Shore Excursions Group
New Year's Eve In Funchal
On New Year’s Eve in the volcanic archipelago of Madeira, one of the most elaborate celebrations breaks out to the joy of locals and visitors alike. The lush, jagged islands are a contrasting blend of dark grey volcanic rock and an incredibly diverse and colorful botanical ecosystem.
The Portuguese territory, colonized in 1420, is dotted with charming villages and cities adorned by red-titled roofs, which will mark the backdrop of your New Year’s experience. From state-of-the-art catamarans off the coast of the island, you’ll take in the celebration in the city of Funchal.
Funchal heralds in the New Year with a massive, ornate fireworks display – one so elaborate and thorough that it captured the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest-ever fireworks display in 2006. The award was granted at 1:30 AM on January 1, 2007!
| Day 1 |
Nestled on the sun-drenched southern coast of Madeira, Funchal, the island's capital, offers an enchanting mix of old-world charm, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. This picturesque city, set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and the deep blue Atlantic Ocean, is known for its lush botanical gardens, stunning vistas, and year-round mild climate. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic Old Town, Zona Velha, where colorful murals adorn the doors of traditional Madeiran houses, or visit the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores, a lively market where locals sell fresh produce, flowers, and handicrafts. The aromas of exotic fruits, spices, and fresh seafood will transport you into the heart of Madeira's unique culinary heritage. For a breathtaking view of Funchal, take the cable car from the Old Town up to the hilltop village of Monte. Here, you can explore the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a verdant paradise filled with exotic plants, Koi ponds, and Asian-inspired sculptures. Don't miss the exhilarating toboggan ride down the winding streets of Monte – a traditional Madeiran experience where you’ll be whisked downhill in a wicker basket sled, guided by skilled carreiros. For those interested in history, the 15th-century Sé Cathedral, with its intricate wooden ceiling and striking Manueline-style architecture, offers a glimpse into Funchal's colonial past. Funchal is also renowned for its wine and its namesake Madeira wine, a fortified wine that has been produced on the island for centuries. Wine lovers can visit the Blandy’s Wine Lodge, the oldest winery in Madeira, to learn about the island's rich viticultural history and enjoy tastings of different styles of Madeira wine, from dry to sweet. Afterward, wander along the Avenida do Mar, a scenic promenade that runs along Funchal’s waterfront, where you can relax at one of the many cafes while watching yachts and cruise ships glide by. Fun fact: Funchal is known for its spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks display, which was recognized by the Guinness World Records in 2006 as the largest fireworks display in the world. Every year, the skies over Funchal Bay light up in a mesmerizing explosion of colors, attracting thousands of visitors to Madeira to celebrate the New Year in unforgettable style. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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05/03/22 - 04/09/27 |
Starting At $197 |
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Guests must be able to step in and out of a catamaran. This tour is NOT wheelchair/walker accessible, and all children must wear life jackets.
