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 plans
Spend a day exploring around
Relaxing Beach Day
morning
: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.
afternoon
:Have lunch at a beachfront café serving fresh seafood. After eating, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, soaking in the gorgeous views.
evening
:Watch the sunset from the beach, capturing the perfect Instagram moment. Treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Madeiran dishes.
Nature Hike Adventure
morning
: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.
afternoon
: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.
evening
: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.
Highlights
Good
- 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.
Bad
- 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.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking
Explore the beautiful landscape and coastline through various hiking trails around Machico, such as the Levada do Caniçal and Ponta de São Lourenço.
Beach activities
Enjoy water sports, swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball at the popular Machico Beach.
Cycling
Take a bike ride along the coast or through the countryside to enjoy the scenic views and fresh air.
Whale and dolphin watching
Embark on a boat tour from Machico to observe the marine life, including whales and dolphins, in their natural habitat.
Golfing
Relax and enjoy a game of golf at the Santo da Serra Golf Club, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Machico with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Pico do Facho
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
Sao Roque viewpoint provides a breathtaking view over Machico and its bay, offering fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Largo da Praça
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.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Espetada
A skewer of marinated beef, grilled to perfection and typically served with salad and fried maize.
Must-Try!
Bolo do Caco
A round, soft bread made with sweet potato, often served with garlic butter and as an accompaniment to main dishes.
Lapas
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
Mercado dos Lavradores
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.
Machico Farmers' Market
Operates on weekends, offering an assortment of fresh fruits, vegetables, and locally made products, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local food culture.
Street Food Stalls along Machico Promenade
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
Greetings
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.
Punctuality
Being punctual is highly valued in Portuguese culture, so it's respectful to arrive on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments in Machico.
Table Manners
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 & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
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.
Payment
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.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Machico.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Best time to visit Machico, Portugal. Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
Summer
Another great time to visit Machico, Portugal. Expect warm weather and lively outdoor activities.
Fall
Good time to visit Machico, Portugal. Expect cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage.
Winter
Machico, Portugal can still be visited in winter. Expect cooler temperatures and potential rain.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Levada dos 25 Fontes
A popular hiking trail in the Madeira region, this Levada walk takes you through lush forests and along streams, leading to stunning waterfalls.
Pico do Arieiro
The second highest peak in Madeira, offering breathtaking views and a challenging hike with diverse landscapes, connecting to Pico Ruivo.
Levada do Caldeirão Verde
This hike offers scenic views of waterfalls and spectacular vegetation, following a canal that leads to the picturesque Caldeirão Verde.
Praia da Ribeira Brava
Not only a beach but a starting point for trails that go along the coastline, offering beautiful sea views and local flora.
Vereda do Areeiro
A scenic trail connecting Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, known for its dramatic landscapes and panoramic views of the island.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Machico through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Machico by plane.
Madeira Airport (FNC)
Located approximately 9 miles (15 kilometers) from Machico, Madeira Airport is the main international airport serving the Madeira archipelago.
Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)
Approximately 526 miles (847 kilometers) from Machico, Lisbon Portela Airport is the largest airport in Portugal, serving as a major international gateway.
Faro Airport (FAO)
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.
Gran Canaria Airport (LPA)
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.
Tenerife South Airport (TFS)
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.
Portuguese Nationals
The majority demographic group consisting of native Portuguese individuals, who contribute to the rich cultural heritage of Machico.
Foreign Residents
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries, enhancing the multicultural environment of the region.
Elderly Population
A significant portion of the population, often retired individuals who have lived in Machico for many years.
Young Adults
Comprising university students and young professionals, this group often represents new ideas and growth within the community.
Children and Adolescents
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
Football is the most popular sport in Machico, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following.
Surfing
Due to its coastal location, Machico is known for its surfing spots, attracting both locals and tourists.
Athletics
Athletics is widely practiced in Machico, with various running events and competitions held throughout the year.
Cycling
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Machico, with scenic routes along the coast and inland.
Volleyball
Beach volleyball is popular in Machico, especially during the warmer months when locals and tourists enjoy the sandy beaches.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
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.
Gluten-Free Options
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.