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42 Madeira Travel Tips (make the best of your trip!)

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Planning a trip to Madeira? What a wonderful choice of destination! Below are my best Madeira travel tips to make the most of your time:

  • Tips to plan your trip
  • Tips to get around Madeira
  • Tips on accommodations and where to stay
  • Tips on the best things to do and recommendations to experience them

All you need to plan your travels around Madeira island! Your complete guide.

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Madeira:

madeira travel youtube

My favorite platform to rent a car in Madeira: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Catamaran tour to go whale watching

My favorite excursion from Funchal:   4×4 tour of East Madeira

MMy favorite places to stay in Funchal:  Les Suites at the Cliff Bay  (Luxury) –  Sé Boutique Hotel  (4 stars) –  Market Place by Storytellers  (apartments)

My favorite places to stay outside Funchal:  Saccharum Resort  near a beach (Luxury) –  Estalagem da Ponta do Sol  (4 stars) –  Engho Velho Hotel  (mid-range)

Guide Madeira Travel Tips Pin

5 Madeira travel tips to help with planning / itinerary

#1 – choose the best time to visit madeira for you.

Madeira is a year-round destination with pleasant temperatures. You can enjoy its charm in any season… but, if there are things you prefer, some seasons are better than others. It depends on what you are looking for: 

  • Crowds – Because Madeira does not have many sandy beaches, it does not get as crowded as other islands in Micronesia – However, you will find more tourists during the Summer and during the school holidays of Europe, as well as during Christmas
  • Weather – The temperatures are pleasant and overall stable throughout the year. Winter will have lower temperature (especially at night) but not that low. And the Winter will be rainier, but not that much! June is the drier month – but March to September is the dry season.
  • Waterfalls –  Since Winter is a little bit rainier, it is the best season to appreciate the waterfall. In Summer, some of them can dry up, and you could be disappointed after hiking…
  • Flowers in the gardens –  Madeira is famous for its flowers and gardens. The best time is Spring (en March, April and May). However, if you have allergies, avoid those months…
  • Whales and dolphins –  Madeira offers boat tours on the South shore to find whales and dolphins. We can see them year-round, but the largest populations are between May and September.

Learn more on my article about the best time to travel to Madeira . Or check out my article about Madeira in Winter .

Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro

#2 – Plan at least 10 days – How long to plan to visit Madeira

Don’t visit for a long weekend. The island is far from Europe and landings can be delayed because of wind.

The island is not that big. From Funchal you can reach almost all destinations within 1h, thanks to the many tunnels. The minimum to visit Madeira is a week, but I really think that 10 days is a better timeframe. With only one week, you would have to rush your experience or make some choices of places to see. 

I think the best length for your Madeira trip is between 10 days and 2 weeks (and more if you want to explore the island of Porto Santo as well).

Below is a map with the main driving times to give you perspective:

Madeira driving times - map

#3 – Don’t plan a guided tour on your first day

Madeira has one of the most notorious landing strip in Europe. It is not too dangerous, but it gets windy and the approach is special. Pilots must have a special training to land here. Once in a while, there is too much wind to land safely. In that case, planes might not take off or might have to land on another island or back to Portugal. In that case, you will have to take a later flight.

Therefore, you should not book a tour on the first day, in case your arrival is delayed.

Island of Madeira from the plane

#4 – Don’t expect sandy dreamy beaches 

Don’t go to Madeira is order to spend your days at the beach. This is not the destination for that. Most beaches on the island are pebble beaches. There is very little sand. If you won’t expect it, you won’t be disappointed. The island it magnificent and there is plenty to do. Just not that.

Praia Formosa

#5 – Plan some flexibility to adapt to the weather

Madeira is an island in the middle of the Atlantic, with tall mountains. Therefore, it stops the clouds. If you are looking for the sun during your Madeira travels, I recommend planning some flexibility, so that you can check the weather and the webcams and pick the less cloudy area of the island for the half day.

In my planning, I had gathered locations by half a day so that I could decide where to go next. Check out my maps in my eBook to help you group the best locations:

Plan your dream trip in Madeira thanks to my guide

eBook Travel Guide Mallorca

  • 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
  • 120+ pre-selected locations
  • GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
  • Tips to make the most of your time
  • 260+ original photos to help you choose

5 Tips to travel around Madeira

#6 – don’t have a car if staying in funchal.

If you plan on staying in Funchal, don’t rent a car. Parking is not easy, unless your hotel or accommodations has a parking space for you. You could rent a car to explore the island and give it back before finishing your trip in Funchal.

#7 – Rent a car to see hidden gems and secret places

It is possible to explore some areas without a car: There are guided tours , “safaris” and taxi tours that can take you to the most famous places. But Madeira is so much more than that! There are so many viewpoints, stunning roads and hidden gems to discover… I really think renting a car is the best way to discover the island.

Miradouro do Cortado

#8 – Rent a car with enough power

However, note that if you are renting a car, you should not choose the smallest, cheapest one. You need something with enough power so as not to worry. There are very, very, very steep roads on this island!  A Peugeot 208, for example, is a great option.

Get more tips on my article about renting a car in Madeira.

Driving up in Madeira

#9 – Compare prices

I have seen big variations of prices for car rentals on the island. I wanted to book with MadeiraRent because they have a great reputation. But, every time, I found much better prices for their cars on Discovercars.com compared to their direct website! Not sure why… Anyway,  Discovercars.com is one of the best customer-rated comparison sites – you can choose the car and rental company. Plus, they propose a full coverage option – I always take it for peace of mind! 

Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

#10 – Don’t be afraid of driving in Madeira

I am still baffled by a lot of the comments online that driving in Madeira is not for the fainthearted. But remember that all the people that found it overall easy, like me, will not take the time to write down that they had no problems.

Driving in Madeira - difficult?

Yes, for Americans, the roads will seem narrow. Yes, the roads are sometimes steep. Yes, the roads are winding around the mountains. Yes, there are lots of tunnels…

  • There is not much traffic – so you can take your time on those mountain roads
  • They have built bumper level walls or protection on the side of the road almost everywhere. 

Let me tell you: I don’t like winding road with emptiness on one side, but here I have never felt in danger because I knew there was always the protection to tell me I was too close. I actually really enjoyed driving in Madeira.

The main issue is parking. And as the island becomes more and more popular, it will not improve…

Check out my complete article on renting a car and driving in Madeira (with video) .

5 Madeira accommodation tips

#11 – one accommodation or several.

As I wrote earlier, most destination around the island are less than 1h away from Funchal. The island is not that big, and thanks to the tunnels, you can avoid long roads up and down mountains. However, I do recommend booking at least 2 different accommodations to enjoy different aspects of Madeira and to reduce you travel times (especially if you want to see the sunrises).

I think the best option is:

  • half the trip with accommodation on the East side
  • and half the trip with accommodation on the West side

But you can also enjoy a road trip or stay in just one place. It depends on what you are looking for during your holidays.

From my hotel in Porto da Cruz

#12 – Should you stay in Funchal?

If you enjoy trying various restaurants, then Funchal is the best place for you. If you don’t want to rent a car, then Funchal is the best place for you. If you want to visit many museums, then Funchal is the best place for you. If you are looking for luxury resorts, then the Funchal / Lido area is the best place for you.

Otherwise, Funchal may not be the best choice because:

  • parking is difficult, 
  • it is more crowded,
  • It means driving through the city to get anywhere else on the island.

See my article about where to stay in Funchal .

Beautiful streets of Funchal

#13 – Best areas to stay in Madeira

Well, there is no absolute best places to stay in Madeira. It depends on what you are looking for. Below are some of my recommendations:

  • For a large choice of restaurants and if you don’t rent a car – Check out the best rated accommodations in Funchal
  • For luxury resorts,  check out the Lido area in Funchal
  • For a good mix with sandy beach, restaurants, and easy access to Madeira East –  Check out the best rated accommodations in Machico
  • For a quiet village in beautiful scenery and the sounds of wave to fall asleep – Check out the best rated accommodations in Porto da Cruz
  • For a practical location to explore the entire island by car –  Check out the best rated accommodation in Arco da Calheta
  • To enjoy the natural pools –  Check out the best rated accommodation in Porto Moniz

More tips on my article about where to stay in Madeira

#14 – Choose accommodation with swimming pool

As I wrote earlier, the beaches in Madeira are not dreamy ones with sand. But it can get hot in the afternoon. It is nice to enjoy a swim after a day exploring the coast and mountains. It is especially enjoyable if you are hiking as it will relax your muscles.

Hotel swimming pool

#15 – Always check the parking situation

This is mostly if you are staying on the South coast, in popular places.  Parking in Funchal, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, Camara dos Lobos can be difficult. So make sure you check what the hotel writes in regards to parking.

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

madeira travel youtube

5 Tips to experience Madeira and make the most of your time

#16 – wake up early to see sunrises.

I know that on holidays, sleeping in is a must for some. But those sunrises above the clouds are just phenomenal. A truly amazing experience. You should make the effort at least once. Pico do Arieiro is the easiest place to enjoy it, as you don’t need to hike.

Sunrise pico do Arieiro

#17 – Get the cheap Madeiraweather app

However, I recommend making sure that the summits are going to be above the clouds before deciding to go up there early morning. For that, there is a cheap app called Madeiraweather. Contrary to other apps, it includes Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo so you can check the forecast for the next morning. Of course, it is a forecast and cannot be 100% sure. But it is good guidance. I used it a lot.

#18 – Is Madeira safe? Be aware of scams

Overall, Madeira is a safe destination. There is a low crime rate, not much pickpocketing and few scams. That being said, you should always be careful, like everywhere else. Regarding scam there is one famous one: at the Mercado dos Lavradores. Some of the fruit sellers tend to overcharge tourists. There has been lots of noise about it recently, so maybe it is going to change. Otherwise, make sure to always ask the taxi driver to use the meter.

 Mercado dos Lavradores

#19 – Hike early or late

There are many wonderful hikes to enjoy on the island. But most of them are along levadas, which are irrigation systems. The paths are not wide and hikes are not loops. I recommend hiking early or late, not only for the weather, but to avoid most of the other tourists. I did 2 hikes where I was the first one on the trail in the morning and I could enjoy the peace and quiet. And I had to cross path with other walkers only on my way back. See my article with the best hikes in Madeira and hiking tips .

Levada walk

#20 – Carry cash

Many places accept credit cards on the island. However, there are a few cases when you will need coins: 

  • to pay for parking on the machines along the South Coast (Ponta do Sol, Ribeira Brava, Camara dos Lobos…)
  • to pay for some of the cable cars
  • for a few restaurants off the beaten path

18 Things to do in Madeira Tips – not to be missed

#21 – ride at least one cable car.

Madeira has impressive cliffs. There are many viewpoints to admire them from the top. But in some places, you can also take cable cars down to water level to enjoy a walk at the bottom of those giants. My 2 favorite cable cars are:

  • Rocha do Navio, in Santana – best views and waterfalls
  • Teleferico das Achadas da Cruz near Porto Moniz – the steepest in Europe according to their sign (it is quite impressive)

Learn more in my article about the Madeira cable cars .

Achadas da Cruz cable car

#22 – Do at least one levada walk

As I wrote earlier, Levadas are traditional irrigation systems that take the water from the top of the mountains to the plantations. Walking paths allow you to follow them, and those hikes are called Levada Walks. Some of the most famous are:

  • 25 Fontes from Rabaçal – it leads to a pool with a crying wall full of tiny falls
  • Caldeirao Verde – it leads to a tall waterfall

As you walk, you will enjoy the lush scenery that surrounds them. And look into the water, because sometimes you can see a fish. I am not kidding; I have photos to prove it!

See my article about the best hikes and levada walks .

25 fontes levada walk

#23 – Do at least one swim in natural pools

Madeira may not have wonderful beaches, but you can still enjoy unique swimming experiences. In some areas, the lava rocks have created natural pools that get filled by sea water during high tide. My favorite natural pools are:

  • Porto Moniz (the free ones, not the modified ones)

Such a wonderful experience to admire the rocks and the views of the lush mountains in the background.

Learn more in my article about the best natural pools in Madeira .

Porto Moniz Natural pools

#24 – Do admire the North coast

Many tourists only visit the famous places on the South coast. However, in my opinion, the North coast is way more beautiful. It is wilder. It is home to some of the best viewpoints on the island. For example, this is where you can discover this impressive rock formation called Penha de Aguia (which reaches 590m – 1935ft)

Miradouro da Portela

#25 – Go up to the Madeira mountains

Madeira is not all about the coastline and the cliffs. In the middle are jagged peaks that are magnificent.From some trails, you can see the sea on both sides! For some areas, it requires hiking. But thanks to the observatory, it is very easy to drive up to Pico do Arieiro and enjoy the views. From there you can just enjoy the viewpoint or you can hike as much as you want on the famous trail: Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo.

Madeira Mountains

#26 – Be fascinated by the volcanic history

The island of Madeira is at the top of a massive shield volcano. It was created around 7 million years ago. The most recent volcanic period dates back 6000 to 7000 years ago. One of the best places to appreciate its volcanic history it is Ponta de Sao Lourenço. This is the dragon tail of Madeira: a bare landscape with high cliffs. There is a hiking trail to explore it and you can walk as much or as little as you want. I recommend walking at least the first section, as it is mesmerizing.

Ponta de Sao Louranço hike

#27 – Appreciate the high cliffs Cabo Girao or alternative

One of the most famous attractions on the island is Cabo Girao. The cape, standing 589m (1932ft) above sea water, is the tallest in Europe. Locals have built a skywalk with glass to better appreciate the height. To be honest, I was not a huge fan of the skywalk. It felt very touristy.But I took the cable car down (3km away from the walk) and I really enjoyed the cliffs from the bottom as you can many volcanic features. Another option is to take one of the catamaran tours to see dolphins as they take you swimming at the bottom of those cliffs (see further down). Learn more in my Cabo Girao article .

Cabo Girao skywalk

#28 – Find secret places

If you rent a car , you can discover some hidden gems all around this island. At some of them you may be alone, only meet locals or cross path with only a few like-minded travelers. Some of my favorites include:

  • Calhau da Lapa
  • Achadas da Cruz
  • Banana Route in Madalena do Mar

Check out by favorite Madeira “secret” places .

Calhau da Lapa

Find all my favorite places to see in Madeira in my guide to help you plan an amazing trip:

#29 – Book a whale watching and dolphin boat tour from Funchal

Madeira is also famous for its population of whales and dolphins surrounding the island . They can be spotted all year round, but the best time is May to September. Many companies offer boat tours from Funchal either:

  • on speedboats,
  • on a pirate boat,
  • on small catamarans,
  • on larger catamarans

Check out some boat tour options .

I enjoyed the small catamaran one as it was less crowded and we also went swimming at the bottom of the impressive cliffs of Cabo Girao. This is one of the best boat tours in Madeira .

Dolphin boat tour Madeira

#30 – Visit at least one garden

Madeira is a lush island. The volcanic land is fertile. And, especially around Funchal, beautiful gardens have been designed.

In my opinion, the best one is hands-down the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. You could spend an entire day there. There is a museum, tile works, water features, bridges, ponds… It is a feast for the eyes and for the camera. Just know that the garden is on a hill, so the walk is up and down. But you can pay extra for golf carts to take you to some places.

Monte Palace Tropical Garden

#31 – Madeira beaches – Choose the one for you

I do think the natural pools are a better experience, but if you want to spend some time at the beach, there are a few to choose from:

  • Imported golden sand – Machico or Calheta
  • Natural black sand – Seixal or Prainha
  • Pebbles – Praia Formosa, Ponta do Sol…

Learn more in my article about the best beaches in Madeira .

Machico beach

#32 – Enjoy the food and drinks

People who love gastronomy won’t be disappointed. Highlights of the Madeira Cuisine include:

  • Estepada – skewers cooked on laurel wood
  • Balo fo Caco – typical local bread
  • Seafood – you are in the middle of the ocean.. there is a lot of seafood to try – try the famous lapas
  • Espada or black scabbard fish with banana
  • Tropical fruits
  • Pastel de nata – traditional Portuguese dessert.

Pastel de nata

#33 – Try local drinks

Madeira is also famous for 2 types of drinks:

  • Madeira wine – a unique production with higher alcohol content
  • Poncha – traditional alcoholic drink from sugar cane rum

#34 – Know the reality of the Desertas islands tour

Next to Madeira islands are 3 smaller ones called the Desertas islands. You may see them as you approach by plane or as you drive on the East coast. It is a nature reserve famous for its rare seals and giant tarantulas.

There are excursions heading there, but let me share with you the reality. They mostly market the fact that it is a nature reserve. But on this day trip, you will spend 6h sailing on the catamaran (3h in each direction) with wind making you cold and waves crashing on you once in a while.  Once there, you won’t see any seals because they are living in another part of the island where boats are not allowed and all you will do is go for a 10min walk to look at boards and learn a bit more about the islands. The volcanic rocks are beautiful, but I don’t think it is worth the 6h on a boat, unless you love that part too.

Desertas islands

#35 – Collect viewpoints

Maybe what I love the most about Madeira is that locals have set up viewpoints almost everywhere.  It is absolutely fantastic to be driving on a road with magnificent views and finding a spot to park and take the time to enjoy it. It is not in every country. Those viewpoints are called Miradouros. Below is a fantastic example. It is Miradouro do Paradeo. It overlooks the impressive Valley of the Nuns (Curral das Freiras). See my selection of the 21 best viewpoints in Madeira .

Miradouro do Paradeo

#36 – Choose your museums

In Funchal, there are museums for everyone’s taste. The most famous is probably the CR7  dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo. And just outside you can find the statue of the famous soccer player. But you can also find small but interesting museums about:

  • Madeira history
  • Photography
  • Wine production and history
  • Optical illusions
  • Decorative arts

And outside of Funchal you can find museums about whales (in Caniçal), geology (in Sao Vicente), sugar cane factories…

CR7 museum

#37 – Do something unique

If you are looking for the most Madeiran things to do on the Island, it is probably the toboggan sled ride. It is a thrilling traditional ride: the descent from Monte to Livramento in a basket sledge led by 2 men. The transportation system dates back to the early 19th century.

Madeira sled ride

#38 – If you are staying longer than 10 days, consider Porto Santo

As I wrote earlier, I think you need at least 10 days to see the entire island of Madeira from mountains to lava rocks and beaches. But if you have longer, why not consider heading to Porto Santo, the other inhabited island of the archipelago. It is small (11km (6,8mi) long by 6km (3,7mi) wide) and can be easily explored. 2 options:

  • You can do a day trip with the ferry to Porto Santo in the morning and the return in the evening (2h30 in each direction) – companies offer bus tours to the main attractions during the day – check out a complete day trip option from Funchal
  • You can plan 3 days to go relax, explore and enjoy the sandy beach

Porto Santo’s highlights include:

  • a 9km (5.6mi) long sandy beach
  • Giant organ pipes formations
  • a mini desert with sand dunes
  • Great viewpoints

Note that I also listed the best things to do in my eBook about Madeira.

Porto Santo

For more ideas, head to my article about the best things to do in Madeira and my itinerary articles:   3 days ,  4 days ,  5 days ,  1 week ,  10 days

Madeira Travel guide – prepare & pack for a Madeira Trip

#39 – what to pack for madeira (outside of hiking).

The list of things to pack is quite typical, but remember that the island is not tropical. There is a variation in weather.

Plus, one hour you can be by the beach at 25°C (77°F) and 1h later you can be at the top of the mountains at 1800m above sea level, where temperatures drop… The best options is to bring layers.

You can refer to my overall travel checklists that include packing lists.

Just don’t forget:

  • Swimsuit to enjoy the incredible natural pools
  • Sunscreen – you can easily burn there!
  • Binoculars to see all the amazing summits and see better the whales and dolphins – check out my article to help you choose your binoculars
  • Adapter if you are not using 2 round 220V plugs

madeira travel youtube

Binoculars to admire all the details in the scenery ( see my guide )

madeira travel youtube

Adapter to charge all your equipments

#40 – Pack for walking / hiking

My recommendations are:

  • a day pack – my favorites are the Osprey with their good aeration in the back (I have a Tempest 20L and my brother has the Talon)
  • lightweight hiking shoes (do not go on those levada walks with flip-flops!!!! they can be slippery)
  • Water bottle / water pouch
  • Clothing for warming up
  • Clothing for the wind, e.g. softshell jacket – see some options
  • Clothing for the rain (or combined with wind protection)
  • A headlamp – on some hikes you must go through dark tunnels. phone lamps cannot be sufficient. A good headlamp makes the crossing more comfortable – see some options .
  • Thermal blanket – I never travel without one. In case of accident, keeping warm is essential.
  • And since I hike alone, I also take with me a Garmin inReach Mini for added security – I take the lowest monthly subscription for one month, just to be able to use the emergency service button.

madeira travel youtube

See all Osprey backpacks options

madeira travel youtube

Thermal Blanket. They don’t take a lot of space and it is safer to have one when hiking, just in case. See emergency blankets

madeira travel youtube

Learn more about the Garmin inReach Mini

#41 – Bring the right camera gear for Madeira

Nothing really special for a trip to Madeira. You should consider water protection if you go on a dolphin watch boat tour, or on some hikes where waterfalls are falling on the track. I personally just bought a camera that is entirely sealed, which is quite a relief. And I use a lense with a wide range to take landscapes and also zoom in on animals or details. I have:

  • Olympus EM1 MarkIII
  • 12-100 IS lens
  • Extra Batteries
  • A camera clip to relieve my neck and carry the camera on the strap of my backpack – I love soooooooo much!!!!! It works with all cameras.

madeira travel youtube

Olympus EM1 Mark III with 12-100 lens

madeira travel youtube

Peak design Capture Clip

#42 – Learn a few words of Portuguese

Locals always appreciate when people try speaking a few words of their language:

  • Hello – Olà
  • Excuse me – Desculpe!
  • Welcome – Ben Vinda
  • I am sorry – Sinto Muito
  • Please – Por Favor
  • Thank you – Obrigado (male) or Obrigada (female)

Want to see more of the best Madeira offers?

  • Where to stay in Madeira – best areas – read article
  • The best landscapes in Madeira in 40 pictures – read article
  • The 7 cables cars in Madeira and their amazing views – read article
  • The 7 best hikes and levada walks in Madeira – read article
  • All you need to know to rent a car and drive in Madeira – read article
  • The 18 best beaches in Madeira –  read article

Planning a trip to Madeira?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

Madeira travel Journal

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One Week on Madeira Island, Portugal: The Ultimate Itinerary

Astrid was the Senior Special Projects Editor at TripSavvy.

madeira travel youtube

Comprised of two inhabited islands, Madeira and Porto Santos, and the uninhabited islets of Desertas and Selvagens, the Portuguese islands of Madeira have long been shrouded in mystery, hidden in the shadows of Portugal's neighboring Azores archipelago. Located just 500 miles from the African coast, the volcanic islands were discovered by the Portuguese in 1420 and became critical agricultural hotspots, producing a variety of fruits, wheat, and sugar cane.

Today, the more oversized island of Madeira is primarily associated with Madeira wine, the beverage chosen to toast the Declaration of Independence—American President Thomas Jefferson was said to have ordered 3,500 bottles during his first year in office. For some, Madeira is better known as the home of international football star Cristiano Ronaldo, who was born in the island's capital city of Funchal; the island's main airport is named in his honor, and a centrally located museum celebrates his life.

Regardless of how you come to discover Madeira, once you land, you'll be transported to an otherworldly place. From lush waterfalls and thick forests to scenic viewpoints and incredible hikes, the island is full of things to see and do despite its small size. With consistently warm temperatures throughout the year, there's never a bad time to visit.

One week is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of what the main island of Madeira has to offer, allowing you to see some of the highlights that make this destination so beautiful. There is no need to shuffle from hotel to hotel—you will easily be able to make the capital city of Funchal your home base for your time on the island, as all destinations are less than an hour away by car. Planning a trip? This helpful itinerary is a great place to start.

Day 1: Funchal

Touch down at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, named after Madeira's most famous son. You'll be seeing a lot of Ronaldo's likeness around his birth city of Funchal, but an infamous bust, which was commissioned to depict him upon the renaming of the airport in 2017, will not be among them. The statue, which became controversial at its unveiling due to its lack of likeness to the footballer, was removed in 2018. An unnamed Spanish artist created a new version, which you can see as you exit arrivals, directly opposite the taxi area.

Drop your bags off at the luxurious Savoy Palace , featuring design-forward interiors, three pools, and several excellent restaurants, and head to Blandy's Wine Lodge to kick off your trip with a taste of the island's famous fortified wine. Madeira has a long winemaking history that dates back to the 15th century, and this sweet wine is one of the few wines that hasn't changed since it was invented over 300 years ago when it was fortified to survive voyages at sea.

Afterward, head to Funchal's Old Town and peruse the island's famous painted doors, which line the colorful streets of Rua da Santa Maria. Here, you can hop on the Madeira cable car , which will take you on a scenic 15-minute ride to the parish of Monte. Spend time exploring the lush Monte Palace Tropical Gardens , the closest you'll get to the rainforest outside of South America, then walk over to the church of Our Lady of Monte, where you can experience a staple of Madeira's culture: the carreiros do Monte or the sledge cars of Monte. Dating back to the 1850s, these wicker toboggans were the only way residents traveled downhill in Madeira's capital city. Hold your valuables tight—your journey downhill will be speedy and exhilarating. To end your day, head to dinner at Galaxia Skyfood on the top floor of your hotel for breathtaking views, a sophisticated wine list, and excellent seafood.

Day 2: Funchal and Camara de Lobos

Wake up early to experience the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak on the island. At almost 6,000 feet high, you'll be able to catch jaw-dropping views of the entire island while feeling like clouds are hugging you. Afterward, reward yourself with a refreshing poncha, the traditional drink of Madeira, at John's Poncha . Made of honey, lemon juice, and distilled alcohol made from sugar cane, this potent drink will wake you up and get you ready for a morning hike, or "levada," to the Balcões viewpoint. Here you'll see stunning vistas of the Ribeira da Meetade valley below, as well as the two highest peaks on the island, Pico Ruivo and Pico das Torres. Rainbows are frequent in this spot, so make sure to have your camera at the ready.

Nearby, Camada de Lobos, a quaint fishing town, will provide the perfect island atmosphere to relax after a busy morning. The waterfront here is one of Madeira's most picturesque, sprinkled with inland cliffs, colorful fishing boats, and locals enjoying a refreshing poncha. From here, queue up a trip to Fajã dos Padres . Impossible to reach by road, the only way down to this organic farm is via a cable car (yes, you'll be experiencing many of these on the island). Walk through a pathway lined with mangoes, bananas, and pairs to the farm's restaurant, where you'll be rewarded with a meal sourced from the surrounding sea.

