Lisbon to Madeira Discovery - 9 Days

Once you have arrived in Lisbon, a private transfer will take you to your hotel for check-in. You may have some time to explore the city, grab a meal, or relax.

This evening, we will experience the soul of Portugal at a traditional Fado performance, where heartfelt melodies capture the spirit of Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods.

During the show, we will enjoy a welcome dinner featuring some of the most beloved dishes of Portuguese cuisine, a perfect introduction to the country’s rich culinary heritage.

Today, we depart from our hotel for a half-day city tour with a local guide, who will introduce the main sights of Portugal’s capital. The tour begins along Avenida da Liberdade, once a grand promenade for the nobility and royal family.

We will then visit Parque Eduardo VII, the city’s largest central park, named in honour of King Edward VII of England after his visit in 1903 to reaffirm the long-standing alliance between the two nations.

Next, we will explore Lisbon’s most characterful neighbourhoods, including Alfama and Bairro Alto, where age-old traditions and cultural influences blend to create a lively atmosphere. The tour concludes at Praca do Comércio, one of Europe’s largest squares, offering sweeping views over the Tagus River and the vibrant city beyond.

In the afternoon, you will have free time to relax or explore more of Lisbon at your own pace.

Lisbon - Sintra - Cascais - Estoril - Lisbon. This morning, we will set off on a transfer to discover the enchanting towns of Sintra and Cascais. Just 30 kilometres from Lisbon, Sintra feels as though it has been lifted straight from a fairy tale. Its mild climate, lush vegetation and mystical atmosphere make it one of Portugal’s most romantic and inspiring destinations.

You will have the opportunity to visit one of Sintra’s most iconic landmarks. You may explore the National Palace of Sintra, the colourful Pena Palace, the elegant Palace of Monserrate or the intriguing Quinta da Regaleira, each offering a distinctive glimpse into the town’s rich history and charm.

Our journey continues to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. Here, we can take in breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean before travelling on to Cascais, a fishing village dating back to the 12th century that has grown into an elegant seaside retreat while preserving its historic character.

Our return to Lisbon will follow the scenic coastal road through Estoril, known for its beautiful beaches and graceful seaside architecture.

Please note: that the monuments in Sintra are closed on 24 and 25 December, 1 January and Easter Sunday.

Lisbon - Evora - Lisbon. We will travel to the historic city of Évora for a full-day visit. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, Évora is often referred to as both the White City and the Museum City. This charming Alentejo town captivates visitors with its ornate churches, ancient monuments, lively squares, whitewashed houses, and narrow medieval streets.

After time for lunch, we will visit a local wine estate to learn about the production process before enjoying a tasting of regional wines, a fitting end to our day in the heart of Alentejo.

Lisbon – Funchal. After breakfast, we will check out of our hotel in Lisbon and transfer to the airport for our flight to the beautiful island of Madeira. On arrival at Funchal airport, we’ll be met and taken to our hotel to settle in.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. You may prefer to relax after your journey or head out to explore the island’s charming streets and coastal scenery at your own pace.

Funchal – Ribeira Brava – Sao Vicente – Porto Moniz – Funchal. Today, we will explore the beautiful western region of the island. We begin with a visit to the traditional fishing village of Camara de Lobos, known for its colourful boats and lively harbour. We then continue to Cabo Girao, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, where we can enjoy spectacular views of the coastline and terraced hillsides.

Next, we travel to Ribeira Brava before heading inland through the lush valleys of Serra D’Água. At the top, the viewpoint of Encumeada offers breathtaking panoramas of both the north and south coasts.

We then make our way to Sao Vicente, one of the largest villages on Madeira’s northern shore, before arriving in the charming coastal town of Porto Moniz. Here, you’ll have around an hour for lunch and time to admire the famous volcanic rock pools.

In the afternoon, we cross the island’s highest plateau, Paul da Serra, taking in its vast, open landscapes before returning to our hotel for the evening.

Funchal – Santana – Machico – Funchal. This morning, we will first visit Terreiro da Luta before continuing towards Pico do Areeiro. Standing 1,818 metres above sea level, it is the island’s third-highest peak and offers breathtaking views across the surrounding mountains and valleys.

From here, we descend through the forest towards the coast to see one of Madeira’s last remaining traditional thatched houses. Passing through picturesque villages and along scenic coastal roads, we will reach the island’s easternmost point, where a single viewpoint reveals both the rugged north and the sunlit south coast.

On the northern slope, we stop at Ribeiro Frio, a popular spot for walks and home to clear trout ponds surrounded by the ancient Laurissilva forest, a rare remnant of Madeira’s original landscape. You will have time for lunch in Santana, a charming village famous for its colourful triangular houses.

In the afternoon, we continue to Ponta de Sao Lourenço, where dramatic cliffs and striking rock formations meet the sea. The final stop of the day is Machico, a lovely viewpoint overlooking the bay and its golden sandy beach, before returning to our hotel.

Today is yours to enjoy as you wish. You might choose to relax at your hotel, take a gentle stroll through the town, or explore some of Funchal’s nearby attractions at your own pace.

The city offers plenty of shops, cafés, and scenic spots where you can simply unwind and take in the surroundings. However you decide to spend the day, it’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Madeira in your own way.

Funchal – Lisbon. After our final breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lisbon. Once you have arrived, this will mark the end of the tour. Safe travels!