why to visit madeira

Peneda-Geres National Park

Best Things to Do

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Douro Valley

9 Top Reasons to Visit the Island of Madeira

Although it's part of Portugal , the island of Madeira is closer to Africa than it is to Europe . A four-hour flight from London and Paris, this stunning subtropical island is often compared to Hawaii for its volcanic landscapes, rugged coastline, and botanical wonders. We've highlighted nine reasons to visit Madeira including stunning scenery, natural lava swimming pools, and world-class fireworks.

Swim in Amazing Coastal Rock Pools

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

On the northwest tip of Madeira, the village of Porto Moniz is home to a series of natural swimming pools formed by volcanic lava. They're naturally filled by the sea and the water is crystal clear.

Although the pools are completely natural, there are handy amenities on site like changing rooms, a children's play area, restrooms, lockers, sun loungers, and a snack bar.

West of Funchal you can walk along the coastal promenade to rock pools cut into cliffs including Doca do Cavacas and Camara de Lobos.

See Breathtaking Scenery

This striking island is made up of dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, black rocky beaches and a wild and wonderful interior crisscrossed by ancient water channels ( levadas ).

Two-thirds of the island is classified as a nature reserve and the volcanic soil means that pretty much anything can grow on the land. Beyond the capital Funchal, the island's peaks and ravines are pretty much deserted leaving them free for hiking, climbing, mountain biking, and canyoning. 

See One of The Largest Fireworks Shows in The World

Funchal's New Year's Eve fireworks display lights up the entire bay with a spectacular pyrotechnics show. The shape of the bay provides a natural amphitheater and fireworks are set off from more than 50 different spots. The tradition dates to the 17th century when huge bonfires were lit up on the last night of each year. 

The event held the Guinness World Record for the largest fireworks display in the world in 2006 and remains one of the best places to be on New Year's Eve. 

Visit the Birthplace of Football Legend Christiano Ronaldo

The island's airport was renamed in early 2017 to honor Madeira's homegrown hero, Christiano Ronaldo. This Real Madrid and Manchester United Football superstar was born in the Santo Antonio neighborhood of Funchal and there are tributes to the footballer across the capital.

The Pestana CR7  is a boutique hotel by the harbor decorated with memorabilia including signed shirts and a bronze sculpture of the athlete by the entrance. It's located above the Christiano Ronaldo Museum , home to a vast collection of trophies, life-size mannequins, photographs, and fan mail. You're also likely to see posters, street art, billboards and merchandise depicting Ronaldo throughout the island. 

Ride Through The Streets on a Toboggan

Where better to take a cable car up a mountain for a toboggan ride than on a subtropical island that rarely sees snow? Visitors flock to the hilltop town of Monte to take a bone-rattling " toboggan " ride into Funchal in a wicker sled guided by men in rubber-soled boots that serve as human brakes.

This traditional method of transport dates to 1890 when locals came up with an easy way of traveling down the steep, winding road into the capital. Don't miss the cable car ride up to Monte, a 15-minute journey that offers panoramic views of Funchal Bay and the ocean. 

Taste World Class Wine

Madeira's fertile soil and warm climate make it a top wine producing spot and the island has been producing some of the world's best fortified wines for over 500 years.

Madeira Wine can be enjoyed both as an aperitif (served dry) and a digestif (served sweet). Head to the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos for a free tasting at top wine producer, Henriques & Henriques or in Funchal join a tour and tasting at  Blandy's , a famous wine lodge that dates to 1811. 

Enjoy Year Around Sun

Known as the "island of eternal spring," Madeira's subtropical climate makes it a great destination to visit all year round. The hottest months are August and September when temperatures reach around 26 degrees Centigrade (78 degrees Fahrenheit) but it's a popular spot to seek out winter sunshine as temperatures hover around 19 degrees Centigrade (66 degrees Fahrenheit) in January and February.

Given Madeira's diverse landscape, it has quite dramatic microclimates which means that you're never far away from sunshine, wherever you are on the island. 

Walk on Europe's Highest Cliff Skywalk

For knee-trembling views of Madeira's stunning coastline, head to Cabo Girao where the best viewpoint is from the suspended glass platform at Europe's highest skywalk.

The lookout spot is 580 meters above sea level and the views stretch past the cute town of Câmara de Lobos into Funchal. It's free to visit and you can grab a coffee from the on-site cafe to calm your nerves before or after your trip. While there consider riding the Rancho cable car down to the beach at Fajãs do Cabo Girão. 

Go Tasting at a Beautiful Art Deco Food Market

Get a taste of local life at the Mercado dos Lavradores (farmers or workers' market), an Art Deco food market in Funchal that dates back to 1940. The two-tiered hall is decorated with intricate hand-painted tiles and is packed full of stalls selling tropical fruit, vegetables, spices and flowers.

Don't leave without sampling some fruit you've never heard of before and seeing the lively fishmongers work their magic on the catch of the day in the separate fish hall. 

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Madeira Travel Guide: 20 useful Things To Know Before You Go

Have you got some questions about travelling to Madeira? In this ultimate Madeira travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know for planning your trip to the Portugese island.

We’ll take a look at how to make the most of all that Madeira has to offer, the logistics of your trip and the sensible planning stuff. So read on for the full Madeira travel guide plus 20 things to know before you go…

Madeira is a Portuguese island situated off the west coast of Morocco and north of the Canary Islands. The volcanic island’s striking terrain makes it an incredibly unique place. Its dramatic slopes are densely populated with green vegetation and a skyline of jagged mountain peaks beckon you to explore.

Madeira is known by many as the ‘pearl of the Atlantic’ for many reasons including a constant subtropical climate, exotic fruits, spectacular coastlines and extraordinary landscapes .

Madeira’s skyline of jagged mountain peaks makes it a hiker’s dream destination

The island’s staggering geological formations are down to it essentially being a plate of a volcano that once thrusted up out of the Atlantic Ocean. Its basalt rock crags, coastlines and mountain peaks have shaped much of its tourism and visitors are encouraged to discover its history.

One of the island’s main charms is its web of walking trails . From calm coastal rambles to challenging mountain scrambles , there are routes for every hiker. The trails are found on most good navigation apps which means there is scope to get creative and plot your own route.

For such a small island, it has a mighty amount to offer tourists, especially for adventure-seekers . The valleys are carved out by roaring waterfalls and gushing streams which has provided a constant supply of canyoning openings making Madeira one of the best places in the world for canyoning. 

Madeira’s elements also provide a playground for rock climbing , surfing, snorkeling, cycling, paragliding… the list goes on…

Cynthia and I took two weeks to explore Madeira in January, but we needed far more time! The island has such a peaceful energy and while there’s so much to physically do, it’s also a place to relax. 

We wanted to pass on everything we learned from our trip and help you have just as much fun. So please read on for our ultimate Madeira travel guide!

Tip: See our  Madeira Travel Page  for a complete overview of all our travel guides about Madeira!

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Madeira experiences & travel resources

Top experiences.

• Sunrise hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
• Walking Tours in Madeira
• Whale watching & Sunset sailing tour
• Canyoning Adventures in Madeira

Madeira Travel Resources

• Rent a car in Madeira
• Book your stay in Madeira
• Travel Insurance for outdoor adventures in Madeira
• Madeira Hiking Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Visiting Madeira: Madeira entry requirements

Schengen zone citizens Schengen zone citizens can travel visa-free to Madeira.

Non-EU/EEA and UK citizens Non-EU/EEA and UK citizens can enter Portugal without a visa and stay there for up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism, business trips, visiting family or friends, or any other short-term purposes.

US citizens US citizens are allowed to travel to Portugal for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa.

2. When is the best time to visit Madeira?

This totally depends on what you want to get out of your adventure but Madeira is a superb destination anytime of year. Thanks to its subtropical climate, Madeira gets sunshine all-year round with warm temperatures ranging around 18C-22C in winter, spring/autumn 20-24C and around 24C-28C in summer.

What I loved about Madeira was that it had diverse microclimates .

In the southern town of Ponta Do Sol, you’ll get sun all-year round. The east of Madeira, which was the first to thrust up out of the Atlantic as a shield volcano, is the driest. Meanwhile the central mountainous part can get more changeable weather because of the higher elevation. The northern area is more green, more humid and more likely to have rain. 

2.1) What is the best month to go hiking in Madeira ?

During our trip in late January to early February, we had average temperatures of 22°C which was pleasant for hiking. Some of the trails had little shade, but in those temperatures it was just lovely to be out in the sunshine without any serious risk of heat stroke/dehydration. 

Hiking in summer would make for a sticky time and it’s not easy schlepping up a mountain with the sun bearing down on you. You’d also probably have to go on your adventures in the morning and evening which makes it a little harder to plan. If you want to explore the best of Madeira’s mountains and trails, organize your trip for winter, early spring or autumn.

The handy guide to hiking in Madeira including our 7 favourite hike

2.2) What is the best month to go canyoning in Madeira?

With about 128 canyoning openings in Madeira, you can do it all year round. The water temperatures in the water runs don’t vary too much, but the air temperature will make a difference especially if you’re spending hours in the water.

If you’re travelling to the island purely for canyoning, I’d recommend booking a trip in spring/summer/autumn when it will be over 25C outside.

Canyoning in Madeira: everything you need to know

Madeira is known for being one of the best destinations in the world for canyoning

2.3) When is the tourist season in Madeira?

As a result of its alluring all-year round sunshine, Madeira is popular with tourists throughout all seasons. Locals have told me that Madeira gets incredibly busy in July .

If you want to head to some of the popular trailheads, it’s important to plan your activities earlier or later in the day due to parking and busy coach-loads of people (even in winter!).

2.4) What is the hottest month in Madeira?

The hottest month in Madeira is August, with an average temperature of 27°C. July also hits a similar temperature. If you’re planning to do some hiking during this time, I’d stick to other months. The levada walks are very sheltered by the forests, but the mountainous region is very exposed to the sun .

2.5) Should I visit Madeira in winter?

Cynthia and I traveled to Madeira in the height of winter and we both agreed it was a brilliant time to be out there. We both would love to come back again in this time of year.

I live in England and Cynthia lives in Belgium . In January, gloomy gray clouds hog the sky and it’s miserable… we were both desperate for some sunshine and beautiful surroundings. Madeira gave us more than enough vitamin D and was such a good tonic for the winter blues . 

Practically, we found that the winter temps in Madeira were ideal for hiking and exploring the island. The sea was around 20C (very warm for that time of year) but I was told it is usually a little cooler at 18C in winter. If you’d like to swim in warmer waters, hold off booking a trip until the autumn when the sun has heated up the sea.

3. Travel insurance for Madeira

‘Oh, I won’t need insurance’. Stop it. Yes you do. Accidents happen when you least expect it and if you don’t have insurance you can get in all sorts of sticky situations. 

Funnily enough, on our trip in Madeira, we were staying with a friend of Cynthia’s. For context, she had explored some really remote parts of the Earth and hadn’t had any accidents. When we were there, she severely sprained her foot just by walking to the shop and she couldn’t walk for weeks! 

It just goes to show that anything can happen at any time so spend a few quid and get yourself insured. We recommend HeyMondo as a reliable all-round insurer.

Need  Travel Insurance for Outdoor Activities in Madeira ? I use and highly recommend   HeyMondo Travel Insurance .  As a reader of Journal of Nomads, you get a 5% discount off your insurance plan!

4. What is the best way to get to Madeira?

The only way to get to Madeira is by flying into its airport (Aeroporto do Funchal). The airport is 13km away from Madeira’s capital Funchal. 

Although the airport is commonly known as Aeroporto do Funchal, it was officially renamed Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in 2016. Ronaldo was born in Funchal and grew up in the nearby parish of Santo António.

The architecture of the runway is pretty spectacular as the structure is a huge platform supported by hundreds of pillars! 

The airport mainly hosts flights from Europe, so if you’re flying outside of Europe you may have to consider transfers into your journey. The most important thing to mention is Madeira has one of the only airports in the world with wind limits in place .

This means if there are strong winds, flights will be diverted or canceled . It does happen pretty regularly, so remember to get good travel insurance covering flight issues.

5. Transportation in Madeira: do I need to rent a car in Madeira?

In short, yes, you will need to rent a car in order to get about the island . Many of the trailhead and canyoning starting points are remote and near impossible to reach without a car. 

5.1) Car rental services from Funchal airport

Hiring a car is a fantastic way to access the island’s myriad of mountains, beaches and forests . Madeira is a small island and if you’re located centrally, most places take one hour or less to drive to. The best place to rent a car is at Funchal Airport.

I’ve written a full guide on everything you need to know about driving in Madeira which you can read here. It’s got lots of helpful tips and advice that we learned during our trip.

The full guide on how to rent a car in Madeira and driving rules.

5.2) Parking in Madeira

Visitor parking for visitors seems to be a total bugbear for the locals and we were on the receiving end during our stay. We thought it was important to include in this Madeira travel guide.

When we arrived at our accommodation, we were loosely told of a parking spot. It was clear of private parking signs, wasn’t near a yellow line (which means no parking in Madeira) and there were plenty of spaces available in the surrounding area.

On our third day, we walked down and found a threatening note pinned on our car from a resident who said they would call the police if we parked there again and some *other lovely language*. Within minutes, some locals came out of their homes and stared us down. We scuttled away before they got out their pitchforks. 

We couldn’t help finding the situation funny (Cynthia kept the note as a token of our stay) but we were obviously confused because we had played everything by the rules. Even other locals said we had not done anything wrong.

It was probably some tetchy neighbors who hated visitors. Nevertheless, it’s something to bear in mind. Also just make sure you double check with your accommodation about delegated parking spaces , don’t park in spots that are labeled ‘estacionamento privado’ and don’t park on yellow lines .

5.3) Public transport in Madeira: Buses

In our time on the island, we didn’t see many buses. I did some research while I was there to see if it was possible to travel to other parts of Madeira from Ponto do Sol but the timetables were pretty difficult to navigate and the services weren’t regular.

Timetables for buses leaving from Funchal to urban areas can be found here, while timetables for buses leaving Funchal to the inter-urban areas can be found here .

5.4) Public transport in Madeira: Taxis

Taxis in Madeira are yellow saloon cars with two blue stripes across the vehicle’s body. Taxis that drive outside of Funchal don’t use a taxi-meter and work on a kilometer basis. The government sets prices for pre-defined routes which can be found on the back of the front seat.

From what I’ve read online , you can usually haggle on the price with the driver – just do it before you set off on your journey. 

The app Bolt is in operation on the island, but it doesn’t have many drivers using it outside Funchal. I tried to use it twice from Ponto do Sol but didn’t have any success. 

Note: If you can’t drive but want to make your Madeira trip happen, there are ways where you could organize transfers (sadly it won’t come cheap!). Take a look at GetYourGuide and get in touch with local tour companies.

5.5) Hitchhiking in Madeira

Cynthia and I passed hitchhikers during a trip. Annoyingly, we couldn’t pick them up because one time they waited in dangerous parts of the road where it was impossible to stop. The following time we passed another hitchhiker, they started wildly flapping their arms and jumping up and down while running towards us. It wasn’t the way to say ‘hey, I’m going to be chill in your car’.

Needless to say, if you’re going to hitchhike here, make sure you wait on a part of the road where it’s safe for the driver to pull over, and flag down a car safely .

6. How many days do I need in Madeira?

Madeira is an amazing destination for adventure-seekers. There are endless activities to get stuck into… these include hiking , canyoning , rock climbing , coasteering , surfing, paragliding, diving, trail running and cycling.

However, Madeira is also a destination to rest. There are numerous yoga days and mountain meditation retreats to choose from. The island has so many forces of nature and it’s good to take some time to appreciate it. 

Cynthia and I spent two weeks on the island and we were desperate to extend our trip. There was so much more to explore!

The magic of Madeira is that you can pack in a lot of activities and also take everything in at an easy pace. The people living here are very relaxed and we felt a calm energy with the quality of life. I’d recommend anytime from 10 days to two weeks to get a taste for everything Madeira has to offer.

7. What activities can I do in Madeira?

7.1) hiking along the levadas and veredas.

Hiking is definitely one of Madeira’s main attractions. From calm coastal rambles to challenging mountain scrambles, there are routes for every walker.

Levada, meaning to carry , is an irrigation system that collects water and transports it across the island. The routes often start perched up high in the mountains and snake their way down into villages, towns and cities. 

The island’s web of waterways span about 3,100km and are some of the longest irrigation systems in the world . Some of the channels are about 600-years-old and the structures are synonymous with Madeira. 

Nowadays, the channels are used for human consumption, electrical energy and agricultural uses. However, they are also a brilliant source of inspiration for hikes because the systems wind into some seriously beautiful and remote places on the island! They are known as levada walks .

The word vereda translates to path . Madeira’s veredas can widely vary from a simple route in the forest to a trickier mountainous path.

In the mountainous region, the trails are named by PR which are a useful tool to find trailheads and plot your distance/difficulty.

Madeira is pretty unique in that its trails are clearly marked and maintained. This means it’s really easy to shorten/lengthen versions of routes and link up mountains and beauty spots. 

The handy guide to hiking in Madeira including our 7 favourite hikes

7.2) Canyoning in Madeira

The valleys are carved out by roaring waterfalls and gushing streams which has provided a constant supply of canyoning openings. Madeira is known for being one of the best places in the world for canyoning and it’s synonymous with outdoor lovers on the island.

Adventure groups can cater for total beginners to experts and Madeirans really encourage you to give canyoning a go. 

7.3) Rock climbing in madeira

Contrary to what you’ll find written online about climbing in Madeira, there are a lot of varied climbing routes here. 

There are venues for sport, trad, multipitch, bouldering and deep water soloing dotted all over the island. I was really impressed how even at the easier venues, there were magnificent coastal views. 

The climbing community here is really welcoming and it’s easy to link up with locals. Alternatively, if you’re new to climbing and want to give it a go, there are groups that can provide equipment and training for the day.

Climbing in Madeira: the full guide for rock climbing on the island

7.4) Coasteering in Madeira

If canyoning seems a little too daring and you want to opt for an activity more chill, why not try coasteering?

Coasteering takes place exclusively on the coastline and involves lots of cliff jumps, swimming and some scrambling. 

Coasteering is less committing than canyoning – if you want to sit it out, you can! Large groups can be taken for this reason and is more inclusive than canyoning. Many tour operators on the island also offer this activity.

7.5) Snorkeling and diving in Madeira

Staggered all along the volcanic coastline are rocky outcrops which harbor incredible marine wildlife. The eastern shores are some of the finest for seeing thousands of unique fish and sealife. 

I’d really recommend heading to Beach Pedra D’eira, Caniçal for snorkeling. It’s a tiny pier that’s tucked away from the tourist spots. The turquoise waters here shimmer in the sunlight so it’s generally a lovely place to chill. Once you start exploring beneath the water, there are so many brightly-coloured fish, marine animals and plants to swim up to. 

If you’re wanting more of an organized snorkeling or diving trip, here are some tours we recommend:

7.6) Surfing in Madeira

Did you know Madeira is a surfing destination? The island is known for having constant swells which attracts surfers from across the globe . 

Something to note is that Madeira is a volcanic island with rocky crags and very little sand . This means it isn’t the easiest, especially when you’re just starting out learning.

Madeira Surf Centre has a great article with a map locating spots across the island . They also provide lessons ranging from total beginners to advanced. 

According to Surfer Today , the best site with one-to-six foot waves for beginners is Fajã da Areia (north of the island). Meanwhile, the west coast is a hit with intermediate and advanced surfers. There are also spots which can whip up 50-foot waves, like in Ponta do Pargo!

Note: If you’re heading out to Faja, be careful of where you put your feet. There are lots of sea urchins there!

8. Madeira travel guide: Where are the best hiking spots in Madeira?

Madeira’s skyline of vibrant jagged peaks and its web of walking paths makes the island a hiker’s dream destination.

The island’s trails are clearly established and widely available on navigation maps. This energized me to create routes that linked the heavily-trodden tourist ones to peaceful wild paths.

Here are our recommendations for some lesser-known trails which are varying in ability and terrain. You can read my full hiking guide for Madeira here .

• Caldeirão Verde Levada Trail :  13km out and back, 3 hours, easy-moderate, bring torch (tunnels) 
• PR 8 – Footpath of Ponta de São Lourenço : 6km out and back, 3 hours, easy-moderate, can get very busy (go early or in late afternoon)
• Pico Grande via Caminho Real da Encumeada PR 12 :  9.5 km out and back, 4.5 hours, moderate-hard
• PR14 Levada dos Cedros : 10.5km circular, 3 hours, easy-moderate, not very busy
• Levada do Larano – Boca do Risico : 9.2 km out and back, 3 hours, easy, part of bigger 24 km trail:  Caniçal’s Levada Larano Footpath
• Levada do Moinho – Levada Nova :  10km loop, 3.5 hours, moderate, bring torch (tunnels)
• Chao dos Louros to Pico Ruivo:   Point-to-point 13km, +1600m -1000m descent, 5 hours, hard

9. Money and currency in Madeira

9.1) currency in madeira.

The currency in Madeira is the Euro. Currently €1 equates to $1.01 USD or £0.85 British sterling.

9.2) ATMs in Madeira

The majority of hospitality businesses take credit/debit cards but it’s a good idea to have some cash with you, especially for parking in touristy spots or hiking trailheads.

9.3) Exchanging money in Madeira

Currency exchange offices are open Monday to Friday and Sundays from 09:00 to 19:00, closing for an hour between 13:00 to 14:00. On Saturdays the offices open from 09:00 to 19:00. Outside these hours, exchanges can be made at some hotels.

9.4) Tipping in Madeira

While tipping isn’t expected like it is in the United States, the wages in Madeira for hospitality services are fairly low so it’s a good idea to tip.

10. Packing list for Madeira

• Waterproof coat and trousers : Madeira has a whole range of microclimates and the thunderstorms here are whoppers. It’s best to bring a lightweight coat that will battle a heavy, but short, shower.
• Trail runners/ walking boots . What shoes should I bring to Madeira? Ah, the age-old question . This completely depends on what you prefer on your feet. I prefer trail runners that aren’t waterproof so they can drain and dry quickly. It also helps me move faster. Other people prefer better ankle support and waterproof boots. Keep in mind it is hot and you’re only really likely to get your feet wet if it rains or if you’re heading on some of the levada walks.
•  Small ankle gaiters. I didn’t need to use these but brought them out with me just in case. Small lightweight gaiters help prevent dust/small rocks/mud from getting in your shoes. If you accidentally get caught in rain, they’re a pretty useful item to have.
• Head torch . On average, Madeira gets about 8 hours of sunshine daily, so you’ll probably grasp as much of the day as you can. If you’re out hiking and you haven’t made it down to a village in time for dusk, it will get dark awfully quick. Also on some of the levada trails, there are long tunnels so a head torch is an essential piece of kit.
•   Hiking pole s . Granted, you probably won’t need these on the shorter hiking routes, but Madeira does have some steep trails. Poles are like an extra pair of legs and are so useful for boosting you up high ascents, preventing falls and stabilizing you across streams.
• Lightweight t-shirt. If you’re hiking on the island, you’re likely to sweat a lot. Don’t wear cotton because it absorbs moisture and is a nightmare to dry out. Stick to polyester.
• Shorts/skort . Cynthia and I didn’t anticipate how hot the island would be, even in January. We had to head to Decathlon and pick up some skimpier clothes to hike in!
• Longer leggings/midlayers . In the evening, temperatures can get cooler and it’s always smart to pack warmer bottoms and a fleece.
• Battery pack and cords for phone/camera . Always an essential if you’re heading out for a long day.
• European plug adapter . Madeira uses TYPE C, like many other EU countries.
• Swimwear. It became a daily ritual for Cynthia and I to go swimming in the sea after a long day of hiking. Even when we went in January, the water temperatures were 22 degrees. Bliss.
• Beach shoes . The island is essentially a whole plate of volcanic rock so many of the coastlines are pebbled beaches or rocky outcrops. Beach shoes are super useful to stick on your feet to get into the sea with ease or to explore the waterfalls.
• Mosquito repellent . Sadly, yes you need this. Madeira has a sub-tropical climate meaning it has hot summers and mild winters.
• Water bottle . Hiking in hot temps means it’s essential to keep hydrated. The water is clean in Madeira and you can drink from the taps.

11. Food and drink in Madeira

It won’t come as much surprise that Madeira is a seafood paradise . Most restaurants serve octopus, salmon, sardines and prawns accompanied with fries. 

The supermarkets are packed with typical Western food, great bakeries and super fresh fruits and vegetables.

11.1) What is Madeira’s signature dish?

One of the island’s specialties is its Bolo do Caco. This is basically a slab of garlic bread stuffed with delicious herbs. Many cafes serve Bolo do Caco with fillings like ham, cheese or octopus. We loved this dish and ate it really regularly!

Filete de Espada, also known as scabbard filet , is a type of black fish that swims deep in Madeiran waters. The dish is typically made with passion fruit and banana sauce. Head to Funchal for the best restaurants. 

Another seafood speciality to try are the lapas (limpets). These are usually fried and then served with a splash of lemon juice and some butter. 

Another common dish you can find is insalata di polpo (octopus salad). Let’s just say it wasn’t Cynthia’s favorite thing in the world… she likened it to pickled octopus on vinegar lettuce.

11.2) What is Madeira’s signature drink?

Poncha is Madeira’s signature boozy drink. It’s made up from rum, lemon and honey. The strength will hit you like a sack of spuds but it’s very tasty. Many restaurants and bars make the drink up in a huge jug, like rum punch. Look out for other variations too – I tried passion fruit and it was delicious.

12. Accommodation in Madeira

12.1) airbnb in madeira.

There are plenty of Airbnb rental properties available in Madeira , but they don’t come cheap. I’d recommend widening your search to camping pods, tipis or basic huts… there are some gorgeous little places tucked away in secluded spots that are often much cheaper than apartments.

12.2) Hostels in Madeira

There are a range of hostels to choose from dotted all along Madeira’s coast, but I struggled to find any situated in the mountainous regions. Take a look at Booking.com to check them out.

12.3) Co-living in Madeira

If you’re planning to stay longer than a fortnight and don’t want to fork out thousands on an apartment, there are co-living spaces available for like-minded people on the island. Search for co-living groups on Facebook here .

12.4) Camping in Madeira

With the island’s vast hiking opportunities, why not combine it with a camping trip? There are campsites across the island which you can find on this useful website .

If you fancy a multi-day hiking trip, the trails provide endless wild camping spots and you’ll be guaranteed some of the most magnificent views of the island .  Set up camp at dusk, pack away in the morning and follow the no trace rules .

13. What area to stay in Madeira

There’s no hard and fast rule about which area is best to stay in Madeira. As heads up, it’s not cheap to find accommodation on the island and you’ll likely be based around what can fit your budget (see above). 

Your location doesn’t matter too much because most places on the island take one hour or less to travel to . 

Cynthia and I stayed in the stunning southern town Ponta do Sol (it means point of the sun and it gets the most sun on the island) . It was a fantastic base for us to explore Madeira. There was a rocky beach, gorgeous sunrises and levada walks from the town. Practically, Ponta do Sol had a small shop, bank, post office and gas station. 