Day 3: Curral da Freiras

Thrill-seekers are in for a treat today. Madeira is considered one of the best places in the world to go canyoning, which involves swimming, jumping, and rappelling in beautiful waterfalls. For those truly looking to get in touch with the island's beautiful nature, there's no better activity to get an exclusive look at Madeira's hidden geologic wonders. Given that the island is filled with waterfalls, there are many canyoning destinations to choose from, but Ribeira das Cales in the mountainous Funchal Ecological Park is a great option. Bring a towel and water shoes—you're guaranteed to get soaked.

Dry off, enjoy a poncha, and head to Ponta Do Sol, a popular municipality with young people and the island opened a digital nomad village for remote workers here in 2021. From here, travelers can make the journey down to Curral da Freiras. Translated to "The Nun's Valley," it takes around 20 minutes to reach the quaint village, where guests will enjoy the countryside and quaint houses typical of the Madeiran society.

Day 4: Porto Moniz

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Time for a beach day! Porto Moniz is home to one of the island's most popular destinations, the incredibly photogenic natural swimming pools. Formed by an ancient volcanic eruption and made out of volcanic rock, they're the perfect spot to splash around as the Atlantic Ocean's brisk waves burst over the pool walls. The pools' entrance fee of 1.50 euros grants you full-day access, and changing rooms, as well as a café, are on site.

While many tourists come to Porto Moniz primarily for the pools, the rest of the town is certainly worth exploring. The region—which was best known for whaling—sits a bit out of the way, on the northwestern tip of the island, but its towering mountains and scenic roads provide some of Madeira's most beautiful coastline views. If you have a few extra hours and want to learn more about how the island's volcanoes influenced its landscape, head to the São Vicente Caves and Volcanism Center , where you can experience the first volcanic caves to be opened to the public in Portugal.

Day 5: Chão da Ribeira and Laurisilva Forest

Madeira boasts some of the most jaw-dropping waterfalls in Europe, and there's no better day than today to experience some of its best. Head to Chão da Ribeira, a lush town located in the Seixal valley, a local reserve for traditional agriculture. Known to locals as "The Sanctuary," it's also home to a stunning hike that will have you pass under several majestic waterfalls as you make your way through the surrounding greenery. Note that this hike—which runs around six miles and should take you about four hours to complete—does not have many signs, so it may be best to go with a local guide.

While hiking, you'll be immersed in the island's ancient Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Laurisilva sweeps across northern and central Madeira and dates back to ancient times—which means it has survived the age of dinosaurs and over 600 years of human habitation. Here you'll find at least 76 types of native plants, as well as rare endemic animal species such as the Madeiran long-toed pigeon. First discovered by Portuguese explorer João Gonçalves Zarco in 1419, it's hands down one of the best places on the island to soak in Madeira's history.

Day 6: Santana

One of Madeira's most eye-catching destinations, the town of Santana on the island's north coast is where you can find perhaps the most emblematic image of Madeira: its colorful thatched houses, or "palheiros." These architectural delights date back to the 16th century and contain just one or two rooms, where farming families lived during the settling of the island. The ornate buildings are uninhabited, but some have been converted into shops surrounded by lovely gardens. This is a great town to walk around in and take photos; you're bound to find travelers snapping shots in front of the many colorful doors.

After spending time at the houses, head to Santana's São Jorge Ruins, a prime example of the town's history. Dating back to 1515, these ruins once belonged to an old sugarcane mill; the entrance to the ruins is considered one of the most significant examples of ancient architecture on the island and was named a Monument of Municipal interest in 2003. End your day with a wine tasting in the town's Vine and Wine Museum , which celebrates the history of viticulture on the island alongside selling homemade loaves of bread and pastries.

Day 7: Porto da Cruz and Machico

It's your final day on Madeira, so it's best to make the most of it. Start your morning at the Engenhos do Norte , a small steam-powered rum distillery where you can sip on (free!) tastings of local rum and witness just how vital sugar cane has been to the island's culture and economy. Here, you can get up close with each production stage of some of Madeira's internationally acclaimed rums. The factory workers maintain and keep the distillery's equipment fully operational: it's sure to feel like a treat, as steam-powered distilling is a rarity in modern times.

End your week in Machico, the second-largest city on the island. Charming and relaxed, the town's old quarter is an excellent spot for sipping a coffee while people watching. After you peruse the town's charming boutique shops, you can pop in and out of a few of Machico's many cultural delights, such as the 15th-century Gothic architecture of the Igreja Matriz de Machico church and the Solar do Ribeirinho , a museum displaying Madeiran relics and artifacts from 400 years ago and beyond. It's the perfect spot to wind down after a busy week exploring one of Europe's most underrated gems.

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Full Guide and Things To Do in Madeira: A 5-Day Itinerary for Off-Season Travel

madeira travel youtube

One of the first catchphrases you’ll notice when you google anything about traveling to Madeira is how often it’s described as the “Hawaii of Europe” promising year-round spring weather. When deciding on my annual Thanksgiving travels, I figured it would be the ideal off-season destination with fewer crowds, yet still pleasant temperatures. Most travel blogs reassured me that this was a good idea.

In my itinerary below, I will talk about my experience of visiting Maderia in December and why it will not give you the full island experience that you are probably expecting. While I am not trying to discourage you 100% from visiting during that time, I hope my experience will better prepare you compared to what I was expecting. If I knew what I’d see and what I’d miss out on, I’d plan my itinerary totally differently than how I did. That’s what I hope to give you with this post, an off – season-optimized Madeira itinerary. To compare, a couple of years back, I visited Madeira’s southern neighbor Tenerife, during a similar time . My off-season vacation there was much better in terms of weather even though geographically, these two islands are pretty close.

While this itinerary tells you additional information about traveling to Madeira off-season, you can use it all year round to plan your travels too.

At the end of the post, you can download this guide as well as a map for your travels.

Traveling to Lisbon as well? Don’t forget to check out my Lisbon guide!

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Madeira Logistics

Best time to visit madeira.

Let me just cut to the chase and tell you that if you want to experience all of Madeira, off-season time considered between November and April, might not be the best choice. Despite a lot of resources telling you that Madeira could be a year-round destination, I would argue otherwise. By visiting between May to late September, you’re maximizing your chances for clear skies and good temperatures.

There are some pros, however, to visiting during the off-season as I did. You will save on flights, accommodation, and car rental and you’ll avoid the crowds that come with the vacation season in Maderia. Although most attractions won’t be closed you might not be able to see everything, especially if the weather isn’t great.

Suggested length of stay

How long you will stay depends on what you’d like to do there. For example, some hikes can take an entire day, and there are multiple that people put on their Madeira itinerary. Again, when traveling off-season, you will not be able to check everything off your Madeira bucket list so 3-5 days is a decent time frame. In season, I’d say an absolute minimum of 4 days is needed to see everything, with 5-6 being more ideal for a short trip.

Traveling to Madeira

Flights to funchal.

Getting to Maderia is pretty easy with frequent flights from Lisbon and a couple of other European airports. I even saw one direct flight from NYC flying out once per week! I like breaking up my flights rather than automatically searching between origin and destination, meaning if I’m flying from NYC, I will search NYC to Lisbon and then Lisbon to Madeira. I compare my times with layovers and frequently find better deals, instead if I were to search NYC to Madeira in one shot. A round trip for the very end of November cost me under $450 for both flights. Although I’m here to argue that off-season travel isn’t ideal here, if you’re on a budget, Madeira in December might be a great money saver!

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Getting around – Car rental in Maderia

Madeira is a small island and you can drive from one end to the other in a couple of hours. North to South is even faster. Seeing the whole island is indeed possible during a Madeira 5-day itinerary.

When other travelers pointed out that driving in Madeira is an adventure in itself, I didn’t quite believe it. I drove in tricky conditions and places but driving there will get its own category in my personal driving experiences. Before my trip, one of my friends said, “If it doesn’t look like a road in Madeira, it probably is” and looking back at this, that was an extremely accurate description of driving there. Most roads in Madeira are freeways and tunnels but once you venture into towns, one-way roads will magically fit two cars and 30-degree hill roads will become the norm.

I don’t want to discourage you from renting a car there but rather prepare you for what to expect. Renting a car is the absolute best way to see the island and it will save you a ton of time on sightseeing. I normally book through Rental Cars but I found a better deal on Holiday Autos . While I am a creature of habit and don’t trust new websites on deals, I had a very smooth experience will them and will rent in the future. For your reference, an automatic car rental in Maderia during the off-season cost me ~$250 for 5 days using Rodavante with car pick up and return right at the airport. A manual rental is much cheaper but unless you drive it regularly, I would not get one there.

Although driving there was certainly a challenge, I wouldn’t have done it any other way. If you’re planning to do mountain driving, watch for an automatic car’s brakes as they might start smelling, especially in wet conditions.

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Where to stay in Madeira

Where you stay during your Madeira vacation depends on what you want to do. If you’re unsure, Funchal is the main city and can be a good base for taking drives throughout the island. If hiking is your main priority, consider staying in the mountains instead. Most importantly though, if you have a car, it’s fairly easy to see all nooks of the island no matter where you stay. Maderia has a ton of hotels, some hostels, and even more Airbnbs. Which you choose should depend on your personal preference. While Airbnb has its own issues, especially in bigger cities, I felt that renting one in Madeira where I was in communication with the hosts directly was the way Airbnb originally intended the platform to be.

Airbnb in Madeira

Traveling with my parents, we opted for two Airbnb in Maderia because we wanted a comfortable base for exploring. I spent a lot of time searching for the perfect combo of what we were looking for and I think I hit the jackpot with both of them. The first Airbnb located 7 min from the airport, was the entire first floor of a large house overlooking the ocean, with a beautiful pool and a walkway to the beach promenade. One of the downsides of traveling to Madeira off-season is that we didn’t get to use the pool or spend time in stunning outside space as much. As a bonus, the coolest part was watching the planes land at the nearby airport right from my bedroom.

The second Airbnb that we rented in Madeira was located near Sao Vincente. It was a huge home in the mountains with sick views and the best host I have ever experienced throughout my years of traveling. I loved having two locations, one with the ocean view and the other with the mountain one but for someone who doesn’t want to move between two locations, this might not be the best option. If you’re interested in booking either of these locations, send me an email and I’ll be happy to share the link.

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What to pack for Madeira in December

Ok, I am only including this section because I packed like an idiot for this trip. Let me explain. A couple of years back, I traveled to Tenerife during a similar time of the year. I falsely assumed that the two destinations would have similar weather and that packing 5 dresses for each day would be the way to go. My outfits consisted of light athleisure, dresses, and a couple of cute outfits for the barn (shoutout to those who get the reference). I ended up wearing two heavier sweaters and the jacket that I packed for the plane for pretty much the entire time I was there. These are the items not to forget when you travel to Madeira during the off-season :

  • A rainproof jacket and/or umbrella – The rain won’t last long but when it comes around, you want to have a raincoat on hand instead of looking for a place to hide.
  • Light coat or cardigan – During the day, while you won’t need a heavy coat, it will get chilly when the sun is not out.
  • Waterproof shoes – If hiking is on your list to do or if you want to check out the Fanal Pond, then sneakers won’t be sufficient. The ground is wet and puddly so good outdoor shoes that won’t soak are a must.
  • (Bathing suit) – I saw a couple of brave souls swimming in the chilly waters of Porto Moniz pools, if you like cold swims, don’t forget to pack a suit.

People & Safety

Overall, I’d say that most locals in Madeira were really nice. My Portuguese is non-existent but I tried to use my hello/please and thank yous whenever I could. Side note, do not use Spanish in Madeira or in any of Portugal , it is not Portuguese and it’s a faux-pas there. For the most part, the experience was very positive. In terms of safety, Madeira is a very safe destination. Some common travel scams to watch out for include the following:

  • Taxi scam – This isn’t so much a Madeira scam but rather a worldwide one where dishonest taxi drivers charge you ridiculous amounts for short rides. Always demand the meter to be turned on to avoid this. It has been reported to happen in Funchal on some travel forums.
  • Market fruit sample – When you go to Funchal, one of the main attractions in town is Mercado dos Lavradores. It’s a cute and colorful market filled with merchants offering you fruit samples. However, a lot of the fruit is enhanced with syrup and when you taste it, you’ll naturally want to purchase some for later. The fruit will cost you an insane amount and when you get home, it will not have the same taste as that first bite you had at the market. We bought fruit in Funchal, a couple of streets away from the market but I still got ripped off. While not a true scam, just be aware of this little selling trick.

WARNING! TRAVEL SCAM IN MADEIRA

Restaurant bill additions – As a former waitress/bartender, I’d like to think that my bullshit meter is pretty good when it comes to other waiters. I could easily tell when you’re actually in the weeds or if you’re just being lazy, because hey, I’ve done the same shit 🙂 What I always make sure to do though is check the itemized bill no matter where I’m dining. During busy moments, it is genuinely possible to make a mistake and charge extra or add a wrong item. However, when your bill magically increases by 100 euros, you know something is up. This was the case at Taberna , a small highly rated restaurant in Santa Cruz. While the nice waiter chatted with my family all dinner, when the bill came, suddenly he started rushing us with the credit card machine. That triggered a red light in my head and I asked to see the itemized bill before blindly swiping my card. Our small appetizers and a couple of drinks added to over 130 euros. I noticed that one 10 euro app was charged 10 times on the bill, a small trick that made the bill look legitimate.

Now, if I wasn’t a waitress in my past life, I would buy the story that this was an honest mistake. However, when I brought up the price discrepancy to the waiter, he quickly looked at it and said, “Oops, silly me” and didn’t apologize or display any sort of remorse for what had happened. The fact that he was quick to run to us with the credit card machine was also sus. I heard about this scam in cities like Rome or even in Lisbon but I never assumed it would happen in Maderia. So despite the food being tasty and the restaurant being super cozy, don’t assume it won’t happen even in less touristy parts of any town.

Food and Drinks to try in Madeira

Out of the entire time I spent on the island and the numerous meals I ate, I only had one mediocre meal and tbh at my own fault. The lesson I fail to learn over and over is never to order pizza outside New York or New Jersey or Italy of course. Back to Madeira food though, it is so so tasty and actually extremely affordable. Here are my top picks for food to try in Madeira:

  • Prego sandwich : This is the most amazing sandwich I had in my entire life. I’m serious, nothing compares. You can get it almost anywhere. It’s a steak sandwich on buttery and garlicky bread that comes in a couple of variations.
  • Espetada: A long skewer of hanging meat. Its simplicity makes it super tasty.
  • Espada or black scabbard fish : This was my mom’s favorite, it is usually served with bananas. This is one weird looking creature but it tastes delicious!
  • Bolo de molo de mel: This traditional honey cake is pretty tasty!
  • Madeira Wine: It’s heavy and has a very distinct taste and you’ll certainly feel it going down your throat! Blandy’s Madeira is a very popular spot to consume this beverage.
  • Poncha: Poncha is the most delicious alcoholic drink. It’s made of cane rum and had different fruit flavor options. Get the traditional kind and enjoy the happiness that comes after drinking this 🙂

For more interesting food finds, I used Brogan Abroad’s guide before traveling to Madeira for the tastiest food finds!

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Random Useful Tips for Madeira Travel

  • If the weather is acting up during your visit, check the live cams! I used these to see whether mountain peaks were clear from clouds or where I could find the sun on the island.
  • Miradouros are viewpoint spots all throughout the island. Some are simple pull-over style along the highway, others require short walks to reach the spot. My advice is to stop at all of them 🙂
  • When visiting Tenerife which has similar viewpoint parking areas as Madeira, my car window got smashed and all my belongings got stolen during that trip a couple of years back. When you leave your car anywhere, take everything with you. Even small stops that seem safe can be targets for petty theft.

Things to do in Madeira

In terms of the number of things to see in Madeira, I’d say you can stay pretty busy during your trip. The majority of the attractions throughout the island include outdoor activities. One of the most important things to consider when traveling off-season is how important certain attractions are to you. If you need a dense itinerary with lots of outdoor attractions, consider in-season travel. Instead, if you need a simple getaway with a couple of things to do here and there, the off-season is probably a better choice.

Below, I bring you a 5-day Madeira itinerary that also gives you an off-season expectation. However, you can use my travel plan for any time of the year. Since Madeira is a small island, for the most part, it doesn’t matter which order you do the days in. However, note that the first two days are optimized for the Funchal area and the remaining for the other parts of the island.

5-day Madeira Itinerary

At the bottom of this post, you can download this travel guide to Madeira to bring along on your trip. Additionally, you will find a map of all the attractions so you don’t have to worry about saving them yourself.

We’ll call your arrival day, Day 0. Arriving at Madeira airport (Ronaldo Cristiano Airport 🙂 ) can be quite the experience on a windy day. If you’re a nervous flyer, I wouldn’t YouTube any videos of landings there. However, despite its windy challenges, there only has been one accident in the late 1970s. Since then, the runway has been extended and only experienced pilots are allowed to approach a landing there.

The airport is on the east side of the island and is located a short ~25 min drive from Funchal. When you get off the plane, have all your paperwork ready as you’ll be asked for your Madeira Safe bar code. If you’re renting a car (which I highly recommend), the pick-up process once you land is super easy, my checkout took under 10 mins. The rental car lot is located across the street and you should be on your way within a short time of arrival. If you require public transportation, here is a helpful official link.

Flights arrive all day long so the timing of your Day 0 will depend on where you’re coming from. I personally arrived around 8 pm but my Airbnb was located 7 mins away from the airport so I was “home” very quickly. Note that restaurants and stores aren’t open too late so if you are planning a later arrival, make sure to eat before your flight.

Day 1 – Southern Part of Madeira

Valley of the nuns.

Now that you settled in, there is no better place to start your vacation than by seeing Curral das Freiras or Valley of Nuns in Madeira. It’s located a short drive from Funchal and it’s an in/out kinda trip. This small town has a couple of restaurants and tourist shops but aside from the views, there isn’t much to do there. However, these viewpoints are crazy beautiful and you shouldn’t skip this area on your Madeira adventure.

There are two major viewpoints, the first being Eira do Serrado , a very popular spot on the island. Once you arrive at the spot, there is a small parking spot with a café. In order to get to the viewpoint, you’ll have to take a short 5 min walk. I recommend grabbing a coffee and a pastel de nata at the cafe for a little longer appreciation of the area. The second point, Paredão Viewpoint , is located above the clouds and it’s not too far from the first one. It’s also a short walk from the parking area.

After admiring the views from the top, I recommend grabbing lunch in the little town which will give you a slightly different perspective of the area. Everyone recommends a restaurant called Sabores de Curral but I opted for La Perla instead. I was extremely impressed with the food but the views along with a cold beer made it even more delicious.

Off-season struggles: The area gets mixed weather during the off-season but the good news is that if it starts raining, the clouds will most likely pass. Pack an umbrella or a rain jacket. We waited out the rain having a coffee and then got rewarded with a beautiful rainbow!

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For the second part of the day, visiting Funchal will give you the exact opposite vibes from your nature-filled morning. Funchal is the capital of Madeira and is certainly worth spending some time in. If you’re driving in, the streets can get really narrow so rather than looking for street parking, I recommend finding a parking garage near the center. Garage prices are very cheap and it will save you time and a headache.

I would simply recommend walking around Zona Velha, seeing the market, and most important feeling the liveliness of the town by spending some time by the waterfront. Don’t forget a mandatory stop for some good poncha either. Note that I am not including the botanical gardens just yet. Funchal is safe but make sure to watch your belongings for pickpockets. Here are some known attractions in the city for you to check out:

  • Mercado Lavaradores: Yes it is a tourist trap but hear me out for a second. The market has really pretty colors and cute souvenirs to look at. I certainly wouldn’t buy fruit here (read my scam warning above) but I do like browsing through places like these.
  • Avenida Arriaga: Right next to the market, you will find this shopping street with a lot of tourists. It’s a good spot to take a stroll and window shop for a bit.
  • Zona Velha: This is the Old Town part of town which includes cobblestone streets, restaurants, bars and lively nightlife.
  • Cathedral of Funchal: A pretty local catholic church right in the heart of town.
  • Praça do Povo & Funchal Marina: Walk along the waterfront to catch the nice atmosphere of locals and tourists. When I visited in late 2021, that area had a cute little town fair with rides.
  • Parque de Santa Catarina: Cute little park with views of the town and the incoming ships.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo Statue : If you make your way by the park, grab a photo with the icon of Madeira, the one and only Cristiano Ronaldo. Since he was born on the island, you will see a lot of references to him. There is even a museum 🙂

Make sure to stop at Rei da Poncha , a very popular hole in the wall with some great tasting poncha and some great snacks too. The outdoor tables might be full but just linger around for a couple of minutes and a table will free up in no time.

Off-season struggles: Day one of your Maderia travel will actually work in your favor if you’re traveling off-season. Funchal won’t be too crowded with people and if you’re visiting in late November or December you will get to see fun holiday decor. The southern part of the island is usually sunny and even if it rains, the rain should pass by quickly. Places like Rei da Poncha won’t have a line and you won’t be annoyed with the crowds.

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(Pico do Arieiro)

Pico do Arierio was one of the most anticipated spots I wanted to see in Madeira. A simple google search will show you why. It’s the third-highest peak and one of the only that you don’t actually have to hike. Yes, you can simply drive there and see the most amazing views without any pain 🙂

I wanted to see the incredible sunrise overlooking Madeira under the clouds. However, we attempted this sunrise once in person and then checked the webcams for both, sunrise and sunset for the entire time we were there and were not able to successfully see this spot. One of the biggest risks you take with traveling off-season is missing amazing spots like this one. I’m including this on Day 2 because you might have to attempt to see it multiple times during your trip.

However, if you’re traveling in season, you have to check this couple’s guide to visit Pico Arieiro and actually all their Maderia guides which are extremely detailed and resourceful. There is a very popular day hike from Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruvio and I recommend that blog to give you the best details on it.

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Back to Funchal

While the first day in Funchal consisted of exploring the basics of the city, I did don’t want to include the botanical gardens then, as the whole experience would have been very rushed. So for day two, you can explore either Monte Palace or Madeira Botanical Garden s (or maybe even both if you love gardens). I personally only visited Monte Palace and it was a super beautiful place that I’ll recommend to you.

Here is some info on them:

  • Monte Palace – An additional attraction to this place is the fact that you can take a cable car from Funchal on the Funchal – Monte line to get here scoring some awesome views from above of the city. A one-way ticket is 11 euros and a roundtrip is 16. Their Japanese-style gardens were stunning and I had a great time taking random turns and not following the map per se. We spend about 3 hours exploring which included a stop at the gift shop for some complimentary Madeira wine tasting. To get back to Funchal you can simply take a cable car back or take a ride in the famous Toboggan cart ride . It was a little too touristy for me but people swear this is a fun activity.
  • Botanical Gardens – The second gardens are located not too far from Monte Palace and are connected by the Botanical – Monte line in case you wanted to take the cable car again. I haven’t visited these gardens but people often prefer Monte over this location.

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Cabo Girão Skywalk

After exploring the gardens, take a short ride to the famous glass skywalk with great ocean and Funchal views. To be honest I expected a much bigger platform however it was still pretty impressive. There is no entrance fee and the spot gets pretty crowded. One thing that I loved more than the views was the strong eucalyptus scent from all the trees as you walk around. There is a small cafe with overpriced food and drinks on site but I recommend stopping there for a little break to enjoy the view even more.

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Options for the afternoon

Personally, this is where I would take a little break and head back to my hotel and Airbnb to relax. Sometimes I tend to overlook how important relaxing is during vacation 🙂 However, if you’d like to continue with your day two activities, here are some ideas for the afternoon:

  • Vinhos Barbeito : I found a nice family-owned winery near Funchal. It has great reviews and I imagine the wine tastes really good! Madeira wine is special within itself so why not drink it from someone that knows what they’re doing.
  • Ribeira Brava: Explore this cute little town with shops, restaurants and nice mountain and ocean views. Beaches in Madeira are located all over the island but I actually found people swimming in this one off-season as the sun likes this place no matter what the month.
  • Funchal at night: Local cuisine is bomb. So make sure to take yourself to a nice place, have some good traditional food and then walk around the town at night. Most towns should always be seen during the day and night. There is a whole new vibe that emerges when the lights dim!

Day 3 – Sao Lourenco toward Sao Vincente

For Day 3 of your awesome Madeira adventure, I recommend heading to the northern part of the island. Now that you got to see most of the Funchal area and its surrounding gems, it’s time to head to the super green part of the island. The one thing to note when you’re traveling to Madeira off-season is that the weather in the northern part is almost always more cloudy and wet compared to the southern part. This is what will make the biggest distinction between traveling in the off-months compared to peak season.

Ponta de São Lourenço

This awesome hike is certainly not a hidden gem of the island. If possible try to arrive before 10 am as the spot gets pretty crowded. Even better if you can make a sunrise hike! If you’re worried about weather conditions, don’t forget to check out the webcams.

This hike starts at the parking trail and goes all the way to the tippy top of Madeira. You won’t be able to reach the very end of these crazy rock formations because the very last part is separated by the ocean. The hike should take you between 1.5 to 2.5 hours each way depending on how many times you take picture stops. Towards the end, you will find a small cafe where you can use the bathroom or grab a coffee. This is a very popular part of the island so expect some crowds.

For a very detailed plan for this hike, I found this blog which does an excellent job of preparing you for it.

Off-season struggles: The weather is not going to be your best friend here. It might get more chilly and windy in the months of November and December. However, since peaks might not even be doable during that time, this is one of the few chances you have to experience Madeira’s nature.

