A New Year’s Celebration Like No Other on Madeira Island
No matter the season, a vacation on Portugal's Madeira Island is always a fantastic idea, thanks to its mild, Mediterranean-like climate. With such pleasant weather year-round, Madeira has earned the nickname "Island of Eternal Spring." However, while every time is a good time to visit, the holiday season — especially Christmas and New Year’s — offers an especially memorable experience.
Visiting Madeira in late December and ringing in the New Year allows you to make memories that will last a lifetime. You’ll have the opportunity to join in fun festivities, and experience a rich window into the traditions and culture of the Madeiran people.
New Year’s is a time of hope and new beginnings, and there’s no better place — or people — to celebrate life with than on Madeira. The revelry kicks off early in December and builds to an exuberant celebration, lasting all the way to Twelfth Night.
What can you expect when visiting during this magical time? A little bit of everything — from cultural and artistic events to religious rites and deeply rooted traditions that will make your experience truly unique.
No matter the season, a vacation on Portugal's Madeira Island is always a fantastic idea, thanks to its mild, Mediterranean-like climate. With such pleasant weather year-round, Madeira has earned the nickname "Island of Eternal Spring." However, while every time is a good time to visit, the holiday season — especially Christmas and New Year’s — offers an especially memorable experience.
Visiting Madeira in late December and ringing in the New Year allows you to make memories that will last a lifetime. You’ll have the opportunity to join in fun festivities, and experience a rich window into the traditions and culture of the Madeiran people.
New Year’s is a time of hope and new beginnings, and there’s no better place — or people — to celebrate life with than on Madeira. The revelry kicks off early in December and builds to an exuberant celebration, lasting all the way to Twelfth Night.
What can you expect when visiting during this magical time? A little bit of everything — from cultural and artistic events to religious rites and deeply rooted traditions that will make your experience truly unique.
Christmas & New Year Festivities
In December, the archipelago is completely immersed in the magic of Christmas, and the festivities reach their peak with the splendid fireworks on New Year's Eve!
Madeira is Celebrating!
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In Madeira, New Year's Eve and the entire Christmas season are experienced with a unique intensity.
After all, this is ‘the party’ of the archipelago, celebrated throughout the month of December!
After all, this is ‘the party’ of the archipelago, celebrated throughout the month of December!
As the capital of Madeira, Funchal takes center stage in hosting the island's grand New Year celebrations. From early December through New Year’s Day, the city is alive with an infectious holiday spirit, offering an array of exciting activities. Funchal’s transformation is nothing short of magical, as thousands of twinkling lights adorn its main streets, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Beyond the dazzling displays, the city's vibrant community and bustling local vendors selling holiday crafts amplify the festive cheer, making it a delightful destination for holiday shopping and exploration. While you can enjoy New Year’s festivities anywhere on the island, for the ultimate celebration, Funchal is undeniably the place to be.
Funchal offers a wealth of local shops, charming cafés, and vibrant markets. Whether you’re searching for the perfect memento, a unique souvenir, or even a last-minute Christmas gift, this magical city has something for everyone.
Funchal offers a wealth of local shops, charming cafés, and vibrant markets. Whether you’re searching for the perfect memento, a unique souvenir, or even a last-minute Christmas gift, this magical city has something for everyone.
THE GRAND FINALE!
Lights, Lights & more Lights!
As you wander through the illuminated streets, you’ll be captivated by the festive brilliance, guiding you through a world of holiday splendor. In addition to the stunning lights, they will be complemented by live music from Philharmonic bands to folk groups, choirs and more! Madeira's Orchestra New Year's concert is a must see! Performed at the city pier for everyone to enjoy.
One of the world’s most famous fireworks displays to ring in the New Year!
Gala Dinner
A gala dinner on Madeira is a luxurious and unforgettable experience, especially during the festive New Year’s celebrations. This evening is filled with fine dining, exquisite local cuisine, and top-notch service.
You’ll be treated to a multi-course meal that often features Madeiran specialties such as fresh seafood, "espetada," and delicious regional desserts, all paired with exceptional Madeiran wine.
