Best Places to visit in Madeira Island

Funchal: The Vibrant Heart of Madeira

As the island’s capital, Funchal is a captivating city where historic charm and modern life coexist beautifully. Nestled in a natural amphitheater facing the Atlantic, its sun-drenched streets, lush gardens, and bustling harbor offer a perfect introduction to the spirit of Madeira. For more on navigating the city, check out our comprehensive travel guide to Funchal.

Explore the Zona Velha (Old Town)

Wandering through the narrow, cobbled lanes of the Zona Velha is a journey back in time. This historic core of Funchal is brimming with character, from its traditional architecture to the lively atmosphere of its many restaurants and bars. A highlight is the Rua de Santa Maria, where a public art project has transformed the street into an open-air gallery. The “Art of Open Doors” initiative features hundreds of doors painted by local artists, each telling a unique story. As evening approaches, the area comes alive with the chatter from traditional taverns serving local poncha and restaurants offering fresh seafood. Guarding the eastern end of the district is the 17th-century Forte de São Tiago, a striking yellow fortress that now houses a contemporary art museum and restaurant, offering a vivid contrast against the blue ocean.

Ride the Funchal Cable Car (Teleférico do Funchal)

For an unparalleled perspective of the city, a ride on the Funchal Cable Car is essential. The journey begins near the waterfront and embarks on a gentle, 15-minute ascent to the elevated suburb of Monte. As the cabin glides silently upwards, the view unfolds in spectacular fashion. The dense cluster of Funchal’s white-washed buildings and terracotta roofs gives way to a sprawling panorama of the city, its crescent-shaped bay, and the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean. This aerial journey provides not only breathtaking views but also serves as the most scenic and direct connection to the attractions in Monte.

Discover the Monte Palace Tropical Garden

At the top of the cable car’s ascent lies the magnificent Monte Palace Tropical Garden. This multi-level botanical wonderland is a testament to nature and art coexisting in harmony. The gardens are home to a vast collection of exotic plants from every continent, alongside native Madeiran flora. Visitors can wander through serene Oriental gardens complete with pagodas, bridges, and koi ponds, or admire one of the most significant collections of Portuguese tile panels (azulejos) in the country. These panels, dating from the 15th to the 20th centuries, are displayed along the walkways, depicting moments from Madeira’s rich history. The garden also features art exhibitions and a mineral museum, making it a rich cultural and sensory experience.

Experience the Mercado dos Lavradores

The “Farmers’ Market” is a vibrant hub of activity and a true feast for the senses. Housed in a historic Art Deco building, the market is a kaleidoscope of color, sound, and scent. The ground floor is dedicated to the fish market, where you can see the formidable black scabbardfish (espada) being prepared. The upper levels are an explosion of floral and agricultural abundance. You’ll find vendors selling stunning arrangements of exotic flowers, alongside stalls piled high with unusual fruits, some of which are unique crosses found only in Madeira.

The vendors are known for their enthusiastic sales approach and will often offer free samples. It’s a wonderful way to taste new things, but it’s useful to be prepared. Consider what to pack for your trip to ensure you’re comfortable exploring markets like this.

• Feel free to accept a sample, but be aware that it often comes with a strong encouragement to purchase.
• Prices for pre-cut, packaged fruit can be significantly higher than for whole fruits.
• A polite but firm “Não, obrigado” (No, thank you) is perfectly acceptable if you decide not to buy. Appreciate the experience without feeling pressured.

The Famous Monte Toboggan Wicker Sleds

For a truly unique and exhilarating descent from Monte, look no further than the traditional wicker toboggans. These two-seater sleds, gliding on wooden runners, are steered by two “Carreiros do Monte,” men dressed in traditional white attire and straw hats who use their rubber-soled boots as brakes. The thrilling 2-kilometer ride down the steep, winding streets provides a shot of adrenaline and a memorable story to tell. This tradition dates back to the early 19th century when it was the primary means of downhill transport for the wealthy residents of Monte. Today, it stands as one of Madeira’s most iconic and enjoyable tourist experiences. If you’re planning your trip, understanding the budget for visiting Madeira Island can help you allocate funds for experiences like this.

Breathtaking Coastal Towns and Villages

While Funchal is the island’s dynamic center, Madeira’s soul is truly found along its dramatic coastline. Dotted with charming towns and villages, each offers a unique window into the island’s culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. From historic fishing harbors to sun-drenched havens, these coastal gems are essential stops on any Madeiran itinerary. You might want to consult our travel itinerary ideas for Madeira Island to best fit these locations into your trip.

