Shopping in Madeira centers around authentic local experiences – from bustling markets to traditional craft workshops. The must-visit Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal showcases the island’s best produce, flowers, and seafood in a historic 1940s building. Local guides excel at connecting visitors to skilled artisans, especially in the Old Town where Madeiran embroidery and wickerwork traditions continue.
I especially love the half-day market tours that start early morning (best selection, fewer travelers) and include tastings of local fruits and Poncha, Madeira’s traditional drink. The Sunday morning tour to Santo da Serra Market is another favorite, offering a genuine slice of local life away from tourist zones.
Check out these top Madeira shopping experiences that combine culture, crafts, and cuisine.
Key Points
- Funchal’s Mercado dos Lavradores is a renowned destination for fresh produce, local crafts, and opportunities to taste Madeiran delicacies.
- Avenida Arriaga and the Old Town (Zona Velha) offer a variety of boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries showcasing Madeiran culture.
- Cooking experiences and guided tours of local farmers markets provide immersive culinary and shopping experiences, often with the option of private or small group settings.
- Banana farm tours and visits to the Santo da Serra flea market and Santa Cruz beach resort offer unique shopping and sightseeing opportunities.
- Combination tours that include shopping and scenic attractions, such as Pico Do Arieiro, cater to adventurous and nature-loving travelers.
Cooking Experience & Market Tour
The Cooking Experience & Market Tour in Madeira, Portugal offers travelers an immersive culinary adventure. This highly-rated tour, with a 93% recommendation rate, takes guests on a guided exploration of a local market showcasing unique regional produce.
Travelers can taste exotic fruits and learn about Madeiran culinary heritage from knowledgeable hosts. The experience continues with a rooftop cooking class where professional chefs demonstrate the preparation of local specialties like fish ceviche and the traditional “Espetada.”
Guests enjoy a generous four-course lunch accompanied by Portuguese wines. While some have noted the experience leans more toward a demonstration than hands-on cooking, the tour provides an engaging introduction to Madeira’s vibrant food culture.
Read our full review: Cooking Experience & Market Tour Review
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Madeira: Private Banana Farm Tour With Pickup
A private banana farm tour in Funchal, Madeira offers travelers an exclusive opportunity to explore the unique agricultural heritage of this Portuguese island.
The 2.5-hour experience takes visitors to a local banana farm, where they’ll learn about Madeira’s distinct banana subspecies and the production processes that make the fruit extra nutrient-rich.
Travelers can also enjoy panoramic views from the Viewpoint RG3 and sample the farm’s delicious bananas.
With optional pickup from select locations, this tour provides a hassle-free way to take in Madeira’s banana cultivation.
Priced from €150 per group of up to 4 participants, it’s a great value for a personalized, educational outing.
Read our full review: Madeira: Private Banana Farm Tour With Pickup Review
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Funchal : Sunday Market – South East Tour
Immerse oneself in Madeira’s vibrant local culture on this Sunday Market – South East Tour in Funchal. Priced from $26.56 per person, this tour offers a personalized experience for a maximum of 18 travelers.
Visit the Santo da Serra flea market, Santa Cruz beach resort, and take in views of Machico Bay and Ponta de São Lorenço. The tour includes a professional guide, hotel/port pickup and drop-off, and air-conditioned transportation.
While pickup from the Cruise Ship Port is available for an additional fee, there’s no pickup from Machico, Santa Cruz, or other locations outside Funchal, Camara de Lobos, and Canico.
With a 4.4 rating based on reviews, this tour promises an immersive exploration of Madeira’s vibrant Sunday market scene.
Read our full review: Funchal : Sunday Market – South East Tour Review
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From Funchal: Pico Do Arieiro and Santo Do Serra Market Tour
Embark on an exhilarating journey from Funchal to the captivating Pico do Arieiro and the vibrant Santo do Serra Market with this tour.
Priced from $46.93 per person, this 4-hour adventure offers free cancellation and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
Explore the breathtaking views of Pico do Arieiro, indulge in the bustling market, and embark on an off-road excursion.
With a small group of up to 6 participants, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French.
This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals over 6’6″ or 230 lbs, but it’s highly recommended for adventure and nature enthusiasts.
Read our full review: From Funchal: Pico Do Arieiro and Santo Do Serra Market Tour Review
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Sunday Market Tour – Madeira Island Excursion
Explore the lively Sunday market in Santa da Serra, Madeira Island, on this half-day excursion.
You’ll browse local crafts, snacks, and souvenirs while taking in the bustling atmosphere.
