Most of the taxi drivers offer fixed island tours with a "menu of trips" regulated by the tourist board, you should find this card in each cab. Beware of low cost island tours being offered by the hotels, they often include a "time share presentation" so double check before booking. If you decline the presentation the price goes up 300-400%! My advice is pick a taxi driver who speaks your language and pay the extra for your own personal tour. Email me for a recommendation and help with booking.
If you are not inclined to hire a car or take a day trip, you can easily fill a week in Funchal through eating, shopping, the odd cafe, museums, taking the cable car, people watching, etc...
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Pico do Arieiro
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Botanical Gardens, Funchal
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Santana, North East
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Paul da Serra
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Camara De Lobos
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Monte, just above Funchal
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Porto Do Moniz, North West
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Ribeiro Frio & Trout Farm
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Monte Tropical Gardens
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Funchal City
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July 22nd to 29th - Green Fresh Week 2010 The company Fresh Produções sponsor a “Green Fresh Week” of music events and other interesting activities. August 5th to 7th - Madeira Wine Rally (European Rally Championship) The Madeira Wine Rally is known as one of the most important competitions of the European Rally Championship and of course, considered the most spectacular in Madeira. More details can be found here... www.ralivm.com/frontpage.cfm September 2nd to 5th - Madeira Wine Festival This event pays tribute to the most prestigious regional product, which is largely responsible for the Madeira’s international profile, as well as to cultural roots of its locals, who have been producing this exquisite wine since the early years of the islands settlement. Festivities will take place in Funchal and Câmara de Lobos, specifically in the parish of Estreito de Câmara de Lobos.. September 16th to 18th - Columbus Festival, Porto Santo Island Columbus Festival has been held on the island of Porto Santo since the late 90s in honour of Christopher Columbus, illustrious 15th century navigator, believed to be of Genoese origin. Columbus arrived to the island of Madeira as to establish business connections related to the sugar cane trade, which was a very lucrative business at the time November 26th - Funchal Christmas Lights Christmas traditions are deeply rooted in the Madeirans’ habits and are combined with the New Year celebrations in a varied programme of cultural, folk and artistic events, beginning in November, when the lights are switched on in the centre of Funchal, lasting all through December and only ending on Twelfth Night |