If you’re more drawn towards the mountains, you’ll likely want to base yourself in the north/south, ideally below or above the mountainous region. The west is known for surfing , while the east has some of the best swimming spots . The north of the island is far less touristy and is considered wilder. 

If you can’t drive, you’ll likely have to base yourself in Funchal and arrange transfers from the capital. However, I’d highly recommend hiring a car for your trip. It’s near impossible to get to some of the wilder spots in nature without a hire car.

14. What languages are spoken in Madeira?

Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal so the primary language is Portuguese . English is taught as a second language in schools, so many Madeiran people speak it.

14.1) Useful phrases to know for your trip in Madeira

I also suggest you install the Google Translate App for Portuguese and download it so you can use it offline.

15. What religions are practiced in Madeira?

The majority of people in Madeira practice Christianity , with Catholicism being its largest denomination. You’ll see that a lot of the houses are adorned with small shrines of saints and some of the trailheads have tiny chapels which are intricately decorated.

16. How is the internet in Madeira?

16.1) mobile data.

I use a British SIM card called EE. I bought a European add on and my coverage was excellent for the entire time I was there. The only time I obviously didn’t have coverage was in lowlands of the mountains and deep in the forests. 

Cynthia had the same experience with her Belgium SIM. Most European and American SIMs will have easy add on options available for your trip.

16.2) Wi-Fi

You won’t struggle to find Wi-Fi. It’s very established in hospitality facilities, homes and tourist destinations. 

17. Is it expensive in Madeira?

17.1) accommodation.

I’ve touched upon this earlier, but compared to other Portuguese areas, Madeira is more on the expensive side with rental homes. There are ways around this though, like co-living during your stay. Scroll up to 12. for more information.

17.2) Supermarkets

Madeira is a small island, so most things need to be imported which is why you have to be careful what you pick at the supermarket (for some bizarre reason pasta sauce was €6?). 

There’s always ways to eat cheaply though, and we found groceries that worked for our budget. 

On the plus side, some of the island’s fruits and vegetables come at a total bargain. Fish too is caught locally and is good value.

17.3) Restaurants

Cynthia and I ate out at a few cafe bars where the dishes were good value with good portion sizes. We were able to get a plate of food and a glass of wine for around €12-15.

18. Are drones allowed in Madeira?

Yes, drones are allowed in Madeira. You don’t need to declare anything but ensure you pack it in with your hand luggage , not hold luggage.

Also, please be respectful and safe when flying. If you’re at the top of a summit or in a precarious place, think about hikers and climbers who could be scared easily by the sound of a drone. Same goes for wildlife being disturbed by the sound or movement or a drone.

19. Culture and etiquette in Madeira

Although many of the elderly people practice Catholicism, the majority of people dress according to the weather and there aren’t any strict dress codes to adhere to. 

Spitting and littering is a big no-no in Madeira. Madeira is such a green clean island and its vast amount of thriving plants are no doubt partly down to Madeirans keeping their surroundings clean.

20. Tours in Madeira

There are plenty of tour groups and guides to choose from for all kinds of activities and excursions. 

During our trip, the adventure group Epic Madeira took us out for some climbing and canyoning. Their guides were super knowledgeable and friendly, with their focus being combining safety with having a laugh. 

Epic Madeira offers rock climbing, coasteering, climbing and hiking trips. If you’re looking for equipment or a specific transfer, they’ll also be able to help you out. The staff are really into supporting the island’s tourism so if you want to do an activity they don’t offer, they’ll be able to put you in touch with a popular tour group. Contact them here for more information . 

If you’re looking for transfers or heading to busy trailheads, take a look at GetYourGuide and get in touch with local tour companies.

I hope this Madeira travel guide covers all of your questions and helps you with planning your trip. Madeira is such a spectacular place and we’re really excited to share what we’ve learned with you. If you have any other queries or insights, please comment below or contact us !

Related posts

Car hire in Madeira: The full guide on how to rent a car and driving in Madeira

The Handy Guide to Hiking in Madeira Portugal with Our 7 favourite Madeira Hiking trails

Climbing in Madeira: The Full Guide For Rock Climbing On The Island

Canyoning in Madeira: Everything you need to know

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A first-time guide to the magical island of Madeira

Jul 24, 2023 • 8 min read

Hiking on a levada trail is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Madeira  Paul Biris / Getty Images

Located off the coast of Africa but also an autonomous region of Portugal, Madeira has its own unique identity.

Rugged and subtropical, home to both tropical fruit and legendary wine, seaside resorts and remote mountain villages, misty forests and rocky beaches, it’s the kind of place that makes your head spin – in a good way.

In particular, Madeira has much to offer the independent and intrepid traveler. Hiking, swimming, diving and surfing are not only accessible but exist at a variety of skill levels. And a unique and delicious food and drink scene awaits you between pursuits.

When should I go to Madeira?

Madeira is blessed with a subtropical climate, and the island experiences an average temperature of 70°F (21°C).

January sees the most rainfall, while the waters surrounding the island are at their warmest in September. If you're seeking peace and quiet, you may want to avoid the crush of tourists in August. Otherwise, Madeira is a great vacation option virtually year-round.

Is it easy to get to and around Madeira?

Madeira is linked to the world via Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (yes, he’s a native of the island), a destination for international flights, including  direct flights from New York City .

However, getting around the island is a bit more complicated. There is an extensive public bus transport system, but if you want to hit the more remote corners for hiking routes or beaches, you’ll almost certainly need a car. Several car hire companies have offices at the airport, although rates aren’t cheap.

Driving in Madeira has its challenges. The island is incredibly hilly, and its roads can be intimidatingly steep and winding. If you don’t feel confident driving in these circumstances, be sure to rent an automatic (more expensive than the standard European manual, but worth it in this case).

How long do I need in Madeira?

Because Madeira’s highlights are found at disparate points across the island, a stay of at least four days is necessary. Consider a night in Funchal to get oriented, and supplement this with stays in one or two more destinations elsewhere on the island – dedicate a day to active pursuits and, ideally, the following day to recover on the beach. Tack on at least another two nights if you plan to hit Porto Santo, the other inhabited island that forms part of the Madeiran Archipelago.

Top things to do in Madeira

Hike a levada or a vereda.

Nearly all of Madeira’s rain falls on the island’s north shore, so to facilitate agriculture on the island’s south, its early settlers created a series of man-made aqueducts known as levadas . Madeira is home to more than 804 km (500 miles) of levadas , a feat of engineering recognized by Unesco. Today, the island’s levadas , as well as its veredas (a general word for a path) double as hiking routes, which often pass through spectacular scenery and landscapes that include waterfalls, cliffs, jungle and incredible viewpoints.

Levadas exist in varying degrees of difficulty and repair; check out  WalkMe , a regularly updated guide, to see if the levada you have in mind is open and safe.

A popular, entry-level walk is the Levada do Caldeirão Verde , on the island’s west end. The hike spans a relatively easy 11.8km (7.3 miles) round trip, which passes through diverse scenery that includes a lagoon and waterfall. Another popular walk with an entirely different feel is the Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço , a 7.2km (4.4 miles) round-trip that tackles the island’s dry, rocky easternmost point and includes an opportunity for a refreshing dip in the ocean.

For those looking for more of a challenge, consider the trails that summit Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo , the latter the island’s highest point, and a route that occasionally goes above the cloudline.

Ride a cable car

Madeira’s coast is home to fajãs , areas backed by cliffs that were previously only accessible to boats. That is until a series of cable cars were built. Originally used to shift goods and crops, today Madeira’s cable cars also transport tourists and day-trippers.

The Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz, on the island’s northwest corner, is 600m long, lasts five minutes and is one of the steepest cable cars in Europe. The destination is a vast, crowd-free rocky beach.

Also impressive is the cable car that descends to Fajã dos Padres , a rocky beach that is home to a farm and banana plantation, a cafe/restaurant and a dock for swimming.

Swim in a natural pool

The waters that surround Madeira have both an otherworldly azure hue and a temperature that’s accessible year-round. Unfortunately, the island’s rugged geography and stone beaches mean that accessing that water isn’t always easy. Thankfully, on a few different spots across the island, locals have taken advantage of lava outcroppings to sculpt oceanside swimming pools.

The most famous natural pool is in Porto Moniz, on the island’s northwestern corner, although with its extensive handrails, bathrooms and changing rooms, it doesn’t feel so natural these days. An even more dramatically-positioned version can be found at Doca do Cavacas, on the island’s south shore. For something much more natural, consider the pools in Seixal or Cachalote, both of which also have the benefit of being free.

Taste fortified wine

Madeira’s eponymous wine was created when barrels of the stuff spent months on ships baking in the hot sun. This happy accident caused the wines to oxidize, giving them an entirely new and desirable set of flavors and aromas. Today, seven houses on Madeira make fortified wines in this style, nearly all of whom offer tours and tastings. H.M. Borges , in Funchal, was founded over a century ago and is one of the more traditional houses on the island – they offer a visit and tasting with advance notice. Barbeito is one of the more progressive houses and offers a variety of tastings daily.

Madeira also used to be the most important center of sugar production in the world and there are still six operational sugarcane mills/distilleries on the island. Today, it’s the only place in Europe that produces agricultural rum – rum distilled from sugarcane juice rather than from sugar or molasses. North Mills Distillery , on the island’s north shore, is one of the only remaining steam-powered factories in Europe. Contact the distillery to arrange a visit and tasting, including a Rum Masterclass. In the island’s south, Engenhos da Calheta dates back to 1901, offers tastings, and is also a good place to buy bolo de mel , Madeira’s signature sweet that combines molasses, citrus juice, lard, Madeira wine and spices.

Much of the local rum makes its way into poncha , a drink that combines white rum, orange and/or lemon juice and honey and/or sugar, which is then whipped to a frothy consistency with a special wooden tool. One of the most popular places for the drink is Taberna da Poncha , located in a mountain town in the island’s interior.

Visit a beach

Specifically, a rocky beach. Madeira’s particular geography and location mean that the island’s beaches consist exclusively of round stones. Buy a pair of aqua socks to traverse this relatively challenging terrain, and take note of the haunting roar of tens of thousands of rocks spinning and shifting with each wave.

If you want sand, head to the man-made beaches at Calheta or Machico, or take the ferry to Porto Santo, which has a 7.5km (4.6 miles) fine-sand beach that’s considered one of Europe’s best.

Eat an espetada

Madeira’s signature dish is espetada , chunks of beef marinated in garlic and bay leaves, skewered on a laurel branch or metal skewer, and grilled. To serve, the skewers are hung from unique contraptions, and diners pair them with bolo do caco , a type of bread made in part with sweet potato that’s toasted and slathered with garlic butter; milho frito , cubes of deep-fried polenta; and a green salad.

It’s a delicious combination of dishes, not to mention the perfect post-levada-walk meal. It’s also a fun way to eat, with espetada venues in Madeira ranging from butcher shops, where you choose your cut and grill your own skewer, to old-school restaurants.

My favorite thing to do in Madeira

I love digging into regional food and the Sunday market in Santo António da Serra, a mountaintop village in the island’s east, is Madeira’s culinary scene in miniature. Vendors assemble in the early morning and bring a huge variety of tropical fruits – bananas, of course, but also passionfruit, guava, papaya, custard apple, pitanga, tamarillo and other fruit generally more associated with South America.

There are also beautiful vegetables, baked goods, dried herbs and local honey, among other items. A handful of stalls sell simple prepared foods, and a butcher provides a grill and tables for a DIY espetada . The market has a particular emphasis on drinks, with vendors selling pitchers of poncha , local cider, and even boozy coffee drinks, all of which are paired with dentinhos –  snacks that can range from deep-fried pork rinds to a tiny salad of favas.

How much money do I need for Madeira?

Unfortunately, Madeira isn’t exactly a budget destination. Accommodation is relatively expensive, with relatively few hostels or budget options, and a rental car is needed to get to the more remote corners of the island.

That said, this is Portugal – food and drink are pretty good value.

• Hostel bed: from €60
• Basic room for two: from €120
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from €120
• Public transport ticket: €1.35
• Coffee: €0.75
• Sandwich: €1.50
• Dinner for two: €40
• Glass of poncha : €2.50

Does it rain a lot on Madeira?

The north half of Madeira can be relatively wet, but the south, including Funchal, only receives between 600mm and 1000mm of rain per year. In general, and especially outside of the relatively wet period between November and February, rain is only an occasional concern on Madeira.

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10 great reasons to visit Madeira in 2021

Hike up rainforest trails, jumping across streams fed by cascading waterfalls as you go, and a striking vista opens up: mountain peaks with tree-covered slopes, the ocean a wide ribbon of deep blue beyond. The sun presses against the leaves, piercing through the canopy filled with exotic birds. A romantic, make-shift bar serving rum mixed with fresh fruit juice greets weary hikers, as do the locals who share in their tales of adventure through this extraordinary natural landscape.

This is Madeira – a vibrant green island set in the Atlantic Ocean. Just 35 miles long and 13 miles at its widest point, it is part of Portugal and only an-hour-and-a-half flight from Lisbon. The year-round temperate climate – even in winter the daytime temperature hovers around 20ºC – delicious food, locally grown wine and a history dating back to the 15th century have been attracting travellers for more than 100 years.

Winston Churchill, Gregory Peck and George Bernard Shaw all stayed on the island and today it remains warm, welcoming and blissfully untouched by mass tourism. Here are our top 10 reasons to visit Madeira.

A vast array of landscapes

The island’s natural world is incredibly diverse. Above the coastline are high, rainforest-covered mountains, lush and rich in native species such as the near-extinct La Gomera laurel tree and the eerily beautiful (and curiously named) stinkwood, which can grow to 130ft in height. You’ll spot both, along with many ferns and rare birds such as the Madeiran chaffinch and laurel pigeon, in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Laurissilva, an ancient forest that has an almost mystical feel. Higher still, above the treeline, you’ll find a more rugged beauty, with rocky and herbaceous pastures filled with pretty flowering heathers and, occasionally, native blueberries. At Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira’s easternmost point, fragrant grasslands top striking sandstone cliffs. All along the coast, small farms occupy green valleys such as Chão da Ribeira, in the north, where a cluster of tiny villages shelter from the ocean that froths at the foot of black cliffs.

Otherworldly hikes

The best way to experience Madeira’s natural beauty is to hike a levada , small irrigation channels originally created to transport water from the north of the island to the drier south. With about 1,550 miles of tracks to choose from, there’s something for every fitness level. Balcões is an easy, well-trodden 1.6-mile walk which winds through trees to emerge at a lookout, with striking views of forest-covered hillsides, white-washed villages that seem tiny from a distance and of course the ever-present ocean. For a longer hike, the seven-mile 25 Fontes levada makes for a relaxing three or so hours spent winding through high forests, culminating in a pretty lagoon surrounded by waterfalls.

Contemporary architecture

Natural world aside, there are some remarkable man-made elements on the island too. Madeira’s curvaceous casino, which opened in 1976, was designed by superstar Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer along with Portugal's Alfredo Viana de Lima, and gives the illusion of an object surging from the earth. The Casa das Mudas art museum, a low-slung, dark-brick building by architect Paulo David, sits with brutalist intent on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Its strikingly minimalist galleries host exhibitions of contemporary and modern art, with a focus on Portuguese and Madeiran artists such as painter Martha Telles. On occasion the structure itself outshines the artworks, with large windows carving the sunlight into modernist shapes against the white walls and offering endless views of the ocean below.

Unusual produce

Funchal’s Mercado dos Lavradores is held in a two-storey modernist building dating from 1940. The local fishing fleet’s easy access to the deepest parts of the ocean is reflected in the otherworldly and bizarrely shaped catches on offer at the market. You’ll also find pieces of tuna as large as a side of beef and trays of fresh lapas , the delicious local limpet. Upstairs, test your knowledge of fruit; exotic species including guava, custard apple, prickly pear and pitanga are all locally grown, along with indigenous vegetables such as espinafre selvagem (wild spinach) and tamarillo (a nightshade similar to a tomato) and flowers such as flames of the forest, the seeds for which were brought to Madeira by Captain Cook in 1772.

A burgeoning food scene

The cuisine here is another big draw. Fresh tuna traditionally comes with a piquant vinegar, garlic and oregano sauce, while black scabbard, a fish that’s only caught in the depths of the ocean, is served with fried banana. Lapas taste a bit like a cross between an oyster and a scallop and are delicious with garlic butter and lemon. Espetada , meat cooked on long skewers over hot coals, is another speciality. Choose from a range of cuts – everything from prime fillet to offal such as heart – the grilled meat requiring nothing more than bolo do caco , a local flat bread made with sweet potato and filled with garlic butter.

A formidable wine heritage

Vindima is the Portuguese name for the annual grape harvest, a sociable community celebration. The grapes for Madeira’s famous fortified wines are harvested between late August and early September, so for wine aficionados this is a great time to travel to the island and participate. Alternatively, pay a visit to Blandy’s Wine Lodge at any time of the year. A guided tour through the fragrant winery provides plenty of information on how Madeira is produced and is rounded off with a tasting.

Fresh fruit

Madeira is incredibly lush and fertile, even roadside verges have trees heavy with fruit. European crops such as cherries and plums flourish in cool valleys, while a little higher in the tropical zone, avocado, mango, guavas, cherimoya, araçais and passion fruit are plentiful. Madeira’s bananas are particularly delicious – small, fat and sweet. Visit a banana plantation for a guided tour to learn how they’re grown and harvested and to taste them too. To try the island’s plentiful fruit supply, visit the market in Funchal (see above) and combine several flavours in a smoothie or check out one of Madeira’s locavore-style restaurants, where the menus incorporate the island’s bounty, including a delicious, must-try passion-fruit pudding, pudim de maracujá .

Wild beaches

The island’s largely unspoilt coastline is a natural attraction. Seixal is one of the most beautiful beaches, its fine black sand framed by mountains and jagged cliffs. Surfers should head to pretty Jardim do Mar, named among the best big-wave point breaks in the world, and families can swim and play in the rock pools at Porto Moniz, which are patrolled by lifeguards. But don’t stay land bound. Hire a yacht, ride a catamaran, windsurf or kayak to see the island from the sea’s vantage point. Between April and October, you can spot whales and dolphins. Or get up close and personal with barracuda, mackerel and giant anemone by diving in the Garajau Nature Reserve.

The island’s historic sled ride

Riding a wicker basket set on greased wooden runners down a steep 1.2-mile path is not for the faint-hearted but it’s a local tradition in Funchal, where the carros de cesto toboggans have been transporting people and goods from Monte to the town below since the mid 19th century. Place your trust in two carreiros – the snappily dressed drivers of the sled who have been guiding riders down the hill for decades – and expect an exhilarating, adrenalin-pumping 10 minutes before asking to do it again the next day.

Porto Santo

With its golden sandy beaches and gently lapping turquoise sea, this tiny island is the sort of place where exhaling deeply, relaxing your shoulders and unwinding feels compulsory. It's just a 20-minute flight or a two-and-a-half-hour ferry ride from Funchal, Madeira’s capital and largest city. Once here, try thalassotherapy to leverage the minerals found in seawater and seaweed or a psamotherapy spa treatment, which involves lying in a warm bath of the island’s fine, carbonated sand – rich in marine micro-organisms, mollusc shells and natural anti-inflammatories – for 30 minutes of deep relaxation.

For more information on planning and booking your trip to Madeira, visit Madeiraallyear.com

40+ Best Things to do in Madeira: An Ultimate Guide

LOOKING FOR THE BEST MADEIRA THINGS TO DO?

You are in the perfect place — this is the ULTIMATE guide to the best things to do in Madeira. Living in Portugal since 2020, I’ve explored many hidden gems in the country, but this was the first time that I was truly blown away.

So why Madeira? Madeira is a captivating archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, renowned for its rugged landscape, lush gardens, and world-famous Madeira wine. It’s a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mild climate year-round, spectacular hiking trails, and scenic ocean views.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

Explore everything that Madeira has to offer on this Madeira Mystery Tour Full-Day – Private 4×4 Jeep with a perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊 ❤️

If you are looking for intense natural beauty, gorgeous blue waters, green lush landscapes, and a delicious food scene, then you need to start planning your vacation to this tropical paradise.

And this article is here to help — from what to do, where to stay, and even what you should order when eating out, it’s all here. This is the ULTIMATE guide to Madeira, offering insights on Madeira what to se e and highlighting Madeira best places . Ready to explore the best of Madeira? Let’s dive in

Why Visit Madeira Island? 

Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago, is situated about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) southwest of mainland Portugal , near the coast of northwest Africa. This unique location in the North Atlantic Ocean offers a blend of European charm and exotic landscapes.

So why visit Madeira Island? You should come to explore its stunning natural beauty, scenic hiking trails, and outdoor adventures like whale watching or snorkeling with dolphins. The island’s delicious cuisine and famous Madeira wine make it a haven for foodies and nature lovers alike.

The island is also very important maritimely. It is a refuge for sea life, and its cultural identity is as unique as its landscape. There are so many things to do in Madeira Island. Ready to experience the best of Madeira Portugal? Here are my top picks on the 40 things to do in Madeira Portugal.

40+ Best Things to do in Madeira

1. hike from pico do areeiro to pico ruivo .

One of the most amazing experiences on Madeira is the hike from Pico do Areeiro (the third-highest peak on the island) to Pico Ruivo. This is a very challenging hike, but it promises breathtaking views of the island. 

The hike takes a total of around four hours. It is classed as a difficult hike. There are steep inclines throughout. Despite its challenges, the trail is safe. It is well maintained and has a clear track and railings where needed. 

You could wait at Pico do Areeiro to see the sunrise and then set off on the hike. This will lead to a more crowded trail. If you bring a headlamp, you can easily set off a bit before sunrise and enjoy the sky filling with light while hiking. 

Your best bet is to book a tour that will drop you off and pick you up . If you choose to drive, you will need to make the journey out and back again.

THINGS TO DO IN MADEIRA

2. watch the sunset at pico do areeiro.

If you’re looking for an easier option, you can watch the sunrise at Pico do Areeiro and skip the hike. This will still allow you to catch some extraordinary views at the best time of day. The best way to get here is via car or via a tour, like this Sunrise Tour with Coffee/Tea and Breakfast.

If you are coming by car 🚘, make sure to arrive early, as parking spaces at the car park are limited and fill up quickly. We left at around 5h30 in the morning and arrived at 6h30. The parking was almost full.

You’ll need to walk about 15 minutes from the parking area to the viewpoint. Make sure to have a flashlight with you, as it will be pitch dark. Head to the entrance of the PR1 Vereda do Areeiro. You’ll walk around 10 minutes before you get to the spot where you’ll see people setting up shop to wait for the sunset.

If you are driving, make sure to check the route ahead of time, and don’t blindly trust Google Maps, as it may lead you in a strange way. 

Why book a tour ? Pico do Areeiro is one of the top attractions in Madeira, and while a taxi or Bolt might be able to get you there, you’re likely to find yourself stranded when you’re ready to head back.

☀️ Make sure to dress warmly. With the wind and no sun, you can expect quite cold temperatures. Also, pack snacks and drinks. Pico do Areeiro is Madeira’s third highest peak, so weather changes are to be expected.

3. Do At Least One Levada Walk 

Levada walks follow what are essentially old gutters. These walks are unique to Madeira Island. The levadas were historically used to transport water from different parts of the island for farming. 

The Levada walks are generally well-marked. They are marked with a PR followed by a number. PR stands for pequena ruta, which means short route. 

There are many different types of hiking options in Madeira that cater to every type of hiker, from the more seasoned to the beginner. But it can be hard to find the one perfect for you, that is why the WalkMe app was created. This app gives you maps and directions for more than 50 walks around the island. Be aware it is not free, you’ll have to pay a small fee.

So, for example, if you want a full day hike, check out the Caminho Do Pináculo e Folhadal (PR 17). This is one of the most difficult Levada walks, but it is also one of the most stunning. For an easier levada walk, head to Levada Do Barreiro (PR 4), which is just 5.2 km (about 3 miles).

So, if you are wondering what to do on Madeira island if you are into hiking, here are some of the most famous levada walks.

• Levada do Caldeirão Verde : This stunning trail winds through the lush Laurisilva forest, leading to the impressive Caldeirão Verde waterfall . It’s known for its scenic beauty and the tunnels along the path.
• Levada das 25 Fontes : This 25 fountains walk Madeira takes you to a beautiful waterfall and the 25 Fountains, a collection of spring-fed pools. The diverse vegetation and mountain views make it a memorable hike.
• Levada do Rei : Starting in São Jorge, this walk offers a more tranquil experience. It takes you through rich green landscapes and provides a glimpse into the island’s unique ecosystem.
• Levada dos Balcoes: An easier and shorter walk leading to a panoramic view overlooking the Ribeira da Metade and Ribeiro Frio Va lley . It’s perfect for bird watching and enjoying spectacular mountain views.
• Levada do Risco : This route showcases the dramatic Risco waterfall. It can be combined with the 25 Fontes walk for a longer hiking day.

3. Visit The Fishing Village of Camara dos Lobos 

Câmara dos Lobos is a picturesque fishing village on Madeira’s coastline. It is located about nine km (around six miles) west of Funchal and was reportedly one of Winston Churchill’s favorite places in the world. 

Câmara dos Lobos has a small, vibrant harbor full of colorful fishing boats. The charming village still manages to retain some elements of authentic Madeiran coastal life. Fishermen come in daily with their fresh catches. 

You can wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets. And of course, get some fresh seafood. Try the grilled scabbard at Gavião do Ilhéu. If you are looking for things to do in Madeira beach at night, then make sure to head to this quaint beach town.

☀️ When you are finished with all your Madeira activities of the day, staying at the perfect accommodation in Madeira can be the cherry on top of your experience. Câmara dos Lobos is home to two picturesque hotels, both of which have rooms facing the oceans, The Pestana Churchill Bay and the Pestana Fisherman Village .

4. Visit at least one Fajā  

One of the best Madeira attractions are fajãs. Fajãs are coastal plains spread out at the foot of coastal cliffs. These were formed when the cliffs fell during volcanic activity.

The unique landscape of these plains offers stunning natural beauty. Some call it a natural Eden. 

Among the must-visit Fajãs on Madeira is Fajã dos Padres. The land on Fajãs is full of lush greenery and fruit trees. But there is also a perfect little pebbly beach. The water here is a very pleasant 24C (about 75F) in summer. This makes it an ideal place to go for a dip. 

5. Take One of the Many Cable Cars

Generally, the easiest way to reach the Fajās, including Fajã dos Padres, is by cable car. 

The Fajã dos Padres cable car descends 300 meters up the cliffside. The journey takes less than three minutes, and passengers ride in a fully enclosed car.

There are seven cable cars in total around Madeira. The Madeira Botanical Garden Cable Car is another option. I personally loved the Garajau Cable Car, as it took you to one of the most beautiful spots around Madeira, the Garajau Partial Nature Reserve.

6. See The Valley of the Nuns from Above and Below 

The Valley of the Nuns, or Curral das Freiras, is a village in the center of the island. It is located inside a volcanic crater. You can see the village both from above and below. 

The best spots to get views from above are at viewpoints like Eira do Serrado. You can drive to the viewing deck there. It’s a particularly impressive spot at sunset. The drama of the mountains and the valley is incredible from this vantage point.

But equally as impressive as being inside of it all. Once you’re inside the village, you’ll be surrounded by the dramatic cliffs. You can actually walk from the viewpoint down into the village. The hike takes about one to two hours. 

