Funchal’s food tours are the perfect introduction to Madeira’s traditional cuisine, and they’re worth every euro. The historic Zona Velha (Old Town) walking tours stand out as the smartest choice – they’re intimate, informative, and include essential stops at family-run shops and cafes. For wine lovers, the Madeira wine tastings paired with local cheeses and honey cake hit the spot. Our favorite tour combines Old Town exploring with stops at the workers’ market, where you’ll meet vendors selling exotic fruits and fresh-caught fish. These 3-4 hour experiences include plenty of tastings and cultural insights without tourist traps. Let’s look at the best food tours Funchal has to offer.
Key Points
- A private walking food tour in Funchal allows for a customized itinerary and one-on-one attention from the guide, starting at $30.03 per person.
- The Flavors of Madeira tour showcases the island’s culinary heritage through a 4-hour guided walk, including visits to a local winery and family farms, starting at $86.66 per person.
- The Espetada Evening Food and Cultural Tour offers a small-group experience focusing on traditional espetada tasting, with transportation and a low price guarantee starting from $63.27 per person.
- The Gourmet Wine & Food Tour provides a 4-hour experience visiting top restaurants to sample local specialties and modern fusions paired with wines, starting from $110.96 per person.
- Funchal’s food tours offer immersive experiences, knowledgeable guides, and opportunities to taste traditional and modern dishes unique to Madeira, with flexible booking and cancellation policies.
Private Walking Food Tour Around Funchal
Beginning with a private walking food tour, visitors to Funchal can explore the city’s culinary delights. This tailored experience starts at the La Vie Funchal Shopping Center, where participants can enjoy a pastel de nata tasting at the Piano Café.
The itinerary is flexible, allowing the group to customize their route as they discover Funchal’s historic Zona Velha neighborhood, with its cobbled lanes and old merchant houses.
The tour is private, ensuring the group has the guide’s undivided attention. While the food costs aren’t included, the guided tour is complimentary, with pricing starting at $30.03 per person.
The tour operates daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, and booking confirmation is received upon reservation. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Based on reviews, the knowledgeable guides and personalized experiences make this a great way to take in Funchal’s food culture.
Read our full review: Private Walking Food Tour Around Funchal Review
Book now: Check availability
Flavors of Madeira: Wine & Dine Local Farmer Food
Travelers seeking to enjoy Madeira’s culinary heritage can embark on the “Flavors of Madeira: Wine & Dine Local Farmer Food” experience. This 4-hour guided walking tour takes visitors on a journey through Funchal’s bustling food scene, showcasing the island’s rich agricultural traditions.
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 333 reviews, the tour allows participants to explore local markets, sample traditional dishes, and learn about Madeira’s winemaking legacy. Guests will visit a family-owned winery, H.M. Borges, to taste the region’s renowned Madeira wines.
The tour also includes stops at small family farms, where visitors can interact with local producers and savor fresh, seasonal produce. Priced from $86.66 per person, this immersive culinary experience provides an intimate glimpse into Madeira’s vibrant food culture.
With a small group size and knowledgeable guide, travelers can expect a personalized and authentic encounter with the island’s gastronomic delights.
Read our full review: Flavors of Madeira: Wine & Dine Local Farmer Food Review
Book now: Check availability
The Espetada Evening Food and Cultural Tour
Embarking on the “The Espetada Evening Food and Cultural Tour” in Funchal, Portugal, allows visitors to enjoy the vibrant culinary and cultural traditions of the island.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on reviews, this small-group tour (maximum 8 travelers) offers an intimate experience led by the team at Shut Up And Eat Madeira.
Guests will be transported by air-conditioned vehicle to various local establishments, where they’ll savor the renowned espetada, a traditional grilled skewered meat dish, along with other Madeiran delicacies and drinks at their discretion.
The tour starts at 4 PM, and with the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, it provides flexibility for travelers.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions, most visitors can participate in this culinary and cultural exploration of Funchal, with pickup points available and a lowest price guarantee starting from $63.27 per person.
Read our full review: The Espetada Evening Food and Cultural Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Gourmet Wine & Food Tour
The Gourmont Wine & Food Tour in Funchal offers visitors a delectable journey through the culinary heart of the city.
The 4-hour tour, priced from $110.96 per person, takes guests to the top 3 restaurants in town, where they’ll sample a variety of local specialties and enjoy modern fusions and classic dishes paired with local and Portuguese wines.
The tour is available in English, French, and Portuguese, and features a qualified guide to lead the way.
Highlights include fresh tuna cornetto, sardines with passion fruit mayonnaise, espada fish, parrot fish, and “espetada” with polenta, as well as a passion fruit soufflé paired with Madeira wine.
The tour is ideal for both wine enthusiasts and novices, with the opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, the Gourmet Wine & Food Tour provides a convenient and delicious way to explore Funchal’s flavors.
A minimum of 4 participants is required for the tour to proceed.
Read our full review: Gourmet Wine & Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Food Tours Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?
The food tours are generally suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as many providers offer alternative menu options to cater to dietary restrictions. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure your needs can be accommodated.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Food Tours?
The cancellation policy for the food tours typically allows for full refunds if cancelled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled tour. Some tours may have stricter policies, so it’s best to check the details with the tour operator.
Are the Food Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Many of the food tours in Funchal are wheelchair accessible, with tours designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs. Travelers should check with the tour provider ahead of time to confirm accessibility and make any necessary arrangements.
Can the Food Tours Accommodate Food Allergies or Intolerances?
Many food tour providers can accommodate dietary restrictions like food allergies or intolerances. They’ll work with guests to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It’s best to communicate any needs upfront when booking the tour.
Do the Food Tours Include Transportation to and From the Starting Point?
Most food tours provide transportation to and from the starting point, making it convenient for participants. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm if transportation is included and discuss any dietary restrictions.
Recap
Funchal’s food tours offer a delightful way to experience the island’s culinary heritage. From private walks through the city’s markets to wine and dine experiences, there’s something to suit every palate. Whether you’re looking for traditional Madeiran fare or a gourmet exploration, these tours provide an immersive and memorable taste of the region’s flavors.