Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 600 km southwest of Lisbon. Madeira is known for its lush green landscapes, volcanic peaks, and subtropical climate, making it a popular tourist destination. The main island of Madeira offers visitors a range of attractions, such as the picturesque capital city of Funchal, which is known for its historic landmarks, botanical gardens, and traditional markets.
Madeira is also famous for its Levada walks, which follow the network of irrigation canals that traverse the island’s rugged terrain. Visitors can also enjoy the island’s beaches, such as Praia Formosa and Porto Santo, which offer clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere.
Official tourism website: https://visitmadeira.com/en/
Google map of the island of Madeira
The Best Things to See and Do in Madeira
Funchal
Funchal is the capital city of Madeira and a popular tourist destination. The city offers a mix of historic landmarks, botanical gardens, and traditional markets. Funchal’s main attractions include the Sé Cathedral and the Mercado dos Lavradores, a bustling market known for its fresh produce and colourful flower vendors. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s museums, such as the Madeira Story Centre and the CR7 Museum, which is dedicated to soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo.
Pico do Arieiro (mountain peak)
Pico do Arieiro is a mountain peak located in the center of Madeira, accessible by car or hiking trail. The peak offers stunning views of the island, with panoramic vistas of the coastline, forests, and valleys. Visitors can hike to the summit of Pico do Arieiro, which is over 1,800 meters high, or take the cable car to the nearby Monte village. Pico do Arieiro is also famous for its stargazing opportunities, as the peak offers clear skies and minimal light pollution.
Google map 4.9/5
Porto Moniz Natural Lava Pools
Porto Moniz is a coastal village located on the northwest coast of Madeira, known for its natural swimming pools formed by volcanic rocks. The pools offer a unique swimming experience, with clear turquoise waters and stunning views of the sea. Porto Moniz also offers visitors a chance to explore the nearby Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its endemic flora and fauna. Other attractions in Porto Moniz include the Madeira Aquarium and the volcanic caves of São Vicente.
Levada Walks & Madeira Hikes
Levada Walks are a unique attraction in Madeira, offering hikers a chance to explore the island’s rugged terrain along its network of irrigation canals. The Levada walks range in difficulty, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, and offer stunning views of the island’s landscapes, such as lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque valleys. Some of the most popular Levada walks include the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, the Levada do Rabaçal, and the Levada das 25 Fontes.
Pico Ruivo (mountain peak)
Pico Ruivo, at 1,862 metres, is the highest peak in Madeira. It is accessible via marked trails, the most common being from Achada do Teixeira. The summit offers panoramic views of the island’s central mountain range and surrounding valleys. Facilities at the summit include a shelter and viewpoint platform. Weather conditions can be variable, and the route requires proper footwear and preparation. It is a non-technical but physically demanding hike.
Google map 4.8/5
Ponta de São Lourenço
Ponta de São Lourenço is a scenic peninsula located on the eastern tip of Madeira. The area is known for its rugged cliffs and colorful flora, such as the giant fennel and the Madeiran wallflower. Ponta de São Lourenço offers visitors a chance to hike along its trails, which offer stunning views of the sea and coastline. The area also features several beaches, such as Prainha and Cais do Sardinha, which offer secluded swimming spots.
Google map 4.8/5
Cabo Girão Skywalk
Cabo Girão is a cliff located on the southern coast of Madeira, offering stunning views of the sea and coastline. The cliff features a glass viewing platform, the Cabo Girão Skywalk, which offers a thrilling experience for visitors. Cabo Girão is also a popular spot for paragliding, with several companies offering tandem flights. Nearby attractions include the Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village, and the Madeira Wine Company, which offers tours and tastings of Madeira wine.
Google map 4.7/5
Ribeiro Frio and Balcões viewpoint
Ribeiro Frio is a small settlement in Madeira’s central mountains, known for its laurel forest scenery and levada walks. Located at 860 metres altitude, it features a trout hatchery and serves as a starting point for trails such as the Levada do Balcões. The area is part of the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Facilities include a few restaurants and a car park. It is accessible by road from Funchal.
Google map 4.7/5 Miradouro do Ribeiro Frio
Google map 4.7/5 PR11 Levada dos Balcões
Google map 4.7/5 Miradouro dos Balcões
Monte
Monte is a charming village located above Funchal, accessible by scenic cable car or winding road. The village is known for its picturesque church, the Igreja do Monte, which houses the tomb of Emperor Charles I of Austria. Visitors can also enjoy the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a botanical garden featuring exotic plants and sculptures, and the toboggan ride, a unique attraction where passengers ride a wicker sled down the steep streets of Monte.
