Do’s and Don’t in Madeira Island

Navigating Madeira’s Winding Roads

Exploring Madeira by car is the best way to uncover its hidden gems, from dramatic coastal viewpoints to serene mountain valleys. However, driving here is an adventure in itself. The island’s unique topography dictates a network of steep, narrow, and winding roads that demand your full attention. Here’s how to navigate them with confidence.

DO: Rent a Small but Powerful Car

When choosing a rental car, think compact but capable. A smaller vehicle, like a Fiat 500 or Renault Clio, is a significant advantage when navigating the charming but tight streets of towns like Funchal or squeezing into limited parking spaces at popular viewpoints. However, do not compromise on engine power. Madeira’s roads are notoriously steep, and a car with a weak engine will struggle on the inclines, making for a stressful and slow journey. A turbocharged engine or one with at least 1.2 litres is a wise investment for a more comfortable experience.

DON’T: Underestimate Driving Times

Put your usual expectations for travel time aside. A glance at the map can be deceptive; a 30-kilometre journey that might take 20 minutes elsewhere could easily take over an hour in Madeira. The island’s roads twist and turn, climb and descend constantly. Your average speed will be much lower than you anticipate. Always add a generous buffer to your schedule, especially when heading to the airport or a time-sensitive tour. Embrace the journey itself as part of the experience, allowing for spontaneous stops at breathtaking viewpoints.

DO: Honk on Blind Corners

On the narrow rural roads, you’ll often hear a short, friendly beep from an approaching car. This isn’t aggressive driving; it’s a crucial local safety custom. On countless blind corners where two cars cannot pass, a quick tap of the horn alerts any oncoming driver to your presence, allowing one of you to find a wider spot to pull over. When you find yourself on these smaller roads, adopt the practice. It’s a simple, cooperative way to ensure everyone stays safe.

DON’T: Rely Solely on GPS in Remote Areas

While GPS is invaluable for navigating the main arteries, it can become a liability in the island’s more remote interior. Satellite navigation systems sometimes identify old, unpaved, or dangerously narrow farm tracks as viable “shortcuts.” Blindly following these directions can lead you into precarious situations. Use your GPS as a guide, but pair it with common sense and a physical road map. When in doubt, stick to the well-maintained main roads, typically designated as ER (Estrada Regional) routes, even if your GPS suggests a quicker path.

Hiking the Famous Levadas and Veredas

Madeira is a hiker’s paradise, crisscrossed by a unique network of irrigation channels (levadas) and mountain paths (veredas). These trails offer breathtaking access to the island’s lush laurissilva forests, dramatic peaks, and coastal cliffs. To make the most of this experience, however, preparation is key. Consider checking our what to pack guide to ensure you have the right gear.

DO: Wear Proper Hiking Footwear

The charm of the levadas often involves walking on paths that are perpetually damp, uneven, and covered in slick stones or mud. Leave the trainers and sandals for Funchal’s promenades. A sturdy pair of hiking boots or dedicated trail shoes with excellent grip is non-negotiable. They provide the ankle support and traction needed to navigate slippery sections with confidence, ensuring your focus remains on the stunning scenery, not on your footing.

DON’T: Forget a Headlamp or Torch

Many of the most iconic levada walks, such as the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, feature tunnels carved through the mountainside. Some of these are short, but others can stretch for hundreds of meters in complete darkness, with low ceilings and uneven, wet ground underfoot. While a phone flashlight might seem sufficient, a proper headlamp is far superior. It keeps your hands free for balance and is typically brighter and more reliable, making the passage through these historic tunnels both safer and more enjoyable.

DO: Check Trail Status and Weather Before You Go

Madeira’s mountain weather is notoriously fickle and can shift from bright sunshine to dense fog and rain in a remarkably short time. Furthermore, trails can be temporarily closed due to landslides, maintenance, or weather damage. Before setting out, always consult an official source like the IFCN (Instituto das Florestas e Conservação da Natureza) website or app, or stop by a local tourist information office for the most current updates on trail conditions and weather forecasts for the specific area you plan to hike. Understanding the island’s climate is crucial for planning.