There are many tours that can take you to the Valley Nuns, including this 4×4 tour Madeira tour of the Valley — if you are going to take a tour, 4X4 tours Madeira are the best as you can get a 360 view of the island’s beauty.

Note: Although one of the best Madeira places to visit, there are sheer drops near the trails, so it’s not advisable if you have a fear of heights or if you’re traveling with small children. 

7. Go Scuba Diving  

Madeira is a seriously underrated diving destination. There are definitely great hikes on the island, but if you don’t get under the water, you are missing out on a gem. 

Garaju is a popular diving spot with several dive sites (this is where I went diving). You can opt to do a shore dive or take a boat to other spots farther out. The spot even has resident groupers who are curious and tend to swim up close. Plus the price is pretty amazing, 40 euros ($43 USD) per dive with all equipment included.

Other dive spots include the artificial reef at the Afonso Cerqueira wreck and the Blue Tunnel, another excellent choice. There, you’ll swim through a tunnel surrounded by fish. 

The water temperature around Madeira is very pleasant. It’s much warmer than off the beaches of the mainland. This is thanks to the Gulf Stream, which keeps the ocean warm almost year-round.

🤿 Translation: leave that 8mm behind and opt for a nice 3mm wetsuit. 

8. Enjoy the views from Cabo Girão Skywalk

Cabo Girão Skywalk is an awe-inspiring vantage point that stands as one of the highest cliff skywalks in Europe. The glass-floored viewing platform is perched at 580 meters above sea level. From atop the platform, you can see a panorama of the Atlantic Ocean, Funchal, and the coastline below. 

The Skywalk is always open (24/7). To avoid huge crowds, you should arrive either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Luckily, these times both coincide with the best views. Sunrise and sunset across the mountains are both an extraordinary time to be up here. 

9. Go deep-sea fishing off the coast of Madeira 

A deep-sea fishing adventure off the coast of Madeira is an exciting and unique experience. These waters are considered to be some of the best in the world to catch an impressive bounty. Joining a fishing charter is a chance to try your hand at fishing, plus it’s a fun, immersive experience.

You won’t actually have to venture that far off the coast. Just a few miles from shore, and you can cast your reel. The fish you’ll likely catch include blue and white marlins and tuna. 

This is one of the best things to do in Madeira Islands for novice fishermen and is also great for seasoned anglers. 

10. Opt For a Private Whale and Dolphin Watching Experience 

The ultimate way to see all of Madeira’s marine life is on a private whale and dolphin watching experience .  Madeira acts as a sanctuary in the ocean for whales and dolphins on their migratory routes, making whale and dolphin watching next level. 

In fact, the area around the island is the largest whale sanctuary in the North Atlantic. There are some 28 species of whales in the area . For dolphins, there are around 20 different types.

A private tour ensures a personalized journey with a dedicated guide. You’ll cruise for between two and four hours. You have the chance to get off the boat and snorkel. 

Besides whales and dolphins, you may also spot sea turtles and other marine life. 

11. Try Poncha

Poncha is a traditional Madeiran drink . It is made with aguardente (sugar cane liquor), honey, sugar, and fresh citrus juices. This can be described as a local take on a classic punch. Though it is likely inspired by pãnch, from India. It is one of the best alternatives to Madeira wine. 

The drink is available just about anywhere on the island. But, it is said to have first been created by the fisherman of Câmara de Lobos. And trying it in its birthplace adds a special touch. Head to Bar Filhos do Mar in Câmara dos Lobos. Besides being in the birthplace of the drink, it is also a spot Cristiano Ronaldo visited not once but twice. 

Top Things to do in Madeira’s Capital: Funchal

11. ride the funchal-monte cable car .

The Funchal-Monte Cable Car is a quintessential experience in Madeira. It connects Funchal to the village of Monte. 

You’ll be able to see amazing panoramic views as you ascend. Below you is the city, lush countryside, and the stunning Atlantic Ocean. It is a true patchwork of the colors of nature. 

One of the unmissable places to see in Madeira, this trip takes 15 – 25 minutes each way. Each fully enclosed car can accommodate a maximum of six people. The cable car opens at 9h00, and the last boarding is at 15h45.

12. Visit the Church of Our Lady of Monte 

At the top of the Funchal-Monte Cable Car, you can visit the Church of Our Lady of Monte. The church dates back to the 18th century and has stunning Baroque and Rococo elements. Inside, you will find ornate wooden carvings and intricate tiles. 

One of the best things to see in Funchal Madeira Portugal, this site actually has a lot of significance. While the church dates back only to the 18th century, a previous chapel dates back to the 15th century. That chapel was actually built by the very first man to ever be born on Madeira. 

13. Go On a Madeira Toboggan Ride 

The gravity-propelled toboggan ride takes you on a 2 km (1.2 mile) ride down the streets. These baskets have a long history in Madeira. They were traditionally used to transport goods (and people) quickly down the mountain. 

The toboggans are now open to visitors. They are expertly guided through the windy streets by professional Carreiros. The baskets can hold up to three people. The ride is open throughout the day except on Sundays.

🌟 The ride does not bring you all the way back to Funchal. It drops you at Caminho do Monte, which is still part way up the hill. Taxis 🚖 will likely be waiting, but they may upcharge you as they know you will not want to walk. So be prepared for either a long walk or an expensive ride

This is why I recommend that you take a tour, like this Private Express Tuk Tuk Tour Funchal Old Town & Toboggans experience , which not only includes a toboggan ride but also a tour of the city of Funchal – this is one of the best things to do in Funchal Madeira.

14. Explore Monte Palace Tropical Gardens

The Monte Palace Tropical Gardens showcases a collection of exotic plants. The property covers approximately 17 acres. The landscape is full of greenery and flowers from around the world. 

The terraced landscape is full of palm trees, a variety of plants, sculptures, and pathways. Keep in mind that if you walk down through the gardens, you will have to make your way back up the hill to exit. 

In addition to all of the gardens, you can also visit ducks, swans, and koi fish at the central lake. There is also a small museum with a collection of sculptures on display. 

There is also a small cafe at the top of the gardens. 

15. Stroll through the Lavradores Market in Funchal

Funchal’s Lavradores Market is a huge, lively market. It is the main market in the city. It sells everything from fruit to fish to flowers. 

You can see plenty of locals shopping here. This is a great place to try local produce. Look out for Madeira’s exotic fruits, such as passion fruit and figs, but also local specialties, such as tabaibo. Do be warned, though, that there have been reports of fraudulent fruit sales in this market. 

I always love to walk through the fish sections in these types of markets. In Madeira, you will find the freshest fish. The building is from the mid-1900s and is a mixture of Art Deco and Modernist architecture.

16. Explore the Santa Maria Street in Funchal 

Funchal’s Santa Maria Street has one main draw — the colorful, painted doors. There are shops, cafes, and boutiques here as well, but the doors are the real attraction. They create a sort of open-air art gallery. 

The street runs through the center of the old town of Funchal.

It’s usually a good idea to visit early in the morning. This is the best chance to see the full murals on the doors. During the day, they are sometimes open or blocked by chairs or tables. 

17. Go On a Wine Tasting 

One of Madeira’s best products is its wine. You can try it on a wine tour in Funchal. There are actually only seven Madeira wine producers on the island. 

Blandy’s Wine Lodge is right in the center of the city and has been in operation for seven generations. You can visit for a guided tour and a tasting. The winery also hosts special events, which are listed on its website. 

Another option is H.M. Borges, founded at the end of the 19th century. On a visit, you can spend time in the beautiful tasting room which is built with wood from the 1800s. This winery is also centrally located in the city.

18. Experience a Funchal Food Tour 

Embark on a culinary journey through Madeira with a guided food walking tou r . You’ll be led through the city and its food by a qualified local guide. You will visit a total of seven restaurants to try local dishes. 

Your guide will also make sure you understand everything you are eating. They will translate menus and answer any questions. Your guide will also tell you more about Madeira’s food history and culture. 

The tour includes all food and drink . Vegetarian options are available. If you are looking for what to do in Madeira when it rains, a food tour could be the perfect option.

19. Visit the CR7 Museum (dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo) 

The CR7 Museum is dedicated to Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who was born in Funchal. This museum is a must-visit for football enthusiasts and any Ronaldo admirers. 

The museum showcases Ronaldo’s career. It features memorabilia, trophies, and personal items, including cleats and balls from his career. The exhibits trace his journey from Funchal to stardom. 

You can also interact with Ronaldo in an AR exhibit. This is a great chance for any admirers to get a virtual photo with the star. 

20. Visit the Madeira Story Centre

The Story Centre is a museum that explores Madeira’s history. This immersive museum brings the island’s past to life and is a great option if you are traveling with kids. 

From the story of the island’s discovery to its history with pirates, interact with the past. The exhibits allow you to engage with the story of the island. The museum’s innovative approach combines technology and narrative to create a dynamic experience. The explanations are all translated into English. 

There is also a cafe in the museum building. 

Top Things to Do on Madeira’s West Coast 

21. swim at the natural swimming pool in porto moniz .

The Porto Moniz natural swimming pool is nestled along the volcanic coastline. It’s a gorgeous setting and a unique, inviting spot for a swim. The water is crystal-clear and sheltered. 

The pool is surrounded by dramatic, black basalt rock formations. All around is beautiful scenery of even more rock formations. 

One of the best places to visit in Madeira, it is also a great opportunity to swim safely in the ocean water. The entry fee to the pools is €3 per person. 

22. Visit the Piscinas Naturais Velhas 

The Piscinas Naturais Velhas are just a 5-minute walk from the natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz . Unlike their more developed counterparts, these pools are totally rustic. They are undeveloped and unspoiled. Instead, this is simply a series of rocks that create natural protection. This keeps the waves down and provides a natural swimming pool-like atmosphere. 

You can walk from one pool to the next, but the rocks are slippery and rough. You should definitely bring water shoes to navigate the rugged terrain. This is one of the best free things to do in Madeira if you are on a budget.

23. Go Scuba Diving in An Aquarium

Scuba dive in an aquarium tank to experience the unique underwater world of Madeira. This small-group experience allows you to swim with rays, sharks, morays, and other fish species. 

All of this is in a safe and controlled environment. The tank is six meters deep at its deepest. Experts will guide you the entire time. 

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver, you can plan to take part in this activity. All diving equipment is provided.  The experience includes an introductory dive first. It also concludes with a backstage tour of the aquarium. 

24. Relax at the Black Sand Seixal Beach 

Seixal Beach is renowned for its striking black sand. It is about 40 km (25 miles) from Funchal and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs. The deep blues of the sea next to the dark sand are stunning. 

Unlike many of the other beaches on the island, this beach is fully sand. It is comfortable to sit on and great for swimming or surfing. 

This is one of the places to visit in Madeira by car. There is easy parking right at the beach, but it does get busy, especially later in the day. The beach has convenient facilities, including showers, toilets, and a cafe.

25. Sun-Tan on Calheta Beach 

Calheta Beach is known as one of the sunniest spots in Madeira. It may be raining in Funchal, but there will be clear skies in Calheta. It is also one of the island’s few sand beaches. This all means it is a consistently good bet for sunbathing.

This beach is artificially made and has a nice shelter, making it super family-friendly. Calheta Beach also has significantly easier accessibility than other Madeira beaches. There are sunbeams and umbrellas for rent. 

There are resorts surrounding the beach and a grocery store nearby. 

26. Visit the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse Viewpoint 

The Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse Viewpoint is an amazing vantage point with panoramic views of the Ocean. The lighthouse sits at the westernmost point of Madeira. It is perched atop rugged cliffs 300 meters (nearly 1,000 feet) above the ocean. The lighthouse has been functioning since the 19th century. It is still working today. 

There is easy parking nearby. You can walk around and explore the area. The lighthouse also has a small museum inside.

27. More Black Sand at Ribeira Brava 

Ribeira Brava is another black sand beach. It is very spacious and has a combination of smooth sand and pebbles. There is space for your towel, or you can rent a beach umbrella and recliner. 

This beach is also very accessible, as it has wooden walkways. On the pathways, you can reach the sand and even go directly to an umbrella. In the water, there is a small separate pool, which is great for kids to swim in.

Just behind the beach is a promenade and plenty of amenities. This is a very relaxing beach for a day in the sun.

28. Snorkel with Dolphins with Lobosonda

Snorkeling with dolphins in Madeira may be one of the most memorable experiences you have. Lobosonda whale watching day tour organizes this experience .

You’ll don your flippers and mask, and alongside a marine biologist, you’ll head out to find some dolphins. Although not guaranteed, if you do spot a pod, you’ll quickly jump in the water to spend some time swimming alongside these incredible creatures.

The activity is very controlled. You will be attached to the boat by a buoy. The boat will drive along slowly, allowing you to glide through the water with the dolphins. 

All equipment is included. Crew will be on board and in the water, helping you and keeping everyone safe. 

29. Swim Under the Lava Arch in Seixal 

In the Seixal Natural Pools is an amazing lava arch nestled amidst dramatic coastal landscapes. On a trip to the pools, you can swim under the arch. 

The water here is crystal clear. The collection of pools is tidal — meaning they will change as the tides come in and out. Beyond the arch, there are caves you can swim into. 

One of Madeira top attractions, the natural pool area is free to enter. There are good facilities here, including toilets, changing rooms, and a spot for snacks.  Some of the pools are also accessible by stairs and pathways. 

30. Get Lost in the Mist at Fanal Forest

Fanal Forest, part of the indigenous Laurisilva Forest, is like a mystical foreign world. The branches of the laurel trees are thick and twisted. The area is often full of fog and moss is covering the trees, the ground, and the rocks. All of this creates an enchanting, ethereal atmosphere. 

The fog is the real kicker to create the perfect atmosphere here. While you can never be totally sure of when it will hit, early mornings are a good bet. 

You can make this a quick stop or go for a hike. There are several trails to explore for any level of hiker. 

31. Step under Waterfall of Angels 

The Waterfall of Angels (Cascata dos Anjos) is a waterfall that falls off a sheer cliff onto a roadway. The water empties down from a levada in the cliffs above. 

The road under the waterfall is easily passed by car. But be careful as people are often in the middle of the road, and cars are stopping or going slowly under the water. Especially later in the day, you might encounter a line of cars and people — so early morning is better for a visit. 

Another great time to visit is during sunset, when the light filters through the water for an amazing ambiance. 

There is a small spot for parking just before (or after) the waterfall. 

32. Eat at Casa de Pedra

While we were on the boat with Lobosonda, the resident marine biologist we were chatting with started to mention one of the best places Madeira food options was Casa De Pedra .

She kept talking about how fresh the seafood was, so we decided to take her up on her recommendation — and boy, were we happy that we did.

The food was not only delicious, the location was superb (just beside the beach) and the price was incredible. Overall, this is definitely a hidden gem that needs to be talked about!

Top Things to do on Madeira’s North Coast

31. Visit São Vicente and the Volcanic Caves  

The São Vicente Caves were created from a volcanic eruption hundreds of thousands of years ago. No, you can visit the volcanic tunnels and make your way into the subterranean earth. 

You can walk through intricate tunnels and chambers. There are nearly a kilometer of pathways. The pathways are smooth and raised, made of metal, and easy to walk along. 

There is also an educational center at the sight of the Sao Vicente Caves. This is a small interactive museum where you can learn more about volcanoes. 

32. See the iconic Santana houses 

The Santana houses are an architectural treasure nestled amidst the lush Madeira landscape. These triangular-shaped thatched houses are known as palheiros. They are a great example of traditional Madeiran architecture. They date back to the time when the island was first discovered. 

The bottom half of the houses is made of wood, while the top roofs are made of heather, wicker, and thatch. The vibrant colors—usually red, blue, and white—of the houses and their distinctive design are extremely picturesque.

33. Head to Praia do Faial

Praia do Faial is a pristine beach offering a tranquil escape. The natural beauty and secluded ambiance make this an ideal spot for sunbathing. 

The beach is covered in pebbles. And just off the coast is a naturally protected pool. This makes the water quite calm and great to swim in. 

Good facilities, including a playground, make this a great beach choice for families traveling with kids. 

Top Things to Do on Madeira’s East Coast 

34. have a espetada at talho de canico  .

Espetada is a traditional Portuguese dish , particularly popular in Madeira. It is skewered and grilled meats such as beef, chicken, or fish. This is usually combined with vegetables like bell peppers and onions. 

To have one of the best espetadas on the island, go first to Talho de Canico . This is a butcher where you can choose exactly what you want. From there, head next door to have your espetada grilled. 

This hidden gem offers a genuine and budget-friendly taste of Madeiran flavors. You’ll be eating with locals, so enjoy this off-the-beaten-path spot.  Delicious food at a local price? Doesn’t get better than that.

35. See Christo Rei 

The Cristo Rei (Jesus Christ) statue and viewpoint is located within the Garajau Partial Natural Reserve. From the viewpoint below the statue, you can see Garajau, part of Funchal Bay, and Caniço de Baixo. 

The Cristo Rei sculpture was built here in 1927. It stands 5 meters (49 feet) tall.

Parking is available near the statue. A pathway leads from the parking lot to the base of the statue, where the best views are. 

36. Visit Garajau Beach 

Below the Cristo Rei statues is Garajau Beach. This beach is at a marine reserve and is protected against fishing. 

This area is an amazing place to go diving or snorkeling. The marine life here is diverse, and you may encounter species such as manta rays or groupers. In addition to the exciting sea life, the waters here are very clear and calm. 

This beach can only be reached by cable car. It has changing rooms and toilets and one restaurant. It also have a place where you can rent scuba diving gear and go diving.

37. Explore Ponta de São Lourenço 

Ponta de São Lourenço is the easternmost point of Madeira island. The peninsula is nine kilometers (just under 6 miles) in length. One of the best ways to see the peninsula and all of the extraordinary views is to follow PR8. This short trail is 6 km (less than 4 miles) out and back. 

From the peninsula, you’ll have amazing panoramic views in all directions. The area is a haven for rare plants and diverse fauna. You’ll see birds such as Cory’s shearwater and Bulwer’s petrel. There is a €1 entry fee to the area, which supports the preservation of the reserve.

38. Visit the charming town of Ponta do Sol 

Ponta do Sol, meaning “Point of the Sun,” is known as the sunniest and warmest area of Madeira Portugal. The coastal village has breathtaking views from Cais da Ponta do Sol — the little jetty. From there, you can capture (or just take in) the pebble beach, town center, and the 16th-century church. 

There are several other small villages in the municipality worth visiting. The landscape and views here are definitely worth taking time to enjoy. 

39. Dig Your Toes in the Sand on Praia de Machico 

Praia de Machico is a long stretch (about 70 meters — 230 feet) of golden sands. It is an ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming. Just behind the beach is a beautiful promenade. Facilities at the beach include changing rooms, showers, bathrooms, parking, and lifeguards in season.

Amazingly, the sand on this beach was actually Imported from North Africa. So it is distinctly bright gold and soft. 

The beach is nicely protected by stone walls, making the water very calm and pleasant to swim in. You can rent an umbrella, but there is also plenty of space to spread out a towel. 

40. Go to the Whaling Museum of Madeira

The Whaling Museum is a great way to learn about Madeira’s maritime past as well as its history and culture. The Natural History Museum is located in Caniçal. It has life-size models of whales and dolphins and a vast collection of items from the history of whaling. 

There are interactive exhibits, such as 3D movies. You can also see old black-and-white films from this period of history. An audio guide is also available, which is a good way to learn more about what you are seeing. 

Where is Madeira Located?

Madeira is an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, southwest of Portugal. Its main island is also called Madeira, and it is part of Portugal. The archipelago is situated about 400 km north of the Canary Islands and 520 km west of Morocco.

The Madeira Archipelago consists of several islands, divided into two groups: the main islands and the Desertas and Selvagens Islands.

The main group includes two inhabited islands, Madeira and Porto Santo, and two groups of uninhabited islands, the Desertas and the Selvagens.

Madeira is the largest and most populous island , known for its lush landscapes, wine production, and cultural heritage. Porto Santo is smaller, with long sandy beaches and a quieter atmosphere.

The Desertas are a small group of three islands known for their natural reserves, and the Selvagens are a group of small islands with significant ecological value. Both serve as important sanctuaries for wildlife.

📍 MAP OF MADEIRA

Madeira Weather

Madeira’s weather is pretty versatile, making it a year-round destination. Here’s the breakdown: it’s got a subtropical vibe, so expect warm summers and mild winters. Talking temperatures, you’re looking at lows around 13-15°C (55-59°F) in the cooler months and highs hitting 17-19°C (63-66°F) when it warms up.

But remember, if you’re exploring the levadas or hiking, it will be cooler, especially in the morning and evenings, so pack accordingly.

What is the best month to visit Madeira?

From July to Septembe r, temperatures in Madeira reach their highest, typically ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), making these months the warmest time of the year. This period is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy the island’s outdoor activities and beaches.

You’ve got two main seasons to consider: a wetter, slightly cooler winter from October to April and a drier, warmer summer from May to September. Heads up, though, high season is when the weather’s hottest, and low season has more rain but still plenty of charm.

How do I get to Madeira?

Getting to Madeira primarily involves flying to Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC), located near the capital, Funchal. This airport serves as the archipelago’s main entry point.

Frequent and affordable flights are available from major European cities, including Lisbon, which is just a 90-minute flight away. Direct flights are also available from cities such as London, Bristol, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Leeds, Liverpool, and Newcastle upon Tyne through airlines like Jet2, easyJet, British Airways, and Ryanair.

If you are coming from North America, direct flights are limited, you’ll probably have to connect in Lisbon. Nevertheless, Azores Airlines offers flights from New York–JFK. An interesting route for travelers from the East Coast of North America involves connecting via Ponta Delgada in the Azores.

🛬 MADEIRA AIRPORT DELAYS

Madeira International Airport is known for its challenging conditions, which are caused by a relatively short runway and strong, unpredictable winds.

These factors occasionally cause flight delays, cancellations, or the need for diversions . It’s a good idea to have travel insurance just in case your flight changes. This makes visiting Madeira a bit of an adventure, so it’s smart to plan ahead.

How do I get around in Madeira?

Getting around Madeira is straightforward: public transport is great in Funchal but for exploring the island further, consider renting a car or joining a tour.

In Funchal, public buses are your go-to for getting around the city. They’re convenient and cover most areas well. But once you’re looking to step out beyond the city limits, that’s where you hit a snag with the buses.

There is no UBER on Madeira. Instead, you’ll find BOLT. But the problem with BOLT is that there aren’t nearly enough drivers on the island.

I found this the hard way when I arrived in Madiera at 11 pm. The initial plan was to rent a car at the airport, but the prices were insane. So I opened up my UBER app only to realize that there were no UBER drivers. I then downloaded the BOLT app and again found no drivers available.

Taxis were there, sure, but they wanted 45-50 euros ($48 USD) for a ride that BOLT listed at around 25 euros ($24 USD). Stuck at the airport and not keen on splurging for a taxi, I decided to wait. After about 45 minutes, luck finally swung my way—a BOLT driver became available.

🚗 So my recommendation? Rent a car. It’s your best bet for the freedom to roam Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes without the hassle of waiting for a ride. And for those moments when you’re not up for driving, tours are the way to go.

Do I need to rent a car in Madeira?

Yes – you definitely need to rent a car in Madeira if you want to see as much as possible of the island. Madeira is a place where having a car can transform your trip, offering the freedom to explore all the magical sights of the island.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Car Transmission : Most rental cars in Madeira are manual rather than automatic. If you’re not comfortable driving a manual car, make sure to book an automatic well in advance, as they are less available and can be more expensive.
• Driving Terrain : The roads in Madeira are known for being very winding, with steep hills that can be a challenge, especially when parking uphill. The beauty of the island often comes with a side of adventurous driving conditions.
• Parking and Roads : It’s common for people to park on the road, which can turn a two-lane street into a single lane that serves both directions.
• Driver Awareness : The mix of local and tourist drivers means you’ll encounter varying levels of driving skill. Caution is advised, especially since some visitors might not be used to the local road conditions.
• Navigation : While Google Maps is a helpful tool for getting around, it’s not always 100% reliable in Madeira. The directions may not be as accurate as you might hope due to the complex terrain and occasional lack of signal.

If you aren’t a confident driver, sticking to tours might be the better option. Staying in Funchal and taking organized tours to explore the island can provide a stress-free way to see Madeira’s highlights without the worries of driving.

Where to stay in Madeira 

Deciding where to stay in Madeira largely depends on two factors: whether you plan to rent a car and what you wish to explore .

If you have a car, splitting your stay between different locations can enhance your experience. When I visited Madeira, we decided to stay three nights in Cabo Girao, near Funchal, and then three days in Calheta. If you aren’t driving, I would advise booking a central spot in Funchal.

Most attractions are towards the west, so planning based on what you want to see is key. This strategy ensures you get the most out of your Madeira visit.

Which part of Madeira is most beautiful?

Beauty is everywhere in Madeira, but the northwestern part of the island stands out for many. Areas like Porto Moniz, with its natural swimming pools, and the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer breathtaking natural beauty.

The south coast, particularly around Funchal, combines stunning landscapes with cultural attractions. Ultimately, Madeira’s beauty is diverse, and its most beautiful part often depends on personal preference, whether you’re drawn to rugged coastlines, mountain views, or lush forests.

Things to do in Madeira: Frequently Asked Questions

How many days in madeira is enough.

Spending at least a week in Madeira gives you enough time to explore the island’s main attractions, enjoy some hikes, and relax by the sea.

Within 7 days, you can visit Funchal’s gardens, explore the mountainous interior, and even spend a day in Porto Santo. If you’ve got more time, extending your stay allows for a deeper dive into local culture and more leisurely exploration.

What is Madeira best known for?

Madeira is famous for its stunning landscapes, from lush mountains to dramatic cliffs and pebble beaches. It’s also known for Madeira wine, embroidery, and its annual Flower Festival.

The island’s levadas (irrigation channels) offer unique hiking experiences, leading through beautiful scenery. Additionally, Madeira’s mild climate year-round makes it a favorite for those seeking outdoor adventures.

Is it worth going to Madeira?

Absolutely! Madeira is worth visiting for anyone who loves nature, hiking, and exploring diverse landscapes.

It offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, from tasting its famous wines to enjoying its local cuisine. The island’s natural beauty, with its mix of mountains and ocean views, provides a stunning backdrop for a memorable vacation. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or looking for relaxation, Madeira has something for everyone.

Which is better Azores or Madeira?

Choosing between Azores and Madeira depends on your preferences. The Azores are known for their rugged landscapes, volcanic activity, and outdoor adventures like whale watching and hiking. Madeira offers lush mountains and dramatic coastlines and is famous for its levadas walks, wine, and mild climate.

If you prefer a mix of nature and cultural experiences with more predictable weather, Madeira might be your pick. For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure with diverse natural wonders, consider the Azores.

Is Madeira cheap or expensive?

Madeira’s cost can vary depending on your travel style. It’s generally considered moderately priced. Dining out, accommodation, and activities can be found to suit a range of budgets.

Public transportation and local markets offer ways to save money, while luxury resorts and fine dining can cater to those looking to splurge. Overall, with some planning, Madeira can be a cost-effective destination.

