Funchal, the lively capital of Madeira, is a prime destination for wine lovers. The island’s unique climate and volcanic soils produce distinctive wines, and the local scene offers a variety of ways to taste and explore. Whether you prefer an adrenaline-pumping 4×4 adventure with vineyard visits or a relaxing sunset picnic at Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s wine tours cater to different tastes and schedules. We particularly enjoy tours that combine scenic views with tasting, like the Skywalk with Wines Tasting and Vineyards Half day 4×4 Adventure, which offers a mix of off-road fun, spectacular cliff views, and a visit to a local vineyard. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of adventure along with their wine.
Madeira’s wine tours are not just about tasting; they’re about experiencing the landscape, culture, and craftsmanship behind each bottle. From guided vineyard visits to panoramic skywalks and private full-day tours, there’s something for every kind of wine enthusiast. Keep reading to find out which options suit your interests and how to make the most of your visit.
1. Skywalk with Wines Tasting and Vineyards Half day 4×4 Adventure
At number 1, this half-day 4×4 adventure combines breathtaking views with authentic wine tasting. After hotel pickup in Funchal or Caniço, you’ll hop into a rugged 4×4 and head toward viewpoints like Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest sea cliff at 589 meters — complete with a glass floor balcony for daring photos. Then, you’ll visit the vineyards of São Vicente, where a local winemaker guides you through tasting white, red, and rosé wines. What makes this tour stand out is the perfect combination of off-road driving, scenic stops, and a hands-on vineyard experience. The reviews highlight the fun off-road aspect and the knowledgeable guide, Diogo, as well as the value of the wine tastings. For about $86, it’s an excellent quick immersion into Madeira’s landscape and wines. It’s best suited for travelers seeking adventure and culture in just half a day, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.
Bottom Line: Great for adventure lovers who want a comprehensive half-day tour with scenic vistas and local wine insights.
2. Skywalk and 4×4 Adventure with Amazing Views and Wine Tasting
At number 2, this small-group Jeep tour offers a more affordable way to explore Madeira’s cliffs and valleys, with stops at Boca dos Namorados, Jardim da Serra, and Cabo Girao. It’s perfect if you want a more intimate experience; the small group size ensures personalized attention. The highlight is undoubtedly the Cabo Girao glass platform, where you’ll get exceptional views of the Atlantic. The tour also includes a tasting of Madeira wines, adding a relaxing touch to the adventure. Guests praise the energetic guide Gil for his local knowledge and maneuvering through narrow mountain roads. For $52, you get a full four hours of sightseeing, off-roading, and wine tasting — a great value for those wanting a relaxed but scenic day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers on a budget who seek a smaller, more personal tour with stunning views and local wines.
3. Skywalk, Madeira Wines Tasting and Vineyards 4×4 Experience
Number 3 offers an all-encompassing day tour that combines skywalk views, vineyard visits, and wine tasting paired with local snacks. Starting with Cabo Girao, you then explore São Vicente’s wine producers, followed by a visit to Girão Cape for panoramic Atlantic vistas. The tour then takes you to the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos for another wine tasting experience. This tour, priced at around $103, is perfect for those who want a full immersion into Madeira’s scenic and wine culture. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking viewpoints, making it a memorable day for lovers of both landscapes and wine.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a detailed, full-day experience with diverse scenery and multiple wine tastings.
4. Madeira Island Private Wine Full-day Tour in all terrain vehicle
Number 4 is a private, full-day tour that combines the best of Madeira’s top highlights with a personalized wine experience. Led by a private guide, you’ll explore vineyards on cultivated terraces and learn about the island’s famous Madeira wine, including fortified and table varieties. The itinerary includes a visit to Girao Cape and the Seixal natural pools, perfect for a quick dip. For $286, up to five people enjoy a tailored experience, making it excellent for families or small groups who want flexibility and exclusivity. Guests appreciate the private guide’s in-depth knowledge and the scenic views along the rugged terrain.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, customized day of wine, sightseeing, and natural beauty.
5. Wines Tasting Experience and Skywalk with Dolphin Watching
Number 5 combines wine tasting with dolphin watching, providing a full-day adventure at about 8 hours. Starting with vineyard visits and a tour of the Cabo Girao Skywalk, this tour also offers a boat trip to see dolphins in their natural habitat. It’s great for those who want a variety-filled day—from land to sea—with the chance to relax while enjoying Madeira wines and spotting marine life. Reviewers note the guide Rui’s engaging personality and the seamless logistics. For $124, this is a fantastic option for active travelers who love both wine and wildlife.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a multi-sensory experience that combines scenic views, wine, and dolphin encounters.
6. Visiting local Vineyard With Wine Tasting & Lunch included
Number 6 is a full-day private tour ideal for wine aficionados who want to explore different vineyard regions. Starting with a visit to Quinta do Barbusano in São Vicente, the tour then continues to the north coast and a local vineyard with wine tasting paired with traditional tapas. The meal, including espetada, complements the wines perfectly. Costing around $207 per person, it offers a culinary-rich experience with personalized attention. Guests value the in-depth vineyard visits and the opportunity to try several types of Madeira wine, plus the authentic Madeira lunch.
Bottom Line: Best for wine and food lovers wanting a relaxed, intimate full-day experience with local culinary flavors.
7. Madeira: Wine & Tapas, Cabo Girão Skywalk 4×4 Jeep Adventure
Number 7 is a compact 4-hour tour focused on combining wine, tapas, and stunning views. It includes visiting Cabo Girao for breathtaking heights, exploring São Vicente, and enjoying tasting six exceptional wines with cheese and chorizo. The small group (up to 8 people) makes it a cozy way to explore. Guests praise guide Dino for his humor and knowledge, and the tour’s balanced mix of scenic stops and tastings. For $51, it offers great value and a fun, social atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a short but rich experience combining scenic heights, wine, and local flavors.
