30 best things to do in Madeira Island Portugal

1. Explore the capital Funchal

We start the journey in Funchal, as most travellers will stay here on the first night or plan all trips from the capital of Madeira. Many locals live in the city, which is the largest on the island. The old town is located close to the harbour, and you’ll discover the first sights in this area. Examples are Santa Catarina Park, Madeira Story Centre, Blandy’s Wine Lodge, and Sé Catedral do Funchal.

An easy way to get around is by Hop-on Hop-off bus in Funchal. Tickets are available from €18.00, are valid for 24 hours, and offer guides in nine languages. The Hop-on Hop-off 3 in 1 tour is another option. A ticket is valid for 48 hours, and along the route, you’ll discover the city centre, the nearby town Câmara de Lobos, and the Cabo Girão Skywalk.

If you like visiting markets, Mercado dos Lavradores will be heaven! Enjoy the colours, sweet exotic fruits and the hustle and bustle of the market. Other highlights in Funchal are Palácio de São Lourenço, Rua de Santa Maria, the Botanical Gardens of Madeira, and Quinta da Boa Vista. Check out the complete Funchal guide to explore all the sights in the capital.

2. Enjoy a Funchal cable car ride

There are some incredible sights near Funchal, and a fun way to reach them is by cable car. Take the Teleférico Funchal-Monte to visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. You can board the cable car on Rua Dom Carlos I near the water. You can book a round-trip ticket or take a toboggan ride down to Funchal again! More about this soon.

Another option is to take a cable car ride over the valley of João Gomes stream from the Madeira Botanical Gardens to Monte. This ride takes about 15 minutes, and they also provide single and return tickets. Regardless of your route, you’ll enjoy stunning views over Funchal Bay and the city. 

3. Visit Monte Palace Tropical Gardens

One of the best things to do in Madeira is to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. It’s located in Monte on top of a hill, and beside the cable car, it’s easily reached by bus or taxi. If you arrive by car, there is also a small car park nearby.

The garden is filled with art and unique plants, flowers, and trees from all over the world. Monte Palace Tropical Garden also has a small museum, and around the central lake, you can see the former Monte Palace Hotel. You’ll spot flamingos and even some swans near the lake.

A visit to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden will take 2 to 4 hours. Afterwards, you can visit the beautiful church of Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte before returning to Funchal.

5. Câmara de Lobos

Near Funchal, you can visit the coastal town of Câmara de Lobos. This colourful fishing village was a favourite of Winston Churchill, and there are some lovely sights to discover. Find the seal street art made by Bordalo II, or see the statue of Churchill in front of the Pestana Hotel.

We had a lovely lunch near the harbour at Restaurant Minerva. You´ll still see many fishing boats in the water, and it´s a super idyllic spot to visit on the south coast. You can reach Câmara de Lobos by bus, car and taxi, but you can also follow the beautiful Promenade de Câmara de Lobos from Funchal!

6. Cabo Girão Viewpoint

From Câmara de Lobos, you can head to the next sight: the Cabo Girão Skywalk. The Madeira Skywalk is perfect for thrill seekers who aren’t afraid of heights! You’ll enjoy a magical view from a viewpoint at 580 meters above sea level! It’s one of the highest cliffs in Europe, with stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean, Fajã do Rancho, and Fajã do Cabo Girão.

Admission is € 2,00 per person, and children under 12 can enjoy the skywalk for free.

7. See the Santana traditional houses

One of the most famous towns in Madeira is Santana. You’ll find this gem on the north coast of Madeira, and it’s well known for its A-frame-shaped houses. Some traditional houses are open to the public, and it’s a great spot to buy some souvenirs.

Besides the traditional homes, visiting Parque Temático da Madeira is also fun, where you discover what the typical houses look like from the inside. You’ll also learn more about traditional Madeiran handcrafts, and there are workshops all year round. 

8. Dip into the natural swimming pools in Madeira

Porto Moniz is a lovely coastal town on the northwestern shores of Madeira. The place is mainly known for its natural swimming pools, and you can visit the Piscinas Naturais next to the Madeira Aquarium and near Hotel Aqua Natura Madeira. The water was pretty cold but very refreshing!

