Madeira, Portugal | Complete Travel Guide

Updated in 2025

The ultimate travel guide for Madeira Island in Portugal

After several action-packed Madeira trips it was time to sit down and write this guide. Madeira, what can I say? I have been lucky enough to travel to some special islands in my lifetime and Madeira is right up there with my favourites. My first trip in 2022 remains one of my favourite ever trips, full of everything I love, stunning natural backdrops, hiking, ocean, fresh tasty food, breath taking bends, tropical fruits, I could go on and on… and that is why I keep going back year after year.

Planning a trip to Portugal? You’re in the right place! Welcome to Travel Planning and Itinerary design by Candy. Olá! I’m an independent travel advisor living in Portugal (since 2016). I help people plan their dream trip to Portugal, Spain and Italy. You’re currently reading a post from my collection of travel guides. I also offer personal travel consultation and a bespoke itinerary service.

As always, I don’t rush writing my travel guides. A lot of time and consideration goes into making them and they aren’t like any other you’ll find online. They are written from personal experience, not just regurgitated information you can find anywhere. I hope it can help you plan the very best trip to Madeira. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

WHY MADEIRA?

The island of Madeira is truly unique. Imagine a tropical island mixed with Jurassic park and you’ll have a glimpse of whats on offer. Although Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal and home to the same friendly, welcoming Portuguese I have come to know and love on the mainland, the island has its own distinct vibe that cannot be found elsewhere in the country. 

Traveling to the Azores too?

SÃO MIGUEL TRAVEL GUIDE

PICO TRAVEL GUIDE

WHERE IS MADEIRA?

The largest island in the Macronesia archipelago, Madeira is one of three islands; the other two being Porto Santo and Desertas. Although Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal it is situated on the African continent, close to the canary islands.

HOW TO GET TO MADEIRA  

Madeira is just a short hop from Portugal; a 1h40 hour flight from Lisbon. 3h45 from London and 7h50 from New York. The international airport Santa Cruz is Portugal’s 4th largest. In 2024 two new direct flights to the US were opened, making the journey here even easier.

I always use SkyScanner to check for flights.If you are able to be flexible you’ll find some great value journeys there. A good tip on how to  find the best price is to select an ‘entire month’ when searching; this allows you to pick and choose arrival and departure dates using a traffic light system. 

HOW TO GET AROUND MADEIRA

I strongly recommend getting a hire car for at least some if not all of your trip. Without it your experience of the island will be limited. For me the best activity was the actual driving itself. The roads on Madeira offer breathtaking views and using a car is the best way to explore the island deeper. I’ve written a guide specifically for driving in Madeira.

MADEIRA ROAD TRIP & DRIVING GUIDE

As usual I used Zest to find my car. I’ve been using Zest for many years now and I have them to thank for most of my driving experiences in Europe, but especially in Portugal.

HOW TO HIRE A CAR IN PORTUGAL

If you don’t hire a car you’ll probably want to base yourself in Funchal and take tours out of the city. There is a great airport shuttle that runs approximately every hour and drops off at more than a dozen stops in the Funchal area.

BEST ROAD TRIPS PORTUGAL

WHEN TO VISIT MADEIRA

Like much of Europe, the peak season is summer so Portugal (including Madeira) is busiest in July and August school holidays – I would avoid these months if possible. Shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October) are a great time to visit the island but honestly Madeira really is one of those places you can travel to year round. If you plan on hiking and getting up in the mountains then spring or autumn is best. New Years Eve is a popular time of year so book in advance if you are traveling over this period.

WEATHER IN MADEIRA

The weather in Madeira is, ever-changing but generally mild year round and even in the depths of winter Funchal doesn’t drop below 13 or so. It can be quite humid; expect a mix of hot sunshine and rain showers, and maybe even the odd storm blowing through. The weather changes depending on where (or how high up) you are on the island so if you’re stuck in the rain don’t assume the whole island is the stuck in the same rain. The south coast is usually sunnier than the north coast. The peaks are naturally very different to the coast and more prone to unstable weather. Always carry layers with you.

