Toboggan in the capital
The capital of Funchal is far from a metropolis, in fact its colonial architecture and lush gardens make it feel very homely.
Due to the subtropical climate of Madeira, botanical plants thrive here and you can visit the Monte Palace Gardens by taking a cable car up to the village of Monte.
To change things up a bit, head down the hill a more traditional way – on a toboggan no less. A wicker sled with wooden runners might not sound very safe but you’ll be steered by two guides with rubber-soled shoes who know what they’re doing.
Another thing Funchal is famous for is its spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks, which gained the Guinness World Record for the largest fireworks display.
You can enjoy the fireworks due to pleasingly warm winter temperatures in Madeira, but if you’re visiting for a summer holiday, there’s also the popular Atlantic Festival fireworks competition. Set to music, it’s held every Saturday night in June.