People get changed next to the pool, so bring towels and dry clothes. There is also a small cafe with bathrooms. The volcanic rocks can be pretty sharp, too, and entering the water was challenging in some places. If you have water shoes, they come in handy. There are more natural pools in Seixal, and all pools are free to enter.

10. Miradouro dos Ilhéus da Ribeira da Janela

Stay a little longer near Seixal and Porto Moniz, as it’s worth stopping at Miradouro da Eira da Achada. From here, you have a stunning view over the north coast. Keep following the windy road down, and stop at Miradouro Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela. 

From the rocky beach, you’ll see some rock formations in the water, and you can see how the water is crashing on the rugged coastline of Madeira. There is also a staircase to a viewpoint that goes into the cliffs. The three rocks you’ll see are Ilheu Zinho (the smallest), Ilhéu Alto (the largest) and Ilhéu da Rama.

11. Embark on a levada walk in Madeira

Madeira is known for its extensive network of levada walks. These levadas are irrigation channels that crisscross the landscape, offering scenic hiking routes with panoramic views of the valleys, waterfalls, and terraced hillsides. Some famous hikes are Levada das 25 Fontes, Levada dos Balcões, and Levada do Calderão Verde.

Organised hiking tours are available in Madeira, which is great if you have little hiking experience and want to learn more about the incredible scenery during the levada walk. Transport is also included, so you won’t have to drive to the starting points. Most trails are easy to follow with the help of the WalkMe Madeira App and the AllTrails App. There are some very easy hikes on the island, but some are more challenging.

12. Conquer the Pico Ruivo

For an exhilarating and challenging hike, climbing the summit of the Pico Ruivo is perfect! The Pico Ruivo is Madeira’s highest peak, which is 1.862 meters tall. The perfect mountain to climb! There are two ways to get to the top. The PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo hike is the easiest. You’ll start from the car park at Achada do Teixeira and follow a 2.8-kilometre trail (1.74 miles) to the top. You’ll need about two hours to complete a return journey.

The other route is the more advantageous PR 1 Vereda do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail. The course is 7.5 kilometres (4.7 miles) long and takes 4 to 5 hours to complete. There are several tunnels and high drops, but with an organised tour, you’ll surely master this hike!

It’s one of the most popular hikes on the island, and the views from the top are magical, especially during sunrise and sunset! If you decide to hike this trail yourself, you can also arrange transport between the start and finish points. This way, you won’t have to hike back!

13. Anjos waterfall

On the island’s southern coast, you can visit the Anjos waterfall. It’s a stream of water that lands on the ER101 road and onwards into the sea. The ER101 is located between Ponta do Sol and Madalena to Mar on the island’s south side. The road is no longer the main road and is often closed due to rockfalls.

I saw many images online, and it’s a pretty cool spot to visit. The only downside is that many people want to stand under or drive through the waterfall for pictures, causing a traffic jam on the road! I would suggest coming early to avoid line lines and respect road closures, as it can be dangerous.

14. Miradouro da Garganta Funda

One of the tallest waterfalls in Madeira is at Miradouro da Garganta Funda, also known as Miradouro da Vaca. Sometimes, the waterfall has run dry, but the views at this point are stunning nonetheless. The Garganta Funda Waterfall drops 140 meters down and can be seen after a short walk. Follow signs to Miradouro da Garganta Funda when you are close to Ponta do Pargo at the island’s western point.

15. Whale and dolphin-watching tours in Madeira

From the harbour in Funchal, there is a wide selection of whale and dolphin-watching tours available. It’s an amazing way to see the majestic marine creatures in their natural habitat, and you can spot various whale and dolphin species along the coast. You may spot a Bottlenose Dolphin, Short-beaked Common Dolphin or Sperm Whale on your trip!

Responsible whale and dolphin watching is a priority in Madeira to ensure the well-being of the animals and the preservation of their natural environment. Tour operators follow guidelines to minimise disturbances and avoid altering animal behaviour. The use of eco-friendly boats and adherence to strict codes of conduct are common practices among all reputable operators. We booked a trip on the ecological catamaran!

