We fly to Funchal Airport near Santa Cruz. Our friendly, Englishspeaking tour guide welcomes us at the airport. We travel by a modern coach to our exclusive 4-star hotel VILA GALE SANTA CRUZ, where we will spend the entire week in comfort.
After a leisurely breakfast, we first drive to Pico dos Barcelos. From this viewing platform, we have a breathtaking panoramic view of Funchal with the deserted islands lying in the background. We continue inland to Eira do Serrado. Here, at an altitude of 3,600 ft, we enjoy the view of the village of Curral das Freiras, which is picturesquely framed by the central mountain massif. After visiting this idyllic village, we head to the famous Cristo Rei statue, Madeira‘s landmark. It is similar to the world-famous statues in Rio de Janeiro and Lisbon, but was completed before these were built. The statue venerates Christ the King and sits enthroned at Ponta do Garajau on a rocky outcrop on the coast – this ideal photo opportunity will delight you.
Those who wish can enjoy a natural paradise of the highest order today. On a fascinating, optional full-day excursion, you will discover the enchanting east of the island. Your first destination is Pico do Arieiro, the third highest peak on Madeira. Here, you have a beautiful view stretching all the way to the Atlantic. Afterwards, the journey continues into the green heart of the island, the Laurisilva Forest (UNESCO World Natural Heritage). This laurel forest, covering around 58 mi², is home to unique plant and animal species. Our next highlight is Santana. The traditional houses with thatched roofs and picturesque gardens are among the most popular postcard motifs. We then make our way to Porto da Cruz, a fishing village with an old sugar mill and views of the waves crashing against the impressive black volcanic rock ‘Penha d’Águia’. To round off this dreamlike day, we reach Ponta de São Lourenço, the easternmost part of the island, where wild cliffs and an endless blue ocean await us.
Today we explore Funchal, the enchanting capital of Madeira. On a stroll, we discover the beautiful gardens and the famous cathedral ‘Sé Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Assunção’, which was built in the unique Portuguese Baroque style. Afterwards, we go to the city market, where colourful and fragrant flower stalls welcome us. Local fruit and vegetable vendors are also placed around a central courtyard. At the foot of the stairs is the fish market, where we admire the typical espada fish. We continue our walk through the picturesque old town alleys and spot many artistic details such as painted doors and sculptures. Before returning to our 4-star hotel, we stop at a wine cellar and taste a glass of the world-famous Madeira wine.
Another highlight of Madeira is the impressive west. We are happy to take you there on an unforgettable, optional full-day excursion. The drive along the dreamlike coast first leads to the small, charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. During a leisurely stroll through the bay, you will notice the brightly painted boats gently rocking in the water. We enjoy the scent of the sea, salt, and the aroma of freshly made Poncha, Madeira’s traditional drink. Afterwards, we drive to Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe. A glass skywalk offers a fascinating view of the cliffs – simply spectacular. After a short break in Ribeira Brava, we head into the interior of the island to Encumeada. Here, a phenomenal view of both the north and south coasts awaits us. Next, our journey takes us to Porto Moniz, where we stroll along the seafront promenade and watch the waves flow into volcanic rock pools. Finally, we drive along the north coast and stop at the famous viewpoint in the bay of Câmara de Lobos Seixal with the wonderful Bridal Veil Waterfall ‘Véu da Noiva‘.
Madeira, the enchanting island of eternal spring, is famous for its breathtaking nature and its impressive variety of flowers and plants. Today, we will discover this diversity during our visit to the worldfamous Botanical Garden of Madeira (admission included). Covering a vast area of eight hectares, this unique green space offers a large selection of impressive tree species and ornamental shrubs. As early as the 18ᵗʰ century, the idea arose to create a botanical garden on the island. In 1960, this wish was finally fulfilled. Today, a visit to the garden is considered an essential part of any trip to Madeira. This natural paradise is home to more than 2,000 exotic plants originating from all parts of the world. Some of them are endangered in their native countries. During an informative guided tour, we will learn all about the plants that have been carefully cultivated here. On a leisurely stroll through the garden, we will also enjoy the colourful flowers, the lush foliage, and the magnificent view of the green coast and the blue World-famous Botanical Garden shimmering waters of the Atlantic.
Today we can enjoy the amenities of the 4-star hotel or stroll through he charming lanes of Funchal. Alternatively, an unforgettable highlight of any trip to Madeira awaits you: Discover whales and dolphins up close on a unique, optional boat excursion. Off the coast of Madeira, you can observe the giants of the seas in their natural habitat. In the clear and calm waters around the island, a variety of different marine mammal species and turtles frolic. Most commonly seen are the common dolphin, the bottlenose dolphin, the sperm whale, the pilot whale, the Bryde‘s whale, and the loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta. This fascinating wildlife will give you unique memories for a lifetime.