Câmara de Lobos: A Picturesque Fishing Village

Just a short drive from Funchal, Câmara de Lobos presents a scene that has captivated artists for generations. Most famously, Winston Churchill set up his easel here, drawn to the authentic charm of the harbor. The bay is filled with vibrant, traditional fishing boats, known as Xavelhas, bobbing on the water, with their daily catches supplying the local restaurants. The village itself is a delightful maze of narrow streets, white-washed houses, and welcoming taverns. It’s the perfect place to absorb the slow-paced life of a Madeiran fishing community.

While here, you can sample some unique local beverages:

• Nikita: A surprisingly refreshing and creamy concoction made from beer, vanilla ice cream, sugar, and pineapple chunks.
• Pé de Cabra: A potent and traditional drink for the more adventurous, made with dry Madeira wine, dark beer, sugar, and chocolate powder.

Ponta do Sol: The Sunniest Spot on the Island

True to its name, which translates to “Point of the Sun,” Ponta do Sol is reputed to be the sunniest and warmest spot on the island. This small, tranquil village is a favorite for those seeking relaxation and spectacular sunsets. The village center is compact and charming, leading to a well-maintained stone beach where you can relax to the sound of the Atlantic waves. A picturesque bridge connects the village to the pier, offering a beautiful vantage point to watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery colors.

Santana: Home of the Traditional Thatched Houses

On the north coast, the village of Santana is famous for its iconic, triangular thatched-roof houses. These traditional dwellings, known as Casas Típicas de Santana, are a symbol of Madeira’s rural heritage. With their brightly painted wooden doors and windows set against white walls and thick straw roofs, they offer a glimpse into the island’s past. While many are now preserved for tourists, they remain a defining feature of the region’s cultural identity. For a more interactive look at local traditions, the Madeira Theme Park (Parque Temático da Madeira) is also located nearby, offering exhibits on the island’s history, culture, and nature.

Jardim do Mar: A Surfer’s Paradise

Meaning “Garden of the Sea,” Jardim do Mar lives up to its name with its lush greenery cascading down the cliffs to the ocean’s edge. This village has gained international fame as a surfing hotspot, attracting wave riders from around the globe to its world-class breaks. Yet, beyond the surf, Jardim do Mar is a haven of tranquility. The village is a car-free zone, with quaint, narrow pedestrian streets winding between stone houses adorned with flowers. The laid-back, bohemian vibe makes it an ideal place to disconnect, stroll along the promenade, and simply enjoy the powerful presence of the sea. For advice on getting around the island, our guide to transportation in Madeira Island will be helpful.

Majestic Mountains and Dramatic Viewpoints

While Madeira’s coastline is stunning, its interior heart is a world of jagged peaks, cloud-piercing mountains, and panoramic views that command your attention. To truly understand the island’s dramatic topography, you must ascend into its highlands.

Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo: Hiking Above the Clouds

Standing tall in the center of the island are its highest points. Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak at 1,818 meters, has the distinct advantage of being accessible by car, making it a popular spot for watching the sunrise above a sea of clouds. A short drive delivers you to a viewpoint and café, offering a spectacular introduction to Madeira’s alpine environment.

From here, the truly adventurous can embark on one of Madeira’s most famous and demanding hikes: the PR1 Vereda do Areeiro. This trail connects Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest point at 1,862 meters. The path is a masterpiece of engineering, carved directly into the volcanic rock with steep stairways, narrow ledges, and dark tunnels cutting through the mountains. The scenery is otherworldly, with razor-sharp ridges and endless vistas that change with every turn. This is a challenging trek, requiring a good level of fitness and a steady nerve, but the reward is an unforgettable experience of walking on the roof of Madeira.

It is essential to check the weather conditions before attempting this hike. The weather in the mountains can change in an instant, shifting from clear skies to dense fog and strong winds. Always consult a reliable forecast and the live webcams available online before you set off. For more on this, check out our guide on weather and climate in Madeira Island.

Cabo Girão: The Skywalk Viewpoint

Perched at an elevation of 580 meters, Cabo Girão is one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. What makes it a must-visit destination is its suspended glass-floored viewing platform, known as the skywalk. Stepping out onto the transparent floor provides a thrilling, vertiginous perspective, looking straight down to the crashing waves and the small, terraced fields (called fajãs) at the cliff’s base. The panoramic view of the southern coast, with Funchal in the distance, is equally impressive, offering a moment of awe at the sheer scale of the landscape.

