azores and madeira tours

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About This Tour

Enter an untouched paradise on an adventure through the Azores, the archipelago gems of Portugal. Explore the rim of the Sete Cidades Caldera. Indulge in a traditional cozido das furnas meal, cooked by the heat of the volcanic earth. Descend into Algar do Carvao, the “Cavern of Coal” lava tube, with an expert guide. Enjoy a home-hosted meal during your stay in Sao Miguel Island. Spend 3 nights in a lava stone house. From thermal pools and lush craters to local farms and volcanic cuisine, delve into the culture of Portuguese island life.

Your Tour Includes

• 5 Handpicked Accommodations
• 4 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Off-Road Sete Cidades Experience
• Terra Nostra Botanical Garden & Thermal Pool
• Furnas Valley
• Home-Hosted Dinner

Your Tour at a Glance

12 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Explorations

On Tour Air

Customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $75.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

On tour air included.

• The cost of all internal flights on tour or within an extension are included into the total tour cost on our website and brochures.
• Purchasing internal flights through Collette is now required on tours where applicable.
• This price continues to exclude all round-trip air getting to and from the tour, as well as any additional air segments required to arrive at or depart from an extension.
• The cost displayed is based on availability at the time of booking.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Discover Pico’s exclusive wines.

Descend into Algar do Carvao, an ancient lava tube, with a local expert.

Admire views of Pico Volcano, the highest point in Portugal.

Cultural Experiences:

Spend 3 nights in the eco-friendly lava stone houses of Aldeia da Fonte, Pico Island.

Traverse the entire rim of the Sete Cidades caldera and gaze upon the twin lakes.

Swim in natural volcanic pools.

Culinary Inclusions:

Experience a truly unique cozido das furnas lunch in Furnas valley.

Enjoy a home-hosted meal at a village in the Sao Miguel Island.

• Angra do Heroismo
• Algar do Carvao
• Natural Volcanic Pools
• Choices on Tour
• Volcanic Stone House Stay
• Pico Wine Museum

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour, upgrade your room.

Hotel Upgrade

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Room Upgrade

Hotel-Grand Hotel Acores Atlantico

You may choose to upgrade your room at the Grand Hotel Acores Atlantico in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel to an ocean view room for your first 3-nights of the tour. Take in the sparkling coastline and wake up to an incomparable view.

*Total for all passengers

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Choose between a dip in relaxing waters and a visit to a gorgeous botanical garden. For the first choice, take a dip into the warm, mineral-enriched waters of the Terra Nostra pool. While you soak in the thermal spring waters, take in the gorgeous surrounding views of Terra Nostra Park and the Valley of Furnas. Savor the views in addition to appreciating the history; the pool was built in the 18th century by the American consul to the Azores. Your second choice is to embark on a guided visit to the organic paradise that is the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden. From colorful flowers to palm trees, aquatic plants, bamboo, azaleas, and more, stroll through the garden alongside your guide to see what’s in bloom.

Choose between two museums today. For your first choice, visit the Horta Museum and see Baroque artwork as well as exhibitions of religious paintings that illustrate gold and silversmithing and ivory. Walk through spaces adorned with antique furniture and pianos from the 19th and 20th centuries. Your second choice is a visit to the Scrimshaw Museum, featuring engraved whalebones and teeth from sperm whales. The fascinating collection showcases works by the best scrimshaw artists on the Faial islands. Exhibitions preserve the history of whaling and spirit of adventure that is a core part of the Azores. Make your way through the history of whaling and the scrimshaw artistry at this lovely museum located in one of the most famous sailing Cafes in the world.

Extend your stay in Portugal with 3 nights in Lisbon – the country’s vibrant capital city. See the city like never before – zooming to the famous sights via tuk-tuk and tram! Enjoy ample free time to discover Lisbon’s hidden charms on your own. Take advantage of the city’s savory cuisine, lively energy, and colorful promenades.

