Madeira isn’t just famous for its stunning landscapes and legendary wine; it’s a place where wine tourism is woven into the fabric of the island. The island’s unique volcanic soils and subtropical climate produce wines with a distinctive flavor that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you want a relaxed tasting at historic cellars or an off-road adventure with panoramic views, Madeira offers a fantastic range of wine tours. Some tours, like the Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch, combine vineyard visits with delicious local cuisine, while others, like the Open Roof Jeep Tour with Madeira Wine Tasting, turn wine discovery into an adrenaline-filled adventure. No matter your style, there’s a Madeira wine experience to match.
Madeira’s wine tours stand out for their diversity—ranging from intimate tastings at family-run wineries to scenic drives along cliff-top vineyards and even boat trips with wine pairings. We’ve included options that highlight the island’s historic wine cellars, scenic viewpoints, and off-the-beaten-path gems. For food lovers, tours like Madeira Food, Wine & Cultural Tour showcase local flavors alongside tastings, while the Guided Foodie Walking Tour reveals Madeira’s culinary scene in a walk through Funchal’s streets. Here’s a curated list of the 15 best Madeira wine tours, each with its own unique twist.
1. Madeira Food, Wine & Cultural Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (785 reviews)
Price: $103.11 per person
Duration: 4 hours
This small-group food and walking tour offers a delicious overview of Madeira’s local specialties. Your guide will handle menus, so language barriers won’t slow you down, and all food and drinks are included—including vegetarian options. It’s perfect for those who want to sample Madeiran cuisine in authentic settings. The tour visits off-the-beaten-path eateries and local markets, giving you a taste of the island’s culinary heritage.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of food, culture, and wine, all in a manageable four-hour window. Visitors love Darlene, the guide, for her enthusiasm and knowledge—she makes the history of Madeira as tasty as the food. If you’re new to Madeira and want a well-rounded introduction, this is a top choice. Bottom line: Excellent value for those interested in both food and wine without a lengthy commitment.
2. Madeira: Cabo Girao, Jeep Tour Adventure and Wine Tasting
Rating: 4.8/5 (436 reviews)
Price: $56 per person
Duration: 4 hours
For around $56, this off-road jeep tour combines breathtaking views, a visit to Cabo Girao’s glass balcony, and a wine tasting at Quinta do Barbusano. Your adventure begins with a pickup in Funchal and takes you to the iconic Cabo Girao cliff, where the glass skywalk offers vertigo-inducing views of the Atlantic. Then, explore the scenic Sao Vicente region with a rugged drive into Madeira’s mountainous heart. The highlight for many is the wine tasting at a local winery.
Guests often mention the lively guide, Andre, and the fun off-road experience—especially the drive through Laurissilva forest. This tour is perfect for adventure seekers who want scenic panoramas combined with wine. The value is high, considering the diverse stops, and it’s suited for travelers comfortable with some bumpy rides. Bottom line: A lively, scenic adventure with a splash of wine.
3. Madeira: Food and Wine Walking Tour in Funchal
Rating: 4.8/5 (383 reviews)
Price: $97 per person
Duration: 3.5 hours
This food-focused walking tour in Funchal takes you to eight different venues for 11 food tastings and six drinks, including wines, at local producers, markets, and restaurants. It’s an excellent way to explore the city’s culinary scene while learning about Madeira’s regional ingredients. The tour’s pace is relaxed, making it ideal for those who want a taste of the city’s culture along with their food.
Guests appreciate the variety and quality—Robert, the guide, is praised for his knowledge and humor. The tour ends in the vibrant Zona Velha, giving you time to explore further. Bottom line: A tasty, immersive experience that’s perfect for foodies and culture lovers alike.
4. Madeira: Guided Foodie Walking Tour with Tastings and Wine
Rating: 4.7/5 (470 reviews)
Price: $101 per person
Duration: 4 hours
If you want a delicious deep dive into Madeiran cuisine, this tour offers four hours of culinary discovery. You’ll visit local markets and small eateries, sampling regional foods alongside wine tastings. The guide shares insights into Madeira’s gastronomic traditions, making each stop educational and flavorful. Guests love that the tour includes a mix of food, drinks, and cultural stories.