Final Thoughts: Things to do in Madeira

we’ve journeyed through the Madeira top 10 must-visits, dived into the heart-pumping activities Madeira offers, and unveiled Madeira what to see for an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re wandering lush landscapes or tasting exquisite local cuisine, Madeira captivates at every turn. And for those wondering, are there beaches in Madeira? Yes, the island boasts stunning volcanic sand beaches, each offering a unique seaside escape.

Madeira awaits to amaze you with its beauty and adventures.

Yvonne Ivanescu is the founder of Now in Portugal and Now in Rio Swim, an ethical and sustainable swimwear company. She is a writer, editor and marketer with over 10 years of experience.

Storytelling is her second nature and she wants to share the magic of Portugal with the rest of the world.

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Madeira Secret

The Complete Madeira Travel Guide in 2023

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?

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.

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.

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.

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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WHY IS MADEIRA WORTH VISITING? TOP 10 REASONS

Why visit Madeira?

A trip to Madeira is an unforgettable experience. You will discover incredible nature with stunning landscapes, a beautiful sea surrounding the island with dolphins and whales, delicious food, and super friendly people!

If that’s not enough to convince you to travel to Madeira, then you should also know that the island is an all-year-round destination. if you want to escape the harsh winter in the rest of Europe, then head to Madeira for some sunshine and warm temperature!

Read Also: 30 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN MADEIRA

10 Reasons to Travel to Madeira

Reason 1: good weather all year round.

In Madeira the climate is mild all year round, average between 18 and 24º C. Never too hot, never too cold! Thanks to this perfect climate, you will be able to explore the nature of Madeira all year round. You can swim in the natural pool at Porto Moniz , see impressive waterfalls at Levada do Caldeirão Verde ( full guide here ), hike Ponta de São Lourenço and so much more!

This is one of the best reasons to visit Madeira!

READ: WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MADEIRA

REASON 2: VISIT MADEIRA FOR ITS AMAZING LANDSCAPES

Madeira is a volcanic archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, enjoying a very mild climate and a varied and exotic landscape. Located off Morocco and Portugal, Madeira is blessed with magnificent and diverse landscapes. The whole island is like a garden. Flowers are everywhere.

Then you can find black or golden sand beaches, make sure to check our Seixal , our favorite beach in Madeira ( full guide here ). You can also find a lunar-like landscape at Ponta de São Lourenço and incredible mountains such as Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo! You can also step on the highest cliff in Europe! Yup, it’s true. For that head to Cabo Girão ( More information here ).

Another great reason to visit Madeira!

READ: BEST AREAS TO STAY IN MADEIRA

REASON 3: MADEIRA IS A RELATIVELY CHEAP DESTINATION

Compared to other islands in Europe, such as Corsica, or the Canary Islands , Madeira is still much cheaper. First of all, there are low-cost flights such as EasyJet flying to Madeira.

If you book in advance, you can end up paying less than 50 euros per person to travel there! No bad uh? Check your flight now to get the best deal – click here .

Then in Madeira most of the tourist attractions are free as it mostly involved visiting the beautiful nature, going on amazing hikes, or laying at the beach.

Hotels are also affordable with good value for money.

If you don’t know where to stay in Madeira, check out this article !

REASON 4: VISIT FUNCHAL, A STUNNING CITY AND HISTORIC CAPITAL OF MADEIRA

Funchal is the main city and capital of the island of Madeira . Its historic heart is full of bars, restaurants and shops. From Funchal you can also table a cable car to visit one of the most impressive botanical world in the world: the Monte Palace gardens , a must-see in Madeira ( more info here )

READ: 20 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN FUNCHAL

REASON 5: CELEBRATE ONE OF THE MOST AMAZING CARNIVAL IN THE WORLD

The carnival is held 40 days before Easter. A traditional parade and one of the major events in Madeira, where people from all over the world come to see the extremely well-organized Samba troupes that fill the streets of Funchal with music and dancing.

There are two carnival parades, the largest taking place on Saturday evening, the Allegoric Parade (Cortejo Alegórico) with lively and colorful costumes. The last parade, on Tuesday, the Humorous Parade (o Trapalhão), renowned for its humor and social satyrism, is the funniest parade and the one everyone is waiting for.

Don’t miss this event if you travel to Madeira during that time!

REASON 6: THE FOOD IS DELICIOUS

First of all fruits and vegetables in Madeira are simply AMAZING! Head to the Funchal market full of vegetables, fruit, and fish to realize how good and fresh the food in Madeira is.

On the street, make sure you order a Bolo de Caco, a circular Madeiran flatbread that can be filled with all sorts of ingredients, including melted cheese! Yummy.

If you are looking at some of the best restaurants in Madeira, we recommend Kampo and Akua by Chef Julio Pereira, one of the most famous places in Madeira.

For something more casual, head to Maktub de Paul do Mar, a surfer place that will treat you to delicious fish dishes and caipirinha.

Finally, make sure to try Madeira wine! One of the most famous places to do so is at Blandy’s Wine Lodge . If you want to try another special drink, then go for a poncha. A punch that combines fruit, local rhum, and honey.

REASON 7: MADEIRA IS A HIKING PARADISE

You will already notice that Madeira is a paradise for hikers on the plane going to Madeira. Indeed, most people will already wear their hiking shoes to save places on their luggage. Bringing hiking shoes in Madeira is a must! And going on a hike is another must!

There are many amazing hikes in Madeira. If you only stay for a week or a few days, then pick some of the most popular ones. We highly recommend Levada do Caldeirão Verde , or Ponta de São Lourenço for quite a different landscape in Madeira. You can also reach the top of Madeira at Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo.

Read: HIKE LEVADA CALDEIRAO VERDE IN MADEIRA

REASON 8: CHILL AT ONE OF THE MOST AMAZING BEACHES IN PORTUGAL

Head to Porto Santo, the neighboring island of Madeira, to reach a 9km long beach with crystal clear water and fine golden sand. This place has been elected one of the best beaches in Portugal, and we totally understand why! It’s stunning.

To access Porto Santo from Madeira, you will need to take a ferry. You can book you ferry ride here .

REASON 9: YOU CAN VISIT WINSTON CHURCHILL’S FAVORITE TOWN

Discover the charming seaside town of  Câmara de Lobos  in  Madeira .  Winston Churchill’s favorite town. In Câmara de Lobos you will see a beautiful traditional village by the sea with colorful fishing boats, cobbled streets, a seaside promenade, a beach, and a lot more which we invite you to discover in this post.

For us, Câmara de Lobos was one of the highlights during our trip to  Madeira . Besides, it it located near  Funchal , which makes it very convenient to visit.

READ: 16 AWESOME THINGS TO SEE IN CÂMARA DE LOBOS

REASON 10: MADEIRA WAS VOTED MANY TIMES THE BEST ISLAND DESTINATION IN THE WORLD!

Madeira was voted the best island destination in the world for the ninth time in a row by the World Travel Awards and it has been voted the best island destination in Europe seven times in eight years. Incredible isn’t it? So it’s not only us who think Madeira is such a great place to visit.

Now, you probably have enough reasons to visit Madeira. Wait no longer, book your trip to this incredible island now!

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• HIKING LEVADA CALDEIRAO VERDE
• 16 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN CÂMARA DE LOBOS
• FULL HIKING GUIDE FOR PONTA DE SÃO LOURENÇO
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• BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO VISIT MADEIRA

We are Hammer and Guillaume, a fun couple traveling the world. We will take you to some of the most amazing places on earth. Hammer is a yoga instructor and Guillaume a true water baby, enjoying all kinds of water sports. Follow-us to get the latest update about our travels.

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Hello How was the wifi at Casas de Levada in Madeira?

Hi Maria, we didn’t use much internet while we stayed there, so I can’t really say if Wifi was fast enough…

22 BEST Places to See & Things to Do in Madeira, Portugal (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 8, 2024

Thinking of visiting Madeira Island in Portugal and wondering what to expect and what there’s to see and do on this little island that’s often called the Pearl of the Atlantic? In this guide, we cover the very best things to do and places not to miss in Madeira that are worth your time the most . Take a look!

Often called the ‘Flower Island’ , Portuguese island Madeira is a truly unique destination in the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a volcanic island with stunning mountain landscapes, beautiful rough coastlines, charming villages, and an incredible variety of tropical fruit, plants, and flowers.

If you are looking for white-sand beaches and typical beach activities, then Madeira is probably not the right destination for you (although you can find some nice sandy beaches nearby!). But if you love beautiful nature, rough coastlines, quirky local places, unique traditions, and good food and wine, then you’ll love Madeira!

Despite its relatively compact size, the island offers more diversity than it looks at first sight. And there is so much to see and do in Madeira that you can easily spend a couple of weeks here and never get bored…

But who has the time to see and do everything, right? So we selected only the VERY BEST places to see and things to do in Madeira that are worth your time the most .

In this article, we share all the top sights, activities, and most popular tourist attractions in Madeira that are considered the ‘must-sees’. For each place/ activity, we also include our experience-based tips to help you make the most of your visit.

To help you plan your trip, we also created a map of the nicest places in Madeira . It should give you a better idea of where everything is located and make it easier to plan your time.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the very best things to do in Madeira:

Madeira’s capital, Funchal , is an attractive coastal city that is absolutely not to be missed when visiting the island. Rather compact in size, it offers a lot more than it might look at first sight and you can easily explore the main sights on foot.

Funchal is a city made for wandering with attractive black-and-white mosaic pavements, colonial-style buildings, and a busy marina. It is also a green city with colorful parks and gardens such as Monte Palace Tropical Garden and Madeira Botanical Gardens .

You’ll find a varied range of interesting and historical attractions including the Cathedral (Sé) , Santa Clara Convent , or the iconic wicker toboggan ride , one of the most popular tourist attractions in Madeira. Football fans will definitely want to visit Cristiano Ronaldo’s trophy museum CR7 , and if you like street art, be sure to check Rua de Santa Maria .

TIP: Try to time your visit to Funchal when there are no (or not too many) cruise ships in town. The small city gets very busy when there are several cruise ships in port for the day. You can usually find this information online by searching for ‘Funchal cruise ship dates’.

Good to know: We cover the main sights in and near the city in detail further below (many of them are really must-see and do in Madeira). In addition – if you are looking for a more comprehensive guide of just the city itself – take a look at our Funchal guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Funchal

2. Mercado dos Lavradores

Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ Market) is a lively local market located in central Funchal, just a short walk from the waterfront and the main sights. This traditional market is considered an absolute must-see in Madeira. And indeed, it’s a unique experience, so definitely check it out!

Built in 1938-1940 by a popular Portuguese architect Edmundo Tavares, the building is interesting to see in itself. The open, two-story market hall is built in art deco style and decorated with Portuguese azulejo tiles.

On the ground floor, you’ll find flower sellers in traditional dress and fruit stalls selling a myriad of colorful produce. On the top floor, there are dried fruit, vegetable, and spice stalls. If you visit early in the day, check out the fish market – Praça do Peixe – at the rear of the Farmer’s market. The two markets are interconnected by a wide staircase.

Good to know : Mercado dos Lavradores is open from morning to evening every day, except Sunday. On Saturday, it closes in the early afternoon. The absolute best days to visit are Fridays, and also Saturday morning.

TIP: Mercado Dos Lavradores is a great place to sample exotic and interesting foods, some so special that we hadn’t even seen them anywhere else before. However, if you wish to make large grocery purchases, prices are lower in neighboring supermarkets.

3. Cabo Girão

Located just near Funchal, Cabo Girão is one of the most popular places to see in Maderia. This is one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe towering 580 meters (1,900 ft) above sea level. The views from Miradouro do Cabo Girão on a clear day are spectacular, but what makes it even more special is the viewing platform itself.

In addition to the paved terrace, there’s also a suspended glass-floored platform jutting over the edge of the cliffs, Cabo Girao Skywalk . It’s really special to see the steep cliffs right under your feet! If you’re afraid of heights and rather not walk on the glass, you can just see it from the side.

Interesting fact: From the viewpoint, you can see small acres of land all the way at the bottom of the cliffs, by the sea. In the not-so-distant past, local farmers would descend down the cliffs in baskets to work on this land. Nowadays this dangerous undertaking is not worth the effort and the risk anymore.

Good to know: The viewing areas are free to enter but can get very busy when a coach tour arrives. In peak season, turnstiles at the entrance are used to control the number of people on the platforms. You may have to wait for your turn, but the views will be worth it.

TIP: Visit Cabo Girao early in the morning or in the evening. It will be quieter and easier to find parking in the limited space available. Plus, the roads around Cabo Girao are narrow and winding. If you are driving, you may not be at ease meeting a coach coming in the opposite direction!

Getting there: Cabo Girao is a 20-minute drive from Funchal. If you do not have a car, you can catch a public bus from Funchal which stops outside the entrance. The Funchal hop-on hop-off bus also has a stop here. Many organized tours that visit the inland or the western side of the island also stop here as well, and some boat tours pass underneath.

4. Câmara de Lobos

Another popular destination to visit in Madeira is the fishermen’s district of Câmara de Lobos , also just a 10-15 minutes drive from Funchal. This little picturesque harbor is one of the best places in Madeira where you can find an authentic feel of a small village. At the same time, it’s a lively place with some bars and cafés, and music on the weekends.

As you walk around the small waterfront area, you can usually see lots of colorful boats and sometimes also fish that is hung to dry. Traditionally, the fishermen go to the sea at night to catch swordfish and small-spotted catshark. During the day, you’ll see locals working on their boats, preparing fishing nets, and playing cards.

Be sure to check out Miradouro Winston Churchill , a nice viewpoint over the harbor where the Prime Minister of the UK liked to paint during his vacation in Madeira. He would have his Rolls Royce bring him to this viewpoint from the nearby Reid’s Palace Hotel , and then sit and paint the scenery here for hours. You can see a small plaque with an inscription that reads ‘here painted Winston Churchill in 1950’.

There is also a small 15th-century chapel – Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição – dating from the period when the island was first discovered.

Good to know: Câmara de Lobos can be easily reached from Funchal by car, but also with the hop-on-hop-off bus . Because of this, the village can sometimes get quite busy with tourists, especially in the high season and when there are lots of cruise ships in Funchal.

TIP: There are lots of cafes in town where you can have a drink or come for lunch. For good fresh fish and nice views, check out Restaurante Coral or Restaurante Praia do Vigário . Both are located by the ocean, on the western side of town. If you want to taste some traditional Madeira wine, head to Henriques & Henriques .

5. Ponta de São Lourenço

Madeira is famous for countless hiking possibilities. The Vereda da Ponta do São Lourenço is one of the most rewarding hikes with some truly breathtaking scenery.

While most hikes in Madeira are inland levada walks, the 8-km Ponta de São Lourenço hike is a coastal trail. This undulating route winds around the eastern peninsula near Caniçal and culminates at the spectacular Ponta Do Furado viewpoint.

The scenery here is absolutely stunning! And even if you just do the first part of the trail – up to Miradouro de São Lourenço viewpoint (+-20-30 minutes walk from the car) – it’s absolutely worth it.

Getting there : Ponta de São Lourenço is the easternmost point of Madeira island, located about half an hour drive from Funchal. There is a free car park at the start of the trail. If you don’t have a car, you can catch a bus. Alternatively, there are also some organized tours that can bring you here from Funchal.

TIP: Arrive early as the small car park fills up quickly and the narrow hiking paths get really busy. Bring drinks and snacks as there are no facilities on the hike. Also, prepare for lots of wind.

You can read more about this trail in our guide to the best hikes in Madeira .

6. Monte Cable Car

One of the most popular things to do in Madeira is visiting Monte village, located above the city of Funchal. And the best way to get there is by Monte Cable Car (Teleférico do Funchal).

There are several nice places to visit in Monte (more about them below), but the scenic cable car ride to the mountain is an attraction in itself. The views over the city and the harbor are truly spectacular.

The cable car covers a rather long distance and the ride takes about 15-20 minutes. So you have plenty of time to enjoy beautiful views of Funchal and its surroundings.

Practical information: Monte cable car operates daily from +- 9 AM to 5.45 PM (hours might differ in high season). Normally, you can just get the tickets on the spot as well. You can opt for a one-way ride, round-trip, or combination tickets with a cable car to Madeira Botanical Garden. For more practical information, please check the official website .

7. Jardim Tropical Monte Palace

Jardim Tropical Monte Palace is one of the nicest gardens in Madeira. Set around a former pleasure estate and later a luxury hotel Quinta Monte Palace (now a museum), the tropical gardens feature exotic plants from around the world alongside rare native species from Madeira island.

Created in the late 1980s by a local entrepreneur and art patron Joe Berardo, the gardens contain an eclectic mix of trees, flowers, but also fountains, ponds, waterfalls, azulejos , statues, and Japanese-themed gardens with pagodas and carp ponds… Modern sculptures and a large collection of 15-20th century tile panels depicting Portuguese history make a visit here even more interesting.

Monte Palace gardens are situated high above Funchal in the village of Monte. On a clear day, you can also see fantastic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

Getting there: The most popular – and highly recommended – way to travel to the gardens is by the above-mentioned Monte cable car. It connects Funchal city center with Monte and stops directly outside the garden entrance. You can also get here by car, but parking is practically impossible. Alternatively, you can take a taxi and there’s also a public bus.

Practical Information : The gardens are open daily the whole year, except on Christmas Day. Kids under 15 are free with a paying adult. For more information, see their website . Please note that the gardens are quite big and some paths can be slippery. So be prepared to walk and it’s best to wear sensible walking shoes.

TIP: You can get a cable car ticket one-way and return to the outskirts of Funchal on a traditional wicker toboggan from Monte (see below).

8. Traditional Wicker Toboggan

Toboggan ride in a wicker basket (aka Monte wicker basket sledges) is an old Madeira tradition dating to the end of the 19th – beginning of the 20th century. In the past, locals used it as a means of transport to quickly get from the village of Monte to Funchal. Nowadays it’s only used for tourist entertainment…

And indeed, a traditional wicker toboggan ride is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Madeira. Toboggans can seat two people (or three, if one of them is a child) and are steered by two runners, so you just sit and enjoy the crazy ride down the narrow streets.

Some people love it, others say it’s not worth the fuss, so I’ll leave it up to you to decide. One thing you can be sure of – it’s something truly unique that you can only do in Madeira and won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Practical information: Wicker toboggan ride starts by The Church of Our Lady of Monte, a short walk from the above-mentioned Jardim Tropical Monte Palace. You just pay a fixed price to the drivers and there’s no need to arrange anything in advance. The descent takes about 10 minutes and brings you to Livramento, so not all the way back to Funchal. From there, you’ll have to either walk to the town center or take a rather expensive taxi.

TIP: If you decide to go on the toboggan, be sure you visit everything you want to see in Monte first – that way you don’t want to have to walk back up the hill afterwards. Also, keep this in mind when deciding if you need a round-trip ticket for the cable car.

Good to know: There are organized excursions of Madeira island that also include Monte and the wicker toboggan experience in their itinerary. This is one of the best options – a half-day tour that visits the Nuns Valley, Monte, and includes a sleigh ride.

9. Jardim Botânico – Madeira Botanical Garden

Madeira Botanical Garden is another beautiful garden to visit in Madeira. Because it’s somewhat more complex to get to, it’s not nearly as busy as the above-mentioned Jardim Tropical Monte Palace.

This 5-hectare garden is home to thousands of plant species from all over the world, beautifully landscaped flower beds, an exotic bird park, and there’s also a small natural history museum as well.

The gardens are divided into zones such as the arboretum or medicinal plants. It’s a fascinating place to visit for botany enthusiasts as every plant is labeled. The gardens are worth visiting year-round but are at their most colorful in spring and in summer.

TIP: The most impressive (and most photographed) section is the geometric topiary garden, with colorful flowers and nice views over Funchal and its surroundings.

Practical Information: Madeira Botanical Garden is open every day except on Christmas, from 9 AM to 6 PM. Children under 6 are free. For more information, see this website .

Getting there : Jardim Botânico is located outside Funchal and you’ll need a car or a taxi in order to get there. Parking is available, although it will depend on how busy it is. Alternatively, you can also catch a public bus or a cable car from Monte .

10. Pico do Arieiro

Pico do Areeiro (or Pico do Arieiro) is one of Madeira’s highest mountains (1,818 m – 5,964 ft). Easily reachable by car, this is the most popular mountain peak to visit in Madeira. The road to the top is quite winding, but tour buses also come here, so it can get quite busy during the day.

From the parking lot, it’s just a short walk to the summit which offers fantastic views. It’s also a popular spot to watch the sunrise or sunset.

One of the nicest hikes in Madeira – Vereda do Areeiro – starts here and takes you to Pico Ruivo, the highest mountain on the island (more about it below). If you are looking for the best views in Madeira, it doesn’t get better than this!

This is a rather challenging, elevated trail of 7 km one way and 5.6 km back if you make a loop (so about 12-14 km in total depending on which route you choose). There are sheer drops on either side of the path so this hike is not for the faint-hearted.

TIP: You don’t have to do the entire hike in order to enjoy some of the best views. Even if you just walk 15-30 minutes from the car park, you’ll see some amazing scenery and magnificent views that made us feel as if we ended up on another planet. Hands-down, this is one of the best places to see in Madeira!

Getting there: You will need a car (or a tour) in order to get to Miradouro Pico do Arieiro. If you are driving, be sure to arrive early – the parking tends to fill up quickly. Alternatively, if you are not planning to do the entire hike, come here in the afternoon or for sunset.

TIP: If you don’t have a car – or if you want to do the entire hike without having to return to the same point – you can join one of the hiking tours from Funchal. They arrange transportation in such a way that you can just do the hike in one direction – it’s much more feasible and more enjoyable that way. This is the most popular and best-rated hiking tour that I recommend.

Practical information: There’s a small restaurant at Pico do Areeiro, but no facilities further on the trail. So if you are planning to do the hike, be sure to bring lots of snacks and water. Hiking shoes, sunscreen, and warm clothing are essential. There are tunnels on this hike so don’t forget to pack a flashlight. You can find a bit more info about this hike here .

11. Pico Ruivo

Pico Ruivo is the highest mountain in Madeira (1,862 m – 6,108 ft). It can only be reached on foot from the above-mentioned Pico do Areeiro. However, there is also a shorter trail – Vereda do Pico Ruivo – from Achada do Teixeira on the other side of the island.

The Vereda do Pico Ruivo is one of Madeira’s most famous and dramatic hiking trails. The path takes you amongst and above the clouds. On a sunny day, you are rewarded with 360-degree views from the summit. Be prepared for lots of steps and sudden weather changes here!

Practical information : The shortest trail to Pico Ruivo starts at the Achada do Teixeira car park. It’s about 2.8 km, 1.5 hours one-way, so about 3 hours in total. You can find more info about this trail in our Madeira hiking guide .

Getting there: You’ll need a car to get here. Alternatively, you can also come here as part of a hiking tour that includes transfers from/to Funchal . In case of a tour, you’ll do the hike one way and will see the earlier-mentioned Pico do Areeiro as well. It’s really the most efficient way to do this hike, so even if you are renting a car for the rest of your time in Madeira, I’d still consider doing a tour if you want to hike these two mountain peaks.

TIP: Bring warm clothing because there is a significant temperature drop at this altitude. Also, be sure to check the weather forecast for Pico Ruivo before setting out as it may be different from the rest of the island. Even if it’s sunny everywhere else, it’s possible that Pico Ruivo is in the clouds. If it’s above the clouds, it can be a very special experience too!

12. Natural Pools of Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz is a small town on Maderia’s northwest coast. It’s best known for its naturally formed volcanic swimming pools , one of the best places to go swimming in Madeira! And even if you’re not going for a swim, it’s a beautiful area to see, with a very impressive rough coastline. On a windy day, you could watch the waves here for hours…

This is one of the most popular places to visit in Madeira, included in all sightseeing tours that visit the western side of the island .

The seawater pools of Porto Moniz are filled by the rising tide so it’s quite possible that you’ll be swimming with fish here. Some of the best pools in towns have been adapted into a beautiful lido complex. These pools are more developed and safer, and they are also easier to access and swim in with children. Plus, the lido has toilets, changing rooms, and lifeguards on duty.

Swimming in a warm seawater pool with a dramatic volcanic backdrop is a unique experience. As a result, the pools get quite busy in the peak season.

Getting there: Porto Moniz is a one-hour drive from Funchal. As already mentioned, it’s also a popular stopping-off point on island day tours, but most tours will not foresee the time to swim here. This highly-rated tour foresees some time for a swim at Porto Moniz or at the nearby volcanic pools in Seixal (weather permitting, of course).

TIP: The natural pools can be too rough for swimming in bad weather, so be careful and don’t risk it if the waves are high. Also, if you visit the undeveloped pools, we recommend wearing water shoes to protect your feet from the basalt rocks.

Good to know: There’s a small aquarium in Porto Moniz – can be something nice to do if visiting Madeira with kids. Just a short ride from here, you can also find some of the nicest hidden gems of Madeira , such as Praia da Ribeira da Janela or Achadas da Cruz . So you could easily spend an entire day in this area.

13. Rabaçal Levada Hikes

Rabaçal valley in western Madeira is the most popular destination for those who want to do a typical levada walk in Madeira.

Good to know: Levadas are man-made irrigation channels built in order to supply water from the mountains to the communities by the sea. In order to maintain them, narrow paths were created next to levadas – these trails are now often used for hiking and bring you to some spectacular places in Madeira’s hilly interior.

There are several levada hikes starting from Rabaçal. The most popular include Levada das 25 Fontes and Levada do Risco . You can easily combine these two walks in one – that’s what most visitors do. You can find more info about this trail in our guide to the best hikes in Madeira .

If you are looking for some easy hiking in Madeira, Rabaçal levada trails are perfect. It’s also ideal for families as the trail is relatively flat. Expect some really nice scenery, shaded forest paths following levadas , tunnels, and – the main feature of these two hikes – impressive waterfalls. But the paths can also be muddy and slippery, especially after rainfall.

Getting there: Rabaçal car park is located on the road ER110, about 50 minutes drive from Funchal or 40 minutes from Porto Moniz. You will need to self-drive, take a taxi or join a tour in order to get here.

Good to know: Lots of tour groups come here because the hike is quite easy, very rewarding, and doesn’t require much time. So it’s a place included in many day tours , and some cruise ship excursions come here as well. All this also means that it can get VERY busy here during the day. If you can, try to arrive early in the morning, or go on a small group tour.

TIP: Check the weather forecast for this area before you set off. It may be sunny and warm on the coast but you may find dense fog and rain by the time you reach Rabaçal. It was sunny when we started our hike here and half an hour later we were hiking in the mist, so you never really know.

14. Whale and Dolphin Watching

The Atlantic waters around Madeira are a fantastic location for whale and dolphin watching . Whales and dolphins can be seen all year round in Madeira. Plus, unlike other destinations, you do have to travel far from the shore to see them.

Depending on the season, there are 2-3 species of whales and over 20 different species of dolphins in the waters around Madeira. The best time to see whales in Madeira is in the summer season, from April till October-November. But – no matter when you visit, your chances of seeing at least some dolphins are really good. Also, Pilot Whales and Sperm Whales can be seen at any time of the year.