Ponta de São Lourenço: The Volcanic Peninsula

The easternmost tip of Madeira presents a landscape starkly different from the island’s lush, green interior. Ponta de São Lourenço is a long, narrow peninsula of volcanic rock, sculpted by the wind into a dramatic and arid terrain. Its treeless, windswept slopes are covered in low-lying vegetation, showcasing hues of red, brown, and orange that contrast beautifully with the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean.

The best way to experience this unique environment is by walking the PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço trail. This moderately challenging hike follows a well-maintained path along the peninsula’s spine, offering continuous, breathtaking views of the northern and southern coastlines. The trail culminates near a final, steep climb to a viewpoint, but just before it lies the Cais do Sardinha, a ranger’s station and a tranquil rest stop. Here, you can find a small, sheltered bay perfect for a refreshing swim before making the return journey.

Unmissable Natural Wonders

The Enchanting Fanal Forest

Stepping into the Fanal Forest is like entering a living fairytale. Located on the Paul da Serra plateau, this ancient woodland is home to gnarled, centuries-old laurel trees, their twisted branches reaching out like something from a fantasy epic. Part of the larger Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Fanal possesses an ethereal and mystical atmosphere, especially when the characteristic mist rolls in, shrouding the landscape in a soft, quiet blanket.

Walking among these magnificent trees is a humbling experience. The silence, broken only by the rustle of leaves or the call of a bird, invites quiet contemplation. For photographers and nature lovers, the forest is a source of endless inspiration. To experience its most iconic foggy conditions, it is best to visit early in the morning or on days when the island’s interior is covered in low cloud, which can happen year-round. Consider our guide on best time to visit Madeira Island for planning.

The Natural Swimming Pools of Porto Moniz

On the island’s northwestern tip, the town of Porto Moniz offers one of Madeira’s most unique swimming experiences. Here, volcanic eruptions from millennia ago formed natural pools in the lava rock along the coastline. These basins are naturally filled and refreshed with crystal-clear water by the Atlantic tide, creating a safe and spectacular place to swim. The dark, rugged lava walls provide a dramatic barrier against the powerful ocean waves that crash just meters away, offering a thrilling spectacle as you relax in the calm waters.

The complex is well-equipped with facilities, making it an ideal destination for families and visitors of all ages. It is a remarkable example of nature’s architecture, providing a refreshing and memorable dip in the ocean, framed by stunning coastal scenery. Think about what to pack for Madeira Island when planning your visit.

Seixal’s Black Sand Beach and Pools

A short drive from Porto Moniz lies the village of Seixal, which boasts one of the most visually stunning beaches on the island. The fine, black volcanic sand of Praia do Porto do Seixal creates a breathtaking contrast with the turquoise water of the ocean and the vibrant green of the dramatic cliffs that tower over it. Waterfalls often cascade directly down the cliffsides towards the beach, adding to the incredible scenery.

Beyond the main beach, Seixal is also home to its own set of natural lava pools, including the Poça das Lesmas. These pools feel slightly more rustic and secluded than their famous counterparts in Porto Moniz, offering a tranquil spot to enjoy the clear Atlantic waters while surrounded by incredible volcanic rock formations.

The Magic of the Levada Walks

To truly understand Madeira is to walk its levadas. These remarkable irrigation channels are the lifeblood of the island, forming an intricate network that stretches for over 2,000 kilometers. Following these gently sloping waterways offers an unparalleled way to access the island’s most remote and beautiful landscapes, from dense forests to dramatic coastal cliffs.

Understanding Madeira’s Levadas

The story of the levadas is a testament to human ingenuity. Beginning in the 15th century, these channels were painstakingly carved into the mountainsides, often by hand, to transport precious water from the rainy, spring-fed north to the sun-drenched agricultural lands of the south. This system allowed for the cultivation of sugarcane, bananas, and grapes for Madeira wine. Today, while still serving their primary agricultural purpose, the maintenance paths alongside them have become a world-class network of hiking trails, guiding walkers deep into the heart of the island’s UNESCO-protected Laurissilva forest.

Levada das 25 Fontes / Levada do Risco

Located in the Rabaçal valley, this is perhaps the most celebrated levada walk in Madeira, and for good reason. It is actually two distinct paths that are often combined. The Levada do Risco (“Risk Levada”) is a straightforward and relatively flat walk leading to a magnificent, high waterfall that cascades down the mountainside. The main event, however, is the Levada das 25 Fontes (“25 Springs Levada”). This trail culminates in a truly magical amphitheater-like lagoon, where numerous streams of water trickle down a moss-covered rock face into a crystal-clear pool below. The scenery throughout is a vibrant tapestry of green, with lush ferns and ancient trees lining the path. The walk is of moderate difficulty, mainly due to some narrow sections and steps, and can become quite busy. An early start is recommended to experience its tranquility with fewer people.

