madeira islands travel

Madeira Island

A tropical getaway.

Laurissilva Forest

Madeira Travel Guide: everything you need to know

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

What are the Madeira Islands?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Madeira Island

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

🚌 GO BY BUS ON MADEIRA ISLAND:

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

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

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

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

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

🚗 GO BY CAR ON MADEIRA ISLAND:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VISITING THE DIFFERENT ISLANDS:

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

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

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

B est Time to Visit Madeira

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

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

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

Top Things to Do in Madeira

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

Where to Stay in Madeira

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Useful Apps & Websites for Madeira

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

Is Madeira Expensive to Visit?

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

• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Total Budget

ACCOMMODATION

Transportation.

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

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

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

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

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

TOTAL BUDGET

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

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

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

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

Is Madeira Safe?

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

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

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

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

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

What to Eat and Drink?

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

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

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

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

How Long Should You Stay?

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

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

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

Recommended duration: 15 days – 20 days

Best Tips for Backpacking Madeira

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

Useful Covid-19 Travel Information

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

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

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

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

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

Would you like to write a blog post for backpackersintheworld.com? Send us an email at [email protected] or send us a DM on Instagram .

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Geologically dramatic, bursting with exotic colour and warmed year-round by the Atlantic sun, Portugal’s most enchanting island is a place that keeps all its subtropical holiday promises. Pearl of the Atlantic, island of eternal spring…Madeira well deserves its fanciful nicknames and the affection visitors and locals alike feel for this tiny volcanic island that offers so much.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Madeira. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Quinta das Cruzes

Now a museum, the Quinta das Cruzes is a quintessential old Madeiran manor house complete with gardens and a private chapel. Originally the home of João…

Mercado dos Lavradores

Built in 1940 by architect Edmundo Tavares, Funchal's art deco market is one of its top attractions as well as still serving as the island's best fresh…

Once a run-down area between the Mercado dos Lavradores and the Fortaleza de Santiago, in recent years the 'Old Zone' of merchant's houses and 19th…

Funchal's 16th-century cathedral once oversaw the world's largest diocese – all of Portugal’s overseas territories from Madeira to Brazil to Angola – and…

Praia Formosa

Anyone who says Madeira has no beaches should hop on bus 1 or 43 to the boulders and browny-black sand of this wild strand in Funchal's western suburbs…

Jardins Botânicos da Madeira

One of the island's top tourist attractions, Madeira's famous botanical gardens are a must for most visitors. Extending over 80,000 sq metres, the gardens…

Pereira D'Oliveira

Run by the fifth generation of the D'Oliveira family, this is Funchal's most easily accessible wine experience. Anyone can enter the strongly aromatic…

Curral das Freiras

Dramatically set at the bottom of a mammoth cauldron of rock, the village of Curral das Freiras is one of the most popular daytrips from Funchal. Some…

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Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

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Madeira Island's complete tourism destination guide!

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

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

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

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

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

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

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

THINGS TO DO

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

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

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

Shopping in Madeira

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

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

PLACES TO SEE

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

Funchal – Europe’s most picturesque and cleanest capital

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

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

WEATHER & CLIMATE

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

WHERE TO STAY

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

LIVE WEBCAMS

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

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

Funchal Marina LiveCam 1

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

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

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

EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS

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

Images & Videos

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

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The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Madeira

Did you know that Europe had its own Hawaii?

Yes, that's right!

Portuguese archipelago Madeira is often compared to Hawaii and I do not wonder why anymore. During my visit in May 2018 it has surprised me so much how many similarities Madeira and Hawaii islands really had.

Madeira is such an incredible place to visit and for many reasons. Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon , family vacation , if you travel for adventure or if you just wish to escape less gloomy weather . Another name Madeira has been called is the island of eternal spring, so expect pleasant temperatures and fresh air pretty much all year round.

Madeira truly is a European gem which suits to every traveller and you should visit the islands as soon as possible . Each year Madeira is experiencing more and more visitors. Whether you want to swim with dolphins, explore deep canyons, or enjoy delicious dinner at the beach, go and book your ticket now.

I spent in Madeira one week in May 2018 and wanted to share my experience and a little bit of knowledge. Let's take a look on this very detailed guide, where I share with you some of the best places to see, adventures to enjoy, how to travel around the island, where to stay, what to pack, what to eat and a few more handy tips . Are you ready with a big bowl of popcorn?

When is the best time to go to Madeira

If you want to avoid crowds

When I was searching for the best time to visit Madeira, many people were talking about how busy Madeira is at any time of the year. Honestly, that scared me a bit because as you might already know, I don't like crowded places. In fact, I love exactly the opposite. I am not looking for parties or any Eiffel Towers, or Niagara Falls, or Hollywood signs where I have to deal with too many people.

But my fear melted really quickly when we arrived to Madeira. Of course, there are crowded places like almost in any other destination, but it's very easy to avoid them if you want to. I am talking now especially about Funchal and some other places in the southern island. But nothing crazy  - and that means a lot coming from someone like me :)) Northern and Eastern part of Madeira is less crowded in general.

When you want to avoid crowds and book the best hotels without any problem, try to avoid summer holidays. In fact, try to avoid any kind of holidays in general, like Christmas or Eastern. But that's a tip for visiting almost any destination, right?

If you want the best weather... hmmm, what's the best weather?

Good news! Weather in Madeira doesn't have to play a big part in vacation planning. The temperatures are nicely stable throughout the year which makes Madeira a dream destination! Although winter can be slightly more rainy with lower temperatures in the night and early mornings.

Do you want to come when there's the most sunny and dry weather?  Then June is your best bet, but anything between March to September will work too

Are you planning to do lots of hiking and walking? Then April and May are the best months to visit. Any later might get a bit hot for walking, and winter/early spring can be rainy (can be, but not talking about rainy season like they have in Asia ,)

April and May are also the best months to go to Madeira for enjoying all the beautiful flowers ? So if you're keen to visit one of the world's most beautiful garden which is in Funchal, if you want to those iconic sceneries with flowers in the foreground, or rather flowers everywhere, April and May it is.

Madeira is also famous for swimming with whales and dolphins . If you are planning to do anything like this, then the best time to come is between April and October. That's when the highest number of mammal species are in waters of Madeira.

How to get to Madeira

Although, from one quick look at the map, it may seems that getting to Madeira is long and pricey journey, it's not really true.

Nowadays there are many direct flight from Europe which can cost you under 200 dollars return. Those flights can take only about three four hours. You can try connections from London , Amsterdam or Lisboa . But there are many more cities you can fly to Madeira. See them all here .

My go to website to find  the cheapest flights  possible is  Momondo , so definitely check that one first and go from there. If you have any doubts and questions about how to reach Madeira, feel free to send me a message and I'll be happy to help you.

How long should I plan my vacation for?

I only had a spare week and even before I went to Madeira, I had a feeling that it won't be enough. And I was more than right. Yes, you can see the most beautiful/popular places in Madeira in just a week, but hands down, you will be rushing. 

If you can, I would recommend you to stay at least 10 days ! And if you have three weeks, then fine, take it slowly and soak all the relaxing vibes in!

I know, I know, Madeira seems like a tiny island, so you are probably asking now, holly molly, what would I do there for three weeks?! But trust me, there are so many hikes, adventures, culture, and beautiful viewpoints to enjoy, that you will be thanking me for those three weeks :)

What to pack?

When packing for your holidays, please remember that it's not a tropical island you're going to . Frankly, if you are looking for a tropical vacation, white sand beaches and hot hot air, then Madeira is probably not the best pick. There are not so many beaches, all of them (on the main island) are black because of their volcanic origin and water for swimming is quite cold as well.

Madeira is a diverse island and even though at the beach is 25°C or more, within half an hour driving up to 1800 meters above sea lever, temperatures can drop down to zero and wind will be so strong that you will have troubles to stand straight.

Before I will write more detailed post on what to pack and what to leave behind, here is the quick sum up (linked products are the ones I have an experience with and that I am genuinely recommending):

• day backpack
• water bottle
• comfortable walking / hiking shoes
• flip flops / sandals
• warm hoodie / sweater (some days and places are cooler than others)
• softshell jacket (you can thank me later)
• rain jacket
• headlamp (if you plant to hike some of the trails with long dark tunnels)
• waterproof camera/phone case (if you are going to do canyoning / coasteering / swimming with dolphins and whales)

How to get around

When in Madeira you will have have pretty much four options to explore this green island:

• Base yourself in Funchal and hire a taxi driver
• Base yourself in Funchal and book day tours
• Base yourself in Funchal and get around by bus

1. RENT A CAR

Definitely the most convenient way how to explore the island. I probably don't have to name all the reason why renting your own car is the best. It will save you time, nerves and very probably lots of money as well.

• The best deal we found was via rentalcars.com and we only paid around $250 USD for an economy class car for the whole week!!
• I recommend to pay extra for a full insurance , especially if you are not use to drive tight roads. I've been travelling and driving a lot in my life, but nothing was as crazy as Madeira's roads.
• Also, try to avoid renting mini cars . You will need a strong car to get you up the steep hills with no big issues. And make sure you get the most compact car possible. Especially in towns, parking spots are not very spacious and you will be sweating (at least if you're not a parking master just as me, haha).
• Over a week we drove around the island, and criss crossed it many times and one tank of gas was sufficient. We paid 75 EUR for a full tank.

2. BASE YOURSELF IN FUNCHAL AND HIRE A TAXI DRIVER

If you don't want to/ can't drive yourself, but still you want to stay as independent as possible, you can hire a taxi driver. 

In Madeira there are plenty of taxi operators who are offering a various taxi excursions. It will cost you around 100-120 EUR per day (60 EUR / half day) per car (4 people). If you're a bigger group of people (up to 8), it's also possible for an additional cost.

Some of the taxi companies/drivers you can look into:

• Daniel Madeira Taxis
• Madeira Island Taxis
• Manuel Taxi Tours
• Madeira Travel Taxi

3. BASE YOURSELF IN FUNCHAL AND BOOK DAY TOURS

If you like things nicely organized and don't plan to rent a car, this could be a perfect option for you.

You can book some great tours in Madeira with Get Your Guide . They offer a wide variety of activities suitable for anyone.

4. BASE YOURSELF IN FUNCHAL AND GET AROUND MADEIRA BY BUS

Exploring Madeira is definitely the best option for those who seek the cheapest vacation possible. But it sure comes at a cost - you will spend lots of time waiting for buses, trying to figure out schedules and places, you won't afford to be flexible and free and most likely you will miss plenty of breathtaking places that are not on the route of the public buses. 

Yes, public transport in Madeira works well, but frankly, I don't recommend it.

There are three kinds of buses :

• orange buses - operate only within Funchal city and its surroundings, you can buy one week unlimited bus ticket for 15 Euros (buses routes and schedules Horários do Funchal )
• red buses - operate in the western part of Madeira (buses routes and schedules Rodoeste  bus service)
• green buses - operate in the eastern part of Madeira (buses routes and schedules SAM  bus service)

Tickets for all bus services can be purchased onboard.

Driving those crazy roads

I am not a scared driver and I've been driving many insane roads around the world, but Madeira is special. Please note, that the last thing I want to do is to scare you. I am writing this so you know what to expect and so you can be more conscious. And I am convinced that driving Madeira roads is part of the travel experience. 

Madeira is full of long tunnels, steep driveways and sharp curves above the cliffs. Nothing for faint hearted. Roads are often not very specious, which is something you might won't be adjusted to when coming from North Americas or so. But again, you got this! Just drive slowly and you'll be sweet.

As I mentioned above, I recommend you to rent a more powerful car and get a car insurance.

Also it can take really long time to ge from point A to B. Sometimes we were driving 15 kilometres in 17 minutes. Why? Imagine rain, thick fog, steep and curvy roads and there you go. Always count with some extra time for driving in Madeira. Especially in the mountains and on the west and north coast.

Where to stay

Since Madeira is such a small island, you can get around the island in a day. That's the reason why most of the tourists stay in Funchal and do day trips from there. I did it differently which I will describe soon.

Advantages of having an accommodation in Funchal: 

• you can choose from many delicious restaurants and vibrant bars
• you can do shopping if that's something you like to do on your vacation
• you can choose the accommodation that suits the best to your budget and other preferences
• most of tour operators are offering tours from Funchal

Disadvantages of having and accommodation in Funchal:

• because most of tourists stay there when visiting Madeira, city centre can get crowded
• since the tourism boomed, Funchal centre is less authentic than other parts of Madeira
• obviously, you will always have to drive back to Funchal after long day of touring to other sides of the island

What's my recommendation?

To each their own, but here's what I did during my one week in Madeira:

I am not a huge fan of cities and crowded in generally, but I still wanted to explore around beautiful and historical Funchal. Therefore I decided to  stay in Funchal for one night . After that I moved for three days to Ponta do Sol in the south coast of the island and last three days I was in Ponta Delgada at the north.

After our trip, me and my friend we agreed that it was the greatest plan for a week in Madeira we could have ever had. It was never too far to any places we planned to visit, therefore never too tiring to be coming back to our accommodation.

If you only have a week I wouldn't recommend to stay in more than 2-3 places as you will feel like always packing and unpacking.

Here is an interactive map of places where I stayed, so you can imagine the distances of places I stayed (and the airport) a little better:

Accommodation in Funchal

If you decide to stay in Funchal, you can choose from hundreds of different types of accommodation that suits your budget. As always, I recommend my favourite search engine  Booking.com   to find the best deals.

Since we were looking for a place just for one night, we had only a few conditions. It had to be a private room with bathroom, within a short walk to the city centre with free parking and under 50 EUR / night per room.

Free parking combined with the city centre of Funchal was the hardest one to find, but  Pensao Residencial Mirasol  seemed had it all. Free parking, in the city centre, with a private bathroom and also a cute little balcony with mountain views . We only paid 38 EUR / night per room including continental breakfast!! The owners and staff here are really friendly, so there's no wonder that budget travellers keep staying here for weeks.

Various high rated places to stay in Funchal:

Madeira Happy Hostel

Vitorina Corte Guesthouse

Monumental Apartment

Quinta Sao Goncalo

Residencial Pina

ARTS IN Hotel Conde Carvalhal

The Cliff Bay - PortoBay

Quinta Jardins do Lago

Belmond Reid's Palace

Accommodation in Ponta do Sol

Ponta do Sol is a lovely little coastal town and probably the sunniest place on the whole island . During our three days in Ponta do Sol it was really ALWAYS sunny although there was rain or overcast in other parts of Madeira.

We were invited to stay in Estalagem do Ponta do Sol and my oh my! We've never stayed in any similar place to this. It was such a paradise with the best views you could imagine.

Since Estalagem do Ponta do Sol hotel is built on the high cliff, you need to take multiple elevators to get to the reception and your room itself.The views from our room and basically from anywhere within the hotel were nothing short of spectacular and you could watch both sunrise and sunset from the infinite pool.

Estalagem is a peaceful complex with beautiful gardens and modern exteriors and interiors. You can relax in a hot tub with sunset views, you can get your favourite cocktail bar with crazy views or play a table pool in one of the public spaces. Oh, and did I mention breakfasts? Buffet breakfast is included  in the price of the room and something we looked forward to each morning. D-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s!

During our stay there was a lack of parking spots below the hotel, but it's because there was a festival and parking spots were precious. The staff of the hotel were super helpful and when we brought our car keys to them, they were more than happy to park our car for us.

Accommodation in Ponta Delgada

Our accommoddation for last three days was up in the north coast in Ponta Delgada. North was a completely different experience than the south. There was way less tourists, and moutains forests and cute vineyards were everywhere. 

We stayed in Casa do Miradouro and if you are looking for a place to find the peace, this magical villa has it all . Mountains and vineyards behind the house and amazing ocean views in front. From the photos I knew, that sunrises and sunsets from this place are incredible. Unfortunately we did not see the sun at all during our stay, but the rainy mood was suiting this place just as much plus it was a perfect for soak in the hot tub. The villa consist of only three apartments, so we have had plenty of privacy. And I can't imagine better place for my yoga practise and everyday meditation.

We loved the design of the villa, but even more we loved that it is enviromentally sustainable building  (for example cork insulation, natural materials used in interior, solar water heating, no chemicals in the garden). 

If you stay in Casa do Miradouro, please ask Zelio to cook for you! Zelio not only takes care of the villa but he's also amazing cook and a lovely company. We spent last evening with him and he cooked the best food we've tried in Madeira. Fresh fish and limpets with a light cheese dessert were amazing and he deserves nothing less than a Michelin star! So please please please, don't miss out this once in a lifetime opportunity! :)

Live like a local

Are you looking to live like a local or always keen to have unique accommodation experience? Then definitely check AirBnB in Madeira  (if you register through this link, you will get up to 35 dollars to spend for your first stay.)

AirBnB in Madeira is very popular and the list of accommodations is full of design villas, cottages on the clifs or luxurious tents in forests . Just hop on the AirBnB website and explore. The prices are really friendly!

Live with the locals

If you are outgoing and want to meet and live with locals and also if you are a lowcost traveller, you can also try Couchsurfing .

Insider's Tip: Please don't do couchsurfing just for the sake of free accommodation. That's not what this wonderful community is about. It's about sharing. Sharing time, sharing experience and making each others life richer. If you don't feel like talking to someone when travelling, but don't have money for hotels, please look for different options like hostels :) I barely do couchsurfing lately, because after long day of travelling or exploring, I am just happy to sit on my bed and don't talk to anyone, but if I want to talk to someone I can always get out of the hotel and go exploring.

