Carnival IN Madeira
February 13 - 21, 2026 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Madeira has been described as the island of eternal spring and the island where summer goes to spend winter. Famous throughout the world for its natural beauty, this exotic Portuguese island is often called “the floating garden in the Atlantic.” Captain Cook, visiting Madeira in 1768, remarked that the island was “the recipient of Nature’s most liberal gifts.”
Nature has, in fact, been wildly extravagant—Birds of Paradise flower throughout the year, magenta bougainvillea cascades over ancient walls, and mimosa fills the air with its scent. Year round the temperature hovers around 70 degrees. In the hills above the capital of Funchal (where we’ll spend our nights) are two outstanding gardens—the Botanical Gardens, with terraced beds and greenhouses, and Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro, a private estate that’s open to the public. And these are just a sample of the stunning settings and gardens we’ll explore as we crisscross the island, experiencing the full range of Madeiran landscapes, from volcanic to tropical.
Last, but certainly not least, we spend an entire day dedicated to the Holiday of Carnival—The celebration of local art & culture, as well as the return of the bountiful growing season. With day-long parades, musical street performances, and delicious food stands, it is a truly spectacular event that should be experienced by everyone. This spring, join European Discoveries on a remarkable journey into the heart of Madeira.
Tour at a Glance:
Feb 13 – Evening departure from U.S. gateway city
Feb 14 – Arrive Funchal • Check in at Reid’s Palace • Dinner & Allegoric Carnival Parade
Feb 15 – Levada walk & Santana village • Afternoon tea • Dinner with Fado music
Feb 16 – Walking tour of Funchal • Mercado dos Lavradores • Embroidery house • Free evening
Feb 17 – Shrove Tuesday Carnival festivities • Slapstick Parade • Explore at leisure
Feb 18 – Quinta do Palheiro & Botanical Garden • Museum of Sacred Art • Cathedral Sé
Feb 19 – Blandy’s Wine Lodge tasting • Eira do Serrado & Nun’s Valley lookout
Feb 20 – Monte Palace Gardens • Optional toboggan ride • Farewell dinner at O Forte
Feb 21 – Transfer to airport • Return flights to U.S.
*Once you have submitted the above registration form with your digital signature, a European Discoveries staff member will be in contact as soon as possible to process your deposit and welcome you to the tour.