Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch. Whether you’re after a scenic backdrop, culture, or a leisurely boat trip, this city offers diverse options that cater to different interests and budgets. I particularly recommend the Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch for its combination of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and a hearty three-course meal. It’s an ideal way to experience Madeira’s rugged landscape while enjoying authentic local dishes. Plus, the tour’s small-group format ensures a more personal experience—something you don’t always get on larger buses.
If your idea of a perfect lunch includes relaxing by the sea, the Funchal: Full-Day Fajãs Route Madeira Coastal Tour w/ Lunch could be your best bet. It combines a scenic boat ride with opportunities for snorkeling or paddle sports, finishing with fresh local fare. Alternatively, for a taste of Madeira’s wine culture paired with traditional cuisine, the São Vicente Vineyard Visit With Traditional Lunch offers a shorter, more intimate experience that highlights the island’s northern vineyards and regional flavors.
1. Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch
At number one, this full-day tour covers Madeira’s east coast, blending stunning natural landscapes with cultural visits and a delicious meal. The tour includes stops at notable villages like Santana—famous for its thatched triangular houses—and Camacha, known for its wickerwork craft. What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to walk along the levadas—irrigation channels that traverse the island’s mountain scenery—offering a tangible taste of Madeira’s rural heritage.
The highlight is the 3-course lunch with local wine, served after exploring Ribeira Frio and Pico do Arieiro. The guide’s knowledge and the small-group setup (max 8 people) make for a personalized, engaging day. Guests consistently praise the well-organized itinerary and the diversity of scenery, from lush Laurissilva forest to traditional villages. One reviewer called it “an excellent guide Tony made our day remarkable and pleasant,” emphasizing how much the guide’s local expertise enhances the experience.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive day of sightseeing, walking, and tasting Madeira’s best local cuisine, this tour offers excellent value for roughly $54, and it’s perfect for active travelers eager for a deep dive into the island’s culture and landscape.
2. Funchal: Full-Day Fajãs Route Madeira Coastal Tour w/ Lunch
For travelers who prefer a more relaxed day with spectacular sea views, the Fajãs Route is a great choice. This tour lasts about 9 hours and includes a boat trip along Madeira’s southwestern coast, which is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and volcanic formations. You’ll have about an hour of free time at Paúl do Mar, a charming seaside village where you can soak in the scenery or grab a quick snack.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity for snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking, making it ideal for active travelers who want to combine outdoor sea activities with a scenic lunch. The tour’s highlights include observing the stone terraces and volcanic landscapes, which showcase Madeira’s geologic richness. The boat ride offers a refreshing perspective on the island’s coast, with plenty of photo opportunities.
While it’s a longer day, the focus on sea adventures and fresh seafood makes it a unique way to experience Madeira’s maritime side. It’s best suited for those who enjoy hands-on activities and want a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Bottom line: For around 9 hours of sea, sun, and scenic beauty, this tour offers a lively and engaging day out, especially for water lovers or those needing a break from land-based sightseeing.
3. São Vicente Vineyard Visit With Traditional Lunch
If you’re interested in Madeira’s wine culture combined with a delicious traditional meal, the Vineyard Visit in São Vicente offers a compact, highly-rated experience. This 4.5-hour tour takes you to the north of the island, where stunning views and natural surroundings dominate.
The highlight is the guided tour of a top vineyard, where you can learn about Madeira’s renowned wines—especially the famed Madeira wine, known for its longevity and distinctive flavors. Paired with a traditional lunch of ‘Espetada’ (a skewer of beef grilled over open flames), you get a true taste of local culinary customs. The natural scenery of high mountains and lush surroundings provides a peaceful backdrop for the day.
Guests frequently mention the extremely positive reviews (ratings of 4.7/5), emphasizing the knowledgeable guides and the memorable wine tasting. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting to combine culture with authentic food and drink in a shorter, more relaxed outing.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for wine lovers, foodies, or those seeking a shorter, scenic experience with a focus on Madeira’s northern vineyards and regional specialties.
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in Funchal
Choosing among these options depends on your interests, fitness level, and the kind of experience you want. If you love a full day of scenery, walking, and cultural sight-seeing, the Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch offers excellent value and variety.
For a more leisurely day that combines outdoor sea activities with spectacular views, the Fajãs Route is perfect—especially if you enjoy snorkeling or paddle sports. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the shorter, focused Vineyard Tour in São Vicente for its combination of wine tasting and local cuisine.
When booking, consider the time of year—summer months are ideal for boat trips and outdoor activities, while cooler seasons are better suited for land-based tours. Early booking is recommended during peak season to secure your preferred date and time.
Funchal offers a surprising variety of lunch experiences, from hearty island tours with local dishes to relaxing coastal cruises and wine tastings. Whether you’re after a full immersion into Madeira’s landscapes and culture or simply want to enjoy a delicious meal with a view, these options provide a great starting point. For active travelers, the levada walk is a highlight; for those seeking relaxation, the coastal or vineyard tours are perfect.
No matter which you choose, booking early will help ensure you get the most out of your trip. Madeira’s culinary and scenic treasures are waiting—so pick your perfect match, and enjoy a memorable taste of this stunning island.