What to see?

So much to see and so much to do in Madeira, that one month wouldn't be enough to explore it all throughout. (I am working on detailed itineraries, so feel free to subscribe to my newsletter . Once it's ready I can send it to you directly into your mailbox).

Here's an interactive map of interesting places, photography spots, view points, activities and restaurants I created for my trip. Of course I didn't have time to do and see everything in a week, but thought it could help you to create your own trip :)

Tropical Garden Monte Palace

Madeira is a paradise for flora lovers. So many flowers and trees, so many colours and heavenly smells.

One of the places you can admire flora the most is Jardim Tropical Monte Palace in Funchal. You will find there some rare flora species both from Madeira and the rest of the world. The entrance fee is 12,50 EUR.

The most popular way to get to the gardens is to take a cable car from the city center . Return ticket is 16 EUR (11 for one way). If you buy just one way ticket, you can experience something truly unique and something what only in Madeira can be experienced :) You can do tobogganing in a wicker basket mounted on wooden runners . It was invented by Madeirans already in 1850 as a form of transportation down the steep hills (did they have to drag it back after?). When you are at the top nearby tropical garden, look for handsome guys in white shirts holding onto the big basket sled.

Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro

Please, make yourself a favour, get up early and drive about 30 minutes from Funchal up to about 1800 metres above the sea level. Most likely you will be driving through the rain and clouds and will be cursing me why would I recommend you such a crazy thing. But hold on and you will eventually  get above the clouds and experience one of the most beautiful sunrises of your life. And all without any huge effort - you can get all the way to the top of the Pico do Arieiro just by your car. 

Tip: Get ready for strong winds and cold temperatures especially early in the morning. I was so happy I've had my icelandic sweater and softshell jacket with me. Wished to have a hat as well. Just be prepared, so you can enjoy the beautiful views. 

This is a must stop when you are in Madeira. I won't be taking it away from you, because with its 580m it's the tenth highest cliff that is above the sea (the highest one is Mitre Peak in New Zealand) and so the views are truly amazing. It's usually packed with lots of tourist and honestly, I enjoyed some of the views in Madeira way better. So, at the end of the day, I don't think I would miss much if I wouldn't go there. But if you are curious and have enough time, definitely give it a go.

Sugar Cane Factory Museum

In Calheta you will find this very unique exhibition , which can make a nice stop when you are driving on the south coast. You can see here how the rum is made from start to finish.

The admission is free and for a small fee you can try different rums.

Ponta do Pargo

To me, this was one of the most beautiful spots I've seen during a week of travelling in Madeira. It's the most western point in Madeira with a lovely lighthouse and absolutely gorgeous cliff views. I could have been sitting there for hours, watching the waves crashing along the shore!

This place is a perfect spot for watching sunset and you won't be sharing it with many. Very likely you'll be here alone when coming later in the evening.

Achadas da Cruz

This place must be on of the best kept secrets in Madeira! By taking a 3 EUR (return) cable car ride off the cliff, you'll get to in Fajã da Quebrada Nova. It somewhat looks like a tiny village but in real, nobody lives there. Some farmers come down from time to time and take care of their land. You can only get there by a boat or a cable car, or hike a steep trail down and back up. It's so beautiful, colourful, remote and looks like a scene from a historic/fantasy movie. It's easy and worthy to spend there at least two hours. Just so you know :) 

The cable car operates from 10am to 6pm every day unless the weather conditions like strong winds won't allow it. It happened to us, so we called them and came back two days afterwards.

The phone number is +351 291 852 951.

(During this trip, my fog was foggy inside, hens this dreamy effect on the photos bellow).

Porto Moniz

On the western part of the island you find something unique, something you might have never seen before. Beautiful lava pools filled with turquoise clear water from the ocean were converted into something we can call a spa. For a small fee 1,50 EUR (free for children under 3yrs) you can go and have a swim in several pools of different depth while enjoying waves crashing against the beautiful cliffs.

The pools are the most popular between July to September when the air temperature is around sweet 25°C and water is bearable 21°C. 

Tip: If you will walk in Porto Moniz towards the eastern part of the town, where is the Cachalote restaurant, you will find there similar lava pools . They are a bit smaller, but they are free and usually with less people.

Sao Vicente Caves

If you are a fan of geology, then you shouldn't miss these volcanic caves Sao Vicente.

A walk through the lava tubes takes about 30 minutes and admission is 8 EUR.

Traditional houses in Santana

Traditional Madeira houses are amongst the most popular attractions and nobody seems to be leaving Madeira without visiting them. It can be a nice short stop, but frankly, don't you expect more than seeing a few iconic houses that you know from the postcards and magazines. I know some people came from there disappointed and gave it bad ratings on Tripadvisor. It is nice, it is traditional and highly photogenic, so come without any expectations and enjoy. 

Ponta de São Lourenço

Situated on the eastern tip of the island Ponta de São Lourenço is a great place for sunrise. This place is quite unreal and looking totally different than the rest of Madeira. You can easily spend here the whole day, walking about 8 km of trails with spectacular coastal views. I recommend to stay reserve at least two hours, so you can enjoy a bit of this place without rushing.

Tip: Ponta de São Lourenço is a popular place and also it is very easy to reach from Funchal and other nearby towns. Hence the parking lot starts to fill up early in the morning. After 11 am the line of the cars is really long and there is quite a bit of tourists and hikers on the trail. So, wake up early, enjoy the sunrise and disappear before the crowds arrive.

Things to do

For such a small island, Madeira has so much to offer in terms of adventuring and activites . Just find something that suits you the best.

Swim with whales and dolphins

There are not so many places where you can swim both with dolphins and whales in one day. But did I already said that Madeira has it all?

If you only want to do dolphin and whale watching, I highly recommend to go with Lobosonda . They are environmentally responsible family owned company and I really liked that they always put animals on first place. On our complimentary trip with Lobosonda we had an amazing guide Fatima, a very kind lady with a great knowledge of the ocean mammals and also marine ecology.

We started at 10am and boarded Ribeira Brava, the traditional fishing boat and launched towards the open ocean. After some time Fatime has pointed her finger towards the ocean where a school of dolphins appeared. Since then we saw more and more dolphins and I am sure we saw more than a hundred that day. And four different species! The water surface literally looked like a one big marine party!

When to go? The best time to watch or swim with dolphins and whales is summer. That's when the highest amount of marine mammals species are gathering in waters of Madeira. Also the waves are more gentle and water warmer. But like any other tours and activities, you can also do this at any time of the year.

Now, canyoning is a big thing in Madeira. I didn't know much about canyoning before I arrived. And surprisingly, it became a highlight of my trip.

Did you know that Madeira is one of the world's prime locations for canyoning (and there are not as many as you might would think)? Well, then put one and one together and you know you can't leave this island without trying canyoning at least once.

I did a wonderful tour with Francisco and Joao from Epic Madeira   and it was absolutely fabulous. Our Intermediate tour included rappelling down the 50m waterfall (you can try a beginner tour for the beginning if you are new to any kind of hiking or climbing). The tour took us almost five hours and I couldn't stop smiling of joy! 

Coasteering

Have you heard about coasteering? No? Then it's two of us. Till now tho :)

Coasteering is basically walking along the coastline in the wetsuit and the helmet and jumping to the ocean whenever it's possible  and also includes snorkelling in crystal clear waters.

Yes, you hear me right! Doesn't it sound great? I was a little sad that we didn't have more days in Madeira as it sounds like a lots of fun (you know I love to dive to water from high cliffs :) ). I save it for the next time then!

You can do coasteering also with my friends from Epic Madeira .

Day boat trips to nearby islands

Madeira archipelago consists of four islands . If you have a little bit more time, you will love exploring some of them as they are so different from what you will see on the main island.

Porto Santo - once you start to miss sandy beaches, hop on the boat and enjoy a day on the small island of Porto Santo where you will find 9 km beach of golden sand and breath taking views

Deserta Island and Farol Island (by a catamaran) - while Madeira has black sand beaches and Porto Santo which beaches, Deserta and Farol islands are having white sand beaches , so it's a completely different world again

Kayak / SUP

You can take lessons or tours to breathtaking sea caves with Azul Diving Center .

Paragliding

Let's fly over the mountains, over the ocean with  Madeira Paragliding .

Horse riding

You can also see the island from the horseback if you want to! Check guys at  Quinta do Riacho .

Scuba diving and Snorkelling

Madeira is an outstanding scuba diving destination. And together with Azores it makes the largest whale sanctuary in the world! Scuba diving here is so diverse as you can spot anything from ship wrecks, manta rays, dolphins or the whales. Also the water visibility is amazing (talking about 20m!) 

There are a few diving centers like Atalaia Diving Center , Azul Diving Center Madeira , Explora Madeira Diving Center  (they also offer freediving).

Surfing and bodyboarding

There are some wonderful breaks for surfing. In fact Madeira is one of the best surfing locations in Europe.  All the breaks are in the west part of the island . For a beginner, there is only one sand beach to learn and it's in Porto do Cruz. Rest of the spots are quite rocky. If you want to learn surf in Madeira, then the best time is summer. In summer the waves are coming not so quickly, so you will struggle less. 

You can take classes, rent a gear with Madeira Surf Camp  or Calhau Surf School .

If fishing is something you enjoy, then you are in the right place! Madeira has some of best fishing areas in the world. Fish for Tuna and Blue Marlins! You can choose between half-day and full day fishing boat tours .

All around the island is about 2000 km of trails , many of them being popular levadas - irrigation channels. Various trails will take you along the coast, accross the mountains and through the valleys full of waterfalls and beautiful forests. Some of them are easy walks and some of them require certain level of hiking experience. But there is something for everyone.

There is a phone app for hiking in Madeira that is called  WalkMe . It includes navigation, offline maps and more than 50 hikes and is definitely worth the 5 Euros!

Remember that if you don't feel like hiking alone, you can always take a tour or hire a private hiking guide .

Some of the most beautiful and popular hikes are:

• Vereda do Arieiro (PR 1) - Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo route is considered to be the hardest but also the most beautiful on the island. I would say it's not as hard if you are use to do some walking and hiking. Reconsider to go if you are too scared of heights tho :). To truly enjoy this hike without unnecessary rushing, allow yourself a full day.
• Levada do 25 Fontes (PR 6)  - Probably the most famous levada, so early morning or late afternoon start is necessary if you want to avoid crowds.
• Levada do Caldeirao Verde (PR 9) - Very fun hike going through a couple of long tunnels (take a headlamp with you) and it ends with fantastic 100m waterfall
• Vereda do Larano  - This hike starting at Machico will allow you to see absolutely amazing ocean views. It is recommended for experienced hikers with sturdy boots as there are some sketchy parts. And if you are unsure, you can always do the guided tour .
• Vereda da Ponta do Sao Lourenco (PR 8)  - this very east part of the island looks like another world. There are no trees, the rock formations you will see have incredible colours and the ocean and cliff views are nothing short of spectacular!

Mountain Biking

Seriously, who would voluntarily go and ride those crazy hills of Madeira? Haha, I wouldn't, but I know some of my friends would love that! Again, you can go with the epic team from Epic Madeira .

Jeep Safari

Explore secret and hidden places in the valleys and mountains with jeep tours . This way you will get the chance to also explore famous laurissilva forests , the evergreen and believed to be primary forests on Madeira. Definitely something you should see.

Catamaran Sunset Tours

Sunsets in Madeira are absolutely spectacular and to watch them from the boat will take your breath away!

What to eat and drink

Fish and seafood is very popular food of locals and tourist. Amongst the typical fish and seafoodd that you can try in Madeira is:

• Codfish (Bacalhau)
• Tuna fish (Atum)
• Black swordfish (Espada) - my personal favourite, it has a fery soft meat which taste is very close to lobster
• Octopus (Polvo)
• Limpets (Lapas)

Important note : Before ordering a fish in restaurant, please ask them whether is the fish from a fish farm of from the ocean. Recently, in Madeira they are dealing with an ecologic disaster that are fish farms. For one kilogram of fish from the farm is needed about 12 kg of fish from the ocean - crazy, huh? Plus fish from the farm is treated with antibiotics, so not only you eat something you really don't want to eat, but also all the antibiotics go into the ocean, causing fatal problem in the ecosystem

Espetada Madeirense is another favourite meal in Madeira. It's beef cubes on skewer grilled on wood or charcoal.

Honey cake  (bolo de mel de cana) is one of the main desserts and you will be able to buy it in almost any souvenir shop. It's not made from honey but dark sugar cane molasses with nuts and sultanas in it. It is very rich, and should last long months after it's baked. Well, we ate it in two days because it was so delicious!

Probably the most popular drink on the island is wine which is world famous. Beautiful vineyards are all around the island! Also it's very cheap, be ready to pay for a bottle of wine in the store 2 - 3 euros, yay!

The most traditional drink of Madeira is poncha  and unless you are a person who never touches the alcohol, you shouldn't leave Madeira without trying it. It's made from brandy cane sugar, bee honey and lemon juice. I am a baby drinker and can't even smell rum without instantly feeling like throwing out, but surprisingly I really enjoyed drinking poncha. But be careful, it's as strong as it is delicious :) They say that the best poncha is to be found in Taberna da Poncha in Serra de Água.

Useful resources whilst you are in Madeira

Accommodation - www.booking.com

Live webcams all around the island - www.netmadeira.com

Weather updates - www.vedur.is

Flight connections to Madeira (from Europe) - Airlines & Airports

Phone app for hiking in Madeira - WalkMe  (available for Android and iOS) 

Have a question? Feel free to ask in the comments below.

Wanna know what camera gear I use?

Thank you for reading and go ahead and  follow me on facebook  or instagram to explore the world with me as I publish pictures and stories along the way.

*Thank you Estalagem da Ponta do Sol , Casa do Miradouro , Epic Madeira and  Lobosonda for having us. As always the opinions are of my own.

**Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission if you make a booking using the link. It won't cost you a penny but it will help me to maintain this website and write more helpful articles in future. 

  ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Oh hello! Welcome to my page where we all are allowed to Dream Big and we all are encouraged to Wander Far. My name is Marti and  here you can read more about me . I am originally from Czech Republic and my story isn't different from stories of many other travellers - in 2011 I quit my well-paid job in film industry to travel the world which was always my dream. I visited 70+ countries and you can find me exploring deserted islands in South Pacific or diving with whale sharks in Philippines, prospecting for gold in New Zealand or building an igloo above the Polar Circle. Let's join me on my journey around the globe!

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MADEIRA TRAVEL GUIDE

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

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

INTRODUCTION TO MADEIRA

Why shall you visit Madeira?

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

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

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

BEST TIME TO VISIT MADEIRA

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

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

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

HOW LONG TO STAY IN MADEIRA

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

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

WHERE TO STAY IN MADEIRA

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

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

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

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

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

Best hotels in Madeira

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

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

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Entry requirements/visa.

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

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

Opening hours

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

Banks : 8.30am–3pm Monday to Friday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

Electricity

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

Packing List

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

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

HOW TO GET TO MADEIRA

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

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

Getting from/to the airport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOW TO GET AROUND

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

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

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

By Scooter/Motorbike

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

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

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

Bolt & Uber (taxi apps) operate in Madeira providing lower prices than traditional taxis.

The association  AITRAM  provides taxi services to various tourist routes in Madeira by buying a taxi voucher online.

  By Bus

There are 4 companies with their own website for checking public transport in Madeira: Horários do Funchal , SAM , EACL & Rodoeste .

Horários do Funchal serve Funchal city and its suburbs up to Monte and Camara de Lobos.

SAM  and  EACL  bus services serve the east of Madeira (Caniço, Santa Cruz, Madeira Airport, Machico, and Porto da Cruz).

Rodoeste , serves the west side of Madeira (Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira brava, Ponta do Sol, Madalena do Mar, Calheta, Porto Moniz and São Vicente).

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK

Best places to go for a meal are  Funchal city centre and the Lido Area where most hotels are located. The food in Madeira

Best restaurants in Madeira

• The Ritz Madeira          
• Taberna Madeira          
• Doca do Cavacas          
• Restaurante Gavião Novo: Authentic dining in the heart of the Old Town for sampling the local cuisine 
• Il Gallo D’Oro : Michellin star gourmet restaurant
• Regional Flavours       
• Restaurante Vila do Peixe: Great seafood restaurant with a view.
• Casa Madeirense Restaurant
• Dona Amelia : A long-established restaurant
• Galáxia Skyfood | Skybar

You can check the location of these restaurants on this  map .

Local Specialities

• Espetada : Barbecued beef skewers 
• Bolo de Mel : A traditional cake
• Bolo do Caco : Flatbread with garlic
• Lapas : Grilled limpets with garlic butter
• Bacalhau : Salted Cod
• Espada : Scabbard fish
• Picado : Fried pieces of beef with garlic and peppers
• Prego : Grilled steak sandwich
• Chestnut sweets from Curral Das Freiras
• Local fruits : passion fruit varieties, banana, delicious fruit (monstera deliciosa), anona (custard apple), guava, loquat, prickly pear & pitanga
• Madeira wine : a fortified wine for drinking and cooking. There are four major types of Madeira wine: Malvasia, Bual (or Boal), Verdelho, and Sercial, the latter two being drier.
• Poncha : a traditional alcoholic drink made of sugar cane rum, honey and lemon juice.

