Madeira Island is a Portuguese unsung destination, especially when compared to world destinations such as the Canary Islands, the Greek Isles and the Azores.
However, it is becoming increasingly popular for its dramatic cliffs, black sand beaches, unique levada hikes and beautiful floral gardens. Also, did you know it is the birthplace of Cristiano Ronaldo?
Funchal, the capital, is well-known for its beautiful port and famous Madeira wine. Hiking trails across the Laurisilva forest provide beautiful vistas and biodiversity.
Furthermore, its botanical gardens are widely described as among the world’s most beautiful, and the beauty of its fishing village, Câmara de Lobos, influenced even Winston Churchill.
While it is growing in popularity, Madeira still feels like a lesser-known paradise. So, let’s explore Madeira and see whether it could be your next vacation spot.
But First, Let’s Cover the Most Common Questions
How Many Days in Madeira Is Enough?
I would say that 5 days in Madeira is good and that 7 days is very good. Expanding to 7-10 days, you can explore the capital, Funchal, visit a charming village, hike, swim and still have a day free to relax.
Do You Need a Car on Madeira Island?
If you prefer not to drive, Funchal has good public transportation, or you can join guided tours. But I recommend renting a car because the wonderful beaches are sometimes only 20 minutes apart by car.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Madeira?
It depends on your priorities. Madeira has pleasant winter sun with daytime temperatures of around 20°C (December to February).
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful season that highlights the island’s lush blooms.
Summer (June to September) can reach 33°C, while fall brings quieter, sunny days about 22°C, nice for walking and swimming despite more rainfall.
Is It Expensive in Madeira?
I would classify Madeira as a medium-budget location.
What Is the Official Language of Madeira?
The official language of Madeira, which is an autonomous territory of Portugal, is Portuguese. However, many locals speak English, especially in the tourist areas.
Top Things to Do in Madeira
Now let’s dive into the array of things to do in this lovely, peaceful region of Portugal.
Pico Ruivo and More: Explore Hiking Trails and Levadas
If you’re a hiker, Madeira has plenty of possibilities. The island is famous for its levadas. By the way, levadas are Madeira-specific irrigation channels that transfer water from the island’s rainy northern slopes to the drier southern parts.
These levadas have created wonderful hiking trails that wind through lush landscapes. I recommend the Levada Walk to 25 Fontes. It takes you through a lush forest to a stunning waterfall.
If you are a pro-level hiker, consider Pico Ruivo. It is the island’s highest peak at 1,862 meters (6,109 feet). On clear days, you can see the Atlantic Ocean sparkling in the distance, while clouds often float around its peaks.
Pico Ruivo can be challenging, but if you find it easy, there are options to connect it to other routes. Consider the one from Pico do Arieiro (informally Areeiro). It will increase both the difficulty and the distance.
Don’t miss the Fanal Forest while traveling to Pico Ruivo. It is known for its beautiful laurel trees, which are relics of the old forests that originally covered much of Madeira.
There are numerous options, and you will enjoy them all, whether it’s the peaceful Vereda pathways or the exhilarating hikes to Risco.
Visit Funchal: Capital City of Madeira
Would you know Madeira’s capital city? It’s called Funchal. And it reminds me of our Croatian coastal cities. Here you can stroll through the Old Town and admire cobblestone streets adorned with colorful murals and charming shops.
Madeira is also known for its fruit, as its unique climate and volcanic soil contribute to its richness. If you want to try it, I recommend the Mercado dos Lavradores.
If you need a peaceful escape, Madeira’s botanical gardens are said to be among the best in the world. So, head to the Madeira Botanical Garden. It has about 2,000 types of plants and offers a view of Funchal, the Atlantic Ocean and the mountain range.
Just a cable car ride away is the beautiful, quiet oasis called Monte Palace Tropical Garden. And, last but not least, unwind at one of Funchal’s cafés, sipping a poncha while watching the boats bob in the harbor. You gotta love Madeira!
