Funchal’s historical tours cut straight to the heart of this fascinating Portuguese island city. My favorite experiences here include the Private Half-Day Historic Tour, which brilliantly covers all major landmarks with local expertise. For something uniquely personal, the Winston Churchill Cultural Tour explores the hidden corners where the famous statesman painted and relaxed. Food lovers shouldn’t miss the Espetada Evening Tour – the traditional meat skewers and local wine make history deliciously memorable.
Two walking tours stand out: The Heritage of Old Funchal route reveals centuries-old architecture and charming streets, while the Wine, Sweets, Convents, and History Tour combines tasty local specialties with fascinating stories about Madeira’s past. These inspired choices lead us to our top recommendations below.
Key Points
-
The Private Half-Day Historic Tour offers an in-depth exploration of Funchal’s rich heritage with a guided walking and driving tour.
-
The Winston Churchill Cultural Tour provides a 3-hour journey highlighting Churchill’s connections to Madeira, including a scenic bus ride and guided visit to Câmara de Lobos.
-
The Espetada Evening Food and Cultural Tour showcases Madeira’s culinary heritage through a small-group tour with air-conditioned transportation.
-
The Heritage of Old Funchal – Madeira Walking Tour is a 2-hour guided tour through Funchal’s Old Town, exploring cultural and historical highlights.
-
The Funchal: Wine, Sweets, Convents, and History Tour is a 3-hour immersive experience in Funchal’s heritage and culinary delights, including guided tours, food tastings, and concerts.
Private Tour The Historic Tour Halfday
This private half-day historic tour in Funchal, Portugal, provides visitors with an in-depth exploration of the city’s rich heritage.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, apartment, or port, and transportation via private vehicle.
Highlights include a walking and driving tour of Funchal and Camara de Lobos, with opportunities to enjoy local drinks.
The tour has received an impressive 5.0-star rating from 14 reviews, with travelers praising the guide, Richard, for his expertise and personalized service.
Whether you’re interested in learning about Funchal’s history or simply experiencing the city like a local, this private tour is an excellent choice.
Read our full review: Private Tour The Historic Tour Halfday Review
Book now: Check availability
Winston Churchill Cultural Tour by Old Timer
Departing from the Funchal Cable Car, the Winston Churchill Cultural Tour by Old Timer takes visitors on a captivating 3-hour journey through the former Prime Minister’s connections to the island of Madeira.
Priced from $62.47 per person, the tour includes a scenic bus ride, a guided visit to Câmara de Lobos, and a stop at the Funchal Cable Car, where Churchill painted his famous work “Câmara de Lobos, The Fishing Port of Madeira.”
Tour-goers will also enjoy a glass of Madeira wine and a toast at the Pestana Churchill Bay hotel, honoring Churchill’s legacy.
Limited to 15 participants, this flexible, English-French-Portuguese tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Winston Churchill Cultural Tour by Old Timer Review
Book now: Check availability
The Espetada Evening Food and Cultural Tour
The Espetada Evening Food and Cultural Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy Madeira’s rich culinary and cultural heritage.
Priced from $63.26 per person, this small-group tour takes participants on a journey through Funchal, showcasing the traditional espetada dish and local customs.
Travelers will enjoy an air-conditioned vehicle transportation and dinner at their own expense.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most participants.
With a maximum of 8 travelers and an impressive 5.0-star rating based on reviews, this tour provides an authentic and intimate Madeiran experience.
Read our full review: The Espetada Evening Food and Cultural Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Heritage of Old Funchal – Madeira Walking Tour
Enjoy the rich heritage and enchanting atmosphere of Funchal’s Old Town with the Heritage of Old Funchal – Madeira Walking Tour.
This 2-hour guided adventure takes you through the city’s cultural and historical highlights. Stroll past traditional houses, unwind in serene public gardens, and discover fresh produce at the lively Farmers’ Market.
Marvel at architectural gems like the Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias and the Igreja do Colégio. Priced at Kč 5,970 for up to 4 participants, the tour offers excellent value.
Cancelable up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a flexible way to explore Funchal’s captivating past. Reserve now and pay later to secure your spot on this immersive walking journey.
Read our full review: Heritage of Old Funchal – Madeira Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Funchal: Wine, Sweets, Convents, and History Tour
Set out on a captivating 3-hour journey through Funchal’s rich heritage and culinary delights with the “Funchal: Wine, Sweets, Convents, and History Tour.”
This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s sacred architecture, marvel at exquisite Madeiran artwork, and savor the flavors that have defined the region’s cultural identity.
Explore the Convent of Santa Clara, the House-Museum of Frederico Freitas, and the Sacred Art Museum, each offering guided tours, food tastings, and concerts.
Indulge in authentic conventual delights paired with Madeira wine at the Galeria Tratuário.
Enjoy local culture, history, and gastronomy for an unforgettable adventure in Funchal.
Read our full review: Funchal: Wine, Sweets, Convents, and History Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Funchal offers a variety of historical tours that cater to diverse interests. From private tours exploring the city’s heritage to cultural experiences featuring local cuisine and wine, visitors can enjoy Madeira’s rich past. Whether you’re interested in architecture, cuisine, or the life of Winston Churchill, these tours provide an engaging and insightful way to discover Funchal’s captivating history.