Google Map (Monte Palace) 4.6/5
Google map (Monte Palace Tropical Gardens) 4.7/5
Madeira Wine
Madeira wine is a fortified wine produced on the island of Madeira, known for its longevity and distinct flavour profile. It is made using grape varieties such as Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, and Malvasia. The wine undergoes a heating and oxidation process, which contributes to its stability and taste. Ranging from dry to sweet, Madeira wine is traditionally served as an aperitif or dessert wine and is central to the island’s export history.
Santana Typical Houses
Santana is a traditional village located on the north coast of Madeira, known for its triangular-shaped houses with thatched roofs. The houses, known as palheiros, offer a glimpse into Madeira’s rural past and are now a popular tourist attraction. Santana also offers visitors a chance to explore the nearby mountains, such as the Pico Ruivo and the Pico do Arieiro. Other attractions in Santana include the Madeira Theme Park and the Santana Forestry Park.
Google map Santana Typical Houses 4.2/5
Go Whale Watching
Madeira is one of the best places in the world to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. There are several companies that offer whale watching tours, which usually last about 3 hours. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to see several species of whales, including sperm whales, humpback whales, and killer whales, as well as dolphins and other marine life. The tours are led by experienced guides who will provide you with information about the whales and their behavior.
Ribeira Brava
Ribeira Brava is a small town located on the southwest coast of Madeira, known for its 16th-century church and traditional market. The town’s main attraction is the Igreja de São Bento, a historic church with an ornate baroque altar. Visitors can also enjoy the town’s market, which offers a range of local products, such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Ribeira Brava is also a popular destination for water sports, such as snorkeling and scuba diving, with several diving schools in the area.
Google map Ribeira Brava town
Google map Praia da Ribeira Brava Beach 4.3/5
Google map Church of São Bento 4.5/5
Curral das Freiras (Nuns’ Refuge)
Curral das Freiras is a secluded village located in a valley surrounded by mountains. The village offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, with lush forests and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can explore the village’s narrow streets and historic buildings, such as the Nossa Senhora do Livramento Church, which features a baroque altar. Curral das Freiras is also a popular spot for hiking, with several trails leading to nearby peaks, such as the Pico do Arieiro and the Pico Ruivo.
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Google map Miradouro da Eira do Serrado (viewpoint) 4.8/5
São Vicente
São Vicente is a town located on the north coast of Madeira, known for its volcanic caves and picturesque waterfalls. The town’s main attraction is the São Vicente Caves and Volcanism Center, which features a multimedia exhibit on the formation of Madeira’s volcanic landscape. Visitors can also explore the nearby waterfalls, such as the Véu da Noiva and the Ribeiro Bonito. São Vicente is also a popular destination for surfing, with several surf schools in the area.
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Google map Capelinha de Nossa Senhora de Fátima Church 4.7/5
Google map Água d’Alto waterfall 4.6/5
Google map São Vicente Caves 4.1/5
Seixal
Seixal is a coastal village on Madeira’s north coast, located within the municipality of Porto Moniz. It is known for its natural black sand beach, volcanic rock pools, and dramatic sea cliffs. The surrounding landscape features terraced hillsides and laurel forest. Seixal offers basic visitor facilities and serves as a quieter alternative to more developed coastal areas. The beach is accessible by road and provides views of the rugged Atlantic shoreline.
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Google map Piscinas Naturais do Seixal (outdoor swimming pools) 4.7/5
Google map Praia de Seixal Beach
Traditional Madeira Cuisine
Madeira is known for its delicious seafood and traditional dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include Espetada, a skewered meat dish, Bolo do Caco, a type of bread that is typically served with garlic butter, and Poncha, a local alcoholic drink made with rum, honey, and lemon juice. Other local specialties include black scabbard fish, grilled limpets, and Madeira wine, which is a fortified wine that is aged for several years in oak barrels. There are many restaurants and cafes throughout Madeira where you can try these dishes, as well as markets and grocery stores where you can buy local ingredients to cook at home.
Fajã dos Padres
Fajã dos Padres is a secluded beach accessible by cable car, located on the south coast of Madeira. The beach offers crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere, with a few beachside restaurants serving fresh seafood. Fajã dos Padres is also home to a vineyard, producing a unique wine made from Malvasia grapes. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and tours of the vineyard, as well as explore the nearby trails, which offer stunning views of the sea and coastline.
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Calheta
Calheta is a town located on the southwest coast of Madeira, known for its golden sandy beach and marina. The town offers a range of water sports activities, such as surfing, windsurfing, and sailing. Calheta’s main attraction is the Praia da Calheta, a man-made beach with calm waters and facilities, such as showers and restaurants. Visitors can also explore the nearby Sugar Cane Museum and the Casa das Mudas, a contemporary art museum.