DON’T: Hike Alone on Unfamiliar Trails

While the trails are generally well-marked, many venture into remote parts of the island where mobile phone service is non-existent. For your safety, it’s wise to avoid hiking solo, especially on long or challenging routes you’re not familiar with. If you’re traveling alone, consider joining a guided hiking tour. This not only enhances safety but also provides rich insights into the local flora, fauna, and history from an expert guide.

DO: Pack Layers and a Waterproof Jacket

The island is famous for its microclimates. It can be a warm, sunny day at sea level in Funchal, while simultaneously being cold, windy, and wet in the mountains around Pico do Arieiro. The key is to dress in layers: a base layer, a fleece or mid-layer, and a reliable waterproof and windproof outer jacket. This allows you to adapt to changing conditions as you gain or lose altitude, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your hike.

Savoring the Flavors of the Island

Madeira’s culinary landscape is as rich and dramatic as its physical one. Shaped by the sea, the mountains, and centuries of tradition, the island’s food is rustic, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. To truly experience Madeira, you must taste it.

DO: Try the Local Specialties

While exploring, make it a point to seek out the island’s signature dishes and drinks. They are the heart of Madeiran culture and offer a delicious window into its soul. Look for these on menus:

• Espetada: These are not your average beef skewers. Large chunks of beef are rubbed with garlic and salt, skewered onto a bay leaf stick (laurel skewer), and grilled over hot coals. The result is a smoky, tender, and incredibly flavorful dish, often served hanging from a special stand at the table.
• Bolo do Caco: This circular, flat bread is a staple at every meal. Made with sweet potato, it’s light, fluffy, and traditionally cooked on a hot stone slab (`caco`). It’s most often served warm, slathered in garlic butter, and is the perfect accompaniment to almost any dish.
• Lapas: Grilled limpets are a quintessential seaside snack. Served sizzling in a pan with garlic butter and a squeeze of fresh lemon, these chewy, savory morsels taste of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Poncha: The island’s famous local drink is potent and deceptive. The traditional fisherman’s version is a simple, powerful mix of aguardente de cana (sugarcane spirit), honey, and lemon juice. You’ll find countless fruit variations, but be warned—it’s stronger than it tastes!
• Madeira Wine: A visit is incomplete without sampling the fortified wine that made the island famous. From dry aperitifs (Sercial) to rich, sweet dessert wines (Malmsey), there is a style for every palate. Consider a tasting at a wine lodge in Funchal to understand its unique history and production process.

DON’T: Skip the Mercado dos Lavradores (But Be a Savvy Shopper)

The Farmers’ Market in Funchal is an absolute feast for the senses and a must-visit. The explosion of color from exotic flowers, the intricate displays of strange and wonderful passionfruit varieties, and the bustling energy of the fish market in the basement make it an unforgettable experience. It’s a photographer’s dream and a fantastic place to observe local life.

That said, approach the fruit stalls with gentle awareness. While the vendors are charismatic, the offers of free samples can sometimes lead to pressure to buy at inflated prices. It’s perfectly fine to admire the displays without tasting, and a polite “não, obrigado/obrigada” (no, thank you) is always understood. If you do wish to buy, it’s wise to clarify the price per kilo beforehand to avoid any surprises at the till. For more on what to bring back, check out our guide on handcrafts and souvenirs.

DO: Eat Where the Locals Eat

While the restaurants along Funchal’s main tourist thoroughfares are convenient, the most memorable and authentic meals are often found elsewhere. Venture into the side streets or travel to smaller coastal villages and look for unassuming little restaurants known as tascas. These are typically small, family-run establishments where the menu is simple, the ingredients are fresh, and the welcome is warm. This is where you’ll find traditional cooking at its best, often at a fraction of the price. Exploring the gastronomy of Madeira Island is an essential part of any visit.

