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“The Garden Island,” as Madeira is known to its residents, is a place of verdant mountain valleys, rare subtropical plants and overflowing flower markets. It’s a spot where biodiversity stuns the senses -- the scent of unique blooms, the trilling songs of native seabirds and the full-bodied taste of the local wines (created by island-grown grapes and the region’s ideal climate, of course) combine to create an intoxicating destination.

Visitors often find themselves in Funchal, the island capital. This is a compact, pedestrian-friendly town, perfect for a day of walking tours to shake off a cruise passenger’s sea legs. Local artisans line the streets with handmade wares for sale, with gifts ranging from delicate lacework to intricately woven wicker furniture. Those with time to leave the city might find themselves in nearby Camara de Lobos, a small fishing village and favorite vacation retreat of Winston Churchill.

Language: Portuguese     Currency: Euro (EUR)