Bar hopping Tour & Poncha Workshop

Discovering Funchal’s Flavors: A Walk Through the Best Bars and Local Drinks

If you’re after a taste of Madeira’s lively drinking culture and authentic flavors, the Bar Hopping Tour & Poncha Workshop offers a fun, well-rounded experience. For $91 per person, you’ll spend about three hours wandering through Funchal’s historic streets, stopping at six different venues, each showcasing a different local drink or specialty. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour combines tasting, learning, and a bit of sightseeing in a way that’s perfect for curious travelers.

What we love about this experience is the chance to try artisanal beers and locally produced wines, giving us a real taste of Madeira’s craftsmanship. Plus, the Poncha workshop—which, despite some mixed reviews, offers an opportunity to see how this iconic drink is made—adds an interactive element that’s rare in standard bar tours. On the flip side, a few guests mentioned that the workshop component isn’t as hands-on as they expected, which is something to keep in mind if you’re hoping to make your own Poncha from scratch.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy tasting a variety of drinks in a relaxed setting and are interested in learning about Madeira’s unique brewing and winemaking traditions. It’s particularly ideal if you like a mix of culture, socializing, and authentic local experiences. However, if you’re expecting a deep dive into the craft of mixology or a full workshop, you might find the experience a bit light on those details.

This experience made our article of Madeira’s 13 Top Workshops & Classes (With Prices).

Key Points

Authentic Tasting Experience: Multiple stops for local beers, wines, Ginja, and cocktails.
Cultural Insight: Learn about Madeira’s drink traditions from friendly guides.
Interactive Element: Poncha workshop included, offering a chance to learn its secrets.
Versatile Venues: From cozy taverns to stylish bars, each stop offers a distinct atmosphere.
Quality of Drinks: Guests praise the selection, especially the Madeira wines and Ginja.
Group Size: Intimate enough to feel personal, with a maximum of 15 participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

The tour kicks off at Blandy’s Wine Lodges, ideally right at the entrance, where you’ll begin with a tasting of Madeira’s famous white still wine. This first stop sets a welcoming tone and gives you a solid sense of the local wine’s character—think nutty, complex, and surprisingly versatile. The guides are helpful and friendly, eager to share the story behind Madeira’s unique fortified wines.

Next, the tour takes you to a local bar, where you’ll taste three artisanal beers. These are crafted with local ingredients, and each offers a different flavor profile—from light and crisp to richer, more robust brews. These stops are often highlighted as a favorite by guests because they showcase Madeira’s brewing talent beyond just wine.

The third stop introduces Ginja, also known as ginjinha—a cherry liqueur with a bright, sweet-tart flavor. What makes this tasting memorable is the way it’s served in an edible chocolate cup, an unexpected treat that adds a playful touch and enhances the experience, according to reviews.

Moving on, you’ll explore Madeira wine, famed for its longevity and complexity. The tasting here gives guests insight into the diverse styles, from dry to sweet, and a sense of why Madeira wine has been celebrated for centuries. Many visitors comment on the quality and depth of these wines, making it a definite highlight.

The Nikita cocktail is next—a refreshing blend of beer, ice cream, and tropical fruits—a signature Madeiran drink that’s creamy, sweet, and surprisingly satisfying. Guests who try it often find it a fun, cool refreshment, especially in the warm weather.

Finally, the tour culminates with a Poncha workshop. Guided by your host, you’ll learn how to make this iconic drink—a mixture of aguardente (sugarcane spirit), honey, and lemon juice. While some reviews note that the workshop isn’t as interactive or hands-on as anticipated, most agree it’s a nice way to end the evening with a taste of local tradition.

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What Makes This Tour Particularly Valuable

The value of this tour lies in its curated selection of drinks and the storytelling that accompanies each stop. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience feel personal rather than commercial. The variety of venues, from traditional taverns to modern bars, gives a well-rounded look at Funchal’s nightlife and beverage scene.

