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Madeira, Portugal is situated in the Atlantic Ocean, comprising 4 islands off the coast of Africa. Visit Madeira and look forward to admiring diverse natural settings like ancient rainforests, mountains including Pico Ruivo - the highest peak on Madeira Island, sandstone cliffs, coastal valleys, and black beaches, as well as natural swimming pools with crystal-clear waters. The finest way to explore Madeira’s natural landscapes is by hiking one of its levadas (old water channels); there are over 1000 trails to choose from!
Madeira is blessed with a pleasant subtropical climate which means that you’ll probably have good weather to enjoy whenever you decide to visit, and allows for prime conditions to enjoy outdoor activities all year round including wildlife spotting boat trips, paragliding, canyoning, and mountain climbing. Book cheap holiday packages to Madeira with Brightsun and look forward to unforgettable travel adventures.
Rua Imperatriz D.ª Amélia, 9004-513 Funchal, Portugal
Public buses cover major towns, Funchal, and rural areas – they are a cost-effective way of getting around but are less frequent in more remote areas. Taxis are available, and car rentals are common. The region has a good network of roads, though some can be steep and winding. Madeira has a cable car network with routes from Funchal to Monte, and Monte to the Botanical Garden, allowing for scenic views and a unique way to get around.
Madeira is considered very safe for tourists. Petty crime is rare, but usual precautions should be taken. Madeira has a low crime rate, particularly regarding violent crime. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas, but they are not common. The emergency contact number in Madeira is 112, which connects to police, fire, and medical services.
Packing - bring comfortable walking shoes for hiking and exploring, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and swimwear for the beaches and pools.
Driving - if renting a car, be prepared for narrow, winding roads and steep inclines. Automatic transmission cars are less common.
Hiking - for levada walks and hikes, carry water, snacks, and a map. Some trails can be challenging, so check the difficulty level in advance.
Local cuisine - try local specialties like espetada (beef skewers), bolo do caco (flatbread with garlic butter), and fresh seafood. Madeira wine is a must-try.
Festivals - time your visit to coincide with local festivals, such as Carnival in February/March, the Flower Festival in spring, and the Wine Festival in September.
Health - no special vaccinations are required, but it's wise to have travel insurance. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Historical sites - visit the Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição and the Fort of São João Baptista.
Beaches - enjoy the sandy beach and calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Funchal Old Town (Zona Velha) - explore the historic area with cobbled streets, colorful doors, and vibrant street art.
Funchal Cathedral (Sé) - a 16th-century Gothic cathedral with impressive architecture.
Mercado dos Lavradores – a lively market selling fresh produce, fish, flowers, and local crafts.
Madeira Botanical Garden – a beautiful garden located on a hillside, offering a variety of exotic plants and stunning views of Funchal.
Madeira Cable Car - provides breathtaking views of Funchal’s cityscape, the lush vegetation on the hillsides, the Atlantic Ocean, and the terraced vineyards. The cable car begins its journey near the Old Town of Funchal, close to the coast at the base station located in Almirante Reis Park. The ride ends at Monte, a village located on a hill above Funchal.
Monte Palace Tropical Garden - a lush garden with exotic plants, koi ponds, and art collections.
Monte Church (Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte) - a pilgrimage site with beautiful views and the tomb of Charles I of Austria.
Toboggan rides - a traditional wicker sledge ride down the steep streets from Monte to Funchal.
Cabo Girão Skywalk - a glass-floored platform offering breathtaking views from one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.
Porto Moniz natural pools - these are volcanic rock pools filled with seawater, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Levada dos 25 Fontes - known for its 25 springs and beautiful landscapes.
Traditional houses of Santana - iconic A-frame thatched houses that are a symbol of Madeira’s rural heritage.
Curral das Freiras (Nun's Valley) - a secluded valley surrounded by towering peaks, offering dramatic scenery and local chestnut products.
Ponta de São Lourenço Nature Reserve – a protected area with rugged cliffs, unique flora, and stunning ocean views.
Laurisilva Forest – a UNESCO World Heritage Site with rich biodiversity, perfect for nature walks and bird watching.
Wickerwork Village, Camacha - famous for its wicker crafts, you can visit workshops and purchase handmade items.
Porto Santo Island - often referred to as the Golden Island because of its stunning 9-kilometer-long sandy beach, known for its fine, golden sands.
Madeira, known for its mild subtropical climate, offers pleasant weather throughout the year.
Spring (March to May)
Temperatures range from 16°C to 22°C in the spring. It’s warm and sunny with blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring nature. Madeira’s annual Flower Festival is held in April.
Summer (June to August)
Summers in Madeira are warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 19°C to 26°C - perfect for beach outings and water sports. Summer days are long with plenty of sunshine, lively festivals, and outdoor concerts.
Autumn (September to November)
In autumn, the weather is mild and pleasant, with occasional rain showers, and temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. Autumn is Madeira’s harvest season, and the region holds its Wine Festival in September.
Winter (December to February)
Madeira's winters are mild and relatively wet, especially in the mountains, and temperatures range from 14°C to 20°C. Highlights include Christmas and New Year celebrations, including spectacular fireworks in Funchal.
Madeira’s consistently mild climate makes it a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences for visitors.
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