The highlight of the night, of course, is the countdown to midnight, where guests celebrate with champagne and fireworks, ushering in the New Year in grand style.
What else to expect with this fabulous trip?
Our Welcome Dinner
The most famous dinner on the island--"Espetada" It's delicious meat on a skewer grilled over an open fire. Amazing!
Madeira's famous "Espetada" is an absolute must-try! These mouth-watering, skewered beef cubes are traditionally seasoned with garlic, salt, and bay leaves, then grilled over an open flame to perfection. Served on large skewers that hang vertically at your table, the smoky, juicy flavors of this Madeiran specialty make it a dining experience you won’t forget. Whether you enjoy it at a local restaurant or during a festive outdoor gathering, "Espetada" is a true taste of Madeira’s rich culinary heritage.
Madeira's famous "Espetada" is an absolute must-try! These mouth-watering, skewered beef cubes are traditionally seasoned with garlic, salt, and bay leaves, then grilled over an open flame to perfection. Served on large skewers that hang vertically at your table, the smoky, juicy flavors of this Madeiran specialty make it a dining experience you won’t forget. Whether you enjoy it at a local restaurant or during a festive outdoor gathering, "Espetada" is a true taste of Madeira’s rich culinary heritage.
Culture
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Experiencing Madeira’s culture wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the traditional folklore dance, known as "Bailinho da Madeira." This lively and colorful dance, accompanied by traditional instruments like the "rajão" and "brinquinho," is an expression of the island’s rich heritage and community spirit. Dancers, dressed in vibrant, handwoven costumes, move in joyous, rhythmic steps, reflecting the island’s traditions and celebrating its agricultural roots. Participating in or simply watching this spirited dance offers a true glimpse into the heart of Madeiran culture, making it an unforgettable part of your visit.
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Experiences in Madeira
Three tours/excursions with lunch are included.
West Side of the Island
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East Side of
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A walk in the city of Funchal
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Of course we have incredible experiences for everyone on these tours, from wine tasting to the authentic "poncha" and not to mention the sugarcane cake! And much more...
Hotel Riu Madeira****
This fabulous hotel has everything you need to relax! It's all Inclusive, breakfast, lunch & dinner (with drinks too)
São Miguel, Azores
Jan 3-6
We have our first stop of the year on the island of São Miguel to have our first coffee!
- For 4 days and 3 nights we will be staying at an incredible 5-star hotel--Verde Mar & Spa
- With a day trip to Furnas and a few other stops along the way.
Hotel Verde Mar & Spa*****
Your Investment
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Your Investment with Madeira & Sao Miguel
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(based on double occupancy)
Single Supplement: $1,250 |
(based on double occupancy)
Single Supplement: $1,750 |
What's Included:
*Itinerary is subject to change without notice in order to accommodate weather, etc.
- Roundtrip airfare from Boston (Logan International Airport) with one luggage and one carryon
- 6/9 nights’ accommodation (depending on which package you choose) at either a 4-star hotel or 5-Star
- Welcome Dinner & Gala dinner/Celebration on New Year's Eve
- All Inclusive in Madeira Island. Sao Miguel Island: (3)Breakfast, (1) Lunch
- Air-conditioned bus for transfers and excursions according to the program
- 3-Excursions in Madeira, 1-Excursion in Sao Miguel, Azores
- Guide from Day 1 to Day 10, according to the program
- luxury Motorcoach bus with air conditioning for our excursions
- All legal taxes in Portugal
*Itinerary is subject to change without notice in order to accommodate weather, etc.
What’s Not-Included
- Alcoholic beverages in Sao Miguel (except wine at dinner time), non-included drinks, souvenir shopping and laundry services are not included.
- Also not included are: items of a personal nature such as, gifts, toll calls, excess baggage, medical costs, the costs of hospitalization and evacuation from remote areas, travel insurance and additional expenses arising from the delay or extension of a trip due to weather, political disputes, sickness, failure of transportation, or other causes beyond our control.
- Gratuities are not included.
- Tourist Tax (3 Euros per person per day)
- Other non-included items would be: any other activities, and tours not included in our package.
- Travel Insurance. We always recommend adding this protection to your trip. Please ask us for details.
