Things to do in Porto da Cruz

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal village with houses, a winding road, and a mountainous backdrop.
A rugged cliff with green vegetation and turquoise waters.
A coastal landscape with green vegetation, daisies, and a rocky outcrop in the sea.
A rocky coastline with a large cliff and a beach.
A rugged coastline with a large cliff and turbulent sea waves.

Things to do

City Sightseeing Funchal Madeira Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing Funchal Madeira Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras

€26
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
City Sightseeing Funchal Madeira Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras
Picture 8 for Activity Madeira: Pico do Arieiro Sunset and Optional Dinner & Drinks

Madeira: Pico Arieiro Sunset with Stairway to Heaven Option

€45
per adult
Madeira: Pico Arieiro Sunset with Stairway to Heaven Option
Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

€35
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise
From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching

From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching

€35
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching
Aerial view of Cabo Girão Island

Funchal Hop-On Hop-Off Câmara de Lobos & Cabo Girão 5 Days

€29
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Funchal Hop-On Hop-Off Câmara de Lobos & Cabo Girão 5 Days
Quinta do Lord: Baia d'Abra Water Taxi

Quinta do Lorde: Ponta de São Lourenço Water Taxi

€17
per adult
Quinta do Lorde: Ponta de São Lourenço Water Taxi
Levada Walk and Caldeirao Verde Waterfalls: Madeira

Levada Walk and Caldeirao Verde Waterfalls: Madeira

€39
per adult
Levada Walk and Caldeirao Verde Waterfalls: Madeira
Madeira Walks - Rabaçal and the 25 Fountains

Madeira Walks - Rabaçal and the 25 Fountains

€48
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Madeira Walks - Rabaçal and the 25 Fountains
Picture 2 for Activity Caldeirão Verde: Queimadas PR9 Transfer Hike

Caldeirão Verde: Levada Caldeirao Verde Hiking Transfer

€40
per adult
Caldeirão Verde: Levada Caldeirao Verde Hiking Transfer
See all activities in Porto da Cruz
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Porto Moniz Natural Pools

The Porto Moniz Natural Pools are one of the city’s most popular attractions. Formed by volcanic lava, these tranquil pools are sheltered from the strong current of the Atlantic by black basalt rocks. Swim, sunbathe or snorkel at the pools, which are complete with changing rooms, lockers and lifeguard services. There’s also a children’s pool and play area, making the pools an excellent spot for a family excursion.
Learn more
A rocky coastline with a prominent hill and a small statue on top.

2. Praca do Municipio

Funchal’s Town Square is a bustling hub of activity, lined with beautiful checkered cobblestones and bordered by grand whitewashed buildings. In addition to being a lovely civic center, the square is an ideal starting point for visiting several attractions, including the Sacred Art Museum, City Hall and the former Jesuit College.
Learn more
A street with pedestrians, a taxi, and a building with a sign that reads "TATOO".

3. Madeira Botanical Garden

Enjoy the rich collection of more than 2,000 plants at the Madeira Botanical Garden. Set on a hillside overlooking Funchal, this beautifully landscaped garden offers dramatic views of the mountains to the north and the ocean to the south.
Learn more
A botanical garden with colorful flower beds, a palm tree, and a cityscape in the background.

4. Ponta Do Sol Beach

Ponta do Sol Beach is a pleasant pebble beach surrounded by rugged cliffs and lined with charming cafés. Known for being one of the sunniest places in Madeira, the beach is a wonderful spot to relax and bask in the warm sun and go for a dip in the calm coastal waters.
Learn more
A beach with people sunbathing, colorful buildings, and palm trees.

5. Pico do Ariero

Pico do Arieiro offers some of the most stunning views in Madeira. Towering 5,965 feet (1,818 meters) in the air, the mountain’s craggy rocks are frequently veiled with clouds. On a clear day, view Porto Santo in the distance. Pico do Arieiro is linked to the island’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo, by a challenging but rewarding hiking trail.
Learn more
A mountain hiking trail signpost with directions to Pico Ruivo (E) 7.0 km and Pico Ruivo (O) 5.6 km.

What to do in Porto da Cruz

A pebble beach with people sunbathing and swimming, a white building with a red roof, and a rocky coastline with houses on a hillside in the background.

Santa Cruz

A densely packed urban area with a mix of colorful buildings, including a prominent white church with a bell tower.

Funchal

A pebbled beach with people sunbathing, a mountain in the background, and a building with a red roof.

Machico

Frequently asked questions

Is Porto da Cruz worth visiting?
Renowned for its views and walking trails, discovering cool things to do in Porto da Cruz is a cinch. Remember to add Machico Beach to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Porto da Cruz?
Begin your day with a visit to Machico Beach and Faial Beach. Then, explore other parts of Porto da Cruz for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Porto da Cruz?
You can't leave without exploring Machico Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Porto da Cruz.
Is three days enough to stay in Porto da Cruz?
Book a holiday in Porto da Cruz for three days and you'll comfortably be able to discover its most popular sights and get a taste for the local vibe. For the chance to visit highlights in nearby areas and venture off the tourist trail, consider sticking around for up to 10 days.
What are some activities to do in Porto da Cruz with kids?
If you're looking for sights and activities for all the family, we've got some terrific ideas for what to do in Porto da Cruz with kids.

What to do in Porto da Cruz for adults?
From incredible food and cultural gems to outdoor adventures and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are loads of fun things to do in Porto da Cruz for adults.
Are there free things to do in Porto da Cruz?
One of the simplest ways to find free things to do in Porto da Cruz is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Machico Beach is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.