MADEIRA ATTRACTIONS best things to see and do

Funchal is the capital of Madeira and the main hub. It is a beautiful city , built amphitheatrically on the surrounding green hills and Funchal’s suburbs spread all the way up to Monte . It is the best place to stay as it offers all the tourist amenities and has lots of attractions and things to do. It has a nice old town with atmospheric narrow street s and mosaic pavements , historical buildings , public parks and a nice marina.

Best attractions and things to do in Funchal:

• Funchal Old Town (Zona Velha) : The historic centre of Funchal is known for its narrow streets, colourful houses, and wide selection of restaurants and bars. It’s a great place to wander and soak up the local atmosphere.
• Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ Market) : This bustling market is a fantastic place to sample local fruits, vegetables, flowers, and traditional Madeiran products. It’s also a great spot to buy souvenirs.
• Funchal Cathedral (Sé Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Assunção) : The cathedral is an impressive example of Portuguese Gothic architecture. Its interior is equally stunning, with beautiful wooden ceilings.
• Visit Monte with its beautiful gardens: Jardim Botanico & Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
• Madeira Cable Car : Take a cable car ride from the Old Town to the picturesque village of Monte. The views of Funchal and the surrounding landscapes are breathtaking.
• Palheiro Gardens : These magnificent gardens are set on a hill overlooking Funchal. You can explore the beautiful gardens and enjoy the views. The adjacent Palheiro Golf Course is also a great place for golf enthusiasts.
• CR7 Museum : For football fans, the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum celebrates the life and career of the famous Portuguese footballer. It’s located in Funchal’s port area.
• Quinta das Cruzes Museum : This museum is located in a beautiful old manor house and contains an impressive collection of art, furniture, and artifacts from Madeira’s history.
• Santa Catarina Park : This peaceful park offers a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It features lush greenery, walking paths, and beautiful sea views.
• Madeira Wine Cellars : Madeira is famous for its wine. You can visit one of the wine cellars in Funchal to learn about the winemaking process and sample different types of Madeira wine.
• Quinta da Boa Vista : Another historical garden, this one features a range of exotic plants, fountains, and statues, making it a great place to stroll and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
• Funchal Marina : The marina is a lively area with restaurants, shops, and a great place for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

Monte village is located on the hill above Funchal and used to be a healthy retreat from the busy capital in the 18th century. Now it still has this cool, clean country air. The best way to reach Monte is by cable car from Funchal. It is a beautiful ride providing great views of the city and the surrounding mountains and coastline. The best way to return is by ridding a toboggan back to Funchal.

Best attractions and things to do in Monte:

• Monte Cable Car : The cable car is a popular way to reach Monte from Funchal. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and the coastline as you ascend the hill.
• Nossa Senhora do Monte Church : This charming church is dedicated to Our Lady of the Mount.
• Monte Palace Tropical Garden : This beautiful botanical garden features a wide range of exotic plants, koi ponds, and panoramic views of Funchal. You can also explore the Madeira Story Centre nearby.
• Madeira Botanical Garden : This botanical garden showcases an extensive collection of Madeiran and exotic plants. The garden is set on a hillside and offers lovely views of the city.
• Monte Toboggan Rides : A fun and unique experience in Monte is taking a traditional wicker toboggan ride down the hill. Riders are dressed in white and straw hats, and two men guide the sledges on the steep streets.

3. Curral Das Freiras (Nun’s Valley)

This hidden valley with a little village is a stunning spot surrounded by dramatic cliffs and chestnut woods. It was used by the nuns of the Santa Clara Convent as a refuge. The highlight of any visit is the spectacular view of the valley from the miradouro of Eira do Serrado. You can walk also walk down to the village from there along the cobbled footpath. At the village, you can try some of the traditional chestnut specialities (Chesnut cake and liqueur).

4. Pico do Aireiro   

This is one of the best spots to enjoy the views over the mountain peaks of Madeira. It’s the third highest peak on the island but is easily accessible by car. It is usually wrapped in clouds and can be windy and cold even in the summer months. There is a cafe close to the car park and from there you can reach the summit (marked by a concrete post) with a short walk.

5. Ponta de São Lourenço

This easternmost peninsula is a scenic place for a walk and offers great views of the rocky coastline.

6. North Coast of Madeira

Driving this impressive coastal road and admiring the views of the rocky coastline and the various tunnels is one of the best things to do in Madeira. There are so many great miradouros along the way that you can stop to enjoy the views.

7. Ribeiro Frio & Levada dos Balcões

This is a scenic place next to a valley and a river with a trout farm. It is also the start of a short walk – Levada dos Balcoes. This is a beautiful levada walk through the forest leading to a platform offering magnificent views of the valley and green hills.

8. Madeira Botanical Garden (Jardim Botanico)

Jardim Botanico (Price: €‎6) is a beautiful botanical garden located above Funchal and easily accessible by cable car from Monte (price: €9,25 one way). It’s a great place to experience the unique plants of Madeira, but it also provides great views of the whole of Funchal and the surrounding mountains. The best view of the city is from ‘Lover’s Cave’. There is a great selection of cacti, coastal plants, endemic trees, a parrot park and a Natural History Museum.

9. Pico Ruivo

This is Madeira’s highest peak and it can be reached by car and then by an easy hike via a well-paved path to the summit (1862m). It provides great views over Madeira’s peaks, volcanic landscape and forested hills.

10. Cabo Girao

Madeira’s highest sea cliff above the sea includes a glass-floored viewing platform offering great views of the surrounding cliffs, coastline and the city of Funchal.

11. Rabacal & Risco Waterfall

Rabacal marks the start of two popular signposted levada walks. The first is 30min walk to the impressive Risco Waterfall and the second is a 1.5h walk to the 25 Fontes (a pool with many waterfalls).

12. Dolphin & Whale Watching

There are various catamaran tours from Funchal marina that take you by the Madeira coastline in search of dolphins and whales . Tours usually last for 3 hours and sightings of dolphins are generally guaranteed . Pilot whales can often be spotted.

13. Sao Vicente Caves

These volcanic caves can be visited by a guided tour. They are located near Sao Vicente in the north of the island. There is also a short film that explains the volcanic origins of Madeira.

BEST TOWNS & VILLAGES OF MADEIRA

• Câmara De Lobos
• Ponta Do Sol
• Porto Moniz
• Ribeira Brava
• Sao Vicente
• Curral Das Freiras
• Paul Do Mar
• Jardim Do Mar

BEST BEACHES OF MADEIRA

Madeira is not known for its sandy beaches. Instead, it offers natural swimming pools, pebble beaches, and rocky shorelines.

For the best chance of sunshine, it’s better to stay on the south coast.

Here are some of the best places for beach and sea swimming in Madeira:

Below is a list of the  12 best beaches  on the island.

• Praia de Calheta
• Praia do Porto do Seixal
• Praia Formosa
• Praia de Machico
• Beach Santa Cruz
• Praia da Ponta do Sol
• Prainha do Caniçal
• Garajau Beach
• Praia do Almirante Reis
• Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools
• Praia Da Ribeira Brava
• Piscina do Porto da Cruz
• Praia de Vigário
• Praia da Fajã dos Padres

MADEIRA TOURIST MAP

You can click on the map below for the location of the best sights, restaurants & hotels, as well as the best villages and beaches to visit in Madeira.

MADEIRA PHOTOGRAPHY

You can check the best photographs and slideshows from the island of Madeira here .

Here is a list of the  best viewpoint  locations on the island where you can enjoy  great views .

• Miradouro do Cabo Girão
• Miradouro Eira do Serrado 
• Miradouro do Bom Jesus
• Miradouro da Beira da Quinta
• Miradouro dos Balcões            
• Farol da Ponta do Pargo          
• Cristo Rei    
• Miradouro Ponta Delgada       
• Viewpoint Pico do Areeiro       
• Ponta do Rosto            
• Fortress of Faial : This is an old fort that provides great views of the village of Faial and the surrounding coastline.
• Miradouro da Santinha            
• Miradouro do Paúl do Mar
• Miradouro da Portela
• Miradouro da Bica da Cana
• Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos
• Miradouro da Torre

You can check these  viewpoints locations  and the  best photo spots  on the island in the above map .

MADEIRA ACTIVITIES

• Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco (PR8) – 7km/2 to 3h return – beautiful coastal walk
• Vereda dos Balcoes (PR11) – 2.5km/1h return – the easiest levada walk with a beautiful viewpoint
• Levada das 25 Fontes & Risco Waterfall from Rabacal (PR6) – 11km/3 to 4h – famous levada walk
• Pico Ruivo  from  Pico do Arieiro  or Achada do Teixeira (PR1)
• Surfing : Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar are the most popular surfing places.
• Golf : Two scenic golf courses are located to the east of the island (Santo da Sera & Palheiro Ferreira)
• Bird Watching : Madeira has a variety of unique birds that can be enjoyed by bird watchers.
• Whale and dolphin watching .  Various companies offer daily boat tours starting at €30-40, bookable online or from touts at the marina.
• Deep sea fishing : Fishing trips can be booked at Funchal marina. Any caught fish has to be returned back to the sea.
• Paraglading
• Carnival: Colorful parades in fancy dress and carnival costumes in February or March before Shrove Tuesday
• Flower festival : Floats in competition
• New Year’s Fireworks : It’s the world’s largest firework display and a great spectacle in Funchal.
• Theme Park Madeira : Kid-oriented park with lakes and pavilions showcasing Madeira’s cultural traditions and heritage.
• Aquaparque : A water park with slides, rapids and pools close to the airport.

MADEIRA EXCURSIONS & TOURS

Ferry trip to porto santo.

If you have plenty of time in Madeira, you can take the ferry from Funchal to Porto Santo (2h & 15min journey) and explore this pretty island. There is the “ Lobo Marinho ” ferry that transports passengers and vehicles daily between the islands.

It can be done on a day trip, but it will be worth staying more than a day to enjoy this small island with the most beautiful sandy beach in the Archipelago.

Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour

Some of the best priced tours on offer are:

• Seaborn catamaran (€30 per adult).
• Magic Dolphin Catamaran (€25 per adult).

Madeira Island Tour

This is a good way of seeing the island if you don’t have your own transport. The best tour on offer is:

• Around The Island – Two Days Tour From 9am to 5pm :   This is a small group tour from Funchal over two full days to see top places around the island (€60 per adult).

More information about excursions & tours in Madeira can be found here .

MADEIRA SUGGESTED ITINERARY

It is worth staying on the island for at least 7 to 10 days if you want to explore it. The following itinerary includes things to do for 7 days on the island, but if you have more time to spend, you can change this itinerary to allow a more relaxed pace. I have taken Funchal as a base & overnight stay for the duration of the holiday; this itinerary might work slightly differently if you stay in other parts of the island.

• Whale & dolphin tour
• Funchal Town Centre & Marina
• Cable Car to Monte
• Jardim Botanico or Monte Plalace
• Curral das Freiras
• Pico do Aireiro
• Ribeirio Frio
• Levada dos Balcoes
• Camara de Lobos
• Encumeada Pass
• Paul da Serra
• Serra de Agua
• North Coast
• Porto da Cruz
• Ponta do Sol
• Madalena Do Mar
• Funchal Hotel Zone
• Ponta de Sao Lourenco

Porto Santo Day Trip

VIRTUAL TOUR

Check the following video slideshow to get further inspiration to visit Madeira 🙂

THINGS TO BUY

The best destination for souvenir shopping is Funchal with various souvenir shops as well as shops with handmade crafts. Some typical souvenirs to buy are: Madeira wine , Rebuçados de funcho (fennel sweets ) , madeira embroidery & bolo de mel (honey cake).

A unique souvenir to buy is handmade wicker baskets and the best place to purchase it and see the work in action is at the village of Camacha .

FURTHER READING

You can check the following posts :

• Madeira Beaches
• Town & Villages of Madeira

Other useful websites for more information about Madeira

• Visit Madeira : The official tourist website of Madeira
• ZigZagonearth : The most comprehensive guide about Madeira

Some good travel guides to buy before your visit to Madeira in paperback and kindle

• DK Eyewitness Top 10 Madeira (Pocket Travel Guide)
• Lonely Planet Pocket Madeira

TRAVEL RESOURCES

• Flights : I always use Skyscanner as my first choice as it’s so easy to use and you can search best deals by month. Momondo is another very good search engine as well as Google Flights .
• Accommodation : I always use Booking.com as my first choice, as it offers a great choice of accommodation at affordable prices and it’s so easy to use. TripAdvisor and Trivago are the best search engines to check deals from different websites; however not as good for checking the actual properties & rooms. Airbnb is a great alternative to find out homes and apartments to rent by real homeowners.
• Ferries : For Porto Santo check Lobo Marinho
• Car Rental : I always check Skyscanner for the cheapest car rental options.
• Public Transport : There are 4 different companies with their own website for checking public transport in Madeira: Horários do Funchal , SAM , EACL & Rodoeste
• Day Trips & Tours : Viator provides the most comprehensive list of day trips and you can book directly with them. TripAdvisor is also a great place to search for tours & activities to do.
• Travel Insurance : SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

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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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Madeira Is Great For

A wine-lover's escape.

• Hotel Jardim Atlantico
• PortoBay Serra Golf
• Hotel Funchal
• Quinta da Cova do Milho
• Casa Do Ribeirinho
• Restaurante Lilinha
• Maktub Paul do Mar
• Restaurante Tapassol
• L'arte Della Pizza( pizzeria Sorrento)
• 25 Fontes and Cascada da Risco
• Laurissilva Forest
• Faja dos Padres
• Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio
• Madeira Peaks - Mountain Walk
• Madeira Best of the West Day Tour
• Morning Transfer To Pico Do Arieiro, Hike To Pico Ruivo & Return From Teixeira
• Canyoning Madeira Island - Level One
• Madeira Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour

10 Things To Do In Madeira: Complete Guide To Vineyards, Islands, & More

M adeira, Portugal, an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. As an autonomous region of Portugal, Madeira has developed its own distinct identity while still retaining strong ties to its motherland. Funchal, the capital city, is a vibrant hub that showcases Madeira's history and charm through its cobblestone streets and colorful markets. The Mercado dos Lavradores, for instance, offers visitors a chance to sample local delicacies and admire the island's famous flowers.

Madeira's stunning landscapes are a major draw for nature enthusiasts. The island's volcanic origins have created dramatic cliffs and lush forests, such as the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Outdoor adventurers can explore the island's extensive network of levadas , which are irrigation channels that double as scenic walking trails. The warm waters surrounding Madeira also provide ample opportunities for water sports like scuba diving and whale watching.

Culturally, Madeira is known for its lively festivals and traditional crafts. The annual Madeira Flower Festival and the New Year's Eve fireworks display are just two examples of events that attract visitors from around the world. A diverse range of things to do beckons visitors to Madeira; here's what to see and where.

Things To Do In Madeira

Madeira’s main allure is its beaches, but visitors also have a chance to explore the archipelago’s history and culture, as well as spend time in nature. Below is a look at some of the top things to do in this region, proving why tourists should visit the Madeira Islands .

Visit The Monte Palace Tropical Garden

The Monte Palace Tropical Garden , situated atop a hill in Funchal, offers a serene escape for visitors. This enchanting garden boasts a diverse collection of plants from around the world, as well as beautiful koi ponds and exotic birds.

The garden's layout is inspired by 18th-century designs, providing a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls. Additionally, the on-site museum displays an impressive collection of minerals and sculptures.

• Address : Caminho do Monte 174, 9050-288 Funchal, Portugal
• Hours : Garden: 9:30 am - 6 pm (daily); Museum: 10 am - 4:30 pm (daily)
• Cost : Adults: $14; Children (below 15): Free

Explore The São Vicente Caves

Formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago, the Sao Vicente Caves are hidden gems in Madeira , inviting visitors to delve into the island's geological past.

These fascinating caves feature a network of lava tubes extending over a kilometer. Visitors can take guided tours that provide insight into the caves' formation and history while exploring the well-lit pathways.

Still, the adjacent Volcanism Center offers interactive exhibits and a simulation of a volcanic eruption.

• Address : Sitio do Pé do Passo, 9240-039 São Vicente, Portugal

Learn About The Island’s History At The Madeira Story Center

The Madeira Story Center offers tourists an engaging journey through the island's rich history. It has interactive exhibits and multimedia displays covering key events, from volcanic origins to modern-day Madeira.

Visitors can learn about the island's discovery, its role in global exploration, and its unique culture and traditions. The center also features a panoramic terrace with stunning views of Funchal's harbor.

• Address : Rua D. Carlos I 27-29, 9060-051 Funchal, Portugal
• Hours : 10 am - 7 pm (daily)
• Cost : Adults: $5.50; Children: $3

Related: This Is How Long You'll Need To See The Best Parts Of Beautiful Madeira

Sample Madeira’s Wines

Madeira's centuries-old winemaking tradition can be experienced firsthand at local wine cellars and tasting rooms. Visitors can savor the distinct flavors of Madeira wines, ranging from dry to sweet varieties.

Guided wine-tasting tours offer insights into the production process and the island's wine history while teaching tourists about the unique aging method that gives Madeira’s wines their signature taste.

Get Breathtaking Views At The Pico do Areeiro Observatory

At an altitude of 1,818 meters, the Pico do Areeiro Observatory provides awe-inspiring views of Madeira's dramatic landscape. Visitors can marvel at the panoramic vistas of rugged mountains, lush valleys, and distant ocean horizons.