• Experience Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city where old traditions intermingle with modern twists. See the city on a lively tuk-tuk tour, zooming through the urban energy from the back seat of an open-air vehicle. Venture through the city's beloved neighborhoods. After becoming acquainted with the area, enjoy the rest of your day at leisure to explore on your own.
• See the city from a different perspective - via tram! With a local guide, hop on and learn to navigate this widespread trolley system! Your guide will take you to Lisbon’s famous sights, including Jeronimo’s Monastery (UNESCO), the Monument to the Discoveries, and the Tower of Belem (UNESCO). Make the most of an afternoon to yourself, perhaps taking the historic tram to the vibrant Alfama district. Gather in the evening for dinner in a local restaurant, getting a taste of some of Portugal’s favorite flavors.
• The day is yours! Take advantage of your day at leisure; maybe stroll along Praça do Comércio, or even make your way to the São Jorge Castle for a sprawling panorama of the city.
• Wish Lisbon goodbye as you depart for home.

Taste your way through the unique, natural flavors of São Miguel. This afternoon, stop at a local gin production facility, where traditional botanical ingredients like rosemary and juniper are blended with local, sustainably sourced seaweed. Drinks and bottles of gin sold here support marine conservation locally, through a donation to the Ocean Azores Foundation. Enjoy a light, farmhouse-style lunch on the beautiful grounds of the facility. Cap off this afternoon excursion with a visit to a pineapple plantation that is more than 100 years old. You’ll see the plantation and where the pineapples grow before getting the chance to sip on an expertly prepared pineapple cocktail.

This morning, see what lies on the western side of Terceira Island. Take in the beautiful coastal views along the way before visiting a banana plantation, where bright green banana leaves and blue skies meet. After sipping on coffee and sampling some bananas or other seasonal fruits, you’ll visit a family-owned cheese factory. The family owns cows that roam freely with plenty of space and grass at a nearby farm, and many say the milk of these “happy cows” leads to a tastier cheese. After learning about the production process and the family history, gather for a light lunch of local products.

Indulge your taste buds and connect with Portuguese cuisine and culture at a home-hosted meal where local wines and petiscos, or Portuguese tapas, will be the start of a great night! Enjoy different wines, liquors and taste some of Portugal's and the Azores iconic foods. Portugal has been producing and exporting wine since the age of the ancient Romans – and it’s only gotten better with time! Relax at this local home and feel as if you are meeting an old friend!

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Grand Hotel Acores Atlantico From $110 per night

Grand Hotel Acores Atlantico

Zenite boutique hotel & spa, hotel do canal, aldeia da fonte nature hotel.

Nights 9-11

Iberostar Selection Lisboa

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Azores Archipelago Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Azores Archipelago. We've got 37 trips going to Azores Archipelago, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 15 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the most tour departures.

37 Azores Archipelago tour packages with 915 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking the Azores

I had a great time hiking everyday in the Azores. There was a great mix of people from N. America and Europe and everyone was super nice. I am already looking at other G Adventure trips to go on next. Make sure to read the full itinerary and be ready to hike and enjoy an adventure!

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Best of the Azores: 7 days in São Miguel

Truly the Hawai of Europe! What a wonderful trip, thank you for putting everything together and your fast replies to our many requests!! We wouldn´t enjoy it as much for sure. Will recommend you to my friends!

Highlights of the Azores

All went well. Isabelle was very giid and knowledgeable and informative Traveling between island I'm the Azores is time consuming but getting us to the airport two and a half hours before the flight was a waste of a morning You seem to be the only operator who visits four islands, please continue. If you're going there you want to see as much as possible

• Walking Adventure

Walking in the Azores

Fantastic holiday, lots to see and take in. Great to see different islands as each had their own character and attributes.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of São Miguel Island

Overall the tour was good. The response coordinating the trip was great. They did change 1 item on the itinerary but it was no problem. I didn't like the location of the hotel. There was nothing close by (shops, restaurants, etc.). This also wasn't a tour where you were with the same group of people. It was more solo where you met different people on different days and no one stayed in the same location so very little group bonding. It was nice on the days I had the rental car so I was able to get out to stores, restaurants and sights. The last day there was a dinner but it was so far from the location of the hotel, I didn't even bother going. Note: the canyoning was well worth it!

