Mount and Botanical Garden 1
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Mount and Botanical Garden

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
Shore ExcursionsLuxuryBus & Minivan Tours
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About this activity

Ascend to Monte, Madeira's spiritual and scenic hilltop neighbourhood, then descend via the iconic wicker toboggan ride before exploring the expansive Botanical Garden with panoramic city views. This 4-hour experience combines cultural heritage, thrilling transport, and horticultural beauty in one seamless excursion.

The Tour of Monte and Botanical Garden in Madeira begins the journey that leads to Monte, a cozy place where you can find stunning views and visit the Church of Our Lady of the Mount, an 18th century building and the most important pilgrimage site in Madeira. Having the possibility to go down the street by our renowned attraction, the Tobbogan Ride in the basket cars. The tour leads to the Botanical Garden, one of the most pleasant gardens in the region, with splendid views over the city of Funchal, covering an area of 80,000 m², with a collection of a wide variety of plants and a Natural History Museum.

This tour goes on:

Mount

Botanical Garden (entrance fee included)

Highlights

  • ✓Visit the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte, an 18th-century pilgrimage church with commanding hilltop position
  • ✓Experience the legendary wicker toboggan ride down Monte's steep streets in traditional basket cars
  • ✓Explore 80,000 m² of curated botanical gardens showcasing tropical and native Madeiran plants
  • ✓Enjoy sweeping vistas over Funchal and the surrounding coastline from multiple viewpoints
  • ✓Browse the on-site Natural History Museum
  • ✓Entrance fees to the Botanical Garden included in tour price

Insider tips

  • ★The toboggan ride is a unique local tradition—dress comfortably but avoid loose items that might fall during the descent
  • ★Visit early morning for cooler temperatures and clearer views across Funchal's bay
  • ★The Botanical Garden's shaded pathways offer respite from sun; bring water and comfortable walking shoes
  • ★Ask your guide about plant origins—many specimens are from tropical regions worldwide, not just Madeira

Good to know

  • •Suitable for most fitness levels; some walking involved in gardens and up/downhill terrain in Monte
  • •Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for the toboggan ride and garden paths
  • •The tour is typically operated via minivan or small bus; confirm pickup location at booking
  • •Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and a light jacket for higher elevation
  • •Natural History Museum has limited hours; prioritise if of special interest

Who it's for

Cruise passengers on port days in Funchal seeking compact, landmark-rich shore excursionsCouples and photographers attracted to viewpoint-rich itineraries and iconic experiencesBotany and horticulture enthusiasts exploring curated plant collectionsFamilies seeking a mix of cultural, active (toboggan), and educational activities

Best time to visit

Visit in late spring (May–June) or autumn (September–October) for pleasant temperatures and low rain. Morning departures ensure clearer visibility and fewer crowds at the Botanical Garden.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€50
per person