Madeira’s reputation as a wine lover’s paradise isn’t just hype. The island’s unique climate and volcanic soil produce wines that are rich, complex, and unlike anything you’ve tasted before. Whether you prefer a leisurely tasting at a historic winery or an off-road adventure with panoramic views, Madeira offers a variety of excellent wine tours that showcase its vinicultural treasures. Some tours combine wine with local cuisine, while others pair the tasting with scenic drives or boat trips. For a well-rounded experience, the Eating Madeira! Wine & Food Tour in Funchal is a top choice for foodies who want to sample both Madeira wines and local flavors. Meanwhile, the Open Roof Jeep Tour offers a fun, immersive way to see the island’s landscapes while enjoying wine and learning about the flora and history.
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive day, the Full-Day Madeira Wine Tour with Cable Car and Lunch takes you through vineyards, scenic viewpoints, and regional food. And for those who want a truly intimate experience, a private weekend wine tasting in São Vicente can be tailored to your interests. Whatever your style, Madeira’s diverse wine tours promise memorable flavors and scenic moments. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of our top picks.
1. Eating Madeira! Wine & Food Tour in Funchal
At number one on our list, the Eating Madeira! Wine & Food Tour in Funchal combines culinary exploration with wine tasting in a way that captures the essence of Madeira’s vibrant food scene. This 3.5-hour guided walking tour is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy local flavors while learning about the island’s gastronomic traditions. The tour includes nine stops at restaurants and markets, where you’ll sample regional delights—think fresh seafood, local cheeses, and traditional snacks—paired with six varieties of Madeira wine. The guide shares insights into Madeira’s history and culinary evolution, adding depth to every bite and sip.
What makes this experience stand out is its intimate setting—small groups ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Guests consistently praise Roberto and Christina for their knowledge and friendliness, with reviews highlighting how much they learned about Madeira’s food and drink. The Mercado dos Lavradores farmer’s market kick-starts the tour, showcasing exotic fruits and vibrant flowers that are unique to the island. The tour’s combination of food, wine, and cultural stories makes it ideal for visitors who want a full sensory experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers unbeatable value for those seeking a comprehensive, local-driven introduction to Madeira’s culinary scene, with plenty of tastings and cultural insights.
2. Open Roof Jeep Tour with Madeira Wine Tasting
For a more adventurous approach, the Open Roof Jeep Tour with Madeira Wine Tasting ranks highly. This 6-hour excursion combines off-road exploration of the island’s scenic mountains and valleys with a relaxed tasting of Henriques & Henriques wines. The open-air Jeep makes the experience lively and flexible, allowing you to enjoy unobstructed views of Madeira’s lush landscape—think terraced vineyards, eucalyptus forests, and dramatic cliffs.
The tour is led by friendly guides who introduce you to the island’s flora, local history, and the winemaking process. The visit includes a stop at a local vineyard, where you get to enjoy a tasting of some of the island’s finest wines. The highlight is the scenic drive that offers sweeping vistas you’ll want to photograph. Many reviewers mention how fun and informative their guides are, and the experience is well-suited for those who want a mix of nature, culture, and wine.
Bottom Line: It’s an exhilarating way to see Madeira’s natural beauty while savoring local wines, perfect for travelers who like a little adventure.
3. Madeira: Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting & Skywalk
At number three, the Madeira: Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting & Skywalk offers a blend of scenic exploration and wine education. This 4-hour tour takes you through a working vineyard, where a professional enologist guides you through the winemaking process and discusses the different grape varieties unique to Madeira. You’ll visit the Camara de Lobos wine area and enjoy a tasting of wines directly at the source, giving you an authentic experience.
A standout feature is the visit to Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest sea cliff, which provides spectacular views that are well worth the short stop. The tour also includes a visit to São Vicente, where you get to explore local wine cellars and enjoy a guided tasting. The small-group format ensures a more personal experience, and reviewers note how knowledgeable and approachable the guides are. This tour appeals to those interested in the vineyard process as much as in the tasting itself, with a good mix of scenic views and wine education.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts who want a guided, behind-the-scenes look at Madeira’s vineyards along with breathtaking scenery.
4. From Funchal: Madeira Wine Tour, Cable Car & Typical Lunch
For around $194, the Madeira Wine Tour with Cable Car and Lunch offers a full-day deep dive into the island’s viniculture and landscapes. This tour is perfect for those who want a leisurely day combining scenic views, cultural highlights, and regional cuisine. It starts with a guided drive through vineyards and scenic countryside, including a ride on the Fajã dos Padres cable car—an experience that offers stunning views over the coast.
You’ll visit a wine cellar, where a professional guides you through the tasting of Madeira wines, and enjoy a traditional Madeiran lunch featuring local ingredients. The day continues with visits to the town of São Vicente, famous for its volcanic landscapes and wine cellars, and includes stops at scenic viewpoints. The itinerary balances sightseeing with ample wine tasting, making it suitable for those who want to combine culture with a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: This full-day tour delivers a thorough Madeira experience, ideal for travelers seeking a mix of scenery, wine, and regional food in a single outing.