The observatory is accessible by car or via challenging hiking trails for adventurous travelers.

• Address : Estrada Regional 202, Pico do Arieiro, Portugal
• Hours : 24 hours daily (weather permitting)
• Cost : Free

Warm clothing is recommended due to cooler temperatures at this elevation.

Take A Catamaran Cruise

Experience the beauty of Madeira's coastline by embarking on a catamaran cruise. These luxurious vessels offer a unique perspective of the island, allowing visitors to admire the stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

Many cruises also provide opportunities to spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, making it an unforgettable adventure. Various companies, like VMT Maderia, operate catamaran cruises, with options for half-day or full-day excursions, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.

VMT Madeira

• Address : Marina do Funchal, 9000-005 Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
• Cost : From $40

Learn About Whales At The Madeira Whale Museum

The Madeira Whale Museum , located in Caniçal, offers an informative and engaging experience for visitors interested in learning about the island's rich whaling history and marine life.

The museum features interactive exhibits, life-size models of whales, and a collection of artifacts that reveal the whaling industry's evolution.

Guided tours are available, providing in-depth knowledge about these magnificent creatures and their importance to Madeira's culture.

• Address : Rua da Pedra d'Eira, 9200-031 Caniçal, Madeira, Portugal
• Hours : Tue - Sun: 10 am - 6 pm (closed on Mon)
• Cost : Adults: $12; Youth (12-17 yrs): $9.30; Children (6 to 11): $6; Children (below 6): Free

Wander Around Funchal's Old Town

Funchal's Old Town is a charming area that’s a testament to Madeira's rich history thanks to its well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets. Visitors can stroll through the narrow lanes, admiring the colorful buildings adorned with intricate door paintings.

The area is also home to numerous shops, galleries, and restaurants offering traditional Madeiran cuisine. Notable landmarks include the Sé Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Assunção and the farmers’ market known locally as Mercado dos Lavradores , a lively spot selling local produce and crafts.

• Address : Rua de Santa Maria 1, 9060-291 Funchal, Portugal
• Hours : 24 hours (daily)

Related: Why Portugal Is Considered The Friendliest Country In The World

Hang Out At Madeira's Beaches

The island's picturesque beaches offer a relaxing escape for visitors seeking sun, sand, and sea, ranking among the top things to do in Madeira . This destination boasts a variety of beaches, ranging from golden sands to volcanic black pebbles.

Popular choices include Calheta Beach, with its calm waters and golden sands, and Praia Formosa, known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning views. Other beaches include Praia do Porto do Seixal, Porto Santo Beach, and Machico Bay Beach.

Beachgoers can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or taking part in water sports such as snorkeling and paddleboarding.

Go Hiking In Ponta de São Lourenço

Ponta de São Lourenço is a breathtaking nature reserve located at the eastern tip of Madeira. This rugged landscape offers a unique hiking experience, with well-marked trails that lead visitors through dramatic cliffs, volcanic rock formations, and vibrant flora.

The hike culminates at the Casa do Sardinha viewpoint, where panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and neighboring islands can be enjoyed. The trails are suitable for all fitness levels, and they provide an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts.

• Address : Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço, 9200-031 Caniçal, Madeira, Portugal

Where To Eat In Madeira

Visitors ought to try some of Madeira’s famous foods , including dishes like espetada, battered black scabbard fish, and picadinho, among others. Below is a look at some of the places to eat in the archipelago.

Breakfast/Lunch

Art Food Corner Madeira

• Address : R. Dom Carlos I 20, 9060-051 Funchal, Portugal
• Hours : Mon - Fri: 9 am - 5 pm; Sat: 9 am - 4 pm (closed on Sun)
• Meals : Mexican-style wraps, avocado toast, chia pudding, hummus toast

LOFT Brunch & Cocktail Restaurant

• Address : edf séc.xxi, Estrada Monumental loja D, 9000-100 Funchal, Portugal
• Hours : Tue - Sun: 9 am - 7 pm (closed on Mon)
• Meals : Mexican veggie burger, pancakes, tacos

Lunch/Dinner

Lily's Restaurant

• Address : Caramanchao, Estrada D. Manuel Machico, Portugal
• Hours : Sun: 12 pm - 3 pm; Tue - Sat: 12 pm - 3 pm & 6:30 pm - 10 pm
• Meals : Strogonoff chicken, grilled pork tenderloin, pastas, battered scabbard fish

Restaurant A Traineira

• Address : Rua Dom Franscisco Santana, Edificio Varandas Mar loja 1 e 2, 9125-031 Caniço, Portugal
• Hours : 12 pm - 11 pm (daily)
• Meals : Shellfish, grilled scabbard, fried mackerel, grilled codfish, tiger prawns, beefsteak Traineira style

Related: Pastries To Grilled Sardines: Discover 10 Must-Try Street Foods In Portugal

Dinner/Drinks

Dash, Cocktail Bar

• Address : R. da Alfândega 1B, 9000-059 Funchal, Portugal
• Hours : Tue - Sat: 8 pm - 2 am (closed on Sun & Mon)
• Drinks : Cocktails - SMoked Negroni, Watermelon Gummy, Irish Punch, Gin Fizz, Daiquiri

Venda Velha

• Address : Rua de Santa Maria 170, 9060-291 Funchal, Portugal
• Hours : Sun - Thu: 4 pm - 1 am; Fri & Sat: 4 pm - 2 am
• Meals : Steak on the Stone, paella, octopus
• Drinks: Nikita (alcoholic & non-alcoholic), Sangria, Martini, Mojito, Tequila

Where To Stay In Madeira

From restaurants to hotels, Madeira has a lot to offer . Here are some of the best places to stay.

Savoy Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World - Savoy Signature

• Address : Avenida do Infante, 25, 9004-542 Funchal, Madeira
• Price : From $177
• Amenities : Airport shuttle, private parking, fitness center, beach access, garden, private pool, spa, hot tub, babysitting service, restaurant

Next - Savoy Signature

• Address : Rua Carvalho Araújo Nº 8, 9000-022 Funchal, Madeira
• Price : From $89
• Amenities : Spa, gym, sauna, rooftop pool, bike rental, game room, cribs, kids’ play area, private parking

Bio Hotel - Hotel Quinta Da Serra

• Address : Estrada Do Chote 4/6, 9325-140 Câmara de Lobos, Madeira
• Price : From $49
• Amenities : Laundry facilities, free parking, shuttle service, fitness center, picnic area, babysitting service, spa, hot tub, pool

Vacation Rentals

Ocean View Studio

• Address : Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
• Price : From $153
• Amenities : Queen bed, sofa bed, sea views, smart TV, kitchenette, shared pool, private parking, beach access

Charming Tent

• Address : Achadas da Cruz, Madeira, Portugal
• Price : From $101
• Amenities : Mountain & sea views, kitchenette, private bedroom area, 1.5 baths, deck area, private garden, beach access

Mountain Shelter

• Address : Santa Cruz, Madeira, Portugal
• Price : From $83
• Amenities : 1 bed, 1 bath, shared beach access, free parking, crib, shared backyard, BBQ grill

When To Visit Madeira

Madeira enjoys a subtropical climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. The ideal months to visit are April to June and September to November, as the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists.

Here's a detailed look at what to expect in Madeira during the different seasons.

April to June

These months mark spring season in Madeira, offering delightful weather with temperatures averaging highs of 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) and lows of 57 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius).

The island comes alive with vibrant flowers and lush greenery, making it a perfect time to explore the beautiful gardens and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can expect a moderate number of tourists during this period, with prices for accommodations and activities being relatively reasonable.

• It is advisable to book flights and hotels in advance to secure the best deals.

Related: Springtime Special: 10 Amazing Places To Visit In Portugal This Spring

July to August

Summer in Madeira brings warmer temperatures, with highs reaching 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) and lows of 64 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius). While the weather is enjoyable, these months attract many tourists, resulting in crowded attractions and higher prices for accommodations.

Those who want a more relaxed atmosphere may want to consider visiting during other months. However, for travelers who enjoy lively events and festivals, this is the time when Madeira hosts several cultural celebrations.

September to November

Autumn in Madeira offers a pleasant climate with temperatures ranging between highs of 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius) and lows of 61 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius). The crowds start to thin out during this period, making it an excellent time to explore the island's attractions at a leisurely pace.

Prices for accommodations and activities become more affordable, allowing visitors to enjoy their stay without breaking the bank. Additionally, the grape harvest season takes place during these months, providing an opportunity to witness traditional wine-making processes and taste exquisite local wines.

December to March

Winter in Madeira is characterized by cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. Highs average around 63 degrees Fahrenheit (17 degrees Celsius) while lows hover around 54 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius).

Although outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather conditions, visitors can still enjoy the island's indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and wine cellars. The tourist crowds are significantly lower during this period, and prices for accommodations are quite attractive for budget-conscious travelers.

Getting Around Madeira

Visitors to Madeira will land at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, which is conveniently located just 13 miles from the capital city of Funchal. This airport welcomes flights from various European cities such as London, Lisbon, Paris, and Frankfurt.

For those traveling from outside Europe, a layover in one of these cities may be necessary before continuing on to Madeira.

Once in Madeira, tourists have several options for getting around the island:

Madeira's public bus system, operated by Horários do Funchal and SAM , offers an extensive network of routes that cover a majority of the island. These buses connect Funchal with other towns and villages, making it easy for visitors to explore the island at their leisure.

• Bus fares start at around $2 for a single journey within Funchal, while longer trips to other parts of the island may cost up to roughly $6.
• For those planning to use the bus frequently, a monthly pass is available for around $32.

One of the most scenic ways to travel around Madeira is by taking a cable car ride. The Madeira Cable Car transports passengers from the city center up to the hilltop village of Monte, offering breathtaking views of the city and coastline along the way.

• The cable car operates daily from 9 am to 5:45 pm, with fares starting at approximately $14 for a one-way ticket and $20 for a round-trip ticket.

Taxis are readily available throughout Madeira, providing a convenient and comfortable way to get around the island. Fares are metered and can vary depending on the distance traveled and time of day.

It is worth noting that some taxi drivers also offer guided tours of the island, which can be an excellent way for visitors to learn more about Madeira's history and attractions.

For those who prefer to explore Madeira at their own pace, renting a car is an ideal option. Numerous car rental agencies are available at the airport and in Funchal, offering a range of vehicles to suit different budgets and preferences.

Visitors should keep in mind that driving in Madeira can be challenging due to its steep hills and narrow roads; however, this also adds to the island's charm and allure.

Madeira is famous for its network of levadas or irrigation channels that traverse the island's lush landscapes. These levadas often have walking paths alongside them, allowing visitors to enjoy leisurely strolls while taking in the stunning scenery.

• Guided levada walks are available through various tour operators, providing an opportunity for tourists to learn more about Madeira's unique flora and fauna.

Spending The Perfect Day In Madeira

Begin the perfect day in Madeira with a delicious breakfast at a local café, then explore the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores for fresh produce and souvenirs. Next, visit the stunning Monte Palace Tropical Garden, admiring its exotic flora and breathtaking views.

For lunch, savor traditional Madeiran cuisine at a local restaurant before embarking on a tour of Old Town Funchal to get a glimpse of the city’s historical sites.

​​​​​​​In the afternoon, unwind at the picturesque Praia Formosa beach, and later, indulge in a sumptuous dinner at a waterfront eatery. Conclude the day with drinks at a lively bar.

Q: What is Madeira best known for?

Madeira is best known for its stunning natural landscapes, mild climate, and unique flora and fauna. Some of the highlights include the lush Laurisilva Forest, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the dramatic cliffs and coastal views, and the levadas (irrigation channels) that crisscross the island.

Madeira is also famous for its wine, Madeira wine, which is a fortified wine produced on the island.

Q: Is it worth it to go to Madeira?

Yes, it is worth it to go to Madeira , especially for those who enjoy nature, outdoor activities, and unique cultural experiences.

The island offers stunning landscapes, beautiful gardens, and a variety of activities such as hiking, whale watching, and exploring the levadas.

Q: Is Madeira closer to Africa or Europe?

Madeira is closer to Africa than Europe. It is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 520 km (320 miles) from the northwest coast of Africa ( home to its own gorgeous destinations ) and approximately 978 km (608 miles) southwest of mainland Portugal.

Madeira Island: Travel Guide

This is a complete travel guide to Madeira Island, Portugal. I’m sharing tips of the best places to go, how to go around the island, where to stay and what to eat.

I spent one week in Madeira in January 2021 and wanted to share a bit of knowledge to guide you through a visit to this amazing island. It’s known as the Pearl of the Alantic for a reason!

When to go to Madeira?

If you ask me, the ideal time of the year to come to Madeira would be between April and June. Why?

• If you’re looking to do whale and dolphin watching, just like in Azores , it’s the best time of the year.
• April and May also feature a spectacle with all the flowers in full bloom.
• It’s also perfect for hiking: past the rainy season but still not on the unbearably hot summer months.

Weather in Madeira

Madeira is an all-year destination. The very mild climate allows for very stable temperatures throughout the entire year. To give you an idea, in early January I got 20 C / 68F temperatures which were perfect for a swim in the sea! However, if you’re looking for the best chance of sunbathing, then anywhere from April to September is your best bet, with the months of June and July being particularly dry.

Keep in mind that the weather can change quickly and unexpectedly all year, specially in the mountain areas in the center of the island.

Crowds in Madeira

Like any destination, avoid summer holidays (August) if you want to avoid crowds. Apart from this, Madeira has several popular events scattered throughout the year, which are also busy periods:

• Carnival – a highly festive period traditionally filled with street parades and parties.
• Flower Festival (Festa da Flor) – taking place in April/May when the flowers are at their best, it features a parade of hundreds of performers and beautifully decorated floats.
• Christmas – The mild temperatures lure many tourists to choose Madeira as a Christmas family destination.
• New Year’s Eve – Madeira is well known for the amazing light & music fireworks in Funchal bay – it was once considered the best firework show in the world!

That said, with the exception of the capital Funchal , Madeira hardly feels crowded. Venture out to the more rural areas and you’ll find plenty of space to relax. The northern coast is particularly less crowded compared to the southern coast.

How many days in Madeira?

I recommend staying for at least 5-6 full days. While the island seems tiny on the map, there is plenty of things to do. You also need to account for the driving time to get around the island and for the changing weather which can prevent you from visiting some places.

If you want a less rushed trip and extra time to do more hikes, aim for 8-9 days instead and throw in a few lazy days to lay around the pool or go to the beach.

What to pack for Madeira

Keep in mind that Madeira has a very diverse range of landscapes with ever-changing weather. It might be bright and sunny in the beaches in the southern coast, but you’ll quickly start to regret not bringing a warmer jacket on the way up to Pico do Arieiro , 1,8km above the sea level.

My point is when packing for Madeira, be prepared for that diversity. Have a range on your clothing and equipment:

• Water bottle – keep yourself hydrated
• Sunscreen – it gets HOT
• Hiking shoes – needed for the rural areas of the island
• Rain jacket – you’ll never know
• Headlamp – some of the hiking trails feature long tunnels!
• Day backpack – to bring all this gear
• Warmer jacket – don’t play around if you’re coming during winter time; it snowed in the highest areas of the island this year.

Where to stay in Madeira

I recommend staying in Funchal. Not only it has the largest offer of places to stay in Madeira, it’s also where you’ll find the largest offer of restaurants, bars, and shops. Being close to the geographical center of the island, where most roads lead to and depart from is also an advantage for any trip.

That said, Funchal is also the most crowded, expensive, and touristy place in the island. If you are looking for a more relaxing and “closer to nature” kind of trip, perhaps consider staying elsewhere for a few days.

Hotels in Funchal

When looking for a place to stay in Funchal, I recommend looking for a hotel or apartment with free parking to avoid headaches at the end of the day. Being in walking distance to Avenida do Mar, the main seaside promenade (and the city center!), and not having to worry about parking, was also a great addition to my evenings.

Best hotels in Funchal

A shortlist of the best-rated hotels and apartments in Funchal with free parking and Superb rating.

My choice: ARTS IN Hotel

A restored Madeiran mansion with great breakfast and beautiful views over Funchal bay.

How to get around Madeira

Driving in madeira.

I have driven in many places but Madeira definitely wins the Craziest Roads Award. Long tunnels, narrow lanes, sharp curves, viaducts, steep roads and sometimes all of them at the same time. It felt like an intense Mario Kart course!

That said, you should be fine as long as you drive slowly and carefully. Maybe it’s part of the Madeira charm! Here are some tips for renting a car in Madeira:

• Get full insurance (Super CDW) – potentially saves you a lot of nerves.
• Rent a place with a parking spot/garage included – it’s almost impossible to find a spot in the narrow steep roads of Funchal.
• Get a compact but powerful car – there isn’t a lot of space in Madeira but at the same time, any extra horsepower is welcomed when going up 30-degree roads.

To give you an idea, I paid 220 Euros for a fully insured car during a full week.

Taxis in Madeira

If you haven’t that much experience driving, I recommend getting around using tours or taxi drivers. Hiring a taxi driver for the day is the best way to stay independent while exploring Madeira, but is also the most expensive option: around 100 Euros/day.

Buses in Madeira

Public transport is inexpensive and works pretty well in the capital Funchal, but quite frankly, to explore the rest of the island it’s very inefficient. Planning a day out by bus is like solving a complex puzzle of bus schedules and routes that will still never get you to the most remote and awesome places.

