Things To Do
in Madeira
Madeira is an archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, known for its stunning landscapes, lush vegetation, and mild climate. The largest island, also named Madeira, features dramatic cliffs, volcanic mountains, and botanical gardens filled with diverse flora. The region is famous for its wine production, particularly the renowned Madeira wine, which has a rich history and unique flavor profile.
Outdoor activities such as hiking the levadas (irrigation channels), whale watching, and exploring quaint villages highlight the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- "olá" - hello
- "obrigado" - thank you
- "por favor" - please
- "desculpe" - excuse me/sorry
- "até logo" - see you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mercado dos Lavradores to taste local fruits and pastries. Stroll through the charming streets of Funchal, enjoying the vibrant ambiance.
Head to the Monte Palace Gardens for lush views and stunning landscapes. Don’t forget to take the traditional toboggan ride back down to Funchal.
Relax at a local restaurant and savor some traditional Madeiran dishes, such as espetada. Take a leisurely walk along the harbor to enjoy the sunset.
Embark on a guided levada walk in the enchanting Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the fresh air and scenic beauty while watching for local wildlife.
Pause for a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by stunning waterfalls and terraced mountains. Continue exploring more of these ancient irrigation channels.
Return to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest. You might want to visit a local bar to enjoy a glass of Madeira wine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with dramatic landscapes and lush greenery
- Mild climate year-round, making it a great destination for outdoor activities
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous festivals and traditions
- Delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and unique wines
- Welcoming and hospitable locals
- Great hiking opportunities, including the famous Levadas trails
- Low crime rate and generally safe for tourists
- Isolated location may result in higher travel costs
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Some areas can be quite hilly, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues
- Tourism can lead to crowded attractions during peak seasons
- Limited nightlife options compared to mainland Portugal cities like Lisbon or Porto
- Cost of living can be higher than in mainland regions
- Healthcare facilities may not be as comprehensive as in larger urban areas
Best Activities in Madeira
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore Madeira’s famous Levadas, an extensive network of irrigation channels that offer stunning hiking trails through lush landscapes, waterfalls, and panoramic views.
Experience the adrenaline of canyoning in Madeira's natural canyons. This activity involves rappelling down waterfalls and navigating through streams and rocks.
Soar high above the island’s breathtaking scenery with a paragliding adventure. Enjoy spectacular views of the coast, mountains, and valleys from the sky.
Take a boat tour to spot various species of dolphins and whales found in the waters surrounding Madeira. This is a fantastic way to appreciate the local marine life.
Catch some waves on Madeira's coastline. With various surf spots available, both beginners and experienced surfers can enjoy the Atlantic waters.
Discover the underwater world of Madeira through scuba diving. Explore marine reserves, underwater caves, and vibrant coral reefs.
Visit the protected areas and natural parks of Madeira to observe diverse bird species, including endemic birds unique to the island.
Explore the rugged terrain of Madeira on a mountain bike. There are numerous trails suitable for all skill levels, offering a thrilling way to see the island.
Tours
Uncover the best of Madeira with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Madeira
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, Cabo Girão offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes. The glass skywalk provides a unique perspective for photographers.
This scenic peninsula features dramatic cliffs and stunning coastal views. The diverse landscapes and unique rock formations make it an ideal location for photography.
Located in the eastern part of Madeira, this viewpoint provides spectacular views of the rugged coast and lush mountains, perfect for capturing the island’s natural beauty.
This hiking trail leads to breathtaking waterfalls and lush vegetation, offering numerous opportunities for stunning nature photography along the levada paths.
A picturesque valley that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the lush green landscape, perfect for capturing the essence of Madeira’s natural beauty.
These beautifully landscaped gardens provide a variety of colorful flowers, ponds, and statues, along with fantastic views of Funchal, making it a great place for photography.
This ancient forest features gnarled trees and mystical fog, creating an enchanting atmosphere that makes for striking photographs, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
The highest peak in Madeira offers sweeping views of the island and the ocean, rewarding those who make the hike to the top with breathtaking photo opportunities.
This charming fishing village is known for its colorful boats and stunning coastal views, making it an ideal spot for capturing the local culture and stunning landscapes.
These natural volcanic pools provide a unique setting for photography, especially during sunset when the rocks and water create a dramatic landscape.
Food in Madeira
Madeira Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish of skewered and grilled beef, typically seasoned with garlic, bay leaves, and salt, served with a side of milho fritto (fried cornmeal) and salad. A must-try is at Restaurante do Forte in Funchal.
Must-Try!
A type of round bread made from wheat flour and sweet potato, often served warm with garlic butter. It's perfect for snacking and can be found at Mercado dos Lavradores.
