Things to Do in Madeira: A Complete Guide to Portugal's Atlantic Gem

This complete guide covers the best things to do in Madeira, Whether you are planning a short escape or a longer Madeira holiday. It includes prices, hidden gems, booking tips, and insider recommendations to help you plan the perfect trip.

Madeira Island, an autonomous region of Portugal located in the Atlantic Ocean, is one of Europe’s most diverse and breathtaking travel destinations.

Known for its dramatic cliffs, lush green mountains, volcanic coastline, and mild year round climate, Madeira offers unforgettable experiences for adventure seekers, nature lovers, food enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike.

Want to get a better feel for the island before planning your adventures? Read my Discover the Magic of Portugal’s Island of Eternal Spring article, where I explore Madeira’s landscapes, charming villages, culture and unique atmosphere.

💡Pro Tips:

Make sure you book your rental car in advance through DiscoverCars as you will need to have a car, in order to explore the island, there are so many hiden gems and cannot be reached by public transportation.

*In case your traveling outside of the EU and need internet package and stay in touch with family and friends, reserve your E-Sim now via YESIM.

EasyJet is one of the most frequent airlines which are flying to Madeira. Not every airline and not every pilot can just fly to Madeira, they have to be highly trained to land at the airport. We have booked our flight with EasyJet and it was a perfect landing. Book your flight too with EasyJet HERE.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Madeira?

Madeira is a year round destination thanks to its mild climate. However, some periods stand out:

– Spring (April–May): Perfect weather and the Flower Festival

– Summer (June–September): Ideal for swimming and boat trips

– New Year’s Eve: One of the world’s most spectacular fireworks displays, lighting up Funchal’s harbor on December 31st

Explore the Famous Levada Walks in Madeira

One of the most iconic and unique things to do in Madeira is hiking along the levada walks. Levadas are historic irrigation channels built to transport water from the rainy north of the island to the drier south.

Today, they form an extensive network of walking trails that guide visitors through forests, valleys, tunnels, and waterfalls, making Madeira one of the best hiking destinations in Europe.

PR6 – 25 Fontes Hike & Levada do Risco

The PR6 25 Fontes hike is one of the most popular levada walks in Madeira. Starting in Rabaçal, this trail leads you to a beautiful lagoon fed by 25 small waterfalls. Nearby, the Levada do Risco branches off toward an impressive vertical waterfall cascading down a steep cliff.

– Difficulty: Moderate

– Distance: Approximately 9 km round trip

– Pro Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds

Levada do Caldeirão Verde (Parque Florestal das Queimadas)

The Caldeirão Verde levada begins at Parque Florestal das Queimadas in Santana. This scenic route passes through tunnels, dense forest, and dramatic cliffs before reaching the powerful Caldeirão Verde waterfall.

– Difficulty: Moderate

– Distance: Approx. 13 km round trip

– What to bring: Hat, water, snacks, sun crean use your smart phone lumus (flashlight) for tunnels and to take amazing pictuires and of course a good mode to hike.

This hike is one of the most rewarding experiences in Madeira Island and a favorite among photographers.

Hike Madeira’s Highest Peaks

Hiking Madeira’s mountain trails offers some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe. The most famous route is the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike, connecting Madeira’s third highest peak to its highest.

– Pico do Arieiro: 1,818 m

– Pico Ruivo: 1,862 m

This challenging hike features narrow ridges, stone staircases, tunnels, and breathtaking views above the clouds. On clear days, you can see across the island from north to south.

– Difficulty: Challenging

– Best time: Sunrise or early morning

– Tip: Always check weather conditions before hiking

Ponta de São Lourenço (The Dragon Tail Hike)

Another spectacular hiking experience in Madeira is Ponta de São Lourenço, often called the “Dragon Tail” due to its dramatic shape stretching into the Atlantic Ocean. Located on the easternmost tip of Madeira, this hike offers a completely different landscape compared to the green interior of the island.

The terrain here is dry, rugged, and wild, with volcanic rock formations, steep cliffs, and uninterrupted ocean views on both sides. The contrasting colors of deep blue sea, red-brown rocks, and sparse vegetation make this one of the most photogenic hikes in Madeira.

– Distance: Approx. 7 km round trip

– Difficulty: Between moderate to challenging in case you decide to climb the last peak in order to see the view, but it is worth it.