São Miguel Active Experience

This was an amazing tour! So well organized from start to finish. We were extremely happy with our accommodation and every single one of our daily tours and each tour guide. Nice small groups of max 6-8 people for each tour. I cannot recommend this tour enough.

Best of Porto & Azores in 9 days

Second time in Portugal and we decided to go on this trip as we´ve been in Algarve and Lisbon before. While Porto and Ponta Delgada were busy we felt lucky to repeat Portugal as we would be missing out tremendously. Hotels again really well located, clean and comfortable. We loved Douro, the guide was so knowledgeable and concerned on how we were feeling. Getting into and out of the flights was fast so not much time lost on airport time. Sao Miguel island was a highlight of our last decade travel for sure and I recommend everyone to take the trip.

Short Break in Azores, Terceira Island, Self-drive

Highlights of Spain and Portugal with Azores

Portugal in Depth with Azores

Azores Escape

São Miguel Soft Hiking

I had great time. The hotel was really good and very close to the center and the tour company Futurismo. Futurismo were nice and professional. The tours were well planned and the guides are super professional as well.

Atlantic Azores

• $100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Azores Cycling

What people love about azores archipelago tours.

The hikes and info were great, even though some last minute changes were necessary due to trail closures. We had a fun, varied group of 13 and the logistics all worked well. The only disappointment was Hotel Zenite on Terceira Island - it was an aging hotel with poor service and should be replaced with a different hotel in the same area.

We had a fantastic time. Exploring the island through jeep tour and kayaking was exhilarating. The whale watching and local food experiences were delightful, and the guides were truly local and knowledgeable. This tour was an unforgettable journey, would take it again, thank yuou.

A very beautiful place with wonderful landscapes, thermal baths, cheese and wine. Our guide Sasha was lovely and very informative as well as delightful to talk too. I enjoyed all the activities but do ensure you were good shoes for the home. recommend that a visit to the cheese factory is added the morning you arrive on Sao Jorge.

Azores Archipelago Tours starting in:

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• Fully Guided (19)
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• Hiking & Trekking (7)
• Self-Guided (7)
• Self Drive (5)
• Small Group (15)
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• 10 Day Tours (11)
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• 3 Week Tours (4)
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• November 2025 (1)

Other Regions in Portugal

• Northern Portugal (63)
• Madeira (42)
• Algarve (34)
• Central Portugal (24)
• Alentejo (9)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (32)
• For Couples (17)
• Seniors (13)

Breadcrumbs

The azores & madeira, what's included.

• Hotel accommodations
• Three excursions
• Flight between Sao Miguel and Madeira
• Breakfast daily
• Round trip airport transfers

* International airfare not included.

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Day-by-Day Itinerary

Welcome to the Azores

Full-Day Eastern Sao Miguel/Furnas Tour

Half-Day Western Sao Miguel/Sete Cidades Tour

Welcome to Madeira

Full-Day Porto Moniz Tour

Free Day in Funchal

Until Next Time

Testimonials.