Many reviewers recommend doing this tour early in your trip—so you can revisit favorite spots or try more on your own later. It’s suited for foodies eager to learn and taste. Bottom line: A well-rounded, tasty introduction that balances culture and cuisine.
5. Eating Madeira! Wine & Food Tour in Funchal
Rating: 5.0/5 (186 reviews)
Price: $98.84 per person
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
This guided walking tour combines Madeira’s culinary scene with local wines and a lively atmosphere. Starting at Mercado dos Lavradores, you’ll visit nine stops, sampling regional delicacies in restaurants, markets, and bars. The focus is on local ingredients and wines, offering a true taste of Madeira’s food culture.
Many reviewers mention the generous portions and fun atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but wanting an authentic experience. The tour ends in Funchal’s historic old town, perfect for further exploration. Bottom line: A compact, flavorful whirlwind of Madeira’s best eats and drinks.
6. Madeira: Cabo Girao, Wine Tasting, & Serra d’Água Jeep Tour
Rating: 4.8/5 (283 reviews)
Price: $85 per person
Duration: 4 hours
This tour offers a blend of scenic vistas and wine. After visiting Cabo Girao’s skywalk, you’ll explore Serra d’Água’s lush landscapes on an off-road drive, with stops at a vineyard for wine tasting at Quinta do Barbusano. The journey showcases Madeira’s mountainous terrain and verdant valleys.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guide, and many note the adventure’s balance—beautiful views, a bit of off-road fun, and wine. It’s perfect if you want scenic highlights with a wine tasting in a manageable four-hour trip. Bottom line: An engaging, picturesque experience with excellent wine stops.
7. Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch
Rating: 5.0/5 (158 reviews)
Price: $215.13 per person
Duration: 8 hours
This all-day excursion visits wineries in Câmara de Lobos, Porto Moniz, and São Vicente, with guided cellar tours and tastings. Included is a delicious Madeiran lunch at a local restaurant, making it a full immersion into the island’s wine and food culture. The tour offers scenic views of vineyards, laurel forests, and coastlines.
Guests love the comprehensive itinerary and the opportunity to meet local winemakers. The trip is suited for those who want a deep dive into Madeira’s wine industry with a side of sightseeing. The price reflects the extensive experience, making it a good value for dedicated wine lovers. Bottom line: Ideal for connoisseurs wanting a complete Madeira wine experience.
8. From Funchal: Full-Day Madeira Wine Tour with Lunch
Rating: 4.9/5 (143 reviews)
Price: $210 per person
Duration: 8 hours
Similar to the previous, this full-day tour takes you through Madeira’s wine regions with visits to various wineries. Your guide shares stories about Madeira’s wine industry, and you’ll enjoy tastings at different estates. The lunch at a vineyard adds local flavor and an opportunity to relax amid stunning vineyard views.
Guests mention the friendly guide and the variety of wineries visited. The tour suits those eager to explore multiple regions and learn about Madeira’s wine production in depth. It offers great value considering the extensive itinerary. Bottom line: A detailed, all-encompassing wine tour for enthusiasts.
9. Funchal: H.M. Borges Winery Guided Tour with Wine Tasting
Rating: 4.7/5 (193 reviews)
Price: $17 per person
Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
This short, guided visit focuses on the family-run HMBorges winery. You’ll learn about their history and winemaking process before sampling 2-6 wines. It’s quick but informative, offering a window into Madeira’s boutique wineries.
People appreciate the friendly staff and the value for such a brief experience. It’s perfect if you’re passing through Funchal and want a quick wine fix. Bottom line: Compact, affordable, and educational for time-constrained travelers.
10. Open Roof Jeep Tour with Madeira Wine Tasting
Rating: 4.9/5 (43 reviews)
Price: $83 per person
Duration: 6 hours
This half-day adventure combines spectacular views, a scenic drive through Laurissilva forest, and a visit to Henriques & Henriques winery. The open roof Jeep adds a fun element, perfect for sightseeing while enjoying Madeira’s mountains and valleys.
Reviews highlight the friendly guides and the fun off-road experience. It’s suited for those seeking a scenic, interactive day with wine tastings included. The 6-hour duration makes it a manageable outing for most. Bottom line: An active, scenic tour with a focus on Madeira’s natural beauty and wine.