So it will come as no surprise that whale- and dolphin-watching tours are among the most popular things to do in Madeira. There are so many tour operators running whale watching tours in Madeira that competition is high and so the prices are really affordable. You can choose to travel on a speedboat, catamaran, or a larger ferry depending on your interests and budget.

Practical information: Most tours depart from Funchal Marina or Calheta and take 2-3 hours. While you can usually find a tour on the day itself, you might have to wait a few hours for the next available option. Also, there are so many ticket kiosks that the choice is overwhelming, and it’s really difficult to compare what you get…

TIP: We highly recommend doing some research and booking your tour in advance ! That way you can choose the boat type that you like, check group sizes, see if there are any age limits, and if there are bathroom facilities or food/drinks onboard if that’s important to you. Furthermore, by booking online, you can easily compare prices, check the starting times, and choose the best tour for you and your family.

Our experience: For our own trip, we booked this speedboat tour , despite the higher price compared to the more popular catamaran trips . We chose the speedboat for several reasons – our kids love it, we never get seasick on a speedboat, and these boats travel faster and usually get closer to the animals.

LEARN MORE: Dolphin and Whale Watching in Madeira

15. Madeira Wine

You cannot visit Madeira without sampling the sweet fortified Madera – Madeira wine for which the island is famous. Its production is comparable to sherry or port wines, so Madeira wine is quite strong.

Several wine producers offer wine tasting in Madeira, including Pereira d’Oliveira in Funchal (one of the oldest traditional wineries) or Henriques & Henriques in Câmara de Lobos .

If you want to take a Madeira winery tour, visit Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal . Blandy’s is one of the largest, and oldest, wine producers on Madeira. They run 45-min tours almost daily, and they are quite affordable. At the end of a tour, you get to taste some Madeira wine. On their website , you can find more information about the tours they offer.

TIP: There are also really nice food & wine tours in Funchal . Not only do you get to try some of the best wines, but also taste some traditional dishes, and you also see more of the city. It’s something really nice to do in Madeira, especially for adults! In addition, there are tours that take you to local wineries and vineyards outside the city.

16. Curral Das Freiras (Nuns Valley)

Curral Das Freiras (aka Nuns Valley) is another place that many consider a must-see in Madeira. Due to its proximity to the capital, Curral Das Freiras is a very popular destination for cruise ship day-trippers and is also part of many organized day tours of the island .

This dramatic valley in the mountainous interior of Madeira was formed inside the crater of an extinct volcano. It’s surrounded by vertical hillsides and was in the past only accessible by steep mountain paths. Nowadays, there’s a tunnel that makes the valley much more accessible. Still, some of the roads in this area are not for the faint-hearted.

When the French pirates attacked the island in 1566, the rich Santa Clara Convent in Funchal was one of the main targets. The nuns fled into this valley deep in the mountains, where they were safe and had plenty of space for their cattle to graze. Thus the name, which literally means ‘corral – or stable – of the nuns’.

You can visit the village in the valley or simply stop to enjoy the views at the Miradouro Eira do Serrado . From the car park, it is a short walk along paved paths to reach the viewpoint. If you do not plan to hike any levada trails, this is a good location to see some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Madeira.

Good to know: Many tour groups stop at this viewpoint and this is a very touristy place, with a big hotel, a restaurant, and souvenir vendors. If you want to spend more time exploring the area (including the Pico do Areeiro nearby), then it might be interesting to stay at the Eida do Serrado Hotel for a few nights. This would also save you quite some driving on the steep inland roads.

To enjoy tranquil views away from the crowds, you can hike from Eira do Serrado down into the village. However, the view remains pretty much the same as what you see on top. The trail takes about 1 hour (and you can take a bus or a taxi back up). Good hiking shoes are recommended!

TIP: Curral Das Freiras is known for its chestnut specialties – from soup to cakes and even chestnut liqueur. You can try some of these at the local shops, cafes, and restaurants in the village.

Getting there : The Valley Of the Nuns is just 20 km from Funchal. If you drive, be prepared for hairpin bends and sheer roadside drops. You can also catch a bus from the city center or come with a tour. If there’s no space at the car parking at the viewpoint, just wait a few minutes – most people don’t stay here that long.

TIP: The nearby Miradouro do Paredão and several other viewpoints located along a very steep mountain road in the direction of Pico do Areeiro, also offer nice views minus the crowds. If you have a car, be sure to check out this road as well!

17. São Vicente Caves & Volcanism Center

São Vicente is a small seaside town on Madeira’s north coast. It’s best known for the Grutas de São Vicente , one of the popular tourist attractions in Madeira.

Even if you have seen many underground caves before, these are quite unique and worth a visit. The caves are not limestone caves but enormous lava tubes . They were formed by volcanic eruptions nearly 900,000 years ago.

You can explore 1,000 meters of underground tubes on a guided tour. After your tour, visit the on-site Volcanism Center to learn about how the caves and Madeira island were formed.

Practical information: Sao Vicente Caves are normally open daily except on Mondays. You don’t need to pre-book and can normally just join the next tour when you arrive. For more up-to-date info, please check their website . There is also free parking, toilets, a shop, and a cafe on site.

Getting there: You’ll need a car to visit here. It takes about 30 minutes to drive to Sao Vicente from Funchal.

TIP: Sao Vicente Caves are a good attraction to visit on a rainy day in Madeira. It is also a cooling option to escape to on a hot summer’s day. Also, if you are in town, check out some local restaurants by the sea. We were recommended Restaurante Caravela and ended up driving up there a few times during our holiday. It’s a no-thrills local place that serves some of the best fish and limpets we had in Madeira.

18. Santana Traditional Houses

Santana’s traditional houses are among the most-photographed places in Madeira. These are the brightly colored, triangular-shaped, thatched-roof houses that you have likely seen on postcards and Madeira travel guides.

There are several publically-accessible houses in the center of Santana town on the north coast, and they are free to visit. During the day, you can buy some local products and souvenirs here. There’s also a small tourist information center. But even if the houses are closed, you’re not missing much – they are most impressive from the outside.

Good to know: You only need a few minutes here, and that makes Santana a popular stop on your way to/from Pico Ruivo (the highest peak of Madeira mentioned higher) or to Parque Florestal das Queimadas (see below). It’s not really a place you want to drive to just for itself – the drive is really long for such a short visit. So it’s best to combine Santana with some other interesting places in northeastern Madeira.

TIP: You can learn more about these houses and about the history and culture of the island at the Madeira Theme Park (Parque Temático da Madeira) , a 10-minute walk or a few minutes drive from Santana. The park is open every day except Mondays.

This is not a rollercoaster ride theme park. Instead, it has four sections charting the geology, history, and culture of Madeira. There are playgrounds, pretty gardens, traditional craft displays and a boating lake. It is a fun, affordable place and especially fun for families looking for something nice to do in Madeira with kids.

Getting there: Santana can best be visited by car, and most east-Madeira tours also include a short stop here. There’s a big parking garage just nearby, but it can get really busy here. So parking might be an issue if you come at the time when tours visit. For that, it’s best to visit early or late in the day.

19. Queimadas Forest Park

Queimadas Forest Park is one of the nicest places to see in northern Madeira. And it can easily be combined with visiting Santana’s traditional houses (mentioned above).

This otherworldly and wild-romantic park contains the last remaining Laurissilva trees on Madeira. As a result, it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are lots of other plants here too, and the park is at its nicest in spring when rhododendrons and azaleas are in full bloom. The area can be explored via a network of idyllic woodland trails that are suitable for all ages.

Queimadas Forest Park is also the starting point for several levada hikes with great views over Madeira’s northern coastline. One of the best levada hikes in Madeira – Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike – also starts here.

Levada do Caldeirão Verde trail winds for over 6 km through the Sao Jorge valley, culminating in the 100-meter high Caldeirão Verde waterfall. Be prepared for muddy paths, dark tunnels, and incredible scenery.

Getting there: The forest is a one-hour drive north of Funchal. If you don’t have a car and want to visit here, there are also plenty of nice tours that come here and also do the above-mentioned hike.

TIP: Avoid coming here on the weekends since the place is very popular with the locals. Lots of families come to spend a day at the park, bring a BBQ, etc.

Practical Information : There is a cafe and toilets at the entrance to the park, close to the traditional-style thatched houses (that serve as vacation accommodation for the employees of the forest service). There is a car park on-site that was recently expanded and at the moment costs 3 EUR (and the machines only take cash). Alternatively, you can park at the nearby Pico das Pedras parking lot, a short walk away.

20. Balcões Viewpoint & Ribeiro Frio

Just north of Funchal in Madeira’s steep interior is another popular place to visit – Ribeiro Frio . It is a scenic, mountainous area best known for its trout farm and as the starting point for multiple levada hikes.

One of the most popular hikes in Madeira – Vereda dos Balcões – can be found here. Its popularity is simple to explain – it’s one of the easiest and shortest hikes in Madeira offering fantastic views. It’s also just a really nice – albeit muddy – walk through a beautiful forest.

This easy, flat, 0.5-1 hr hike is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The trail offers incredible views particularly at the Balcoes viewpoint at the end of the trail. On a clear day, you will be able to see Madeira’s three highest peaks, Pico do Arieiro, Pico Ruivo, and Pico das Torres.

This trail is gentle and is a spectacular introduction to hiking in Madeira. It is also a good location to see native vegetation and bird species such as the Trocaz pigeon.

Getting there: You can get here by car or by bus from Funchal. It’s just about 18km from the city, but the roads are really narrow and winding, so count at least 40-45 minutes to get here. Parking next to the road can be a bit challenging to find, so – depending on where you find a spot – the hike can get twice as long. This popular east-island tour includes this hike and a visit to the trout farm at Ribeiro Frio in their itinerary.

TIP: As this is a very accessible and popular location, it gets very busy in peak season. Visit early in the morning and on a clear day to enjoy the best views.

21. Porto Santo Day Trip

Located about 75 km northeast of Madeira, the island of Porto Santo is a popular place to visit if you are spending a longer vacation in Madeira and have plenty of time.

The island is smaller, flatter and more arid than Madeira. However, it does have something that Madeira lacks – long, golden, sandy beaches . In fact, Porto Santo has 9km of sandy beaches. Additionally, as the beaches are rich in calcium and magnesium, they are reputed to have therapeutic properties.

You can spend a day at the beach, go snorkeling , or book a kayaking tour at the stunning Calheta Beach in Porto Santo.

If sunbathing and swimming in crystal clear warm water is not for you, then you can also book a tour and explore this 11km long island with a 4×4. Alternatively, wander the streets of the capital Vila Baleira, and visit the home of Christopher Columbus. Climb the 517-meter Pico do Facho, the highest peak on the island, or visit the Palm Tree Farm (Quinta das Palmeiras).

Getting there: You can fly to Porto Santo in 15 minutes from Funchal’s Cristiano Ronaldo airport. Alternatively, it’s a 2.5-hour ferry crossing each way. Boats for Porto Santo depart from Funchal Marina and you should definitely book in advance (see the website of the ferry company for more info).

Good to know: While Porto Santo can be a nice vacation destination in itself, it is possible to visit the island on a day trip from Madeira, also if you take a boat. There’s usually a ferry from Funchal early in the morning and a ferry back late in the evening.

TIP: If you want to visit the island, but find it overwhelming to plan a day trip, check out this highly-rated day tour . It includes the ferry and sightseeing on the island.

22. Special Events & Festivals in Madeira

Whenever you visit Madeira, the chances are big that there will be a festival happening somewhere. They really have a party for everything – from surfing to running, traditional celebrations devoted to all kinds of saints, to festivals dedicated to onions, tuna, sugarcane, or trout, to name just a few…

The largest annual events on Madeira include the lively Carnival in February, the Flower Festival in May, the colorful Festival of Popular Saints in June, and Madeira Day on July 1st.

Foodies will enjoy small, regional food festivals, such as the Cherry Festival in Câmara do Lobos in June or the Apple Festival in Calheta in September.

The most popular festivals are the Madeira Flower Festival, Madeira Wine Festival, and New Year’s Eve .

Madeira Flower Festival is usually held in May and lasts a few weeks. Expect parades of floats adorned with flowers and floral carpets on the streets. There are free public displays of traditional music and dancing. The highlight of the festival is the Children’s Parade during which the children construct a floral ‘wall of hope’.

Madeira Wine Festival is held at the time of the harvest, at the end of August – early September. The festival usually spans several weeks culminating with the Wine Harvest Festival at Estreito de Câmara de Lobos.

Madeira’s New Year’s Eve festivities attract visitors from around the world. At midnight, a spectacular 8-minute-long fireworks display is launched from 50 different locations around Funchal. If you want to party or just see some amazing fireworks, Madeira is a great place to be at New Year’s.

Good to know: Madeira gets very busy during festivals, particularly around Christmas/ New Year’s Eve. Be sure to book accommodation and tours in advance.

Additional recommendations for things to do in Madeira

As already mentioned, I don’t want to overwhelm you with too many options of places to see and things to do in Madeira. So in our article, we tried to focus on the most popular sights and activities.

However, if you have all those covered and/or are looking for some more ideas on what to see in Madeira, here are a few additional recommendations:

• Fun outdoor activities. Madeira has a lot to offer for those looking for a more active vacation as well. From hiking , biking , surfing or bodyboarding , to adventurous canyoning tours or fun 4×4 excursions , there’s plenty to do in Madeira to keep you busy no matter your interests!
• Seixal. This is a small community with a nice black-sand beach and some natural volcanic pools on the north coast of Madeira. If you are looking for a quieter alternative to the popular Porto-Moniz, this can be a good option.
• Camacha , aka the basket weaving capital of Madeira. This place is often mentioned as one of the must-sees in Madeira and many tours like to visit here. However, its main attraction Café Relógio with a wicker museum and weaving demonstrations seems to have closed permanently. You can still visit Camacha Wicker Factory, but it’s just a small, low-key shop where you can see a traditional basket weaving demonstration and buy some woven items (if you have the space in your luggage).
• Madeira Whale Museum (Museu da Baleia da Madeira) in Calheta. This is a small but well-done museum where you can see some cool whales and learn more about Madeira’s whaling history.
• Posto Florestal Fanal . This is an ancient laurel forest in northwestern Madeira. It looks very special and mystical in the fog. If you can catch this place when the clouds are low, it has a really unique atmosphere that many find worth the long drive.
• Madeira’s north coast. If you have some extra time and don’t mind some winding roads, drive the entire northern coast of Madeira. The views are really worth it!
• Paul da Serra. This is Madeira’s interior that you can explore by driving the road ER110. There are some really nice viewpoints here, such as Miradouro da Bica da Cana or Miradouro Molinas.
• … There are more villages, viewpoints, coastal areas, and mountain roads that might be worth seeing in Madeira if you have even more time. But the above list should keep you busy for a week or two. If you’re looking for some nice off-the-beaten-path places, be sure to also check our guide to some lesser-known places in Madeira that we found worth visiting.

LEARN MORE: Hidden Gems of Madeira

How to get to Madeira

Madeira is an island so the best way to get here is by plane. Most likely, you’ll have to make a connection in Lisbon, but there are also direct flights from many other European destinations, especially in the high season.

If you are looking for direct flights or want to minimize the number of stopovers, TAP Air Portugal is the main airline for flights to Madeira.

How much time do you need & how to plan your time

As you can see, there’s enough to see and do in Madeira to easily fill a few weeks… If you can, we recommend planning at least 7-10 days for Madeira – this will give you enough time to see all the main sights without having to rush and do the best hikes.

If you have 1-4 days in Madeira and want to see as much as possible in a short time, the best way to do this is by basing yourself in the capital city Funchal and taking some organized tours. The most popular tours that cover Madeira’s top sights usually focus on either the eastern side of the island or on the west coast attractions .

If you have more time , I advise renting a car and visiting some of the musts in Madeira at a slower pace. In 3-4 days, you should be able to cover most of the main sights. But if you want to not just see, but actually explore all the most beautiful places in Madeira and do some hiking, you’ll really need at least 5-7 days on the island. That’s if you want to keep it somewhat more relaxed and enjoyable and not have to rush everywhere.

Where to stay

If you don’t rent a car , stay in Funchal. It has the best transport connections and most organized tours start here. Some of the nicest resorts like Pestana CR7 , Savoy Palace , and many others are located on the western side of the city. But there are many nice hotels and accommodations in the old town as well (such as The Vine Hotel or Hotel Cathedral , etc.). It really depends on what kind of vacation you’re planning.

If you have a car , you could make a sort of a road trip and stay at 2-3 different places on the island. However, the distances aren’t big and it’s not really necessary. If you pick just one base location, I advise staying on the south coast .

In the south, pretty much anywhere between Caniço and Calheta Beach (this is where we stayed) is good. But if you want to be able to quickly get everywhere, then again the area around Funchal and close to the highway is one of the best places to be.

Our experience: We stayed in Calheta and it’s a really nice area, with a small waterfront promenade, a small beach, and several nice restaurants nearby. It was easy enough to get anywhere we wanted from here, although driving to the east coast or Pico Ruivo could get a bit long if it was busy around Funchal.

On another trip, my parents stayed in Ponta Delgada on the north coast (not to be confused with Ponta Delgada in the Azores !). They liked the location as well and found it easy enough to travel everywhere from there because of the convenient tunnel that connects the northern coast with the south.

So, this is our guide to visiting Madeira. I hope that it gives you a better idea of what to expect and helps you plan an amazing trip!

If you are interested in more destinations in Portugal (mainland and also the Azores), be sure to also check our Portugal travel guide for a variety of destinations, itineraries, and travel tips.

Have a great time in Madeira!

Some travel inspiration for Madeira and the Azores:

• Best Things to Do in Funchal
• Whale Watching in Madeira
• Achadas da Cruz, Madeira
• Best Things to Do in Sao Miguel, Azores
• Sete Cidades, Azores
• Furnas, Azores
• Where to Stay on Sao Miguel Island in the Azores

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Some travel inspiration for central Portugal:

• Best Towns to See in Portugal
• Portugal 10-days Itinerary
• Best Things to Do in Lisbon
• Best Day Trips from Lisbon
• One Day in Lisbon
• Best Things to Do in Sintra
• Sintra Itinerary & Tips for Your Visit
• Portugal with Kids
• What to See in Nazare

Algarve travel guides:

• Best Things to Do in Algarve
• Algarve Itinerary
• Best Towns in Algarve
• Best Beaches in Algarve
• Benagil Cave
• Ponta da Piedade
• Best Things to Do in Lagos
• Best Things to Do in Albufeira
• Best Things to Do in Faro
• Best Things to Do in Tavira
• Best Things to Do in Sagres
• Where to Stay in Algarve

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Sunday 25th of June 2023

Thanks for all of this info! SO helpful!! We are going for 2 weeks in early October and I have been doing a lot of research. This post has so much info all in one spot, appreciate all the details! We cannot wait to go, it has been a desired destination for years for us! Thanks again!

Monday 26th of June 2023

Glad to help, Melissa. Have a wonderful time in Madeira!

Saturday 20th of May 2023

Thanks for the article, looks a great place, we are going for 10 days in August

Monday 22nd of May 2023

Happy to help, Steve. Some tips for August: start your days early (not just for the heat but also to avoid the biggest crowds) and be sure to use plenty of sunscreen. Have a great trip!

Tuesday 21st of March 2023

Great Article. One of the best available!

Thank you for your kind feedback, Alina. Have a great time in Madeira!

Giorgiana Ignat

Wednesday 22nd of February 2023

Thank you for all the information. Very useful and planning to do all the things that you suggested in my trip to madeira in June. Can you recomend a car rental in madeira?

@Jurga, Thank you!!!! Happy travel!

Hi Giorgiana, nowadays, we always use this website for car rental. Have a great trip!

Siony F. Besaña

Tuesday 17th of January 2023

I love the information I read in this site. It's very informative. Thank you, very useful.

Thursday 19th of January 2023

Glad to hear that, Siony. Have a great time in Madeira!

Is Madeira Worth Visiting? 16 Reasons Why Madeira Belongs On Your Bucket List

So you want to know whether Madeira is worth visiting, eh? My answer is simple: yes, yes, a thousand times YES! The End.

Just kidding. This would be a rubbish blog post if I left it at that, wouldn’t it?

In all seriousness, there’s a very good reason (actually 16 of them) why I’ve travelled to Madeira over half a dozen times by now. Read on for why I think you should consider adding Madeira to your bucket list .

16 Very Good Reasons To Visit Madeira

1. madeira is called ‘the hawaii of europe’ for a reason.

Madeira is often nicknamed ‘The Hawaii of Europe’ – and there’s a very good reason for this.

There are actually a lot of similarities between Madeira and Hawaii . Having visited and loved both archipelagos, a few things stick out in our minds.

To start with, both Madeira and Hawaii are very mountainous green islands. Perfect for nature lovers !

Also, the islands were formed in the same way as each other through volcanic rock many, many years ago. This has resulted in the mountainous green landscapes we can enjoy today when visiting.

You can also find black sand beaches on both Madeira and the islands of Hawaii . In Madeira, you’ll find a black sand beach in Seixal, while Punaluʻu Beach on The Big Island is a popular one to visit in Hawaii.

With all this said, if you can’t quite afford a trip to Hawaii, consider Madeira as the next best destination.

2. There are many stunning landscapes to admire in Madeira

Of course, an island that’s nicknamed ‘The Hawaii of Europe’ must be beautiful. In a word, Madeira is stunning.

Here, you can look forward to beautiful ocean views, waterfalls, forests, views from the top of mountains and clifftops – and much, much more.

READ NEXT: 18 Unmissable Things To Do in Madeira

3. You can enjoy lots of amazing hikes

If you love the outdoors as much as we do, then Madeira is a fantastic destination for you because you can look forward to admiring the beautiful landscapes we’ve already mentioned while on an amazing hike.

Many of the most popular hikes in Madeira follow the Levadas. If you don’t know what a Levada is, then it’s a type of irrigation channel or “mini-canal”, which carries water from one part of the island to another.

Some of our favourite hikes and walks in Madeira include:

• Levada do Caniço in Camacha  (approx 20 minutes east of Funchal)
• Levada do Norte near Quinta Grande  (approx 20 minutes west of Funchal)
• Levada do Caniçal near Machico  (approx 30 minutes from Funchal)
• Levada dos Maroços near Machico  (approx 30 minutes from Funchal)
• Levada do Furado in the Ribeiro Frio National Park  (approx 35 minutes north of Funchal)
• 25 Fontes & Levada do Risco near Rabaçal (approx 1 hour northwest of Funchal)

4. You can walk above the clouds in Madeira

Speaking of incredible hikes and walks, you can also look forward to walks above the clouds in Madeira.

This is another thing Madeira and Hawaii have in common. In Hawaii, you can drive to the top of Mauna Kea on The Big Island to take in the views from above the clouds.

While in Madeira, you can look forward to this type of walk at Levada do Barreiro near Pico do Areeiro.

5. Madeira is nicknamed ‘The Island of Eternal Spring’ for a reason

Throughout the year, Madeira’s average temperature remains relatively consistent – whether you travel in January, May, September or any other month, to be honest.

This means Madeira is a fantastic destination to visit any time of the year – whether you want a winter sun destination, a warm summer retreat, or an autumn getaway.

Some days might be more rainy than others, but for the most part, the temperatures should be spring-like year-round.

My first few trips to Madeira were at the end of February for a bit of winter sun. Some days would be overcast, but for the most part, I was in my swimming gear sitting by the pool.

In later years, I started going in June and it was much warmer but also busier. On my next trip to Madeira later this year, I plan on going in the spring months. So I look forward to experiencing that next.

READ NEXT: When Is The Best Time To Visit Madeira?

6. Madeira’s weather keeps you on your toes

Despite Madeira’s spring-like temperatures, the weather is still unpredictable. Thanks in large part to its mountainous terrain.

Don’t be surprised if you drive 30 minutes down the road and leave bright sunshine behind and discover rain or even fog.

Personally, I love the changing weather because it adds an element of surprise to your trip – and allows you to adapt your itinerary to suit what the weather’s doing at the time.

READ NEXT: 7 Days in Madeira Itinerary (No Car Hire Required!)

7. Madeira is a suitable destination for both short and long trips

Madeira is a small island, making it suitable for both short and long trips. The island is only 459 square miles (roughly 35 miles long and 13 miles wide).

If you really wanted to, you could see the most remote parts of the island in a couple of days – especially if you join coach tours .

But the great thing about being such a small island is that Madeira is good for both short and long trips.

If you only have a few days to spare , you can still see some amazing sights in Madeira. And if you’re able to spend a week or two there , then you’ll have a more relaxed experience and more chance to discover some hidden gems.

Madeira, in many ways, offers a lot of variety for different types of tourists. It’s one of those destinations that’s universal and has something for everyone.

READ NEXT: How Many Days in Madeira is Ideal (+ Itinerary Suggestions)

8. It’s quiet and NOT a party island!

That said, Madeira is NOT a party island. It’s quiet – unlike some of its cousins. And when I say cousin, I mean this figuratively rather than literally.

Although Madeira has become more popular over the years, it’s still a considerably lesser-known destination compared to some of its European counterparts such as the Canary Islands and Mediterranean islands.

In the past, Madeira has been known as somewhere for older people to frequent, but it’s losing that label more and more over the years.

More people in their 20s and 30s are visiting Madeira for all of the things that we’ve mentioned so far: the amazing hikes, the beautiful landscapes, the warm temperatures and everything else that we love about Madeira.

But it’s still not a party island. It’s not somewhere that you go to for clubbing or all-night drinking.

It’s somewhere where you go for nature and outdoor adventures, delicious food in a restaurant and relaxing poolside days. That means it’s perfect for people like you and me who want to experience the outdoors and day trips without a hangover.

9. Madeira is a must for nature lovers

Given Madeira is such a fertile island (thanks to its association with volcanoes) it shouldn’t come as a surprise that there are some amazing botanical gardens that you can visit in Madeira.

The two noteworthy ones are the Madeira Botanical Garden near Funchal where you can appreciate gardens with an ocean view.

But my absolute favourite is the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, which is home to three tiers of gardens spread across 70,000 square metres. I particularly love the Japanese garden here.

Speaking of botanical gardens, flowers and plants, Madeira is also known for the Bird of Paradise flower, which is one of my favourite tropical flowers. You can find them growing in abundance across the island – particularly if you visit during the spring or early summer months .

10. No matter what time of year you visit Madeira, you can enjoy an epic festival

Throughout the year, the capital city of Funchal is also known for its many amazing festivals. Some of the most popular ones are:

• Madeira Flower Festival:  Usually in April or May. It’s dedicated to – you guessed it – flowers!
• Madeira Carnival:  Usually in February. Watch as Funchal explodes with colour!
• Atlantic Festival:  Usually in June every year. You can look forward to live music and fireworks.
• Madeira Wine Festival:  Often in March, but not every year. This is a great time to sample the local wine!
• Christmas & New Year festivities:  Throughout December, you can enjoy lots of festivities to celebrate Christmas and ring in the new year. 

READ NEXT: 20 Best Things To Do in Funchal, Madeira

11. Madeira celebrates its heritage

Speaking of festivals, Madeira also celebrates its heritage through its various festivals. You’ll often see the locals wearing traditional Madeiran outfits in red, black and yellow.

Not only this, but many of the best souvenirs from Madeira relate to the island’s heritage and traditions in some way, such as embroidery and wickerwork.

