Funchal: Toboggan and Old Town Experience with Tukway

Funchal: Toboggan and Old Town Experience with Tukway

If you’re visiting Madeira and looking for a tour that combines local charm, scenic views, and a touch of adventure, this Funchal Tuk Tuk Tour with a toboggan ride might be just the ticket. The experience promises a whirlwind 2-hour journey through the historic streets of Funchal and Monte, topped off with the thrill of sliding down in a traditional toboggan—Carreiros do Monte—a historical transport used since the 1850s.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized private group aspect means your guide can tailor the experience, and you won’t be stuck with a giant bus load of people. Second, the expert local guides—like Andrea, who gets rave reviews—bring not just facts, but stories and humor that breathe life into the sights. The toboggan ride itself is a highlight, offering a fun mix of history, adrenaline, and local flavor.

A potential consideration is the extra cost for the toboggan tickets, which at €35 for two people isn’t included in the base price. If you’re eager to try this iconic local activity, plan ahead or prepare for the queue, as some reviewers mention about long wait times, especially later in the day. This tour offers an engaging way to see Funchal in a short time with a dash of local adventure.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Personalized private experience with a knowledgeable guide
• Authentic toboggan ride with the option to pay on-site (€35 for two)
• Highlights include Old Town’s painted doors, Monte’s church, and scenic viewpoints
• Flexible pickup and drop-off, including cruise ship terminals and hotels
• Great value for money considering the combination of sightseeing, history, and fun
• Ideal for those wanting a mix of history, culture, and adrenaline in a compact tour

Exploring Funchal’s Old Town and Monte in a Nutshell

This tour offers a well-rounded glance at Funchal’s most charming areas, starting in the Old Town, known locally as Santa Maria. I love how the streets are sprinkled with painted doors—a modern art project that transforms everyday entrances into vibrant murals. It’s a fantastic way to feel the city’s creative spirit and see a different side of Madeira’s architecture. The cobblestone streets and old façades make wandering feel like stepping back in time, yet with a lively, contemporary twist.

Your guide will point out gems and share fun facts, making the visit both educational and entertaining. From the reviews, it’s clear guides like Laura and Andrea excel at blending informative commentary with humor—one reviewer even mentions how Andrea went out of her way to make sure everyone had cash ready for the toboggan ride, showing their commitment to a smooth experience.

Next, your trip takes you up to Monte, a hilltop village with a striking church, Our Lady of the Mount, completed in 1818. I find it fascinating that this site is one of the most popular stops for both visitors and locals alike. The church’s stunning views and historic charm make it a worthwhile visit. From the reviews, many mention the ride up as scenic, with guides pointing out interesting viewpoints along the way.

The Thrill of the Toboggan Ride

The Carreiros do Monte are arguably the star of this experience. Originating in the 1850s as a quick way for locals to descend from Monte, these wooden sledges are pushed by experienced “carreiros” in crisp white uniforms. The ride itself lasts just a few minutes but delivers a rush of excitement, especially if you’ve never done anything like it before. Several reviewers highlight how fun and unique this old-fashioned transportation still is, with some mentioning that buying tickets on-site is convenient but queues can be long in busier times.

The Return to Funchal and Old Town Walk

After the adrenaline rush, your guide will bring you back down to Funchal, where a quick tour of the Old Town continues. Expect scenic viewpoints, historic buildings, and maybe even a quick stop at a traditional Poncha bar, as some reviews suggest. The stroll through Santa Maria and nearby streets offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the colorful doors and lively street scenes.

Logistics, Value, and Who Will Enjoy This Tour

This 2-hour private tour is priced mainly for the experience of a guided, personalized adventure. The pick-up and drop-off service—whether from your hotel or cruise ship—adds convenience that many travelers appreciate, especially after a morning of exploring or on a tight schedule. The blankets provided are a nice touch, helping keep you cozy during the scenic drives or waiting times.

Cost-wise, the base price covers the transportation, guide, and some scenic sightseeing, making it a good deal. The toboggan ride is an extra at €35 for two, which several reviewers agree is worth the splash of excitement. When you consider that guided tours often only cover a fraction of what you see on foot, this experience offers both value and a chance to see parts of Madeira you might miss on your own.

This tour is best suited for those who:

• Want a quick, comprehensive taste of Funchal’s Old Town and Monte
• Desire a fun, memorable activity like the toboggan ride
• Appreciate guided commentary and local insights
• Are comfortable with a short, mostly scenic drive and walking
• Don’t mind paying extra for the toboggan tickets and queues

It is less suitable for travelers with mobility issues, young children under 3, or those with large luggage, as the tour involves some walking and handling of small crowds.