Northern Drive Toward Sao Vincente

After the hike, you won’t probably want to do any more walking so I recommend a scenic drive along the northeastern part of the island. Here are a couple of stops to consider. Depending on the timing of your morning, you will not be able to do all of them so check out my photos below to see which ones you think you’d like best:

  • Faial Beach : This little beach is located about 25 minutes from Sao Lourenco parking lot. I found it on accident while driving in that area. I wouldn’t swim there per say but the landscape is really nice! Off-season you probably won’t see another soul there!
  • Miradouro do Guindaste : Right above Faial Beach, there is a nice coastal viewpoint offering the awesome view the beach does but from slightly above. I’d say do one or the other since the views will be very similar.
  • Miradouro do Curtado : This one is located a short 10 min drive from the point mentioned before. It offers a nice view of local town as well as the northern coast nearby.
  • Santana Houses: This was the most crowded place I encountered on my off-season trip to Madeira. Why you ask? I have no clue because as cute as the Santana Houses are unless you have some sort of historical curiosity about them, there really isn’t that much to see there. I don’t know what I expected but certainly not what I saw. I’d say you can pass this location if touristy places bother you.
  • Hotel & Restaurante Quinta do Furão: This is a good place for an early dinner but before you head to the restaurant, go on a little walk around the property. There is a vineyard in the back and a garden in that is accessible to walk around patrons and it was a (hidden) place during out little drive. It’s super pretty and you can even catch a view of a waterfall from there.
  • Miradouro da Beira da Quinta: Super quick stop but nonetheless a nice viewpoint of the local area.
  • Sao Vincente: This is a small town that’s the base of a lot of northern hikes for people. We stayed at an Airbnb for the second part of our trip here and loved the quiet atmosphere and more local vibe compared to Funchal. The small town has a couple of restaurants and bars by the water. If you’re not staying in the area, I’d recommend grabbing some food before heading back home. I ate at Restaurante Calamar which had delicious food for amazing prices and Poncha de Sao Vincente , a local bar with awesome apps.

Off-season struggles: The northern part of the island is the rainiest and most cloudy off-season. Consider that when packing clothes for your exploration there. All the spots I mentioned above were cloudy and chilly when I visited. Comparing photos of them in the sun from other travel blogs, I certainly feel like I didn’t get the proper experience of them.

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  • Quinta do Furão

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  • Miradouro da Beira da Quinta

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Drive toward Porto Moniz

Before you head to see the famous swimming pools of Porto Moniz, there is a couple of quick stops you can make before heading over.

  • Miradouro do Véu da Noiva : This is a very popular viewpoint on the island and while I think it was cute, I didn’t find it as fascinating as others have described. The main highlight of this stop is a waterfall that drops into the ocean but since it is pretty far and the road to access it is closed, it’s just a small stop. There is a gift shop there but it was very pricey compared to others I’ve seen.
  • Seixal: What many describe as the best beach in Madeira is located in Seixal, a small town on the northern coast. It’s all black sand contrasting with vibrant green nature and surrounded by mountains. There are also small natural swimming pools located in town. While during off-season travel you won’t be able to swim, it’s worth visiting for the picturesque views.

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Porto Moniz

The Porto Moniz natural swimming pools are swimming areas formed by lava and filled with fresh seawater on the northwestern side of the island. They are one of the coolest outdoor swimming pools I have seen. I hate to break it to you this early in the description but unless you like cold swimming, traveling during the off-season will unfortunately not allow you to fully enjoy them. I was super upset that I wasn’t able to swim in them, after naively reading some online comments claiming that late November is sometimes ok for swimming.

There are two pool areas in town. One with an entrance fee but only 1.5 euros, there you will find lockers and snack bars the other is free but more rocky and natural. The actual town is super small, you can walk from one pool area to the other in under 10 mins. However, my friends, I do not think you should skip visiting the town even without swimming. It is indeed impressive to see them and take some pictures in the area. I recommend making a stop in Porto Moniz for lunch or a drink.

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Fanal Forest

Quick Tip: If you’re heading to Fanal Forest or Fanal Pond from Porto Moniz, make an easy and quick stop at Miradouro da Eira da Achada for more island views from above.

Fanal Forest is the one place that should work in your favor during off-season travel. Why? Because people love this place for a mystical experience of the fog and creepy vibes. If you visit during the summer peak months, the chances of the fog are said to be greatest in the morning. However, in the “winter” months, you can catch it at pretty much any time. Simply put Fanal Pond in your GPS and you will arrive in a small parking lot, then walk towards the forest. I recommend packing waterproof shoes and a waterproof jacket if you’re planning to walk around. I got soaked and cold while exploring and it wasn’t too pleasant. Overall it’s a cool place to visit for some awesome pictures. Put a pin in your map as the further you walk in the fog, the more likely you are to get lost.

There are many cows in that forest so be careful not to step in some cow poo as you’re taking your picture 🙂

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If you followed my itinerary, by day 5 you’ve seen top places that Madeira is known for. For this last day, I will give you options of things to do that are worth seeing on this stunning island depending on what you like to do.

Hikes & Levada Walks

Madeira is known for many hiking trails and Levada walks. I’m more of a drive-to-a-peak kinda gal unless I’m feeling inspired to hike as I did in Poland this summer (You can read my guest post on We Are Travel Girls about my super awesome hike in the Tatra Mountains). I did not hike in Madeira therefore I cannot give you solid advice on it. However, I found this amazing and super informative post from Claire on her blog and I recommend you follow her for the best hiking advice.

Small things to do in Madeira on the western side of the island

The western side is not as touristy as the other side of the island but that doesn’t mean if you should skip it. Although there aren’t as many attractions, here are a couple of spots to visit there:

  • Garganta Funda Viewpoint : Although you will need to walk about 15 minutes to reach this viewpoint, the awesome waterfall that you will see at the end will make it worth it. The nice thing about traveling off-season is that you’re likely to see it in full action compared to the summer when it dries up. I regret not seeing this place during my visit.
  • Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse : A small picturesque lighthouse on the far end of the island. It might not be a super exciting spot, but you can take a small walk in the area and admire the calm atmosphere.
  • Cascata dos Anjos : The famous waterfall that falls on your car as your drive on ER101 is certainly a cool experience. If you’re driving toward the west side, you can even pull over and see it up close.

Speaking of the western side …

There is a less-known thing you do on the western side which is Achadas da Cruz cable car bringing you in the (almost) empty small local village. It’s an area only accessible by cable car (between 8 am to 6 pm) or a super steep trail. Not many (if any) locals stay there full time, it’s more of a nature getaway for them. For you, it means exploring two remote villages with stunning surrounding nature. I found a very detailed and informative guide on this hidden Madeiran location. Journey Era gives you more than enough detail about this place, he even takes the hike back up the hill in the evening.

Madeira Beaches

Although you won’t be able to comfortably swim in the ocean if you’re traveling off-season, or if you like cold water, spending some time near the beach even at a local cafe or bar is really nice.

  • Calheta Beach has white imported sand and gives some nice tropical vibes. There are some all-inclusive hotels in the area too.
  • Seixal Black Sand Beach: I mentioned this beach earlier but if you like black sand vibes, you should spend some time enjoying the beauty of Seixal.
  • Ponta do Sol Beach: In the (almost always) sunny part of Madeira, you can find a nice small beach to enjoy without the crowds.

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Porto Santo

If you’d like to do something more unique, take a day trip to Porto Santo, a small island located a 2-hour ferry ride away or even a short plane ride. There are daily morning departures with evening returns. Some people recommend spending more than a day there, while others do a day trip and are content. Here are two contrasting opinions, a day trip one , and a longer excursion . Hopefully, this lets you decide whether a day trip is worth it for you. Nonetheless, Porto Santo is a stunning destination that could be added as a bonus if you’re already in the area 🙂

Madeira Tours

If organized tours are something you enjoy, consider booking one in Madeira. Some of the more popular choices include dolphin/whale watching boat trips, jeep tours through the island, or even organized hikes. While these are not something I would opt-in to do in Madeira, as the majority of the things can be done solo, a lot of people enjoy having a pre-planned day.

While short excursions are not my thing, I personally always recommend food tours through which not only can you learn about the local cuisine, but see the area, learn history and interact with other like-minded people. I found a highly-rated tour, Madeira Food on Foot which offers different tours and even pre-made picnic baskets. I’d say that’s the best Madeira tour there is 🙂

Download this Madeira guide

Here is a free downloadable guide for you of all the places I talked about above. It’s a pocket version so I recommend reading everything above before downloading the guide for your travels 🙂

Download It HERE

Map of Madeira

Final thoughts on things to do in Madeira in December or any other off-season month

As promised at the start of the post, I tried to give you a realistic expectation of Madeira off-season. I’d say that I romanticized it too much and imagined that I could do more than I did even in the “winter” months.

To recap, here are the cons of things to do in Madeira during off-season times:

  • Higher chance of poor weather : The rain and clouds will limit what you can see and do. What you imagine to be a sunny afternoon hike or a beach day will turn into hiding in cafes until the rain passes.
  • Not seeing the best sunrise and sunset spots : The chances of having a clear sky up in the mountains which would normally give you out-of-this-world sunrises and sunsets are very slim. For 5/5 days of travel, there wasn’t a single day that we were able to see any peaks. I anxiously kept checking weather cams and even drove to two spots to check myself and I was not successful of seeing either of them.
  • Natural Lava Pools: Despite having lava in its name, the swimming pools of Porto Moniz or Seixal will be chilly to comfortably enjoy in the colder months. They’re a really awesome way to spend a day in Madeira so the fact that I missed out makes me irked.
  • Hikes: Again, this being related to the weather, everything will be wet. Walking in chilly and wet conditions is not a pleasant experience to me.

BUT, here are some pros:

  • There will be very few tourists.
  • Prices are usually better for hotels and flights.
  • You will have a lot of places to yourself.

Sometimes off-season travel is the only time you have to take from work so you make it work. I wish I instead visited Madeira during shoulder season for example. Visiting in the months of May or September would give me the off-season vibes I love but not have limited me in the number of things I wanted to do. Knowing what I know now I would not have traveled to Madeira in December but I hope I gave you enough realistic expectations to make the decision for yourself.

Gladly, this itinerary is informative enough for any season so feel free to download it when you travel to Madeira. If you do, share a photo! Don’t forget to comment down below on whether you think Madeira is worth traveling off-season and what experiences you might have had there!

More off-season travel from Perfect Day Somewhere!

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Kasia is a travel blogger that loves to share her detailed itineraries and travel tips with her community. She's traveled to numerous countries and makes it a priority to explore her home state of New Jersey while still being passionate about her 9-5 career.

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Great info, thanks for putting this together in such detail!!

Thank you for reading!

Your blog is really helping us plan our Madeira trip for the end of the month. Do you mind sharing the links to the air bnbs you stayed at? Thank you

Hi Emily! Please send me a message via the contact form and I’ll be happy to send you the links!

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The Travel Intern

Madeira Travel Guide — What to Eat, See, Do in The Most Beautiful Place on Earth

madeira travel youtube

If Mother Nature had a favourite child, it’s probably Madeira.

PR8 Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco Hike Drone Photo - Madeira Travel Guide

You might recall a goofy-looking bust of Ronaldo that went viral years ago. It was unveiled at Madeira’s airport (or Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport), where the famous footballer was born.

PR1 Vereda do Areeiro Hiker - Hidden Gems in Portugal

For those who’ve never heard of Madeira , here’s a brief introduction. Madeira is an archipelago made of four islands. It’s an autonomous region of Portugal — but it’s geographically closer to Africa than Europe! 

madeira travel youtube

We were coming to the end of our month-long stay in Lisbon as part of Airbnb’s LiveAnywhere Programme , and decided to fly to Madeira. When else would we have the opportunity to stay on a beautiful Portuguese island for two weeks?

I’m so glad we did because Madeira is easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen.

Click to jump to each section of our Madeira travel guide: Madeira Photo Spots | Madeira Hiking Trails | Other Things to Do in Madeira | Madeira Travel Tips

Incredible Photo Spots in Madeira

Miradouro do Ponta da Ladeira Viewpoint - Madeira Travel Guide

Madeira is truly a photographer’s dream. The island is so picturesque, it’s almost unfair. What amazed me is how different the landscapes are just an hour’s drive apart! We’d get lush forests on one end, and desert-like landscapes on another.

1) Cascata dos Anjos

Cascata dos Anjos Waterfall with Visitor - Madeira Travel Guide

A 30-minute drive from the capital city of Funchal is Cascata dos Anjos. It’s this gorgeous waterfall that cascades over the old highway ER 101.

Cascata dos Anjos Waterfall on Road Portugal - Madeira Travel Guide

The best time to visit is right after a rainy period, as the waterfall will be more powerful. To top it off, we saw a rainbow while we were there!

Cascata dos Anjos Rainbow - Madeira Travel Guide

Address: Caminho das Fontes 15, 9360-355 Ponta do Sol, Portugal

2) Madeira Bridge

Madeira Bridge Drone Shot Portugal - Madeira Travel Guide

Hardly any information can be found online on this bridge. I couldn’t find an official name, but some call it the Jungle Bridge. It’s not even listed on Google Maps!

But it looked like a fairytale bridge guarded by trolls — we couldn’t resist checking it out.

Address: P3VV+FF Funchal, Portugal

3) Miradouro do Ponta da Ladeira

Miradouro do Ponta da Ladeira Sunset Spot - Madeira Travel Guide

Miradouro do Ponta da Ladeira is a cliffside viewpoint that overlooks Achadas Da Cruz and a small village called Fajã da Quebrada Nova.

After arriving at the parking lot pinned on Google maps , we had to scramble down an unmarked dirt path to get there. It’s a bit steep, so take caution when you visit. We caught an epic sunset here, the kind that makes you feel alive.

Address: VQ5W+RJ Porto Moniz, Portugal

4) Achadas da Cruz and Fajã da Quebrada Nova

Achadas Da Cruz Town - Madeira Travel Guide

Achadas da Cruz is a small district in Porto Moniz — and it was one of my favourite spots on this Madeira travel guide.

We arrived at a cliffside viewpoint overlooking Fajã da Quebrada Nova; a small uninhabited village which sits along the coast. It’s surrounded by dramatic cliffs covered in greenery, and when the light hits the mountains, it’s pretty special.

The main roads aren’t at sea level — they’re actually at the top of the cliffs!

Achadas Da Cruz Cable Car- - Madeira Travel Guide

Which means that you’ve got to take the Achadas da Cruz cable car to get to the village! The alternative is a very, very steep climb down — I highly doubt anyone sane would attempt this.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com 🇸🇬 (@thetravelintern)

The cable car costs just five euros for a round trip (#worth). It’s a steep descent, combined with panoramic views — like an amusement ride, but better.

Achadas Da Cruz - Madeira Travel Guide

After checking out the village, we explored the other side of the coast. There’s a narrow path through the vegetation (in the picture above!) that leads to an isolated rocky beach.

We stayed here till golden hour and the colours were magical!

Achadas Da Cruz Cable Car - Madeira Travel Guide

Fun fact: There’s only one cable car operator (and his cat) — located at the top station. When you’re ready to return, close the doors yourself and he’ll start the ride!

The last cable car departs at around 6PM, so be sure to catch it or you’ll be sleeping on the beach (not as fun as it sounds).

5) Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela Rocks

Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela Rocks - Madeira Travel Guide

Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela Rocks are these beautiful rock formations that sit close to the pebble beach coastline. This area is supposedly popular for surfing, though we didn’t see any surfers while we were there.

Address: VR4W+5R Ribeira da Janela, Portugal

6) Miradouro da Garganta Funda

Garganta Funda Waterfall Drone Shot - Madeira Travel Guide

Madeira has been blessed with several incredible waterfalls, but the 140m-high Miradouro da Garganta Funda (or Deep Throat Waterfall) might be the most impressive.

Garganta Funda Waterfall - Madeira Travel Guide

We didn’t even have to venture far to find it — it’s just a short 600m walk from the carpark!

Address: 9385, Ribeira da Vaca, Portugal

7) Seixal Natural Pools

Seixal Natural Pool Drone Photo - Madeira Travel Guide

Madeira has several natural pools and this one is located along the north coast, close to Porto Moniz.

Again, I found many photos online but not much information on it. It’s located right beside Seixal Beach, where there were a few people surfing while we were there!

Seixal Natural Pool Breakwaters - Madeira Travel Guide

Address: Caminho da Delfina Fernandes Correia 9270, 9270-130 Seixal, Portugal

8) Miradouro do Véu da Noiva (Seixal Waterfall) 

Miradouro do Véu da Noiva (Seixal Waterfall) - Madeira Travel Guide

Just across Seixal Beach is another famous waterfall — Miradouro do Véu da Noiva . Véu da Noiva means bridal veil, because the falls resembles one plunging into Atlantic ocean!

Address: Antigo Traçado da ER101, Portugal

Epic Hiking Trails in Madeira

PR8 Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco Hiking in Madeira - Best Hikes in Madeira

I’ve been lucky enough to have gone on some incredible hikes around the world . But the Madeira’s hikes are in a league of their own.

There are two main types of hiking trails in Madeira. Vereda hikes are mountain or coastal cliff walks, while Levada hikes follow irrigation channels and waterfalls. This Madeira travel guide includes the three hikes you shouldn’t miss if you’re visiting for the first time:

9) PR1: Vereda do Areeiro

PR1 Vereda do Areeiro Best Hike in Madeira - Madeira Travel Guide

Distance: 13km return Duration: ~7hrs Starting point: P3PC+7G Curral das Freiras, Portugal

You might have seen videos of Vereda do Areeiro on Instagram; it’s Madeira’s most famous hike! So of course we had to include it in our Madeira travel guide.

This trail connects Madeira’s three highest peaks — Pico do Areeiro (1818m), Pico das Torres (1851m) and Pico Ruivo (1862m).

PR1 Vereda do Areeiro Viewpoint - Madeira Travel Guide

The hike starts at Pico do Areeiro, with a narrow section of stairs above the clouds that seemingly lead to heaven. This is the most photographed spot of the hike, barely 30 minutes from the starting point!

PR1 Vereda do Areeiro Tunnels - Madeira Travel Guide

We passed through tunnels dug out of the mountain, used to shelter cattle and shepherds in the past. There aren’t any lights, so it’s pitch-black — we used our phone torchlights to see.

PR1: Vereda do Areeiro Portugal - Hidden Gems in Portugal

This hike is moderately challenging — there are quite a few lengthy sections of stairs, especially toward the end!

The views throughout this hike are extremely rewarding, so take your time and soak it all in. Definitely one of my all-time favourite hikes!

10) PR6: Levada das 24 Fontes

PR6 Levada das 24 Fontes Waterfall Drone Photo - Madeira Travel Guide

Distance: 8.6km round trip Duration: ~6hrs Starting point: ER110 15, Portugal

Levada das 25 Fontes is Madeira’s most popular levada hike, which goes through lush valleys and follows the island’s irrigation channel.

PR6 Levada das 24 Fontes Hike - Hidden Gems in Portugal

The hike itself is moderate difficulty, with a combination of narrow paths and stairs. A unique feature of the trail is that many sections are framed by curved tree branches that look straight out of a Stephen King horror film. In the daytime though, it’s a pretty sight.

PR6 Levada das 24 Fontes Waterfall - Best Hiking Trails in Madeira

The end of the trail is the 25 Fontes waterfall! At this point, you’ll have to turn around and head back the same way.

11) PR8: Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço

PR8 Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco Hike - Madeira Travel Guide

Distance: 6km return Duration: ~5hrs Starting point: ER109, Estr. de São Lourenço, 9200-044 Caniçal, Portugal

Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço looks like something out of Jurassic World. It’s easily one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever been on! We did this hike as part of our Comfort Zones series, along with strangers we met in Madeira (watch it!).

PR8 Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco Hikes in Madeira - Madeira Travel Guide

This trail snakes along Madeira’s rugged coastline and ends at the eastern tip of Madeira. The views throughout were incredible — stunning cliff edges and vivid blue waters stretching as far as the eye could see.

PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço Beach - Hidden Gems in Portugal

We went early in the morning, so there weren’t many people on the trail yet — and it felt like we had the place to ourselves.

Other Things to Do in Madeira

12) canyoning.

Canyoning Tour - Best Things to do in Madeira

I’m relatively new to canyoning, having only done cliff jumps back in Cebu years ago. This canyoning tour with Epic Madeira was a lot more memorable for two reasons. First, this tour involved rappelling down waterfalls and second, we didn’t see another soul during the entire three hours.

Turns out, Madeira is a fantastic place for canyoning . There are tons of gorgeous canyons, waterfalls and lagoons — and you can go canyoning all year round!

Canyoning Tour Waterfall - Madeira adventure activities

Our guides Ronaldo and Vitor made the whole experience. They’re professional, fun and fearless . We had lunch with them after and learnt they spend their free time doing insane cliff dives and rappelling down waterfalls up to 120m tall. 🤯

There are three levels of canyoning tours — beginner, intermediate and advanced. We did the intermediate level which included a fun mix of rappelling, cliff jumps and scrambling over rocks. They also offer coasteering and climbing tours !

Cost: From €60 (~S$87) — incl. all canyoning equipment and attire, just wear a swimsuit and bring a towel Tour timings: Varies

Other adventurous activities in Madeira include water activities like diving, surfing, whale watching and land activities like paragliding and trail running.

13) Explore Funchal

Funchal City Sunset - Madeira Travel Guide

Photo credit: @visitmadeira via Instagram

There are plenty of things to do in Funchal , Madeira’s historic capital!

Like the CR7 Museum which celebrates Madeira’s most famous son. They’ve got all sorts of memorabilia on display including some of Ronaldo’s Golden Boots and Ballon d’Or trophies.

Madeira Funchal Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmer's Market) - Madeira Travel Guide

The Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmer’s Market) is another popular place to visit in Madeira. They’ve got some really, err, interesting fruits. Like the pineapple banana. Yes, there’s such a thing.

Also check out the street art along Rua da Santa Maria, walking distance from the market.

Funchal Monte Toboggan Ride - Madeira Travel Guide

Venice has gondolas , Madeira has toboggans. Dating back to the 19th century, this tradition involved locals zipping down slopes in traditional basket sledges from the village of Monte to Funchal.

The sledge is driven by two drivers called carreiros — who use their thick rubber shoes as brakes. These days, visitors can book a ride (from €15/pax) and experience a 2km-long route!

Madeira Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

PR1 Vereda do Areeiro Hike - Madeira Travel Guide

Flying into Madeira: Madeira’s only airport is in Funchal , its capital. There aren’t any direct flights to Madeira from Singapore, but you can fly in from major cities in Europe like Lisbon, London, Paris, Frankfurt and Amsterdam!

Where to stay in Madeira: We’d recommend staying in Funchal — it’s the largest city with the most accommodation and restaurant options. Most car rental places are found here as well!

Getting around Madeira: Most of the photo spots and hikes are at least a 45-minute drive from Funchal, so the best way to get around Madeira is by renting a car . We rented ours from 7M Rent a Car as it was close to our Airbnb.

Madeira Limpets Seafood - What to eat in Madeira

What to eat in Madeira: Madeira’s location in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, combined with her subtropical climate and fertile soil means the food here is good.

Here are some local Madeira dishes worth trying:

1) Lapas — limpets; a type of shellfish, seasoned with garlic and butter 2) Bolo do caco — round flatbread traditionally cooked on a hot basalt stone slab, served with garlic butter 3) Espetada — grilled beef cooked on skewers, seasoned with garlic, salt and bay leaf 4) Espada — black scabbard fish with banana and passion fruit 5) Poncha — a traditional alcoholic drink made with sugar cane rum, honey and lemon juice

What to eat in Madeira Seafood Espetada - Madeira Travel Guide

Le Bistrot Jacarandá (left) in Funchal was an unexpected find — they’ve got a reasonably priced set lunch (around S$25) that includes a starter, main (you can choose espetada or espada ), dessert and poncha . The food was so good we ended up returning!

We found O Ideal (right) online — they’re known for fresh lapas and other seafood. It’s located on the west coast of Madeira, so we visited on a day trip. The seafood was sinfully buttery, and their bolo do caco was also really addictive. 🤤

PR1 Vereda do Areeiro Foggy - Best Hikes in Madeira

Madeira’s weather: Madeira generally has a mild, pleasant climate. The hottest month is August with average temperatures at 22.5°C, while the coldest is January at 16°C. We were there in February at the tail-end of winter and had beautiful weather — sunny but cool.

That being said, the weather differs in different parts of the island due to varying elevation and wind exposure. During our PR1 Vereda do Areeiro hike, we saw clear skies, fog and snow — all within a few hours.

What to pack: Keeping in mind the weather, here are some useful items to pack for your trip to Madeira! – International driving permit – Windbreaker – Hiking pants  – Hiking shoes – Swimsuit

As someone who loves mountains, beaches and staying active, Madeira was a dream to visit. I only hope I get to return!

Have any tips about travelling to Madeira to add to our Madeira travel guide? Share with us in the comments!

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7-Day Madeira Itinerary: How to See Madeira in One Week

There are places on my endless bucket list that I’ve always wanted to visit and in order to do that I jumped into the world of seasonal work and planned it all way in advance. Then there are those places which are in my mind, but I actually end up  visiting rather spontaneously . However, some destinations I simply fall in love with just by seeing a photo of them. The latter is how we ended up in Madeira, Portugal, which is actually located closer to mainland Africa than it is to  Lisbon .

After seeing more photos of the island, I knew it would be an amazing trip, as it reminded me so much of Hawaii. Little did I know that Madeira would become an extra special place for me! 

If you’d like to know how you can spend 7 days in Madeira and why the island holds a special place in my heart, then keep on reading.

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Table of Contents

The Ultimate 7-Day Madeira Itinerary

Day 1 – explore funchal, the capital city of madeira, landing at one of the world’s most challenging airports….

We arrived late in the evening to Madeira Airport or, as it’s now officially known since 2016, Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport. The airport was considered one of the world’s most challenging airports due to its very short runway of only 1600m. Madeira is not a flat island, so the runway had to use a tiny piece of land on the outskirts of Funchal, with the planes flying dangerously close to the cliffs on approach! However, about 20 years after its opening, expansion of the runway started to take place and the runway got extended by about 1 km. It was built on a giant concrete slab over the sea due to no actual land to expand into. Pilots still suffer with strong winds, making landing a bit more difficult, but I guess nowhere near as terrifying as it must’ve been before the extension.

Once you set foot on the island, I recommend getting either a local bus or the Aero-bus to Funchal. The bus only cost about €8 for a return ticket as Funchal is located about 25km from the airport and a taxi could cost around €30. It’s actually a very nice drive to the city with beautiful landscapes and countless tunnels. 

But be prepared: once you get off the bus you will definitely have some hills to walk up to reach your destination. We learned that the hard way on the first night! One direction in Madeira is always going to be uphill, so make sure to pack some comfortable shoes.

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Top Tip  – Book your flight ticket with  WayAway,  a flight aggregator that provides you with the best rates on airline tickets.

Click here to get 10% off from your WayAway Plus membership plan,  which gives cashback on flights, accommodation, car rentals, tours, and more.

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How to Spend a Day in Funchal, Madeira?

On your first full day of the 7 days in Madeira, I recommend exploring Funchal. 