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Paul da Serra
Paul da Serra is a plateau located in the center of Madeira, offering stunning views of the island’s interior. The plateau is accessible by car and offers several hiking trails, such as the Vereda do Fanal, which leads to the Fanal Forest, and the Levada da Ribeira da Janela, which follows a network of irrigation canals. Paul da Serra is also a popular spot for stargazing, with minimal light pollution and clear skies.
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Ponta do Sol
Ponta do Sol is a small town located on the south coast of Madeira, known for its beach and traditional architecture. The town’s main attraction is the Praia da Ponta do Sol, a pebble beach with calm waters and a few restaurants. Visitors can also explore the town’s historic center, which features traditional houses with colorful doors and windows. Nearby attractions include the Rochão viewpoint and the Levada do Norte trail.
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Fanal & Laurisilva Forest (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
The Laurisilva Forest is a subtropical cloud forest covering much of Madeira’s mountainous interior. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is dominated by laurel trees and supports a high level of endemic plant and animal species. The forest is best explored via the island’s levada trails, which traverse its dense vegetation. It plays a key role in water capture and conservation, contributing to the island’s ecological stability and biodiversity.
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Machico
Machico is a town on Madeira’s eastern coast, historically significant as the island’s first landing site by Portuguese explorers in 1419. It features a sheltered bay with a man-made sandy beach, a marina, and a range of local services. The town includes a historic church and access to nearby levada walks. Machico is reachable by road from Funchal and serves as a quieter base for exploring the island’s eastern region.
Poncha (typical drink)
Poncha is a traditional alcoholic beverage from Madeira, commonly made with aguardente de cana (distilled sugarcane spirit), honey, and lemon juice. Variations may include orange or passion fruit. It is typically mixed using a wooden tool called a mexelote. Poncha is strongly associated with local identity and is widely available in bars across the island, particularly in Câmara de Lobos, where it is considered an essential part of regional drinking culture.
Miradouro da Portela (near Machico) – viewpoint
Miradouro da Portela is a viewpoint located between Porto da Cruz and Machico on Madeira’s east coast. It offers clear views of the Penha d’Águia rock formation and the surrounding coastal landscape. Situated at approximately 670 metres above sea level, the site is accessible by road and includes a small parking area and picnic facilities. It is a popular stop for travellers exploring the island’s eastern highlands and scenic routes.
Google map 4.7/5
Miradouro do Guindaste (Faial) – Observation deck/viewpoint
Miradouro do Guindaste is a coastal viewpoint located near Faial on Madeira’s north coast. It provides elevated views over the Atlantic Ocean, the rugged shoreline, and the Penha d’Águia rock formation. The viewpoint is accessible by road and includes a platform for photography and observation. Popular with visitors for sunrise and sunset, it offers a clear perspective on the island’s volcanic cliffs and natural coastal features without requiring a hike.
Google map 4.8/5
Câmara de Lobos
Câmara de Lobos is a fishing town on Madeira’s south coast, located west of Funchal. It is known for its traditional boats, coastal promenade, and association with Winston Churchill, who painted here in the 1950s. The town centre features narrow streets, local restaurants, and viewpoints overlooking the harbour. Surrounded by terraced hillsides and vineyards, Câmara de Lobos is also a production area for Madeira wine and the traditional drink poncha.
Porto Santo Island
Porto Santo Island is located northeast of Madeira and is part of the Madeira archipelago. Known for its 9-kilometre sandy beach, it contrasts with Madeira’s rocky coastline. The island has a dry climate and a small population, centred in the town of Vila Baleira. Accessible by ferry or flight from Funchal, Porto Santo offers walking trails, historical sites, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for day trips and short stays.
Google map 4.7/5
Attend a Festival
Madeira is known for its vibrant festivals, which take place throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Flower Festival, which is held in April and celebrates the arrival of spring. The festival includes a parade of flower-covered floats, as well as music and dance performances, food stalls, and art exhibitions. Another popular festival is the Atlantic Festival, which takes place in June and features fireworks displays, concerts, and cultural events. The Madeira Wine Festival, which takes place in September, is also a must-see event for wine lovers, with tastings, workshops, and live music performances.
Go Scuba Diving
Madeira has some of the best scuba diving sites in Europe, with clear waters and diverse marine life. There are several dive centers on the island that offer courses and guided dives for all levels of experience. Some of the most popular dive sites include the Garajau Marine Reserve, which is home to a large population of barracuda and rays, and the wreck of the Bowbelle, a cargo ship that sank off the coast of Madeira in 1995. Other popular dive sites include the Deserta Islands, the Porto Santo Marine Reserve, and the Caniçal Caves.