Funchal’s drinking scene combines local charm with modern flair. Three standout tours offer distinct ways to experience Madeira’s drinking culture. The Bar Hopping Adventure brings visitors through the historic Old Town (“Zona Velha”) in four hours, hitting authentic local spots with included drinks. I particularly love this tour for its mix of hidden gems and local insights.
The Pub Crawl excels at showcasing the fascinating British influence on Madeira’s drinking culture, while the Craft Beer Tour connects visitors with the island’s emerging microbrewery movement. Both tours include generous tastings and expert guides who know their stuff.
Let’s explore the specifics of these excellent drinking tours:
Good To Know
- Bar hopping tours in Funchal’s Zona Velha offer a guided 4-hour adventure with hotel pickup, reserved seating, complimentary beverages, and drop-off at various locations.
- Funchal pub crawls focus on the city’s pub culture and British-Madeira connections, with a small-group 3-hour tour visiting three carefully selected venues.
- Craft beer tours provide a 4-hour exploration of Madeira’s craft beer scene, including brewery visits and opportunities to sample local and national craft beers.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies, with options for private group tours, ensure an immersive experience in Funchal’s vibrant nightlife.
- Tours emphasize local beers, craft cocktails, and traditional drinks, fostering camaraderie among participants and enhancing understanding of the local culture.
Madeira: Bar Hopping
Set out on a lively bar hopping adventure through Funchal’s historic “Zona Velha” neighborhood. This 4-hour guided tour offers an immersive experience in Madeira’s vibrant nightlife.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit multiple bars with unique ambiances, sampling a variety of local beers, craft cocktails, and traditional drinks along the way.
The tour starts with a hassle-free hotel pickup, and you’ll have reserved seating for the excursion. At each stop, you’ll enjoy at least one complimentary beverage, allowing you to fully embrace the lively atmosphere.
The tour concludes with drop-off at one of three convenient locations: Funchal, Câmara De Lobos, or Caniço.
Priced from $46.93 per person, this bar hopping experience is a fantastic way to discover Madeira’s nightlife. With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, you can book with confidence.
Read our full review: Madeira: Bar Hopping Review
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Funchal: Pub Crawl
Travelers looking to enjoy Funchal’s vibrant pub culture can embark on a captivating 3-hour Pub Crawl experience. This small-group tour, limited to 8 participants, invites you to explore the city’s best pubs and savor the unique British-Madeira connection.
Accompanied by an English-speaking live guide, the Funchal Pub Crawl takes you to three carefully selected venues for tastings of ales and lagers.
Pickup and drop-off are included, with a 9-seater van servicing designated areas like Funchal, Caniço, and Camara de Lobos. The tour’s flexible itinerary ensures you experience Funchal’s nightlife and cultural context.
Drinks are included at each stop, though additional beverages or snacks can be purchased separately. While the tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, it’s an excellent opportunity for adults to enjoy the vibrant social atmosphere of Funchal’s pub scene.
Secure your spot by reserving now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Funchal: Pub Crawl Review
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Madeira: Craft Beer Tour
The Madeira: Craft Beer Tour offers a 4-hour exploration of the island’s thriving craft beer scene. Priced from $51.10 per person, this guided tour takes visitors to the best breweries in Funchal, where they can learn about the history and techniques behind the beers.
Customers will have the opportunity to sample a variety of local and national craft beers, including unique offerings with special ingredients.
The tour includes hotel or cruise pickup and drop-off, as well as at least one beer at each bar. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18.
Visitors can reserve their spot now and pay later, and a private group option is available. The tour’s laid-back atmosphere fosters camaraderie among beer enthusiasts, and participants can enjoy a free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Madeira: Craft Beer Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Drinking Tours?
There’s generally no strict dress code for drinking tours, though participants should dress comfortably and appropriately for the activity. Casual attire is usually fine, but it’s best to avoid overly revealing or formal wear.
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Tours?
Most drinking tour operators don’t allow participants to bring their own alcohol. It’s generally advised to check the tour policies beforehand. Participants are typically expected to consume only the drinks provided during the tour.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Most tour companies accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies with advance notice. Guests should notify the tour operator of any special needs when booking to ensure the necessary arrangements are made.
How Much Walking Is Involved in the Drinking Tours?
The amount of walking involved in drinking tours can vary, but most feature moderate walking, with stops at different establishments. Guests should inquire about the specific itinerary and any accessibility needs before booking to ensure the tour meets their physical requirements.
Can I Book a Private or Customized Drinking Tour?
Yes, many drinking tour operators in Funchal offer private and customized tours. Travelers can tailor the itinerary, pace, and focus to their preferences, whether that’s visiting local wineries, craft breweries, or exploring the city’s vibrant bar scene.
The Sum Up
Funchal, the capital of Madeira, offers a range of drinking tours to suit various tastes. From the traditional bar-hopping experience to craft beer tours, visitors can enjoy the island’s vibrant nightlife and discover its diverse drinking culture. Whether seeking a lively pub crawl or a more specialized tasting tour, Funchal provides ample opportunities to explore the region’s beverages and socialize with locals and fellow travelers.