Inside the Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting from your hotel or cruise ship, the tour begins with a scenic drive through Funchal’s streets. Expect the guide to point out notable sites, such as the painted doors on Santa Maria, and share stories that bring the area’s history alive. The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere make this part of the trip engaging, especially for those who love authentic street scenes.

Next, you’ll ascend to Monte in a comfortable tuk tuk, with the driver skillfully navigating narrow streets and scenic viewpoints. As you go, the guide will highlight points of interest—these might include historic buildings, local anecdotes, or panoramic vistas. In reviews, guides like Luis, Andrea, and Fabio are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep everyone entertained.

At Monte, you’ll visit the Church of Our Lady of the Mount. This 19th-century structure is not only beautiful but also offers sweeping views over Funchal. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted with an air of tranquility and a chance to admire the architecture and religious art.

The toboggan ride then comes into play. For €35 per couple, you can experience a traditional transport method that has been around since the 1850s. Many reviewers describe it as a “blast” and a “must-do” for visitors wanting a little thrill and a lot of local flavor. You’ll be placed in a wooden sledge, pushed by a professional carreiro, and rush down the winding streets—an experience that’s both exhilarating and steeped in history.

Returning to Funchal, your guide continues the tour with brief stops in the old town, pointing out colorful doors, lively cafes, and scenic viewpoints. Some reviews mention other highlights, like a quick visit to a local farmers market or a stop for traditional Poncha, Madeira’s iconic sugarcane spirit.

The Guide and Personal Touches

From the feedback, guides like Andrea, Luis, and Fabio shine because they are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share local insights. Several reviews mention how guides went above and beyond—whether by lending cash when needed or offering personal anecdotes that make the experience memorable. The live commentary in English ensures you grasp the stories behind each site, adding depth to the sightseeing.

The small group size and private nature mean your experience feels more intimate and flexible. If you want to spend more time at certain viewpoints or avoid crowds, your guide can usually accommodate.

Price, Duration, and Practical Tips

At just 2 hours, this tour is a manageable snapshot of Funchal and Monte. Given the inclusion of hotel or cruise ship pickup, scenic drives, and a guided walk, it offers good value—especially considering the extra cost for the toboggan ride. If you’re a thrill-seeker or eager to experience a piece of local history in an active way, the €35 fee is a small price to pay for the fun and memories.

Timing is flexible—check availability for the starting times that suit your schedule. Be sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring your camera for the photo stops. Remember, luggage or large bags are not allowed on the tour, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a blend of sightseeing, local history, and adventure. It suits those with moderate mobility who are comfortable walking and waiting in queues. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an engaging, personalized experience that isn’t just a big bus tour.

It’s especially good for first-timers who want to get a taste of Funchal’s vibrant streets, the scenic beauty of Monte, and the thrill of riding the traditional toboggans. If you enjoy stories from enthusiastic guides, lively street scenes, and a dash of adrenaline, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

If you’re traveling with children, just note that kids under 3 aren’t suited for this experience, and the toboggans may require some coordination for younger children.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides an authentic slice of Madeira’s local culture, history, and scenery, all wrapped into a compact, fun package. The combination of guided sightseeing, scenic drives, and the iconic toboggan ride creates a memorable experience without feeling rushed. You’ll love the friendly guides, the picturesque streets, and the thrill of sliding down in a traditional sledge.

It’s a great choice for curious travelers eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, especially if they’re up for a bit of fun. The tour’s value lies in its mix of personal service, local insights, and the chance to do something unforgettable—like riding down the winding streets in a wooden sledge. For anyone wanting a lively, informative, and slightly adventurous taste of Funchal, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal, making it very convenient for cruise travelers.

Can I buy tickets for the toboggans in advance? You pay for the toboggans separately on site, typically €35 for two people, and many reviewers suggest buying tickets early to avoid long queues.

How long does the toboggan ride last? The actual ride is brief but exhilarating—just a few minutes—though the overall experience includes the ascent, the ride itself, and the guided sightseeing.

What should I wear? Dress in weather-appropriate clothing; consider layers, especially if the weather is unpredictable or cool.

Is the tour good for families? It’s suitable for most ages, but children under 3 and those with mobility issues may find it less accessible. The toboggan ride can be a fun family activity, but supervision is necessary.

Are food and drinks included? No, food and drinks are not included, but your guide may recommend local spots or stops along the way.

This Funchal tour offers a lively, genuine experience that blends history, scenery, and local tradition. It’s a small adventure packed into a short time—one that many reviews say is well worth the price, especially for the authentic thrill of the toboggans. Whether you’re after a quick taste of Madeira or a memorable highlight, this tour balances fun and discovery beautifully.