The Azores and Madeira trip did not disappoint. Both destinations are quite diverse in a variety of ways, yet I appreciate their common cultural thread. It was beneficial to get a taste of both, and to soak in the beauty and pulse of these very special islands! There were jaw dropping moments and also peaceful pauses. I now have a greater understanding of these places and what I would like to see and do for a future return trip. Overall, I loved seeing all of the plant life! Unreal! My excursions were truly fun, informative and exciting, but I also really enjoyed my down time, along with the stays at the chosen hotels. The locations of the hotels were ideal. It was so easy to take off on foot. There was so very much to do in the historic districts right at your fingertips. I appreciated the easy access to the waterfronts, museums, restaurants, botanical gardens and of course, the great people watching in both Ponta Delgada and Funchal. I also felt very safe in these destinations as a female solo traveller. Additionally, the planned airport transfers were an added bonus. Having a lot of these details taken care of for me alleviated a lot of stress. Overall, I definitely recommend this trip to anyone who is at all curious about these islands. Also, I thoroughly enjoyed the overall order and organization of working with Quest Travel. Lorri Hill was above and beyond helpful, and answered all of my questions with efficiency. Many thanks!

Ryan handled our trip to Azores and Madeira with such professionalism and attention to detail. Transfers to and from airports and hotels were on point, flight connections perfect and the tours included were terrific. Even restaurant recommendations were great choices. Thank you Ryan for everything and we look forward to our next trip with you.

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 Prices are per person, double occupancy and based on select departure dates. International airfare is not included. 

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Azores Islands Vacation Packages

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Far off the Portuguese mainland lies a collection of nine islands with stunning mountains rising from the sea and an unusually temperate climate. The Azores archipelago beckons in a whole new way with stunning beauty and charming hospitality. Discover these volcanic islands in the Atlantic that offer a lesser-known destination for an incredible personalized vacation.

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14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,635

Madeira and the Azores are islands of volcanic wonder that abound with natural drama in the midst of the Atlantic Ocean. Escapist and expressive, the islands bring nature, history, culture, wildlife, lava trails and languid beaches all at once, and this luxury vacation tour visits the most inspiring seven islands.  Look forward to a private journey across spectacular landscapes and remote destinations for the very best of the Portuguese archipelagos.

8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,075

Magical and mystical, the Azores stand isolated in the Atlantic as volcanic islands of rare and remarkable beauty. Defined by the abounding wild nature, these islands create a unique family adventure that will engage all ages. Swim with the dolphins, wander underground lava trails, kayak on blue lakes, and explore an untouched archipelago. Handcrafted for families with children aged eight and over, this luxury tour showcases the highlights of Portugal with each day a thrilling expedition into the land that volcanoes created.

A forgotten archipelago in the Atlantic, where volcanoes soar and coastlines enchant. Welcome to the Azores. A land of waterfalls, lava tubes, vineyards, crater lakes, old whaling settlements, and superlative coastlines. Every island showcases unique landscapes, culture, cuisine, and attractions. This is the ultimate handcrafted voyage, exploring seven islands in two weeks: Flores, Corvo, Faial, Pico, Sao Jorge, Terceira, and Sao Miguel.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,667

This indulgent 12-day itinerary immerses you in the splendor of Portugal, from treasures of the mainland to the charm of the Azores Islands. Discover Portugal's past and present, its natural wonders, and man-made delights. Venture in a Jeep to thermal hot springs, enjoy a cruise on the Douro River, and visit some of Portugal's most noteworthy sights.

7  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,909

The Azores have long held sway over the imaginations of mainland travelers, and this 7-day tour of the main island of St. Michael's is designed to introduce to you what is best of this region. With the capital of Ponta Delgada as your headquarters, you will have your choice of thrilling activities each day to ensure your satisfaction on this luxurious and engaging journey through the Azores.

13  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,375

Hand in hand through nature and sailing into the sunset, that’s the style of this romantic tour to the Azores. Escape to three islands and expect solitude, the experience mostly just the two of you and the wonders of a remote archipelago. You are welcomed to the island with stunning volcanoes, craters, waterfalls, beaches, whales, dolphins, and cliffside accommodation. Welcome to a romantic archipelago that is yet to be fully discovered, and 12 nights of bliss in the Atlantic.