This unique dish features black scabbard fish served alongside ripe bananas. It is both savory and sweet, reflecting Madeira's culinary creativity. Try it at Restaurante A Parreira.
A traditional Madeiran drink made from distilled sugar cane juice, lemon juice, and honey. Sample the best Poncha at the local Poncha bars, especially in Câmara de Lobos.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Madeira better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market in Funchal where visitors can explore fresh produce, fish, and local delicacies. It's a great place to taste local cheeses, fruits, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Throughout Madeira, particularly in Funchal, various street food stalls offer quick bites like Bolo do Caco and local pastries. Look for stalls during local festivals for the best experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Madeira, it is customary to greet with a handshake accompanied by a friendly smile. Close friends may exchange kisses on both cheeks.
When dining in Madeira, wait for the host to start the meal before beginning to eat. It is polite to try a little of everything offered and to express gratitude for the meal.
In Madeira, particularly in more formal settings, smart casual attire is appreciated. While casual wear is acceptable in tourist areas, it's good to be more presentable in restaurants and shops.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Madeira with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Madeira
Ensure a smooth experience
In Madeira, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a tip of around 5-10% for excellent service in restaurants, cafes, and bars. In casual settings, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is also acceptable. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip for good service is customary.
Payment methods in Madeira are diverse, with both cash and card widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are commonly used in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns or markets, where card payments might not be accepted. ATMs are readily available throughout the island for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Madeira.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Madeira. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). You can expect beautiful blooming flowers and lush landscapes, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the island's natural beauty.
Summer (June to August) is warm and dry, with temperatures averaging between 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F). This is the peak tourist season, so you can expect crowded attractions but plenty of outdoor activities, including swimming and sunbathing on the beaches.
Autumn (September to November) is another excellent time to visit Madeira, especially in September and October when the weather remains warm, with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F). The crowds begin to thin out, and you can enjoy the vineyards and local harvest festivals.
Winter (December to February) in Madeira is mild compared to many other European destinations, with temperatures averaging around 13°C to 19°C (55°F to 66°F). While it may be wetter, this is a great time for those seeking tranquility and to experience the island’s festive Christmas celebrations.
Madeira at Night
Hiking in Madeira
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Madeira, offering stunning views and a challenging hike through diverse landscapes.
A popular levada walk that takes you through lush forests to a series of beautiful waterfalls, with a moderate difficulty.
A scenic trail connecting the island's two highest peaks, Areeiro and Ruivo, providing breathtaking panoramic views.
A peaceful hike that follows an irrigation channel through lush greenery and tunnels, leading to a stunning waterfall.
An accessible hike that offers spectacular views of the island’s mountain range and is known for its sunrise experiences.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Madeira through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Madeira by plane.
The main airport serving Madeira, located in Santa Cruz, about 13 km from Funchal.
The main international airport in Portugal located in Lisbon, approximately 970 km from Madeira.
Located in Porto, it is about 1,000 km from Madeira and serves as a hub for international flights.
Located in the Algarve region, approximately 1,200 km from Madeira, it serves international destinations primarily in Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group in Madeira, predominantly of Portuguese descent.
A significant number of residents who have moved to Madeira from other regions of Portugal.
A notable community of British nationals, especially retirees, living in Madeira.
Includes residents from various European countries, such as Germans, French, and Italians.
A smaller demographic group consisting of individuals of Cape Verdean descent.
This includes people from diverse geographical backgrounds, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Madeira.
The Soul of Madeira
Discover the essence of Madeira through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Madeira, with several local clubs and a strong following among fans. The region is famously known for producing football talent, including Cristiano Ronaldo.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity in Madeira, with local competitions and clubs participating in national leagues.
Athletics is widely practiced in Madeira, with various events and races held throughout the year, thanks to the region's suitable climate and landscapes.
Given its coastline and surf-friendly conditions, Madeira is becoming a popular destination for surfing enthusiasts.
Cycling, both road and mountain biking, is favored by locals and tourists due to Madeira's varied terrain and scenic routes.
Rugby has seen growth in popularity in Madeira, with local clubs competing in regional leagues.
Sailing is a popular activity in Madeira, owing to its favorable wind conditions and beautiful coastal scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Madeira.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Madeira offers various vegetarian dishes, including vegetable stews and salads. Restaurants like O Portão provide specific vegetarian menus on request.
While traditional Madeiran cuisine features many meat dishes, some restaurants cater to vegans with fresh vegetable dishes, salads, and fruits. Always check with the staff about menu alterations.
Gluten-free options can be limited, but many dishes like grilled fish and vegetable sides are naturally gluten-free. It's advisable to inquire at restaurants about gluten-free preparations.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Madeira with these cultural adventures.