Start your day by visiting the beautiful gardens of  Monte Palace Madeira . The admission fee for the garden is around €12.50 per person. You can spend hours exploring the different types of gardens, African sculptures and the mineral museum. The easiest and most fun way to get there is by cable car. You have to find the  Madeira Cable Car Station  located in the Old Town which will drop you at the entrance of Monte Palace. One-way costs €11 (€16 for return). The ride takes around 15 minutes and provides you with magnificent views of Funchal and the surrounding mountains.

You can definitely visit gardens on your own, but if you want to learn more about the interesting history of the Monte Palace and Botanical Gardens, check out  this guided tour . 

Top Tip:  If you’d like to descend from the gardens in a unique way, do NOT buy a return ticket for the cable car! Instead, find the group of men dressed in white with straw hats and black rubber boots and ask for a  Toboggan Ride . It’s not cheap (€30 for two) but it’s a unique experience and absolutely worth the speedy 2 km ride down the seriously steep hills and crazy bends. Just a heads up, it doesn’t actually take you all the way to the city centre so you’ll have to walk the rest of the way.

After your crazy morning ride head into the centre of Funchal to find the famous Farmer’s Market ( Mercado dos Lavradores ). You can try at least 5 different types of passionfruit, admire the beautiful flowers and just enjoy the atmosphere.

You can then explore the Old Town of the city. Visit The Church of Our Lady of Monte and the Cathedral of Funchal (Se). Find crazy colourful doors along Rua de Santa Maria  and walk around the beautiful waterfront of Funchal.

Another fun activity would be to take one of the Tukxi tours around the city.  On these tours you can get both unique experiences and information about the history of the city.

Click here to learn some cool facts about Madeira that we bet you didn’t know about.

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Day 2 – Hiking in the Valley of Nuns

How to get to the valley of nuns by public transport.

The first day trip you can easily do without a car is to the Eira Do Serrado Viewpoint, located at 1095m. 

Bus 81, departing from the centre of Funchal, will take you all the way up to the viewpoint for a price of around €6 return. It takes a good 45 minutes for the bus to reach the viewpoint. You have to walk a little further after getting off the bus to get to the amazing panoramic viewing area. I suggest spending about 15-20 minutes admiring the view. 

Top Tip – Watch how fast the clouds can change the view giving the valley a different look in seconds.

Be Prepared – The roads are relatively narrow and very windy with sheer drops on the sides which would make most drivers slow down. Well, take it from me, the bus driver who does this journey on a daily basis will take the turns at a pretty high speed. So, if you’d like to experience a bit of an adrenaline rush then make sure you visit the viewpoint via bus! That first day out of the city we definitely realised that crazy rides can lead to even crazier views in Madeira. (P.S. If you don’t believe me check out my  Instagram  stories from Madeira.)

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The Valley of Nuns Trail and Curral das Freiras Village

From the viewpoint you will see the village of  Curral das Freiras (Nuns Valley) . You can actually walk down to it via a trail if you’d like to get some steps in and would like to really get a feel for how huge these mountain ranges are as you descend. You can take the same bus (Bus 81) back to Funchal from the village too so no need to climb back up. However, you can definitely do the trip the other way around and climb up the valley if you dare.

Once in the village, there isn’t much to do there other than to visit a few local shops and bars and try out their signature chestnut soup which the village is famous for. You can definitely explore the area within a half hour before you hop back onto your bus and take the most amazing, albeit scary, ride back to Funchal.

If you’d to get more information about the Valley, I recommend you take one of the professional tours. (For example, this one includes hotel pickup and drop-off from any hotel in Funchal).

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Day 3 (Road-trip) – Levada Walk​

Driving on the island of madeira – is it scary.

For the rest of the week, we agreed that the best way to truly explore the island would be to hire a car and drive around. When we read about what it’s like to drive in Madeira, lots of people suggested that it’s not always easy and can be quite scary at times. I can definitely confirm that after driving around the whole island. Especially when you are used to driving on the left in England. However, it is truly the best way you can fully explore this beautiful place!

To rent a car on Madeira you can use this company .

Whilst the south of the island is very well connected by the main highway and hundreds of tunnels, if you decide to drive around the entire island – like we did – well, then be ready to ‘climb’ some steep and windy hills. If you happen to get stuck behind a slow moving vehicle – like we did – then don’t get frustrated! Enjoy the many amazing views of the island, but also make sure you don’t get too distracted by the jaw-dropping waterfalls and vistas you will see on your way, as one wrong turn and nothing will stop you from rolling into the deep. (Hands up if you’re now singing the famous Adele song)!

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Risco Waterfall and 25 Fontes Falls Trail

Right, after my lengthy warning about driving, let’s get going shall we? 

Your main destination for the day is the  Valley of Rabaçal , located to the northwest of Funchal. Here you can walk alongside the ‘levadas’ and chase some waterfalls. It’s located high up on a flat plateau, so after slowly driving upwards for over an hour you can park at the car park just off the ER110. From there you can take a minor road leading you down to Rabaçal shelter house. From the house you can then carry on towards either the 100m high  Cascata Do Risco (Risco Waterfall)  or  25 Fontes Falls . It doesn’t really matter which way around you do the walk, but we decided to visit Risco Falls before we backtracked and, at the fork, headed towards 25 Fontes Falls.

Did you know?  – You’re probably itching to know what these ‘levadas’ are, am I right? They are basically man-made channels of water, created out of necessity in the 16th Century, to transport water from the west and northwest of the island to the south, where the climate is much drier.

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Good to Know Before You Go​

Be aware that this particular levada walk is very popular, so expect to meet with plenty of tour groups. My advice is to get there early to avoid the worst crowds. At Risco Falls we were relatively lucky as it wasn’t too crowded. We could really enjoy the show of different water streams merging into one and coming down the mountain. By the time we got to 25 Fontes Falls, however, the crowd was definitely bigger (as it is a popular lunch spot!) but we could still get a few decent pictures.

As it was September the falls weren’t as strong as I saw in some pictures taken at different times of the year, but it was still magical. (Well, if you can ignore the other 60-70 people around you)! Both waterfalls are definitely worth a visit and the whole trip took us about 4 hours. The trail is relatively narrow in places and believe me, you don’t want to be stuck behind a group of 40 slow moving tourists! On our way back to the car we passed at least 3 massive groups and had to pick up a faster pace to get ahead of them.

We definitely recommend you visit these waterfalls on your own. However, if you don’t want to rent a car and/ or would like to know more interesting facts about nature on Madeira, make sure that you take a tour with an experienced mountain guide .

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Angels Waterfall and Cabo Girão

After ticking two waterfalls off your list, I suggest finding another one. Thanks to social media, I spotted this cool waterfall cascading into the middle of the road before it flows into the ocean. Obviously, I just wanted to see it! It’s not too difficult to find but unless you know where it is you could easily miss it. The falls is called  Cascata dos Anjos (Angels Waterfall) and it cascades straight onto the old ER101 regional road in Ponta do Sol. 

Depending on which direction you come from, at the 4-arm roundabout make sure you head towards the ER101 road and don’t be confused if it says ‘local access only’. You can definitely drive the entire length of the road alongside the VE3 tunnel and will get to the same destination eventually (but in a more entertaining way). Even though the falls weren’t as powerful as I saw on other photos it was still a cool drive and a crazy way to get a free car wash don’t you agree?

If there’s still some light left in the day stop at  Cabo Girão  viewpoint. Cabo Girão Cliff is one of the highest in Europe with a vertical drop of almost 600m. So, it’s no wonder a glass skywalk has been built to test tourists’ fear of heights. We arrived later that afternoon so luckily it wasn’t busy at all, which maybe made the glass walk even scarier which I loved! There is no admission fee so during the day it is very crowded, therefore, make sure you time your visit well.

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Day 4 (Road-trip) – Driving Around Madeira

The east of madeira​, ponta de são lourenço​.

On Day 4 I suggest driving around the entire circumference of the island and stop at some amazing places along the way.

Start driving towards the east of the island bright and early because your first stop will be  Ponta de São Lourenço.  It’s the eastern-most point of the island and includes a couple of hours trekking. A car park is located just at the start of the trail so it’s easy to access if you arrive by car. The trail itself is relatively easy but absolutely beautiful.

The 4 km trail will lead you to the  Farol da Ponta de São Lourenço  where you can get some dramatic views of Madeira and the ocean. (After enjoying the view don’t forget that you also have to walk the 4 km back to the car park!)

As you can see on the photo above, the area was very dry at the time we visited. I think some of the locals had said that that summer had been particularly hot. So, it’s no wonder this naturally drier area of the island looked like a desert! But it made the differences in climate within the island even more noticeable.

The East side of Madeira is very historical and traditional so if you have a few extra days to spare, check out this full-day guided tour .

The North of Madeira​

After your morning trekking, head towards Santana to see  Teleférico da Rocha do Navio  (cover photo). This gorgeous cable car is located on the northeast coast of the island. It was built in 1997 to help local farmers in accessing their land. Rocha do Navio (‘ship rock’) comes from a Dutch shipwreck that was found in the 19th Century. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to actually go down and explore the area which I regret. So, if you’re there make sure you give yourself enough time and do it!

After a short but sweet stop at Santana head towards Porto Moniz, a little town located at the northwestern tip of Madeira. The drive is actually pretty amazing in itself, and the drive through  Sao Vicente  definitely reminded me of  Hawaii  because it was so lush with random waterfalls cascading everywhere. 

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It would be a mistake not to stop in  Seixal  and check out the natural black sand beach of  Seixal Beach  with its backdrop of lush green cliffs and countless waterfalls cascading into the sea. To make the place even more interesting, right next to the beach there are some volcanic natural pools ( Poças das Lesmas ) which are worth checking out. 

Top Tip – Have a late lunch here as the view is just way too beautiful to leave behind so quickly. We ate at the only bar by the beach which had some really good food for relatively cheap prices so go ahead and treat yourselves!

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Porto Moniz​

After leaving behind that beautiful scenery head towards  Porto Moniz . The main reason to visit this place is to see the amazing natural pools formed by volcanic lava and naturally filled by the sea every high tide. Once you arrive and park your car, you will realise that Porto Moniz actually has two sets of pools.

The ones overlooking the Ilheu Mole island are completely natural, where you can enjoy the ‘untouched’ version of the pools and can take a swim for free. You can also head towards the western pools which have been converted into Lido pools (Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz). Here, you have to pay a small amount to get in.

Top Tip – The second one is definitely much safer, especially if you are with kids. However, I personally enjoyed the pools to the east in their more natural setting. 

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The West of Madeira​

On your way back you can stop at Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse, the westernmost point of Madeira. The lighthouse was built in 1922 and stands 300m above sea level providing yet another amazing view of the west coast. 

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Day 5 – Hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo in Madeira

A special day above the clouds​.

I was so looking forward to finally seeing and climbing the highest peak in Madeira which was the main reason we actually booked our flight tickets to this island. Little did I know that there would be even more surprises waiting for me at this location. We got up around 5 AM, because the drive from our  hotel  took a good 45 minutes to Pico do Arieiro, where we wanted to see the sunrise before we started the 12 km long trail to Pico Ruivo.

We had to drive at a fast pace because we already saw that the sun was about to come up! Luckily, the roads were pretty good all the way because Pico do Arieiro is actually the site of a NATO radar installation. Once we parked, we ran towards the viewpoint and that first look at the place took my breath away.

We literally stood above the clouds and could still see the moon descending whilst also watching as the sun rose from below the clouds. It was truly magical. I turned around to find my boyfriend on one knee opening a little box and asking ‘The Question’! So that morning, whilst witnessing the most amazing sunrise, above the clouds at 1,818m, I said YES!

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About the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Trail​

Here is some useful information about the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail which will hopefully help you prepare:

Pico Ruivo –  standing 1,862m above sea level- is the highest peak in Madeira. Therefore, it provides a panoramic view over the entire island once you reach the summit. However, the route from Pico do Arieiro consists of steep ridges, slopes and steps, so you have to have at least a basic level of fitness. It also passes through tunnels, so either bring a torch or get your flashlight ready on your phone!  steep 

Make sure you don’t start the hike too late as the round trip takes around 5-6 hours. I recommend checking when the sun goes down at the time of visiting. The path gets busier later so for the best experience head up to watch the sunrise then start your walk straight away. Based on our photo taking time, we reached the summit within 3 hours. Of course, we stopped a lot for pictures and small breaks. The path is well signposted so don’t worry about getting lost. Just stick to the designated path and ‘follow’ the people on it.

Top Tip – If you don’t have a car and would like to take a guided tour, we recommend you take one of the tours that starts early .

What to Wear and Facilities

I was wearing shorts from the start but on the top I was wearing a few layers: a t-shirt, a lightweight shirt and a gilet, because it was rather chilly in the morning at that height. Both the weather and me warmed up pretty quickly so layers are always a good idea. Of course, your outfit could depend on the time of year you’re planning on hiking the trail, but I recommend wearing proper shoes! 

There is a rather expensive restaurant at Pico do Arieiro with toilet facilities, however these aren’t open early in the morning. Of course, there are no toilets along the way, but trust me that there are great opportunities if nature comes calling! There won’t be any chance to get water and food either so come prepared.

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Day 6 – Day Trip to Christo Rei in Madeira

On your last full day you can visit the small village of  Garajau  where you can find the  Cristo Rei viewpoint and  Garajau Beach. Luckily, you can easily reach it by public transport. 

You can admire the view and the windy road at the top and then go down to the beach to have a nice, chilled day after a week of constant hiking. You can either drive or walk down or hop onto a cable car (costs €2.50 round trip) which is probably the best way. The beach is located in the Partial Natural Reserve of Garajau and it’s great for scuba diving. It’s a rocky beach so it’s not the most comfortable to lie on. However, it’s still a nice way to end your 7-day long trip in Madeira.

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Final Thoughts on Madeira

The week we spent in Madeira was definitely filled with breath-taking scenery, numerous hiking and trekking adventures, countless waterfalls, cable car rides, crazy drives and tunnels, natural pools and lighthouse views. I guess these reasons on their own would be enough to fall in love with the place. However, the fact that I got engaged at the top of this island, above the clouds, inevitably made Madeira even more special to me.

As always, here is a map of our trip showing the places we managed to visit in a week. Have you been to Madeira before? How much of the island did you manage to explore? Let me know in the comments section below.

Now, let your adventure begin,

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Our Top Travel Resources

Accommodation:  For hotels we always use  Booking.com  and  Hostelworld  for hostels. We also book longer stays on Airbnb or  Vrbo.

Flights:  To find the best flight prices we always check  Skyscanner ,  Google Flights  or  WayAway.  Then we also check the airlines’ websites too for comparison.

Car Rentals:  We use  Discover Cars  when we want to rent a car as it compares local, national and international companies.

Activities:  If we book organised tours we always check either  GetYourGuide  or  Viator.

Foreign Currency:  Whenever we can we prefer to pay in local currency and for that we always use our  Wise card.   We can easily withdraw money from the ATM or pay by card at most shops and restaurants.

Travel Insurance: We never go anywhere without travel insurance. You never know what will happen on your trip, so good travel insurance like SafetyWing can protect you in case of injury, illness, theft and cancellations.

eSIM and VPN: To get data abroad we use  Airalo which is an app that allows you to download a prepaid eSIM to your phone in over 190 countries. Make sure to have a VPN to avoid hackers accessing your personal data when using public WIFI. We use  Surfshark  which is the only VPN that offers one account on unlimited devices. 

Remember…It all starts with a Pin…

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44 comments.

Wow you’ve really included some awesome places in this itinerary! Curral das Freiras looks amazing! Pinned for future travel 🙂

Thank you Patricija I’m happy to hear that you enjoyed my itinerary. Nun’s Valley is definitely stunning so I’m sure you’ll enjoy the views as much as I did.

I’m dying to go to Madeira! I’d love to take the cable car and toboggan ride! What a great place to get engaged!

Madeira is such a beautiful island and I’m sure you’ll have lots of fun riding cable cars and sliding down some steep streets.

Ah Madeira has been on my bucket list for some time but now I REALLY want to go! It looks absolutely spectacular! What a stunning place! And what a beautiful spot to get engaged congratulations!

Thank you Hannah, I’m so happy to hear that you’d like to visit Madeira. The island is stunning and there’s so much to do there, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing trip.

I would love to make it to Madeira one day – it looks so pretty! Thank you for sharing this informative itinerary.

I’m glad you found my itinerary useful Krista, I hope you can visit Madeira in the near future 🙂

Looks absolutely beautiful, I’ll definitely have to add this to my list! Congratulations on the engagement! <3

Thank you very much I hope you can visit Madeira in the near future 🙂

It’s amazing you can get this all accomplished in just one week. I’m going to bookmark this for next time!

Thank you Jamie, we never notice how much we actually do at a new destination until I sit down and summarise it all. Hope you can visit Madeira soon.

What a great post! On such a beautiful place as well!

Thank you Charlotte I’m happy you enjoyed my post.

This is such a great and detailed guide. I’ve been to Funchal but I’m dying to go back and explore these other places! Thankfully I arrived by boat so I didn’t have to deal with the scary airport! haha

So glad to hear that you’ve been to Funchal before and you would like to return to Madeira to see more of it. If you enjoyed Funchal then I’m sure you’ll love the rest of the island too. If you take a flight next time, just don’t watch any YouTube videos about planes landing at the airport 🙂

This is one of the best itineraries for Madeira I’ve read so far. Thanks for putting it together. The photos are stunning! Saving this for my next trip 🙂

Thank you for the lovely comment Nora, I’m so happy to hear that my itinerary is very informative. Hope you can travel to Madeira soon.

My hubby and I dream of the Azores and I actually might do this trip in 2021! It is only 5 hours from Boston and so doable! We want to start with Madeira and eventually make our way through more of the islands. My grandfather was born in the Azores and immigrated to the US and he never stopped loving these islands!

How amazing that your grandfather was born in the Azores. The islands are very high on my bucket list, especially after seeing all the amazing photos. Such a great idea to visit these stunning islands, I hope you can do the trip this year.

Your whole post is inspiring and the photos are amazing! My favorite, of course, is from Pico do Arieiro, congratulations! What an incredible place to commit your lives to each other, wishing you the very best.

Thank you so much for the lovely comment Erica. Pico do Arieiro definitely became one of my favourite places I’ve ever been.

What a gorgeous article, I could look at these photos all day! We are planning to travel to Madeira next year and I saved this article since it has so much useful information. I am especially looking forward to seeing North of Madeira​.Thanks for sharing

Thank you so much Bozena I’m glad to hear that Madeira is on your radar. The island is beautiful so I’m sure you’ll enjoy your trip.

Loved your post! We’re planning an April Madeira/Azores trip right now. Can’t wait to follow your itinerary. Congrats on your engagement! We’ll be celebrating our 41st anniversary. It’s wonderful to have a “partner in adventure”. Best, Jan

Thank you so much for the lovely comment Jan and also congratulations on your anniversary! We fell in love with Madeira so I’m sure you’ll also love exploring the island. The Azores have been on our bucket list for the longest time so I’ll keep an eye on your blog. Kitti x

This seems to be a perfect trip ! Did you stay at the same place during the whole trip or did you move from a hotel to another one ?

Thank you so much for your comment. Yes we stayed in Funchal the entire week and rented a car which we used for our day trips.

What a fantastic article! I visited a few weeks ago for 4 days and I loved it! The nature and outdoorsy feel to the island really left me wanting to come back to explore more!

Thanks for sharing this!

Thank you so much Bea. Glad the hear that you had a fantastic time in Madeira. Although we did a few hiking trails I felt the same as you at the end and really hope to return to hike even more.

Thanks for sharing your itinerary. Makes me want to be there right now. Do you think it is possible to see the island without a car? Ta

Thank you for your comment Lu, Madeira is really beautiful. Yes it is possible to tour around the island without a car. We visited the Valley of Nuns with public transportation, and there are other places to get to by bus. Alternatively there are also plenty of tours if public transport is more complicated.

thank you , it was very helpful!!

I’m happy to hear that you found the post helpful.

We are planning a trip in January, 2023. Your itinerary and photos are very helpful. Would you change anything in your itinerary given we will be visiting in January?

Thank you for your comment, we’re happy to hear that you find our guide helpful. Madeira will be a great destination in January as the average sea temperatures will be around 18 Celsius. Perhaps I would pack a few warmer layers for the evenings and when you go hiking as it’ll be cooler higher up. Make sure to also check the mountain weather before your hike as snow might be present this time around. Hope this helps and you’ll have a lovely time on the island.

Hello! Thank you for sharing all of this detailed information! It seems like it was a beautiful trip! I am curious, did you stay based at one hotel/accommodation in Funchal for the full time you were there? Or did you spend nights at other locations around the island? I am thinking about visiting and wondering if I should just stay in Funchal for 7 days or if I should move accommodations every few nights! Thank you so much !!

Hi Jennifer, thank you for your comment. We based ourselves in a hotel in Funchal for the entire week and just drove to places we wanted to visit from there. This worked for us just fine, but we had quite a few early mornings to beat the crowds and get to places for sunrise etc.

If you have a map of the places you want to visit, we suggest to perhaps split your time in Madeira between two locations, depending on which one is closer to most of the places and activities you want to do. We did the same when we visited Crete, Greece and it definitely helped us to get to certain spots without having to get up super early.

We hope this helps and that you’ll have a fantastic time in Madeira.

Thank you so much for the advice!! Very good insight – I may stay at 2 locations to change up the scenery (and avoid a few early early mornings! ☺️) Thank you again! Your post and photos are very inspiring – I am looking forward to visiting as a result of reading about your visit!! All the best to you from Chicago, -Jennifer

Thank you so much for your feedback Jennifer, hope you’ll have a fantastic time in Maderia.

Hi Kitti , Congratulations on the engagement!! Love the blog as well, really useful, and would be using it as my base for our upcoming travels to Madeira. We will be spending 7 days on the island as well. Your hotel was in Funchal for the entire time or you would move your accommodation around? Have a superb day, Hugs from a fellow Hungarian, Szilvi

Hey Szilvi,

Thank you for your lovely comment and feedback. We’re happy to hear that you’ll be following our itinerary on your upcoming trip to Madeira.

We based ourselves in Funchal for the entire week and just drove to places we wanted to visit from there. We didn’t mind it, but we definitely had some very early mornings to beat the crowds and get to places for sunrise.

Looking back now we would probably split our stay between two locations (especially if you’ll be renting a car), so you might not need to get up super early and drive a lot.

We hope this helps and that you’ll have a fantastic time in Madeira.

(u.i. Koszonjuk szepen a kommentet, es jo utat kivanunk 🙂

Thanks so much for this detailed itinerary! We’re hopefully going in February so this is really helpful! Did you stay at one place or different places depending on where you’re planning to go?

Thank you for your comment. We stayed in Funchal for the entire week, however, this meant that we had quite a few early mornings. You can split your stay between two places if you want to avoid early wake up calls and longer drives. Hope this helps and you have a lovely time in Madeira.

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EUROPE , PORTUGAL , ROAD TRIP · January 17, 2022 Last Updated on December 22, 2023

ULTIMATE 7-DAY ROAD TRIP ITINERARY FOR MADEIRA, PORTUGAL

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If you’re looking for a European adventure that is a little different from the mainland, then look no further than Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal. Dubbed the ‘Hawaii of Europe’, this small island in the Atlantic is truly a nature lover’s dream and the ideal destination for a summer break.

Whether you want to relax on a beach, hike some epic trails, be at one with marine life, or pay homage to world-famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, there is something in Madeira to suit everyone.

How Long Do You Need To Visit Madeira?

Madeira is a pretty small island, and so luckily you don’t need very long to see all of the incredible things that this destination has to offer. If you’re looking to experience the must-dos then a short four-day break would be fine. However, a week is the perfect amount of time to really make the most of the island.

Tips For Hiring A Car In Madeira

Although the island is small, public transport is limited, and so the easiest way to get around is by hiring a car. There are plenty of car hire options available at the airport or in the main city of Funchal. These are very affordable, however, it is worth noting that during peak seasons car hire can become fully booked pretty quickly. Driving in Madeira is easy, for the most part.

Bear in mind of course that they drive on the right, and always follow the speed limit and road laws while driving here. One useful tip is to pay the extra fee for an automatic since the island is very mountainous and some of the roads are very steep! Having an automatic on these roads will make driving a lot easier.

As mentioned, there is plenty to keep you busy on this island. From epic hiking trails to beautiful viewpoints, mountains, wildlife, flora and fauna. Below is the ultimate seven-day road trip itinerary for visiting Madeira.

Ultimate Seven Day Road Trip Itinerary For Madeira

This itinerary begins in Funchal and does an entire clockwise loop of the island so that you finish back in Funchal at the end of the trip. The best thing about Madeira is that nothing is too far of a drive, so if you are short on time, you can mix and match the below itinerary to suit your time frame!

It also means that if you prefer, you can keep Funchal as your base for your accommodation.

Day 1 – Funchal

Funchal is the main (and largest) town in Madeira, and home to footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. For that reason, you can expect to find a lot of statues, plaques and museums honouring him. You can also see his current home (from the outside of course) if you are into football. Wander a little further along the seafront from his house to the CR7 museum to learn more about the man himself.

If football isn’t your thing, then Funchal has an adorable old town that is worth exploring. It’s also the best spot on the island to take part in a Whale and Dolphin watching tour. The best time of year for this excursion is from April till October since this is when there are the most species in the area.

In Funchal, you will also find the cable cart, which takes you from the seafront up the hill to the suburb of Monte. It is definitely worth spending an afternoon taking a one-way trip up. When in Monte, you can visit Monte Palace botanical gardens, and take part in traditional sledging to get halfway back down the hill. From the sledging finish point, it is an easy walk back down to Funchal.

Day 1 Highlights

  • Funchal Cable cart
  • Monte palace botanical gardens
  • Monte sledging
  • Dolphin/whale watching

Total driving : 30 minutes (from Madeira airport – Funchal)

Day 2 – Ponta Do Sol

Leaving Funchal and heading west, the first stop of the day is Cabo Girão Skywalk. This observation deck juts out of some of the highest cliffs in Europe, giving you a fantastic view of Madeira’s coastline. Although the glass walkway is not for the faint-hearted, you will be treated to some stunning views, and it is also completely free to visit.

After the thrill of the skywalk, head to Calhau da Lapa. This hard to reach patch of coastline is well worth the visit since it is said to have the clearest waters in all of Madeira. For this reason, it makes an excellent spot for swimming and relaxing.

Once you’re done swimming in the crystal clear waters, head back to the car and drive to Miradouro do Espigão for epic views across the valley’s green hills! There isn’t anything else to do here apart from admiring the view and getting some great photo opportunities, so it is a short stop on the day’s itinerary.

