Funchal is a fantastic base for exploring Madeira. Its combination of lively markets, scenic coastlines, and surrounding mountains makes it ideal for short breaks. For travelers eager to see as much of the island as possible, these 2-day tours offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and local charm. Our favorite is the Around The Island tour, which covers major landmarks like Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz natural pools, giving you a broad overview in just two days. Plus, with small-group settings and hassle-free transfers, it makes for an easy, engaging experience. If you want to dive into both nature and tradition, the All Madeira In 2 Days tour offers a more immersive approach—check it out here.
Below, you’ll find five top-rated options, each with its own unique flavor. Whether you prefer comprehensive island-wide adventures, cultural explorations, or scenic drives, there’s a tour here that matches your wants and needs.
1. Around The Island – Two Days Tour From 9am To 5pm (Each Day)
At number 1, this two-day tour stands out for its balance of depth and convenience. Covering top landmarks like Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz natural pools, and Camara de Lobos, it offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s highlights. The tour runs from 9 am to 5 pm each day, making it easy to plan your trip without feeling rushed.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small-group format, which ensures more personal attention from your guides. The itinerary includes visits to Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and scenic stops at the Arieiro and Ruivo summits. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides, with reviews mentioning Renato and Gloria for their engaging storytelling and local tips. The price of around $71.10 per person offers excellent value, especially given the extensive list of attractions.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, hassle-free way to see Madeira’s most iconic sights in a short amount of time. The only potential downside: it’s a busy, full itinerary, so if you prefer a slower pace, other options might suit you better.
Bottom Line: If efficiency and seeing Madeira’s key sights with expert guides appeal to you, this tour is a top choice.
2. All Madeira In 2 Days Tour
Coming in at number 2, this two-day tour emphasizes nature, history, and tradition, giving you a deeper connection with Madeira’s cultural fabric. It’s priced slightly higher at $75.92 but compensates with a detailed itinerary that includes famous fishing villages, Cape Girao’s skywalk, and visits to Ribeira Brava.
One notable feature is the inclusion of less-touristy spots like the Caminho Real da Encumeada, offering a scenic mountain drive that winds up to Serra d’Água. Tour guides like Paulo and Renato are celebrated for their enthusiasm and local knowledge, providing insightful commentary along the way. Reviewers mention the tour’s capacity to balance beautiful scenery with cultural stories, making it suitable for travelers who want a more authentic experience.
This tour’s unique selling point is its focus on less crowded spots and a more relaxed pace, which allows for better photos and more time at each stop. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the island’s highlights but still enjoy a personal touch.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a more immersive, less hurried tour that still hits all the major sights, this is a solid pick.
3. Discover Madeira In 2 Days (from 09h To 17h – Each Day)
Ranking third, this two-day tour offers a balanced experience with visits to Baia de Camara de Lobos, Cape Girao, and the Caminho Real da Encumeada. Priced at $74.96, it’s slightly more expensive but pays off with detailed narratives and carefully selected stops.
The itinerary emphasizes natural beauty and scenic drives, and guides like Gloria and Renato are praised for their engaging storytelling. The tour also includes rambles into the Laurissilva forest, adding a touch of adventure for nature lovers. Reviewers appreciate the intimate group size—around 12-15 travelers—making it more personal.
What makes this tour stand out is the attention to detail in storytelling and the variety of stops, from fishing villages to mountain passes. The tour is best suited for those who want a rundown of Madeira, with enough time to appreciate each location.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded, engaging experience that balances scenic drives with cultural insights, this tour fits the bill.
4. The Ultimate Tour (2 days)
Number 4 on our list, the Ultimate Tour offers an in-depth look at Madeira’s peaks, forests, and villages. priced at $86.76, it is the most expensive but also the most focused on natural highlights, including Pico do Arieiro and Ribeiro Frio.
Guides take you to Camacha, famous for its handicrafts and folklore, and to Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest point at 1818 meters. The tour also includes visits to Fortress of Faial and Ribeiro Frio, with a focus on high-altitude views and UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forests.
Guests praise the guides for their passion and knowledge, and the itinerary’s focus on natural landscapes makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The smaller number of reviews suggests it’s a more specialized experience, perfect for travelers wanting an adventure into Madeira’s peaks.
The main downside is the higher price, but if your priority is mountain scenery and authentic natural experiences, this tour delivers.
Bottom Line: For active travelers keen on mountain vistas and forests, this tour is a rewarding choice.
5. Madeira Complete 2-day Tour
Finally, the Madeira Complete 2-day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island for around $71. It’s unique in including Fanal and the Guindaste Viewpoint, providing access to less-visited but spectacular locations.
This tour is best for travelers who want a curated, comfortable experience that mixes cultural highlights, natural sites, and scenic viewpoints. Guides are praised for their multilingual expertise and ability to make each stop meaningful. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed pace with the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path sites.
Because this tour emphasizes peace and comfort, it avoids crowds and offers a more exclusive experience. With a slightly lower rating (due to only three reviews), it’s less tried but still highly rated for completeness and quality.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a more curated, peaceful exploration with special stops like Fanal, this tour offers great value.
$71 per person
How to Choose the Best 2-Day Tour in Funchal
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, interest level, and fitness. For a broad overview, the Around The Island tour is unbeatable for its coverage and value. If you prefer a more in-depth cultural experience, the All Madeira In 2 Days or Discover Madeira tours might suit you better. For those outdoor enthusiasts, the Ultimate Tour delivers high mountain vistas. And if you want a more exclusive, peaceful experience, the Madeira Complete tour fits well.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred tour date and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Funchal offers an array of 2-day tours that cater to different tastes—whether you’re after scenic drives, cultural insights, or adventurous mountain hikes. For a comprehensive island overview, the Around The Island tour is a top pick. For a more relaxed, in-depth experience, consider the All Madeira In 2 Days or Discover Madeira options. And if mountain scenery is your passion, the Ultimate Tour will not disappoint.
No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you’ll get a spot on these popular excursions. Madeira’s diversity means there’s a perfect tour for everyone—just pick your favorite, and enjoy exploring this stunning island.