12. You’re pretty much guaranteed to see dolphins near the island

There aren’t too many places in the world where, if you go on a dolphin-watching tour , you can pretty much guarantee that you’ll see dolphins.

But in Madeira, there are lots of dolphins around because the water is so clean and so warm. I’ve been on lots of dolphin-watching tours in Madeira and I’ve seen dolphins every single time.

In some cases, the dolphins were so used to us that they would come and scratch their fins along the side of the catamaran. It was very interesting to see!

13. The flight to and from Madeira is… interesting!

If you’re a nervous flyer, then Madeira might not be the best destination for you because both arriving on and leaving the island via plane is… interesting.

The runway is relatively short (it’s 2781 metres long) and at least 1000 metres of it juts out into the water on top of stilts. It actually used to be as short as 1600 metres, but they extended it to make it safer.

There are also cars parked beneath the runway, so some people describe the flight as a bit like landing on top of an aircraft carrier. It’s certainly a memorable experience!

Because of this, it takes specially trained pilots to do the takeoffs and landings in Madeira, so not all airlines fly to Funchal.

In my case, Madeira was the first destination I ever flew to, so I got used to interesting flights early on. But I appreciate to some, it might be a little (or very!) nerve-wracking.

14. Madeira is a fantastic foodie destination

I’m not much of a foodie myself, but I have to say that Madeira has some of the best food I’ve ever eaten on vacation.

My personal favourite is swordfish, washed down with a glass of Poncha, which is a Madeiran speciality made from sugar cane juice, honey, sugar and orange juice.

But there are lots of other incredible foods to enjoy in Madeira as well, such as:

• Espada Fish:  The Black Scabbardfish aka Espada Fish looks terrifying when you see it at a market, but it tastes delicious!
• Espetata:  Succulent beef cubes on a skewer; usually chargrilled.
• Pastel de Nata:  A traditional Portuguese custard tart.
• Madeira Wine: Wine has been produced locally in Madeira since as far back as the 15th century, so sampling the local wine is a must while you’re here.
• Madeira Honey Cake:  Unlike the Madeira cake you’ve likely seen in supermarkets back home, real Madeira cake is dark in colour and is made with honey from local sugar cane.

15. Who needs rollercoasters when you’ve got toboggans?

Where else can you zip down a hill in a wicker toboggan ?

In Madeira, this was a traditional way to get down the steep mountainous hills. The toboggans are traditionally made from wicker and two men stand on the back to control the brakes and steering.

Today, it’s more of a tourist attraction, but it’s fun. Head to Monte via the cable car and come back down the hill on a toboggan. It’s fun, thrilling and an interesting way to get around ! Who needs rollercoasters, eh?

READ NEXT: How To Get Around Madeira (With & Without A Car)

16. Madeira is relatively cheaper than its European counterparts

Despite Madeira becoming more popular over the years, it’s still relatively cheaper to visit than many other similar European destinations, including places like Tenerife and popular Mediterranean islands. Probably because Madeira is still largely undiscovered compared to some of the more famous European islands.

Read More About Madeira

I hope you agree that Madeira is well worth visiting – especially if you love nature and the outdoors.

So, if you’d like to read more about Madeira, then we have lots of travel blogs for you to check out. Here’s our full list of articles about Madeira . Alternatively, here are some blog posts you can read right now:

• When Is The Best Time To Visit Madeira?
• How Many Days in Madeira is Ideal (+ Itinerary Suggestions)
• 18 Unmissable Things To Do in Madeira
• How To Get Around Madeira (With & Without A Car)

Of course, if you also have questions we’ve not already covered, then please feel free to leave us a comment down below or send us an email. We’ll be happy to help!

Did you like this list of reasons to visit Madeira? Why not share this blog post with a loved one or friend now and convince them to come with you?

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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• 10 Reasons to Visit Madeira Island

Madeira is the perfect holiday destination all year around, a tropical island offering amazing scenery, wonderful beaches and quaint villages. The archipelago has been awarded leading Island Destination of Europe in 2013, 2014, 2015 and recently, in 2016, as the Leading Island Destination of the WORLD !

Madeira Island is an exciting island with many attractions, sights and activities. With so much to do and see, it's hard to narrow down the long list, but below you will find our 10 reasons to visit Madeira.

1 - Unique Landscapes

The island is a real work of art and it seems like Mother Nature really gave it her best when she hand-crafted this destination. There are plenty of landscapes on the island that will take your breath away like the levadas, the Laurissilva Forest, Cabo Girao skywalk, Porto Moniz Natural Pools, Porto Santo beach, nature reserves, the highest peaks and many more to see and explore!

Madeira Island's Nature is one of its biggest tourist attractions. Madeira is rich in biodiversity of endemic Fauna and Flora species, classified as a World Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO. The Laurel Forest (Laurissilva) covers 15,000 ha, 12,000 of which are nature reserve and full of Hiking Tours to explore!

3 - Levadas

Levadas are small irrigation channels that can be found in Madeira Island and La Palma, in the Canary Islands. This term is also applied to other channels, usually smaller ones that direct the water to watermills. The Madeira Island levadas network allows for spectacular walks, sometimes through relatively easy paths, others through tunnels or walking several minutes on the edge of a cliff. Due to the popularity of these walks, an effort has been made to classify the various paths, from accessible to beginners, even the most difficult, lengthy and possibly dangerous.

This allows any hiking enthusiast to explore alone, with some caution. But there are also companies with monitors and mountain guides, specialized in this type of activity. You can book here your Levada Walks and Hiking Tours with certified guides here .

4 - Laurissilva Forest

Laurissilva is the name given to a type of humid subtropical forest, made up mainly of trees from the lauraceae family and widespread in the Macaronesia - a region which includes the archipelagos of Madeira, the Azores, the Canaries and Cape Verde.

Developing between 300 and 1300 m of altitude, the Madeira Island Laurel Forest “Laurissilva” is a replica of the forests that covered much of Europe until the last glaciation. Classified by UNESCO as a Natural Heritage site, it is the largest bay forest in the world. True enchanted forests and filled with secrets, it has enormous biological diversity.

5 - Outdoor Activities

Try some Madeira Outdoor Activities during your stay on the island. Moreover, the islands are well known for its mild climate throughout the year, its rare nature, majestic scenery, spectacular mountains. With such diverse and magnificent natural spaces, you can choose a more calm activity, or awaken your wild side with some extreme sports.

From mountains to farmland, forests, subtropical fauna and indigenous species, the island is truly a garden that invites you to practice numerous Madeira Outdoor Activities. Discover and BOOK all the Outdoor Activities you can do during your holidays in Madeira Island here .

There is so much to do and see during your Madeira Holidays, and it's such a great place as it has the best of both worlds: from the inland walks and canyoning exploring in the mountains, to the fantastic whale watching or swimming with dolphins. And if you’re a mountain biker you’ll simply love the trails you’ll hit in Madeira!

Madeira is proud to present a wide range of diverse, regional, Portuguese and international events that are staged throughout the year. The main events are the Carnival, the Flower festival, Atlantic festival, Christmas and New Years festivities.

7 - Food & Drinks

The appetizing menus will help to make your stay on this island an unforgettable culinary expedition, you will find many typical dishes of fish or meat, deliciously prepared, not to mention the excellent wines to accompany your meal.

Because of its strategic location, this island is also the melting pot of delicious wine and sumptuous dishes, of both local and international cuisine. There is a wide variety of fishes like blue fin tuna and white marlin. The Espetada, which is a meat dish is a must try too!

Aside from the popular fortified Madeira wine, the local beer which is called Coral is also very popular.

Without a doubt, spending holidays in Madeira will not only unveil astounding sights. It will also be a gastronomic revelation.

8 - Porto Santo beach

Porto Santo Island is the second largest island of the Madeira archipelago and is located 75km northeast of Funchal. By air the trip takes no more than 15 minutes, but by boat it takes two hours and a half. The extensive beach with 9 km of golden sand, has no match anywhere on earth. It is said that here time seems to run slower and all concerns disappear.

As in Madeira, the warm Gulf Stream softens the climate and the sea temperature is pleasant pretty much all year round. And even when it rains in the summer, the beach is still inviting. The sand is known for its therapeutic qualities and it is not uncommon to see people completely buried, sometimes only with their head out.

9 - Weather

Because of Madeira Islands privileged geographical position and mountainous relief, it has a surprisingly mild climate. Very mild average temperatures, 25ºC in the summer and 17ºC in the winter, and a moderate level of humidity, confer upon this island exceptional subtropical features.

10 - Accommodation

There’s accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes in Madeira. The range of accommodation in Madeira is vast and of top quality, from the refined charm of traditional hospitality to the modern five-star hotels, the warm welcome of rural tourism establishments and traditional Madeirean manor houses.

Related articles

• 10 Local Things to do in Funchal
• Carnival in Madeira Island
• Summer Attractions in Madeira Island
• 22 Madeira Traditional Sweets you must try
• 15 Drinks You Must Try in Madeira Island
• 18 Dishes You Absolutely Must Try During Your Vacation in Madeira Island
• Visiting Madeira in April - An Easter Break
• Christmas Traditions in Madeira Island
• Top 28 Viewpoints You Must Visit in Madeira Island

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Say Yes to Madeira

Madeira island bucket list – 20 awesome things to do in madeira.

UPDATED:  15-03-2020   ◊   ZMIEŃ JĘZYK:  POLSKI

What to see and do in Madeira? A bucket list for all first-time visitors.

Madeira is an island full of attractions, especially beautiful hiking trails and breathtaking viewpoints. It also has an interesting history, beautiful street art and offers a wide range of excursions and outdoor activities.

For a short introduction to the island, please go to our previous post:   MADERA – FOR DUMMIES.  If you are looking for less known places – see post: MADEIRA’S HIDDEN GEMS . Our INSTAGRAM account will also be a great source of inspiration, as it is full of pictures presenting the most beautiful corners of the island. 

Today, the post many readers were asking for: the absolute best ideas for Madeira. Here’s a list of the best things to do and most popular attractions worth seeing during everyone’s first holidays in Madeira.

The purpose of this post is to inspire you and show you the most beautiful aspects of Madeira at a glance, while links to detailed blog posts or external sites will be a useful and practical guides.

Madeira Attractions: 20 x Best of Madeira

#1 do at least one levada walk.

Yes, the first thing you should pack are your trekking shoes as the island is a real paradise for hikers. It is famous especially for its levadas, i.e. small water channels built to transport water from the mountains and which currently serve as wonderful hiking trails.

There are many levadas on Madeira with varying degrees of difficulty. Some will take us the whole day, but many just a couple of hours. The entire list of routes along with difficulty levels and distances can be found on the official website: Visit Madeira . [HERE]  you will also find the brochures with all recommended hikes, available in English, Portuguese, French, Spanish and German.

The most beautiful (or rather: most popular) levadas in Madeira are: Levada 25 Fontes & Risco , Levada do Alecrim , Levada Caldeirao Verde & Levada do Furado.

To the list of my favorites I would also add: Levada Do Rei and Levada Fajã do Rodrigues .

CATEGORY MADEIRA HIKES & LEVADAS – ALL REVIEWS & TIPS

MADEIRA HIKES & LEVADAS – VIDEO PLAYLIST

#2 Stop at every Miradouro you will encounter on the way

The best way to discover Madeira is by car. It is worth learning the meaning of the Portuguese word miradouro – an observation deck – as there are plenty of marked signs leading to different observation decks. Some are right by the road, and it is a matter of minutes, and to some, you will need to hike a bit. If you have time, it is worth checking out every viewpoint you will notice because sometimes we can be pleasantly surprised.

There are way too many beautiful viewpoints on Madeira to mention all in this post, but the most popular ones, which I also recommend, are:

Balcões, Cabo Girão, Eira do Serrado, Miradouro do Guindaste, Véu da Noiva and Eira da Achada.

In Funchal, Miradouro Pico Dos Barcelos is pretty popular, and on Porto Santo- Miradouro da Portela. Both Madeira and Porto Santo actually have equally beautiful viewpoints with the same name – Portela.

Eira do Serrado

Pico Dos Barcelos

Miradouro da Portela (Porto Santo)

They are all definitely worth a visit. To my list of favorites I would also add: Pico do Facho, Pico da Torre, Rocha do Navio and Miradouro de São Sebastião, whose location is worth saving on Google Maps, because you won’t find it on TripAdvisor.

Pico do Facho

360-View of the runway, Machico beach and valley up to Ponta do Sao Lourenco

Pico da Torre

Great view of the colorful fishing village Camara de Lobos from above

Miradouro de São Sebastião

Beautiful view of the Ribeira Brava Valley and the south coast of Madeira

OTHER POSTS RELATED TO VIEWPOINTS:

PICO DO FACHO AND BEACH IN MACHICO

CAMARA DE LOBOS & PICO DA TORRE

EIRA DO SERRADO AND THE NUN’S VALLEY

#3 Take one of the many cable cars

There are several cable cars in Madeira. The most famous one connects the Old Town of Funchal with the top of the Monte hill and Monte Palace Tropical Gardens Park, and then this park with another park – Botanical Gardens. This cable car will allow you to enjoy the amazing view of the entire bay of Funchal for a couple of minutes.

Shorter, modern and comfortable cable cars can also be found on Fajã dos Padres and the Garajau Beach.

The most unforgettable rides can be found in the north and north-west of Madeira: Cable cars to Fajã da Rocha do Navio and Fajã da Quebrada Nova in Achadas da Cruz. Both take us to secluded and unique places, allowing us to enjoy some really breathtaking views.

Funchal-Monte Cable Car

Fajã da Rocha do Navio Cable Car

Fajã dos Padres Cable Car

RELATED POSTS ON OUR BLOG:

SECLUDED FAJA DOS PADRES

UNFORGETTABLE FAJA DA ROCHA DO NAVIO

#4 Visit at least one (botanical) garden

The two most famous botanical parks in Funchal that are worth visiting are Monte Palace Tropical Gardens and Madeira Botanical Garden.

Monte Palace Tropical Gardens

Where exotic plants, architecture, geology and art meet

Madeira Botanical Gardens

2,500 exotic plants including an interesting collection of succulents

Both are beautiful, both are different, both offer an amazing view of Funchal. In the city center you will also find Municipal Garden and Santa Catarina Park open to everyone. Apart from them, there are several other gardens and parks on the island. Many hotels on the island pride itself on its beautiful gardens.

#5 Swim in a lava pool

Volcanic pools built by nature are Madeira-specific bathing spots.

The most famous volcanic pools are the pools in Porto Moniz. Funchal also has its own pool complex called Doca do Cavacas. It is smaller and still remains in the shade of the Porto Moniz pools, but offers a magnificent view of the Cabo Girão cliff and … better weather, because this is usually the best on the southern coast.

Porto Moniz Lava Pools

Doca do Cavacas in Funchal

DOCA DE CAVACAS POOLS

SUNSET LAVA POOLS PHOTOSHOOT 

ALL SWIMMING COMPLEXES IN MADEIRA

BEACHES IN MADEIRA

#6 Fall in love with Madeira’s street art

The most famous street art is located in the Old Town of Funchal, where next to the murals you will find charming painted doors. In Funchal there are also several other murals, for example a beautiful, large whale mural – La Baleia and a well-made mural – a portrait of Cristiano Ronaldo in the district where he grew up.

The street art of the neighboring fishing village of Camara de Lobos is also very interesting. In this case, the doors were decorated by volunteers with recycled materials. Beautiful street art can also be found in Machico.

Funchal Street Art

Machico Street Art

Camara de Lobos Street Art

BEST STREET ART SPOTS OF MADEIRA

PAINTED DOORS OF FUNCHAL – GALLERY AND HISTORY

MACHICO STREET ART

MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE SPOTS IN CAMARA DE LOBOS

#7 Visit at least one Fajā  

“Fajā”is a piece of flat land, built by flowing lava, which is located at the foot of the cliff, cut off on one side by a cliff, on the other by water. They are beautiful and secluded places and quite common on Madeira. Each fajā is different and has its own charm, it is worth visiting at least one of them.

My recommendation: Fajā dos Padres or Fajā da Rocha do Navio.

Fajā dos Padres

Fajā da Rocha do Navio

Achadas da Cruz

FAJA DOS PADRES – INTRODUCTION

FAJA DOS PADRES – BEACH & PIER

WEDDINGS ON FAJA DOS PADRES

AMAZING FAJA DA ROCHA DO NAVIO

#8 Let the mountain tops wrapped in a carpet of clouds amaze you…

Magical mountain peaks covered with dense clouds and the silence accompanying these views is a real pleasure for the eyes and ears. We will see them in many places when discovering the island by car, most often around Pico Ruivo , Pico do Arieiro, Encumeada, and even Eira do Serrado.

Pico do Arieiro is the third highest peak of Madeira. However, it is easily accessible by car, which makes it one of the most popular attractions on the island. For advanced and intermediate travelers, the PR1 hiking route connecting the two peaks of Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo is strongly recommended. On this route, very close to Pico do Arieiro, you will find the famous “Stairs to the sky”. Whether hiking or just passing by car, this majestic mountain peak is definitely worth a visit.

Pico do Arieiro

Curral das Freiras - Nun's Valley

SUNRISE HIKE PICO RUIVO (PR1.2)

VEREDA DO ARIEIRO (PR1)

MAGICAL SUNSET PHOTOSHOOT ON PICO DO ARIEIRO

To enjoy the beauty of Madeira’s mountains and many, many viewpoints, we recommend renting a car for at least 2 or 3 full days.

Automatic cars are less popular and more expensive than manual ones, but they should be available if booked on time. If you are travelling to Madeira in high season, remember to book your car well in advance for best selection of cars. One of the best rated on Trustpilot websites we know is  Discovercars . They offer car rental services in around 10 000 destinations, and luckily also on Madeira Island.

#9 See the Nuns’ Valley from above … and below

Curral das Freiras (Valley of the Nuns) is one of my favorite places in Madeira. Located only half an hour from Funchal, it makes you feel like you are on a different island.

From above, we can admire it from the beautiful Eira do Serrado viewpoint, a common stop during many day tours. For all mountain lovers, I also recommend staying for at least one night in the hotel carrying the same name – Eira do Serrado Hotel and Spa.

However, we should not see the Nun’s Valley only from above. It is worth hiking down to the valley and strolling around its villages, for example to the spring where you can swim in the summer – Poco dos Chefes . Getting lost somewhere in the narrow valley streets, we will see the real, somewhat hidden Madeira, which is far from the luxurious hotel districts in Funchal.

View on Eira do Serrado from the Nun's Valley

View on the Nun's Valley from Eira do Serrado

VISITING THE NUN’S VALLEY BY BUS

#10 Walk where the mountains and cliffs meet the ocean…

If you are fit enough and do not suffer from vertigo – hike on Ponta de São Lourenço or Vereda do Larano.

Madeira’s routes are divided into “levada” and “vereda”. Vereda is in Portuguese every other route that does not run along the levada. It is worth also go on at least one other hike on Madeira, that is not a levada.

In addition to the “trail in the clouds” already mentioned in point # 8 – Vereda do Arieiro – Ruivo, my two recommendations for you are definitely the Ponta de São Lourenço and Vereda do Larano.

Ponta de São Lourenço – is probably one of the most beloved attractions of Madeira. If we have such an opportunity, it is definitely worth hiking the PR8 route, especially during the sunrise. The trail is especially popular because you can easily get there by bus, which is a good option for tourists without a car.

We do not need a car for the Vereda do Larano either, because we can get to both Machico and Porto da Cruz by bus. It is not a trail for people with the fear of heights, because it often leads right by the edge. However, it is an incredibly beautiful trail, and the views during the route, as well as when entering Porto da Cruz, are unique.

Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8)

Vereda do Larano

STAYING IN PORTO DA CRUZ

PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN MADERA

#11 Enjoy the rainbow of colours

… of exotic fruit sold at the Mercado dos Lavradores market, small, colorful boats in the bay of the fishing village Camara de Lobos, colorful Santana houses and flowers in botanical gardens, parks and gardens.

Plus, if you’re visiting Madeira in April/May, don’t miss the colorful and beautiful Flower Festival, and above all its main parade through the streets of Funchal.

Mercado dos Lavradores Market

Be careful, some fruit stands are a tourist trap!

Camara de Lobos Bay

Colourful boats in this famous village beloved by Winston Churchill

Flower Parade in Madeira

This spring Flower Festival will delight you. Flower Parade is it's main event

MERCADO DOS LAVRADORES MARKET- WARNING FOR TOURISTS

CAMARA DE LOBOS FISHING VILLAGE – BEST PHOTO SPOTS

FLOWER PARADE IN FUNCHAL – GALLERY

ENTIRE FLOWER FESTIVAL IN MADERA – OUR REVIEW

#12 Try Madeira’s signature local dishes and drinks (at a restaurant with a beautiful view)

There are many good restaurants in Madeira. Most of them serve typical beef, fish and seafood dishes. 

We recommend Espada , a fish served with baked banana pieces ( “Espada com banana” ), squid ( “Lulas Grelhadas” ) or a starter called Lapas Grelhadas – limpets baked in a special pan with garlic and butter, sprinkled with fresh lemon. I recommend Lapas to everyone, even if you are not a fan of seafood dishes – you may like it very much. Espetada is a Madeira “shashlik”, usually made of beef (baked on a metal skewer or a bay laurel stick), seasoned with salt, garlic and bay leaves, grilled on wood or charcoal.

Typical for Madeira are restaurants specializing in Espetades – you can recognize them by the iron stands built into the tables, on which the waiter hangs the finished Espetada.

Here are some proven and well-rated restaurants that specialize in Espetades:

Restaurante Santo António

It will be hard to find options without meat in such Espetada restaurants, so I do not recommend it to vegetarians and vegans.

There are so many great restaurants on Madeira that it is difficult to recommend you the best ones. I will focus on those that are not only a pleasure for your taste buds, but also eyes. Here are examples of several restaurants with beautiful views:

Quinta do Furão with a beautiful view of the north coast

Restaurante Planka with a stunning view of Funchal from above

Sabores do Curral with a view of the mountains and the Nuns Valley

Design Centre Nini Andrade Silva Restaurant great interior restaurant overlooking the bay and the port of Funchal

Restaurante Marisqueira O Barqueiro with a view of the Cabo Girão cliff

On Porto Santo, a beautiful view is guaranteed, especially at:

Panorama Restaurant with a view of the entire beach and Vida Baleira from above

Madeira is also famous for its extensive menu of local drinks, which I have already explained in detail in my post: LOCAL DRINKS OF MADEIRA . Even more popular than Madeira wine is the fruity Poncha. Meeting with friends for a Poncha is more popular than grabbing a beer together. A few Poncha bars we love to hang out at are:

In Funchal:

Bar Venda Velha

 Bar Rei da Poncha

 Bar O Avo 

Outside Funchal: 

Taberna da Poncha 

Bar Filhos do Mar

Poncha Bars on Madeira

Blandy's (Madeira Wine) Lodge, Museum & Shop

# 13 Check who lives in the waters of Madeira

Madeira is probably one of the best places in Europe, where you can not only observe dolphins and whales, but also swim with dolphins in their natural habitat.

Swimming with dolphins tours Madeira

Book you swimming with dolphins tour

All dolphins and sea life observation tours

Check, compare and book whale&dolphin watching tours

Swimming with dolphins in the open ocean was my dream, and I’m glad I could fulfil it on Madeira. We frequently go on dolphin watching tours, so here is our post comparing different options:

SEE POST: SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS & DOLPHIN WATCHING

in which we give you also a nice discount code for 10% off on different kind of sea life tours. Be sure to check it and save it for later.

#14 Try out a new sport or activity in nature

There are so many ways to burn those extra calories on Madeira… During those outdoor activities, you can not only gain new skills, learn something new, expand your comfort zone, but also discover places in Madeira that we would not otherwise see.

Sports and outdoor activities such as canyoning, coasteering, climbing, diving and paragliding allow you to discover Madeira’s hard-to-reach spots. There are also some cool activities on Porto Santo, the two we like the most are rock pool snorkeling and kayaking.

Let me just add an important tip for all budget travelers: come to Madeira in the fall, during the Madeira Nature Festival.

During the Madeira Nature Festival, tourists are invited to try out such lessons and outdoor activities free of charge! Be sure to check out our post with tips on getting the free tour tickets: Madeira Nature Festival

NATURE FESTIVAL MADEIRA ISLAND – HOW TO GET FREE TICKETS?

SURFING FOR BEGINNERS

CANYONING FOR BEGINNERS

COASTEERING FOR BEGINNERS 

KAYAKING ON PORTO SANTO 

SNORKELING ON PORTO SANTO

#15 Dare… to try out these two crazy Madera attractions

That is: Dare to enter the glass terrace of Cabo Girão or get on the Toboggan sled (Carreiros do Monte). Here are two crazy Madera attractions that some tourists do not dare to try. Will you?

The glass terrace on the Cabo Girão cliff is a place that will not take much time, if only you have the courage to enter it. In my opinion, the glass terrace is not as scary as they say. The glass is covered (for reasons I don’t understand) with tiny dots, which makes looking down less frightening. The view from the Cabo Girão cliff, however, is beautiful, so it’s worth visiting it, even for 5 minutes.

As for the Monte Toboggan, this is a rather unusual attraction. Tourists, after getting to the Monte Hill, have the opportunity to ride down wicker sleds on public roads. Of course, they do not do it on their own, but with the help of two skilled sled drivers.

Carreiros do Monte (Monte Toboggan)

#16 Take the ferry to Porto Santo

Madeira is beautiful, but there is something that it does not have, namely large, natural, snow-white, sandy beaches. For such, you can go to the neighboring, smaller sister of Madeira – the island of Porto Santo. It is usually possible to return from Porto Santo to Madeira on the same day. In addition to the ferry, Porto Santo can also be reached by a local plane, and the flight between the islands takes about 20 minutes.

Porto Santo is famous for its comfortable, beautiful, sandy beach and azure water; you can also go sailing, dolphin watching or snorkeling. There are also several beautiful viewpoints and walking trails on the island. The most popular covered tourist attraction is the Museum – House of Columbus.

Porto Santo - info

Attractions, hikes, hotels, restaurants and more

Ferry Line Madera - Porto Santo

KAYAK CAVE TOURS PORTO SANTO

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING TO PORTO SANTO BY FERRY 

FAMILY/GROUP STAY ACCOMMODATION ON PORTO SANTO

BEAUTIFUL BEACH WEDDING PORTO SANTO

#17 Watch the sunrise or the sunset at the right place…

Tourists usually watch the sunrise from the top of Pico do Arieiro or Pico Ruivo, or on the easternmost point of the island – Ponta de São Lourenço.

However, even in Funchal itself, the sun also looks beautiful when it rises slowly from behind Ponta do Garajau. This is the view you will get from many port-facing balconies in the hotel district in Funchal, especially the Cliff Bay & Savoy Palace.

A great view of the sunset spreads from many places in the south and west of Madeira. Many tourists view it from the area of Ponta do Pargo.

We still remember the sunset observed on the terrace of the Maktub bar in Paul do Mar and a December sunset above a stunning infinity pool on the roof of the Savoy Saccharum Hotel in Calheta.