16. Try the traditional poncha

Poncha is a traditional drink of Madeira, and Taberna da Poncha is the perfect location to try one. This speciality is made from Aguardente de Cana (alcoholic sugar cane juice), honey, sugar, and lemon rind. They are often offered in different flavours, such as orange, lemon, and passionfruit, are available.

The interior of Taberna da Poncha is already worth seeing as you really step back in time! Your poncha will be served with some peanuts, and you’ll notice tons of peanut shells on the floor. An experience!

17. Trying traditional Madeiran cuisine

Food lovers will also enjoy visiting Madeira, which has many restaurants that serve traditional Madeiran foods. Examples are Espetada Madeirense (beef cubes on a skewer and grilled on wood or charcoal), Filete de Espada (fish), Prego no Bolo do Caco (steak sandwich), Picado or Picadinho (beef usually with chips), and Bolo do Caco (a typical bread). We loved the Bolo do Caco at Casa do Bolo do Caco in Funchal, and I was a big fan of the Espada com banana, banana with fish.

Tip 👉 join a 3-hour-long food and wine tour in Funchal!

18. Taste Madeira wine

Visit Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal to learn more about Madeira Wine. A sweet Madeira Wine also tastes delicious after a meal! The wine tour is in a stunning historical building, and during the tour, you will learn more about the traditional Janeiro method. Afterwards, you can enjoy a wine tasting!

You can also enjoy a full-day wine tour, including tastings and lunch! You will stop at several wineries and see the vineyards near São Vicente and Câmara de Lobos. If you prefer to stay in Funchal, the H.M. Borges Winery is another option.

20. Valley of the Nuns

Visit the Valley of the Nuns for some of the best views of Madeira. From Funchal, you reach the valley in about 40 minutes, and you can see it from the village and from above! We first drove to Miradouro da Eira do Serrado to check out the views, and they were incredible! The name Valley of the Nuns is often used, but the name is actually Curral das Freiras. Drive down to the village and surround yourself with some of Madeira’s highest mountains!

Tip 👉 book a room at Hotel Eira Do Serrado to wake up with this stunning view over the Valley of the Nuns! There is a spa, too 😉

21. Visiting museums in Madeira

Funchal boasts several museums, the most famous of which is the CR7 Cristiano Ronaldo Museum. The footballer was born in Madeira and started his impressive career here. You can even follow in his footsteps and learn more about his life by going on a private Cristiano Ronaldo Tour.

The 3D Fun Art Museum in the city is a fun museum to visit with children. Or maybe you’d like to learn more about the sugar cane history of Madeira? Then, the Museum of the City of Sugar (Núcleo Museológico da Cidade do Açúcar (MACA)) is the place to be. Madeira Story Centre is fabulous if you want to know more about the island’s history. The MAMMA Museum is the place to be if you prefer art and music.

In Caniçal, you can visit the Madeira Whale Museum. The island has a whaling history, and at the Madeira Whale Museum, you can dive into this past. Thankfully, things have changed, and whaling is no longer allowed. On the west side of the island, it’s interesting to visit the Museum de Ponto da Pargo Lighthouse. Or how about the Chestnut Museum in Curral das Freiras?!

22. Enjoy a beach day in Madeira

There are several beaches in Madeira where you can spend a relaxing day! Most beaches, however, are volcanic, and you will find mostly black sand beaches on the island. Also, many beaches have stones, which is uncomfortable for most travellers.

There are some sandy beaches to discover. Praia de Machico is probably one of the most beautiful beaches, and it’s near the town of Machico. Calheta also offers some stunning beaches, such as Jardim do Mar and Praia da Calheta, one of the few white sand beaches.

Other recommendations are Praia Da Ribeira Brava (with natural pools), Seixal Beach (black sand beach), Praia da Maiata (rocks), Prainha do Caniçal and Praia Formosa (rocks).

23. Water sports and activities, such as surfing, diving, and sailing

Whether you like sailing, scuba diving, surfing or swimming, the waters surrounding Madeira are inviting for anyone who loves the ocean! Fabulous tours and exciting water sports and activities are available in Madeira. The best surfing spots are on the north coast, particularly in areas like Jardim do Mar, Paul do Mar, and Ponta Pequena.

