Madeira is a great family destination: mild weather all year, short distances and plenty of nature. The main challenge is the terrain, so choose walks and beaches carefully.
Dolphin and whale watching on a stable catamaran (see whale watching). The Monte cable car and toboggan ride (see Monte). The Santa Maria, a replica of Columbus's ship (see boat trips). Swimming in the natural pools of Porto Moniz, with the aquarium next door, and on the sandy beaches of Calheta, Machico and Porto Santo (see beaches).
Short, mostly level walks such as the Balcões viewpoint and the Risco waterfall are ideal with children. Avoid routes with long unprotected drops and keep children close on narrow levada sections. See easy levada walks.
Mountain roads are winding, so plan short drives and bring motion-sickness remedies. Pack layers for the mountains even in summer. Funchal is the easiest base, with tours that pick up from hotels and a choice of family hotels with pools.
Yes, with mild weather, safe swimming in pools and lidos, boat trips and easy walks. It is less suited to young children who want long sandy beaches, unless you add Porto Santo.
A catamaran outing from Funchal to look for dolphins and whales at sea. It lasts about 2.5 hours, which suits a half-day slot in the schedule.
from €35 per person
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One-way scenic ride up to Monte, with pickup in the Funchal area or at the cruise port. Then try the toboggans or visit the Tropical Garden on your own. Photo stops on request.
from €25 per person
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A three-hour trip on the Santa Maria de Colombo, a ship tour off Madeira's coast. Suits travellers who prefer a seated, unhurried outing on the water.
from €45 per person
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A guided tuk-tuk ride through Funchal's old streets, covering colonial architecture, the roots of Madeira wine and the local markets. A relaxed way to learn about the city.
from €31 per person
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Suits travellers who want a valley, the Monte area and a toboggan ride combined in one outing. The tour takes about 4 hours.
from €44 per person
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Relaxed tuk tuk ride with a local guide through Funchal's old streets to the Botanical Garden, whose terraces hold exotic plants and views over the city and the Atlantic.
from €38 per person
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Tuk tuk transfer to the botanical gardens for visitors who prefer not to arrange their own transport. The driver waits during the visit, then the ride returns via the old town.
from €38 per person
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A guided visit starting in Funchal that covers sights and restaurants along the way. Suits anyone after a relaxed introduction to the area by tuk-tuk.
from €39 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Prices are indicative and may change. The final price is shown by the booking platform. Prices checked: October 16, 2026.