11. Wine and Sugar Walking Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (22 reviews)
Price: $42
Duration: 2 hours
This brief but engaging walking tour explores Funchal’s historic city center, focusing on Madeira’s two key crops—wine and sugar. Your guide shares stories of how these industries shaped the island’s architecture and culture. The tour is a personal, small-group experience with a focus on history and local influence.
Guests find it very informative and a great way to understand the background of Madeira’s famous exports. It’s perfect if you want a quick cultural fix. Bottom line: Short, insightful, and ideal if you’re interested in Madeira’s economic roots.
12. Madeira: Wine Tasting Experience Honey Museum and Cabo Girao
Rating: 4.7/5 (49 reviews)
Price: $101 per person
Duration: 7.5 hours
This full-day tour features spectacular views from Serra d’Água, a visit to the Honey Museum, and a wine tasting at Quinta do Barbusano. It concludes with a visit to Cabo Girao’s cliff and a wine tasting at Henriques & Henriques.
Reviewers praise the variety of stops and the opportunity to see Madeira’s natural and cultural highlights. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a diverse experience of scenery, local honey, and wine. The long duration is best suited for those wanting a full immersion. Bottom line: A well-rounded day mixing nature, culture, and wine.
13. Funchal: Cabo Girao, Wines Tasting and Dolphins Watching
Rating: 4.6/5 (48 reviews)
Price: $101 per person
Duration: 8 hours
This full-day trip combines spectacular views from Cabo Girao, dolphin and whale watching from a catamaran, and a wine tasting at Camara de Lobos. The boat trip adds a maritime element to the wine experience, offering a different perspective of Madeira’s coast.
Guests note the friendly guides and the chance to see marine life. It’s a great pick for those wanting active sightseeing combined with wine in a comprehensive 8-hour outing. Bottom line: A versatile trip perfect for lovers of both wine and ocean adventures.
14. Half-Day Small-Group Wine Tour in Madeira
Rating: 4.5/5 (50 reviews)
Price: $82.94 per person
Duration: 4 hours
This small-group tour involves a visit to a local winery with a guided tour, wine tasting, and a scenic stop at Cabo Girao. You’ll meet a wine producer and enologist, gaining insight into Madeira’s wine-making traditions. The tour is intimate and personalized, with a focus on culture and craftsmanship.
Guests enjoy the personal attention and the chance to taste local wines and tapas. It’s ideal if you want a hands-on experience without a full-day commitment. Bottom line: A tailored, authentic wine experience for those short on time.
15. Private Cruise with Wine Tasting in Funchal Bay
Rating: 5.0/5 (11 reviews)
Price: $42
Duration: 3 hours
Venture onto the Atlantic in a private boat during sunset, and enjoy three Riesling wines from Terra Bona paired with local snacks. This personalized cruise offers a peaceful, scenic way to experience Madeira’s coastline and wine.
Reviewers mention the friendly hosts and the beautiful setting. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a luxurious, intimate experience with flexible timing. Bottom line: An elegant, relaxing way to enjoy Madeira’s sea and wine in style.
How to Choose Your Madeira Wine Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, the amount of time you have, and whether you prefer a relaxed tasting or an active adventure. If you’re short on time but want a deep dive into Madeira’s wines, the H.M. Borges Winery Tour is ideal. For those seeking scenery combined with wine, the Jeep Tours or the Full-Day Wine Tours offer extensive views and variety.
Budget-conscious travelers should consider quick but informative experiences like the Wine Tasting Experience Honey Museum and Cabo Girao, while those craving a romantic sunset cruise will enjoy the Private Cruise with Wine Tasting.
Booking early is recommended during peak seasons (spring and summer) to secure your spot, especially for popular tours like the Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting or the Cabo Girao Jeep Adventure.
Final Thoughts
Madeira’s wine tours run the gamut from quick tastings to full-day explorations. If you’re a foodie, the Food & Wine Walking Tour offers a flavorful introduction, while if you’re after adventure and vistas, the Jeep Tours or Open Roof Jeep are perfect. For the connoisseur, the comprehensive wine day trips provide a deep dive into Madeira’s wine culture.
No matter your style or budget, Madeira’s wine experiences promise spectacular scenery, delicious tastes, and a chance to understand why Madeira wine is renowned worldwide. Book early, plan your preferred type of adventure, and enjoy a trip that’s as rich and flavorful as the island’s famous wines.