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If you’re looking for a destination that has year-round good weather, Madeira should be on your radar. But it’s not just the weather that makes Madeira worth a visit. There are so many things to do in Madeira, that it has something for everyone. I fell in love the minute I set foot on the island and I hope you do too.
What makes Madeira stand out is its diversity. One minute you’re standing at the beach and the next you’re on top of a mountain or going down one of the many Levadas.
Some people call Madeira the Hawaii of Europe, and if you take a look at the scenery, you’ll understand why. The luscious mountains, and the tropical plants all over the island in combination with the beaches gives it a tropical vibe, while still being in Europe. And since it’s only a two-hour flight from Lisbon, it’s perfect for a quick getaway.
Most people start their travels in Funchal, but don’t succumb to the temptation to whittle away your time on the island there. The only way to understand what Madeira is all about is to get in a car or a bus and drive around the island with your eyes wide open. With its endless tunnels and roundabouts, you’ll be on the other side of the island before you know it. There is something magical about entering a long tunnel and exiting in a completely different world.
With so many things to do in Madeira, you should take your time. It’s the only way to let Madeira embrace you and show her true self. And if you’re up for it, hop over to Porto Santo for some well-deserved rest.
When to visit Madeira
Madeira has a mild climate, with temperatures on average not dropping below 16 °C in winter. This makes it a perfect winter getaway. November – February are perfect for those looking for some peace and quiet. With less crowds it’s easier to get around and enjoy all that Madeira has to offer. The water will be a bit chilly, but there will be plenty of sunshine.
In June – October you’ll get the most sun and this period is perfect for sunbathers and those looking for a tropical holiday. Temperatures rise to 25°C and it’s the perfect time to dive into the natural pools or the ocean. It’s Madeira’s peak season, so expect a lot of activities and a lively atmosphere. This is the perfect time to go whale or dolphin watching.
To experience Madeira in its full glory, visit one of the many festivals. Whether it’s the Carnaval is February, the Flower Festival in May or the Christmas festivities in December, it will be a celebration you’ll remember.
How to get to Madeira
The easiest way to get to Madeira is to hop on a plane. Madeira is well-connected to many destinations in Europe, although some flight require a layover in Lisbon or Porto. The airport is located in Santa Cruz and is known for its short runway and heavy winds.
You will see a lot of cruise ships entering port in Funchal. Most cruise ships stay only for the day, and give people a chance to explore the island. There are no ferry services to Madeira, but you could hop on a ferry to explore Porto Santo.
Top things to do in Madeira
1. Hike from Pico do Areeiro to Pico do Ruivo (PR1)
One of the most scenic hikes of Madeira is the Pico do Areeiro to Pico do Ruivo hike. The hike is about ten kilometers and takes you from the third-highest peak to the highest peak of the island. Depending on your fitness level, it will take you about 4-5 hours, but in exchange for that effort, I am promising you truly unparalleled views.
Start early and watch the sunrise from Pico do Areeiro before starting your hike. You’ll be amazed by the incredible views, the rugged terrain and the beautiful scenery. On clear days, you’ll even hike above the clouds (read: if it’s a clear day, change your plans and get to Pico do Areeiro). You’ll walk among beautiful plants and flowers, through tunnels, and climb stairs to get to your destination.
You can hike back to Pico do Areeiro once you reach Pico do Ruivo or arrange transport back to your starting point. The best way to have a worry-free hike is by booking a tour that drops you off at Pico do Areeiro and picks you up at Pico do Ruivo.
2. Go for a Levada walk
Madeira has a lot of Levadas all over the island. These Levadas distribute water from rainy areas to plantations or other areas that don’t get a lot of water. There are a lot of trails that follow these Levadas and give you a chance to enjoy a different kind of scenery. These walks take you to luscious green areas that make you think you’re in a rainforest. Do keep in mind that on days the weather is bad, some of these trails become dangerous. The Levadas overflow and the trail disappears.
It’ll be pretty clear when you arrive that the Levada is dangerous, but you don’t want to wait until you get there. If it’s not clear from the weather, ask the staff at your accommodation for their opinion.
You’ll find the Levada walks all over the island in different lengths and difficulty which means there is a Levada for everyone to enjoy.
The most popular Levada walk is Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6). There are two different versions of this hike. PR 6 takes you to the 25 springs and PR 6.1 takes you to the Risco waterfall. If you combine both, it will take about 4 hours to complete the Levada walk.
But my favorite Levada walk is the Levada dos Cedros (PR 14). This walk takes you through a lush green forest and ends at the waterfall. You could combine this hike with a visit to Fanal forest or return the same way. It will take you about 3-4 hours if you decide to hike back and forth.
3. Hop in one of the many cable cars
Madeira has built a cable car network that reaches areas that are otherwise hard to reach. With the high difference between certain areas, it’s the easiest (and most fun) way of transportation. The most famous cable car starts in Funchal and takes you to Monte and the Botanical Garden. But there are a lot of other routes that take you down to the beach. Some of them run quite steep and make you feel like you’re disappearing into the void.