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Benefits of Using Zicasso

Dynamic pricing from  $6,248

Witness the mesmerizing scenes of Portugal and have an absolute blast in every iconic Portuguese destination during this exclusive 13-day vacation. Between the beautiful blue stretch of the Azores archipelago and the picturesque streets of Porto, the country is riddled with phenomenal sightseeing and adventure-seeking opportunities. Book your tour today and experience the wonder of Portugal.

Experience grand exploits in one of the world’s most exciting destinations during your custom-tailored Azores adventure tour. The Atlantic archipelago boasts a distinctive culture influenced by a history of Portuguese rule. Fantastical caverns carved by slow-moving lava and crater lakes filled with glassy reflective waters reflect the volcanic origins. Jade forestry and a close connection with friendly passing dolphins speak of a longstanding relationship with land and sea. Abseil down breathtaking cliffs, dive into warm Atlantic waters, and relax in the nutrient-rich soils accompanying steaming thermal baths for the ultimate discovery of the Azores.

Dynamic pricing from  $2,283

Indulge in a dreamlike getaway to Mallorca and the Azores Islands during your custom tailored itinerary to Spain and Portugal. Medieval lanes wind along the sandstone walls of an opulent cathedral as the ocean breeze adds a unique flavor to the vineyards that grow out of the cooled lava. Pine forests drape over mountains, and a lunar landscape brings an impressive ambiance atop a volcanic peak. From basking in the sunlight on a pristine beach to searching for whales as they breach from the cobalt waters, your time in Mallorca and the Azores will offer an unforgettable retreat into Western European island culture, history, and enchantment.

11  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,998

The Azores archipelago brags boundless natural beauty across its marvelous islands, from strips of the lush landscape where wine grapes grow abundantly in the rich volcanic soils to reaches of the sapphire seascape that hug golden shorelines. For 11 days, explore the depth of the Azores and relish unreal experiences on the region’s beloved islands, including Sao Miguel, Faial, Terceira, Flores, and more.

When it comes to you and your significant other to choose a perfect destination for your ultimate romantic getaway, Portugal is the epitome of the ideal vacation. Steeped in history and filled to the brim with beauty and charm, Portugal is a country that captures the heart and never lets it go. The only problem you and your partner may have is choosing just where you will go and what you will want to see next, which is why we have created a 14-day luxury tour that is handcrafted to give you the best of both worlds, stunning city sights, and idyllic island vibes. From a whirlwind week based in Lisbon, soaking up metropolitan moments and culture, to a peaceful, seven-day escape to the serene and sun-dappled shores of the Azores islands, you will be wooed by Portugal’s vibrant nightlife and bustling energy. By the time your romantic getaway is finished, you will not want to return home.

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Azores vs. Madeira: Pick your perfect Portuguese vacation island

With travel restrictions constantly in flux, it can be tough to decide where to take a vacation . It's difficult to plan when you aren't sure which destinations may require you to quarantine upon return -- and things can always change suddenly.

The Portuguese islands of the Azores and Madeira have remained relatively coronavirus-free, however, Portugal is still not open to Americans. Some international travel is being allowed, but Portugal has had to scale back allowing tourists from many spots.

Of course, restrictions can change at any time, so stay informed when booking and traveling.

For those wanting a Portuguese vacation, both sets of islands are very special -- but wildly different from each other. If you'd like to have an island vacation but aren't quite sure where to go, this guide will help you decide whether you should select the Azores or Madeira.

The logistics

This exotic autonomous Portuguese archipelago consists of nine islands located in the mid-Atlantic: Corves, Faial, Flores, Graciosa, Pico, Santa Maria, São Jorge, São Miguel and Terceira. Each island has its own flair and highlights, and most people start by flying to Ponte Delgada (PDL) on São Miguel island, which is the largest and most populated of the nine.

It can take a while to arrive, though. Most flights require a stop in Lisbon . Once you reach Ponte Delgada, you can fly to some of the other islands, though a more affordable way is to take ferries. Just remember that the Atlantic waters can be rough, so consider flying if you tend to get seasick.