Bus is still the cheapest option to get around. There are 3 types of buses in Madeira:

• Horários do Funchal – orange buses operating in Funchal.
• SAM – red buses operating in Eastern Madeira (Machico, Caniço, Santa Cruz, etc).
• Rodoeste – green buses operating in Western Madeira (Câmara de Lobos, Ponta do Sol, Porto Moniz, Calheta, etc).

Places to go in Madeira

Madeira island map.

To help you get around the island and plan your trip, I’ve created this Madeira map with everything I’ve mentioned in this article: my favorite viewpoints, main points of interest, hiking trails, and restaurants.

In the meantime, here is an overview of my top 10 places to visit in Madeira.

1 Pico do Arieiro

Standing at 1,8km high in the heart of Madeira, Pico do Arieiro is one of those landscapes that crush you and make you feel tiny. My favorites! Once you’re up there, watching the clouds revealing and hiding mountains, lush forests, and huge ravines is mesmerizing.

For extra adventure, you can start here the Vereda do Arieiro PR 1 hiking trail that goes to the highest peak in Madeira: Pico Ruivo.

You can go there by car, but keep in mind the road is curvy, steep and frequently has fog and strong winds. Tip: get there by sunset or even sunrise for extra beauty.

2 Porto Moniz

Almost. I almost got a glimpse of sun that would have motivated me to go for a swim at Porto Moniz lava pools. It’s the highlight of this little seaside village although there a few paths that lead to whale watching viewpoints ( vigia da baleia ).

The natural swimming pools are open year-round but obviously summer months is when they get real popular. Entrance fee: 1,50 EUR. To try and avoid crowds, there are other free smaller pools nearby, right next to the Cachalote restaurant.

Tip: On the road to Porto Moniz, arriving Seixal, stop by Véu da Noiva viewpoint ( Miradouro do Véu da Noiva ) for beautiful views of the Northern Coast of Madeira and for this incredible sight of a waterfall plunging into the ocean.

3 Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Many say that Madeira is a garden, so this technically is a garden inside another garden. Jardim Tropical Monte Palace is located in Monte, high up in Funchal , and boasts an incredible collection of exotic flowers and trees from all over the world.

The garden also has a collection of typical portuguese tiles describring social and cultural events of the country throughout the centuries. Entrance fee is 12,50 Euros (2021 prices) and the easiest way to get there is to hop on the Funchal-Monte cable car (prices and operation hours here ).

4 Ponta de São Lourenço

Ponta de São Lourenço was probably my favorite place during my week in Madeira. It’s the most eastern point in the island and has an entirely different landscape. No crowds, no trees, just stunning ocean views.

This is a great hiking spot, with almost 10km of trails to discover. I encourage you to park your car and adventure yourself a little bit to explore viewpoints with stunning ocean views. Get there early – the parking is limited!

5 Fajã da Quebrada Nova

Scary? Yes. Crazy? Yes. Immensely beautiful? Also yes. Fajã da Quebrada Nova is possibly one of the most unique places you can find in Madeira.

You can get to this little fajã by driving to Achadas da Cruz and then get down there by three ways: by boat, a steep 1h30 hike down or an unusual cable car ride. Keep in mind the cable car works from 10am to 6am, weather permitting.

6 Ponta do Garajau

Above the natural reserve of Garajau, this headland is famous for the Christ statue (Cristo Rei). Originally built in 1927 to welcome whoever arrived to Madeira by sea, it’s a great photo opportunity, with amazing views over Desertas (uninhabited islands) and the beaches of Reis Magos and Galo.

7 Balcões Viewpoint (Miradouro dos Balcões)

This viewpoint is the finale of a small 1.5km levada trail (PR11 – Levada dos Balcões) starting at Ribeiro Frio . You’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring 300-degree panorama over the laurissilva forest of the heart of the island as well as the largest peaks of the island – Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo .

Miradouro dos Balcões is also a mecca for birdwatching enthusiasts. Pro tip: bring a bit of bread and you’ll have several curious little winged creatures flying around you.

8 Cabo Girão

Standing atop a 580-meter high cliff, Cabo Girão has some of the most incredible views over Funchal and the wild Atlantic Ocean. This viewpoint is the highest cape in Europe and is essentially a suspended glass-floored skywalk so it can be a… breathtaking experience (in every sense of the word!).

I visited it during pandemic times and it was still busy, so I recommend to come early in the morning to avoid crowds.

9 Curral das Freiras

Nested in a mountain valley almost a kilometer deep, the small village of Curral das Freiras is certainly a dramatic sight. It’s literally translated as “corral of the nuns” because nuns from Santa Clara Convent in Funchal seeked refuge here to escape attacks from French pirates.

To take in the scenery in full, head to one of the viewpoints in the surrounding mountains. Miradouro do Paredão and particularly Eira do Serrado have amazing views over this special place. The little town is worth a visit to, just to have a glimpse of what is living at such a remote place. Make sure to try the local chestnut cornbread ( broas de castanha ).

Last but certainly not least: the capital of Madeira. Funchal was a surprise for me. Not only it’s much bigger than I anticipated, but the city was literally built on a natural amphiteather so everywhere you go you’ll set to enjoy stunning ocean views.

Because it’s so catered to tourists (expect crowds all-year round!), the streets are extremely neat, clean, and filled with restaurants and shops. It’s a joy to walk in. These are some of the sights to see in Funchal:

• Avenida do Mar – the main seaside promenade
• Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico) – boasting flowers from all over the world
• Funchal Cable Car (Teleférico) – a 15-min ride all the way up to Monte where you can visit Monte Palace Madeira
• Funchal Cathedral – gothic 15th-century cathedral
• Lido – bathing complex with saltwater pools

Tourist traps in Madeira

Not everything was perfect though! I had the chance to visit Madeira in pandemic times, which clearly benefited my experience. But it’s clear the island can suffer a bit of the overtourism virus, specially around the Funchal area (where you pay just to go for a swim in the ocean!) and in some crowded hiking trails (which takes away the whole experience, if you ask me).

• Mercado dos Lavradores – even though the largest market in Funchal is worth a visit, beware of the sellers giving you exotic Madeiran fruits to taste. They’re usually flavor enhanced with a bit of syrup and you can easily pay dozens of euros for a few pieces of fruit!
• Santana Traditional Houses – I was expecting to see an entire village filled with the triangular-shaped iconic houses you see in postcards and are marketed as typically Madeiran. The reality is that there’s only a 3/4 of them in Santana, selling souvenirs and traditional food to tourists. A disappointment.

Things to do in Madeira

Hiking in madeira.

Madeira is a paradise for hiking lovers. The typical levadas – trails that follow old water canals through the forest – range in size, difficulty level, and landscape giving a bit of everything for everyone.

• Levada das 25 Fontes PR6 – the most popular levada of them all leads to a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush forest. Avoid arriving late morning or early afternoon due to crowds!
• Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço PR8 – the beautiful remote eastern tip of Madeira boasts amazing views over the ocean and the other islands of the Madeira archipelago.
• Levada dos Balcões PR11 – easy and entirely flat 30-min path to one of the most iconic views over the Madeira forest.
• Vereda do Arieiro PR1 – connects Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo in something that can be described as walking on clouds. This trail was closed when I was there due to a landslide (January 2021).
• Levada do Caldeirao Verde PR9 – another hidden waterfall, but you need to go through a few long tunnels to get there. Bring a flashlight or headlamp!

Swimming spots in Madeira

Although Madeira is not exactly known for being a beach destination, there are some spots around the island where you can go for a swim in the ocean.

Man-made swimming pools or even small harbors are great spots to dive into the Atlantic and they’re all across the island ( check my map !). Here are some of my favorites:

• Porto Moniz – natural lava pools in the northwestern tip of the island, quite popular in summer.
• Calheta – a couple of artificial beaches between breakwaters.
• Prainha – small beach in Caniçal hidden among the hills, popular amongst SUP and scuba diving enthusiasts
• Garajau – acessible by cable car or to a steep descent by car.
• Machico (Banda D’Além) – artificial yellow sand beach (one of the largest in the island), imported from Morocco in 2008.
• Porto do Seixal – volcanic beach surrounded by green cliffs and mountains.
• Porto Santo – if you have some extra time, head to the neighbor island of Porto Santo for one of the best beaches of the country!

Other things to do in Madeira

These are other tours and outdoor activities you can find in Madeira:

• Canyoning – the geological conditions of Madeira are fantastic to try out this sport.
• Coasteering – jumping, swimming, and snorkeling amongst the rocky coastline
• Cooking Class – food in Madeira is delicious, so this is something I highly recommend. Check Portugal Farm Experience for farm-to-table cooking classes!
• SUP – experience Madeira from a different perspective: from the sea!

Food in Madeira

What to eat and drink in Madeira

You’ll eat extremely well in Madeira. The level of restaurants in Madeira is pretty high and there’s a bit of everything: from hole-in-the-wall hidden gems to Michelin-worthy restaurants. Honestly, it’s great value for money overall.

These are some of the delicacies to try in Madeira:

• Bolo de mel – made with dark sugar cane and nuts, it can last for a whole year after baked.
• Bolo do caco – delicious flatbread, served with garlic butter. Served virtually everywhere as a starter.
• Espetada – meat skewer with beef, bay leaf and garlic, grilled on charcoal.
• Peixe-espada – black scabbardfish served battered and then fried along with a banana or/and with passionfruit sauce.
• Lapas – limpets are my favorite seafood, also typical from my homeland Azores and I couldn’t be happier to find them in Madeira too!
• Poncha – the most traditional Madeiran drink, made with aguardente , honey, sugar, and different fruit juices. You’ll hardly believe this has alcohol!

Restaurants in Madeira

Last but not least – some of my favorites restaurants and bars in Madeira.

• Cachalote – not exactly the best value, but it’s compensated by good quality food is and the beautiful views over the Porto Moniz coastline.
• Doca do Cavacas – even if the food was average, the ocean view would make any visit worthwhile. But the food is absolutely delicious. Specialized in seafood – order lapas !
• Santo António – meat-focused restaurant in Câmara de Lobos. This is a great place to try the traditional espetada .
• Taberna da Poncha – located in Serra D’Água, this is the place to try the typical poncha.
• Taberna Madeira – all the Madeiran specialties can be found in this restaurant in Funchal, from milho frito to lapas and bolo do caco .

What else did you do in Madeira island? Let me know what I’ve missed in this travel guide!

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Madeira: Safe to Discover

Madeira is a pioneering destination in the fight against Covid-19 . Ranked among the Safest Destinations in Europe on the basis of precise criteria such as the low number of Covid-19 cases (up to 80 times less than in the rest of Europe) but also effective health measures (tests, masks, social distancing, availability of sanitary gel).  Madeira has been able to combine safety and leisure to offer holidays with peace of mind for travellers seeking escape, discovery and relaxation.

Thanks to  madeirasafetodiscover.com , travellers can easily and without any stress prepare their trip to Madeira. While masks are mandatory in markets, covered places and busy streets, it is not mandatory in your leisure activities, at the beach or during nature walks.  You can safely enjoy relaxed holidays in Madeira.

A few pictures are better than a long speech, discover on video how Madeira will welcome you for a holiday that combines safety and leisure.

Visit Madeira Islands

Imagine a world apart.

Madeira  is not only an island but eight exceptional  islands  rich in discoveries and precious memories. Some are wild and uninhabited, others are lined with beautiful golden beaches, all of them offering an incredible wildlife and flora.

Discover, in the softness of a  subtropical climate  throughout the year, landscapes of unusual diversity in one of the  finest destinations in Europe . Welcome to an unforgettable destination, welcome to Madeira!

Full of trees and flowers, where summers are mild, and winters are soft, Madeira is a sunny place full of history and beauty. About 600 miles South West of Lisbon, millions of years ago a volcano erupted and from there emerged an island. That was Henry the Navigator’s first discovery, and because of its large variety of trees, he named it “Madeira” (Wood).

Our travel guide to Madeira Islands will show you the best things to do , experiences not to be missed , secret and surprising places . Discover our selection of hotels and restaurants and book your guided tours online.

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The archipelago of Madeira is a perfect place for lovers of unique landscapes, unspoiled nature, adventure and gastronomy.

Whether you are travelling alone, as a couple with family or friends, our team has selected for you the best activities and things to see in Madeira . Discover the most beautiful views of the sea and the forest, the gardens not to be missed and the best guided tours around the island.

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The Madeira Islands Are Portugal's Best-kept Secret

Out on Portugal's Madeira Islands, the lush archipelago far from the mainland, the North Atlantic ocean has shaped every aspect of life for centuries.

Nina Caplan has been writing about the arts, wine, and travel for over 20 years. Her wine and lifestyle columns appear regularly in Club Oenologique , The New Statesman , and The London Times 's luxury magazine, Luxx. She is the author of an award-winning travel memoir steeped in wine and history, "The Wandering Vine: Wine, The Romans and Me," which was published by Bloomsbury in 2018. She has followed her interests all over the world, from climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and searching for Edo (19th-century Tokyo) to eating her way around Montreal and exploring the vineyards of Champagne. She is also a travel and wine consultant and an occasional podcaster. A lifelong Francophile and fluent French speaker, she lives between Burgundy, France, and London and has overflowing wine cellars in both places. She is working on a book about France. * Guild of Food Writers Drink Writer of the Year 2020 * Fortnum & Mason Drink Writer of the Year 2018 and 2014 * Louis Roederer International Food & Wine Writer of the Year 2016 * "The Wandering Vine" was Fortnum & Mason's Debut Drink Book of the Year 2019 and Louis Roederer Wine Book of the Year 2018 * Author of "The Gourmet London Restaurant Guide" * Former editor of Metropolitan, the trilingual magazine on Eurostar * Former features editor of Time Out London

In 1419, when Portuguese seafarers happened on an uninhabited island in the North Atlantic, around 500 miles off the African coast, they were awed by the dense covering of greenery. Even today, after 600 years of human encroachment, their amazement is easy to understand. The variety of flora is astounding: groves of local mahogany, bushy strands of indigenous lily of the valley, and a laurel forest, the largest surviving relic of the vegetation that covered much of southern Europe at least 15 million years ago. Those first men who arrived on the island called it Madeira — the Portuguese word for wood.

But those 15th-century sailors were perhaps indifferent to what struck me most forcibly when I first visited: the insistent presence of the ocean. Madeira — the largest island in an archipelago of the same name — is so steep that even inland, when I walked through a vineyard or dined on a hillside, bright water framed the view.

In the capital city, Funchal, on the southern coast, hotels and restaurants take full advantage of a vista that never gets boring. But at ground level, strolling along sidewalks decorated with traditional cream-and-black mosaics, I was still distracted by gaps between buildings that offered shifting glints of blue. The Atlantic affects the climate, the wildlife, and the food. Those sailors, I thought, should have called their discovery mar — the sea.

My interest in this place pre-dates my realization that it was a place. My father used to sing a sly English music-hall ditty, "Have Some Madeira, M'Dear," so when I grew older, it was the wine I wanted to try. Still, it turns out that there is no better location than Madeira in which to drink Madeira. The wine and the place are as intertwined as their common name suggests.

The Atlantic affects the climate, the wildlife, and the food. Those sailors, I thought, should have called their discovery mar — the sea.

Every boat trip, swim, and breathtaking mountaintop walk, as I inhaled salt and admired the azure tint of the waves, reminded me that the Atlantic has shaped this wine's existence. And the wine, the principal export of Madeira for more than 400 years, has profoundly changed its homeland's destiny. As our hiking guide, Otilia "Tilly" Câmara, put it, "Madeira was born from the sea."

We were high in the hills at the time: Câmara was leading us on a glorious hike along one of the levadas , the man-made irrigation channels that direct water from the forested mountains in the north and west to the dry southern slopes. It was so peaceful, walking alongside this small, orderly stream, framed by walnut, apple, and pear trees. We passed an older woman in a headscarf, who carried a pail of leaves to use as mulch, and felt terribly remote until we realized the closest village was just a two minutes' walk away.

For centuries, right up until the advent of air travel, almost everyone stopped in Madeira. Columbus briefly lived on the island. Captain Cook paused for supplies, sailed on to Rio de Janeiro and Tierra del Fuego, and wound up planting a British flag in eastern Australia. On the way to America and the West Indies, traders and explorers bought barrels of Madeira wine and discovered that it doesn't just survive an ocean voyage: it improves. The acidity endures, the nutty, caramel flavors deepen. In an era when wine that traveled usually arrived as vinegar, this was incredible. And Madeirans grew rich on their wine's resilience.

At Blandy's Wine Lodge, part of a 16th-century Franciscan monastery that takes up an entire block near the Funchal waterfront, my husband, Craig, and I walked through beamed rooms, their wood dark with age, where the wine matures in barrels so old that Blandy's employs four in-house coopers to handle the ongoing repairs. Past a small museum and a stately row of giant wooden vats, we arrived at a tasting room.

"We have nearly four million liters of Madeira wine aging here," explained Chris Blandy, CEO of his family's business. He casually opened a 2002 Sercial, made from one of the five Madeira grape varieties. It wasn't sweet, although there were toffee and stewed-apple flavors, as well as a lemony acidity. It also wasn't old. Unlike other wines, Madeira lasts almost indefinitely. There are surviving Madeiras — rich, bittersweet, utterly drinkable — that were made around the time John Blandy arrived from England to found the winery that still bears his name. And that was in 1811.