DON’T: Expect Dinner at 6 PM

Madeira runs on Portuguese time, which means a more relaxed and later schedule for meals. Most locals eat their evening meal much later than is common in Northern Europe or America. Restaurants typically open for dinner service around 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM and won’t get busy until 8:00 PM or later. Embrace this cultural rhythm; enjoy a late afternoon drink, and adjust to a leisurely dinner that stretches into the evening. Understanding the local schedule is part of the adventure of visiting the Madeira Island.

Embracing Local Culture and Etiquette

Beyond the stunning landscapes and thrilling activities, Madeira’s charm lies in its warm, welcoming culture. Engaging with local customs, even in small ways, can transform your trip from a simple holiday into a more meaningful experience. Here’s how to connect with the island’s spirit.

DO: Learn a Few Basic Portuguese Phrases

While you don’t need to be fluent, making an effort to speak a little Portuguese is immensely appreciated by locals. It’s a simple gesture of respect that can open doors and bring smiles. Start with these essentials:

• Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite: Good morning / Good afternoon / Good night.
• Por favor: Please. A universally useful and polite word.
• Obrigado / Obrigada: Thank you. Men say obrigado, and women say obrigada.
• Com licença: Excuse me (when trying to pass someone).

Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, the simple act of trying is what truly counts.

DON’T: Assume Everyone Speaks English

In Funchal and major tourist hubs, you’ll find that English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, as you venture into the smaller, more remote villages, this becomes far less common. Don’t let a language barrier deter you. A friendly smile and a bit of patience go a long way. If you need to ask for directions or communicate something specific, having a translation app on your phone can be an invaluable tool. Always begin interactions politely, perhaps by asking “Fala inglês?” (Do you speak English?).

DO: Respect the Slower Pace of Life

One of Madeira’s greatest gifts is its relaxed rhythm. Life here moves at a more deliberate, unhurried pace. Service in a local café might take a little longer, and queues in a village shop might not move with the urgency you’re used to. Instead of feeling impatient, embrace it. This is an invitation to slow down, breathe, and savor the moment. This laid-back atmosphere is an integral part of the island’s identity and a welcome antidote to the rush of modern life. For ideas on how to structure your visit, consider these travel itinerary ideas.

Practicalities: Packing and Safety

DO: Bring Sunscreen and a Hat

The Madeiran sun has a deceptive strength. Situated in the Atlantic, the island receives intense UV rays, even when the sky is overcast or a cool breeze is blowing. Whether you are exploring Madeira’s stunning landscapes or relaxing by a natural pool at sea level, protecting your skin is essential. A high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable items for your packing list to avoid a painful sunburn that could disrupt your holiday.

DON’T: Ignore Ocean Safety

The Atlantic Ocean that sculpts Madeira’s dramatic coastline is as powerful as it is beautiful. Strong currents and powerful waves are common, particularly along the rugged north coast. It is vital to respect the water’s force. Only swim in designated areas, such as protected lidos or the island’s celebrated natural swimming pools. The lava rock pools at Porto Moniz and the tranquil pools at Seixal offer stunning and much safer environments to enjoy the saltwater. For more safety tips for first-time travelers, check our guide.

DO: Carry Some Cash

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Funchal and larger towns, venturing into the island’s smaller villages and rural areas requires a bit of cash. Many charming local cafes, family-run tascas, small shops, and some taxi services operate on a cash-only basis. Having some Euros on hand ensures you won’t miss out on an authentic snack or find yourself in an awkward situation when it’s time to pay. Learn more about currency and payment options in Madeira.

DON’T: Leave Valuables in Your Car

This is standard travel wisdom, but it bears repeating for Madeira’s specific context. Popular trailheads for levada walks and remote scenic viewpoints (miradouros) are prime spots where cars are often left unattended for several hours. To prevent opportunistic theft, avoid leaving any valuables like cameras, wallets, or passports in your vehicle. It’s a simple precaution that ensures your focus remains on the island’s beauty, not on a preventable loss. For more on exploring Funchal and its surroundings safely, see our recommendations.