Levada do Caldeirão Verde

For a truly immersive journey into the primeval Laurissilva forest, the Levada do Caldeirão Verde (“Green Cauldron Levada”) is an essential experience. Starting from the Queimadas Forest Park, this walk is a sensory delight, following a path carved directly into the verdant cliffs. The trail is mostly flat but requires a sense of adventure, as you must navigate through several long, dark tunnels blasted through the rock. It is essential to bring a reliable torch or headlamp for these passages. The reward at the end of the trail is spectacular: a towering waterfall that plunges into a stunning, emerald-green pool, creating a scene of raw, natural power. The return journey is along the same path, offering a new perspective on the breathtaking scenery you passed on the way in.

A Golden Escape: Porto Santo Island

While Madeira is famed for its lush green mountains and dramatic cliffs, its smaller sister island, Porto Santo, offers a beautiful contrast. Just a short journey away, this tranquil haven is celebrated for its vast, serene landscapes and, most notably, its magnificent golden sand beach, earning it the nickname “The Golden Island.”

The 9km Golden Sand Beach

The main attraction of Porto Santo is undoubtedly its stunning 9-kilometer (nearly 6-mile) stretch of soft, golden sand that meets the calm, turquoise waters of the Atlantic. Unlike Madeira’s pebbled shores, this beach provides a classic seaside escape. Beyond its visual appeal, the sand is renowned for its therapeutic properties. Rich in calcium, magnesium, and iodine, it is believed to offer relief for rheumatic and orthopedic conditions, and many visitors partake in “psammotherapy,” or medicinal sand baths.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day trip to unwind from the adventures on the main island or planning a longer, more relaxed stay, Porto Santo’s beach provides the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and quiet contemplation.

How to Get to Porto Santo

Reaching this idyllic island is straightforward, with two primary options available from Funchal. The most common method is the daily ferry, the Lobo Marinho, which offers a pleasant 2.5-hour journey across the ocean. This allows you to enjoy sea views and even spot marine life along the way. Alternatively, for a quicker transfer, a small propeller plane makes the trip in just about 25 minutes, providing a beautiful aerial perspective of both islands.

Porto Santo is more than just its beach. For a rewarding view, consider a hike up to Pico Castelo, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the entire island. You can also explore the charming main town, Vila Baleira, visit the Christopher Columbus House Museum, or discover the island’s iconic windmills dotted across the landscape.

Essential Madeira Experiences

Dolphin and Whale Watching

The deep blue Atlantic waters surrounding Madeira are a sanctuary for an incredible diversity of marine life. A boat trip from Funchal or Calheta offers more than just a change of perspective; it is an opportunity to observe dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. Sightings are common throughout the year, with species like the Common Dolphin, Bottlenose Dolphin, and Pilot Whale frequently spotted playing in the waves. The experience of seeing these magnificent creatures against the backdrop of the island’s dramatic coastline is a quiet, profound highlight of any visit.

Several types of tours are available, each offering a different experience:

• Catamaran Tours: These larger, stable boats provide a relaxed and spacious journey. They are ideal for families and those looking to sunbathe and swim in a secluded bay as part of the trip.
• Speedboat Tours: For a more intimate and exhilarating encounter, smaller rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) can get you closer to the action more quickly, offering a more adventurous perspective.

Madeira Wine and Food Tasting

To truly understand Madeira, one must taste it. The island’s culture is deeply intertwined with its unique culinary traditions, starting with its world-renowned fortified wine. A visit to one of the historic Madeira Wine lodges in Funchal, such as Blandy’s, is essential. Here, you can learn about the unique estufagem heating process that gives the wine its distinctive character and sample the different varieties, from dry Sercial to the rich and sweet Malvasia.

Beyond the wine, Madeira’s gastronomy is rustic, flavourful, and deeply satisfying. Be sure to seek out these local specialities:

• Espetada: A true Madeiran tradition. Large chunks of beef are seasoned with garlic and salt, skewered onto a bay laurel stick (which infuses the meat with a wonderful aroma), and grilled over hot coals. It’s simple, convivial, and delicious.
• Bolo do Caco: This is not a cake, but a wonderfully soft and chewy flatbread. Cooked on a hot basalt stone slab (the caco), it’s typically served warm, slathered in garlic butter, and accompanies most meals.
• Lapas: A beloved local delicacy, these small limpets are grilled in their shells and served sizzling in a pan with garlic butter and a generous squeeze of fresh lemon. They are a perfect appetiser to enjoy by the sea.