Perhaps I was sentimental, but the whole of Madeira seemed to have a versatility, a willingness to consider different ways of doing things, that might be a legacy of the inhabitants' historic reliance on visitors. There were the venerable and modern styles of wine; hotels like Quinta da Casa Branca built in repurposed quintas , or manor houses, and ultra-contemporary resorts like Les Suites at the Cliff Bay.

At Casa de Pasto das Eiras, an unprepossessing shed in the hills east of Funchal, I tried espetadas , skewers of tender beef grilled on an open fire, then hung on metal hooks at each plate. This was quite the contrast with the modern dishes at Kampo, a seriously hip Funchal restaurant with an open kitchen and a poured-concrete bar. We ate sophisticated versions of Portuguese specialties such as a savory bola de Berlim doughnut, which is usually sweet but is here filled with chorizo and mushroom and topped with powdered sugar.

From the city, we glided by cable car into the hills, above terraces of the tiny, sweet local bananas, above flights of precipitous stairs leading to whitewashed, orange-roofed houses, whose residents must have excellent thigh muscles from all that climbing. At Pátio das Babosas, an airy hilltop restaurant, we stopped for lunch — grilled local tuna with milho frito , cubes of cornmeal fried with herbs; lapas , chewy, tasty limpets served in their frill-edged shells with butter, garlic, and a cascade of lemon — and gazed out over the slopes. It was distinctly cooler up there: clouds cluster around these mountains, then condense into rain that is channeled elsewhere via the levadas .

It was in these hills that the rich built their summer homes. One such residence is Monte Palace Madeira, an imposing estate constructed for an 18th-century consul and now home to over 750,000 square feet of botanical gardens filled with native and imported plants. Gorgeously decorated Portuguese tiles, some 500 years old, seem to be pasted, rather disconcertingly, to the foliage.

We skittered down paths lined with tangled greenery and giant ferns; what looked like fat, half-buried palm trees were actually cycads, the world's most ancient seed-plant family, which first appears in the fossil record around 280 million years ago. In front of that grand building, a stepped cascade drew the eye down to a fish-filled lake and on to the distant ocean.

A cable car seemed like a luxury when it came time to descend to the sunny lowlands by way of an only-in-Madeira sledge car. Two men wearing straw boaters and thick-soled shoes ushered Craig and me into an upholstered wicker basket. Why the thick soles? I wondered, as each attendant grabbed a rope attached to our conveyance and ran ahead down a sharply sloping road that had been worn glass-smooth from previous journeys. As we picked up speed, the two jumped on the back like old-fashioned footmen, and I got my answer: those shoes were our only brakes.

There was no dedicated path: cars had to stop for us, but there were few. The basket — originally used to transport goods downhill — swiveled this way and that, breath-catchingly close to the roadside ditch. It was as exhilarating as a fairground ride, and a lot more immediate. I don't mind admitting that I hollered.

Recovery was swift. We padded through the beautiful grounds of our hotel, Quinta da Casa Branca. The gardens were amazing: Australian macadamia trees, cinnamon trees from Sri Lanka with their perfumed bark, the purple blossoms of the wonderfully named silver-leafed princess flower. On the broad stone terrace, as the setting sun briefly grazed the mountaintops, we sat down to herb-crusted lamb with local couscous.

We sipped not the famous, fortified Madeiran wine but a deep-pink rosé, made from Tinta Negra Mole and Aragonez grapes, which, as we would see firsthand the following day at winery Quinta do Barbusano, grow on abrupt hills overlooked by a lonely belfry — a church with no church — and cooled by the ever-present sea.

The island was startlingly lovely: so green and sheer it resembled a vertical garden, trees alternating with terraces of bananas or vines. As we drove around the island, the sun would shut off every so often as the car ducked into a tunnel.

"We are like a Swiss cheese, full of holes!" our driver said cheerily.

The sky varied from cerulean to deep gray, depending on where we were, but the steep inclines and bright-purple African lilies that lined the roads like cheering crowds ensured that, even when it was cloudy, the scenery was never dull. One morning, atop Pico do Arieiro, the island's third-highest peak, we watched the sun break through a glowing white haze just below us. The early start and short, cold walk in the dark, draped in blankets and clutching a thermos of coffee, were more than worth it to have the mountain seemingly to ourselves.

How those tunnels through the hills, built around 30 years ago, transformed the island! Journeys that would once have taken forever are now swift: little more than an hour to cross nearly the whole of Madeira's 35-mile length, from eastern Machico to tiny Paúl do Mar in the west, where you can sometimes see the legendary green flash, a rare ray of emerald that appears on the horizon just before the sun sets.

Though travel time was minimal, those short commutes gave us a crucial window to sightsee and revive our appetites between meals. Which was vital when lunch at the hilltop Quinta do Barbusano was espetadas prepared by owner Tito Brazão and dinner was multiple courses at Galáxia Skyfood on the 16th floor of the Savoy Palace , a gleaming hotel that opened in 2019. The food played skillfully with Madeiran tradition. The panelo, a traditional banquet of stewed pork and sweet potatoes, had been reinvented as a taco; dessert was a banana poached in rum and accessorized, cheekily, with a communion wafer.

In the interim, we walked Funchal — past Mercado dos Lavradores, a buzzing Art Deco market, to the ocher São Tiago fortress, with a stop at a newly restored chapel dedicated by fishermen to their patron saint, Pedro Gonçalves Telmo. Did he protect his worshippers? I hope so. In the 16th century, they covered the ceiling in paintings to honor him.

This humble building was a stark contrast to the imposing Funchal Cathedral, built from dark-red volcanic rock that had been dragged down the coast from Cabo Girão, the island's highest sea cliff. It's a stunning profusion of tile, marble, paint, and gold leaf; not an inch of its interior is undecorated. Begun in the 1490s, it radiates the wealth and pride of an island that was the greatest sugar producer in the world — at least until the Portuguese realized that the cane used to produce their "white gold" would grow much better in their newest colonial outpost, Brazil. This economic disaster forced Madeira to refocus on wine, leaving just enough sugarcane to make agricultural rum, the basis of a weapons-grade drink called poncha .

The best places to brave this concoction are the tiny drinking dens that crowd the narrow streets of Câmara de Lobos, a fishing village. In Bar Number Two, there's barely room to stand at the counter, but it's worth doing to see owner Elmano Reis pound rum with sugarcane honey and juice from giant local lemons, the muscle in his forearm jumping in rhythm as he thumped and twirled the mexilhote , or wooden baton. His measures would have quenched the thirst of a desert wanderer, if this had been water — which, at 100 proof, it certainly wasn't. The taste was dangerously pleasant. "We drink this in winter when we have a cold," my guide, Célia Mendonça, said. Certainly honey and lemon is a universal remedy, but I wondered whether this potion cured sufferers or finished them off entirely.

Drinks in hand, we edged out the back door into dazzling sunshine. Patrons of neighboring bars relaxed at tables and fishing boats bobbed in front of us. No wonder that when Winston Churchill visited the island, he went there to paint. He stayed at Reid's Palace, an enormous pink hotel on a cliff, designed with its most magnificent side facing the sea. Now managed by Belmond, the property was built in 1891 to bedazzle the wealthy foreigners who, until the 1960s, all arrived by ship — and were then carried to the hotel in hammocks.

This service has long since been discontinued, but Reid's, with its grand pianos and chandeliers, its cream tea on the elegant checkered balcony looking out through lush tropical gardens toward the water, is still a bastion of historic gentility. Churchill must surely have felt at home; George Bernard Shaw, being Irish, possibly less so, although he did take tango lessons. ("Shaw Admits Learning the Tango at Madeira, but Has Neither Time nor Youth for It Now" ran a headline in The New York Times in 1926.)

We took a look at the other end of the rum-making process, too, at Engenhos do Norte, the only producer still using steam power to press and distill the sugarcane, in a vast shed full of copper containers and 19th-century machinery. The metal was all painted bright blue, the same color as the dye used to mark the patterns on the material in another traditional island industry, embroidery. Perhaps it was a coincidence. Or perhaps, Madeirans working indoors, whether on gargantuan machines or on delicate stitching in the Bordal embroidery workshop, crave a reminder that the sea is just outside.

"Hello gorgeous!" whispered Margarida Sousa, as the first dolphin glided alongside our motorboat. We had already marveled at a glossy dark arc that Sousa, who studied marine biology, informed us was the back of a Bryde's whale, probably around 40 feet long. Tracking the animals is forbidden, so two people on separate cliffs scanned the water and called to inform the skipper where to head. "If the phone rings a lot, it's a good sign!" she explained.

The phone rang a lot. When the dolphins flanked us, we slid into the water, dangling from ropes to minimize splashing. I dipped my head into a quiet turquoise world where the beaked inhabitants seemed to smile encouragingly, their eyes outlined in black, Cleopatra-style. A mother nuzzled her baby; their playmates, black and white with a patch of yellow, dipped and rose. We wore masks but no snorkels, and I was so absorbed that remembering to breathe became a nuisance.

After reluctantly returning to shore, we spent the afternoon at Fajã dos Padres, an organic farm with a simple waterside restaurant below the towering Cabo Girão. We took comfort in a lovely lunch — black scabbard fish, a local specialty; lapas harvested on the rocks outside; and vegetables from owner Catarina Vilhena Correia's garden. We had already tried one highly unusual product of this place: a deliciously citrusy 1993 Frasqueira, a single-vintage Madeira that must be aged for at least 20 years. This version was made from an ancient variety of the Malvasia grape, thought lost until a vine was spotted on Correia's property.

The next day we drove to Porto Moniz, on the island's northwestern tip, where torrents of seawater poured thrillingly into pools hollowed out of the black volcanic rock. The water was cool but the view spectacular, cliffs rearing on each side, moss spilling over them like lava flow — and, of course, the ocean just beyond.

It flows through all my memories of this trip, from the walks to the extraordinary wine that wouldn't exist without it. That wine was all I took home with me, which at least means that, anytime I like, I can pour a glass of chilled Madeira, a drink as fond of travel as I am and even more shaped by it, and briefly be transported, via those distinctive flavors, back to that sunny island and its sustaining sea.

Making the Most of Madeira

Where to stay.

Les Suites at the Cliff Bay : This sleek newcomer has 23 suites. Suites from $708.

Quinta da Casa Branca : A garden oasis in the heart of Funchal. Rooms from $230 .

Reid's Palace, a Belmond Hotel : This cliff-top icon from the 19th century dazzles in pink. Rooms from $966.

Where to Eat and Drink

Bar Number Two : Grab a glass of poncha at Câmara de Lobos's most charming drinking den.

Casa de Pasto das Eiras : A humble joint near Funchal with classic dishes and unbeatable views. Entrées $6–$12.

Fajã dos Padres : This organic farm in Quinta Grande has excellent local food and wine. Entrées $13–$46.

Galáxia Skyfood : At this restaurant in the Savoy Palace Hotel, disco-lite décor belies a sophisticated menu. Entrées $24-$50.

Kampo : Find surprising, seasonal fare at Madeira's most innovative restaurant. Entrées $16-$66.

Pátio das Babosas : Visit this mountainside spot for stellar seafood and views of Funchal. Entrées $8–$24.

Blandy's Wine Lodge : On the Funchal waterfront, Blandy's is one of the isle's most storied Madeira houses.

Bordal: A look at this Funchal factory's intricate embroidery, a Madeira tradition, is not to be missed.

Engenhos do Norte : This rum distillery is a last vestige of Madeira's once dominant sugarcane industry.

Monte Palace Madeira : The lush gardens are reachable via a scenic cable car.

Quinta do Barbusano : Try the Aragonez at this winery on the northern coast.

How to Book

Tempo VIP : Deep connections across the island make this company the one to call for tour bookings.

A version of this story first appeared in the October 2021 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline The Big Blue.

Madeira Itinerary: Incredible 3 to 7-Day Trips & Tips for First Timers

We fell head over heels in love with Madeira! If you are not familiar with Madeira, it is a Portuguese island sitting in the Atlantic Ocean between Portugal and Morocco.

Famous for its year-round warm climate, Madeira is one of the most mesmerizing destinations we’ve ever visited. Still relatively untouched, with wild eucalyptus forests, picturesque villages, and breathtaking views. We got rewarded with dramatic vistas stretching as far as the horizon anywhere we went around the island.

We spent one week in Madeira in December 2020 and wanted to share our experience . So let’s take a look at this very detailed 7 day Madeira Itinerary, where we share with you some of the best places to see, hikes to enjoy, how to travel around the island, where to stay, and a few more handy tips.

How much time do you need for a good Madeira itinerary?  

Madeira is a small island with tons of activities and opportunities for exploration. It’s best to take your time and spend at least a week scouting the island. Seven days are enough to get to know this enticing destination. But, if possible, stay and enjoy the island’s pleasures for longer. 

Madeira Itinerary: Incredible 3 to 7-Day Trips & Tips for First Timers

We left Germany and boarded a flight to the Portuguese island of Madeira. We hoped to get away from the darkness and cold for at least a week. 

Once in Madeira, we picked up our rental car before driving to our rented apartment in Funchal.

We enjoyed a quiet calm evening. It was actually raining, and after a short visit to the grocery store, we had dinner in the apartment.  The next day we were ready and looking forward to seeing what the island has to offer.

Day 1: Exploring Funchal Old Town, Monte Palace

Most tourists coming to Madeira stay in Funchal , the island’s capital and its largest city. Although separated from the mainland, it’s the sixth-largest city in Portugal. It is quite old as its first settlement dates back to the 15th century.

Packed with historical landmarks, it’s one of the country’s most famous touristic cities. Funchal combines the old town atmosphere and the island’s inspirational vibe.

Funchal Farmers Market

We arrived in Funchal before noon and parked our car in the center, just next to the market – Mercado dos Lavradores. Let me tell you that if you haven’t visited Mercado Dos Lavradores, you haven’t visited Funchal. 

The Market was established in 1940 and is located on Rua Brigadeiro Oudinot and Rua Hospital Velho. Designed by Edmundo Tavares, it’s also an important local architectural site.

Open from Monday through Saturday, the market has fruit, vegetables, herbs, fish, and flowers. It’s the city’s “melting pot,” combining various cultures and uniting residents with tourists.

On the 23d of December, locals celebrate Christmas with drinks and traditional dishes. The market is busiest on weekday mornings, which is also when you have the most local goods options.

Funchal Old Town  

We continued our way up towards the historic buildings of Zona Velha, the first settlement’s place. History enthusiasts, architecture buffs like us will enjoy the area’s atmosphere. 

We enjoyed Corpo Santo Chapel, the original 15th-century building, and visited the Socorro Church. Then, we took a walk on Rua de Santa Maria, the oldest street in Funchal . Many local businesses, like boutiques and small factories, are also in the Old Town.  

At night, the Old Town comes alive and fills up with street artists creating a unique atmosphere. Bars and restaurants invite the city’s visitors for a delicious glass of the Puncha. It’s a local Madeira drink made from rum, lemon, and honey. 

Funchal Cable Car Experience  

See the city from the bird’s view in one of the comfortable cable cars in Funchal. Two cable cars connect various parts of the city. Enjoy incredible views of the town and its surroundings and the Port of Funchal. 

The Madeira Cable Car is a part of the Old Town and will take you from Funchal to Monte in 15 minutes. The admission is 16 euros per person, with a 50% discount for children (7-14), and a free entry for younger guests. 

The Botanical Garden Cable Car connects the Botanical Garden Station with Monte. It’s somewhat cheaper than the Madeira Cable Car. You’ll pay 13 euros per roundtrip adult ticket and 7 euros for a child’s ticket (6-11). The trip takes about 9 minutes and is a cool way to enjoy the botanical garden and the city’s highlights from above.

Don’t miss an opportunity to come back down by a toboggan ride in a traditional wicker basket sled. Used by locals before, these sleds are one of the must-do things in Madeira. It can go at a speed of up to 30 km per hour and is a fun way to travel to Funchal. However, it will cost you from 25 to 40 euros, depending on how many people are riding. 

Monte Palace Tropical Gardens

The Monte Palace is a 70,000-square-meter area featuring a beautiful garden, a small lake, and a museum. The botanical garden holds a collection of more than 100,000 species. They include orchids, azaleas, ferns, cycads, and more.

All plants are from different parts of the world. You can see swans and ducks at the small lake. Peacocks and chickens are wandering casually around the gardens. Visitors can also indulge in two oriental gardens’ beauty and see valuable and rare Koi fish.

Since 1991, the Monte Palace Madeira Museum has been displaying the region’s culture and nature. There are more than 1000 sculptures in one of the finest private mineral collections. About 700 kinds are on display, coming from Portugal, Brazil, South Africa, and North America.

There are also many tile panels representing one of the country’s largest collections. This collection comes second after the National Tile Museum. 

The garden is open every day from 9:30 am till 6:00 pm, while the museum welcomes visitors from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. You can take a free guided tour, but you’ll need to book it in advance. The admission is 12,50 euros for everyone 15 years and older.

Santa Catarina Park

This amazing park is not far from Cristiano Ronaldo Museum. So you should definitely have walk and enjoy the peaceful vibes this park offers, while you are around.

The park has also great instagrammable places that you should not miss. We enjoyed a little break from the busy city of Funchal while we were there and I think you should do the same 🙂

Where to Stay in Funchal?

