Madeira Travel Guide – 9 Best Things to Do
Madeira is a Portuguese island known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique attractions. Often called the “Pearl of the Atlantic”, the island is a perfect getaway for those that love adventure and nature. In this Madeira travel guide we cover the best things to do, where to stay, how to get here, and tips to make the most of your visit.
Located about 1,000 km southwest of mainland Portugal, Madeira is actually closer to mainland Africa—just 600 km west of Morocco. It’s a lush, volcanic island with subtropical climate meaning year-round mild temperatures. Madeira is blessed with natural beauty, which includes towering mountains, dense forests, and a rugged coastline.
Madeira’s capital, Funchal, is a lively city known for its historical architecture, vibrant markets, and botanical gardens. The island is also famous for its wine, traditional festivals, and warm hospitality. Madeira offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a popular European destination.
Things to Do in Madeira
1. Jardim Monte Palace Madeira
Jardim Monte Palace, located in the hills above Funchal, is one of Madeira’s most beautiful and serene spots. This botanical garden covers over 70,000 square meters and is home to an impressive collection of exotic plants from all over the world.
As well as the lush greenery, the gardens are dotted with artworks like tile murals and sculptures. The palace itself, a stunning example of 18th-century architecture and houses a museum with exhibits on the island’s history, as well as African art.
At the lower end of the gardens there’s also a tranquil area with koi ponds, waterfalls, and landscaped paths.
2. Ride the Cable Car
The cable car ride from Funchal to Monte is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Madeira. Offering breathtaking views of the city, the coastline, and the surrounding mountains, this 15-minute journey takes you up to the village of Monte, which sits at an elevation of 600 meters. This is the best way to reach the gardens mentioned above and an experience on its own.
As you head up, the panoramic views become more and more spectacular, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective of Madeira’s diverse landscape and Funchal’s striking orange roofs.
3. Monte Toboggan
If the cable car is the best way up to Monte, the toboggan is surely the best way back down! It’s one of Madeira’s more unique and exciting experiences. This traditional mode of transport dates back to the 19th century when it was used by locals to descend quickly from Monte to Funchal.
The toboggan is a wicker basket sled guided by two men, known as “carreiros”, who skillfully navigate the winding streets using their feet as brakes. The journey is around 2 km and lasts about 10 minutes.
It’s a fun and unusual way to experience a piece of Madeira’s history, and it’s something you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
4. Natural Swimming Pools
Madeira’s volcanic origins have created some spectacular natural swimming pools, two of the most popular being Doca do Cavacas and Porto Moniz.
Doca do Cavacas is conveniently located near Funchal and has small, natural rock pools filled with clear seawater.
Porto Moniz, on the other hand, is a larger and more famous set of natural pools, but they are located on the islands northwest coast, away from Funchal.
Both options are great places to relax, take a dip, and enjoy the beautiful ocean views. Porto Moniz is probably the better of the two but involves more travelling. If you’re here for a while, why not try both and decide for yourself?
5. Jeep Tour
A jeep tour is one of the best ways to explore Madeira’s rugged interior and reach places that are off the beaten path. These tours take you through the island’s mountainous terrain, lush forests, and remote villages, offering a different perspective on Madeira’s natural beauty.
You can choose from various tours like a West Madeira Tour which also stops at the Porto Moniz natural pools, or this Jeep Safari which takes you to the northern town of Seixal via the forests and central plateau of the island.
6. Waterfall in the Road
One of Madeira’s quirkiest attractions is Cascata dos Anjos or Angles Waterfall. It’s a waterfall in the middle of the old coastal road, ER101.
If you’re in the car, take the opportunity to drive slowly under the waterfall, allowing the water to splash over you.
Most people also get out and walk under the waterfall but be careful and considerate of the other cars.
7. Catamaran
Taking a sunset catamaran trip along Madeira’s coast is a fantastic way to enjoy the island from a different perspective. This tour leaves from Funchal and takes you along the southern coast, offering stunning views of the cliffs, beaches, and small coastal villages.
Midway through the journey, there’s a stop where you can dive in the water for a sunset dip. The boat is also equipped with a bar so you can enjoy a drink while you relax onboard.
8. Dolphin and Whale Watching
Madeira is one of the best places in Europe for dolphin and whale watching, thanks to its deep, open waters and abundant marine life. Several species of dolphins and whales can be seen year-round, the most common are bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and sperm whales.
While you may see dolphins on the catamaran trip, there’s a far better chance to see them up close on a dedicated whale and dolphin watching tour. For the best value for money, there’s also a luxury tour with all-inclusive food and drinks.
9. Pico do Arieiro – Sunrise Above the Clouds
For a truly one-off and unforgettable experience, head to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, to witness the sunrise above the clouds. At an elevation of 1,818 meters, Pico do Arieiro offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, often with a sea of clouds below.
Arriving before dawn and watching the first rays of sunlight illuminate the peaks is a truly amazing sight. The changing colors of the sky, combined with the dramatic landscape, make for an incredible photo and timelapse opportunity.
If you’re renting a car then it’s easily accessible, alternatively, you can book a jeep trip to Pico Arieiro.
Where to Stay in Madeira
Madeira offers a range of accommodations for all budgets. Here are some suggestions based on price range.
Luxury: For those seeking luxury, Madeira offers several high-end hotels and resorts, particularly in Funchal. Reid’s Palace, a historic hotel with a clifftop location and stunning ocean views is one of the standout popular choices.
Mid-Range: A more affordable, but still 5-star, option is The Savoy Palace Madeira with stunning modern rooms and beautiful pool area.
Budget: Budget travelers will find plenty of options in Madeira. The 29 Madeira Hostel is in a good central location and offers private rooms and dorms at an affordable price.
How to Get to Madeira
Flying is the main way to get to Madeira, with Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in Funchal being the main entry point. Several airlines offer direct flights from major European cities, making it relatively easy to reach the island.
Getting Around Madeira
Madeira has a well-maintained road network, making it easy to explore the island by car. Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around, allowing you to visit remote areas at your own pace.
Public transportation is also available, with buses connecting Funchal to other parts of the island. While buses are a more affordable option, they may not reach some of the more remote areas.
Taxis via the ride-hailing app Bolt are a good option around Funchal and guided tours are also readily available for attractions that are further out.
Madeira FAQs
Is Madeira Worth Visiting?
Yes, Madeira is definitely worth visiting! The island offers some unique attractions as well as stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in hiking, exploring historic sites, or simply relaxing by the sea, Madeira has something to offer.
Is Madeira Cheap or Expensive?
Madeira is generally considered an affordable destination compared to other European tourist spots. While luxury options are available, budget travelers can also find plenty of affordable accommodations, dining, and activities. The cost of living on the island is relatively low, making it a popular choice for expats and digital nomads.
How Many Days Are Enough in Madeira?
A minimum of five days is recommended to fully explore Madeira. This allows you to experience the island’s main attractions while also leaving time for relaxation. However, if you’re interested in hiking or want to explore the island more thoroughly, a stay of around seven days would be ideal.
What is the Best Month to Visit Madeira?
The best time to visit Madeira is from April to October, when the weather is warm and dry. During this period, you can enjoy outdoor activities, the blooming flowers, and the various festivals held on the island. However, Madeira’s mild climate makes it a year-round destination, so there’s no bad time to visit.
Is Madeira Portuguese?
Yes, Madeira is the name of the island and also the archipelago which is an autonomous region of Portugal. The official language is Portuguese, and the island shares many cultural and historical ties with mainland Portugal. Despite its location in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is very much a part of Portugal.
Madeira Travel Guide – 9 Best Things to Do
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