>Sunsets look great in Funchal as well, for example from the bathing complex Doca de Cavacas, where the sun sets with a view of the spectacular cliff of Cabo Girão. There are also companies offering romantic evening sunset cruises,

Maktub in Paul do Mar >

Delicious food, great cocktails and a beautiful view during sunset

Savoy Saccharum Hotel >

A modern, beautifully located four-star hotel in Calheta

Sunset watching cruises >

A romantic, evening catamaran cruise from Funchal

SUNRISE HIKE TO PICO RUIVO (PR 1.2)

SUNSET PHOTOSHOOT PICO DO ARIEIRO

SUNSET LAVA POOLS PHOTOSHOOT

#18 Visit at least one of the museums and one of the local art galleries

Depending on your interests, but I particularly liked and recommend:

Universo de Memorias for an amazing collection of beautiful exhibits from around the world, a jaw-dropping collection of horses, ties, Amalia souvenirs and a beautiful view of Funchal Bay

Madeira Optics Museum will impress all photography fans, but it is also a wonderful exhibition of the first photos ever taken in Madeira. You can see how much the island has changed throughout the years 

It is also worth visiting at least one museum related to the history of Madeira and its local products, especially the old sugar cane mills, such as, for example, Engenhos do Norte in Porto da Cruz, or Sociedade dos Engenhos da Calheta.

Madeira Film Experience or Madeira Story Centre are, on the other hand, two interactive exhibitions/museums that are not particularly extraordinary, but they are a good option for those who would like to learn the entire history of the island. They are also a great option for rainy days. You can learn a lot about Madeira’s history in the Sao Vicente Caves & Volcanic Centre .

Madeira Museums

All museums of Madeira Island

Madeira Art Galleries

Art Galleries on Madeira

UNIVERSO DE MEMORIAS – OUR REVIEW

RESTOCK GALLERY 

As for the most famous museum in Madeira, it is probably the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum. And since we’re talking about Mr. Ronaldo …

#19 Find traces of Ronaldo on Madeira

Almost at the end of our list, something for football fans. Madeira is after all the famous island of Ronaldo. On the island you will find several places related to the football player and I mapped them in my post:

13 X CR7 – PLACES RELATED TO RONALDO IN MADERA

CR7 Hotel in Funchal

CR7 Museum in Funchal

Unofficial CR7 collection

#20 Discover the usual-unusual Madeira

Last but not least and above all – do not hide in comfortable and shiny hotel districts! Get out and discover this ordinary-extraordinary Madeira that you will stay in your heart. You can find the real Madeira by strolling through small towns, narrow paths between fields of local farmers.

I remember several incidents from my travels, where I was surprised by the “everyday unusuality” of Madeira. For example, when I entered Porto da Cruz in September, I passed dozens of farmers with buckets of freshly harvested grapes, which they offered to me smiling. I also saw how one of the families had to use a… cable car to get to their own field.

By taking the bus or walking through the dead-end roads of the villages in the Nuns Valley, I couldn’t get over the magical views and the locals’ way of living. Similarly, when I got lost climbing up the village of Machico on narrow … walls actually, because you could not call them roads. I passed by simple gardens and even an animal pen at the top of the hill, with a view that many hotels would wish to have.

I am delighted with all the buildings and roads, and even the football fields built on the slopes of mountains, all the houses that we cannot reach by any vehicle and to which we need to climb primitive trails. I just love all Madeira’s hidden corners, and the true face of Madeira without any make-up, and I highly recommend you discover it too… 

Talking about unusual places – have you already heard about Calhau da Lapa … ?

What do you think is worth adding to the list of the ultimate best things to do in Madeira? 

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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:

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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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.

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10 Best Things to Do in Madeira Island, Portugal (+ Insider Tips)

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To be honest, I could spend hours writing about Madeira! This small island, also known as the “ Hawaii of Europe”, is packed with adventure, and I enjoyed every corner of it! There are so many incredible things to do in Madeira, that I highly recommend visiting it on your next vacation in Europe. 

Being an island in the Atlantic Ocean, the natural beauty of Madeira is truly unparalleled, and is one of the top reasons that Madeira is worth visiting . And with that, comes some incredible outdoor activities to do in Madeira. 

In this guide, we will go over some of the top things to do in Madeira, from outdoor activities to eating the local cuisine.

Without further ado, let’s get into the top activities in Madeira!

Top 10 Things to Do in Madeira Portugal

1. enjoy the food in funchal’s old town.

Your first stop will undoubtedly be Funchal, the island’s capital city. I recommend taking a walk through the old town (Zona Velha), as it perfectly showcases Madeira’s deep history and heritage mixed with modern-day street art.

While making your way down the old cobblestone streets, you will notice many bars and restaurants that offer traditional local food; and, believe me when I say it is nothing less than delicious. 

For me, the best dish was the famous espetada! Tender beef skewers that usually come accompanied by potatoes and salad. The key ingredient that gives this dish its amazing earthy flavor is the bay leaves! 

I paired my espetada with a glass of Atlantis Rose, which is a good quality table wine from Madeira.

2. Explore the Monte Palace Garden

The Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a truly magical place and probably the most popular attraction of Madeira. 

The sight holds a remarkable collection of tropical plants from all around the world and has many lakes and ponds that are home to swans, ducks, and other animals. 

Among all that natural diversity, you will encounter art exhibitions, sculptures, and one of the finest mineral collections you’ve ever seen! It will take you a few hours to explore this wonderful space, but it’s worth it.

Just be sure to avoid rainy days, as the location is high up in the mountains and bad weather can affect your overall experience.

3.  Watch the Sunrise from Pico do Arieiro

Pico do Arieiro is one of the highest peaks on the island offering some of the best panoramic views of the whole island. Pico do Arieiro is very popular among hikers, with many who decide to traverse both Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo (the island’s highest point) in one day!

Hiker or not, you can easily get to the sunrise spot without breaking a sweat! Just a 30-minute drive from Funchal will get you to the incredible viewpoint. 

Depending on the weather conditions, you will be able to witness the popular cloud inversion as well! 

This is a perfect place for snapping some photos, however, due to the popularity of this site, be prepared to encounter many more who came for the same reason. 

4. Swim in the Natural Pools of Porto Moniz

Before I visited the island, several people suggested Porto Moniz as the most popular tourist attraction out there, and when I arrived, I understood why. This small village in northern Madeira is well-known for the volcanic rock swimming pools that stand along its rugged coast. 

The natural lava pools are filled with clear ocean water that blends with the gorgeous blue sky above.

I went in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, but early morning is also a good time to visit. The space is very well organized and for a small fee, you can relax the whole day. 

The only thing that can get in your way are the occasional strong waves, and in that case, the pools are closed, but you can still enjoy the awesome view.

5. Spend a Day in Câmara de Lobos

The name of this fisherman’s village might sound intimidating, as it translates to ‘Chamber of Wolfs’, but the place itself is quite the opposite. 

The reason it was given this name was the large number of sea (wolves) lions that lived there, but these days, you will be lucky if you come across one.  

What you will find is many colorful fishing boats peacefully floating in the harbor. Actually, Winston Churchill was really inspired by this location, and you will find his favorite painting spot marked with a statue of him.

In Câmara de Lobos, you will also find one of the best wineries in Madeira ! Henriques & Henriques makes some of the best Madeira wine on the island. Visit Henriques & Henriques for a wine tasting and to enjoy stunning views from the winery!

6. Experience the Cabo Girão Skywalk

If you are afraid of heights, you might want to skip this one, because even the bravest get a little dizzy here.  

Cabo Girão is the tallest peak in Europe and you can get there either by renting a car or by taking a bus. The skywalk is a see-through walkway that showcases views over the cliff, allowing a breathtaking downward view of the ocean and the green fields at the bottom. 

It’s quite an experience stepping onto the glass platform and feeling like you are walking across the sky. 

Walking on the skywalk is free, and can easily be reached from Village Cabo Girão.

7. Visit Santana

Santana is one of the most iconic villages in Madeira, with the red and white houses with thatched roofs being one of the most identifiable destinations on the island. 

Located in East Madeira, you can reach Santana by renting a car or taking one of the many tours that leave from Funchal to experience the beauty of this village.

You can easily dedicate an entire 1-2 days exploring Santana, as there are many things to do that allow you to gain a unique perspective compared to Funchal.

While in Santana, be sure to visit the Madeira Theme Park, as well as the largest rose garden in Portugal! Santana is also home to Queimadas Forest Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its precious biodiversity.

8. Stop by the Fanal Forest

This atypical forest is located in the northwestern part of Madeira where the fog forms with ease before rising to the top of the mountains. 

Thanks to the thick fog, the forest takes on a ghostly appearance that combines perfectly with the crooked laurel trees that are common in this area. 

The result? A truly unusual yet beautiful setting for taking photos that look like they came straight out of a fairy tale. 

The forest was easy to find as it is located just one hour by car from Funchal. You may also reach it by joining organized tracking tours.

This is the largest surviving area of laurel forest in the world and for that reason, it became a UNESCO World Heritage site and a highly protected landmark.

No matter how many days you have on Madeira , you need to give this attraction a shot!

9. Walk the Sao Lourenco Peninsula

If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity in Madeira, the Sao Lourenco Peninsula, also called ‘The Dragon’s Tail’, is one of the most beautiful settings you can find.

The Sao Lourenco Peninsula is an area full of cliffs facing the sea, with an arid and rocky landscape that brings a very unique drama to the place.

The peninsula is close to the airport and is easy to recognize as it will be one of the first things you see when arriving in Madeira. The walk is moderate and anyone with average physical condition will be able to do it without problem. 

Besides the walk, I really liked collecting fossils down by the beach, a dream I had long before I came to the island, and Sao Lourenco made it a reality!

10. See the Seixal Beach

Seixal Beach has a charm that can hardly be surpassed by the rest of the beaches on the island. 

While most of the beaches in Madeira are pebbles or rocks, Seixal Beach is a black volcanic sand beach, that is both beautiful and relaxing to visit. Made completely out of fine sand, this beach is much more comfortable if you plan to go swimming or walk along the beach barefoot.

But the fine sand is not the only thing that this beach has to offer. The impressive landscapes, where the sea and the mountains meet, make this beach one of the favorites, both for locals and tourists.

I also recommend coming to this beach at sunrise, as you get some incredible views of the water that make it even more magical.

Conclusion 

There are so many incredible things to do in Madeira; you can easily fill up a 1-2 week itinerary no problem!

I hope that this list has made your trip planning easier. These were only my top ten recommendations of activities to do in Madeira, but with so many options, I can’t wait to hear what went into your final list.

The good news is that there are tons of tours that leave from Funchal every day, with a tour for practically every activity on this list! Taking a tour makes it so you can enjoy the beautiful island without needing to coordinate your own transportation. 

Author’s Bio: Jess is a California native with a HUGE passion for travel and wine tasting. When she is not found working at the hospital, you can find her playing with her mini Australian Shepherd or planning her next vacation! She created Travel + Tannins to help inspire and plan travel (wine-related, or not!) for others.

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7 Reasons to Visit Madeira, Portugal’s Island Escape

You may know the name of the wine, but little about the place where it’s made. Well, it’s time to get familiar with Madeira because it’s one of the most appealing year-round destinations in Europe.

To get properly acquainted, let’s go back a few centuries. In 1419, Portuguese ruler Prince Henry the Navigator dispatched explorers to find new lands for Portugal to settle. Some of these industrious explorers stumbled upon a rocky archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean about 310 mi / 500 km northwest of Africa. It was uninhabited, but undeniably appealing, with lush forests on rocky mountains, sandy beaches alongside cool blue waters, and a variety of microclimates that kept the temperature mild at all times of year. They decided to stick around and the island chain became known as Madeira, the name of the largest of the islands. It’s been one of the most attractive destinations in Europe ever since.

Nowadays, Madeira is known as the Pearl of the Atlantic and an ideal spot to explore at all times of year. The capital, Funchal, is a popular port for European cruise ships, while Portuguese and British vacationers head to the islands in the winter months to spend a few weeks in the sun. It’s time for North American travellers to catch on to what makes Madeira such an appealing spot and make Madeira their next destination.

Why should you visit Madeira?

1. madeira is a year-round travel destination, but particularly appealing in winter..

Madeira is blessed with a mild climate year-round. That means that it’s warm in the winter, sitting in the low-sixties °F / mid-teens °C. But it’s also not hot in the summer. Rather, it’s relatively consistent year-round, meaning you can visit at all times of year without getting too hot or cold. If you like to spend time outdoors, you’re in luck in Madeira. The climate is perfect for hiking through the UNESCO-listed prehistoric laurel forests that coat the hillside or exploring the 890-year-old cave system of Sao Vicente. Madeira is also an ideal place to spend several weeks or even months in the winter. You can book an apartment-style accommodation and explore the islands at leisure, learning to live (and enjoy the famous food and wine) like a local.

2. Madeira is made for adventures by water.

As an island in the North Atlantic, Madeira is blessed with easy access to water. It’s never far from a sandy beach or a rocky cove to explore. And there are natural swimming pools around the island, which offer volcanic surroundings and warm waters constantly refilled by the tides. Such an abundance of water leads to a wealth of water activities available in Madeira. And perhaps best of all: the water is warm all year round, ranging between 64°F / 18°C and 75 °F / 24°C. You can snorkel in the nature reserves of Canical or Garajau to spot exotic sea life, including bright sea stars, join a licensed diving company to explore further afield, or simply relax on the beaches. You can also spot whale and dolphin pods that pass through the waters. Bottlenose dolphins are common year round, while sperm whales, humpback whales, and even orcas pass through the waters, especially in the late spring and summer.

3. Madeira is great for land adventures as well.

Madeira is a year-round hiking destination, largely due to the unique levadas , stone channels dating back to the 15th century, which capture water falling in the mountains for use in agricultural hydration. Narrow paths run along the around 200 levadas on the islands, making them convenient ways to get around in otherwise inaccessible mountain regions. Travellers can use these pathways to explore the mountains, hike to viewpoints on top of dormant volcanoes, and explore the lush laurel forests, which cover much of the islands.

4. Madeira wine and food is justifiably famous.

Madeira wine is arguably the most famous thing about the island chain, and justifiably so. This fortified wine dates back to the 15th century and today it’s popular as a dry standalone wine or sweet aperitif to drink alongside desserts. There are gorgeous vineyards across the islands, often in high elevations in the hillsides, where you can join wine tours, learn about the history of Madeira wine, and, of course, try some for yourself. But the pleasures don’t stop with Madeira wine. The island is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, but you don’t have to go fancy to enjoy the pleasures of local culinary favourites. Favourite local dishes include lapas (grilled limpets, typically served with butter, garlic, and lemon), espetada (grilled beef skewers marinated in garlic, salt, and bay leaves), and delicate espada (black scabbard fish, that’s often braised or fried, and typically served with passion fruit and banana sauce).

5. Madeira accommodates all kinds of travel interests.

Madeira might sound like a place for wine lovers, hikers, or divers, but it’s made for all interests. History lovers can learn about the islands’ settlement in the 15th century, pick up on their unique cultural traditions, and explore some of the historic settlements. Those who love celebratory festivities should visit on New Year’s Eve, when the islands hold a massive fireworks festival. Amateur gardeners will swoon at the verdant hillsides, as well as the many gorgeous gardens that take advantage of the subtropical climate. Madeira Botanical Garden is one of the best, while Monte Palace Madeira blends history with botany in a three-storey museum with expansive gardens. The Flower Festival in Funchal every spring is more proof of Madeira’s remarkable botanical variety, as the capital transforms into a veritable bouquet for several weeks each year.

6. Madeira is affordable.

Madeira accommodates all manner of budget levels. If you’re looking for luxury accommodation, you’ll find boutique hotels and resorts that provide world-class amenities and service. But you don’t need to break the bank in Madeira. It has many affordable and lovely accommodations, often in historic buildings. As well, most goods are more affordable than in comparable destinations, such as the Canary Islands and mainland Europe, so you can save as you explore.

7. Madeira is easy to get to.

Madeira is a breeze to get to with Azores Airlines, which offers the only year-round, non-stop service from New York to Funchal, as well as summer non-stop service from Boston and Toronto. Winter flights with a stop in the Azores are also available from Toronto and Boston, plus the option for a free stopover in the Azores. Madeira might have all the makings of a remote destination, but it’s accessible and affordable. Your tailor-made trip to Madeira is just a flight away.

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You might say that Aren was destined to become a globetrotter after his family took him to Germany two times before he was four. If that wasn’t enough, a term spent in Sweden as a young teenager and a trek across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand confirmed that destiny. An independent writer, director, and film critic, Aren has travelled across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and South America. His favourite travel experience was visiting the major cities of Japan’s largest island, Honshu, but his love for food, drink, and film will take him anywhere that boasts great art and culture.

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What to do in Madeira and Porto Santo

Living the sea.

Breathing Nature

Absorbing culture.

Discovering Funchal

Unveiling Flavours

Forget the overtourism of the Amalfi Coast and head to Madeira, Portugal

Try this stunning alternative in the Atlantic Ocean

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The Amalfi Coast pulls visitors with its idyllic scenery, cliffside villages and trendy boutique hotels. The region's beauty is a double-edged sword — while you are planning a trip, so are tens of thousands of others, all gunning for the same sights in Positano, Sorrento and Amalfi.

There is a charming destination, not too far away, that provides the same carefree seaside experience: Madeira, Portugal. An autonomous region in the North Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is "rugged and subtropical," Lonely Planet said, "the kind of place that makes your head spin — in a good way."

Natural pools, like this one in Porto Moniz, can be found across Madeira

This is courtesy of Madeira fortified wine and poncha , a traditional alcoholic beverage, plus the "temperate, swimmable ocean and a cinematic, mountainous landscape," Condé Nast Traveler said. Hikers, bikers and sun-seekers fill their days with trips to the rocky beaches and natural pools and treks along the levadas, which are aqueducts built by early settlers.

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The Levada das 25 Fontes trail leads to the Risco waterfall

Come to Madeira any time

The island sees its biggest crowds during August, but they are nothing like the crush of tourists in Italy. Madeira is a year-round destination, with warm summers and mild winters. "The Atlantic affects the climate, the wildlife and the food," Travel + Leisure said, and because Madeira is so hilly, there are views of the "bright water" around every turn. 

Enjoy a glass of Madeira wine at one of Funchal's many outdoor terraces

There are a few ways to tackle a trip to Madeira. Those looking for some sun can hang out on one of the many glorious beaches, like the black sand Praia do Porto de Seixal, but the entire island is worth exploring. Porto Moniz is known for its breathtaking cliffs, natural pools and forests filled with hiking, cycling and canyoneering opportunities. The capital, Funchal, is fun to walk around, and you can pop into museums like the Quinta das Cruzes and walk through the Jardins Botanicos da Madeira botanical gardens. At lunch, stop at the Mercado dos Lavradores, a vibrant market where fresh fish and produce are always available.

Get whisked away

No visit to Madeira is complete without riding on one of the cable cars that climb up and down the island's cliffs. The Teleferico das Achadas da Cruz cable car in Porto Moniz sweeps visitors to a pebbled beach, with gorgeous ocean views the entire wobbly ride. During the five-minute journey, you might get to know a local resident: The cars are regularly used by farmers to transport their harvests.

Cable cars offer cliffside views

A historic stay

Quaint boutique accommodations can be found across Madeira, but for "old-world glamour," Condé Nast Traveler recommends checking into Reid's Palace in Funchal, the island's "most famous grand dame hotel." In the hotel's early days — it opened in 1891 — guests arrived by boat, and staffers carried them on hammocks up to their rooms. Today's visitors are more independent and get themselves to their suites themselves, but the property does retain an "elegant Victorian feel," with floral wallpaper and antique furniture. After a day of swimming in one of the hotel's two heated pools, be sure to enjoy afternoon tea on the outdoor terrace before eating dinner at the Michelin-starred William Restaurant , led by Madeira native chef José Diogo Costa.

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Catherine Garcia is night editor for TheWeek.com . Her writing and reporting has appeared in Entertainment Weekly and EW.com , The New York Times , The Book of Jezebel , and other publications. A Southern California native, Catherine is a graduate of the University of Redlands and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

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50 things you need to know before traveling to Madeira

Madeira is one of our favorite destinations in Portugal . Known as the pearl of the Atlantic, it has beautiful natural landscapes, adventurous hikes, natural pools, impressive waterfalls, delicious food, and an almost tropical atmosphere but in a European destination. Therefore, it is only natural that it is a popular destination among national and foreign travelers.

In this guide, we will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Madeira, providing travel tips that allow you to travel freely, without stress, and make the most of what Madeira has to offer. And believe me, that’s a lot!

So, to make this information easy to understand, we created the 50 things you need to know before traveling to Madeira , scrutinizing the best destinations, the interaction with people, the best ways to travel, costs, ways to save, and much more…

If you are also visiting Portugal, you can also check the 50 things to know before traveling to Portugal.

Page Contents

About Madeira and the Madeirans

#1 With only 801 km2, the Madeira archipelago is quite small in terms of surface area. Of these 801 km2, almost the entirety corresponds to the island of Madeira with 742 km2. Porto Santo has only 42 m2, while the desert islands are slightly less than 15 km2.

#2 Located in the North Atlantic, Madeira is part of the African plate, about 700 km from the Moroccan coast, almost 1000 km from Lisbon, about 500 km from the Canary Islands, and 900 km from the Azores.

#3 Despite being relatively small, Madeira Island is very mountainous, with huge gorges that rise directly from the sea. The highest point of Madeira is the Pico Ruivo, with 1862 meters of altitude. Though there are numerous peaks above 1500 meters, the average altitude is 1371 meters.

#4 The Madeira archipelago is the second most prosperous region in Portugal , after Lisbon and the Tagus Valley. Madeira’s GDP per capita is 103% of the EU average level.

In addition to producing some agricultural goods, having a good fishing sector, and some services, the economy of Madeira depends mainly on tourism. Some of Madeira’s best-known products are sugar cane, banana, and tuna.

The Madeirans

#5 Despite the reduced area available and the difficulties caused by the orography, around 250,000 people live in Madeira, with a large majority living in Funchal or its surroundings in the south of the island. The north and center of the island are very sparsely populated.

#6 Portuguese is spoken in Madeira, but most people also speak English and even other languages ​​due to the importance of tourism to the archipelago.

The people of Madeira have a very specific accent and are sometimes quite difficult to understand, causing some confusion. There are also many words and expressions typical of Madeira. The best known is semilha , which means Potato (but not sweet potato), but there are many, as you can see here .

#7 Despite some exceptions (curiously always in highly touristy places), in our experience, the Madeirans are extremely friendly and helpful people. For example, when we had problems with our car, people can to us offering help without us requesting it.

This friendly way of ending up making the whole travel experience even more pleasant.

#8 This reminds us of something that Madeirans usually don’t like very much… forgetting that Madeira is part of Portugal , and Madeirans are Portuguese. So, avoid saying “in Portugal” when referring to the mainland, as you are implying that Madeira is not Portugal.

It’s not a serious faux pas , but you can tell some people don’t appreciate it. 🙂 Madeira is different and separated by the ocean, but it’s Portugal.

#9 Born in Funchal, Cristiano Ronaldo is the most famous of all Madeirans . He is considered the best Portuguese player of all time and one of the best players in football history.

The Portuguese international is also the player with the most official goals in history (over 800) and has won five Golden Balls. Madeira takes great pride in its achievements, and in Funchal, you will find its Museum, a statue, and a hotel. Madeira’s own airport is now called Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport.

Climate in Madeira

#10 Madeira’s climate is considered sub-tropical, with hot and dry summers, while winters are more humid and cooler. However, there are several sub-climates due to the mountainous interior and the sea currents.

In general, we can say that the south of the island is hotter and drier, while the north is wetter and slightly cooler. The island’s mountainous interior is considerably cooler due to the altitude.

Another characteristic of Madeira’s climate is that the temperature variations throughout the year are relatively small, especially at sea level. As we said, winters are colder, but it’s rarely really cold. Therefore, it’s a great destination to escape cold northern Europe. Note, however, that temperatures are much lower in the mountains, and it even snows in some places.

When to travel to Madeira?

#11 Due to this wonderful climate, Madeira is a tourist destination during any season, attracting tourists throughout the year. But summer is naturally the high season.

Our favorite times to travel to Madeira are in May and June when temperatures are almost summer-like, the sea temperature is increasing, and the number of sunny days is high. As it is spring, it is also when the island is full of life and color, with lots of flowers and seasonal fruits.

Is it safe to travel to Madeira?

#12 In general, yes. It is quite safe to travel to Madeira. The island has low crime levels, and if we are talking about violent crime, then you’ll need to be really unlucky for something to happen to you.

Scams, pickpockets, and alikes shouldn’t be a big concern either. As in any other place, we must be careful, especially in tourist areas, but we are not aware of many issues in this regard.

#13 In fact, the only scam we ever heard about was in the Mercado de Lavradores, where prices are inflated for some tourists. Plus, sometimes the fruit offered to taste is not the same as the sold, and it has added sugar to taste sweeter. However, we did not even experience this in the market.

Anyway, be aware this may happen.

#14 Finally, in terms of safety, we have to mention that some people have disappeared from the levadas in Madeira, so we advise you to be extra careful.

The levadas marked and recommended by Madeira Tourism are almost always protected, but it is always necessary to be careful. After all, we are on a mountain, and with huge canyons. Falling there can be very dangerous.

On the other hand, the greatest danger is taking unrecommended levadas and venturing into unfamiliar and dangerous places. We advise you to pay close attention and follow official rules and recommendations. If you do, you will hardly take any risks.

Travel in Madeira

Tourists in madeira.

#15 As mentioned above, Madeira is an extremely popular tourist destination, both among Portuguese and foreigners. Before the pandemic, Madeira received around 1.5 million tourists yearly, about six times the resident population.

Due to the all-year-round good weather, and the different events spread throughout the year, Madeira welcomes tourists throughout the year. However, it is in the summer that most travelers come to the island; thus, at that time of year, you will have more difficulties getting away from the crowds.

What to visit in Madeira

#16 Despite being a subtropical destination with good year-round weather, Madeira (island) is not a beach destination. In fact, there are relatively few beaches in Madeira and none with natural white/golden sand.

However, we must mention that in Calheta and Machico, there are beaches with golden sand, but they are artificial beaches with imported sand. There’s nothing wrong with that; the beaches are inviting but not natural.

There are also some dark sand beaches, such as Prainha, near Ponta de São Lourenço, and Praia do Seixal, in Seixal. Finally, Madeira has many “beaches” made of stone and goths, such as Praia Formosa and Porto da Cruz Beach.

#17 On the other hand, there are plenty of seawater pools, some more natural and others more artificial. Some of them are absolutely stunning and have even been considered one of the best natural pools in the world several times

The Porto Moniz pools are probably the best-known and most popular. Note that Porto Moniz has two pools, one more natural and the other more artificial. It’s worth visiting both of them as they are within walking distance of each other.

Still on the north coast, the Natural Pools of Seixal are also stunning and are close to the beach mentioned above, so you can make a 2-in-1.

#18 Finally, and if you are looking for paradisiacal beaches, the archipelago has a solution for you: the stunning beach of Porto Santo. Yes, this beach has everything we are looking for in a beach destination.

With almost 9 km in length, the beach of Porto Santo is immense, with golden and soft sand. The sea is turquoise, with pleasant clean water, reaching temperatures between 22ºC and 25ºC from July to early October.