The islands are grouped into regions: Eastern (Santa Maria and São Miguel), Central (São Jorge, Pico, Faial), Western (Corvo and Flores) and North Central (Graciosa and Terceira). It might make the most sense to fly between regions, and take ferries to/from islands within the same region.

Consider a trip to the Azores if:

• You'd like a longer trip;
• You love nature;
• You're into getting off-the-beaten-path (many spots are delightfully void of tourists);
• You prefer black sand beaches and volcanic vibes;
• You don't mind cooler weather, clouds or rain; or
• You're not a partier (this isn't a spot with a big club or music scene).

Best times to visit the Azores

Weather in the Azores can be unpredictable, but generally, the best time to visit is from June to September. The rest of the year sees ample amounts of rain and cooler temperatures, though you may get lucky and have sunshine -- it's always a toss-up in the Azores. But for consistently good weather, it's best to head over during the summer months.

Highlights of the Azores

Each island has its own claim to fame, but you can generally find verdant, mountainous scenery on all the islands.

São Miguel is especially lush and green and is probably the island you'll start on. Plan to visit Gorreana, Europe's only tea plantation and swim in some of the island's volcanic thermal pools. Pico (the second-largest island) is the place to visit for wine . Winemakers use the natural landscape of volcanic rocks to protect their vines from wind, salt and rain. Pico is also famous for whale watching.

Visitors to Faial should trek the famous Capelinhos volcano, which overlooks the sea. São Jorge is a quieter island, famous for its São Jorge cheese.

Corvo and Flores are the most remote Azores. Hikers should head to Flores to discover a number of crater lakes and waterfalls, while birdwatchers may prefer Corvo, the smallest island (there may be more bird species than human inhabitants!).

In Terceira, hike the trails of the Monte Brasil natural park and explore the ancient lava tube of Algar do Carvão, part of an extinct volcano. Active travelers will enjoy the island of Graciosa, which has plenty of water sports like scuba diving to nearby shipwrecks, kayaking, fishing, sailing and windsurfing, as well as activities for those wanting to stay on dry land such as cycling, horse riding and hiking.

Where to stay in the Azores

The top TPG hotel pick is the Santa Barbara Eco Beach Hotel , located on the black, sandy shores of São Miguel island. The sustainable hotel features a saltwater pool, a spa located inside the property's greenhouse and seasonal gastronomy options. Room rates start at $87 per night.

Pocinho Bay is an option for those traveling to Pico Island. This unique property offers views of Faial island from its volcanic stone villas, as well as charming spaces like outdoor decks with ocean views or a relaxing area with hammocks. Room rates start at $180 per night.

Related: 11 best hotels for a beach vacation in Portugal

The autonomous region of Madeira consists of two inhabited islands: Madeira and Porto Santo, which sit slightly north of Spain's Canary Islands and west of Morocco . Two uninhabited island groups also belong to the region: the Selvagens (also known as the Savage Islands) and the Desertas. You'll fly into Funchal, Madeira's capital. Arrival to Porto Santo from Madeira takes about two-and-a-half hours via ferry or just 15 to 20 minutes by plane.

Consider a trip to Madeira if:

• You want sunshine and warm temperatures;
• You love white sand beaches ;
• You'd prefer all the amenities and comforts of tourist-catered resorts ; or
• You don't have time for a super long trip.

Best times to visit

Madeira sees the warmest weather and least amounts of rain from May to October, but you'll likely see sunshine and warm temperatures in winter too. The island has a variety of microclimates, meaning you may be able to hit the beach in the south in a t-shirt and bundle up to hike a cloud-covered mountain in the north the very same day. Really, you can enjoy Madeira year-round -- just pack layers, sunblock and a rain jacket just in case.

Highlights of Madeira

Madeira's levadas, or irrigation channels, are incredible spots for walkers and hikers. Running through some of the island's most dramatic scenery, these paths are perfect for travelers wanting to explore the island on foot or by bike.