Stroll in Câmara de Lobos
After exploring Funchal, visit Câmara de Lobos. Is it enough to say that it impressed Winston Churchill so much that he painted numerous scenes from this village during his visit?
Anyway, Câmara de Lobos is a fishing village known for its coastal views and colorful boats. After strolling, adventurous souls can explore hiking trails, such as Vereda do Ponta de São Lourenço or Cabo Girão. If you’re not up for adventure, you can enjoy a meal at a seafood restaurant that serves local specialties.
Sample Madeira Cuisine and Enjoy Madeira Wine
Have you ever considered pairing fish with sweet bananas as a regular meal? Well, welcome to Madeira. Madeiran cuisine combines fresh fish, local meats and tropical fruits. Their creative food is bursting with flavor, just like the savory black scabbard fish and sweet banana. It is called Espada.
I know that fish pairs nicely with wine, so try Madeira wine. It is famous for its unusual aging process, which involves heating the wine and exposing it to air, resulting in a rich flavor and exceptional longevity. Malmsey (sweet and rich) or Sercial (dry and crisp) are my recommendations. Or both.
If wine isn’t your thing, try poncha. It is a refreshing local drink made from sugar cane, honey and lemon. In a neighborhood tavern, one glass will cost between $3 and $5.
Madeira’s history is also rich in sugar cane production. In the Calheta Sugar Cane Factory, you can learn about the process and enjoy tastings.
Last but not least, try bolo do caco. It is a sweet potato bread that is generally served warm with garlic butter. Does anyone think this doesn’t sound good? It’s my favorite.
Cabo Girão & More: Enjoy Scenic Views
If you’ve always wanted to see what the view from one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs looks like, visit Cabo Girão. There is also a skywalk that extends over the edge. It offers a beautiful view of the dramatic cliffs plunging into the Atlantic Ocean below. For that step into the sky, you will pay about $2.
If that isn’t enough, I have more. The Achadas viewpoint is just a short hike away. The short climb to Balcões is also worthwhile. You’ll appreciate its cascading waterfalls and magnificent rocks. I believe this one is ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Relax at Porto Moniz Natural Pools
When you’re tired of exploring, unwind in the natural swimming pools with beautiful views. The Porto Moniz Pools are formed by volcanic rock. Two natural pools are near each other: the first is free, while the second costs roughly $3 but has more amenities.
The pools are open all year round between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the winter and 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. during the summer.
You can soak in mineral-rich water in a natural swimming pool while enjoying views of the Atlantic Ocean, cliffs, black lava rock formations and lush vegetation. That sounds like meditation to me.
Enjoy the Scenic Black Sand Beach Seixal
Madeira’s coastline is a mix of rugged beauty and relaxed charm. Don’t miss its black-sand beaches. I recommend Seixal, which is unique and surrounded by towering cliffs.
However, if you want golden sand, I recommend Praia in Machico. It’s the ideal way to recharge for your next Madeira adventure.
Experience the Thrill of Tobogganing
Madeira, Portugal, is a playground for thrill-seekers. So, have fun sliding down the streets of Funchal on a traditional toboggan. It is a fun ride that begins in the Monte area. The descent typically takes 10-15 minutes, covering a distance of around 2 kilometers.
Maybe you’re laughing now because I wrote it’s thrilling, but when you glide down the narrow, winding streets, the toboggan can reach speeds of up to 35 km/h (about 18 mph). The price is 30-40 dollars for two people, and it’s a good idea to bring cash with you, just in case.
Book Adventure Activities, Such as Snorkeling
After gliding down on a toboggan, you might be looking for more exciting activities. So here are my suggestions. Consider joining some of the dolphin and whale watching tours. You can spot playful dolphins jumping alongside your boat, as well as beautiful whales in their natural environment.
If you’re into sports, I recommend snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. It shows a vibrant world of marine life, ranging from colorful fish to intriguing rock structures. Finish your adventure with a relaxing catamaran cruise.