HOW TO LONG TO STAY IN MADEIRA

The longer the better. Madeira is one of those places you can stay for a month and still not see and do everything. There is so much to see and do that you can fill up your time no matter how long you stay. If it is your first trip a night or two is not enough, even for Funchal. Give Madeira at least 5 nights of your time, but if you have the luxury of more time then a week or 10 days would be ideal. I’ve amounted 3 weeks of travel time in Madeira and I still have so much to see and do. It’s impossible to get bored and I’ll be taking trips here every year for a long time to come. Don’t be tempted to come for one or two nights – it’s not worth it! It isn’t a tick box destination, it’s an island to get lost in nature and that takes time.

WHERE TO STAY IN MADEIRA

Most people flock to Funchal but although the capital is worth spending time in, it’s got nothing on some of the other spots on the island. Madeira’s main draw is its outstanding natural beauty. If you are here for that then it makes sense to stay amongst it.

A few tips for booking accommodation…

Be open-minded. As soon as you venture away from the bright lights on Funchal accommodation options become varied. There are some great boutique hotels (like Casa da Piedade in São Vicente) and cosy guesthouses to be found but some of the apartments/houses I have found during my search and travels are unbeatable in terms of location and view. If you are prepared to loose a little bit of luxury and style you will be rewarded with authentic stays and the best views on the island. Like this 4 bedroom villa in Curral das Freiras I stayed in.

If you have more than 4 nights consider splitting your time in a few different locations on the island. Try one coastal and one in the mountains.

Work with a travel planner to save time and make the most out of your trip. I work with couples and families to build Portugal trips that align with your preferences and travel style. I create highly tailored itineraries full to the brim with authentic experiences and activities.

Book in advance. Madeira is becoming more and more popular and while it’s unlikely you’ll be stuck without anything, options do dwindle the closer you get to the time.

I find BookingCom has the most varied options but you do need to spend time to sift through. Airbnb also has some good properties but not as many. If you are able to go to the property direct this is helpful for them since they pay a high commission to platforms such as bookingCom.

Here are a few locations to consider when staying in Madeira.

FUNCHAL

The obvious and easiest choice is Madeira’s capital – Funchal. It’s only 40 mins from the airport and has the biggest choice of accommodation on the island. This is the best place to stay if you don’t have a car as most tours depart from here. I’ve included links for places I have personally stayed.

If you are looking for a luxury stay the Funchal should be your base. Savoy Palace and The Reserve are head and shoulders above the other luxury hotels and resorts on the island.

SÃO VICENTE

This small but stunning valley is located on the north coast. It’s one of my favourite locations to get close to nature in Madeira. You’ll find a mix of mountains and sea in close proximity, plus dramatic views, epic waterfalls, Seixal sea pool and the natural pools of Porto Moniz.

There are lots of great apartments in São Vicente but I want to mention this small hotel Casa da Piedade which is set in the most beautiful tropical gardens. It was so good the first time I went back and stayed again. The rooms are spacious and well decorated and an excellent traditional breakfast is included. The pool and garden are a welcoming sight after a day on the road or a long hike. If you’re looking for a day or two to chill this is the place for you. It is also excellent value.

Garden’s Guest House This guest house is great value and includes a kitchen if you want to cook for a change. Balcony rooms have great views out towards to ocean.

MADALENA DO MAR

This cute village on the sea is a true hidden gem. Just a 10 minute drive from the popular digital nomad town of Porta do Sol but with its own local charm and authentic feel. The village is surrounded by banana palms making it feel even more tropical than Madeira already does.

I stayed in a small duplex which is no longer available but you can find more stays here.

If you are traveling with a small group, kids or you just like a lot of space I found this gorgeous house Casa da Madalena do Mar with unbeatable sea views.