Numerous dive centres operate on the island, providing guided diving trips and courses for beginners and certified divers. Enjoy stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking to discover hidden coves and sea caves, or step on board a sailboat for an unforgettable adventure!

24. Canyoning in Madeira

Canyoning is also very popular in Madeira, and thankfully, you can join guided tours to enjoy this adventure! Canyoning excursions for beginners will teach you about the safety equipment and how to splash your way through the canyons. You’ll be abseiling at waterfalls and swimming in beautiful natural pools! Canyoning is usually suitable for kids over seven years old. You can enjoy a Level 2 Canyoning experience when you get the hang of it. 

25. Hike the Ponta de São Lourenço trail

Many hikes in Madeira are within the lush green landscape and near stunning waterfalls. The PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço is completely different, and this hike suits most fitness levels. There is a car park near the start of the trail, just outside Caniçal in western Madeira, but there is also a drop-off transfer service from Funchal. The round trip is 7.2 kilometres (4.47 miles) long and will take roughly 2-3 hours to complete.

You can take a break at the cafe or rent a canoe for a few hours. There is also an opportunity for whale watching along the island’s western coast. A snorkelling boat trip is perfect if you’re interested in the underwater world around Ponta de São Lourenço. The breathtaking scenery of this hike is extra special during sunrise and sunset!

27. Afternoon tea at Reid’s Palace Hotel

While Madeira is very much an outdoor and adventure destination, you can also enjoy some fancy moments on the island. Make a reservation at the Belmond Reid’s Palace to enjoy afternoon tea with an ocean view! You will taste freshly baked scones, sandwiches, and amazing pastries, and there are many teas to choose from! Please do not wear hiking gear, as the dress code is smart casual.

30. Visit Porto Santo Island

Another highlight is the Porto Santo Biosphere Nature Reserve, since 2020, part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The biodiversity on the island is amazing, and the best way to explore this is by hiking. Follow the trail to Pico do Facho for panoramic views of Porto Santo and Madeira’s neighbouring islands! Or enjoy some well-deserved spa treatments the island is known for.

When you have time, visiting Porto Santo Island is a must. It’s known as the “Golden Island” and is located 40 kilometres northeast of Madeira. Finding a sandy beach in Madeira can be challenging, but Porto Santo is known for its beautiful golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear water! Porto Santo Beach is 9 kilometres long and a true paradise on earth.

Getting to Porto Santo is relatively easy, with regular ferry services and flights from Funchal Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport. There are also direct flights to Porto Santo from Lisbon!

Best family-friendly things to do in Madeira

Madeira is a fabulous island for all ages, including children! There is a lot to see and do, and your kids will enjoy the island as much as you will. I made a quick list of the best Madeira things to do for families:

• Visiting Madeira Theme Park in Santana
• Enjoy family-friendly beaches such as Praia de Machico
• The Madeira Aquarium in Porto Moniz
• Swim in the natural pools in Porto Moniz
• Visit Parque Florestal das Queimadas and enjoy a short walk
• Levada dos Balcões is a perfect and fast walk for children of any age
• Check out the CR 7 museum in Funchal if your kids like football and Cristiano Ronaldo
• Ride the Hop-on Hop-off bus in Funchal
• Visit the 3D Fun Art Museum in Funchal
• Dolphin and whale watching
• Ride the cable car from Funchal to Monte and take the toboggan back to Funchal
• Enjoy Santa Cruz Aqua Park
• Check out Monte Palace Tropical Garden in Funchal

Transportation in Madeira, Portugal

Flights to Madeira from Portugal

There are direct flights to Madeira daily from mainland Portugal. Fly TAP AirPortugal, EasyJet or Ryanair from Lisbon or Porto. Or, if you’re in Faro, you can book flights with Azores Airlines and TAP. The flight takes around 1,5 hours from mainland Portugal.

You will arrive at Aeroporto da Madeira Internacional Cristiano Ronaldo, located just north of Funchal, Madeira’s capital city. The drive to the capital will take around 20 to 30 minutes. If you stay north of the airport in Santana or surrounding villages, the journey will roughly take the same time. Compare flight tickets and routes easily with Skyscanner, or check the prices with TAP AirPortugal.

