more than just stunning coastal views and vibrant markets; it also shines when it comes to lunchtime adventures. Whether you’re craving a hearty traditional meal, a scenic day exploring Madeira’s east coast, or a deep dive into local wines and vineyards, there’s something to satisfy every palate. We particularly like the Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch for its combination of stunning scenery, cultural insight, and a delicious 3-course meal. It’s a great way to see the island’s highlights while enjoying authentic Madeiran cuisine. For wine lovers, the Visiting Local Vineyard With Wine Tasting & Lunch offers a premium experience with tastings of local wines paired with a traditional meal, providing a gourmet touch to your day.
Funchal’s diverse landscape and rich local culture make it a perfect base for a variety of lunch excursions. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, historic villages, or wine tasting, you’ll find a tour that fits your style. Below, we’ve outlined five top options to help you choose the best lunch experience during your stay.
1. Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch
At number 1 on our list, the Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch is highly rated (4.5/5 from 172 reviews) and offers a well-rounded day exploring Madeira’s rugged east coast. This full-day small-group tour (max 8 people) combines breathtaking views with cultural sights and an authentic 3-course lunch. You’ll pass through traditional villages like Santana, with its iconic triangular thatched houses, and experience the Laurissilva forest and Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak.
What makes this tour special is the inclusion of a scenic walk along the levadas—small canals carved into the mountainside—giving you a taste of the island’s rural charm. After visiting a trout farm, you’ll enjoy a delicious 3-course lunch with wine at Grutas do Faial Island, making it a satisfying end to a day packed with beauty and local flavor. The tour’s reviews praise the organization and friendliness of guides, with one describing it as “a very well-organized trip” and “an excellent guide.” The cost (~$54) offers excellent value considering the extensive itinerary and authentic experiences.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and a hearty, traditional meal.
2. Visiting Local Vineyard With Wine Tasting & Lunch
At number 2, this luxury wine tour is a standout, especially for wine aficionados willing to spend around $208 per person. It’s the only experience on our list that combines a visit to multiple vineyards with a gourmet lunch, making it ideal for those seeking a refined taste of Madeira’s wine culture. The tour begins with a scenic drive to Camara de Lobos, then moves on to Faja dos Padres, where you’ll explore exotic fruit cultivation and learn about the local wine-making process.
The highlight is the guided tour of a top Madeira winery, with a professional enologist leading the tasting of three whites, one rosé, and two reds—paired with traditional tapas. The lunch, using local ingredients, is served at a well-known Madeira Wine Estate, with options for vegetarians. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guide and the exceptional wines and food, with comments like “fantastic view, great wine and delicious food.”
This tour offers prime value for serious wine lovers, combining education, tasting, and a sumptuous meal in a single day. It’s best suited for those with an interest in wine, good food, and a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: For wine enthusiasts who want a refined, all-inclusive experience, this tour delivers in both quality and authenticity.
3. Eastern Madeira Sustainable Tour in a 4×4 with Lunch
Ranked third, the Eastern Madeira Sustainable Tour in a 4×4 with Lunch offers an off-road adventure to the island’s less accessible corners. With a single review rating of 5.0, this half-day tour is perfect for travelers seeking more adventure and less crowding. It combines panoramic views from Largo do Miranda, off-road exploration of Poiso, and a visit to Pico de Areeiro, Madeira’s highest accessible point by car.
What sets this tour apart is the off-road exploration of Madeira’s interior, reaching places that are impossible by regular vehicle. After a scenic drive, you’ll enjoy a local lunch at a scenic spot, giving you the chance to relax and soak in the natural beauty. The tour concludes at Ponta de São Lourenço, where the rugged cliffs and ocean views create a stunning finale.
Ideal for outdoor lovers and those curious about Madeira’s untouched landscapes, this tour blends eco-sustainability with fun and discovery. The tour duration (around 4 hours) makes it perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire for authentic exploration.
Bottom line: Best suited for active, eco-conscious travelers looking for a half-day of off-road adventure combined with scenic lunch spots.
$114.70 per person
4. Funchal: Full-Day Fajãs Route Madeira Coastal Tour w/ Lunch
The Funchal: Full-Day Fajãs Route Madeira Coastal Tour w/ Lunch is a long, immersive experience, covering the island’s impressive southwest coast. It’s not just about sightseeing—this tour offers activities like snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking, making it a lively choice for water lovers. With a duration of around 9 hours, it’s a full-day adventure that combines scenic coastal views with active sea-based exploration.
The highlight is the visit to the fajãs, or volcanic terraces, with stunning sea cliffs and colorful volcanic landscapes. There’s one hour of free time at Pãul do Mar village to soak in the views or grab a snack. After the water activities, the tour proceeds along rugged coastlines, offering plenty of photo opportunities and scenic moments.
This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of land and sea adventures and want a comprehensive experience of Madeira’s coastline. The inclusion of sea activities adds a fun element, especially if you’re comfortable in the water.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers seeking a full-day mix of coastal scenery and water-based fun with a satisfying lunch break.
5. São Vicente Vineyard Visit With Traditional Lunch
Finally, our fifth pick is the São Vicente Vineyard Visit With Traditional Lunch. This 4.5-hour tour focuses on the north side of the island, known for its lush landscapes and terraced vineyards. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed but authentic experience of Madeira’s wine and culinary traditions.
The tour includes a guided visit to a prominent vineyard, where you’ll learn about local wine-making methods and taste a variety of Madeira wines. The highlight is the traditional “Espetada” lunch—skewered grilled meat—paired with local wines, offering a genuine taste of Madeira’s culinary culture. The setting’s natural surroundings, with high mountain views, enhance the sense of connection to the land.
With a 4.7/5 review rating, many visitors praise the friendly guides and the scenic vineyard experience. It’s particularly suited for those interested in local wine production and a relaxed, cultural lunch.
Bottom line: For a laid-back but informative day with excellent wine and food, this tour hits the mark.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Funchal
When deciding, consider your budget, interests, and the type of experience you’re after. If you want a full day of scenic exploration combined with a hearty local meal, the Madeira East Island Tour is unbeatable. For a gourmet outing, the Wine Tasting & Vineyard Tour offers refined tastings and a memorable meal. If you prefer adventure and off-road discovery, the 4×4 Sustainable Tour provides a unique look into Madeira’s wild interior. Water lovers should consider the Fajãs Coastal Tour for active sea activities paired with a delicious lunch. Finally, those interested in traditional wine and culinary culture will enjoy the São Vicente Vineyard experience.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours with limited spaces. Think about your interests—whether it’s scenery, wine, adventure, or local culture—and pick the experience that best matches your travel style. Each tour offers a different slice of Madeira, ensuring a memorable lunch experience no matter which you choose.
Funchal’s lunch adventures are as diverse as the island itself—from scenic drives to vineyard tastings and sea kayaking. Whether you’re after a full-day exploration or a half-day wine tasting, there’s something to make your meal memorable. We recommend matching your choice to your interests—active travelers might prefer the off-road or sea excursions, while those seeking relaxation will love the vineyard or cultural tours. Whatever your preference, booking ahead guarantees you a spot at these top-rated experiences—so don’t delay.