The tastings are generously portioned, providing a genuine experience of Madeira’s drink culture without the need to visit multiple venues on your own. The inclusion of local white wine and artisanal beers adds depth to the experience, especially for those interested in craft beverages. The Ginja in a chocolate cup is not just Instagram-worthy but also a tasty way to explore local flavors.

The Poncha workshop, despite some guests’ expectations of a full hands-on making experience, effectively introduces you to the drink’s ingredients and traditional preparation. You’ll leave with a better appreciation for Madeira’s signature spirit, even if you don’t get to craft your own Poncha from scratch.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts approximately three hours and starts at 4:30 PM, making it an ideal activity for an early evening. Meeting at Blandy’s Wine Lodges ensures a central location close to many of Funchal’s attractions. It’s wise to arrive 15 minutes early to settle in and meet your guide.

The group size is capped at around 15, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and allows for personalized attention. The price of $91 includes all tastings and the Poncha workshop—an excellent value considering the variety and quality of drinks offered.

Note that transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, or those over 95, which is typical for alcohol-focused activities.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback

Guests have expressed strong appreciation for the knowledgeable guides and the range of drinks sampled. One reviewer wrote, “Matt was fantastic, sharing stories and insider tips, and each bar had its own charm,” highlighting the tour’s informal, friendly vibe.

Others appreciated the quality of Madeira wines and the spectacular Ginja, especially when served in the edible chocolate cup, which adds a playful dimension. The artisanal beers were also a highlight, showcasing Madeira’s brewing creativity.

On the downside, a few guests felt that the Poncha workshop was not as interactive or hands-on as they had hoped. The focus seemed more on tasting and learning about the drinks rather than actually making Poncha from scratch. If you’re after a full craft experience, this might be a slight disappointment.

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Who Should Book This Tour?

This activity suits travelers who enjoy sampling local beverages in a social, relaxed setting. It’s perfect if you want a cultural overview of Madeira’s drink traditions without committing to separate visits to wineries or bars. Ideal for wine enthusiasts, beer lovers, or those curious about Ginja and Poncha.

If your main goal is to learn how to make Poncha yourself, you might want to inquire further, as some reviews suggest the workshop is more about tasting and understanding rather than hands-on crafting. The tour is also well-suited for small groups that enjoy storytelling and an authentic local atmosphere.

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The Sum Up

The Bar Hopping Tour & Poncha Workshop in Funchal offers a lively, authentic taste of Madeira’s beverage scene, with a good balance of tasting, storytelling, and small interactive moments. While it might not satisfy those seeking a detailed cocktail-making class, it provides a memorable evening of exploration through local wines, beers, Ginja, and the iconic Poncha.

The tour’s true strength is the careful curation of venues and drinks, combined with guides who share insights into Madeira’s drink traditions. It’s a great way to get a feel for Funchal’s nightlife and local culture in a convivial, friendly environment. If you’re a curious traveler eager to experience Madeira’s flavors firsthand, this tour is a solid, enjoyable choice.

FAQ

Is the Poncha workshop hands-on?
The workshop mainly involves learning about Poncha and tasting it. Some guests expected more active participation in making their own, but it’s generally more about understanding the drink’s ingredients and history.

Are all tastings included in the price?
Yes, the price covers local artisanal beers, white Madeira wine, Ginja in a chocolate cup, Madeira wine, the Nikita cocktail, and the Poncha tasting.

What’s the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Blandy’s Wine Lodges, at the entrance, located on Avenida Arriaga 28, right in central Funchal.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about three hours, starting at 4:30 PM. It’s advisable to arrive 15 minutes early.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women due to the alcohol tastings.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

What if I want to explore Madeira’s wine scene more deeply?
This tour provides a good introduction, but for more extensive wine tastings, you might consider other specialized tours listed in similar experiences.

Is transportation provided?
No, you need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, as it’s not included.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
The tour focuses on drinks, so unless you have specific allergies or restrictions regarding alcohol, you should be fine. It’s best to inform the guide beforehand.

This tour offers a lively, flavorful snapshot of Madeira’s drink culture—perfect for those who want to taste, learn, and enjoy in a friendly setting. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just curious, it’s a lively, well-organized way to spend an evening in Funchal.