The next stop is an 8.5km hike to Nova and Moinho Waterfall. The Levada do Moinho starts on Lombada da Ponta do Sol, near the Church of the Lombada. The hike itself is a moderate, circular route that should take you about 3-4 hours.

One thing to note about this hike is that it can get very steep, so for those with vertigo, or medical conditions such as asthma, you may find this hike more challenging than others.

Day 2 Highlights

  • Cabo Girão Skywalk
  • Calhau da Lapa
  • Miradouro do Espigão
  • Nova and Moinho Waterfall
  • Cais da Ponta do Sol

Total driving : 1 hour 30 minutes  (2 hours and 5 minutes if Funchal is your base)

Day 3 – 25 Fontes Hike And Beaches

The first stop on day 3 of the itinerary is probably one of the most iconic waterfalls on the island of Madeira. Cascata dos Anjos is a waterfall that actually cascades from the cliff onto one of the old coastal roads, which is still accessible. This is a really unique spot and makes for excellent photo opportunities!

Next up is Praia da Madalena do Mar, a relaxing beachfront with calm waters, ideal for chilling and swimming. If sitting around on the beach isn’t your thing and you’re itching to get active, then head straight to the start of the 25 Fontes trail. This is one of the most popular hikes in Madeira, where you will experience lush greenery, and plenty of lagoons and waterfalls (as its name suggests).

The hike is an 11km round trip, generally pretty moderate but with some steep parts. The entire hike will likely take you around 4 hours. As it is one of Madeira’s most popular trails, it can get very busy, so bear that in mind if visiting in peak season.

If you are looking for a hiking trail that is slightly more challenging, and less busy than the popular 25 Fontes, then Levada da Rocha Vermelha is another great option. Arguably a much more peaceful, yet more adventurous hike, it will take you right through one of the longest tunnels in Madeira before you get to fully explore Rabacal Valley.

The total distance of this hike is 15km, in and back out, and will likely take you 6 hours comfortably. For this reason, it is better to prioritise either 25 Fontes, or Levada da Rocha Vermelha, since you won’t have time to do both in one day!

The final stop of day three is Praia da Calheta, one of Madeira’s only sandy beaches! It is the perfect place to relax and cool down in the sea after your hike. A short 15-minute drive from the beach is Miradouro da Raposeira, a stunning viewpoint on the edge of the cliffs which makes for an incredible sunset spot!

Day 3 Highlights

  • Cascata dos Anjos, Ponta do Sol
  • Praia da Madalena do Mar
  • 25 Fontes Hike
  • Levada da Rocha Vermelha
  • Praia da Calheta
  • Miradouro da Raposeira

  Total driving : 1 hour 25 minutes (2 hour 30 minutes Funchal is your base)

Day 4 – Lombo Queimado And Santa Maria Madalena

Day four looks a lot busier than the previous three days. The first stop is Levada Prazeres – Raposeira, a gentle hike that is great no matter which time of year you visit. It is a very easy 6.7km hike which should take 2-4 hours and will give you a great opportunity to see lots of local flora and fauna. After the hike, head to Miradouro do Massapez for a short stop to admire more epic panoramic views of Madeira’s coastline. 

Next, head to the area of Lombo Queimado, where you can head to the viewpoint of Garganta Funda and hike to the lighthouse. In this area, you can also visit Pico Vermelho, an adorable red and white windmill that stands on the edge of Madeira overlooking the ocean. 

Miradouro do Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz is the next stop on the itinerary for today. This extremely steep cable cart offers you incredible views out to the crashing waves of the Atlantic ocean, whilst transporting you down to Fajã da Quebrada Nova, a tiny isolated town that is one of the most unique places on the island. 

The final stop on today’s itinerary is Miradouro Ponta da Ladeira, another incredible viewpoint, particularly to watch the sun go down. 

Day 4 Highlights

  • Levada Prazeres – Raposeira
  • Miradouro do Massapez
  • Garganta Funda Viewpoint
  • Pico Vermelho
  • Miradouro do Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz
  • Miradouro Ponta da Ladeira

Total driving : 1 hour 15 minutes (3 hours 5 minutes if Funchal is your base)

Day 5 – Porto Moniz & Seixal

Porto Moniz is a tiny coastal town in the northwest corner of Madeira. With a total population of around 3000 people, there isn’t a huge amount to do here, but the natural swimming pools on the coastline is what attracts most of its visitors. The pools are formed by volcanic lava and filled with crystal clear seawater, which makes it a very unique spot for swimming. 

The unique rock formations along the coastline at Mirador Ilhéus da Ribeira da Janela are a travel and landscape photographer’s dream. The tall rocks jut out of the Atlantic Ocean, with its waves crashing against them creating a pale white foam that contrasts the deep blue hues of the water. It is well worth a stop, whether that’s for a long wander along the beach or a quick snap of some photos. 

The third stop of the day is Fanal Pond / Fanal Forest. This area is described as one of Madeira’s most magical areas, since the mist that envelopes the area makes the forest feel like something out of a fairytale. Due to the pretty stable weather, Fanal forest is one place that is great to visit year-round. You can spend as little time or as much time as you’d like here, as there are also a couple of hiking options in the area. 

The final stop of the day is Seixal, a small town along the northern coast of Madeira. Here you will experience black sand beaches, incredible Jurassic-esque landscapes and the Poça das Lesmas (natural pools).  Next up is Ribeira do Inferno, arguably one of the most beautiful spots on the island. It is typically a lot quieter than some of the main attractions and offers lush green canyon views, which separate Seixal from São Vicente.

Day 5 Highlights

  • Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools
  • Mirador Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela
  • Poça das Lesmas
  • Seixal beach
  • Ribeira do Inferno

Total driving : 1 hour (2 hours 40 minutes if Funchal is your base)

Day 6 – Surfing, Hiking & Traditional Houses Of Santana

Once back on the road, a stop at Miradouro do Bom Jesus is well worth it for incredible views across the northern coastline. For wine lovers, you can find a handful of wineries and vineyards in Madeira, one of which is Terra Bona Nature & Vineyards.

Here you can either take part in a tasting experience in their vineyard, or you can opt for a sail & wine sunset tour! If you would prefer to do a bit more swimming, head to the Ruins of St. George, the stone ruins of an old sugar mill right on the beach. 

Levada do Caldeirão Verde is another popular hike on the island. With a name that translates to ‘Green Cauldron’, you can expect to see plenty of lush greenery, waterways and lagoons on this stunning 11.5km hike. It’s a fairly moderate hike that will take you on a 3-5 hour round trip, and will serve up some beautiful views across the valley. 

After the hike, head to the town of Santana to visit some of the traditional Madeiran houses! 

If you’re into surfing, then the beaches surrounding Porto da Cruz are an excellent spot to do so. If you’re a novice, then there are plenty of surf schools in the area where you can give it a try! 

Day 6 Highlights

  • Miradouro do Bom Jesus
  • Terra Bona Nature & Vineyards
  • Ruins of St. George
  • Levada do Caldeirão Verde
  • Santana + Traditional houses
  • Surfing in Porto da Cruz

Total driving : 1 hour 42 minutes (3 hours if Funchal is your base)

Day 7 – Sunrise, Snorkelling And Sunset

The final day of this itinerary begins with a sunrise hike along Sao Lourenco. The terrain here is very different to the other hikes encountered so far on this itinerary. Instead of lush green forests and cascading waterfalls, you will find a more desert-like landscape. Suncream will be very welcome on this hike since there is little shade and it can get very hot in the peak summer months. 

Praia de Machico is another of Madeira’s very few white sand beaches, of which the sand is actually imported from North Africa! This is the ideal spot for beach bums, as it makes for great sunbathing or swimming and those seeking something a little more adventurous can also jet ski here.

Anyone who wants to get a little more up close and personal with marine life can head to Garajau Partial Nature Reserve, where you can snorkel or dive to your heart’s content! This marine area is protected, and so you can expect to see an abundance of different varieties of fish and even groups of Atlantic Manta Rays!

The final stop on this packed seven-day itinerary for Madeira is at the top of the island’s third-highest peak. Head to Pico do Areeiro for a sunset you won’t forget, with a backdrop that spans Madeira’s central mountains, engulfed in cotton candy clouds. If you have time on the drive up to the peak, you can also take a quick stop at Balcões Levada – another great viewpoint.

Day 7 Highlights

  • Sao Lourenco 
  • Praia de Machico
  • Garajau Partial Nature Reserve 
  • Pico do Areeiro

Total driving : 1 hour 26 minutes (2 hours 35 minutes if Funchal is your base)

We hope this article has inspired you to visit Madeira, Portugal. If you have any questions or advice to share with our readers, please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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Read More About Portugal

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  • 10 Reasons To Visit Porto, Portugal
  • Tried & Tested Places To Find Great Food In Lagos, Portugal

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Travel Done Clever says

June 22, 2022 at 1:48 am

Thanks for a great post about gorgeous Madeira. This pretty island has been on our bucket list for a long time and we cannot wait to explore it this summer! Safe travels, Martina & Andrej.

Barry Steamer says

August 16, 2023 at 1:29 pm

Do you have recommendations for accommodations and eateries for each day if we choose not to return to Funchal each evening?

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Madeira Secret

The Complete Madeira Travel Guide in 2023

Madeira Travel Guide: One of the views with blue ocean and cliff in Madeira

Are you looking for the perfect escape? Surrounded by breathtaking nature and history, a trip to Madeira could be just what your wanderlust soul is seeking! From stunning landscapes, picturesque mountain vistas, and hidden coves; to exploring its culinary delights, energetic festivals and exciting activities – there’s something for everyone in this idyllic archipelago.

In this complete Madeira travel guide, we’ll let you in on all of our top tips for experiencing the best that this incredible destination has to offer. Discover why even after over five centuries since its discovery it remains an alluring place, dazzling with undeniable beauty. So buckle up as we take off on an unforgettable journey uncovering one of Europe’s most spectacular islands!

Table of Contents

What is the best month to go to madeira.

Are you contemplating a trip to the captivating Madeira Islands? Are you wondering when is the best time to go? Well, with its stunning natural beauty, rich history, warm hospitality, and mild climate there truly is no bad time of year to visit. However, depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for – whether it’s surfing sunny beaches or exploring fog-shrouded peaks – one month may standout as better than the others. In this blog post we’ll explore which period offers up the ideal amalgamation of factors for a perfect getaway in Madeira. So let’s dive right into exploring why each month makes an excellent window for visiting this gorgeous archipelago!

Overview of Madeira’s Year-Round Climate

If you’re looking for a temperate escape that’s welcoming year-round, Madeira might be just the destination for you. Nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, this sunny Portuguese island boasts a warm, subtropical climate. With average temperatures hovering in the 70s and 80s (Fahrenheit) throughout the year, you can enjoy outdoor adventures, blissful relaxation, and everything in between, no matter when you visit. Whether you’re a sun worshipper or not, Madeira weather is sure to make you feel right at home. So why not book a ticket and see for yourself? Your perfect climate is just a plane ride away.

January – Enjoy the Off Season with Mild Temperatures and Fewer Tourists

January might not be the first month that comes to mind when planning a vacation, but it can actually offer a lot of benefits for travel enthusiasts. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season behind us, January is the perfect time to sit back, relax, and enjoy some peace and quiet.

And, while the temperatures may be mild, the tourist crowds are much thinner, giving you ample breathing room to explore and enjoy your surroundings without feeling rushed or pushed along. Plus, with fewer travelers around, you’ll also find better deals and prices on accommodations and activities. So why not take advantage of January’s off-season charm and plan your next adventure?

On mountains of Madeira in January

February – Harness the Power of the Spring Winds for Surfing and Kite Surfing

February may be the heart of winter, but that doesn’t mean you can’t tap into the energy of the upcoming season. In fact, this is the perfect time to harness the power of the spring winds for some exhilarating water sports – surfing and kite surfing, to be precise. Imagine feeling the wind whip through your hair as you ride across the waves, soaring through the air on a kite.

The adrenaline rush alone is enough to chase away the winter doldrums. With the right gear and a willingness to take on a new challenge, you can experience the thrill of being one with the elements. So why not take advantage of this unique window of opportunity and try your hand at surfing or kite surfing in February? You might just discover a new passion while also enjoying the magic of the season.

March – Participate in the Cabo Girão International Music Festival

March is the perfect time to head to Cabo Girão and immerse yourself in the International Music Festival. With musicians from all over the world coming together to perform, there’s no shortage of great music to be heard. But the festival is about more than just the music. It’s a celebration of culture and creativity, and a chance to connect with people from all over the globe.

Whether you’re a music lover, a traveler, or just someone looking for a fun and unique experience, this festival is not to be missed. So pack your bags, grab some sunscreen, and get ready to dance to the beat of a multicultural rhythm in the beautiful island of Madeira.

April – Explore the Lavish Flora that Covers the Island During This Month

April is the perfect month to indulge in the lush flora that covers the island. The air is filled with the sweet fragrances of blooming flowers and the verdant greenery is in full bloom, creating a colorful and vibrant ambiance. The island offers a diverse range of plant species, from towering palm trees to exotic orchids that can be found in hidden corners.

It’s an experience that can be savored with all the senses – the soft petals brushing against your skin, the delicate fragrance of the flowers, and the gentle rustling of the leaves in the breeze. So come and explore the lavish flora that covers the island during this month, and let the natural beauty of the surroundings envelop you in its embrace.

May – Escape to the Mountains and Embrace Nature at its Best

Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of city life? Are you yearning to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature? Look no further than the mountains this May. Escape to the serene beauty of rolling hills and snow-capped peaks. Take a breath of fresh mountain air and let the stress melt away.

Hike through acres of untouched wilderness, enjoy panoramic views, and soak in hot springs. Experience nature’s best up close and personal. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a relaxing getaway, the mountains have something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head for the hills this May – you won’t regret it.

Sunset view from Funchal

What Are the Benefits Of Travelling Off-Season?

Off-season travel offers a plethora of benefits, including reduced crowds, lower prices, and a more authentic local experience. With fewer tourists around, you can visit popular destinations and attractions at your own pace, without the need to compete for space or wait in long lines. Additionally, off-season travel often comes with discounted accommodation rates and airfares, allowing you to stretch your vacation budget further. The quieter atmosphere allows you to connect more deeply with the local culture, as residents have more time to interact with visitors and share their customs, traditions, and stories.

On the other hand, peak-season travel presents its own set of advantages. The weather is usually at its finest during these months, ensuring that you can fully enjoy outdoor activities and attractions. Furthermore, peak-season often coincides with various festivals, events, and celebrations, providing you with the opportunity to witness and partake in unique cultural experiences. While the crowds may be larger, the energy and excitement of peak-season can be contagious, creating unforgettable memories and connections with fellow travelers. Ultimately, whether you choose to visit during the off-season or peak-season, Madeira’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage will provide a remarkable and fulfilling travel experience.

Is Madeira Expensive?

The cost of living in Madeira varies depending on your travel preferences, but there are options for luxury, mid-range, and budget travelers. Below, we’ll answer if Madeira is expensive or not. We’ll discuss accommodations, activities, must-visit locations, and tips for saving money during your stay.

Also, check out our article about comparing Madeira Island vs Portugal Mainland

Accommodations

  • Luxury: High-end hotels and resorts in Madeira can cost between €150-€400 per night. Some popular options include Belmond Reid’s Palace, Savoy Palace, and The Cliff Bay.
  • Mid-range: Comfortable hotels and guesthouses are available for €50-€150 per night. Examples include Hotel Baía Azul, Pestana CR7 Funchal, and Quinta da Penha de França.
  • Budget: Hostels, Airbnb rentals, and budget hotels can be found for as low as €20-€50 per night. Look for options like Phil’s Haven Hostel, Santa Maria Hostel, or Residencial Pina.
  • Luxury: Private yacht charters, guided tours, and wine tastings are available for those looking to indulge. Expect to spend €100-€300 per person for these experiences.
  • Mid-range: Group tours, such as levada walks, whale watching, and jeep safaris, and surfing typically cost between €30-€80 per person.
  • Budget: Hiking, visiting local markets, and exploring the island’s natural beauty are all free or low-cost activities for budget-conscious travelers.

Surfing in Madeira

Must-Visit Locations & Associated Costs

  • Funchal : Madeira’s capital city offers a range of attractions, including the CR7 Museum (€5), Madeira Botanical Garden (€6), and the Mercado dos Lavradores (free entrance).
  • Cabo Girão : This impressive sea cliff features a glass-bottomed skywalk (free) and provides stunning views of the island’s coastline.
  • Pico do Arieiro : Hike to Madeira’s third-highest peak for breathtaking panoramic views. The hike is free, but transportation to the trailhead can cost €20-€50 depending on your starting point.
  • Santana : Visit the traditional A-frame houses (free) and explore the nearby levadas and hiking trails.
  • Porto Moniz : Enjoy natural volcanic rock pools (€1.50 entrance fee) and the surrounding coastal scenery.

Transportation

  • Car rental: Renting a car in Madeira can cost between €25-€60 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental company.
  • Public transportation: Buses are available throughout the island, with a single ticket costing around €2-€5, depending on the distance.
  • Taxis: Taxi fares vary depending on the distance and time of day, but expect to pay around €1-€2 per kilometer.
  • Luxury: Fine dining restaurants can cost between €50-€100 per person, excluding drinks.
  • Mid-range: Casual restaurants and cafes offer meals for around €15-€30 per person.
  • Budget: Local markets and street food stands provide budget-friendly options, with meals costing as little as €5-€10 per person.

Madeira Travel Guide: Poncha and Prego

Money-Saving Tips

  • Take advantage of free or low-cost attractions, such as hiking, visiting local markets, and exploring Madeira’s natural beauty.
  • Use public transportation or rent a car to explore the island at a lower cost than taxis or guided tours.
  • Eat at local markets and street food stands for budget-friendly meal options.
  • Travel during the off-peak season (November to March) when prices for accommodations and activities are generally lower.

How Many Days Do You Need in Madeira Portugal?

Your itinerary depends on what you want to see and do in Madeira. If you’re there primarily for the stunning landscapes, a 5-day itinerary could suffice, allowing you to explore the main attractions such as Pico Ruivo, the highest peak, and Cabo Girão, the second highest cliff in the world, São Lourenço, Monte Palace, Porto Moniz, Fanal and others.

Keep in mind that some attractions you can only reach in a couple of hours from Funchal. And don’t forget about the way back!

If you wish to immerse yourself in the local culture, consider spending additional days visiting Funchal’s historic sites, tasting Madeira wine, and participating in traditional festivals.

Where To Stay In Madeira?

There are a variety of fantastic locations to stay in Madeira, depending on your preferences.

  • Funchal , the capital city of Madeira, is often recommended as an ideal place for first-time visitors due to its luxury hotels, fabulous museums, and a mix of history and views. Some of the best hotels in Funchal include Savoy Palace and Golden Residence Hotel.
  • For those who enjoy beach towns, Ponta do Sol is a highly recommended area. It’s also a great place for hiking enthusiasts.
  • If you prefer a quieter location surrounded by green mountains and a black sand beach, São Vicente on the north of Madeira would be a good choice.
  • For a small town experience, Calheta located on the southwest coast of Madeira is known for its beautiful scenery.
  • Lastly, Caniço is mentioned as a slightly more affordable option than Funchal while still offering a great experience.

Remember to check out more detailed reviews and information before making a final decision.

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Madeira Tourist Information Office

Madeira Travel Guide: everything you need to know

Welcome to our ultimate Madeira travel guide, specifically written for backpackers. Ancient Greek geographers referred to the archipelago region of the Madeira Islands as Macaronesia, meaning “Islands of the Blessed”, a name that holds true to their beauty, nature, history, culture, and traditions. If the Madeira Islands were not already on your travel radar, they will be by the end of this complete guide!

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What are the Madeira Islands?

The Madeira Islands are cradled i n the North Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Europe and Africa and are recognized as Natural Reserves. This region of Portugal is autonomous and is made up of four islands: Madeira , Porto Santo , Desertas, and Selvagens . These islands are known for rich biodiversity, impressive waterfalls, hiking routes, and landscapes.

Not all these islands are inhabited. Can you guess why? A beautiful landscape is not always a livable one. The natural landscape in Madeira and Porto Santo permit people to live on these two islands.

The names of the Desertas and Selvagens Islands are a clue as to why they are uninhabited. In English, Desertas means Deserted, and Selvagens means Savage. Their rugged and harsh natural environment makes them difficult for people to access and live on.

HIKING : With over 130 hiking trails, there’s a trail for every backpacker! The Vereda dos Balcões is a great trail for beginners, and the hike from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo is great for the well-seasoned hiker!

No question, the Madeira Islands are a hot spot. This dormant shield volcano is known for its vibrant and lush vegetation thanks to the mineral-rich volcanic soil. With volcanic soil comes rocky and hilly terrain.

Craving the views below water? Say no more! Go diving and see the beauty surrounding the Islands. Or hit up the waves and go surfing.

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Getting Around Madeira Island

There are different ways of getting around Madeira Island depending on where you begin your trip and what your budget is.

🚌 GO BY BUS ON MADEIRA ISLAND:

Busses are reliable but a bit chaotic in Madeira. Each town has its own public transportation service, while different towns are connected by different bus companies, depending on the area. You have 4 main companies: Horarios do Funchal , SAM , EACL and Rodoeste .

In Funchal and suburbs: Horários do Funchal is a company that can easily get you in and out of Funchal. Besides Funchal suburbs and Câmara de Lobos, this urban bus service will also take you to several tourist attractions, such as Pico dos Barcelos, Monte or the Botanical Garden.

A bus ticket costs €1.35 EUR ($1.53 USD) if you purchase it ahead of time, €1.95 EUR ($2.21 USD) if you buy it on board and €4.50 EUR ($5.09 USD) for a day pass. For bus times , be sure to check out the timetable for urban and interurban trips.

On the go? Download the HF Bus App to know the schedule wherever you are.

From Funchal: by using SAM and EACL bus services you can go east to Caniço, Santa Cruz, Madeira Airport, Machico, Santo da Serra and Porto da Cruz. Rodoeste , whose buses stop in Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira brava, Ponta do Sol, Madalena do Mar, Calheta, Porto Moniz and São Vicente, ensures transportation to the western part of Madeira. Ceck out this map to see different areas served by Rodoeste, and the relative fares. The most expensive bus ticket is 6€, and allows you to reach Porto Moniz from Funchal.

🚗 GO BY CAR ON MADEIRA ISLAND:

The most common way to get around Madeira Island is by car. The roads are in great conditions pretty much all over the island, however they may be narrow or very steep at some points. Also, you will be driving on the right side of the road.

Here is everything you need to know about getting around by car on Madeira:

TAXI: The initial fare for your average taxi ride in Funchal starts at €3.50 EUR ($4 USD) and will cost approximately €3 EUR ($3.40 USD) per 5km. You can use the Táxi Madeira App to help plan your travels.

UBER: The base price for an Uber ride in Funchal starts at €1.00 EUR ($1.13 USD).

BOLT: The base price for a Bolt ride in Funchal starts at €1.09 EUR ($1.23 USD) and will cost € 0.59 EUR/km ($0.67 USD/km) and € 0.27 EUR/min ($0.31 USD/min). The minimum fare is € 2.50 EUR ($2.83 USD) /ride.

CAR RENTAL: For a standard sedan, renting a car will cost about €25 EUR ($28 USD) /day in low season. For a larger car or during busier seasons, expect to pay closer to €40 EUR ($45 USD) /day or more. Before booking, contact the rental agency via email to learn more about prices and what cars are currently available. We recommend booking your car rental prior to your arrival or renting it directly in Funchal, not at the airport. You can always ask for a pick-up at the airport!

GAS STATIONS: Unlike other European countries where you can find different prices depending on the brand, in Madeira, the price of gas is pretty much the same across the whole island, with differences of just a couple of cents. Also, you’ll have to refill the tank on your own. How does it work exactly? First, you park your car, you tap the amount (in €) that you’d like to refill and then you put the gas. Once you’re done with the refueling you will look for the cash desk and pay.

VISITING THE DIFFERENT ISLANDS:

PORTO SANTO : To reach the largest Island, Madeira, you can arrive by air at its capital Funchal. If you wish to start your travels in Porto Santo, you can fly to its capital Vila Baleira. Ferry rides allow you to travel to and from the Islands with the Porto Santo line . A roundtrip ticket (tourist class) for 1 adult is €59.44 EUR ($67 USD) for April-September and €48.60 EUR ($55 USD) for the rest of the year. NOTE: During the low season (usually January), the connection may be suspended as the ferry undergoes maintenance.

THE DESERTAS: You can reach the Desertas Islands by boat from Funchal, the capital of Madeira. The Deserta Islands are made up of Chão Islet, Bugio, and Deserta Grande. You’ll need to book a group tour to visit this island as access is restricted.

THE SELVAGENS: Visiting the Selvagens Islands can be a bit tricky. The freshwater surrounding the two Islands (Selvagem Grande and Selvagem Pequena) are filled with coral reefs that make accessing the Islands difficult. As a protected Natural Reserve, you need to obtain permission from the Madeira National Park to visit.

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B est Time to Visit Madeira

The climate of the Madeira Islands is mild and people often refer to the weather as an ‘ eternal Spring ‘. Sound enticing?

If you are looking for a warm, sunny destination, the summer months June-September would be the ideal time to visit. Temperatures are around 20-25°C from May to October, while they go down to 13-16°C during winter months, with higher chances of rain.

However, while the summer months may be the most ideal for hiking and beach, waterfalls will most likely be at their minimum in terms of their water flow. Also, during the winter months you will have higher chances to find moody clouds on your hikes, and the island will be greener in general.

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Top Things to Do in Madeira

  • The Madeira Islands are crawling with waterfalls! Most of them are located at the end of a Levada, which are usually very well-mantained trails. Our favourites are the Levada do Caldeirao Verde and the 25 Fountains Levada.
  • Looking for an epic hike? The summit with the highest peak on the Madeira Island is the Pico Ruivo (1,861m high). Don’t miss the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike!
  • Did you know the largest surviving laurel forest is the Laurisilva Forest of Madeira and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Its trees are over 500 years old and are found in Fanal!
  • Catch dolphins and monk seals in the waters surrounding the Desertas Islands.
  • Don’t miss the viewpoints! At the Cabo Girão lookout point (elevation of 580 m), you will have a breathtaking view of the coast from the glass platform known as the Skywalk. Miradouro do Juncal in Pico do Arieiro is another viewpoint you don’t wanna miss.

