Things To Do
in Machico
Machico is a charming coastal town located on the eastern part of Madeira Island in Portugal. Known for its picturesque landscapes, Machico offers beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxation and water activities. Visitors can explore historical sites like the Church of Our Lady of the Conception and the Fort of Saint John the Baptist.
The town also has a variety of local restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes.
- "olá" - hello
- "obrigado" - thank you
- "por favor" - please
- "desculpe" - excuse me/sorry
- "até logo" - see you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Prainha de Machico, enjoying the sun and sand. Take a refreshing swim in the calm waters before it gets too crowded.
Have lunch at a beachfront café serving fresh seafood. After eating, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, soaking in the gorgeous views.
Watch the sunset from the beach, capturing the perfect Instagram moment. Treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Madeiran dishes.
Start with a hike at the nearby Ribeiro Frio Natural Park. Enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful landscapes as you explore the well-marked trails.
Visit the charming village of Santana for lunch and try the iconic thatched houses. Afterward, explore the local shops or enjoy a scenic drive back to Machico.
Head to a local bar and unwind with a drink while listening to live music. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant with a view of the ocean.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and mountains.
- Mild climate year-round, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
- Rich history and culture, with traditional architecture and local festivals.
- Access to fresh, local produce and seafood.
- Less crowded compared to larger cities in Madeira, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Limited public transport options may make it difficult to explore other parts of the island.
- Higher cost of living compared to some parts of mainland Portugal.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for non-Portuguese speakers.
- May experience tourism fluctuations, impacting local businesses.
- Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers could pose challenges in communication.
Best Activities in Machico
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscape and coastline through various hiking trails around Machico, such as the Levada do Caniçal and Ponta de São Lourenço.
Enjoy water sports, swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball at the popular Machico Beach.
Take a bike ride along the coast or through the countryside to enjoy the scenic views and fresh air.
Embark on a boat tour from Machico to observe the marine life, including whales and dolphins, in their natural habitat.
Relax and enjoy a game of golf at the Santo da Serra Golf Club, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Tours
Uncover the best of Machico with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Machico
Visit one of these nice places.
Pico do Facho offers stunning panoramic views of Machico bay and the surrounding area, making it a prime location for photography and sightseeing.
Sao Roque viewpoint provides a breathtaking view over Machico and its bay, offering fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Largo da Praça, the main square in Machico, offers a blend of historical buildings, colorful scenery, and the charming atmosphere of the town, making it a great spot for capturing the local vibe.
Food in Machico
Machico Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A skewer of marinated beef, grilled to perfection and typically served with salad and fried maize.
Must-Try!
A round, soft bread made with sweet potato, often served with garlic butter and as an accompaniment to main dishes.
Grilled limpets, a local delicacy abundant along the shores of Madeira, offering a unique taste of the ocean.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Machico better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market in Funchal, a short drive from Machico, offers an array of fresh produce, fish, and regional specialties, providing a delightful sensory experience.
Operates on weekends, offering an assortment of fresh fruits, vegetables, and locally made products, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local food culture.
Various stalls lining the picturesque promenade offer traditional snacks such as 'bifana' (pork sandwich) and 'pastéis de nata' (custard tarts), providing a delightful on-the-go dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Machico, Portugal, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It's important to show respect by addressing individuals with their titles and last names, especially when meeting them for the first time.
Being punctual is highly valued in Portuguese culture, so it's respectful to arrive on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments in Machico.
When dining in Machico, it's polite to wait for the host to initiate the meal and to keep your hands on the table at all times, instead of on your lap. Additionally, it's customary to express appreciation for the meal by saying 'bom apetite' (enjoy your meal) before eating.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Machico with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Machico
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in restaurants and cafes in Machico, Portugal is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is common to leave a small tip of 5-10% for excellent service.
In Machico, Portugal, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. ATMs are easily accessible, and most establishments accept major international cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Machico.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Machico, Portugal. Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
Another great time to visit Machico, Portugal. Expect warm weather and lively outdoor activities.
Good time to visit Machico, Portugal. Expect cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage.
Machico, Portugal can still be visited in winter. Expect cooler temperatures and potential rain.
Machico at Night
Hiking in Machico
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail in the Madeira region, this Levada walk takes you through lush forests and along streams, leading to stunning waterfalls.
The second highest peak in Madeira, offering breathtaking views and a challenging hike with diverse landscapes, connecting to Pico Ruivo.
This hike offers scenic views of waterfalls and spectacular vegetation, following a canal that leads to the picturesque Caldeirão Verde.
Not only a beach but a starting point for trails that go along the coastline, offering beautiful sea views and local flora.
A scenic trail connecting Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, known for its dramatic landscapes and panoramic views of the island.
Aiports
How to reach Machico by plane.
Located approximately 9 miles (15 kilometers) from Machico, Madeira Airport is the main international airport serving the Madeira archipelago.
Approximately 526 miles (847 kilometers) from Machico, Lisbon Portela Airport is the largest airport in Portugal, serving as a major international gateway.
Faro Airport is about 826 miles (1,330 kilometers) from Machico and serves as a key access point to the Algarve region in southern Portugal.
Located around 466 miles (750 kilometers) from Machico, Gran Canaria Airport is the largest airport in the Canary Islands, making it a significant international hub.
Situated approximately 497 miles (800 kilometers) from Machico, Tenerife South Airport serves various international flights and is a popular destination for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group consisting of native Portuguese individuals, who contribute to the rich cultural heritage of Machico.
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries, enhancing the multicultural environment of the region.
A significant portion of the population, often retired individuals who have lived in Machico for many years.
Comprising university students and young professionals, this group often represents new ideas and growth within the community.
This demographic includes school-age children and teenagers, playing a crucial role in the future of the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Machico, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following.
Due to its coastal location, Machico is known for its surfing spots, attracting both locals and tourists.
Athletics is widely practiced in Machico, with various running events and competitions held throughout the year.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Machico, with scenic routes along the coast and inland.
Beach volleyball is popular in Machico, especially during the warmer months when locals and tourists enjoy the sandy beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Machico.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Machico offer vegetarian and vegan options, with dishes featuring fresh vegetables, locally sourced cheeses, and plant-based ingredients, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Several establishments in Machico are attentive to gluten-free requirements, offering dishes prepared with gluten-free grains, seafood, and locally sourced produce to accommodate gluten intolerances.