Today it is time to say farewell to the dream island of Madeira and our wonderful 4-star hotel in Santa Cruz. A fascinating, eventful week full of unforgettable moments comes to an end. We are heading to the airport and flying back home, full of enthusiasm.
Explorer package: The package includes the two full-day excursions ‘Pico do Arieiro, Laurisilva Forest (World Heritage), Santana & Ponta de São Lourenço‘ and ‘Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, Porto Moniz, Seixal & Bridal Veil Waterfall‘ as well as the boat trip to whales, dolphins & sea turtles: only £169 p. p.
Solo travellers are warmly welcome – single room surcharge: £449 p. p. (subject to availability)
The hotel VILA GALÉ SANTA CRUZ is located in the city of the same name, Santa Cruz, directly by the sea, on a pebble beach and only 15 minutes from the centre of the capital Funchal. A visit to the hotel allows guests to get to know a little of everything this wonderful island has to offer.
The hotel features 262 appealing rooms. It also offers two restaurants, two bars, an outdoor pool and a spa with a heated indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath, fitness room and massage rooms. The unique atmosphere is the result of modern furnishings and minimalist architecture.
You will stay in a modern and comfortable room. The facilities include, among others, a bathroom with WC and hairdryer, telephone, television, WiFi (included), air conditioning and safe.
For a pleasant and unforgettable stay, there is also an indoor and an outdoor pool as well as a fitness studio at your disposal. If desired, wellness facilities such as a Turkish bath and a sauna can also be booked. Wearing a swimming cap is compulsory in the pools. Advance reservation is required for use of the indoor pool.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Madeira | 19 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 23 | 25 | 27 | 29 | 26 | 25 | 22 | 20 |
| London | 6 | 8 | 11 | 15 | 18 | 20 | 22 | 22 | 19 | 17 | 12 | 8 |
Below is an information overview. The conditions of entry, as well as the political and health situation, can change anywhere in the world at any time. We therefore recommend checking the website of the Foreign Office (www.gov.uk) before your departure.
The island is located west of the Moroccan coast in the Atlantic Ocean and is an autonomous region belonging to Portugal.
Semi-presidential representative democracy
Funchal
Predominantly Roman Catholic
The national language is Portuguese.
Subtropical
220 V, 50 Hertz, an adapter is required.
Western European Time (WET) applies in Portugal (including Madeira), with summer/winter time changes. There is no time difference with the UK throughout the year.
To make phone calls to the UK, pre-dial 0044 (+44). To make phone calls from the UK to Madeira, pre-dial 00351 (+351).
The island of Madeira was formed by volcanic activity and is characterised by an impressive topography of steep cliffs, deep valleys and dense laurel forests. The island‘s capital, Funchal, located on the south coast, is a cultural and economic centre and is known for its historic architecture, flower-filled parks and lively market square. The people of Madeira are known for their hospitality and pride in their cultural traditions. The regional cuisine includes delicacies such as espetada (beef skewers), bolo do caco (a special bread) and, of course, Madeira wine, which is exported worldwide.
Recommended tips: for chambermaids £2 per day per person and in restaurants approx. £3 to £4 per meal per person. For group tours, approx. £3 to £4 per day per person is recommended for the tour guide and bus driver. Of course, it is up to each individual to decide whether and how much to tip.
If you are planning to travel to an EU country you must meet the Schengen area rules. Your passport must meet two requirements. It must be:
• Less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)
• Valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)
You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. Check your passport is stamped if you enter or exit the Schengen area through Portugal as a visitor. Border guards will use passport stamps to check you are complying with the 90-day visa-free limit for short stays in the Schengen area. If relevant entry or exit stamps are not in your passport, border guards will presume that you have overstayed your visa-free limit. From 12 October 2025, the European Union’s new Entry / Exit System (EES) will begin. When travelling into and out of the Schengen area, for short stays, you may need to:
• Have your fingerprints and your photo taken
• Answer the Schengen Border Code questions
EES may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border once the system starts.
For more information, please visit:
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/pub
Nationals of other countries are advised to enquire at the Embassy of Portugal about the entry requirements applicable to them. Whilst we endeavour to provide guidance where necessary, we can not be responsible for any problems encountered (whether at any point of entry or elsewhere) in the event that passport and visa requirements are not satisfied. For more information, please visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/.