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Where to Stay in Madeira

Choosing where to stay in Madeira is quite easy as your location doesn’t have a huge impact on what you are going to see. In fact, you can travel from either end of the island in just over an hour, making it very easy to explore.

This means that no matter what your favourite activities are, you could either choose to spend your entire stay in a single accommodation or change it up every few days.

Understanding Madeira, however, is really important. There is a major difference between the northern and the southern side .

THE NORTHERN SIDE: The northern side of Madeira receives a considerably larger amount of rain and significantly less daylight. This means that this part of the island is usually slightly colder and dominated by more lush vegetation.

THE SOUTHERN SIDE: The southern side of the island is much sunnier and slightly warmer than the northern side. Places like Ponta do Sol rarely receive rain even during the winter months, and you can expect to have a good 1.5 hours more of sunshine every day. Also, don’t forget that you get to see the sunset on the ocean from Funchal to Calheta!

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FUNCHAL – Funchal is the largest city and the capital of Portugal’s Autonomous Region of Madeira. It’s where most hostels are located, it’s convenient to the airport (which is just 20km away) and it’s dotted with bars and restaurants. It’s the best base for travellers seeking parties, connections, fun, and experience the vibrant lifestyle of Madeira.

RIBEIRA BRAVA & CAMARA DE LOBOS – These two areas are also located on the southern coast of Madeira. The coast here has the most stunning cliffs of the whole island, including the one of Cabo Girão Skywalk. Riberia Brava is also the gateway to Calhau da Lapa , a must-visit place in Madeira. Consider sleeping in one of the old caves of Calhau da Lapa !

PONTA DO SOL & CALHETA – This area is dotted with some of the best surfing spots in Madeira. Ponta do Sol , Paul do Mar , Calheta , Jardim do Mar , Madalena do Mar are all stunning places to stay. This side of the island receives a considerably lower amount of precipitations and at least 1.5 hours more sunlight each day. These towns are also quite convenient for those who want to explore the western side of the island, as well as the north-western side. Stay at Canto das Fontes for an amazing glamping experience.

PORTO MONIZ & SAO VICENTE – This part of Madeira is is all about laid-back island vibes. Like in Ponta do Sol and Calheta, here you will find some great waves if you like surfing. Porto Moniz is popular for its natural swimming pools, and the town itself is pretty nice.

SANTANA – Santana is a good base for those who want to explore the Mountain range of Madeira but don’t like the idea of living in a big city like Funchal. Stay in one of the many accommodations in Santana, Sao Jorge, or Faial.

MACHICO – Porto da Cruz isn’t Machico’s main town. However, it is a cozy town of just 2500 people on the northern coast of the island and it’s the best place to surf for beginners in Madeira. Consider staying in Porto da Cruz as a base for your daily trips to the mountain or just to stay away from the hustle of the city. Porto da Cruz is also a good option for solo travellers and backpackers: we loved the atmosphere at Jaca Hostel , a place we would definitely recommend. Also, the town of Machico is quite interesting, on the southern side of the region.

SANTA CRUZ – Santa Cruz is a calm fishing village located near the airport of Madeira, not far from the city of Funchal. The village of Santa Cruz is one of the oldest on the island, characterized by palmeras, beaches, cliffs, and a stunning view of the Deserted Islands.

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Useful Apps & Websites for Madeira

  • HIKING: Check out the WalkMe App for maps and tips for hiking across Madeira. The app is free but we highly recommend paying the 4.99€ for the “explorer” version to grant access to all 60+ walks in Madeira, download the offline maps and more. Maps.me is also another great app to have on your phone. It’s free and you can download the map of the island.
  • WEATHER: Netmadeira.com is the go-to website for checking weather conditions on the island. The homepage features live webcams from different areas of Madeira. The island is famous for having many different bioclimates, so if you’re having back luck in one area, just visit this website and cross your fingers! Sun may shine not far from where you are! Windy is also very reliable when it comes to the weather forecast.
  • BUSSES: Visit Sam Bus Website for detailed information on bus rides around the island of Madeira.
  • ISLAND NEWS & TRAILS: Check out VisitMadeira.pt for updates and info on trail status. Some hiking trails may be closed in specific dates for safety reasons, so make sure to check their status before going.

Is Madeira Expensive to Visit?

This is usually one of the toughest questions to answer as the budget largely depends on one’s lifestyle. However, we tried to list here some of the most common expenses you will encounter on your trip, dividing them by category.

  • Accommodation
  • Transportation
  • Total Budget

ACCOMMODATION

Transportation.

AIRPORT SHUTTLE INFO: A bus ticket from the airport to Funchal only costs €5 EUR ($6 USD).

The local delights put the FUN in Funchal. Tasty, healthy, and seasonal food is what Madeira is all about. It’s also quite affordable! A one-course meal costs €10 EUR ($12 USD), and a multiple course meal including a main dish, side dish, dessert, and water will cost €20 EUR ($23 USD). An espresso costs anything from €0.60 EUR ($0.70 USD) to €1 ($1.15 USD). Tips are not included in the bill.

Foods to try are the renowned Espetada Pau Louro (skewered beef) €14 EUR ($16 USD), Milho fritto (corn and cabbage fried cubes), Polvo (octopus) €10 EUR ($12 USD), Lapas (limpets on a pan) €7 ($9 USD), Bolo do Caco (traditional bread with garlic butter) €3 ($4 USD), and the Prego (steak sandwich) €4 ($5 USD). Expect to pay slightly more in the Funchal area, while prices drop as soon as you go on the northern side and at some local restaurants.

Drinks to try are the Poncha , Madeira Wine, Green Wine and Licor de Ginja da Madeira (Cherry liquor).

Madeira offers a wide range of free and paid activities. The prices below are intended per person.

TOTAL BUDGET

BUDGET BACKPACKERS: If you want to stretch your dollar while still being able to explore Madeira, you should budget for about 30-40€ ($34-$45 USD) a day. This involves travelling in a group (possibly of 4) to split the costs of transportation, housing and more. Expect to rent one of the cheapest Airbnb’s on the island for 4 people ($12 USD/night per person), share a rental car for your day trips ($8 USD/day per person + gasoline), stick to the free activities and eat most of your meals at home. Total cost for 14 days: €420-€550 per person ( $480-$630 USD ).

MID-BUDGET COUPLE : Expect to pay around €60-€70 ($67-$78 USD) a day per person for a bit more comforts. For this budget, you will be sleeping in a mid-budget double room ($20-$30 USD/night per person), split the cost of a rental car ($15 USD/day per person + gasoline) and eat one meal per day at a restaurant ($15-$25 USD per person). Total cost for 14 days: €840-€980 per person ( $950-$1.100 USD ).

SOLO MID-BUDGET TRAVELERS: Madeira isn’t that friendly to solo travellers when it comes to budgeting. This is mainly due to transportation. A car is essential to explore the island and if you don’t have anyone to split the cost with, it can be pricy. Budget for about €70-€80 ($80-$90 USD) a day if you are on your own. Sleep in a hostel ($20-$25 USD/night per person), rent your own car ($30 USD/day + gasoline) and eat one meal per day at a restaurant ($15-$25 USD). Total cost for 14 days: €980-€1.120 per person ( $1.100-$1.270 USD ).

FLASHPACKER: Budget for about a similar amount as the previous 2 categories, plus add a few activities or more expensive accommodations here and there. Your daily average budget will need to be around €100-€120 ($110-$135 USD) if you are travelling solo, a bit less if you split some of the costs with others. Total cost for 14 days: €1.400-€1680 per person ( $1.580-$1.900 USD )

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Is Madeira Safe?

Madeira was voted the European Safest Destination in 2021, also due to its effort to apply measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In fact, the island is very safe to travel to, even if you’re going solo.

Crime is very low in Madeira. Crimes that do take place tend not to target travellers.

Hiking dangers do exist in Madeira, mainly around waterfalls along the Levada trails and on the drops of the Veredas. These are the trails that are nearby water sources like falls and you can expect some areas to be quite wet and slippery.

Driving risks in Madeira are due to its natural mountainous landscape. Many sites to explore on the island are the easiest to get to by car. If you’re driving here for the first time and you aren’t used to mountainous roads, be vigilant and take your time as some of the roads are winding and steep.

Swimming and surfing in Madeira can be wild (both in a fun and risky way). Things to keep in mind when taking a dip: the waves can be quite strong (especially in winter) and be aware of the large rocks below your feet.

What to Eat and Drink?

Have you heard of Madeira wine ? This fortified drink is a must to try. Madeira has a huge tradition when it comes to wines. In fact, wine has been produced here for over 500 years, and ancient traditions are well preserved. On the island, everywhere you look there are terraces, where grapes grow in abundance. The harvesting starts in August all the way to October.

And that’s not all! Don’t forget to taste Poncha , a typical drink with a lemon or orange juice base made with distilled alcohol (Aguardiente) made from sugar cane.

The food will get you going too! Try fish and seafood like lapas (limpets), octopus, grilled trout, or try the espetada – beef cubes (that melt in your mouth) served on a laurel skewer or the Bolo de caco wheat bread! And don’t forget to try the tropical fruits like Anona, Guava, Passion fruit and Tabaibo among many others.

Looking for a place to eat? Check out our favourite restaurants and bars recommended by locals.

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How Long Should You Stay?

While the island may seem small on a map, there is actually a lot to see. It may seem hard to believe, but there are about 200 Levadas, 30 Veredas and countless waterfalls in Madeira. So, how long should you go for? The answer is very subjective.

Plan the length of your stay depending on the activities you are interested in. For example, if you’re a hiking enthusiast, consider you can only do 1 “major” or 2 smaller Levadas/Veredas a day. Most of these trails, in fact, take up to 5 hours to complete, and you could spend a whole month exploring the over 60 recommended trails.

On the other hand, if you’re just coming to relax and visit a few sights, 7 to 10 days would be enough.

Recommended duration: 15 days – 20 days

Best Tips for Backpacking Madeira

  • There are two groups of hiking trails in the Madeira Islands: Levadas and Veredas . The first group are the Levada s trails. These trails are quite clean and near water sources. The second group, the Veredas trails, can be more challenging. These trails are more rugged and take you along the mountains. One thing is for sure – both types of trails will blow your mind!
  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes . The right clothes and being comfortable can make your trek more enjoyable. Also, even though the weather is mild all year round it can get quite cold if you hike up the highest mountains. Snow is rare, but it can fall even in Madeira. Get yourself prepared.
  • Stay on the trail . This tip is for your safety and prevent dammage to local wildlife habitats and preserve the local environment. Bring a cellphone and let someone know where you’re going hiking, even someone at your place of accommodation.
  • Always bring a rain-jacket with you. It’s better to be prepared when the weather turns.
  • Don’t forget about electronics! The standard voltage in Madeira is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. The sockets are categorized as type F , also known as Schuko. Type F (like other European countries) and is also compatible with Types C and E. Consider buying a power adapter for your electronics if the plugs don’t match that of the sockets.

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Useful Covid-19 Travel Information

MADEIRASAFE.COM – When travelling during the pandemic, stay up-to-date with all the travel requirements for visiting the Madeira Islands on Madeirasafe.com . Register on this portal before flying there to speed up the process upon arrival. If you submitted valid documentation before arriving in Madeira (Green Certificate, Vaccine, Test or Recovery), you can request a free Antigen test to return to your country.

VISITMADEIRA.PT For more information about requirements of entry, testing, exceptions, and testing upon departure read more on the region’s official website visitmadeira.pt . They have a handy App, the Madeira Tourism App that will keep you informed the whole way.

MORE! You can take a free rapid antigen COVID-19 test in Funchal. You’ll see several tents advertising tests with medical staff. But if you run out of time, don’t worry, you can take a test at the airport. Just be sure to arrive well before your boarding time in case there is a queue. The rapid antigen will cost €30 EUR ($34 USD) and take 30 minutes to receive results.

Disclaimer: The availability and costs of the rapid antigen test at the Madeira airport in Funchal are based on our trip in January 2022. This may be subject to change. You can check the airport’s website to stay informed on what measures and services they offer for travellers.

You will have a memorable time exploring and chasing adventure in the Madeira Islands. Be sure to share with us your thoughts on backpacking in the Madeira Islands, what’s useful in this guide/tips to add, and tag @backpackersintheworld . The Madeira Islands are calling!

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50 Best Things to do in Madeira – Ultimate Bucket List

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38 Amazing Things to Do in Madeira (In 2024)

Madeira is commonly called the “Hawaii of Europe” and for a good reason — this volcanic island off the coast of Morocco has the stunning beaches, lush forests, and reliable sunshine you’d expect from it’s year-round subtropical climate.

The key difference: it’s approximately a million times more affordable . Dare I say, budget-friendly?

Even though the island is just 741 km 2 (286 mi 2 ), there are so many amazing things to do in Madeira that you can easily spend a week or more. But thanks to how compact and well-connected Madeira is, it’s totally possible to hit the highlights in just a couple of days if that’s all you have.

Read on for the best things to do in Madeira in 2024, completely up-to-date with what’s open now and how to make the most out of your Madeira holiday.

Plus, a few travel tips to prepare for your trip and what you absolutely need to arrange in advance.

What to know before you visit Madeira

Before heading off in the Madeiran sunset, here’s what you need to know to prepare for your trip:

  • Best way to explore the island is definitely by car. Critically, you want to get a SMALL car (we opted for a Fiat 500) because streets are super narrow. We always book our cars through Discover Car's comparison portal to find the best deal on our car hire.
  • If you don’t hire a car, many places are accessible by small group tour. Wherever possible, I’ll also include shuttles and tours you can use to explore Madeira without a car.
  • You can pay by card almost everywhere. But a handful of places were cash only or Portuguese cards only. For that reason, make sure to carry a small amount of cash.
  • If you plan to hike, definitely bring hiking boots. Some of the most beautiful hikes to stunning waterfalls are in the forest and can get muddy. There are lots of options for hiking in Madeira for all levels of fitness.
  • The best time to visit Madeira is May through August. Simply because there is less rain than in Winter. However, Madeira is a year-round destination and has enough microclimates that if it’s raining somewhere, you can drive to sun and warmth in under an hour!
  • The best place to stay in Madeira is in Funchal. Our amazing villa (pictured below) was a 5 minute drive from the main highway, and a 15 minute walk to the city. The location was absolutely perfect as a home base to explore the entire island efficiently.

With the fact that Europe has truly opened to international travel, I highly suspect that people will be flocking to Madeira this Summer. So if you’re looking for accommodation, I’d definitely recommend booking soon before prices inevitably increase again and availability is limited.

If you want to stay in the same villa as us, you can check its availability here . The host, Louise, was incredibly helpful and we would 100% stay here again on our next trip, as it was just perfect.

Things to do in Madeira

This list of top things to do in Madeira is based on my experience on the island, and such there are tons of pictures of each location and activity. If you have any questions, you’re always welcome to contact me and I’ll see how I can help!

Here are the best things to do in Madeira in 2024:

25 Fontes

1. Take stunning waterfall photos at the 25 Fontes hike

Arugably the most popular hike on the island, the 25 Fontes hike is one of the best things to do on Madeira because it features several gorgeous waterfalls — and is mostly flat after the initial descent into the valley along a paved road.

Flat (ish) hike with a big reward? That’s what I like to hear!

The highlight is the 25 Fontes , or “25 Fountains” which feed the levada you walk next to on your way to the source. But for a mere 800-meter detour, you can also stop by the Risco Waterfall along the way (pictured below).

As you hike, you’ll find beautiful wildflowers, a peaceful levada stream running alongside you, and birds for company. The path is extremely well-maintained, with plenty of railings near any drop-offs. The finale is a stunning, delicate waterfall complete with fish swimming in the pool below!

We had about 3 hours of moving time, and 4.5 hours total round trip including stopping for lunch and taking copious photos.

That said, if you have mobility limitations, do be aware there is a decent set of stairs (300 meters of elevation gain in total) about midway through the hike that’ll get your heart pumping. As always, “easy” is relative, but we did see people of all ages on this trail.

We hiked mid-day on a weekend in mid-Summer, and still found the crowds manageable. That said, bear in mind this hike is very popular so you’ll meet plenty of new friends along the way!

Reach it by tour

If you’re not renting a car, you can reach the 25 Fontes and Risco Waterfall hike through this guided tour at a really affordable price. Hiking tours are very common in Madeira, and a great way to both stay safe and learn more about the island. Click below for details and availability:

2. See sunset at Pico do Arieiro

Pico do Arieiro is the third highest peak on Madeira, and a must-see viewpoint when the clouds are low enough to form a layer between you and the world below.

The best part? You can get these incredible views a 60-second walk away from a car park! That makes this an excellent location for people who don’t want to trek. There’s even a stairlift for wheelchair users or people who can’t get up stairs.

Pico do Arieiro is also a really popular places for sunrise, but with one drawback: this area is extremely prone to thick fog (AKA being inside a cloud!) meaning the risk of near-zero visibility is pretty high.

So if you plan for sunset instead of sunrise, you can use the webcams on NetMadeira to plan your trip during a clear time period. That’s how we landed these incredible views on our second attempt:

Packing tip: Stay warm! You’re at the top of a mountain, which is a very different climate than hanging out on the beach. A sweater and light outer layer worked perfectly against the windy conditions. Ladies with long hair, bring a hair tie or risk eating your mane while trying to take a selfie!

3. See the traditional houses at Santana

Madeira was claimed by Portuguese sailors in the early 1400s, and was supposedly uninhabited at the time (though there’s evidence the Vikings may have visited a few centuries earlier).

Some of the early inhabitants built small, triangular houses with thatched roofs, best observed today at the cultural site called Casas típicas de Santana in the Northeast part of Madeira.

At this location, you’ll find several houses including some you can enter, such as the tourism office and a small flower shop. The houses are free to see, and a popular spot to spend 30-45 minutes wandering around.

There are tons of things to do in Madeira in the Santana area, you’ll most likely find yourself with several opportunities to stop by these houses on your Madeira road trip.

If you’re not self-driving, you can reach Santana on this full guided tour of Madeira’s East Coast , which includes stops at Pico do Arieiro (mentioned above), levada walk to the Balcões (mentioned below), and of course these famous A-frame houses. Click below for details on pricing and availability:

4. Look out over the Vereda dos Balcões

Probably the easiest hike we took on Madeira, Vereda dos Balcões is an ultra flat, 1.5 kilometer path from the street to this lookout point.

Right in the middle of Madeira is a big natural park, called Ribeiro Frio (which literally means “Cold Brook” in Portuguese). The mountains are covered in thick forest, and you’ve got a view all the way out to the sea on a clear day.

What’s important to know is tht this area is also very prone to mist and cloud cover! So you’ll want to plan in advance and check visibility on NetMadeira before making the drive through.

5. Hike to the island’s highest point at Pico Ruivo

Pico Ruivo is the highest point on Madeira, at 1,862 meters above sea level. You have two options for reaching the summit: from Pico do Arieiro in an intense hike known as the “Pico to Pico”, which is a 7km trail between the peaks of these two mountains.

Or you can do what we did, which is the easier Achada do Teixeira trail. It features a 300m elevation gain and 2.8km each way. On the path, you’ll spot wildflowers and butterflies, and there are places to fill up your waterbottle, too.

The trail itself is extremely well-maintained, with what is basically a rock pathway all the way up. You don’t have to do any climbing, though there are a fair number of stairs to contend with in the last stretch. At the peak, you can gaze down at your kingdown below!

If you want to hike the full Pico to Pico route, this hiking tour will guide you for the more challenging 8-hour trek. Learn about the mountain’s flora and fauna from a local guide, plus take advantage of pickup and drop off from Funchal. Click below for details and availability:

6. Go on a dolphin or whale-watching tour by boat

The best time for whale watching in Madeira is between April and October, whereas dolphins can be seen year round. This means that no matter when you visit Madeira, you’ve got a great chance to spot some incredible creatures from a boat.

Not only that, but you get to actually see the island you’re on from a totally different angle. We wanted to do one of these tours but didn’t manage it in time, and were then recommended to book at least three days in advance to guarantee a spot.

Here are some of the tours we tried booking, maybe one of them will work for you!

Boat rides are often the highlights of my trips, as they give you a fantastic way to see your surroundings and connect with nature. Here are three options for seeing dolphins and whales with excellent reviews (click the tour name for pricing and availability):

7. Snap an iconic Madeira panorama at Miradouro do Curtado

If there’s any Portuguese word you’ll become intimately familiar with on your trip, it’s got to be Miradouro (or, “Scenic Viewpoint”). These dot the entire Madeiran coastline on all sides, but one of our favorites was this viewpoint which you’ll encounter driving from Funchal to Santana: Miradouro do Curtado .

This one really has it all! Mountains, sea, and some of the most popular purple flowers you’ll find gracing the roadside all across the Eastern coastal roads.

8. Visit one of the world’s top botanical gardens, Monte Palace

Monte Palace is located right in Funchal, in the north of the city. These botanical gardens are sizable (70,000 square meters!). You can spend a lot of time here if you like taking pictures.

Perhaps unexpectedly, a lot of the gardens are inspired by traditional Japanese gardens. Having been to a lot of these in Japan, I can say there are similarities (apart from the palm trees 😉).

Rated in the top 13 most beautiful botanical gardens in the world by Conde Nast traveler, the main gardens after the entrance definitely stack up to some of the gorgeous gardens we’ve visited in our travels. Eventually, you’ll see “the palace” and from there be able to look out over Funchal to the sea.

Beautiful gardens, and definitely recommend for anyone who loves visiting botanical gardens on their travels!

8. Stand over the highest cliff in Europe at Cabo Girão Skywalk

Cabo Girão is the second highest sea cliff in the world , and the highest in Europe. What better place to walk across just centimeters of glass separating you from a 580 meter drop?

Now, I wouldn’t say I’m scared of heights…but they kind of freak me out. Before heading to Madeira, I watched a YouTube video of a guy who wouldn’t walk across the Cabo Girão Skywalk because it freaked him out and honestly — I get it.

Even if heights scare you, the views from this vantage point are great for looking along the coast.

The Cabo Girão Skywalk is free to enter, and has a cafe nearby if you happen to need a drink after your brush with fate.

9. Go for a levada walk at Levada do Caldeirão Verde

Levada do Caldeirão Verde is one of the most rewarding, moderate hikes on Madeira, if somewhat longer at 8.7 kilometers (5.4 miles) each way, for a total of 17.4 kilometers.

What makes it special is the thick jungle you pass through as you follow the levada to several waterfalls en route. You’ll find endless varieties of ferns, pretty flowers, and a safe, well-maintained path with railings next to every drop off.

Inside, two stunning waterfalls await! Here’s a preview of the first, which you meet relatively early into the hike:

The second is a tall, beautiful waterfall that plummets about 100 meters into a circular lagoon below.

The hike is extremely flat with just a small number of stairs and no rock climbing needed, though you do walk quite a bit on uneven stones as opposed to soft ground which can start to hurt in the final stretch, even with good hiking boots.

Still, the most beautiful hike on Madeira in my opinion! If you go on just one Levada hike, this one is sure to give you everything you could want.

Tip for this hike: You’ll pass through several caves with low ceilings and wet floors. My iPhone’s light was not sufficient to go through comfortably, so I’d highly recommend bringing a headlamp with you. This particular headlamp is what we later bought and it’s ultra bright and simple to use.

10. See a waterfall into the ocean at Miradouro do Véu da Noiva

This beautiful viewpoint at Miradouro do Véu da Noiva features a waterfall that leads straight into the ocean. If you look closely, you’ll see there’s an old road that used to lead right through this waterfall:

In 2008 there was a landslide that caused damage to this road, and today it’s closed off for visitors. You can see what remains of the landslide in the pile of rubble at the foot of the waterfall.

This viewpoint is beautiful, and extremely easy to reach. Just walk for a few seconds from the nearby parking lot, and this view is yours! Hopefully you’ll get more sunshine that we did.

11. Visit the black sand beach at Seixal

This is an excellent place to stop after visiting the Miradouro do Véu da Noiva (mentioned above), a nearby waterfall that pours into the ocean right next to Seixal (featured just a little further in this list!).

As a volcanic island, Madeira has a number of beaches with volcanic rocks and stones. But the black sand beach at Seixal has smooth, fine sand you can relax on like any other beach.

Here you can also take surfing lessons, go paddle boarding, or go for a swim in the gentle waves.

12. Hike the Ponta de São Lourenço trail at sunrise

At the eastern most tip of Madeira, you’ll find Ponta de São Lourenço . This rugged, almost desert-like stretch extends into the Atlantic ocean and is commonly referred to as “The Dragon’s Tail” of the island.

In the distance, you can see the the Ilhas Desertas , an island that’s home to giant wolf spiders (google it if you dare). Luckily you’ll see no such critters on this trail, though you will encounter beautiful thistle flowers, bumble bees, and (once they wake up) locusts in the high brush.

Given there is virtually zero shade or coverage on this trail , hiking at sunrise works great to help you stay cool and avoid the crowds (and the stronger winds) which crop up in mid-morning.

The most famous viewpoint is beyond the “recommended trail”, a steep ascent to the very top of the island. As someone who’s not a super experienced hiker, this trail was pretty challenging for me! Still, absolutely worth it for these views.

If you opt against sunrise, you’ll find a restaurant and cafe at the end where you can put up your boots. Only issue is they open at 10:30AM, so it’s on you to bring your own breakfast if you go at sunrise.

13. Look over the Valley of the Nuns at Miradouro Eira do Serrado

As you drive through the mountains of Madeira, you’ll get several viewpoints over this valley. But Miradouro Eira do Serrado is great because it gives you an extremely high vantage point but without a ton of stairs or walking. Just a few minutes of walking from the carpark and…

These views over the valley known as the Valley of the Nuns .

You look out over terraces stacked like a layer cake up the side of the mountain and streets that look fit for a race track, zig zagging across the scene. It’s an impressive view with virtually no work to reach in comparison with many of Madeira’s hiking trails.

Driving in this area can get a little bit dicey, with extremely narrow roads and lots of twists and turns (as you can see in the photos!). This super popular tour spends half a day in the area for an extremely affordable rate and with stellar reviews. Click below for details and availability:

14. Visit the same fishing village as Winston Churchill

A lot of famous people have visited Madeira over the years, but Winston Churchill really put it on the map when he visited Câmara de Lobos . This small fishing village now even bears a hotel in his name.

This town works great as a stop after Cabo Girão , where you can stop at one of several harbor bars for an ice cold beer or Poncha. Around the corner, you’ll also find a popular beach complete with surfers and a beach bar.

Câmara de Lobos is also home to one of the best meals we ate in Madeira (grilled meat skewers called Espatadas ), so keep scrolling for that tip a little later!

