Madeira

Portugal, Europe

Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is famed for its stunning landscapes, lush vegetation, and vibrant culture. Known as the 'Pearl of the Atlantic,' it boasts breathtaking levada walks, idyllic coastal views, and charming villages. The island's botanical gardens and the volcanic crater of Pico Ruivo offer unique experiences for nature enthusiasts. Moreover, the warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and the famous Madeira wine make it an alluring destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Porto Santo

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Madeira

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hiking the Levadas

Explore stunning trails along Madeira's irrigation channels.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Pico do Arieiro

Experience breathtaking views from Madeira's third-highest peak.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Funchal's Mercado dos Lavradores

Discover local produce and crafts at this vibrant market.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax at Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools

Swim in volcanic rock pools filled with ocean water.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Take the Monte cable car

Enjoy scenic views as you ascend to Monte.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Botanical Garden

Stroll through a diverse collection of exotic plants.

No booking required
7

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Try Poncha at a local bar

Savor the traditional Madeira drink made with sugarcane.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Cabo Girão Skywalk

Walk on the glass platform for stunning cliff views.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the levada walks in Ribeiro Frio

Experience lush nature on well-maintained trails.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum

Learn about the football star's life and achievements.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

12 (#1 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Portuguese

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Fish and Seafood

Variety of fresh fish and shellfish. (National dish)

Bacalhau à Brás

Codfish dish with potatoes and eggs.

Pastel de Nata

V

Custard tart with flaky pastry.

Francesinha

Hearty sandwich with meats and sauce.

Caldo Verde

VE

Kale soup with potatoes and onions.

Phrases to learn

English

Portuguese

Hello

Olá

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Sim / Nao

(Seem / Nowm)

Thank you

Obrigado

(Oh-bree-gah-doh)

Excuse me

Desculpe

(Deh-skul-peh)

How much?

Quanto?

(Kwan-too)