Miradouro do Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz is the steepest cable car with a slope of 98%. The ride only lasts 5 minutes and drops you off at the beach, where you could roam around for some time before returning to the top. And don’t forget to visit Téléphérique de Garajau, near the Christ statue of Ponta do Garajau. It only has two cars, so you might need to wait a bit if it’s a busy day. But this was my favorite cable car experience on Madeira and definitely worth the wait.
You don’t need to be in a cable car to enjoy them. While you’re in Funchal, you’ll notice cable cars passing above your head from time to time, or you could just visit the departure station and enjoy the view from there. Make sure to check the opening times because some of them close for lunch and you’ll be stuck down at the beach. And they take lunchtime seriously in Madeira.
4. Swim in the natural pools
If you’re not really a beach person but like to swim, a visit to one of the natural pools is in order. You’ll find them on both sides of the island. These pools are formed by volcanic rocks through eruptions and erosion. There is something about the black rocks sticking out from the water and creating serene pools that create the perfect space to enjoy the ocean without the tides or waves crashing in.
On days where the ocean gets rough, the pools close. But those are the perfect days to visit them and watch the enormous force of the water. The waves crash into the black rocks and splash up so high; you might get soaked just watching them from above.
5. Try the local food
Although Madeira is a Portuguese Island, it has its own cuisine and own specialties that isn’t quite the same as the Portuguese mainland. You’ll find the local cuisine in restaurants around the island and in the local markets as well. From tropical fruits with all sorts of flavors and textures you’ve never tried to delicious meat dishes that leave you in awe when they are served.
Try a bolo de caco for lunch, enjoy a poncho in the afternoon and treat yourself to an espetada da Madeira for dinner. Usually, the local options are better for your wallet as well, because everything else has to be imported. So forget about your Coca Cola, try Brisa instead.
If you want to combine local food with amazing views over the Valley of the Nuns, check out Santana in Nature – Restaurant & Grill. This is one of the best meals I’ve eaten on Madeira: sitting outside, enjoying the view and the juicy meat on a skewer. And if you’re not ready for dinner yet, but feel a bit peckish, Porto de Abrigo let’s you try out the local tapas in combination with a local wine or poncho.
6. Visit Monte and enjoy a Toboggan ride
In the old days, people would use toboggan sleds as a means of rapid transportation between Monte and Funchal. Nowadays it’s a tourist attraction that has become quite popular. The lines can get pretty long, so go early if you want to participate. But it’s also fun to watch people get pushed off and see the sled glide down the road.
And if you’re up there you might as well enjoy the town itself. There is a botanical garden that is worth a visit, some cathedrals but most of all beautiful views of Funchal and Madeira. The temperature is also a bit cooler because it’s higher up the mountain. From Monte you could take another cable car that will take you to the other botanical garden.
7. Explore Funchal and all it has to offer
One of the most unique things to do in Madeira is walking around Funchal and discovering the painted doors you’ll find throughout the old part of town. In order to improve this part of town, people were encouraged to paint their front doors. All kinds of artists have participated and not one door is alike. While walking through this part of town, you’ll also see the cable cars above your head and plenty of local restaurants and cafes to sit down and enjoy this area. I could not get enough of this area.
Another must-see sight in Funchal is the Cathedral of Funchal which is located in the city center. It’s a beautiful collaboration of golden decorations and bright white walls. And beyond that, the Mercado Dos Lavrados is also worth a visit – but don’t be tempted to buy something. You’ll pay top dollar and most products can be found elsewhere. It’s more a place that locals know for its vibe.
8. Watch a sunrise or sunset
There are plenty of places where you can enjoy a stunning sunrise or sunset. Try one of the many beaches or go to one of Miradouro (viewpoints). There is nothing better than seeing the colors of the sky change and taking a minute to appreciate it all. The beach in Seixal is a popular spot to watch the sun go down on the north side of the island. Christo Rei viewpoint is perfect if you prefer to stay on the south side of Madeira. Or watch the sun go down from one of the highest peaks on the island, Pico do Areeiro.
But even in Funchal itself, the sunset can be quite spectacular. The way the sun disappears behind the mountains and the lights of the city turn on like fireflies feels like a fairytale. There are also plenty of rooftop restaurants, a great way to enjoy a light meal of a drink while watching the sun go down. Witnessing this stunning sunset day after day is one of my favorite memories of Madeira!
9. Visit one of the Miradouro
The most famous viewpoint on Madeira is Cabo Girão. This 580-meter-high cliff offers a stunning view over the coastline of Madeira and has a glass skywalk. It’s impressive to see the steep cliff go all the way down into the ocean right below your feet.
You do have to pay an entrance fee for Cabo Girão which is well worth it, but if you’d rather enjoy the view without paying, just hop in a car and get out your Google Maps.
Along the winding roads through the mountains of Madeira, you’ll find plenty of places to stop and take a picture. Drive to Miradouro do Curtado on the east side of Madeira and be amazed by the gorgeous views of the Valley of the Nuns.
Some have official parking spaces, but don’t be surprised by cars that pull over at the side of the road or people walking on the side of the road to get to a viewpoint.
If you’re more of an active person there are a couple of hikes that will take you to a viewpoint as well. The best one I found was Miradouro da Garganta Funda. Go early, because parking is limited and you have to hike out quite a bit before enjoying the views.
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