Your expert tour guides will be able to provide you with detailed information about the country, people, history, culture etc., and offer advice and assistance for organising your trip. They can also help with room allocation and look forward to welcoming you with initial information. Here you will find out all you need to know and useful information about the trip. We have put together a varied programme including numerous highlights, enabling you to experience the culture and diversity of landscape that Madeira has to offer, and learn all about the country and its people.
Although your trip already includes a comprehensive package, you also have the option of choosing added extras. We recommend booking the following packages:
Gourmet package: The package includes half-board in the form of 7× rich buffet dinners: only £159* p. pers.
Explorer package: The package includes the two full-day excursions ‘Pico do Arieiro, Laurisilva Forest (World Heritage), Santana & Ponta de São Lourenço‘ and ‘Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, Porto Moniz, Seixal & Bridal Veil Waterfall‘ as well as the boat trip to whales, dolphins & sea turtles: only £169* p. pers.
* Both packages can only be booked up to 7 days before arrival
On Madeira, a state tourist tax of up to 2€ (approx. £1.75) per room/night is payable locally (as of January 2026).
The currency is the Euro. Exchange rate (as of January 2026): 1 GBP = 1.15 EUR; 1 EUR = 0.87 GBP.
Cash withdrawals from ATMs and credit card payments are possible everywhere. Purchases can be paid for in cash, with most major credit cards and, in some cases, with an EC / Maestro card and PIN number. Cash withdrawals are possible with both credit cards and EC/Maestro cards and PIN numbers. Your bank may charge fees for this service. Please check with your bank for more information.
There are a number of products which have entry or exit limitations in Portugal from outside the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. These include cultural goods, wild fauna and flora and products derived from these, vegetables and plant products, weapons and ammunition, medicines, tobacco and alcoholic beverages. Likewise, in the case of tobacco and alcoholic beverages, the amount must be declared and the corresponding taxes must be paid if you are carrying the following amounts or more: 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars, 250 grams of tobacco, 1 litre of alcoholic beverages with a strength of more than 22%, 2 litres of alcoholic beverages with a strength of less than 22%, 4 litres of wine and 16 litres of beer. You can only carry the medicines you need, and they must be accompanied by a copy of the prescription or medical report.
Cash and other similar means of payment: If you are taking cash or pay-to-cash cheques in euros or other currencies, or prepaid cards not linked to a bank account and/or certain gold items, or a combination thereof, totalling an amount equal to or exceeding €10,000 (approx. £8,500) into or out of Portugal, you must fill out a Declaration (in person or electronically) and present at customs on departure or entry.
Souvenirs and gifts: Your purchases should not exceed €430 (approx. £370) per person if you are travelling by sea or air. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
More detailed customs information on importing goods can be obtained from the embassy of your destination country. Only there will you receive legally binding information.
Important: If you are travelling to Great Britain from outside the UK, your personal allowances mean you can bring in a certain amount of goods without paying tax or duty. If you go over your allowances you must declare all your goods and pay tax and duty on all the goods in that category. Please inform yourself about the current customs regulations: www.gov.uk/bringing-goods-into-uk-personal-use/arriving-in-Great-Britain.
Madeira can experience storms, heavy rain and extreme weather changes throughout the year. In the event of a storm warning, please observe the information on cyclones abroad and the advice issued by the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance. It is essential that you observe the flag signals for bathing safety and follow the instructions of the lifeguards. Pay attention to trail markings and do not leave marked hiking trails.
Crime: Particular caution is advised against pickpocketing and petty crime, especially in larger tourist centres. The number of pickpocketing incidents has increased significantly in recent months. Therefore, as with any holiday trip, only carry the essentials with you when going for walks or excursions. Large amounts of cash and original identity documents should be left in the hotel safe from the outset. If you carry credit cards at all, carry secure (PIN-protected) ones. Take photocopies of your documents with you on your trip. Stay away from crowds as much as possible and keep an eye on your valuables in places frequented by tourists, airports, including security areas, train stations, underground stations, buses, etc. Carry your valuables close to your body.
Pepper spray is covered by the Weapons Act on the Azores; possession is only authorised for holders of a cat. E firearms licence. Violations usually result in criminal charges.
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC – https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad.
The quality of medical care is generally satisfactory. In Madeira, anyone with state insurance in the UK is entitled to medical treatment – where urgently necessary – by doctors, dentists, hospitals etc. registered with the foreign statutory health insurance association.
It is strongly recommended to take out international health insurance with the option of medical repatriation to the UK.
Customers must ensure that they are in good physical and mental health in line with the trip in question. Customers must enquire about the physical mobility and psychological autonomy required for this trip.
All information is subject to change/Last updated: January 2026
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