We stayed at Santa Cruz Village Hotel . Teixeira Villa is also a great alternative. Both of them are beautiful stays, offer generous breakfast, and are strategically located on the island.

Day 2 : São Lourenço, Ribeiro Frio

Vereda da ponta de são lourenço.

Our first stop on the second day was Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço.

Situated in the East, Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço features fabulous landscapes, unique flora, and fauna. This coastal 7km track took us to the furthest eastern point of the island. The area is famous for its rock formations, created by volcanic erosions over many years. Located about half an hour from Funchal, we got to the trailhead by car.

We spent a couple of hours clambering over rocks and walking along the peninsula. This area was surprisingly busy, but we managed to get off the beaten path and enjoy some isolated views.

Balcões de Ribeiro Frio

Starting at Ribeiro Frio, a natural park north of the island, it’s a short walk to the famous Vereda Dos Balcões. After that, it’s an easy 3 km roundtrip hike, which follows the Levada of Serra do Faial. Finally, you’ll indulge in the majestic forest with laurel trees, Madeira mahogany, blueberry, and orchids.

The renowned Vereda Dos Balcões is a genuine treat with incredible views over the Ribeira da Metade valley. In addition, you’ll see the Laurisilva forest, classified as a World Heritage by UNESCO. The island’s highest peaks, Pico do Areeiro, Pico do Gato, and Pico das Torres, are also visible.

If the weather allows, you can see The Hydroelectric Plant of Fajã da Nogueira.

Day 3: Hike Pico do Ariero to Pico Ruivo (Madeira itinerary highlight!)

By far the highlight of our Madeira itinerary and, to be honest, one of the highlights of my entire life was Pico do Arieiro. The word ‘speechless’ is thrown around a lot but never have I been more speechless in my life. Madeira is just full of scenic hikes. Of course, you won’t be able to do all of them on your trip, but at least choose the best hikes on the island .

PR1 Pico do Arieiro Hike

This route is an unforgettable experience and provides stunning views of the island. Pico do Arieiro is the island’s third-highest peak. Most of the time, we were walking above the clouds at the height of 1500 meters. 

You can choose to take either one of the two trails – eastern (easier but longer) or western (longer, but steeper). Both will connect you with Pico das Torres and Pico Ruivo. It takes a 45-minute drive from Funchal, and there’s an enormous parking lot. At Pico do Arieiro, you’ll find an observation deck, a small cafe, and a gift shop.

On your hike, you’ll also see Ninho da Manta viewpoint (great for birdwatching!) and a vast area called Pedra Rija, a few short tunnels, and many other neat spots. The ending point of the hike is at the Achadas Teixeira.

If you’re not afraid of the challenge, hike back to Pico do Arieiro or hire a taxi, which will pick you up and bring you back. Unfortunately, it can cost up to 100 euros, and you have to book it in advance.

Insider Tip: Many adventurous people camp in this breathtaking place. If you want to try this unique experience, be sure you are well prepared and have all your camping essentials ready.

Day 4 : Santana, Parque das Queimadas, Ponta de São Jorge

After the challenging hike from Pico do Ariero to Pico Ruivo, we took the fourth day of the Madeira itinerary much easier. After that, we just drove around to explore a couple of different towns in Madeira.

Santana is a beautiful village stretching along the northern coast of Madeira. Known for its traditional triangle-shaped homes, this town is a must-visit stop. The homes are natural stone with a straw rooftop and used to be local farmers’ residences in the 16th century.

There are five historic houses. Each is a shop selling souvenirs, traditional foods, plants, and other local goods. There’s a parking lot not far from the homes, which is quite comfortable for those traveling by car. If you visit the village in July, there’s a massive festival of traditional music and dancing. 

Parque Florestal das Queimadas

Located in Santana, The Queimadas Forest Park is Madeira’s natural gem. Start at the parking lot and head deep into the park to reach the mesmerizing Levada do Caldeirão Verde. It’s a spectacular walk and an ideal opportunity to escape from urban life.

Enjoy the amazing flora and fauna, with waterfalls and exciting birds seen on-site. This natural area opens up from a different angle in any weather, whether rainy, cloudy, or sunny. Enjoy the views of the coast and a relaxing natural aura.

Farol da Ponta de São Jorge

Built in 1959 on the island’s north-eastern coast, Farol da Ponta de São Jorge is an active lighthouse. Located on the top of Sao Jorge cliffs, it grants fascinating views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a lovely place to take pictures before you continue exploring the island. 

Should you spend a night in Santana?

Because of the lack of available stays, we had to spend all our night near Funchal. But we highly recommend that you spend a night in Santana , as the city is worth it in the early morning and the ocean views with the morning fog are stunning!

Day 5: Levada das 25 Fontes, Fanal forest

Pr6 levada das 25 fontes.

Located in Rabaçal in Paul da Serra, Levada das 25 Fontes is an iconic trail in Madeira. You can access it via the regional road ER110, and from there, you can walk or take a bus to reach the start of the trail. 

There are two trails with two different parking lots. Both are part of one of the island’s most visited levadas. The walk is about 11 km roundtrip and will lead you to some of the island’s most outstanding sites.

You will see Lagoa das 25 Fontes, 25 water springs streaming down into the lagoon. If you feel courageous, you can take a swim in the cool refreshing water. You can also see Lagoa do Vento or Lagoon of the Wind and the impressive Risco Waterfall.

Fanal Forest

Located on the north-western end of Madeira, the Final Forest is a great Instagrammable spot. In addition, it is a scenic location for photography. It’s about 50 km from Funchal and 10 km east of Ribeira Da Janela. So it won’t be hard to find if you enter Faial Parking in your navigation. 

With its curled trees and mysterious fog, this ancient forest looks like a fairy tale scene. There are three main ways to enjoy the forest. The easiest way is to park your car in the parking lot and climb the stairs to the local viewpoint.

Then there are two trails available – Vereda do Final and Levada dos Cedros. The first one is an 11-km hike (one way!) through a well-preserved Laurissilva forest. The second one will keep you walking for about 6 km until you reach a magical tiered waterfall.

Day 6:  Bridal Veil Falls, Seixal Natural Pools, Ribeira De Janela, São Vicente

On our sixth day  Madeira Itinerary, we went on a road trip along the island’s West Coast and up to the North coast. Here’s where we stopped off at:

Bridal Veil Falls

The Véu da Noiva Viewpoint, located close to Seixal, is a very picturesque viewpoint. This romantic setting got its name thanks to the Véu da Noiva waterfall, which looks like a bride’s veil. It’s one of the best vistas on the island’s northern coast.

For the visitors’ convenience, there’s a parking lot right at the viewpoint. It’s about a 40 km drive from Funchal and is close to many popular attractions of the Seixal area. 

If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, take a short hike up to Ponta do Poiso for a better view of the Bridal Veil Waterfall. Also, look out for a hidden path on which you can discover another waterfall. 

Seixal Natural Pools

For epic views and photos, head out to explore Seixal Natural Pools. It’s one of the island’s top attractions, and it’s free of charge! Located near Laje Beach, it’s a secluded area, usually not overwhelmed by tourists.

It has all the amenities an explorer might need – bathrooms, showers, changing rooms, and even a snack stand. In addition, you can park on the main road and walk down the nearby path. 

The site’s trademark is a collection of tidal pools. They are rock formations created by volcanic activity in the past. There you’ll find photogenic rock caves and arches. The pools’ water is crystal-clear, so they are a popular swimming destination. It’s safe on a calm day, but watch out for the tide on a stormy day.

Ribeira De Janela

Ribeira da Janela is a small village in the Porto Moniz area, named after the island’s longest river. It’s an important agricultural area for the country, producing potatoes and grapes. However, the village is best known for its wonderful Levada. It’s easy to reach from the regional road ER101. Look out for the sign stating Ribeira da Janela or Lamaceiros. 

Levada’s highlights are exceptional coastal views, cliffs, and a couple of small waterfalls. The local greenery includes eucalyptus, laurel trees, ferns, banana plants, and passion fruit. 

São Vicente

If you want to add one more stop to your itinerary for today, drive to São Vicente.

Sao Vicente is a small village located between Santana and Porto Moniz. It’s a lovely stop with stunning beaches, restaurants, and bars. However, it isn’t easy to reach by public transport, so it is most appropriate for those traveling by car. 

The village is best known for the Sao Vicente Caves and Volcanism Center, open to the public since 1996. It is a series of volcanic caves formed 890 thousand years ago by a volcanic eruption. Take a walk through the labyrinthine lava tubes, see crystal-clear water pools and incredible stalactites. 

The Volcano Centre is open every day from Tuesday to Saturday. It offers various educational and entertaining exhibits about Madeira’s history. There is also a gift shop and a cafeteria available. The admission is 8 euros. 

Where to Stay in Seixal?

Seixal offers great hotel deals . Check them out! We wanted to spend a night there but -as we already mentioned- we didn’t find any available good deals.

Day 7: Dolphin and whale watching

As this is the last day of your Madeira itinerary, you can either just relax or go for a fun activity, depending on when your flight departs. Actually, Madeira is an ideal place for whale and dolphin watching.

Most companies offer a tour on a catamaran or a speedboat, both of which take about three hours. A catamaran tour is a luxurious experience. The boat has a bathroom, indoor and outdoor seating, snacks, and drinks.

The speedboat tour is the fastest way to cover long distances and see more species over time. It’s also more suitable for those who are prone to seasickness. The catamaran tour costs around 10 euros per person, while the speedboat is about 5 euros per person.  

What else to do in Madeira?

If you have extra days to spend on this amazing island (always worth it!), here is further suggestions that we also wanted to explore:

Explore the Valley of the Nuns

This mystical valley is about a 45-min bus ride from Funchal (check bus 81 that regularly goes there). The bus stops at a fantastic viewpoint, where you can watch the whole scenery from. The mountains from both sides that surround the tiny village down the valley form a great panorama.

Best of all: there will usually be clouds around making the landscape even more magic. Being at about 1000m above sea level, the clouds usually move fast and change the climate very quickly.

Day Trip to Christo Rei

Christo Rei is another great viewpoint in the island. It near the city of Gatajau and easily reachable by public transportation if you don’t have a car. The views up there are best during sunset and blue hour. You will fill the true charm of the island with the wind and the ocean view in front of you. It is an experience to remember.

You could also walk down to the beach after sunset and enjoy a refreshing (or warm) drink after a long day. That’s a reward to remember 😉

How to get to Madeira?  

No railroads or highways are connecting Madeira Island with the rest of Portugal. It’s almost 900km away from the mainland, so you’ll have to fly or take a boat to reach this dreamlike destination. 

The best, fastest, and most convenient way is flying. There are direct flights from Europe with an excellent connection to the U.S. and other countries. If traveling by air, you’ll arrive at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in Santa Cruz. It’s 15-20 minutes away from Funchal. 

The most practical way is to visit Lisbon first and take a direct 90-minute flight by TAP Air Portugal. Lufthansa, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines offer great comfort at reasonable prices (check their deals by clicking on the respective links!). If on a budget, fly economy class with one of the low-cost airlines like Easyjet and Ryanair. 

Many cruise lines and ferries are arriving at the Port of Funchal. This option takes longer but allows you to indulge in the beautiful vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. 

How to get around Madeira? 

The most efficient and handy way to travel around Madeira is by car. We booked a rental car before the trip and picked up the vehicle at the airport. This was a great move as it helped us save time and money. When you click the link, you’ll find plenty of options, like Sixt or Europcar, which usually have great special offers.

We made sure to book a compact car, in perfect condition with full insurance for under 200 euros. We wanted to enjoy our week instead of worrying about the cost of returning the car and having a  hassle-free Island experience.

Renting a car is the most cost-efficient way to explore the area. It gave us lots of freedom as we could make a stop at any point on the map. Keep in mind that Madeira roads are most suitable for experienced drivers.

There are quite a few tunnels, steep driveways, and a few sharp turns above the cliffs. It might be intimidating for a new driver. Here are all our tips and advice about driving in Madeira .

Public transportation  

To save some money, you can alternatively travel by local buses operating around the whole island. It’s the cheapest way to get to places, but it’s also the most limiting for a 7-day Madeira Itinerary. Some of Madeira’s attractions might not be on the public transport route.

Some buses are operating only around Funchal, the largest city on the island. Then there are red buses operating in the island’s West and green buses operating in the East. You can buy a single ticket or a weekly pass, and both are available on the bus. 

What’s the best time to plan Madeira itinerary? 

Did you know that Madeira is known as the Island of Eternal Spring ? It’s because its climate is very mild, and there’s no bad timing to travel to Madeira. The temperatures are in their mid-20s and comfortable year-round. 

It’s a popular tourist destination so expect some crowds. If you want to avoid them, try visiting between October and February. There are no heavy rainfall seasons on the island. The sunniest and driest weather is between March and September. 

The island is home to fantastic hiking trails, so to do that, travel here in April or May. That’s also when charming and aromatic flowers and trees are in full blossom. 

Madeira itinerary: Final Thoughts

Madeira, the Atlantic Pearl, is a dream holiday destination. It’s ideal for romantic getaways, family trips, and fun vacations with friends. It is full of movie-like landscapes, historical and cultural attractions.

I  hope this 7-day road trip itinerary for Madeira will inspire you to visit this beautiful island!

While in Portugal, take the opportunity to extend your trip and discover the hidden gems of this beautiful country following our 10-day Portugal itinerary !

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Rym is the cofounder of Walk Beside Me Blog. With a knack for connecting with people and cultures, she's explored more than 70 countries over the last 10 years. Rym's passion for travel blogging shines through in her 50+ blog posts on Walk Beside Me, making her a true travel expert.

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Plan unforgettable road trips!

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

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

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

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

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

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

My favorite platform to rent a car in Madeira: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Catamaran tour to go whale watching

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

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

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

5 Madeira travel tips to help with planning / itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4 – Don’t expect sandy dreamy beaches 

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

#5 – Plan some flexibility to adapt to the weather

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

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

Plan your dream trip in Madeira thanks to my guide

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

5 Tips to travel around Madeira

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

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

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

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

#8 – Rent a car with enough power

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

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

#9 – Compare prices

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

Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 Madeira accommodation tips

#11 – one accommodation or several.

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

I think the best option is:

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

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

#12 – Should you stay in Funchal?

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

Otherwise, Funchal may not be the best choice because:

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

See my article about where to stay in Funchal .

#13 – Best areas to stay in Madeira

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

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

More tips on my article about where to stay in Madeira

#14 – Choose accommodation with swimming pool

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

#15 – Always check the parking situation

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

I don’t drink coffee

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

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

#16 – wake up early to see sunrises.

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

#17 – Get the cheap Madeiraweather app

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

#18 – Is Madeira safe? Be aware of scams

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

#19 – Hike early or late

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

#20 – Carry cash

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

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

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

#21 – ride at least one cable car.

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

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

Learn more in my article about the Madeira cable cars .

#22 – Do at least one levada walk

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

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

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

See my article about the best hikes and levada walks .

#23 – Do at least one swim in natural pools

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

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

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

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

#24 – Do admire the North coast

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

#25 – Go up to the Madeira mountains

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

#26 – Be fascinated by the volcanic history

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

#27 – Appreciate the high cliffs Cabo Girao or alternative

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

#28 – Find secret places

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

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

Check out by favorite Madeira “secret” places .

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

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

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

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

Check out some boat tour options .

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

#30 – Visit at least one garden

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

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

#31 – Madeira beaches – Choose the one for you

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

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

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

#32 – Enjoy the food and drinks

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

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

#33 – Try local drinks

Madeira is also famous for 2 types of drinks:

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

#34 – Know the reality of the Desertas islands tour

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

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

#35 – Collect viewpoints

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

#36 – Choose your museums

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

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

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

#37 – Do something unique

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

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

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

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

Porto Santo’s highlights include:

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

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

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

Madeira Travel guide – prepare & pack for a Madeira Trip

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

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

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

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

Just don’t forget:

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

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

Adapter to charge all your equipments

#40 – Pack for walking / hiking

My recommendations are:

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

See all Osprey backpacks options

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

Learn more about the Garmin inReach Mini

#41 – Bring the right camera gear for Madeira

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

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

Olympus EM1 Mark III with 12-100 lens

Peak design Capture Clip

#42 – Learn a few words of Portuguese

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

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

Want to see more of the best Madeira offers?

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

Planning a trip to Madeira?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

Want to see more of MADEIRA?

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It’s not surprising that over 1 million tourists travel to Madeira every year. Not only is it one of the safest travel destinations in the world, but tourists can also enjoy an all-year-round summer climate even in winter, gorgeous landscapes, and tropical-like beaches. Madeira was elected the  “World’s Leading Island Destination” from 2015 to 2021 by the World Travel Awards.

Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal, like the Azores. It’s an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, 400 kilometers to the north of the Canary Islands. The archipelago includes the islands of Madeira, Porto Santo, and the Desertas. Around 250,000 people live on the island and the capital is Funchal. For soccer fans, Funchal is the hometown of Cristiano Ronaldo. The airport is actually named after him!

Things to do in Madeira Portugal

Let’s take a look at the best things to do in Madeira.

1. Enjoy the Views from Miradouros

Madeira has plenty of miradouros (viewpoints) that provide gorgeous views. The best way to get to these are definitely by car. The most famous viewpoints in Madeira are Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos in Funchal and in Porto Santo, Miradouro da Portela. If you have time, also stop by these miradouros : Balcoes, Veu da Noiva and Eira da Achada.

