Madeira is a chef’s delight when it comes to lunch experiences. The island’s rich wine culture, fresh seafood, and stunning scenery make for memorable midday adventures. Whether you’re sipping Madeira wine overlooking lush vineyards or enjoying a seaside boat trip with a regional lunch, Madeira offers a diverse range of options that go beyond simple sandwiches. Our favorite? The Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch—not only does it include visits to renowned wineries and scenic vineyard views, but it also pairs tastings with a delicious Madeiran meal. It’s a great way to combine culture, flavor, and sightseeing in one satisfying package.
If you’re craving a more active experience, the Levada Walk, Cider Tasting & Lunch provides a relaxed hike through Madeira’s famous forests followed by cider sampling and orchard lunch—refreshing and authentic. Or, for those who love the sea, the Madeira Boat Trip with Lunch, Drinks, and Hotel Transfer offers a scenic cruise along the coast with opportunities to snorkel and spot marine life. Whatever your style, Madeira’s lunch experiences promise a taste of the island’s flavors paired with unforgettable views and adventures.
1. Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch
At number 1, the Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch shines for its immersive approach to Madeira’s famed wine culture. This full-day journey from Funchal takes you through the vineyards of Câmera de Lobos, Porto Moniz, and São Vicente, with stops at traditional wineries and wine cellars. You’ll enjoy guided tastings of Madeira wines, learning firsthand about the island’s winemaking process—something that truly enhances every sip.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to pair your tastings with a hearty Madeiran lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a real taste of regional cuisine. The tour’s reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, the stunning vineyard vistas, and the delicious food. One guest mentioned, “Lunch was delicious, and the wines were superb,” encapsulating the experience. It’s ideal for wine lovers who want to combine education, scenery, and good food in one day. The tour runs about 8 hours and costs $215.13 per person, making it a worthwhile splurge for a comprehensive taste of Madeira.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you’re passionate about wine and want a full, well-rounded day with beautiful scenery and authentic food.
2. From Funchal: Full-Day Madeira Wine Tour with Lunch
Ranked just slightly below our top pick, the From Funchal: Full-Day Madeira Wine Tour with Lunch offers an equally engaging experience for about $210 per person. It covers different wine regions of the island, with tastings at several wineries and visits to local producers. The tour emphasizes meeting wine makers and exploring regional flavors, enriching your understanding of Madeira’s wine heritage.
What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of visiting a traditional house for a local meal, which adds a rustic, home-cooked feel. Reviewers often mention the highlight of tasting Madeira wines alongside hearty regional dishes, and the guide Sofia’s engaging storytelling brings the experience to life. The 8-hour itinerary balances wine, scenery, and culture, making it attractive to those who like a structured but flexible day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a deep dive into Madeira’s wine industry paired with a genuine local lunch.
3. Real Life, Mountains & Sea Cliffs + Lunch + Levada walk – 6 hours
If you prefer combining sightseeing with a touch of adventure, the Real Life, Mountains & Sea Cliffs + Lunch + Levada walk tops the list at number 3. For around $391.81, a small group (up to 4 people) explores Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes in a private jeep. This tour gives you total flexibility to customize your day—whether you want to visit scenic spots like Girao Cape or learn about local traditions.
What makes this experience special is the opportunity to ride in an open Portuguese jeep through remote mountain villages, hidden valleys, and lush forests. You’ll stop at viewpoints for photos, visit Funchal’s historic district, and even include optional activities like tobogganing. The tour concludes with a delicious local lunch, often at a traditional spot, rounding out a day of sights and authentic food.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a personalized, off-the-beaten-path experience with scenic views and local cuisine.
4. Madeira: Boat Trip with Lunch, Drinks, and Hotel Transfer
Ranked number 4, this Boat Trip with Lunch offers a relaxed half-day escape on the water. For just $63, you’ll set sail from Madeira’s coast, enjoying a buffet lunch featuring local specialties. The trip includes opportunities to snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Calhau da Lapa and to spot marine life such as dolphins and turtles.
What makes this experience stand out is the seamless combination of scenic sailing, wildlife watching, and regional cuisine. The reviews praise the friendly crew, the quality of the lunch, and the chance to unwind while taking in the sea views. One guest noted, “The lunch was tasty and the dolphin sightings made the trip truly special.” It’s ideal for those wanting a shorter, relaxing day that combines outdoors, food, and some marine adventures.
