Funchal, the lively capital of Madeira, offers more than just stunning views and famous wine. Its walking tours reveal the island’s diverse landscapes and charming streets with ease and insight. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure along dramatic coastlines or a short stroll exploring historic sites, Funchal is perfect for exploring on foot. We particularly like tours that combine nature walks with local culture — like the Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch, which offers a comprehensive glimpse of the island’s rugged east coast, or the Fanal / Assobiadores – Levada Walk, renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Laurissilva forest. If you want to soak in Funchal’s urban charm, the Guided Walking Tour with Tastings makes for an authentic, flavorful exploration. Each of these experiences provides a different way to see and feel Madeira’s unique character.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best walking tours in Funchal covers a variety of experiences: full-day scenic trips along Madeira’s east coast, immersive levada walks in lush forests, challenging high-altitude hikes, and relaxed city tours with tastings. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or local cuisine, you’ll find options that suit your interests and fitness level. Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you decide which fits your travel style best.
1. Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch
At number 1 on our list, this Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch offers a full-day immersion into the island’s dramatic scenery. For around $53.68 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring coastal cliffs, traditional villages, and lush forests with a small group of no more than 8 people. The tour begins with visits to Santana’s famous thatched houses and the craft-making heritage of Camacha village, giving you a taste of local life.
A highlight is the scenic walk along the levadas — narrow canal ways carved into the landscape that bring water into the island’s lush interior. This walk offers stunning viewpoints of the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Pico do Arieiro. You’ll also visit a trout farm, providing insight into Madeira’s agricultural traditions. The tour includes a delicious 3-course lunch, wine included, at Grutas do Faial Island, making it a great value for those seeking both adventure and hearty local cuisine.
Tour guide Tony is praised for his knowledge and friendly manner, making the long day enjoyable and informative. The only caveat is that the levada walk can be muddy, so proper footwear is essential. This tour is perfect for those wanting a balance of natural beauty, cultural sights, and good food in one day.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, well-organized tour ideal for travelers wanting a full taste of Madeira’s eastern landscapes with expert guidance.
2. Fanal / Assobiadores – Levada Walk
Ranking high with a 4.7/5 rating from 91 reviews, the Fanal / Assobiadores – Levada Walk is a must for nature lovers. For €51, this 8-hour tour takes you into the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO site celebrated for its moss-covered trees and peaceful ambiance. The walk begins on the vast Paul da Serra plateau, an expansive high-altitude area offering sweeping views and a sense of remote wilderness.
The trail leads you through some of Madeira’s most impressive viewpoints, with the chance to see mystical Fanal Forest, famous for its fantastical tree silhouettes often shrouded in fog. The landscape’s grandeur makes it one of the best spots on the island to appreciate the diverse endemic flora and the quiet majesty of untouched nature. This tour is especially suited to hikers who want to experience Madeira’s lush, green heart and enjoy leisurely walks amid towering trees and panoramic vistas.
Excellent for nature enthusiasts, this walk provides both scenic beauty and tranquil solitude. The guide shares insights into the forest’s ecology and history, enriching the experience. The only potential downside is the weather — fog and rain can obscure views, but that adds to the mystical atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those seeking a peaceful, immersive experience in Madeira’s UNESCO Laurissilva forest, perfect for nature lovers and hikers alike.
3. The Lakes Walk
For those who crave a more magical woodland experience, the The Lakes Walk offers a 4.5-hour trek through Madeira’s lush landscapes, earning a perfect 5-star rating from 9 reviews. The walk features the sounds of flowing water, singing birds, and the scent of the forest, making it feel almost like stepping into a fairy tale. You’ll explore small ponds and lagoons with stunning views over the Rabaçal Valley, along with visits to a beautiful waterfall and the Wind Lagoon.
The route winds through diverse terrain, from mossy forest to open viewpoints, with enough variety to satisfy both casual walkers and more active travelers. The highlight is the sense of tranquility and immersion in nature, with the chance to photograph the mystical waterfalls and peaceful lakes. This shorter walk is ideal if you want a taste of Madeira’s natural beauty without a full-day commitment, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Guide-led, with a small group size, the tour ensures personalized attention and interesting commentary about the landscape and local ecosystem. The walk’s serene atmosphere makes it a memorable escape from the bustling city.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful, shorter walk filled with scenic water features and lush greenery.
4. Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo Madeira Island Walk
Currently, the Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo Madeira Island Walk is on hold due to recent wildfires, but it’s worth mentioning for its usual reputation. This 8-hour guided trek would normally take you to Madeira’s highest peaks, with panoramic views stretching across the island’s rugged terrain. The route features navigating through natural tunnels and experiencing a wide variety of endemic flora, making it one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes on the island.
Starting from Pico do Arieiro, the walk would include a roughly 4.75-hour trek to Pico Ruivo, celebrated for its breathtaking vistas and dramatic mountain scenery. The tour also includes stops for refreshment at local cafés, giving you time to soak in the surroundings. This experience is suited for fit hikers comfortable with altitude and demanding terrain, offering a memorable sense of achievement.
Guests typically rave about the unrivaled views, making it clear why this route is highly popular when open. The current closure is unfortunate, but the alternative options in our list still promise fantastic scenery.
Bottom Line: An iconic, high-altitude hike for adventurous travelers who want to summit Madeira’s highest points, weather permitting.
5. Funchal: Guided Walking Tour with Tastings
If a city stroll combined with local flavors appeals more, the Funchal: Guided Walking Tour with Tastings is an excellent choice. This 3-hour tour, with a 4.8/5 rating, is perfect for those wanting a relaxed pace and a taste of Madeira’s culinary traditions.
Starting at the Colégio dos Jesuítas, the tour takes you through historic sites like Funchal City Hall and the Cathedral, with plenty of photo stops and insights into Madeira’s role in the Age of Discovery. The tour makes several stops for tastings of local sweets, Poncha (a traditional sugarcane spirit), and regional snacks at a 19th-century sweet factory and a traditional tavern.
An engaging guide shares stories about the city’s architecture and history, making it more than just a walk. The tour’s highlights include sampling Madeira’s culinary delights and learning about local traditions, making it ideal for foodies or first-time visitors. The small-group format ensures a personal experience, though the tour’s focus on food and culture means it’s less suitable for those looking for extensive sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in Madeira’s culinary scene and historic city streets, with a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
6. Fanal Forest Walk & Meal
Finally, the Fanal Forest Walk & Meal offers a 7-hour immersive experience into Madeira’s mystical Fanal forest. Priced at $100 per person, it combines nature and local cuisine in one memorable day. Known for its strange, unstructured trees and fog-shrouded silhouettes, Fanal creates a photogenic landscape that inspires many travelers.
The walk explores the Laurissilva forest, where towering trees with twisted branches create enchanting scenes. After the walk, you’ll enjoy a typical espetada meal (grilled meat skewers), giving you a taste of local culinary traditions. The landscape’s unspoiled beauty and the chance to experience Madeira’s unique flora make this a favorite for those seeking a peaceful, scenic experience.
Because of the longer duration and focus on the landscape heritage, this tour best suits nature enthusiasts looking for a combination of hiking and local food. The scenery is especially dramatic in foggy conditions, adding to the forest’s mystical aura.
Bottom Line: A great choice for lovers of nature and photography who want an authentic, scenic day surrounded by Madeira’s iconic forests and local flavors.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Funchal
When selecting the right tour, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend exploring. If you’re after a full-day adventure with diverse scenery and cultural sights, the Madeira East Island Tour offers excellent value. For immersive nature experiences, the Fanal / Assobiadores provides a peaceful retreat into Madeira’s UNESCO forest.
If you prefer shorter, scenic walks, the Lakes Walk delivers a magical water-filled landscape without a full-day commitment. For more challenging hikes, keep an eye on openings for the Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo when available, or choose the Fanal Forest Walk & Meal for a combination of scenery and local cuisine.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and group size. Consider your interests — whether that’s geography, food, or cultural sights — and pick a tour that matches your pace and curiosity.
From rugged mountain hikes to leisurely city strolls, Madeira’s walking tours offer a wonderful way to connect with the island’s landscapes and local culture. Whether you’re seeking panoramic mountain vistas, lush forests, or a taste of Funchal’s historic streets, there’s something to fit every traveler. We encourage you to book in advance to ensure a spot on your preferred tour and enjoy a memorable Madeira experience.