2. Take a Ride on a Cable Car

The cable cars in Madeira are a great way to see the island and ocean views. This is the perfect activity for the whole family. The best cable car is the one in Funchal, a 20-minute ride that goes up to 560 meters high. We also recommend the Achadas da Cruz cable car, on the Northern part of Madeira in Porto Moniz. This cable car is around 450 meters high and passes through the Fajã da Quebrada Nova where you can see crystal clear waters.

3. Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching

Madeira is known all over the world for dolphin and whale watching. There are over 20 dolphin species and around 3 whale species you can spot. The best time to see whales, in particular, is between April and October, although the pilot and sperm whales can be seen at any season. You won’t have any problem spotting dolphins as these are around all year. You must book a tour to go dolphin and whale watching, where you will learn more about these amazing marine life animals. We recommend the following tours:

• Sailing catamaran experience , a dolphin and whale watching cruise from Funchal for  €25.
• Speed boat experience, a dolphin, whale, turtle, and bird watching tour for €45.
• VIP luxury catamaran experience, a dolphin and whale watching trip with champagne, cocktails, and snacks included for €57.

See more dolphin and whale watching experiences in Madeira

4. best beaches in madeira portugal.

Madeira and Porto Santo are a hotspot for tourists for many reasons, but predominantly its quality beaches. You have beaches all over the island that feature gorgeous rock and mountain views. Water temperatures are warm all year round, rating between 19°(66°F) in the winter and 24°C (75°F) in the summer. The best month to visit for warm water and the perfect beach days is in September. The beach options in Madeira are endless so luckily we have selected the best beaches in Madeira Portugal:

• Porto do Seixal beach (sandy)
• Porto Santo Beach (sandy)
• Praia do Vigário (pebbles)
• Machico Bay Beach (sandy)
• Prainha Beach (sandy)

5. Experience the “Basket Cars”

A quirky transportation method in Madeira are the “basket cars”, with more than one hundred years of history. These cars are made of wood and wicker and can carry two to three people. The most fun part is that these basket cars are literally a big basket going down a two kilometers hill with no mechanical breaks, only controlled by two specialized men who make this experience unforgettable.

6. Take a Guided Tour

Madeira has a lot to offer and discovering the island with the help of an expert local provides a unique experience. No more spending time in touristy attractions filled with people, it’s time to visit Madeira like a local! Here are the best guided tours in Madeira for a memorable trip:

Madeira Food & Cultural Tour, walking tour in Funchal with guide to discover food and culture for €70.

Full-Day Madeira North West Coast Safari from Funchal, includes swimming spots for €37.

Madeira Island Private Wine Full-day Tour, discover the wine culture in Madeira on an Open Top 4WD for €200 (price for 5 people).

See All Tours in Madeira

5 best restaurants in madeira portugal: where to eat in madeira.

Let’s take a look at the best restaurants in Madeira.

1. O Celeiro Restaurant

Highly praised by locals, O Celeiro is located in downtown Funchal and was founded in 1986, making it one of the oldest restaurants in the region. Its interior is decorated with dark woods, regional tapestries, and Portuguese tiles. This typical restaurant has a variety of Portuguese food as well as dishes specific to Madeira. You can enjoy their regional dishes on this place’s outdoor terrace. We recommend their codfish and octopus, as well as their steaks. A meal here is around €15.

2. Restaurante Il Gallo D’Oro

This restaurant has two Michelin stars and is part of the 5-star hotel in Funchal called The Cliff Bay. Il Gallo d’Oro was the first restaurant in Madeira to receive a Michelin star in 2009. It is also known for sustainability in its gastronomy and was awarded a “Green Star” by the Michelin guide for this reason. Chef Benoît Sinthon produces aromatic cuisine that is inspired by Iberian cookies and sources many ingredients from the PortoBay garden. The cuisine showcases regional products from Madeira. You can get a meal here for €75.

3. Quinta do Furão

Located in the Quinta do Furão hotel in Santana, this restaurant opened in 1993 and features regional dishes from Madeira, as well as international cuisine. The restaurant has two main spaces: an interior room with high walls, a wooden ceiling, and two fireplaces, as well as an outside area with a terrace offering a breathtaking view. We recommend the oxtail soup and the slow-cooked lamb leg. This restaurant also has plenty of vegetarian options. You can get a meal here for €20.

Known for its large portions, Zarcos , located in Funchal, offers Madeirense dishes and traditional Portuguese food. The interior is decorated in an authentic Portuguese atmosphere, with wooden touches and stoned walls. The restaurant also has a terrace where you can try some food and enjoy a sea view. They specialize in meat dishes cooked in a fire barbecue. We recommend their sauce pepper steak. You can get a meal here for €10 to €15.

5. The Snug

The Snug is a modern smokehouse located in the Old Town that has an inviting atmosphere and is well-known for its friendly hospitality. They serve international food like American burgers, as well as traditional Portuguese food and Madeirense dishes. They also offer vegan and vegetarian options. We recommend trying their tasty milkshakes, burgers, and sardines. You can get a meal here for €15.

Best Clubs Madeira

• Vespas Club
• Mini Eco Bar

Top Bars Madeira

• 23 Vintage Bar
• Dash Cocktail Bar
• Bananas Pub
• Taberna Popular
• Venda Velha

Transportation in Madeira Portugal: How to get around Madeira

The best way to get around Madeira is by renting a car. You can pick up and return a car at the airport. You can rent a car starting at €35 for 3 days. Are Madeira roads safe to drive on? Definitely. There are three types of roads in Madeira: highways, uphill double lane roads, and narrow steep roads. Make sure to drive slowly on the latter and you will be safe.

You can also make use of public transportation in Madeira. The bus system in Madeira is affordable and very reliable. There are four transport companies in Madeira: Horários do Funchal, SAM, Rodoeste and EACL (Empresa de Autocarros do Caniço). They all offer cheap prices and can get you around the island easily.

Frequently Asked Questions about Madeira, Portugal

Madeira location: where is madeira portugal.

Madeira is an archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, in the African plate, over 900 KM south of Portugal and over 700 KM west of the African coast. Even though it is quite far from Portugal, it is considered an autonomous region of Portugal, like the Azores. 

Madeira Weather: What is the weather like in Madeira Portugal?

Madeira Weather in January

• Average temperature 16°C ( 61°F)
• High temperature 18 °C (64 °F )
• Low temperature 14 °C (57 °F )
• Rainfall 108 mm
• Rainfall days 13 days

Madeira Weather in February

• Rainfall 72 mm
• Rainfall days 10 days

Madeira Weather in March

• Average temperature 16.5°C ( 62°F)
• High temperature 19 °C (66 °F )
• Rainfall 52 mm

Madeira Weather in April

• Rainfall 60 mm

Madeira Weather in May

• Average temperature 18.5°C ( 65°F)
• High temperature 21 °C (70 °F )
• Low temperature 16 °C (61 °F )
• Rainfall 15 mm
• Rainfall days 8 days

Madeira Weather in June

• Average temperature 20 .5°C ( 69°F)
• High temperature 23 °C (73 °F )
• Low temperature 18 °C (64 °F )
• Rainfall 9 mm
• Rainfall days 5 days

Madeira Weather in July

• Average temperature 21 .5°C (71 °F)
• High temperature 24 °C (75 °F )
• Low temperature 19 °C (66 °F )
• Rainfall 6 mm
• Rainfall days 4 days

Madeira Weather in August

• Average temperature 22 .5°C ( 73°F)
• High temperature 25 °C (77 °F )
• Low temperature 20 °C (68 °F )
• Rainfall 3 mm

Madeira Weather in September

• Average temperature 22 .5°C (73 °F)
• Rainfall 36 mm
• Rainfall days 9 days

Madeira Weather in October

• Average temperature 21 °C (70 °F)
• Rainfall 90 mm
• Rainfall days 12 days

Madeira Weather in November

• Average temperature 19 °C (66 °F)
• Low temperature 17 °C (63 °F )

Madeira Weather in December

• Average temperature 17.5 °C (64 °F)
• High temperature 20 °C (68 °F )
• Low temperature 15 °C (59 °F )
• Rainfall 81 mm
• Rainfall days 16 days

Is Madeira expensive? What is the cost of living in Madeira Portugal?

Madeira is a cheap place and the cost of living is quite low. Let’s go through the prices of most products and services in Madeira.

• A meal for two people will cost you around €15 to €30
• A half a liter beer costs €2.
• A one-way ticket for local transportation will not cost you more than €2.
• A mid-range bottle of wine costs €3.
• A one-bedroom in the city center to rent as housing costs between €300 and €700 a month.

Retire in Madeira: Is Madeira Portugal a good place to retire?

Madeira is a good place to retire. The retirement community in Madeira is quite large, with expats coming from all over the world, but mostly from the US and UK. Madeira is not only an affordable place to be, but expats can also access the public healthcare system, as well as other services at a great price. It’s a great place to purchase a house and the climate is mild, making Madeira the perfect place to retire for a slow-paced life.

Travel to Madeira from the UK: How can you travel to Madeira Portugal from the UK?

You can easily and affordable travel to Madeira Portugal from the UK. You can travel from various cities in the UK directly to Madeira. The flight is around 4 hours and costs a minimum of €60 usually. The following airports have flights to Madeira:

• Birmingham Airport
• Bristol Airport
• East Midlands Airport
• Gatwick Airport
• Glasgow Airport
• Leeds Airport
• Luton Airport
• London Heathrow
• Manchester Airport

Is Madeira Portugal family-friendly?

Madeira Portugal is a family-friend vacation place. The whole family can enjoy natural pools, beaches, playgrounds, and gardens that are suitable for all ages. Madeira is also incredibly safe and has low crime rates, making it a great place to visit with kids.

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Travel to the Madeira Islands

Madeira is a Portuguese island group located just off the west coast of Africa (about 300 miles from Morocco) that has become a popular American tourist destination in the winter season. However, while winter may be a popular season for travelers, spring is a great time to visit to see the lush vegetation of the islands in full bloom.

Madeira Island and the nearby Tenerife Island are both called "the island of eternal spring" since the  climate  is rather enticing in both destinations year-round. For instance, the average high in December hovers around 69 degrees Fahrenheit, and in the summer, the average highs don't crack 80. 

As a result, this small archipelago provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventures throughout the year. Although there aren't many cities to visit on Madeira Island, it's easy to stay a week in its capital, Funchal, which can serve as a hub while you explore the life and culture in smaller towns nearby.

Geography of the Islands: Getting to Madeira

Madeira was discovered by Portuguese sailors in 1418. The archipelago is made up of the main island of Madeira, the Madeiran's island paradise of Porto Santo, and the pair of deserted islands called Selvagens and Desertas.

Madeira Island, the largest of the island group, is 57 kilometers long and has over 150 kilometers of coastline. Located on the island, Funchal is the largest town and capital of the Madeira Autonomous Region, with a population of just over 100,000 people.

Unlike the green Madeira, Porto Santo , called the "Golden Island," has little vegetation but its 9 kilometer-long beach and moderate climate make it a major tourist draw for folks looking for tranquility if not desolation at the edge of Europe. Most of the population of Porto Santo lives in Vila Baleira, where you can visit a Christopher Columbus museum in the house reputedly occupied by the famous explorer. However, the rest of the island provides ample outdoor adventures worth discovering as well.

There are two airports in the island group, on Madeira (FNC) and Porto Santo (PXO), and Madeira and Porto Santo Islands are the only populated islands among them. However, there are ferry routes to Porto Santo, Selvagens, and Desertas from Madeira, which depart every morning around 9 a.m., which you can use to access the islands once you arrive by plane.

What to Do in Madeira

There's no shortage of fun things to do on the island of Madeira, from outdoor adventures through World Heritage sites to annual festivals and events in the island's major cities. Whatever time of year you visit, you're sure to find the perfect activity to add a little extra to your trip to the Madeira Islands.

• Madeira Carnival: A big attraction in Funchal with events  year-round. In spring, there are the flower celebrations, and in summer, the city hosts a Limpet festival.
• Blandy's Wine Lodge :  Located in the heart of Funchal, this destination offers tours featuring 200 years of Madeira wine. You can also book a stay at the famous lodge or attend one of the events hosted there throughout the year.
• Monte Toboggan Rides:  There are plenty of  unusual ways to get around  Madeira, but taking a toboggan sled from Monte down to Livramento, Funchal, has been a local favorite since the 1850s. You can start your journey down the two-kilometer hill at Nossa Senhora do Monte Church.
• Madeira Story Center : An interactive museum in Funchal that tells the history of the Archipelago through permanent and rotating exhibits.
• Laurisilva :  A UNESCO World Heritage site easily accessible from anywhere on the islands that features a laurel forest full of unique wildlife like the Madeiran long-toed pigeon.
• Levada Walks: Travel down shallow canals carved by 16th century Madeirans carrying water from the wet areas in the north to the more parched areas of the south. Since these canals pass through the forests of the island, they tend to be quite scenic for a day-long walking tour.

Where to Stay on the Madeira Islands

When it comes to finding a place on the islands to stay overnight, Funchal is the most popular destination on Madeira for overnight accommodations. Here, you'll find a variety of waterfront resorts and cost-efficient room rentals perfect for any budget or travel itinerary.

For budget travel, you can enjoy a fabulous stay at the Pestana Carlton Madeira on the waterfront of Funchal. The site offers a low price guarantee, which is quite reasonable for the quality of the hotel.

If you'd rather escape into the woods that surround the city, you can choose from one of many pousadas in the Luarissilva forest like the Pousada Dos Vinhaticos. In Portugal, a pousada is a government-owned and operated hotel or resort that serves traditional cuisine and is often housed in a converted historic landmark. 

You can also head up to the luxurious  Quinta do Monte is in the heart of Monte in the hills of Funchal, or for an intimate escape, spend Valentine's Day at Reid's Palace Hotel, which offers special couples' retreat packages during romantic holidays and celebrations throughout the year.

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More From Forbes

Portugal’s madeira island is going glam—thanks to this new luxury hotel.

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The Rolls-Royce arrival at the Reserve

Tarmac meet-and-greets. Exclusive airport lounges behind well-marked doors. Rolls-Royce transfers. Velvet ropes. These luxuries almost feel like something out of time, given the current obsession with discretion. But that’s what makes Madeira’s new Reserve hotel refreshing—it’s not afraid to be a place for people who want to flaunt their VIP status.

Rather, it leans into that attention-seeking, starting with its perch atop the Savoy Palace, a plant-covered behemoth of a hotel that dominates the cityscape of Funchal, the island’s capital. It shows off its hotel-within-the-hotel concept, with a separate entrance, top-hatted doormen and a guests-only elevator—the only one in the building to have a bench. The local press excitedly reported that Madeira’s most famous son, Cristiano Ronaldo, rang in 2024 watching the New Year’s fireworks from the rooftop.

And while most guests aren’t anywhere near that notable, the hotel staff does its best to make them feel like they are. The website's landing page promises that clients “will be accompanied by true luxury gatekeepers ready to make you feel like the most relevant person in the world.”

The rooftop infinity pool

Perhaps that’s excessive. But it’s undeniably convenient. Guests have access to a dedicated concierge—always at the ready on WhatsApp and good at learning every guest’s name—who does usual things like managing spa appointments and restaurant reservations and quickly answers less usual ones, like looking up the price of a postcard stamp or the points of sale and designer of the groovy ceramic fruit on display in the guests-only lounge, the Jacarandá Club.

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That designer would be Madeira native Nina Andrade Silva, who designed the Savoy Palace, which opened five years ago. She’s known for going all-in on wow factor designs, including the lace-inspired railings all over the hotel and the 33-foot-high lobby chandelier made of some four miles of metal chain.

A guest room in the Reserve

Her signature is still welcomely evident in the public areas of the main hotel, including the enormous, glittering outdoor pool at street level, and the forest-inspired spa, which at 33,000 square feet, is one of the largest in Europe. But to give the Reserve its own identity when they carved it out from the Savoy Palace, the owners commissioned local firm RH+ Arquitectos (who also worked on the main hotel that opened five years ago) to give the space a refresh.

The 40 rooms of the Reserve—on the top floors of what was previously a 349-room hotel—all have ocean views and an island-inspired color palette: serene shades of blue, brown, gray and green. There’s abundant light and space inside and another living area outdoors, sometimes with a private plunge pool.

Along with those, the rooms over the Reserve share a quiet solarium, jetted tub and infinity-edge pool 17 floors above the everything of Funchal. The facilities are a mirror image of those that are shared by the Savoy Palace’s other 300 rooms on the opposite end of the rooftop, but of course with far fewer people.

The dining room at Nikkei

The Reserve also has a second guests-only restaurant (besides the complementary a la carte breakfast and all-day dining menu at the Jacarandá Club). Nikkei is an Asian fusion project from noted sushiman Miguel Bértolo, who consulted with the hotel to develop a menu of Japanese dishes infused with flavors of Peru.

As is fitting for a hotel designed for VIPs, the dishes have their share of flourishes like a Wagyu beef starter with nitsuke egg yolk, truffle and ponzu sauce over parrotfish sashimi, and sumptuous scarlet prawns served over rice as donburi. And from its 16th-floor perch, it has dizzying views over the vertiginous landscape of Funchal and the hills beyond. It’s a place to take pleasure in being above it all.

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