Funchal, though busy, is a special city to spend some time in -- especially when it comes to unique forms of transportation. Plan to take the cable car up to Monte, admiring mountains bathed in mist and the cityscape and ocean below.

Getting back down, though, is even more of an adventure. Take the toboggan sledges known as Carreiros do Monte, where you sit in a weaved basket chair as two strapping men decked out in white push you down a mile of weaving streets until you're back at sea level once again.

The island beyond Funchal is full of interesting spots to see, from laurel forests to natural swimming pools to massive volcanic rock pillars like the Pico de Ana Ferreira. Rent a car and explore to your heart's content. Don't forget a stop in the tiny town of Santana (this made our top villages in Portugal list) to see the colorful, triangular houses.

While most of the beaches on Maderia have black sand or volcanic rock, Porto Santo is the island of choice for golden sands. Don't miss Porto Santo's gorgeous viewpoint Miradouro das Flores. To get a bit off the tourist track, consider a day trip to the Desertas islands, the closest you'll get to a deserted island adventure in Europe .

Where to stay in Madeira

For the ultimate Madeira luxury, stay at Belmond Reid's Palace , which is perched on a cliff in Funchal. From the luminous rooms to the cliffside pool, the property is perfect for a resort-style, pampered escape. Room rates start at $384 per night.

If you'd prefer a beachfront, white sand luxury getaway, the Pestana Porto Santo boasts 98,000 square feet of gardens, two massive swimming pools and rooms with sea views (some even come with private pools). Room rates start at $131 per night.

Related: 7 reasons your next vacation should be in Portugal

Bottom line

Both the Azores and Madeira are stunning island destinations in Portugal for a vacation. If you prefer nature, greenery, an off-the-beaten-path adventure and don't mind rain or cooler temperatures, pick the Azores. If you'd prefer sunshine, golden sands, luxury amenities and a quirky cable car/toboggan experience, consider Madeira, including the beachy island of Porto Santo. Either way, neither set of Portuguese volcanic islands will disappoint.

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Madeira & the Azores Tours

Visit subtropical Madeira and five volcanic islands from the three geographical groups of the Azores: São Miguel (Eastern), Terceira, Faial & Pico (Central) & Flores (Western).

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Natural Landscapes & Gardens of Madeira & the Azores 2024

• Stephen Ryan
• Craig Lidgerwood

Explore Madeira and the volcanic archipelago of the Azores which are a geological hotspot supporting a wealth of flora and fauna including over 25 species of whales and dolphins. Read more

• Region: Madeira & the Azores, Portugal
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Natural Landscapes & Gardens of Madeira & the Azores 2025

• John Patrick
• Inge Pullar
• Status: open

Best of Lisbon and Madeira

Enjoy 6 Nights in Madeira and Lisbon Tour Both Madeira and Lisbon have been awarded leading destinations, in this 7-day tour you get…

• Trip Type Cultural and Sightseeing , Gastronomy , Independent Travel , Walking Tour
• Activities Gastronomy , Walking
• Group Size No size limit - No size limit
• Reviews 0 Reviews
• Locations Câmara de Lobos , Funchal , Lisbon , Madeira Island , Santana , Sintra
• Trip Duration 7 Day(s) 6 Night(s)
• Trip Outline
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Adventure yourself in Lisbon's mix of modern and traditional culture, food and wine experience and then relax in the stunning Island of Madeira, the Atlantic's pearl. Both Madeira and Lisbon have been awarded leading destinations for a reason. In this 7 day tour you will get to delight all your senses and get the most out of your visit. 

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Itineraries

Arrival to lisbon.

Bem-vindo a Lisboa! The stunning capital city of Portugal and one of the most charismatic and vibrant cities in Europe awaits to charm you with its rich history, blissed year-round climate and romantic nostalgia.

After arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel and you will have the rest of the day for leisure.

Lisbon Half Day City Tour

Today you will have a unique glimpse into the fascinating history of ancient Lisbon. Leading you through this authentic neighborhood, we take you further into the local history, the roots of Fado song, the architecture, and the city culture while you discover hidden Portuguese food treasures.

Full Day Tour: Sintra and Cascais

After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel. Today you will be visiting the idyllic town of Sintra. Here, you will be able to visit the famous historical sites, like Quinta da Regaleira, a 19th Garden, where. You’ll explore it’s hidden cave passageways, secretive spiral stairs leading down to symbolic wells.

After lunch, you will explore the Coast of the sunny town of Cascais.

Transfer to Madeira

Transfer to the airport for a quick flight to Funchal in Madeira. When you arrive, you will be taken to your hotel and the rest of the day will be at your leisure.

Madeira Island: Full Day Tour Câmara de Lobos

Today's full day tour is to the Western part of the island of Madeira. We begin by taking the Estrada Monumental to Câmara de Lobos. We then cross the island in a south to north direction passing along the steep coastline until we arrive in Porto Moniz where lunch will be served. On our return to Funchal we will pass through São Roque do Faial, Ribeiro Frio (to visit the trout fishery), Terreiro da Luta and onto the Monte before returning to our hotel in the early evening.

Full Day Tour Santana

Today we depart Funchal in the direction of Camacha. Camacha is the center of the handcrafts made of canes (vimes). Here we make a brief stop and then continue to Poiso and Pico da Arieiro, second highest point in Madeira. We continue north to Faial and stop for lunch on the way to Santana, to view the traditions and cultural essences of the region; like the typical A-frame houses of Santana. We return to Funchal late afternoon passing through Machico.

Our final morning in Madeira will be at leisure, before making your way to the airport for the return flight home. We bid adeus to the beautiful Island of Madeira and hope that on the flight back you reminisce of the good times that you had on the trip.

• Round trip transfers from airport to hotels
• 6 nights at centrally located four-star hotels
• Full American breakfast daily at the hotels
• Private tours
• Van with A/C in all tours and transfers (except walking city tour)
• English speaking guide in all tours and transfers
• 4 Lunches with drinks
• Food sampling in walking city tour; snack in local restaurant

Airline fair taxes and single supplement not included.

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Travel Knowing That Your Azores  Adventure is covered.

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Madeira Vacations

Book your trip to madeira, portugal. get started below., our favorite trips to madeira.

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Welcome to Madeira

Dubbed the island of eternal spring, Madeira is the perfect setting for anyone looking to reconnect with nature and experience the extraordinary. Boasting mild weather and equally mild ocean temperatures year-round, Madeira is a unique destination offering an endless array of activities for you to discover the island’s stunning natural beauty by land or by sea. Go hiking and biking through the island’s extensive natural reserve and discover stunning coastal cliffs with mesmerizing views, cascading waterfalls and lush laurel forests protected by UNESCO. Explore the surrounding seas by kayak, sail boat, jet-ski or surf board, or explore what lies beneath these pristine blue waters with a snorkel or scuba diving excursion.

Discover the charming port city of Funchal, a cruise-ship hub and a historical and colorful city teeming with restaurants, cafés and friendly locals. Explore the narrow streets paved in black and white stones, explore the city’s colorful and lively markets, and indulge in delicious food. Try the local fish, savour bolo do caco and sip poncha as you people-watch under the sunny skies of Madeira. Enjoy the thrill of going down a hill on a traditional wicker toboggan and admire the island’s typical houses and architecture.

With its exquisite landscapes, delicious cuisine, distinctive culture and traditions and endless opportunities for adventure, it's easy to see why this dreamy island was elected  "World's Leading Island Destination" in 2015 and 2016 by the World Travel Awards. 

Escape, unwind and leave all your worries behind; we invite you to experience the best of Madeira!

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