Bottom Line: Great for sea lovers and families wanting a half-day trip with easy logistics and authentic local food.
5. Half Day Madeira Island Cruise with Lunch
Coming in at number 5, this Half Day Madeira Island Cruise with Lunch is a budget-friendly option at $63.05 per person. It’s a 5-hour journey along Madeira’s west coast, where you can often see whales, dolphins, and turtles. The cruise includes a buffet-style regional lunch with two varieties of meat and fresh salads.
What makes this trip appealing is the combination of wildlife spotting and a substantial onboard meal. The reviews highlight the attentive crew, good food, and the chance to relax on a comfortable boat. The trip ends back where it started, making it an easy, no-fuss way to enjoy the coast and its marine life.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and travelers seeking a shorter, wallet-friendly experience.
6. From Funchal: West Bays Sailing Tour with Lunch
Number 6, the West Bays Sailing Tour, is a laid-back sailing adventure along Madeira’s rugged coast. For $80, you’ll sail past bays such as Ponta do Sol and Ribeira Brava, with chances to see dolphins and whales. The tour includes snorkeling and a hearty lunch onboard.
Reviewers mention the friendly crew and the fun of sailing a smaller boat, though some note choppier seas. It’s perfect if you want a more active day with the thrill of the open water and wildlife viewing. The relaxed pace and scenic stops make it suitable for those comfortable with small boat trips.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who love sailing and wildlife, and are comfortable with small boat conditions.
7. From Funchal: Madeira Wine Tour, Cable Car & Typical Lunch
Number 7 offers a comprehensive day combining wine tasting, a cable car ride, and a traditional regional lunch. For $194, this full-day tour covers key highlights like Fajã dos Padres and the São Vicente wine region. You’ll visit vineyards, taste Madeira wines, and enjoy a typical Madeiran meal made from fresh local ingredients.
Guests comment on the engaging guide Sofia, who brings the experience to life with her stories. The mix of scenic vineyard visits, cultural experiences, and good food makes this a top pick for those wanting a well-rounded day.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking a blend of wine, scenery, and culture with a full itinerary.
8. Levada Walk, Cider Tasting & Lunch
Our final pick, number 8, is the Levada Walk, Cider Tasting & Lunch. For $139, you’ll enjoy a scenic walk along Madeira’s famous levada channels, sampling local cider, and having lunch in a traditional orchard. The combination of nature, food, and drink makes it a delightful half-day outing.
Reviewers love the authentic feel, with comments about beautiful forest scenery and tasty cider. This tour is perfect for those who want nature, a light hike, and a taste of local cider and regional dishes in one relaxing package.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and foodies wanting a leisurely, authentic experience.
$139 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Madeira Lunch Experience
When selecting a lunch tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For a comprehensive look at Madeira’s wine culture, the Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch and the From Funchal: Madeira Wine Tour, Cable Car & Typical Lunch are top choices. If you prefer outdoor adventures combined with good food, the Levada Walk, Cider Tasting & Lunch offers a relaxed hike paired with orchard dining.
Sea lovers should look at the Boat Trip with Lunch, Drinks, and Hotel Transfer, which combines marine wildlife with regional cuisine. For a shorter, more budget-friendly outing, the Half Day Madeira Island Cruise with Lunch provides an easy way to enjoy the coast and some marine life.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure spots on these popular excursions. Many tours include hotel pickup, making logistics easier—be sure to check what’s included when you book.
Final Thoughts
Madeira offers a variety of lunch experiences that capture the island’s best flavors and scenery. For those seeking a deep dive into Madeira’s renowned wines, the full-day wine tours provide excellent value and memorable tastings. If outdoor adventure and authentic local eating appeal more, the levada walks or jeep tours offer a nice balance of activity and cuisine. Sea lovers will enjoy the boat trips, while cultural explorers may prefer tours that combine wine, scenery, and local traditions.
No matter your style, Madeira’s lunch experiences promise a hearty taste of the island’s rich offerings. To avoid missing out, book your preferred tour early, especially during busy months. With so many options, you’re sure to find a midday adventure that delights your senses and fits your travel plans.