15. Drive under a waterfall at Cascata dos Anjos

Cascata dos Anjos (literally, “Angels Waterfall”) pours out over a now defunct section of the old highway, ER101. Referred to endearingly as a “free car cash”, this waterfall will definitely do the job if your car is dusty!

A lot of people also park further way, and simply take photos under the waterfall. The most prepared bring swimsuits. While not the most beautiful waterfall in Madeira, it’s certainly a unique experience and easy to reach on any drive back from Western Madeira to Funchal.

16. Go snorkeling at Garajau Nature Reserve

Garajau Nature Reserve is a large, protected area of Madeira’s coast, designated to prevent the desertification of the seabed. It’s located to the East of Funchal, and is a fantastic place for both scuba diving and snorkeling. You can see tons of kinds of fish and aquatic wildlife here, including Atlantic Manta Rays, and large fish like the Mero and other coastal species.

If you love water activities and want to get a chance to explore Portugal’s first and only Marine Reserve, a tour with an experienced local is the best way to do it. Here are two options from my favorite tour company, GetYourGuide:

17. Enjoy some of Madeira’s best beaches

Most of Madeira’s beaches are rocky, comprising volcanic rock that has smoothed out over the years. This doesn’t stop people from sunbathing, Some of Madeira’s best beaches include:

  • Praia da Calheta – A rare, white sand beach with sand imported from the Western Sahara.
  • Machico – Located on the South coast of Madeira, this beach also has imported sand and is actually pretty close to the airport.
  • Ponta do Sol – This extremely sunny part of Madeira is home to a small, 160-meter beach with excellent swimming conditions.
  • Seixal – This black sand beach is unique for its surrounding jungle view and the fine black sand you walk on. The beach isn’t huge but you can enjoy gentle waves here.

18. Hike to the waterfall at Garganta Funda Viewpoint

Garganta Funda might look small in this photo, but it’s actually one of the tallest waterfalls on Madiera at a height of 140 meters. Walking to this viewpoint takes about 5 minutes each way and extremely easy. From here, you’ll look down into a carved out section of this cliff and find this:

The best time to visit Garganta Funda is in Winter , because the extra rain makes the stream much mightier than what you see here during Summer. Especially if you can visit after a heavy rainfall!

19. Eat Espatadas at Restaurante O Polar

Espatadas are beef skewers, served on a spit that hangs over your table. These are drenched in garlic butter and served with fresh-cut fries. It was heavenly!

We looked high and low for the best place to try them, and O Polar fit the bill. Our total bill was about 25 euros for two people, and we were stuffed to the brim afterwards.

20. Do a wild levada walk to Cascata Agua d’Alto

Not for those who are scared of heights, the levada walk to Cascata Agua d'Alto is no longer maintained but still accessible with a little determination and geo-sleuthing. You’ll walk next to a rushing levada, through the jungle to a waterfall at the end of the path.

How to get there: You will see a “dead end” sign when driving through the closest town, which is across the way from a bus stop. Technically you can drive up to this dead end and find a tiny parking lot, though we opted to park below and walk up. From there, you’ll find some stairs and an overgrown path. Be careful, as there are no railings and some very narrow spots.

Again, there are some short sections with steep drop offs and no railings, so not for kids or or people scared of heights.

21. Eat a delicious steak sandwich

Madeirans love sandwiches, and as luck has it, it’s one of the most affordable and filling items on a lot of menus. Made here with Bolo do Caco bread, this steak sandwich cost just 4.30€ and took the place of dinner! You can find these at a lot of restaurants in Madeira, but this particular one was at Ribeiro Frio Restaurant near the entrance to the walk to the Vereda dos Balcões.

22. Take the cable car over Cabo Girão

Called teleférico in Portuguese, cable cars are abundant on Madeira. You can take them to descend from the top of Funchal, and down from many cliffs, but perhaps the steepest on the island is the one from its highest sea cliff to the coast: the cable car at Cabo Girão.

It costs just a couple of euros for a round-trip ticket, and takes you to the bottom of the cliff quickly. At the bottom you’ll find black rock beaches, though when we were there, they were clearly cleaning up after a rockslide.

23. Visit Fanal Pond in mist

Fanal is one of the few places in Madeira where you’re hoping for that famous mist to set in, so you can capture some incredibly unique photos. This positively disorienting place is fun to wander about, but make sure you’ve got some GPS to help you find your car afterwards!

If you keep walking around, you’ll find cows chilling in a field (and lots of cow pies to dodge). Come here for some great photos to put on your alternative band’s next album cover 😉

If you happen to show up on a clear day, there’s a also a hike you can take, PR13 Vereda do Fanal.

24. Tour the Miradouros on the Western Coast of Madeira

West Madeira is a bit off the tourist track, but this rugged coastline and smaller villages definitely give you a different perspective on the island than the East. As you drive along the coast, you’ll find a number of viewpoints to stop at, snap some photos, and learn about the local flora and fauna:

  • Viewpoint Fio – First accessible viewpoint when coming from the south, depending on your accommodation. Also has a restaurant at the viewpoint.
  • Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse – When we visited in June 2021, the viewpoint to see the lighthouse from afar was closed. But you can go right up to the lighthouse and walk down a small path in front for photos.
  • Garganta Funda Viewpoint – One of the highest waterfalls in Madeira, and just a 5-minute walk in each direction.
  • Boa Morte Viewpoint – Location of both a viewpoint and a church of the same name, walk past some chilled out cows to this viewpoint of the East Madeira costline.

25. Swim in the natural pools at Porto Moniz

Unfortunately we were here on a cloudy day, but don’t underestimate how beautiful these pools are. Fed by the ocean, you can enter these natural pools for just 1.50€. Even if you just want to access the cafe, the entry fee is totally worth it.

26. Photograph the rock formations at Mirador Illeus da Ribeira da Janela

I’ll have to write a separate photographers guide to the island of Madeira, but here’s a spot you’ll often see in Madeira photos in case you’re wondering where it is!

These rock formations are located on the north coast of Madeira, and make for a great spot for a long exposure photo. You can also take some stairs up to a small cave, giving you the best vantage point for pictures of this rock formation.

27. Visit the tomb of the last Austro-Hungarian Emperor

This church located just up the street from Monte Palace is called Igreja Paroquial de Nossa Senhora do Monte or the Church of Our Lady of Monte. Apart from the beautiful, golden interior, you’ll also see the tomb of Karl I, the last Emperor of Austria.

He was exiled to the island of Madeira after his second failed attempt to reclaim the throne of Hungary, and was taken to Funchal in 1921 where his wife and children later joined him. Sadly, he died of a cold that turned into severe pneumonia and never left the island.

28. Try Scabbardfish (Espada), a local Madeiran delicacy

Scabbardfish, called Espada in Portuguese, is a local delicacy and deep-water predator fish that hangs out at a depth of 180-1,700 meters. Local fishermen use special equipment to catch these dish, which come up bearing pretty pointy teeth! Most commonly, Espada fish is served alongside banana but you can also find it alongside chips at pubs on the island.

29. Explore the old town of Funchal

Honestly, of all the places on the island, we probably spent least of our time in Funchal proper and instead explored outside the city. But at least one afternoon or evening should be dedicated to walking through the old streets! Just be aware that if you decide to dine in this area, you’ll be paying a premium compared to what a dinner outside the old town would cost.

30. Visit the CR7 Museum to Cristiano Ronaldo

Easily the most famous, modern Madeiran is Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary footballer and Funchal-native. Not only have the Madeirans renamed their airport after him, but they also created a dedicated museum to him called the CR7 Museum .

While we didn’t go inside, if you’re a soccer fanatic this museum might be for you. You’ll find it near the Port of Funchal.

31. Explore the now defunct Royal Path, Caminho Real 23

Back in the 19th century, the King of Portugal commissioned Madeira’s very own Ring Road: a path that was designed to encircle and connect the entire island. It’s about 170 kilometers long and nowadays, many of the passages have decayed beyond use.

This path is part of what used to snake by Miradouro do Véu da Noiva, a waterfall on the North part of the island.

Today, some people still hike on this path though its original use pre-dates modern cars.

32. Visit one of the only white sand beaches at Praia da Calheta

Calheta is a sunny town to the west of Funchal, and one of the possible places to stay in Madeira if you’re exploring the Western part of the island.

Oen of its main attractions is a white sand beach, Praia da Calheta . Unlike most of the black sand beaches in Madeira, Praia da Calheta has white sand which was imported from the Western Sahara.

If you’ve ever been to Tenerife, you might known that their most famous beach, Las Teresitas also imported its sand from the Sahara.

33. Go for fresh fish and chips at O Ideal

Seafood lovers rejoice, because Madeira is an excellent place to eat fresh seafood. Though my boyfriend isn’t a big seafood fan so I had to exercise some restraint, one of the best places we had fresh fish and chips was at a tiny bar in Paul do Mar called O Ideal .

An excellent place to enjoy the sunset, eat fish for a great price, and down your own personal pitcher of sangria. Our entire meal was something like 20€ including salad and a starter of Bolo do Caco.

We even tried to go back the second day, but it was closed on Tuesdays!

34. Stay in a guesthouse outside Funchal

Although we could’ve stayed in Funchal for our entire trip, we also opted to spend three nights in a more rural part of the island in a town called Faja Da Ovelha . Getting to our guest house was a proper trek of approximately 300 stairs, but every day we were rewarded with panoramic views like this:

Depending on the type of trip you’re looking for, a more remote accommodation option could work out. Madeira is small enough to stay just in Funchal, but for those who like variety (and stairs), rewards await!

34. See the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse and lookout point

While you’re on the west side of the island, stop by the lighthouse at Ponta do Pargo. This is one of the most prominent lighthouses on the island, and its red and white color makes for a great photo.

When you arrive, you’ll see a couple of stars from the car park leading to a dirt area in front of the lighthouse. You can walk here to snap some photos of the lighthouse, or of the coast itself.

35. Take a toboggan ride from Monte

One of the top things on any list of things to do in Madeira is to take a tobbogan ride from near Monte Palace down the street. While we didn’t do this ourselves, we did drive behind one of these rides to observe what it was like.

36. Eat at a Michelin Star restaurant in Funchal

Despite being a small island, Madeira is home to two, Michelin-star restaurants. If you want, you can eat very cheaply in Madeira and turn it into a budget trip. But if you’re looking for luxury, these are the two restaurants that’ve been awarded a Michelin star:

  • William (One Michelin star) – This restaurant focuses on traditional Madieran and Portuguese food, and the menus will set you back between 120-160€ per person.
  • Il Gallo d'Oro (Two Michelin stars) – This restaurant was the first to receive a Michelin star in Madeira and features a lot of local incredients. Prices range from 130-245€ per person.

We didn’t plan in advance to visit one of these, but absolutely would on our return trip!

37. Eat Bolo do Caco with virtually every meal

Bolo do Caco is essentially garlic bread, which is served or offered as an appetizer at nearly every restaurant in Madeira.

Traditionally, Bolo do Caco is cooked on a caco , which is a flat basalt slab. The inside is then smothered with garlic butter and served warm.

Typically it comes sliced in to eight pieces, perfect for sharing before you dig in to the main course.

You can also often get sandwiches served in this bread, as it’s a really popular replacement for typical bread on the island. Simply delicious, after our first bowl we began ordering it as a precursor to just about every meal.

38. Drink a flight of Poncha at your local bar

Another must-have food, but this time as a drink: Poncha . Poncha is a traditional, very sweet alcoholic drink typically served in a small glass and made from sugar cane (specifically, an alcohol derived from sugar cane called aguardente de cana ). It’s delicious. And potent.

There are many kinds of poncha, with the most popular being passionfruit poncha (maracuja), poncha pescador (fisherman’s poncha), even ponchas with kiwi, strawberry, honey and lemon.

Some places even offer poncha “flights”, so you can try and taste a variety of ponchas in one go.

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Author

About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

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MADEIRA’S no 1 OFFICIAL GUIDE since 1997

  • Madeira-Web

Madeira Island's complete tourism destination guide!

Exciting Madeira… a holiday destination with so much to offer!

Visit Webcamtaxi for live events , Madeira Airport Spotting and news from around the world .

Madeira Island is one of Europe's most beautiful travel locations with many thousands of tourists returning year after year. Why?

It offers not only an all year round summer climate, as well as wonderful fauna and flora, but it is also virtually crime-free and one of the safest holiday destinations in the world!

Our award winning up-to-date Madeira guide has hundreds of pages of essential information on where to go, when to go, what to do, how to get there and where to stay, including maps , detailed reports about the weather, geography and history , plus the lowdown on nightlife , people, places and culture… This is definitely the first 'SITE SEEING' you should do!

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

You'll find all the information you need to plan and prepare for your holiday, plus a wealth of related material.

THINGS TO DO

In addition to the stunning views, Funchal’s famous cuisine and relaxing promenades, for the more adventurous and energetic the opportunities are endless with so much to choose from: levada walking, mountain walks, hiking, sailing, dolphin and whale watching, scuba diving, big game fishing, canyoning, surfing and paragliding.

Book a table for the Ritz Madeira's traditional English afternoon tea between 14:00 and 16:00 every day of the week.

Discover the new look of Guindaste Viewpoint in Faial, Santana.

Shopping in Madeira

Eating out in madeira, madeira levada walking and hiking, whale & dolphin spotting safaris, scuba diving, madeira leisure activities, gardens of madeira island, beaches and pools of madeira.

This web-site is updated daily with new articles and photos from around the island. One of our most popular pages is the ' Live Web Camera ', which shows current views over the harbour and surrounding areas of the city and our ' People Cam ' where you can see family and friends on the Internet. Take a look at our videos for that extra-special experience, browse through our extensive dynamic image libraries for stunning photos , or visit our Madeira Island News page for the most recent TOP stories on tourism and activities around the island.

PLACES TO SEE

Whatever your taste, you'll find something that interests you! From wonderful parks and gardens with exotic flowers, seascapes with blue ocean and towering cliffs to rustic villages in quiet valleys to seriously good views and sheer mountains whose lofty peaks are higher than Scotland's — we show you all the places to go!

Funchal – Europe’s most picturesque and cleanest capital

Calheta municipality, municipality of porto moniz, câmara de lobos municipality, machico municipality.

Get away from the cold grey skies! Leave winter behind and enjoy a fabulous short break in the stunning all year round summer destination of Madeira.

WEATHER & CLIMATE

Check out the current weather in Madeira, the forecast, satellite images and annual averages for this year-round destination.

WHERE TO STAY

If you are looking for a holiday accommodation in Madeira, we show you our top recommended Hotels , Apartments, Resorts, Villas and Hostels, which you can book online. Plus, a car hire will help you get around. Book airport transfers and island tours effortlessly with Madeira-in.com . Enjoy a seamless travel experience with their convenient and reliable services. Explore Madeira with peace of mind and comfort.

LIVE WEBCAMS

Discover our great selection of madeira-web live HD Webcams — Funchal Marina , Funchal city (São Roque), The Ritz and the newly added webcams in Câmara de Lobos , Machico , Doca do Cavacas , Praia Formosa Beach , Sunseterrace Bar Centromar , Caniçal , Porto da Cruz , Santana , Madalena do Mar , Paul do Mar , Porto Moniz , Calheta , Ponta Delgada and the Porto Moniz Natural Pools . We also have live cameras in mainland Portugal , namely in Lisbon and Porto . And if you want to travel the world, Webcamtaxi offers you live cams all around the globe.

Our NEW additional WebCams are located along the oceanfront and provide views of the fantastic Fortim/Jardim do Lido , Lido Swimming Complex , Ponta Gorda Beach , Barreirinha Beach Complex ,  CR7 Museum in Funchal, and Praia dos Reis Magos in Caniço de Baixo.

Funchal Marina LiveCam 1

The people cam, av. do mar livecam, ritz livecam, funchal city livecam, funchal marina livecam 2.

Enjoy your visit to our website and find out for yourself why this small island in the Atlantic Ocean really is where Europe blends with the Tropics! We hope you choose this paradise isle as one of your future holiday destinations.

Madeira Web's design team also publishes a ' daily digicam image ' with stunning photos from around the island and the capital, Funchal.

EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS

From the exciting Carnival , the beautiful Flower Festival and the stunning colourful light effects of the Atlantic Festival to the Christmas and New Year’s festivities, as well as many other parades, festivals, cultural and sports events — there is always something going on!

Images & Videos

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Check out our Images and Videos for a true taste of Madeira.

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Journey of Exploration

MADEIRA TRAVEL GUIDE

Madeira Travel Guide

Madeira is one of the most beautiful islands I have ever visited, with stunning scenery and a beautiful coastline. An island paradise for walkers, photographers and nature lovers.

This travel guide will tell and also show you with photos everything you need to know about planning your trip to Madeira, best places to visit and things to do and also provide detailed maps and itinerary .

INTRODUCTION TO MADEIRA

Why shall you visit Madeira?

Madeira is one of the  most beautiful and greenest islands  with stunning  mountainous and coastal scenery. It is located In the Atlantic Ocean, west of Africa & north of the Canary Islands, and is part of an autonomous region of Portugal, together with the island of Porto Santo.

Madeira is often called the island of eternal Spring or “Garden of the Atlantic” and it has a sub-tropical & mild climate throughout the year making it an ideal destination all year around .

North Coast, Madeira

It’s a great place for a  holiday in the sun and sea , although with mainly pebble beaches, and also for people looking for something more adventurous or cultural, with  hiking opportunities in the mountains and forests, amazing views and the beautiful city of Funchal.

BEST TIME TO VISIT MADEIRA

Because of its mild climate , the best time to visit Madeira is all year round with temperatures staying around 18-20°C even in winter. Also because of its mountainous topography and ocean currents, Madeira has diverse microclimates and it can get cloudy and rainy any time of the year depending on which part of the island you are.

For a beach holiday , the best time to visit Madeira is the summer months of June to September with average temperatures of 25°C, a lot more sunshine and possible to swim in the sea.

For me, the best time to visit Madeira will be Spring (from March to May) with ideal temperatures for hiking , fewer crowds and lower prices.

Lush valley in Madeira

HOW LONG TO STAY IN MADEIRA

Madeira is quite a big island , (801sqkm) so I would recommend staying on the island for at least a full week if you would like to explore it, but 10 days would be even better if you want to visit most of the sights in a more relaxed pace and also combine a day trip to Porto Santo.

Because of the mountainous interior, travelling from one side of the island to another can be time-consuming, especially if you want to stop at every viewpoint along the route to enjoy the views.

Scenic routes of Madeira

WHERE TO STAY IN MADEIRA

For me, the best place to stay in Madeira is the near capital Funchal with a large choice of accommodation, restaurants and all tourist amenities. It is also quite centrally located for exploring the island.

The most popular place to stay in Madeira is the capital Funchal, either in the centre , around the Lido area (Hotel Zone) or close to the Praia Formosa . It is worth considering having a hotel with a pool as the beaches in Madeira are not the best.

I would recommend staying in the centre of Funchal so you can explore the city on foot, but at a hotel that also offers parking . The Lido Area and Praia Formosa are a bit further away from the centre of town (40min on foot).

Hotel Zone, Madeira

Some other places to stay are Canico with a few luxurious hotels, and for the best sandy beaches is either Machico or Calheta .

Generally for the best sunshine, the best place to stay is in the south of the island , while the north coast and mainland Madeira can be considerably cloudier and gets more rain.

Best hotels in Madeira

  • Hotel Catedral : Perfect location in the centre of Funchal with free parking
  • Hotel Porto Santa Maria : 4* hotel located on the Funchal seafront offering rooms with sea views and a swimming pool.
  • The Vine Hotel :  Luxurious hotel in Funchal centre offering a fusion restaurant with views and a rooftop infinity pool plus free private parking.
  • Pestana Casino Park Hotel : Luxurious hotel offering rooms with sea views, infinity pool and a restaurant with great views, Parking at an extra fee. 15min to Funchal centre.
  • Pestana Ocean Bay Resort : Located next to Praia Formosa offering rooms with balconies, sea views and an outdoor pool.
  • Allegro Madeira : Located in Lido, just a 5-minute walk from the oceanfront promenade in Funchal, the hotel offers great views from the rooms and rooftop bar.

Click here to check and compare prices on accommodation for the whole island.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Entry requirements/visa.

No visas required for visits for up to 90 days for most nationalities from Europe, America and Australia.

Madeiran Flag

Portuguese , with a slightly different accent than the mainland, but most people in tourist areas speak basic English and some people speak french or german.

Opening hours

Shops : 9am –7pm Monday to Friday (some close for lunch between 1pm-3pm), 9am –1pm on Sat & Sun closed.

Banks : 8.30am–3pm Monday to Friday

Restaurants : 11am-3pm & 6pm-11pm but some stay open all day.

The climate in Madeira is subtropical, with mild temperatures throughout the year. It can be more cloudy, windy and rainy on the north coast and interior of the island

Summer (June to Sept) : Dry and sunny. Average temperatures between 18 to 26 degrees.

Autumn (mid-September to December) : It starts to get cloudier and rainier as the days progress. Average temperatures between 17 to 24 degrees.

Winter (January to March) : It can get cooler at night and cloudier but rarely gets cold. Average temperatures between 14 to 20 degrees.

Spring (April to May) : It starts getting sunnier with average temperatures between 15 to 22 degrees.

You can check historical weather data for Madeira  here . You can also check the live webcams in various places around the island here .

Madeira is a safe destination, so you shouldn’t encounter any problems when there. But, it is always advisable to be alert for pickpockets in busy locations.

Travel Insurance

Obtaining travel insurance before departure is always advised, even if a place like Madeira shouldn’t present any safety risks. It’s best to be completely insured in case of an accident, health emergency or delayed flights..

SafetyWing is a good choice for travellers. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

The currency is the euro. It’s always recommended to have some cash and carry some coins with you as some places won’t accept cards. The best place to exchange some money is through an  ATM  that can be found in Funchal.

Madeira isn’t an expensive island, but prices are higher during July and August, especially for accommodation. An average twin room will cost 50 to 100 euros per night and a meal at a restaurant around 40 euros for 2 people.

Electricity

The power plugs and sockets are of  type F  (with two round pins). The voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Packing List

If you visit Madeira in the summertime you will need to pack mainly summer clothes (T-shirts, shorts, a hat, sunglasses, the essential sunscreen and a swimming suit) and spring clothes if you visit in the winter months. I will recommend having walking shoes for hiking, a light summer jacket and a warmer jacket if visiting in winter.

For more information on travel gear and what to pack click here .

HOW TO GET TO MADEIRA

Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport  is connected to Lisbon and Porto (2h flight) all year round and also with the island of Port Santo (15min flight). During summer, the airport receives charter flights from many European countries.

For the best website to book your flights, check the link below. Always check prices in advance for the best deals.

Madeira Airport

Getting from/to the airport

The airport is located about 20km away from Funchal (20m drive). Upon your arrival, you can rent a car (highly recommended) in one of the rental offices at the airport. The airport is the best place to book if you haven’t done it before you arrive.

There is also a taxi rank at arrivals, on the Ground Floor (0). The journey to Funchal is about  20min and costs  €30  euros.

There is a shuttle service, the Aerobus , which departs from the Arrivals area towards the Formosa beach, with stops at Funchal centre and near several hotels. The price for one way is € 5.

There are also several bus services to various locations on the island

There are currently no ferries running from mainland Europe. There used to be a ferry (Naviera ARMAS) from Portimao to the Canaries and Madeira during the high season but it’s unknown if this route is going to be operational again.

However, there is the “ Lobo Marinho ” ferry that transports passengers and vehicles daily between Madeira and Porto Santo, on a trip that lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Madeira is also part of the itinerary of many cruise ships from all over the world.

HOW TO GET AROUND

I would definitely recommend  hiring a car  if you would like to  explore the island .

I always try and rent a car whenever I travel as it just gives you the freedom to plan your trip as you like it and stop wherever you like. Madeira offers too many amazing viewpoints that are only accessible by car.

View of Ponta Delgada, Madeira

Car rental for a day  is usually  60 euros  in high season. Better to book in advance before your travel for the best deals. For the best prices check the  car rental at the  airport . Check the link below to book and compare car rental prices.

By Scooter/Motorbike

A cheaper alternative to the car is renting a  scooter or motorbike  if you are comfortable with it, but you need to be more cautious on the road.

There are  taxi stands  in most towns but taxis can be a bit expensive if you plan to go further distances.

Taxis are yellow with a blue stripe and operate with a taximeter in Funchal but with set prices depending on the destination outside Funchal.

Bolt & Uber (taxi apps) operate in Madeira providing lower prices than traditional taxis.

The association  AITRAM  provides taxi services to various tourist routes in Madeira by buying a taxi voucher online.

  By Bus

There are 4 companies with their own website for checking public transport in Madeira: Horários do Funchal , SAM , EACL & Rodoeste .

Horários do Funchal serve Funchal city and its suburbs up to Monte and Camara de Lobos.

SAM  and  EACL  bus services serve the east of Madeira (Caniço, Santa Cruz, Madeira Airport, Machico, and Porto da Cruz).

Rodoeste , serves the west side of Madeira (Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira brava, Ponta do Sol, Madalena do Mar, Calheta, Porto Moniz and São Vicente).

Driving on the north coast of Madeira

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK

Best places to go for a meal are  Funchal city centre and the Lido Area where most hotels are located. The food in Madeira

Best restaurants in Madeira

  • The Ritz Madeira          
  • Taberna Madeira          
  • Doca do Cavacas          
  • Restaurante Gavião Novo: Authentic dining in the heart of the Old Town for sampling the local cuisine 
  • Il Gallo D’Oro : Michellin star gourmet restaurant
  • Regional Flavours       
  • Restaurante Vila do Peixe: Great seafood restaurant with a view.
  • Casa Madeirense Restaurant
  • Dona Amelia : A long-established restaurant
  • Galáxia Skyfood | Skybar

You can check the location of these restaurants on this  map .

Local Specialities

  • Espetada : Barbecued beef skewers 
  • Bolo de Mel : A traditional cake
  • Bolo do Caco : Flatbread with garlic
  • Lapas : Grilled limpets with garlic butter
  • Bacalhau : Salted Cod
  • Espada : Scabbard fish
  • Picado : Fried pieces of beef with garlic and peppers
  • Prego : Grilled steak sandwich
  • Chestnut sweets from Curral Das Freiras
  • Local fruits : passion fruit varieties, banana, delicious fruit (monstera deliciosa), anona (custard apple), guava, loquat, prickly pear & pitanga
  • Madeira wine : a fortified wine for drinking and cooking. There are four major types of Madeira wine: Malvasia, Bual (or Boal), Verdelho, and Sercial, the latter two being drier.
  • Poncha : a traditional alcoholic drink made of sugar cane rum, honey and lemon juice.