CURRAL DAS FREIRAS

What a gem! Also known as Valley of the nuns, this town is smack bang in the middle of Madeira surrounded by the highest peaks of the island. Curral das Freiras is not only home to a dramatic mountain landscape but also some super authentic tascas and some great bars too. The town is also the start/end point of some epic hiking trails. There aren’t tonnes of accommodation options available and be prepared for traditional style homes but I definitely recommend staying here for a night or two. I stayed in this 4 bedroom villa, if you can get past the granny decor you will be rewarded with three terraces and uninterrupted mountain views.

CALHETA

Now, Calheta isn’t one of my top choices. It is more of a resort area with little to actually see/do right in the town. However it is in a great location for exploring the south coast and both Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar are close by.

SANTANA

I stayed in a “traditional” house in Santana which is no longer available. This is a great location for hiking though so consider searching for some other accommodation options in the area such as this gorgeous bed & breakfast with pool. Asides from proximity to hikes there isn’t much else in Santana.

CAMPING IN MADEIRA

A true highlight was spending a few nights wild camping in Madeira’s natural beauty and if you have the time and are able to bring or hire the equipment – then do it!

There are a dozen or so legal wild camping spots on Madeira but you must apply for a permit in advance (it’s free and easy) . I can personally recommend Chão das Feiteiras (great views of the peaks and friendly sheep) and Chão dos Louros (more sheltered from the elements and with plenty of parking). There are a limited number of spots at São Lourenço too – camping here and spending sunrise and sunset here would be a truly special experience.

WHAT TO SEE + DO IN MADEIRA

The island is ALL about experiences so I have written a specific guide for this.

BEST EXPERIENCES IN MADEIRA

There is so much to see, do and experience in Madeira that it’s almost impossible to get it all done in one trip but these were my true highlights.

HIKE A PEAK (OR TWO)

Madeira has some of the most dramatic backdrops I’ve come across in my years of travel. Whether you’re a hiking addict or new to the activity you’ll be blown away  by the trails in Madeira. The most popular tail is the PR1 between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo. There are several ways to do this hike. PR1 is the ongest, most difficult and involves at 12km out-and-back hike from pico Areeiro. This hike is extremely popular. A shorter alternative is the PR1.2.
To check if the trail you want to hike has any current restrictions, go to the Visit Madeira website.

Hiking in Madeira – the new rules. To combat overcrowding the regional government has implemented a booking system. There are a limited number of slots available on each trail each day and you now have to choose your day and pay in advance using the SIMplifica website. There is a helpful video (in English and Portuguese) explaining exactly how to do this. This applies to the following trails : 

• PR1 Areeiro Trail
• PR1.1 Island Path
• PR1.2 Pico Ruivo Trail
• PR1.3 Encumeada Trail
• PR2 Urzal Trail
• PR5 Vereda das Funduras
• PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes
• PR6.1 Levada do Risco
• PR6.2 Levada do Alecrim
• PR6.3 Lagoa do Vento Trail
• PR6.4 Levada Velha do Rabaçal
• PR6.5 Pico Fernandes Trail
• PR6.6 Horse Tunnel Trail
• PR6.7 Rabaçal Loading Chamber Trail
• PR6.8 Levada do Paul II
• PR7 Levada do Moinho
• PR8 Ponta de S. Lourenço Trail
• PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde
• PR9.1 Levada do Caldeirão Verde 
• PR10 Levada do Furado
• PR11 Balcony Path
• PR12 Royal Road of Encumeada
• PR13 Fanal Trail
• PR13.1 Straw Path Load
• PR14 Levada dos Cedros
• PR15 Ribeira da Janela Trail
• PR16 Levada Fajã do Rodrigues
• PR17 Pinnacle and Leaf Trail
• PR18 King’s Canal
• PR19 Royal Road of Paul do Mar
• PR20 Vereda do Jardim do Mar
• PR21 Northern Road
• PR22 Vereda do Chão dos Louros
• PR27 Plateau Glacier
• PR28 Levada da Rocha Vermelha

I understand that booking and paying for access to nature can feel frustrating but in this case I support it 100%. As visitors, tourists, hikers and humans we need to take responsibility for our impact. If the trails continued running as they were before with no cap on visitor numbers, not only would it become dangerous but there would be no trails left to enjoy. Nature has to come first. Please respect the rules.