You can relax in the sun, enjoy coastline views and perhaps catch a glimpse of the dolphins swimming near you. One of the popular options is the Santa Maria de Colombo boat tour, featuring a replica of Christopher Columbus’s flagship, the Santa Maria. Prices are around $40.
Have a Nice Day Trip to Porto Santo
Madeira is beautiful, but if you want more, consider taking a day tour to Porto Santo. It is a separate island from Madeira, but it’s part of the Madeira archipelago. Many tours depart from Funchal, and this scenic ferry ride lasts about 2.5 hours.
Porto Santo is known for its sandy beaches, especially the 9-kilometer stretch at Praia de Porto Santo. Once you arrive, you can soak up the sun, explore the charming village, or simply indulge in bolo do caco.
Enjoy the Christmas Season in Madeira
For me, the best time to visit Madeira is during the summer. But Madeira is beautiful all year round and it shines brightly during the Christmas season.
Madeira transforms into a festive wonderland at Christmastime, especially in Funchal. The Christmas Market showcases local crafts and delicious foods, while the city center’s large Christmas tree and Christmas performances draw visitors.
I would say that New Year’s Eve is the pinnacle of the holiday season. Madeira is famous for its beautiful fireworks over the harbor, which are recognized as among the best in the world. It’s probably too early to ask if you have plans for the next New Year’s celebration, but if you don’t, maybe Madeira is a good idea.
Keep in mind that average temperatures in December typically range between 15°C (59°F) at night and 20°C (68°F) during the day.
Explore Charming Santana
Santana is a charming and unique village famous for its traditional A-frame houses decorated with vibrant colors and thatched roofs. It also provides an insight into the island’s rich agricultural past, with environments that grow native delicacies such as bananas.
If you want to learn about Madeiran culture through interactive exhibits and traditional crafts, visit Santana’s Madeira Theme Park.
If you need more, the Laurisilva forest is just outside of Santana. The Levada do Caldeirão Verde is one of the hiking trails available in this historic laurel woodland. It leads to beautiful waterfalls. It is approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) round trip and often takes 4 to 5 hours to complete.
Visit São Vicente
São Vicente is a lovely village with stunning cliffs and green mountains. You can visit the magnificent Igreja de São Vicente or take scenic levada walks.
I would also like to recommend visiting São Vicente Caves, but they have been closed for security reasons for several years. I’ve seen that many people realize this after they’ve arrived at the cave, so keep that in mind.
By the way, this geological wonder was created by volcanic action more than 890,000 years ago. Could you imagine?
Enjoy the Sunset in Ponta do Sol
Ponta do Sol is Madeira’s sunniest town, located on the island’s south coast. It is also one of the best places to watch a beautiful sunset, with the sky turning orange, red and pink as it reflects off the Atlantic Ocean.
The coastal cliffs frame the view, while the waves lap gently at the shore. You will witness locals and guests gathered along the promenade, sharing laughter and stories, and you will smell seawater and bougainvillea in the air.
If this sounds poetic, that’s because it should.
Take a Selfie with Cristiano Ronaldo
I find it hard to believe that anyone reading this has not heard of Cristiano Ronaldo. But did you know he was born in Funchal? He frequently talks about growing up on Madeira, where he discovered his love of football in the local streets.
If you want to learn more, go to the Museu CR7, which is dedicated to his career. The ticket is only 5 euros and there is a statue of Cristiano Ronaldo near the museum, so you can take a selfie with him.
Also, to honor his legacy, Madeira installed a statue of him at the airport, which was renamed Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport. Interestingly, this statue in the airport received mixed reviews for its artistic quality. So, one year later, it was replaced by another.
Of course, Cristiano Ronaldo occasionally visits Madeira, so who knows, maybe you’ll meet him and get a selfie with the real Cristiano Ronaldo, not just the statue.
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