5. Madeira: Cabo Girao, Wines Experience and Dolphins Watching
Number five on our list is the Cabo Girao, Wines Experience, and Dolphins Watching. This 8-hour adventure combines wine tasting with a coastal cruise, making it a great choice for those who want a multi-layered day. The journey includes a visit to the impressive Cabo Girao sea cliff, known for its suspended glass platform, offering breathtaking views.
A visit to a local winery, such as Quinta do Barbusano, features a tasting session with regional wines. The marine portion of the tour is equally exciting: a catamaran cruise along the coast where you can spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. It appeals to travelers who want to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty, with the bonus of wine and a chance to see marine wildlife. Reviewers mention the scenic views and the well-organized itinerary, making it a well-rounded day out.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want scenic views, wine, and marine life all in one—ideal for families or groups seeking variety.
6. Funchal: Pirate Ship Cruise with Wine and Honey Cake Tasting
For something uniquely fun, the Pirate Ship Cruise with Wine and Honey Cake is a 3-hour voyage aboard a replica of Columbus’s Santa Maria. This experience combines the thrill of sailing on a pirate-themed ship with tasting Madeira wine and honey cake—an iconic regional sweet. The cruise offers scenic views of the south coast, with ample opportunities to spot marine life like dolphins, whales, and turtles.
The boat trip creates a relaxed, playful atmosphere, perfect for families or travelers wanting a memorable, lighthearted experience. The focus is on fun and flavor, with a short but lively cruise that’s suitable for all ages. Reviews praise the ship’s authenticity and the lively crew who share stories and keep the atmosphere engaging.
Bottom Line: A laid-back, family-friendly option that combines maritime adventure with regional treats, ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet unique experience.
7. Madeira: Private Weekend Wine Tasting in São Vicente
Number seven, the Private Weekend Wine Tasting in São Vicente, offers a personalized and relaxed setting for wine lovers. This 3-hour private experience can be tailored to your interests, with a focus on the local wines of the São Vicente area. You’ll enjoy panoramic views from Pico da Cova, explore remarkable rock formations, and learn about various grapes and wine styles produced locally.
The trip’s highlight is the direct interaction with a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into the history and production of Madeira wines. Reviewers mention how comfortable and intimate the experience feels, with a focus on quality and education. It’s best suited for those seeking a private, flexible, and in-depth session with regional wines.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts who prefer an exclusive, educational experience combined with spectacular scenery.
8. Funchal: H.M. Borges Winery Private Tour and Wine Tasting
The H.M. Borges Winery Private Tour offers a focused, 1.5-hour exploration of one of Madeira’s most historic family wineries. You’ll learn about their winemaking process and see beautiful display rooms decorated with artwork by Max Römer. The private setting allows for a personalized tasting of six wines, paired with local delicacies, making it perfect for small groups or couples.
The tour emphasizes history and tradition, with a relaxed pace that allows plenty of time to savor the wines and ask questions. Many reviewers appreciate the intimate atmosphere and the knowledge shared by the guide. This experience is best suited for those who want a quick, high-quality introduction to Madeira’s wine heritage.
Bottom Line: A concise, private tasting experience that offers depth and quality, perfect for short visits or wine enthusiasts wanting expert insights.
9. Madeira: Unforgettable Sunset with Local Wine & Charcuterie
Rounding out our list is the Unforgettable Sunset with Local Wine and Charcuterie. This private 4.5-hour tour is designed for those seeking a romantic or peaceful end to their Madeira day. It includes a scenic 4×4 drive through backroads, forest trails, and coastal viewpoints, culminating in a sunset viewing. The highlight is the optional picnic of local wine and charcuterie, served in a quiet, picturesque spot.
The tour is flexible, with pickup and drop-off included, minimizing stress. It’s suited for travelers who value comfort, scenery, and a personalized experience. Reviewers mention how well it captures the island’s natural beauty while providing a relaxing atmosphere for enjoying local wine and snacks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups looking for a private, scenic sunset experience paired with regional wine and local flavors.
How to Choose the Right Madeira Wine Tour
Picking the best wine tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you love food and want a lively, comprehensive introduction to Madeira’s cuisine, the Eating Madeira! Wine & Food Tour in Funchal is hard to beat. Looking for a fun outdoor adventure? The Open Roof Jeep Tour offers scenic views and a hands-on experience. For a more relaxed, cultural experience, the Full-Day Vineyards and Cable Car Tour balances sightseeing and tasting.
Budget-conscious travelers can opt for shorter private tastings like the H.M. Borges Winery, while those seeking romance or a special occasion should consider the Sunset Tour. Keep in mind seasonal availability and book early to secure your spot — many tours fill up quickly during peak months.
Final Thoughts
From lively food and wine explorations to scenic jeep rides and intimate tastings, Madeira offers a wide range of wine tours tailored to different styles and interests. For a comprehensive introduction, the Eating Madeira! Tour is a top choice. If you prefer an active day with stunning views, the Jeep Tour delivers. And for lovers of quiet, romantic moments, the sunset experience rounds everything off beautifully.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise a delicious way to discover Madeira’s unique wine culture—so book early and prepare to enjoy some of Portugal’s finest island wines.