#19 Thus, Porto Santo is Madeira’s beach destination of excellence. An excellent place for relaxing and unwinding as a family or for romantic getaways. Unfortunately, the island doesn’t have much else to offer. There are some walks, viewpoints, and the Columbus House Museum, but little else.

Anyway, it’s well worth spending a few days there, but more than that can be too much, especially for more active travelers.

#20 One of the things not to be missed in Madeira is visiting and exploring the laurel forest. It is one of the most famous things about Madeira and a major tourist attraction. Laurisilva is a type of subtropical forest that grows in areas of high humidity with stable and mild temperatures.

In Madeira, this type of forest develops between 300 and 1300 meters in altitude, covering about 20% of the island, especially on the north coast. It is truly an enchanted forest with unique species of both animals and plants.

In 1999, UNESCO declared the Laurisilva of Madeira a world heritage site for being the best example of a laurel forest and one of the habitats in the world with the highest rate of plant diversity per km².

#21 The levadas are the best way to visit and explore the laurel forest. They take hikers to the forest’s heart through beautiful paths that follow the water lines and allow them to enjoy one of the most beautiful landscapes in Portugal. Walking along Madeira’s levadas is a unique experience.

The levadas are gently sloping stone channels that transport water from the island’s north to the south. These were built over hundreds of years between the 15th and 20th centuries. Initially, it would allow the irrigation of sugarcane plantations, wine, and other agricultural goods, but later also for electrical production.

#22 In Madeira, there are hundreds and hundreds of km of levadas. We have read that it is about 1400 km, but other sources say it is more than 3000 km. In any case, it is an impressive number and work. Some of these levadas are marked and signposted, making them perfectly safe for hiking.

Some courses are relatively short and easy, while others are much harder and longer. Some of the levadas take us directly to the heart of the laurel forest, others cross mountains through long tunnels, and in almost all of them, we find fabulous waterfalls and rivers.

#23 Madeira’s walks are really one of its main attractions, especially for those who enjoy nature and outdoor activities. In addition to the levadas, several paths present us with beautiful landscapes.

The official website of Madeira Tourism has a lot of information about all the recommended levadas and paths, including whether or not they are open. Some of our favorites are:

• Levada das 25 fontes
• Levada do Rei
• Levada dos Balcões
• Levada do Caldeirão Verde
• Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço

#24 Another excellent reason to visit Madeira is the waterfalls. Beautiful waterfalls are scattered throughout the island, some bigger and some smaller. The best known is probably the Véu da Noiva, a 30-40 meter waterfall that falls directly into the sea.

Cascata dos Anjos (Anjos waterfall) is also well known and particularly popular on Instagram because it gives incredible images. This waterfall falls directly onto the road, where cars pass. While not especially pretty or tall, it’s a very distinct experience.

Besides these, there are multiple other waterfalls spread around the island. Some of the best waterfalls in Madeira include:

• Risco Waterfall
• Caldeirão Verde Waterfall
• 25 fountains waterfall
• Levada do Rei Waterfall

#25 Madeira has a very special relief, with huge gaps both on the coast and in the island’s interior that create fantastic landscapes but are also very difficult to work with.

Historically, cable cars were one of the best ways to transport people and goods from the sea-level fajãs to the top of the ravines. Today, they are one of the island’s tourist attractions because they allow you to absorb the beauty of these extremes of the island through angles and perspectives almost impossible otherwise.

Madeira’s various cable cars offer fabulous views, but we have to highlight the following:

• Funchal-Monte Cable Car
• Achadas da Cruz Cable Car
• Cabo Girão Cable Car
• Rocha do Navio Cable Car

#26 One of the most popular cable cars in Madeira is the one that takes us to Monte, where the Monte Palace Gardens are located, one of the most emblematic places in Madeira.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Monte Palace was a luxurious hotel where many distinguished guests stayed. Princess Sisi of Austria is perhaps the most famous and important, but this hotel was one of the favorite resting places of the European aristocracy.

Currently, Monte Palace is a museum and a garden where we can find many exotic plants and flowers from different continents, as well as ducks, swans, peacocks, chickens, and Koi carp.

The Japanese gardens are perhaps the most recognizable part of Monte Palace, but the entire property is fabulous, with ostentatious ornamentation and delightful details. We must also highlight the important collection of tiles that includes a panel of glazed terracotta tiles and a group of 40 panels that portray the history of Portugal.

#27 Madeira’s biggest tourist attractions are of natural origin, and that’s why the island is ideal for adventurous travelers, but all tourists should take a few hours to visit the center of Funchal.

The historic center is quite beautiful, with narrow streets, old houses, and many typical shops and restaurants. Some of the places and monuments not to be missed in Funchal include:

• Fort of São Tiago
• Lavradores Market
• Marina and Boardwalk of Funchal
• Funchal Cathedral

#27 We’ve already talked about some of the best places to visit in Madeira and Porto Santo Beach, but we have barely mentioned anything about the Desertas yet. The deserts are formed by three islands: Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, Bugio.

Together, they constitute the Desert Islands nature reserve, considered a biogenetic reserve by the Council of Europe.

Fortunately or unfortunately, it’s not easy to visit the Desertas. It is only possible to go with authorized tours, and even these tours are limited to a small area of ​​Deserta Grande and can only be there for a few hours. If you still want to try, we suggest this tour.

What to Eat in Madeira

#28 As a tourist destination, Madeira has a diverse range of restaurants, especially in Funchal and the rest of the island’s south. The options are much more limited in the northern villages and towns but not necessarily of lower quality.

Thus, you will find several international food restaurants such as pizzerias, hamburgers, Indian, Chinese, Brazilian, and even African food.

#29 In addition to all the international offers, there is also traditional Portuguese and Madeiran food . Madeiran food has many similarities with mainland Portuguese. Many dishes, ingredients, and techniques are the same or similar.

In short, mainland cuisine has an evident influence on Madeira and vice versa.

#30 However, there are many distinctive Madeiran dishes, and you will hardly find them anywhere else. So, take the opportunity and try the traditional food of Madeira, namely the espetadas, the Black Scabbardfish, and the bolo do caco.

But there is more, much more. See here what to eat in Madeira.

#31 Skewers (espetadas) are one of Madeira’s most iconic dishes. Unless you are vegan/vegetarian, this is a must-try in the island.

The Madeiran skewers are typically grilled on a laurel stick, which gives them a unique aroma. In Madeiran skewers, the meat has to be of high quality and cut into meat cubes. It usually comes with bolo do caco, fried corn, and salad.

The most typical place to eat espetada is in Camara de Lobos, but it is a common dish in many restaurants around the island.

#32 Black swordfish, or simply Espada as it is known in Madeira, is the most typical fish in the region. In fact, it was once believed that it only existed in Madeira, but in the meantime, it has been discovered in other places.

Practically all fish restaurants in Madeira have a Black swordfish on the menu. The most common way to serve it is filleted (grilled or fried) with banana and sometimes with passion fruit sauce.

#33 Bolo do Caco is bread, not cake. You’ll find it all over the island, served as a starter or side dish, or even in sandwiches – the bolo do caco with a prego sandwich is absolutely delicious.

Bolo do caco is a round, flat, thin bread (about 3 cm high). It has a light dough and a thin crust. In the past, it was cooked on stone (hence the name in Portuguese), but nowadays, it is cooked in a frying pan. It is usually served hot with butter and garlic.

It’s one of the most traditional Portuguese breads and one of the most typical recipes from Madeira. It is now possible to find it also on the mainland, but it is rarely the same.

#34 Poncha is, without a doubt, the most popular drink among tourists in Madeira. It is an alcoholic drink made from Madeira Rum to which orange, tangerine, passion fruit, or lemon juice is added, as well as honey. After putting everything together, it is mixed with a specific instrument called “caralhinho”.

If the Poncha is made of lemon and instead of honey, it contains sugar, then it is called Poncha à Pescador.

Currency and Costs of Traveling in Madeira

Currency and payments.

#35 Madeira is part of Portugal and, as such, belongs in the Euro Zone. So, if you come to another Euro region, you won’t have to worry about exchange rates, fees, or commissions.

#36 If you don’t come from the Eurozone, you don’t need to bring euros with you either. The ATM network is huge, and you can withdraw money at any time, free of charge. In our experience, the costs and exchange rates are acceptable and almost always lower than the exchange rate before arriving in Portugal/Madeira.

#37 Most stores and restaurants accept debit card payments; however, some smaller ones may not accept credit cards due to the high costs for merchants.

#38 Our suggestion is to make as many payments as possible with a card as it is safer and avoids withdrawing money often/carrying a lot of cash. As in the rest of Portugal, withdrawals on the ATM network are free, but withdrawals on other networks, such as Euronet, have costs.

Costs of Traveling to Madeira

#39 Madeira is generally slightly more expensive than the average for Portugal but much cheaper than the rest of Western Europe.

It is quite difficult to anticipate what each person will spend daily in Madeira, as it depends much more on the type of traveler than on Madeira. In our experience as backpackers, we spent around 50 Euros per day per person.

However, we have to point out that increasing this value to 100 or 200 Euros is very easy if you want to stay in more expensive hotels and eat in restaurants every meal.

#40 Accommodation is probably one of the most significant expenses on any trip, and here is no exception, especially in high season, when prices double or triple compared to low season.

In Madeira, we suggest you use booking.com to book your accommodation as it has a vast variety of hotels, hostels, and even local accommodations at the best prices.

How to Travel in Madeira

Public transport.

#41 As Madeira is a relatively small and developed island, one might think it is possible to visit it by public transport, however, that would be a very bad idea.

There is good public transportation, but many tourist attractions are located in nature, far from everything, so they either have no access to public transport or are infrequent.

#42 So, we believe renting a car or taking tours is best if you don’t want to drive. This second option will, of course, be more expensive.

Given the popularity of many of the island’s attractions, it is not difficult to arrange private or group tours to visit them. Our suggestion to look for tours in Madeira is GetYourGuide . There you can find many tours which can take you to the best levadas, waterfalls, natural pools, and other places not to be missed in Madeira.

Renting a Car in Madeira

#43 Renting a car is the best way to visit Madeira. In addition to allowing enormous flexibility and taking us to almost any destination on the island, it also turns out to be cheaper. Especially if it’s a family, group, or couple trip.

With a car, we can go wherever we want, whenever we want, and stay there as long as we want. The only similar option would be to have a private guide, which is exponentially more expensive.

#44 Driving in Madeira is not particularly complicated and follows precisely the same rules as on the mainland. The only issues to have some attention are that:

• Roads are quite narrow;
• There are many roads with brutal slopes due to the natural conditions of the island;
• The Madeirans are a little impatient when driving;

Other Madeira Travel Tips

#45 Madeira is unforgettable, but who doesn’t like to take some souvenirs to remember the holidays? Or perhaps to re-experience some of the unique flavors of the archipelago… Fortunately, there are many things you can bring with you as Madeira has a unique culture. Some of our favorites are:

• “O Caralhinho” – the famous stick used to make Poncha
• Poncha – the well-known and already mentioned drink. If you try and like it, you can bring some back home. They are for sale at the airport if you don’t buy them beforehand.
• Fennel candies – although we haven’t talked about them before, they are very popular and typical in Madeira.
• Bolo de Mel – It is perhaps the most typical dessert in Madeira and has the advantage of being very durable. It can be preserved for up to a year.
• Madeira wine – one of the most famous and popular wines in Portugal

#46 Any accommodation will probably have free WIFI, so this shouldn’t be a big concern. Just confirm in the comments about the quality of the signal.

Any data card from an EU country will work in Madeira without paying extra if you want to use mobile data. If you don’t have a European data card, you can buy data cards at any telecommunications store on the island.

Garbage and pollution

#47 Generally, the island is very clean, both in the cities and natural areas. Some areas may not be ideal, but we don’t have much to criticize in that sense. Especially the natural areas are beautiful and practically immaculate.

The quality of seawater and the air is also high, which is unsurprising as the island is very far from other territories.

Electrical outlets

#48 An important thing to know before traveling to Madeira is that the electrical outlets are the same as those in mainland Portugal, type C, and F, with 230V voltage and 50 Hz frequency.

So, if you come from mainland Portugal or another country that uses these sockets, you don’t need an adapter. If you come from countries with other types of outlets, we suggest this adapter .

Documentation to enter Madeira

#49 As mentioned, Madeira is part of Portugal and the Schengen area. Thus, EU citizens do not need any special documents to enter Madeira. All you need to bring is a valid identification document, either a citizen’s card or a passport. Don’t forget your driving license if you want to rent a car.

If you come from outside the Schengen area, see here everything you need to know to enter Madeira and the Schengen area, as well as the nationalities that need to apply for a visa.

Madeira Travel Guide

#50 Finally, if you want to buy a Madeira travel guide, we suggest this Lonely Planet guide which has a lot of useful information.

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23 Unique Hidden Gems In Madeira, Portugal That Will Blow Your Mind

Looking for the coolest hidden gems and most unique things to do in Madeira? Look no further!

On my solo trip to Madeira I discovered exactly why this island is so often called the Hawaii of Europe. From misty golden sunsets to plummeting waterfalls, lush forests and azure volcanic pools, this beautiful island is filled with incredible one-of-a-kind places that will take your breath away!

To help you navigate all that this Portuguese island has to offer, I’ve put together a list of the top hidden gems and unique things to do so you can enjoy all of Madeira’s epic waterfalls, beaches hiking trials and scenic viewpoints.

1. Ponta de São Lourenço (Point of Saint Lawrence)

Ponta de São Lourenço is located at the easternmost point of Madeira Island and is a gorgeous spot with dramatic volcanic cliffs and a stunning ocean views that will take your breath away. Hike the 3.7-mile trail to see all the incredible rock formations and coastal photo opps.

2. Fanal Forest

Fanal Forest is one of the world’s only remaining Laurisilva forests, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The enchanting ancient forest is filled with centuries-old laurel trees shrouded in mist and has an ethereal atmosphere that feels like something straight out of a fairy tale.

With its unique, otherworldly charm and constantly shifting light, Fanal Forest is undoubtedly one of the most amazing hidden gems in Madeira, offering photographers endless inspiration and captivating scenery.

READ NEXT: An Enchanting Guide To Madeira’s Mysterious Fanal Forest

3. Porto Moniz Natural Pools

A visit to Porto Moniz is a must on any trip to Madeira. This coastal town leaves a lasting impression thanks to its natural rock pools, stunning ocean views, and unique volcanic landscape. For incredible photos, visit the two free saltwater lava pools this town is famous for. After all, where else can you float in a pool carved from a tongue of volcanic lava flowing into the ocean?

4. Santana Houses

The traditional Santana Madeira houses , found in the north of the island, are iconic symbols of the island’s rich cultural heritage. You won’t find anything like these traditional A-frame homes anywhere else in the world. I love their their distinctive triangular thatched roofs and red, white, and blue colors. They’re definitely a unique thing to do in Madeira and offer a look at the island’s history and traditions.

READ NEXT: Why You Should Visit Madeira ‘s Traditional Santana Houses

5. Monte Palace Botanical Gardens

Monte Palace in Funchal is home to stunning tropical gardens filled with Asian-style pagodas, walkways, and a huge collection of exotic plants and flowers. As you wander through the lush, leafy paradise, you’ll also find traditional, painted Portuguese tiles and sculptures.

6. Cascata dos Anjos (Angel’s Waterfall)

Cascata dos Anjos is a gorgeous natural waterfall located in Ponta de Sol, just 30 minutes outside of Funchal. This captivating waterfall flows directly over the road, creating a unique opportunity to drive through the cascading water. This is one of the most unique spots in Madeira!

7. Seixal Beach

Seixal is a charming village with one of the most unique black sand beaches set amongst a majestic mountain backdrop studded with cascading waterfalls. Near Porto Moniz, Seixal Beach is a 40-minute drive from Funchal with plenty of easy parking. Make your way to Seixal Bech before dawn to watch an incredible sunrise from atop the soft black sand.

READ NEXT: The 17 Best Beaches in Cascais, Portugal

8. Pico Arieiro

One of the most stunning spots in Madeira, the jaw-dropping views and steep cliffs of Pico do Arieiro , the third highest peak on the island, will fill you with an unforgettable sense of awe. This peak is famous for its beautiful 6-mile hike surrounded by mountain peaks and clouds. Keep in mind the terrain is difficult with a 3000-foot (1000m) incline on the return trip. Don’t worry, there are handrails for support!

9. Crane Viewpoint (Miradouro do Guindaste)

One place in Madeira that you won’t want to miss is Crane Viewpoint located on the island’s north coast. While it’s a little hidden, it’s totally worth finding. I truly think this is one of the most beautiful spots in all of Madeira!

The viewpoint is named after the guindaste , a type of crane that was once used to load and unload ships in the nearby port. It faces eastward, making it a great spot for sunrise shots. Visit in the morning if you want to beat the clouds and the crowds.

10. Serrado Viewpoint (Miradouro Eira do Serrado)

Madeira’s Serrado is one of the best viewpoints that gives you a clear view of the Nuns Valley, surrounded by Madeira’s lush green mountains. Situated in the mountainous interior of Câmara de Lobos, this spot is right in the heart of the island. You can get there by following a footpath starting near the Estalagem da Eira do Serrado.

11. Cabo Girao

Cape Girao is a magnificent sea cliff on the south coast of Madeira. This spot is the second-highest seacliff in the world, offering awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding island. For the best photos, head to the Cabo Girão Skywalk, a glass-floor viewpoint that sits 580 meters above the ground on Europe’s highest seacliff.

12. Garganta Funda Waterfall Viewpoint

Another stunning hidden gem to check out on your trip to Madeira is the Garganta Funda Waterfall on the west coast of the island. While most waterfalls in Madeira are located deep in the forests or along challenging levada trails, this gorgeous waterfall can be reached in a short hike.

PS: For more waterfalls, lush greenery and epic views, check out my Azores solo travel guide!

13. Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela

Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela is a set of three striking and unique rock formations located just a short drive from the natural pools of Porto Moniz. Featureing dramatic black basalt rocks that jut out of the sea, this is a must-visit for anyone exploring the island.

14. Miradouro do Ninho da Manta

Miradouro do Ninho da Manta is an incredible viewpoint located in the mountainous region of Madeira. Perched high above the valleys, it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and rugged terrain. This is one of my favorite hidden gems thanks to its stunning, magical sunrises.

15. Portela Viewpoint (Ponto Santo)

Portela Viewpoint in Ponto Santo is one of those hidden gems in Madeira that just takes your breath away. Located on the northern part of the island, it offers incredible views of the lush, green valleys and towering mountains.

16. Lavradores Market (Funchal)

Lavradores Market in Funchal is a super colorful spot. With exotic fruits and friendly local merchants, it’s perfect for your feed! Right in the heart of the city, this market is famous not just for its produce but also for its stunning Portuguese tiles. Open daily from 8 am to 7 pm.

17. Levada do Caldeirão Verde (Caldeirão Verde Hiking Trail)

No visit to Madeira is complete without hiking the Levada do Caldeirão Verde. Located on the island’s northwest coast, this moderately challenging trail offers breathtaking views and leads to the spectacular Caldeirão Verde waterfall, which plunges dramatically into a serene pool of water.

18. São Vicente Chapel

Perched on a hill in São Vicente, the charming Capelinha de Nossa Senhora de Fátima offers a fantastic view of the valley after a short climb. Catch the early morning golden light for magical photos, and don’t forget your drone for some unique aerial shots. It’s easily one of the best photo spots in Madeira!

19. Pico Ruivo

The highest peak of Madeira is another great spot with amazing views over the surrounding mountain range. Pico Ruivo has a a few different viewpoints that each off their own perspectives of the fluffy, low-hanging clouds. To reach the summit, you can choose between four different hiking trails . The easiest is Achada do Teixeira which only takes about 30 minutes and is probably best for anyone who plans to bring a tripod or other gear.

20. Véu da Noiva Viewpoint and Waterfall

When you visit Madeira, the Véu da Noiva Waterfall Viewpoint near Seixal is a must-see. It offers an incredible look at the stunning 100-meter Véu da Noiva Waterfall, which resembles a bridal veil as it flows down the cliff.

21. Seixal Natural Pools

Seixal Natural Pools are a hidden gem compared to the busier Porto Moniz Pools. These serene tidal pools are perfect for a peaceful swim in crystal-clear water, and they’re fantastic for sunrise photos, creating stunning reflections. It’s an ideal spot to connect with nature and capture unique moments without the crowds.

22. Cascata do Risco (Risco Waterfall)

At over 100 meters tall, Cascata do Risco is not just one cascading drop, but a collection of cascading streams that tumble down a moss-covered cliff, creating a mesmerizing display of natural power and beauty. The perfect spot for nature lovers, you can find the falls along the PR 6.1 Levada do Risco trail.

23. Miradouro das Neves São Gonçalo

Another stunning viewpoint, Miradouro das Neves São Gonçalo offers an unbeatable 360-degree view of Funchal, just a short drive from the city center. You can get there in about 10 minutes by car or 30 minutes using public transport from the “Téléférico Termino” stop.

RELATED POSTS:

• Madeira Solo Travel: A Magical Solo Trip Guide
• Santana Madeira Houses: Traditional Island Homes
• Fanal Forest, Madeira: Tour the Mysterious Woods
• Azores Solo Travel: An Epic Adventure Guide

The post 23 Unique Hidden Gems In Madeira, Portugal That Will Blow Your Mind appeared first on Sydney to Anywhere | Travel Blog .

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5 reasons to visit Madeira

COVID-controlled and an open option for UK travellers, the Portuguese island of Madeira is your best bet for a nature-packed, winter sun escape…

One of the best (and only) quarantine-free places UK travellers can visit for some autumn or winter heat, Madeira is undoubtedly having a moment in the sun.

An autonomous Atlantic region of Portugal set over 1,000km away from the mainland, its key restriction for travellers is a COVID test on arrival, the results of which are sent to your email 12 hours later. Travel in the late afternoon or evening, take your test, isolate while you sleep, awake to your result. Then, you can set off and explore.

Here are just five reasons to visit…

1. Its unique levada walks

Trail at Levada Do Rei through an ancient laurel forest, Madeira, Portugal (Shutterstock)

Levadas form Madeira’s unique water irrigation system. Though immediately you may not be awestruck by the concept – developed on the island when the drier southern parts of the island required water from the north – they’re actually rather interesting.

These slim, open-air channels have been dug into the ground since the 16th century, with some built as recently as 1940. Each channel carries flowing water around the island. Today, walking alongside one, on a designated trek, is considered a must-do while you’re in Madeira.

Perhaps one of the best-known is the Levada do Rei walk (also known as PR18 – each walk has its own code). The 11km trek takes between three to four hours, and this, unlike others, is a completely linear route, meaning you’ll be turning back on yourself to get back to your starting point. On the Levada do Rei, you’ll reach dizzying heights (watch out for altitude sickness), stand close to clouds, admire endless, rich green laurissilva forest, walk under a waterfall and navigate some tight tunnels.

Other options include the moderately difficult PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes, starting in Ribiero Firo (and perhaps the best-loved of all levadas), or PR10 Levada do Furado, another moderate 11km walk which ends with a dazzling descent into Portela village.

2. Funchal, the underrated capital city

The famous botanical conservatory garden in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal (Shutterstock)

The impossibly picturesque city of Funchal will often be the first port of call: the only airport on the island is near the city centre, the runway seemingly hanging off the edge of a cliff. Surrounding it are towering hills covered completely in orange-roofed houses. It’s quite an overwhelming first-look.

Wandering around (and hopefully, staying in one of its boutique hotels) and you’ll quickly discover plenty of wonderful things to see and do. The first, and most obvious, being Madeira’s premier botanical garden – small in size, but dramatic to view, particularly from a height, where its green-and-purple flora display leads on to a dramatic view over the island. Santa Catarina Park and Monte Palace Madeira also offer the chance to see art, nature and design combine.

Once you’ve paid a visit to Funchal Market, its famous cathedral, ridden the cable car and strolled down the pleasant and colourful Rua de Santa Maria you’ll probably be exhausted. If you’ve time, visit the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum – the island-born footballer may as well be Madeira’s patron saint, at this point. Rest up, and drive 35 minutes or so to Pico de Arieiro, the highest peak on the entire island.

3. The food (particularly, seafood)

Black scabbard (espada) in a fish market (Shutterstock)

With mainland Portugal visits off the cards (unless, of course, you can meet the necessary criteria for visiting), you’ll be pleased to know that the petite custard tarts (pastel de nata) Portugal is so famous for are a dime a dozen in Madeira.

Though don’t just expect a re-hash of your faves from Porto, Lisbon and other parts of the mainland. Madeira has a cuisine all its own. Most famously, it’s known for its seafood. Traditional (and at times a little unexpected) tuna and cod dishes are easy to find in restaurants, though keep your eyes peeled for the regional delight, black scabbardfish (espada preta). See if you can sample the classy Madeiran take on fish and chips using black scabbardfish. Quinta do Furao does it very well.

The ‘national dish’ of Madeira (if an autonomous region can have a ‘national dish’) would be espetada, large chunks of meat cooked on skewers with salt, garlic and bay leaves. For something a tad sweeter, expect to see plenty of banana and purple passionfruit on the menu. Trees for both can be spotted across the island, so you can expect high quality. One dish that might not be to everyone’s taste, though is a thin tomato and onion soup – with a poached egg served in the middle. Certainly worth a try!

4. Northern Madeira’s rural charm

The beautiful northern coast of Madeira (Shutterstock)

Southern areas of Madeira are known for their favourable weather (it tends to be a tad warmer) and picturesque villages. Ponta do Sol immediately springs to mind. In addition, it’s easy to reach Funchal, the capital.

Things feel much more rural in the north, unsurprising given that there are more locals living in the south. That doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do – far from it. Porto Moniz and its famous natural swimming pools, formed from lava, can be found in the north – as is some of the best whale watching off the Machico Marina.

Casas Típicas de Santana – traditional, triangle-shaped houses with thatched roofs, often painted in bright colours – can be found in Santana, a region not too far from Pico Ruvio. And tiny Prazeres, home to approximately 700 people, is well worth a visit for its peacefulness and the gorgeous views.

Locals in the north are just as warm and welcoming, though you may want to pick up a few Portuguese phrases to help you get around.

5. The potent poncha (and sweet wine)

Poncha – traditional drink of Madeira (Shutterstock)

Poncha! What a name for the local tipple, to start. Madeira’s must-try drink is mighty strong, made with aguardente de cana, a distilled drink made with sugar cane known for its 50% alcoholic volume. It’s also incredibly tart, with lashings of honey, lemon juice and sugar mixed in.

Its strength and sweetness make it easy to sip it down slowly. Do just that or else it’ll go straight to your head. If you can, try poncha at a traditional bar (look for locals, not tourists), which is often served with nuts.

Of course, if poncha punch sounds a little too intense, consider sampling Madeira’s sweet (but not nearly as strong) fortified wine instead. If you prefer a drier drink, wine from the mainland is readily available in bars and restaurants, too.

The author travelled with Discover Madeira , flew with easyJet (prices start from £24.99pp), staying at Pestana Quinta do Arco (from 57EUR per night) in the northern part of the island and Quintas das Vinhas (from 83EUR per night) in the south

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