8. Madeira: Fado Show with Madeira Wine
Number 8 offers a cultural break from outdoor adventures with a 50-minute Fado music performance paired with a glass of Madeira wine. It’s perfect for those interested in Portugal’s soulful music tradition and a relaxed, intimate setting. While not a full tour, it’s a charming way to experience Madeira’s musical heritage and iconic wine in one evening. At $30, it’s an affordable cultural experience that complements your outdoor explorations.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a cultural highlight and a taste of Madeira’s musical soul.
9. Half day jeep Wine tour and tasting, & sea cliff adventure
Number 9 is a half-day adventure that offers a mix of sea cliff views, vineyard visits, and wine tasting. Traveling in an open-top 4×4, you’ll see Cabo Girao, Quinta Grande, and other scenic spots, with the chance to taste Madeira wines at local vineyards. The tour’s reviews mention the exceptional off-road fun and the guide’s engaging personality. For around $62, you get a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and wine, suitable for travelers short on time but eager for a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want a quick, diverse taste of Madeira’s natural beauty and wine culture.
10. Madeira: Heavenly Sunset Pico do Arieiro with Snacks & Wine
Number 10 provides an evening escape with a sunset picnic at Pico do Arieiro. For about $78, you’ll enjoy spectacular mountain views, local snacks, and a glass of wine or beer as you watch the sunset. The tour also includes visits to Camacha and offers the chance to experience Madeira’s mountains at their most majestic. Reviewers describe the experience as magical, with breathtaking scenery and attentive guides making it special.
Bottom Line: Perfect for romantics or anyone looking for a peaceful, scenic sunset experience.
11. Bestselling Wine Tour, Tasting Experience & Skywalk 4×4 Adventure
Number 11 offers a top-rated combination of scenic drives and wine tastings, focusing on less crowded locations. The tour visits Quinta Barbusano, Serra de Água, and São Vicente, with a tasting of six wines paired with toasted cheese. The non-crowded experience and the inclusion of unique stops make it stand out. Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the off-road exploration, making it ideal for those who want a more exclusive feel for around $63. It’s well suited for travelers who value quality over quantity.
Bottom Line: Excellent for wine lovers who want a less touristy, more personal experience with scenic drives.
12. Guided 4×4 Adventure and Skywalk with Wine and Tapas in Madeira
Number 12 features a 3.5-hour guided jeep tour combining scenic views, wine tasting, and local tapas. The itinerary includes Cabo Girao, Quinta Grande’s glass platform, and charming villages like Camara de Lobos. The tour emphasizes culinary delights and adventure, with reviews noting the fun guide and the scenic off-road routes. For $60, it’s a good choice for travelers who want a short, action-packed day with authentic flavors.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a compact, fun-filled tour with scenic heights and local cuisine.
13. Half-Day Wine Tour- Shared
Number 13 is a shared, 4-hour tour focused on visiting Cabo Girao, Serra d’Água, and São Vicente, with a visit to a local vineyard for Madeira wine tasting. It’s priced at $86, making it an affordable choice. The tour includes off-road experiences and visits to interesting spots, suited for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and tasting without exclusivity. Reviews highlight the scenic views and friendly guide.
Bottom Line: Good for budget-conscious travelers who want a reliable, scenic half-day experience.
14. Guided Toboggan Ride and Madeira Wine Tasting Tour
Number 14 offers a unique combination of traditional toboggan rides from Monte and wine tasting. For $105, you get to experience the classic wicker sled descent and visit the lively Funchal market. It’s a fun cultural experience that blends history and tradition with a tasting of Madeira wines. Guests love the thrill of the toboggan and the lively atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a cultural, fun, and memorable Madeira experience.
$104.72 per person
15. Wine taste, 4×4 Jeep Adventure and Cabo Girao Skywalk
Number 15 is a compact 3.5-hour tour combining wine tasting, scenic drives, and the Cabo Girao Skywalk. With a small group and expert guide, you visit lush vineyards, enjoy panoramic views from the skywalk, and taste Madeira wines in the rugged landscape. Reviews mention the excellent driver Lino, and the tour’s mix of adventure, scenery, and tasting makes it very popular at just over $57. It’s an excellent choice for travelers short on time but wanting a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for a quick, scenic, and flavorful Madeira adventure.
How to Choose the Best Madeira Wine Tour for You
When deciding on a Madeira wine tour, consider your priorities. For adventure and scenic views, tours like the Skywalk with Wines Tasting and Vineyards or the Half day jeep Wine tour offer adrenaline and breathtaking vistas. If you prefer a more relaxed, culinary experience, options like the Visiting local Vineyard with Wine Tasting & Lunch or the Full-day private tour suit wine and foodies. Budget travelers might prefer the Skywalk and wine tasting, while those seeking culture may enjoy the Fado show with Madeira wine.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and time. Think about whether you want a full-day private experience or a short, scenic excursion — Madeira’s variety means there’s a perfect tour waiting for you.
In summary, Funchal offers an impressive range of wine tours that cover scenic viewpoints, vineyard visits, and cultural experiences. Highlighted here are options that suit different tastes and schedules, from adventure-packed off-road trips to intimate private tastings. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, a relaxed culinary day, or a cultural evening, Madeira’s wine tours deliver authentic flavors and unforgettable views—so plan ahead and enjoy a sip of Madeira’s finest.