Fruits of Madeira

MADEIRA ATTRACTIONS best things to see and do

Funchal is the capital of Madeira and the main hub. It is a beautiful city , built amphitheatrically on the surrounding green hills and Funchal’s suburbs spread all the way up to Monte . It is the best place to stay as it offers all the tourist amenities and has lots of attractions and things to do. It has a nice old town with atmospheric narrow street s and mosaic pavements , historical buildings , public parks and a nice marina.

Funchal Cable Car

Best attractions and things to do in Funchal:

  • Funchal Old Town (Zona Velha) : The historic centre of Funchal is known for its narrow streets, colourful houses, and wide selection of restaurants and bars. It’s a great place to wander and soak up the local atmosphere.
  • Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ Market) : This bustling market is a fantastic place to sample local fruits, vegetables, flowers, and traditional Madeiran products. It’s also a great spot to buy souvenirs.
  • Funchal Cathedral (Sé Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Assunção) : The cathedral is an impressive example of Portuguese Gothic architecture. Its interior is equally stunning, with beautiful wooden ceilings.
  • Visit Monte with its beautiful gardens: Jardim Botanico & Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
  • Madeira Cable Car : Take a cable car ride from the Old Town to the picturesque village of Monte. The views of Funchal and the surrounding landscapes are breathtaking.
  • Palheiro Gardens : These magnificent gardens are set on a hill overlooking Funchal. You can explore the beautiful gardens and enjoy the views. The adjacent Palheiro Golf Course is also a great place for golf enthusiasts.
  • CR7 Museum : For football fans, the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum celebrates the life and career of the famous Portuguese footballer. It’s located in Funchal’s port area.
  • Quinta das Cruzes Museum : This museum is located in a beautiful old manor house and contains an impressive collection of art, furniture, and artifacts from Madeira’s history.
  • Santa Catarina Park : This peaceful park offers a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It features lush greenery, walking paths, and beautiful sea views.
  • Madeira Wine Cellars : Madeira is famous for its wine. You can visit one of the wine cellars in Funchal to learn about the winemaking process and sample different types of Madeira wine.
  • Quinta da Boa Vista : Another historical garden, this one features a range of exotic plants, fountains, and statues, making it a great place to stroll and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  • Funchal Marina : The marina is a lively area with restaurants, shops, and a great place for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

View of Funchal, Madeira

Monte village is located on the hill above Funchal and used to be a healthy retreat from the busy capital in the 18th century. Now it still has this cool, clean country air. The best way to reach Monte is by cable car from Funchal. It is a beautiful ride providing great views of the city and the surrounding mountains and coastline. The best way to return is by ridding a toboggan back to Funchal.

Best attractions and things to do in Monte:

  • Monte Cable Car : The cable car is a popular way to reach Monte from Funchal. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and the coastline as you ascend the hill.
  • Nossa Senhora do Monte Church : This charming church is dedicated to Our Lady of the Mount.
  • Monte Palace Tropical Garden : This beautiful botanical garden features a wide range of exotic plants, koi ponds, and panoramic views of Funchal. You can also explore the Madeira Story Centre nearby.
  • Madeira Botanical Garden : This botanical garden showcases an extensive collection of Madeiran and exotic plants. The garden is set on a hillside and offers lovely views of the city.
  • Monte Toboggan Rides : A fun and unique experience in Monte is taking a traditional wicker toboggan ride down the hill. Riders are dressed in white and straw hats, and two men guide the sledges on the steep streets.

3. Curral Das Freiras (Nun’s Valley)

This hidden valley with a little village is a stunning spot surrounded by dramatic cliffs and chestnut woods. It was used by the nuns of the Santa Clara Convent as a refuge. The highlight of any visit is the spectacular view of the valley from the miradouro of Eira do Serrado. You can walk also walk down to the village from there along the cobbled footpath. At the village, you can try some of the traditional chestnut specialities (Chesnut cake and liqueur).

Curral Das Freiras (Valley of the Nuns)

4. Pico do Aireiro   

This is one of the best spots to enjoy the views over the mountain peaks of Madeira. It’s the third highest peak on the island but is easily accessible by car. It is usually wrapped in clouds and can be windy and cold even in the summer months. There is a cafe close to the car park and from there you can reach the summit (marked by a concrete post) with a short walk.

5. Ponta de São Lourenço

This easternmost peninsula is a scenic place for a walk and offers great views of the rocky coastline.

6. North Coast of Madeira

Driving this impressive coastal road and admiring the views of the rocky coastline and the various tunnels is one of the best things to do in Madeira. There are so many great miradouros along the way that you can stop to enjoy the views.

Viewpoint at the north coast of Madeira

7. Ribeiro Frio & Levada dos Balcões

This is a scenic place next to a valley and a river with a trout farm. It is also the start of a short walk – Levada dos Balcoes. This is a beautiful levada walk through the forest leading to a platform offering magnificent views of the valley and green hills.

8. Madeira Botanical Garden (Jardim Botanico)

Jardim Botanico (Price: €‎6) is a beautiful botanical garden located above Funchal and easily accessible by cable car from Monte (price: €9,25 one way). It’s a great place to experience the unique plants of Madeira, but it also provides great views of the whole of Funchal and the surrounding mountains. The best view of the city is from ‘Lover’s Cave’. There is a great selection of cacti, coastal plants, endemic trees, a parrot park and a Natural History Museum.

Madeira Botanical Garden

9. Pico Ruivo

This is Madeira’s highest peak and it can be reached by car and then by an easy hike via a well-paved path to the summit (1862m). It provides great views over Madeira’s peaks, volcanic landscape and forested hills.

10. Cabo Girao

Madeira’s highest sea cliff above the sea includes a glass-floored viewing platform offering great views of the surrounding cliffs, coastline and the city of Funchal.

Cabo Girao Viewpoint, Madeira

11. Rabacal & Risco Waterfall

Rabacal marks the start of two popular signposted levada walks. The first is 30min walk to the impressive Risco Waterfall and the second is a 1.5h walk to the 25 Fontes (a pool with many waterfalls).

12. Dolphin & Whale Watching

There are various catamaran tours from Funchal marina that take you by the Madeira coastline in search of dolphins and whales . Tours usually last for 3 hours and sightings of dolphins are generally guaranteed . Pilot whales can often be spotted.

13. Sao Vicente Caves

These volcanic caves can be visited by a guided tour. They are located near Sao Vicente in the north of the island. There is also a short film that explains the volcanic origins of Madeira.

BEST TOWNS & VILLAGES OF MADEIRA

  • Câmara De Lobos
  • Ponta Do Sol
  • Porto Moniz
  • Ribeira Brava
  • Sao Vicente
  • Curral Das Freiras
  • Paul Do Mar
  • Jardim Do Mar

Nossa Senhora do Monte Church, Madeira

BEST BEACHES OF MADEIRA

Madeira is not known for its sandy beaches. Instead, it offers natural swimming pools, pebble beaches, and rocky shorelines.

For the best chance of sunshine, it’s better to stay on the south coast.

Here are some of the best places for beach and sea swimming in Madeira:

View of the twin beaches at Praia de Calheta, Madeira

Below is a list of the  12 best beaches  on the island.

  • Praia de Calheta
  • Praia do Porto do Seixal
  • Praia Formosa
  • Praia de Machico
  • Beach Santa Cruz
  • Praia da Ponta do Sol
  • Prainha do Caniçal
  • Garajau Beach
  • Praia do Almirante Reis
  • Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools
  • Praia Da Ribeira Brava
  • Piscina do Porto da Cruz
  • Praia de Vigário
  • Praia da Fajã dos Padres

MADEIRA TOURIST MAP

You can click on the map below for the location of the best sights, restaurants & hotels, as well as the best villages and beaches to visit in Madeira.

Madeira Tourist Map

MADEIRA PHOTOGRAPHY

You can check the best photographs and slideshows from the island of Madeira here .

Here is a list of the  best viewpoint  locations on the island where you can enjoy  great views .

  • Miradouro do Cabo Girão
  • Miradouro Eira do Serrado 
  • Miradouro do Bom Jesus
  • Miradouro da Beira da Quinta
  • Miradouro dos Balcões            
  • Farol da Ponta do Pargo          
  • Cristo Rei    
  • Miradouro Ponta Delgada       
  • Viewpoint Pico do Areeiro       
  • Ponta do Rosto            
  • Fortress of Faial : This is an old fort that provides great views of the village of Faial and the surrounding coastline.
  • Miradouro da Santinha            
  • Miradouro do Paúl do Mar
  • Miradouro da Portela
  • Miradouro da Bica da Cana
  • Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos
  • Miradouro da Torre

You can check these  viewpoints locations  and the  best photo spots  on the island in the above map .

Miradouro da Beira da Quinta, Madeira

MADEIRA ACTIVITIES

  • Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco (PR8) – 7km/2 to 3h return – beautiful coastal walk
  • Vereda dos Balcoes (PR11) – 2.5km/1h return – the easiest levada walk with a beautiful viewpoint
  • Levada das 25 Fontes & Risco Waterfall from Rabacal (PR6) – 11km/3 to 4h – famous levada walk
  • Pico Ruivo  from  Pico do Arieiro  or Achada do Teixeira (PR1)
  • Surfing : Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar are the most popular surfing places.
  • Golf : Two scenic golf courses are located to the east of the island (Santo da Sera & Palheiro Ferreira)
  • Bird Watching : Madeira has a variety of unique birds that can be enjoyed by bird watchers.
  • Whale and dolphin watching .  Various companies offer daily boat tours starting at €30-40, bookable online or from touts at the marina.
  • Deep sea fishing : Fishing trips can be booked at Funchal marina. Any caught fish has to be returned back to the sea.
  • Paraglading
  • Carnival: Colorful parades in fancy dress and carnival costumes in February or March before Shrove Tuesday
  • Flower festival : Floats in competition
  • New Year’s Fireworks : It’s the world’s largest firework display and a great spectacle in Funchal.
  • Theme Park Madeira : Kid-oriented park with lakes and pavilions showcasing Madeira’s cultural traditions and heritage.
  • Aquaparque : A water park with slides, rapids and pools close to the airport.

Risco waterfall, Madeira

MADEIRA EXCURSIONS & TOURS

Ferry trip to porto santo.

If you have plenty of time in Madeira, you can take the ferry from Funchal to Porto Santo (2h & 15min journey) and explore this pretty island. There is the “ Lobo Marinho ” ferry that transports passengers and vehicles daily between the islands.

It can be done on a day trip, but it will be worth staying more than a day to enjoy this small island with the most beautiful sandy beach in the Archipelago.

Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour

Some of the best priced tours on offer are:

  • Seaborn catamaran (€30 per adult).
  • Magic Dolphin Catamaran (€25 per adult).

Madeira Island Tour

This is a good way of seeing the island if you don’t have your own transport. The best tour on offer is:

  • Around The Island – Two Days Tour From 9am to 5pm :   This is a small group tour from Funchal over two full days to see top places around the island (€60 per adult).

More information about excursions & tours in Madeira can be found here .

MADEIRA SUGGESTED ITINERARY

It is worth staying on the island for at least 7 to 10 days if you want to explore it. The following itinerary includes things to do for 7 days on the island, but if you have more time to spend, you can change this itinerary to allow a more relaxed pace. I have taken Funchal as a base & overnight stay for the duration of the holiday; this itinerary might work slightly differently if you stay in other parts of the island.

  • Whale & dolphin tour
  • Funchal Town Centre & Marina
  • Cable Car to Monte
  • Jardim Botanico or Monte Plalace
  • Curral das Freiras
  • Pico do Aireiro
  • Ribeirio Frio
  • Levada dos Balcoes
  • Camara de Lobos
  • Encumeada Pass
  • Paul da Serra
  • Serra de Agua
  • North Coast
  • Porto da Cruz
  • Ponta do Sol
  • Madalena Do Mar
  • Funchal Hotel Zone
  • Ponta de Sao Lourenco

Porto Santo Day Trip

VIRTUAL TOUR

Check the following video slideshow to get further inspiration to visit Madeira 🙂

THINGS TO BUY

The best destination for souvenir shopping is Funchal with various souvenir shops as well as shops with handmade crafts. Some typical souvenirs to buy are: Madeira wine , Rebuçados de funcho (fennel sweets ) , madeira embroidery & bolo de mel (honey cake).

A unique souvenir to buy is handmade wicker baskets and the best place to purchase it and see the work in action is at the village of Camacha .

View da Ribeira da Janela, Madeira

FURTHER READING

You can check the following posts :

  • Madeira Beaches
  • Town & Villages of Madeira

Other useful websites for more information about Madeira

  • Visit Madeira : The official tourist website of Madeira
  • ZigZagonearth : The most comprehensive guide about Madeira

Some good travel guides to buy before your visit to Madeira in paperback and kindle

  • DK Eyewitness Top 10 Madeira (Pocket Travel Guide)
  • Lonely Planet Pocket Madeira

TRAVEL RESOURCES

  • Flights : I always use Skyscanner as my first choice as it’s so easy to use and you can search best deals by month. Momondo is another very good search engine as well as Google Flights .
  • Accommodation : I always use Booking.com as my first choice, as it offers a great choice of accommodation at affordable prices and it’s so easy to use. TripAdvisor and Trivago are the best search engines to check deals from different websites; however not as good for checking the actual properties & rooms. Airbnb is a great alternative to find out homes and apartments to rent by real homeowners.
  • Ferries : For Porto Santo check Lobo Marinho
  • Car Rental : I always check Skyscanner for the cheapest car rental options.
  • Public Transport : There are 4 different companies with their own website for checking public transport in Madeira: Horários do Funchal , SAM , EACL & Rodoeste
  • Day Trips & Tours : Viator provides the most comprehensive list of day trips and you can book directly with them. TripAdvisor is also a great place to search for tours & activities to do.
  • Travel Insurance : SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

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An insider's travel guide to Madeira

By Adam Turner

Free travel guide to Madeira Portugal

Until you’ve experienced Madeira (that hair-raising landing, the cliff-hugging drives, its potent poncha cocktail), it might be difficult to understand its appeal. But this Portuguese archipelago is certainly alluring, and not just because it’s back on England ’s travel green list . What Madeira lacks in size (it’s only 35 miles long and 14 miles wide) it makes up for in the sheer variety of things to see and do – from its Hawaii -esque waterfalls and thick forests to its ocean adventures , incredible hikes and exhilarating toboggan rides. Couple all of that with cool design hotels, stylish restaurants and consistent warm temperatures, and you’ve got yourself a solid year-round holiday destination.

Things to do on Madeira

Dolphin watching tour

SPOT SEA LIFE

Jump on a boat to see dolphins and whales up close – though if you’re lucky enough to have a sea view , you may spot them from your hotel room. Otherwise, the originally named VIP Dolphins offers a three-hour trip from Funchal on a swish 20-man catamaran loaded with sparkling wine, cocktails and canapés.

TAKE A HIKE

Prefer to keep your feet on dry land? Hike one of Madeira’s 200 levadas , former irrigation channels now used as walking trails, instead. Which route to take depends on how fit or adventurous you are. PR 6 Levada das 25 Fontes is a relatively easy one (beware, there are two paths) that takes you past stunning waterfalls and the cute Rabaçal Nature Spot Café selling lovely homemade cakes, tea and coffee , salads, soups and sandwiches.

Vereda do Larano

Another option is Vereda do Larano – a point-to-point hike (you finish at a different place to where you started) that’s a little more daunting. Still, despite teetering close to sheer drops into the Atlantic Ocean on occasions, it’s a reasonably flat coastal hike with spectacular views around every bend.

TAKE IN A SHOW

An excellent way to put your feet up after a long walk is to have a relaxing night at the Wes Anderson -worthy Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias . This glorious 19th-century playhouse in Funchal, with its cosy red velvet chairs, pretty ceilings and glistening chandeliers, hosts everything from theatre shows and classical concerts to funk sessions and art exhibitions .

GO TOBOGGANING

Bizarrely, this was the islands' first means of downhill transport. Back in the 19th Century, locals used to get from Monte (a civil parish in the mountains) to Funchal by riding a glorified wicker basket. Now, visitors, guided by two men with straw hats dressed in white, can do the same down a two-kilometre stretch of road, from the Nossa Senhora do Monte Church to the suburb of Livramento (€25 for one person, €30 for two and €45 for three people). The best way to reach Monte is by taking the cable car from Funchal (€11 one-way).

The best places to visit in Madeira

The capital city Funchal

SHOPPING, EATING AND EXPLORING FUNCHAL

Unlike the rest of Madeira, the capital city Funchal feels like mainland Portugal . There are calçada Portuguesa (traditional black-and-white pavements), bakeries peddling warm pastéis de nata and snack bars everywhere. Spend mornings picking up fresh tropical fruit, such as custard apples, banana passion fruit, guava and papaya, from Mercado dos Lavradores (the farmers' market). Browse shops such as Fábrica Santo António (its biscuits and cakes make great gifts) and Livraria Esperança (an old-school bookshop ) in the afternoon. Art-lovers may instead fancy popping into Caravel Art Centre – an independent gallery, shop, café and studio – while green-fingered visitors should delve into Funchal’s sprawling botanical gardens, home to more than 3,000 plant species from all around the world that grow in Madeira's fertile volcanic soil.

GO BACK IN TIME

Santana Madeira

On any rainy days, visit Santana on the north coast to see the traditional palheiros houses, triangular thatched buildings dating from the 16th century. The ornate buildings are uninhabited, but it’s worth a trip for the craft shops and a sense of how islanders once lived.

HIT THE BEACH

Madeira Porto Santo Beach

For the best sands, head across to the neighbouring island of Porto Santo , two-and-a-half hours away by ferry from Funchal harbour (around €50 in low season and €60 in high season for a return). Known as the Golden Island for its long sandy shore that stretches over five miles, it’s a dreamy place to recline on a sun-lounger with a good book and a glass of Poncha, a local cocktail made with sugar-cane spirit, lemon or orange, honey and sugar.

Porto Moniz

Back on the north-west coast of Madeira, Porto Moniz is home to one of the island’s most popular attractions, the incredibly photogenic tidal pools – it’s best to go midweek to avoid the crowds. You can immerse yourself in these bathing areas formed naturally by an ancient volcanic eruption as the Atlantic breakers burst over the pool walls.

Ponta da Sol

Sun-lovers usually go beach-hopping along Madeira’s south-west coast. The fishing village of Câmara de Lobos is pretty and charming, as is the cove of Ponta do Sol and nearby Madalena do Mar beach. Calheta is geared more towards those staying in the resorts here but is great for swimming because of its man-made sandy beach (most on the island are pebbly). Spend your days eating fresh seafood such as octopus, tuna and swordfish, and dipping in the warm sea.

Where to eat and drink on Madeira

Prima Caju

For lunch, there are healthy menus at vegan- and vegetarian-friendly Prima Caju in Funchal, while Museu Café & Petisco , next to the former bishop’s palace that now houses a collection of paintings, sculptures and religious iconography, does a very good brunch under the arches.

Address : Prima Caju, Rua da Carreira 108, Funchal Website : primacaju.pt

Address : Museu Café & Petisco, Praça do Municipio, Funchal Website : facebook.com/museucaferestaurant

Reid's Palace A Belmond Hotel afternoon tea

For a sugar rush and some old-world charm, book an afternoon tea at the Belmond Reid’s Palace , the famous grande dame of the capital. Sip Champagne with fluffy scones and carefully cut sandwiches while looking out to the shimmering Atlantic.

Address : Belmond Reid’s Palace, Estrada Monumental 139, Funchal Website : belmond.com Book a stay

Il Gallo d'Oro

If that doesn't sound lavish enough, go for a five- or six-course tasting menu at Il Gallo d’Oro , which has two Michelin stars and is housed in another of Funchal’s five-star hotels, Porto Bay’s The Cliff Bay. The menu here changes depending on the season and includes a host of beautifully presented dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, from trout to limpets and cheeses as well as vegetables from its garden, plus exceptional puddings.

Address : Il Gallo d’Oro, The Cliff Bay, Estrada Monumental 147, Funchal Website : portobay.com Book a stay

For something more traditional, head to the no-frills O Polar restaurant in the atmospheric fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. Island classics such as espetada (local kebab), frango (grilled chicken), milo frito (fried cornmeal) and bolo da caco (a doughy bread usually served with garlic) are some of the best you'll find on the island.

Address : Rua Pico da Torre 26, Camara de Lobos Contact : No website; +351 291 944 442

S Boutique

For a nightcap, head to Three House or Sé Boutique Hotel , whose rooftop bars serve brilliant cocktails in an atmospheric setting: Three House has an open, minimalist poolside space with 360-degree views (try the Tipsy Bee cocktail: Citadelle gin, grapefruit juice, honey and basil purée), while Sé Boutique’s layered terrace combines a bar and garden with offbeat design, bold colours and pink-flamingo statues.

Address : Three House, Rua Brigadeiro Oudinot 2, Funchal Website : threehouse.com Book a stay

Address : Sé Boutique Hotel, Travessa do Cabido 17, Funchal Website : seboutiquehotel.com Book a stay

Where to stay in Madeira

Savoy Palace

SAVOY PALACE

This is a striking five-star hotel, shaped like a cruise ship, a short walk from the capital's centre; its regal marbled rooms have freestanding baths and meditative sea views. It has more pools and restaurants – Galáxia Skyfood is a must – than you can count on one hand, plus one of Europe’s best spas , inspired by Madeira’s Laurisilva forest. Savoy is also on the brink of opening its sixth place to stay on the island: NEXT will be a stylish, tech-rich hotel aimed at millennials.

Address : Savoy Palace, Avenida do Infante 25, Funchal Website : savoysignature.com Book a stay

Okulus Madeira Funchal

Also in Funchal is Okulus, a neatly designed, four-bedroom villa from Funchal Cottages, a collection of smart holiday properties owned by a local creative. This one sits on the edge of town overlooking the ocean, with views from the pool and terrace. Bedrooms mirror the surrounding nature: industrial-looking concrete walls and blue and earthy hues are punctuated by tastefully upcycled furniture, well-placed potted plants and soft Moroccan-style details.

Address : Okulus Madeira, Rua do Lazareto 14, Funchal Website : funchalcottages.co.uk Book a stay

Casa da Levada

CASAS DA LEVADA

Nature lovers should head west to the sustainable , family-run Casas da Levada close to Ponta do Pargo. Set on the edge of the lusciously green UNESCO World Heritage Site of Laurisilva forest, it began life as a singular, modest country home. Now there are six individual houses and a swimming pool, with a hobbit-sized bar, small farm and organic vegetable gardens. All buildings are self-catered (or B&B) and interiors are a mix of rustic and Japanese minimalist, with a few quirky touches.

Address : Casas da Levada, Rua da Lombadinha, Ponta do Pargo, Estreito da Calheta Website : casasdalevada.com Book a stay

The tiny, picturesque village of Porto da Cruz, on the north-east corner of the island, is worth a detour if you fancy catching a few waves. It's the kind of place that charms you into staying longer than you'd planned. If that happens, we'd recommend Jaca – a well-priced cool hostel with a relaxed vibe and private rooms. All rooms and common areas are sprinkled with local and international artwork, vintage furniture and trinkets handpicked by the lovely young owners, Joaquina and Tomé. Next door is Snackbar A-Pipa, a favourite restaurant on the island thanks to its welcoming staff, warm ambience, exquisite atum (tuna steaks) and powerful ponchas, the island's legendary rum-based drink.

Address : Casas Próximas, 1 Rua Dr. João Abel de Freitas, Porto da Cruz Website : JacaHostel

Getting around Madeira

It’s best to hire a car when visiting Madeira as public transport is limited – but take care, as roads can be dangerous. Local taxis are well priced and offer bespoke packages for day trips around the island. Uber is also available in Funchal. Car-rental companies: FBI Automóveis ; Auto Rent a Car ; Madeira Rent . Bus companies: SAM ; Rodoeste ; EACL .

Madeira entry requirements

The islands of Madeira are currently on the green list for UK travellers (though mainland Portugal is not). Anyone visiting from Britain will need to present a negative PCR test taken at least 72 hours before arrival. For anyone without this, the Madeiran government will pay for a test to be given, although any individuals taking up this offer will need to self-isolate until the results come through. As with other green list destinations, British travellers will need to take a lateral flow (antigen) or PCR test in the three days before arriving back in the UK, followed by another one on the second day back – and complete a passenger locator form. On Monday 5 July 2021, Madeira said that it would accept visitors who had been given any of the vaccines being administered worldwide, thus allowing in those whose jabs came from an Indian-made version of the AstraZeneca vaccine that the EU hasn’t yet approved.

Who flies to Madeira and from where?

Direct flights from the UK to Madeira are offered by Jet2, EasyJet, British Airways, Wizz Air and TUI. Flights via Portugal are offered by Portugal’s national carrier, TAP Air.

Airports: Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Gatwick, Glasgow, Luton, Stansted, Heathrow, Manchester, Newcastle, Leeds.

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TSA provides reminders for travelers ahead of Spring Break

Kendra Mazeke , Digital Content Producer

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As travelers gear up for spring break activities, the Transportation Security Administration wants to remind travelers what can and cannot be brought through airport security.

TSA expects a 6% increase in spring break travel nationwide this year, including an 8% increase in travel out of Jacksonville.

Agents at the Jacksonville International Airport demonstrated Tuesday some of the most commonly surrendered items, including sunscreen, hair products and household food items.

Other confiscated items included weapons like knives, firearms and even a grenade.

TSA reminds travelers that they can travel with a firearm, but it must be stored properly inside a suitcase and checked in at the airline ticketing counter. If not, you could face a hefty fine.

“If you do not do that, we’re going to get law enforcement involved, and you’re going to get a penalty from TSA, which can go upwards of $15,000. Very costly, very avoidable mistake. To give you the numbers -- last year, we had a total of 74 firearms confiscated here at the security checkpoint. So far this year, we’re at 10,” TSA Regional Spokesperson Mark Howell said.

So, if you’re traveling, remember the 3-1-1 rule.

Any liquid, including sunscreen, needs to be three ounces or less, in a one-quart bag and one per person.

Also, it’s best to arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to find parking and get through security.

For more information on travel trips, visit www.tsa.gov .

Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.

About the Author:

Kendra mazeke.

As a proud alumnus of Bethune-Cookman University, Kendra is a Jacksonville native, who loves all things lifestyle-related.

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