Buses in Madeira

Madeira has a good public transport system, and you can explore most corners of the island by bus. If you travel off a budget and have time, this is a great way to explore Madeira. Buses depart regularly, but you’ll travel slower overall. Horários do Funchal operates in the capital, SAM and EACL operate on the east coast of Madeira, and Rodoeste will take you west.

Taxis in Madeira

Especially in Funchal, there is an abundance of taxis available. Avoid having to walk up and down by using taxis if you prefer. Around the harbour, the capital is pretty flat, but Funchal and the rest of Madeira are super mountainous!

Uber and Bolt are widely available. Some taxis can even take you to some sights on the other side of the island. A taxi will be more expensive than a small group tour, but it is ideal if you like your privacy and want to get somewhere quickly. From the airport, it’s also super easy to get a taxi to the old town of Funchal.

Souvenirs from Madeira

When you visit Madeira, there are some unique souvenirs you can bring home. Madeira Wine, Ponha and Rum da Madeira are easy to get here, and also tasty treats like Bolo de Mel. For a unique gift and a complete list of souvenirs from Portugal, click here. There are also favourite stores, including where to buy what in Madeira.

Climate and weather of Madeira

Madeira is often called the “Pearl of the Atlantic” and is a year-round destination thanks to its mild, subtropical climate. With average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F), it never gets too hot or too cold. While there may be more rain between autumn and spring, the weather can shift quickly. You could start your day in the fog, only to see blue skies just minutes later.

Madeira has a beautiful landscape, which makes it a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. From high peaks and rugged cliffs to forests, waterfalls, lava pools, and beaches, there’s plenty to explore. Remember to bring your hiking boots, or try one of the many adventure sports available! Madeira is located near the Canary Islands and Morocco, with its archipelago also including Porto Santo and the Desertas islands.

Hotels in Madeira, Portugal

Between these fun activities, there is also the need for a place to sleep. But where do you want to book your accommodation in Madeira? There are hotels and B&Bs scattered all over the island, and it depends on your preferences. I have included the handy map below to see the availability during your stay, but I also found some unique stays on the island.

If you like a city vibe, Funchal is an amazing place to stay. From luxury hotels in Funchal to hostels, the offer is enormous! Some favourite 5* hotels are Melia Madeira Mare and Quintinha Sao Joao Hotel & Spa. Budget-friendly places in Funchal are 29 Madeira Hostel, Hotel Catedral and GuestHouse Vila Lusitania. The benefits of staying in Funchal are that you’re always close to the restaurants, most tours depart from the capital, and you don’t need to rent a car.

If you visit Madeira for a hiking holiday, or you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you might want to stay in a more natural environment on the island. There are plenty of amazing places on the island, such as Hotel Quinta Do Furao, Casa dos Reis and Quinta das Vinhas. Or discover stunning places like the Calheta Glamping Pods! Overall, the west coast is quieter, and many accommodations are close to the hiking trails. 

Conclusion

Madeira is a fabulous island where you can easily spend a week! Funchal has many sights to offer, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Visit the botanical gardens, Monte Palace Tropical Garden, enjoy a ride in a cable car and discover the old town.

You’ll enjoy traditional dishes in the local restaurants, and Madeira Wine and Poncha flow freely. Visit Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal or discover the vineyards around São Vicente on the north coast. You can even visit a banana plantation and a banana museum on the island!

Most visitors come to Madeira to enjoy nature. The hiking trails are amazing, and if you want to spend some time alone in green scenery, you’ve come to a good place! Some recommendations are Levada da Serra, Levada do Caldeirão Verde, and Levada das 25 Fontes. The Pico do Arieiro is a challenging hike that leads to Madeira’s highest mountain.

Some other top things to do in Madeira are discovering the A-framed houses in Santana, going whale watching, and enjoying the many viewpoints on the island. Or check if you’re afraid of heights at the Cabo Girão viewpoint! Ribeiro Frio Natural Park is perfect for canyoning, and if you prefer to relax, remember to visit the natural pools at Porto Moniz! Have a great trip!

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