The tour includes round-trip transportation by minibus and visits to landmarks like the public park and Cristo Rei statue.
With an overall rating of 3.8/5 from 6 reviews, it’s a popular option for sightseeing and shopping on the island.
Pickup is available from two locations in Funchal City, and the tour starts at 8:30 AM, returning to the initial meeting point.
Most travelers can participate, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Reserve now and pay later to secure your spot on this budget-friendly Madeira adventure.
Read our full review: Sunday Market Tour – Madeira Island Excursion Review
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Half-Day Country Market Tour on Madeira Island
Travelers seeking an authentic taste of Madeiran culture can embark on the Half-Day Country Market Tour on Madeira Island. Priced at $26.07 per person, this 4-hour excursion explores the island’s local markets, gardens, and scenic viewpoints.
The tour includes stops at the Santa Cruz market, the Quinta do Santo da Serra gardens, and the Santo da Serra market, where visitors can enjoy the island’s delicacies and traditions.
With pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, as well as complimentary food and drinks, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of Madeira’s cultural heritage.
Reviews highlight the tour guide’s language skills and plant knowledge, though some note the market visit may not be the most engaging aspect.
Read our full review: Half-Day Country Market Tour on Madeira Island Review
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Sunday Market and Gardens Tour
Departing from Funchal at 9:00 am, the Sunday Market and Gardens Tour offers travelers a captivating glimpse into Madeira’s local culture and natural beauty.
During this 3-hour excursion, guests will visit the vibrant Santo da Serra market, a social hub where local farmers and vendors showcase their products.
Next, they’ll explore the serene Santo da Serra gardens, admiring the blooming camellias and tranquil paths.
The tour also includes a stop at the seaside town of Santa Cruz, where visitors can enjoy a leisurely promenade.
Along the way, guests will sample local delicacies, homemade sweets, and the traditional rum punch, providing a true taste of Madeiran hospitality.
Read our full review: Sunday Market and Gardens Tour Review
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Madeira: Private Half-Day Local Market Tour
This private half-day tour offers travelers an immersive experience into Madeira’s vibrant local markets.
Priced from $156.42 per group (up to 4 participants), the 4-hour tour allows visitors to explore the island’s renowned farmers markets. Guests will visit the Sunday market in Santo da Serra and the weekday market in Funchal, discovering unique local produce, gastronomy, and handicrafts.
The tour includes VIP service with a local guide, private transportation, and the option to visit notable Quintas (farming ranches).
Pickup is available from select locations, and the tour operates rain or shine. Comfortable clothing and advance notice of dietary needs are recommended for an immersive and personalized shopping experience.
Read our full review: Madeira: Private Half-Day Local Market Tour Review
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Madeira: Santo De Serra Local Farmers Market Half Day Trip
Commencing with a guided tour in a 4×4 open-top vehicle, guests will embark on a 3.5-hour journey to the Santo da Serra Local Farmers Market. Priced from $43.80 per person, this half-day trip offers the opportunity to explore a local market featuring an array of fresh produce, homemade bread, and artisanal liquors.
Along the way, visitors will visit the Christ the King viewpoint and surrounding landscapes. With a small group size of up to 8 persons and a local guide, the experience emphasizes flexibility and personalized attention.
While pickups are included from Funchal hotels, additional fees apply for locations outside the city. Notably, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility concerns.
Read our full review: Madeira: Santo De Serra Local Farmers Market Half Day Trip Review
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Madeira: East Santana, São Lourenço, & Local Farmers Market
Guests embark on an 8-hour exploration of Madeira’s east coast, seeing the vibrant local farmers market, scenic viewpoints, and cultural highlights.
The tour limits participants to 8 and offers transportation from various locations in Funchal. Highlights include a photo stop and guided tour at Pico do Arieiro, time to explore the Santo da Serra Market, and visits to Miradouro São Lourenço and Cristo Rei in Caniço.
Guests can savor local delicacies, capture stunning panoramas, and learn about Madeira’s history from the knowledgeable guide.
With flexible booking options and a generous cancellation policy, this tour provides a well-rounded experience of Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Read our full review: Madeira: East Santana, São Lourenço, & Local Farmers Market Review
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Sum Up
Madeira offers a variety of shopping tours to explore its vibrant markets and local produce. From visiting banana farms and Sunday markets to discovering traditional crafts, these tours provide an immersive experience in the island’s culture and cuisine. Whether you’re interested in cooking classes, produce tastings, or simply browsing the local wares, Madeira has a shopping tour to suit your interests.