Looking for something more off the (quite literally) beaten path?

From Curral das Freiras you can take the Vereda das Fajã Escura trail to Relvinhas and then (if energy allows) join the Encumeada trail to the top of Pico Grande. this trail is not for the faint hearted. It isn’t technical but there are some narrow sections with steep drops and no railings so hike with caution.

TAKE A DIP IN THE ATLANTIC

Another hike with jaw dropping views to consider is the PR8. Not only does this 14km (out and back) hike offer stunning views across Madeira but a couple of unspoilt beaches too. Unlike the mainland of Portugal the ocean here is warm and if you bring your googles you may even see a few tropical fish. There is a great cafe offering drinks and snacks at the midway point.

WILD CAMP

This is such a unique experience that I highly recommend spending at least a night of your trip under the stars. Wild camping is usually illegal in Portugal but Madeira offers a limited amount of wild camping spots at designated areas on the island.  You can secure a permit here.

DRINK A PONCHA

If you’ve read even one guide on madeira you have probably noticed the name Poncha pop up once or twice. This kick-ass drink can be found across the island and is made up of sugar cane brandy and fresh juice (traditionally lemon). Poncha is notoriously strong so beware of the taster flights you can find in Funchal. You have been warned! Find a bar who will make it fresh in front of you for the full experience. My favourite Poncha experience was at Snack Bar Restaurante Boca Da Encumeada. 

SWIM IN THE NATURAL POOLS OF PORTO MONIZ

Another popular experience in Madeira that you should definitely jump into. I was a little worried about visiting Porto Moniz as from everything I read it was very busy and a stop off for lots of tours. When I arrived my fears were confirmed – it was so busy, but much to my surprise I had a brilliant afternoon despite the crowds. The pools are such a unique shape that there are plenty of little cubby holes and crevices. I had no problem finding a secluded spot to swim in. The atmosphere was actually really fun. Lots of happy families plunging in and out of the (warm!) pools so I would definitely recommend this if you have kids too. I didn’t get to test my theory because I ran out of time but I bet if you arrived for sunrise you’d have this natural park to yourself.  One more thing, if you take the short walk to the port you may be able to catch a glimpse of fisherman unloading their haul of scabbard fish – amazing!

DRIVE THE ISLAND

The best way to see this island is on your own wheels. The driving is utterly breathtaking and you’ll be able to discover corners most tourists will never see. I definitely recommend hiring a car for at least a day or two. Most of my favourite experiences were thanks to the flexibility I had from my hire car.  Pin your most-wanted on GoogleMaps but don’t be afraid to go off-course too. One thing to keep in mind, some roads (especially sections of the ring road) may be closed due to weather/other dangers. Please respect these closures for your own and other’s safety, and for the protection of this beautiful island.

You may notice I didn’t mention the famous toboggan run in Funchal. I chose not to do this activity while I was there because personally I think it’s overpriced and just a touch too touristy for me. If I wasn’t solo then I think I would have been happy to shell out for the experience. The information is super easy to find online. Go forth and enjoy!

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK IN MADEIRA

Portugal is home to some of the tastiest fish and meat dishes you’ll find on planet earth and let’s not forget the freshly baked goods either. Madeira is no exception. What I loved about this island is that there are many specialities that you cannot find on the mainland. Through travel in Madeira my knowledge of Portuguese cuisine has grown a little deeper. Here are just a few of the many delicious dishes and drinks you need to try in Madeira.

LAPAS (limpets)
Limpets. Yes, really. Probably not the sort of thing you imagine eating but these amazing gifts from the sea are a delicious mix between a clam and a scallop. They taste even better washed down with a glass of white wine next to the sea at A Taberna Madalena do Mar mentioned below.

ESPADA PRETO (black scabbard fish)
Esapada preto could easily earn the title “ugliest fish in the ocean” but these menacing looking creatures are surprisingly tasty. Traditionally eaten with bananas so look out for this dish on the menu.  

BOLO DE CACO
The closest bread product I can compare this too is an English muffin. These traditional rolls are usually served toasted with homemade garlic butter. You can find them all over the island and you absolutely must order as many as possible. I’ve tried but failed to find anywhere on the mainland that sells these as good as in Madeira.

SOPA DA TOMATE
There is something so comforting about tomato soup in the mountains and Madeira do it exceptionally well. Usually served hot with an egg and bolo de Caco.

BOLO DE MEL

This sweet honey cake is reminiscent of a Christmas cake. Islander’s having been making the cake from local sugarcane for centuries.

NIKITA
Beer mixed with pineapple ice cream. Say whaaaat?! Yes it is as wonderful as it sounds. Sweet, creamy and perfect on a hot day. This creation is officially a top 5 drink for me. 

BEST RESTAURANTS AND BARS IN MADEIRA

I’ll start by saying this is not a comprehensive guide of restaurants in Madeira because there are simply too many to share. Also I think when it comes to restaurants we all have to be a little bit braver and seek out some hidden gems. Here are a few of my favourites I found while on the road…

Taberna Boca da Encumeada (Encumeada)
I accidentally found this when searching for my wild camp spot. It has a few outdoor tables (that were shrouded in mist when i arrived giving it a very eerie but cool vibe) and a bar with a tonne of character

A Taberna Madalena do Mar (Madalena do Mar) 
This beachside shack gave me all the Thai vibes. Plastic chairs right on the rocks, excellent lapas and cheap wine! Take me back now!  

Bar Dona Maria (Madalena do Mar)
A typical Portuguese snack bar. Uber cheap, drink with the locals, and do it with a view of the black sand beach and dramatic cliffs. Perfeito!

Gato Legal Coffee (Ponta do Pargo)
I’m a coffee snob. While I happily knock back Portuguese coffee in espresso form I’m a sucker for specialty coffee. After a bit of research I found Gato Legal and it perked me right up. 

Mountain Spot cafe (Achada do Teixeira)
Kind of like you just arrived at a chalet in the Alps, except this is Portugal and you’re about to hike to the highest peak on the island. Great spot to shelter and fill up on some warm grub before or after you hit the trail. This is also the parking spot for the start of PR1.2.

Calhau snack bar (Achadas da Cruz)
Nothing particularly spectacular about the food if I’m being honest, but the view? Oh my. Lovely spot for some lunch and a few beers. Don’t forget to ride the cable car!

Quinta do Barbusano (São Vincente)
Mentioned in my ‘best experiences in Madeira guide’ this winery is perched high above São Vincente and has a spectacular vista to sip wine in front of. I did a brilliant wine tasting here but they also have a great restaurant. Book in advance.

Maktub (Paul do Mar)
There’s a young crowd here and it’s a favourite hangout for digital nomads who reside in nearby Porta do sol so bare that in mind, but it is also a fantastic sunset spot. This stretch of coast really cops the sun so it’s a great afternoon spot for a few drinks on the beach. The cocktail menu is colouful and tasty but don’t expect strong.

Snack Bar As Pedras (Ponta Delgada)
Tucked away in Ponta Delgada away from the usual tourist trail As Pedras was a great surpise. The simple restaurant offers just a few dishes (meat or fish), cheap wine and a sea view that will make you want to stay for a homemade poncha.

Okay, how are we feeling? Have you got at least a small idea of how amazing Madeira is? I hope so! This guide is designed to help you start planning the perfect trip to Madeira but don’t stop here. If you’d like some help planning an action packed but realistic itinerary book a travel planning call and we’ll get you on the road and make sure you have a trip of a lifetime. 

I hope you found this Madeira guide helpful. Don’t forget to forge your own path too and find your own hidden treasures around the island. Happy adventuring!

All photos are taken by me. Please do not use without credit and a link to this page.