– Location: Caniçal

– Best time: Morning or late afternoon

💡 Pro tip: Cool Down in a Hidden Bay: After the tiring walk in the sun, hikers are rewarded with access to a small rocky bay near the end of the trail, where you can jump into crystal clear water for a refreshing swim, the perfect ending to this coastal adventure.

Visit the Fanal Forest (Laurisilva UNESCO World Heritage Site)

The Fanal Forest, part of Madeira’s Laurisilva UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most magical places on the island. Located on the Paul da Serra plateau, Fanal is famous for its ancient laurel trees, many over 600 years old.

Often covered in fog and mist, the forest creates a mystical, almost fairytale like atmosphere, especially early in the morning or late afternoon. Cows grazing freely among the trees add to the surreal scenery, making this a must visit spot for photographers and nature lovers.

Hidding Gems:

– Garganta Funda Waterfall: A powerful waterfall near Ponta do Pargo that drops directly toward the ocean, especially impressive after rainfall.

– Ribeira da Janela: Located on the north coast, Ribeira da Janela is known for its dramatic volcanic rock formations rising from the sea.

– Achadas da Cruz Cable Car: One of the steepest cable cars in Europe, descending to a remote coastal area of farmland and ocean cliffs.

– PR18 Levada do Rei: Less crowded than 25 Fontes, this levada offers lush forest, waterfalls, and wildlife without heavy foot traffic.

– Ribeiro Frio: offers vibrant scenery viewpoint and beautiful hiking ways. It is considered to be a great starting point to discover the green slopes of the north coast. One of the hiking trails is: PR11 Levada dos Balcões

Ride the Funchal Cable Car

The Funchal Cable Car is one of the most popular attractions in Madeira. It connects Funchal Old Town (Zona Velha) with Monte, offering stunning panoramic views over the city, harbor, and Atlantic Ocean.

– Location: Cable Car Station, Funchal Old Town

– Duration: Approx. 15 minutes

– Price: One way: 12 €, Return ticket: 18 €

– Where to buy: On site or official cable car website

This ride is a perfect introduction to Funchal and one of the top things to do in Madeira Island.

Monte Toboggan Ride: A Traditional Madeira Experience

Once you go out from the cable car, you can fin on the left hand side the Monte Toboggan Ride, which is a unique cultural attraction dating back to the 19th century. Starting in Monte, near the Church of Our Lady of Monte, riders sit in wicker sleds guided by two local “carreiros” dressed in traditional white clothing and straw hats.

– Location: Monte, Funchal

– Distance: Approx. 2 km downhill

– Price: 1 person: 27,50 €, 2 people: 35 €, 3 people: 52,50 €

– Tip: Bring cash and be prepared to walk back around 20 minutes to the city or in case you would like to take a taxi, planty of them are there waiting to take you back to the city.

– Booking: Only onsite

Enjoy the Ocean and Coastline

Whale and Dolphin Watching in Madeira

Madeira is one of Europe’s best destinations for whale and dolphin watching, thanks to deep waters close to shore.

– Departure points: Funchal Marina, Calheta

– Price: Approx. 50 € – 65 € per adult

– Where to book: at the hotel desks or on Trip Advisor and booking.com

Both Trip Advisor and Booking.com offering other sea attractions like boat tours along Madeira’s coastline allow you to explore sea caves, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves.

Swim in Natural Lava Pools

Madeira’s volcanic landscape has created stunning natural lava pools, offering safe and scenic swimming experiences.

Porto Moniz Natural Pools

Located on the north coast, Porto Moniz features the island’s most famous lava pools.

– Entrance fee: 3 €, the rent a locker will be with additional fee of 5 €

– Facilities: Changing rooms, showers, lifeguards

Seixal Natural Pools

For a quieter and more natural experience, visit the lava pools in Seixal, surrounded by mountains and black sand. Swimming here is one of the most refreshing things to do in Madeira Island.

Madeira’s dramatic cliffs, volcanic coastline and mountain landscapes are the result of millions of years of geological activity. If you’re curious about how this extraordinary island was formed, discover its fascinating story in Madeira Island: A Journey Through Time and Geological Evolution.

Relax on Madeira’s Beaches

Although Madeira is not known for long sandy beaches, it offers diverse coastal spots:

– Praia Formosa (Funchal): Pebble beach with restaurants and bars

– Calheta Beach: Golden imported sand, ideal for swimming

– Seixal Beach: Black sand beach with dramatic scenery

💡 Top Tip: Praia de Machico, is one of the best beaches in Madeira, featuring golden sand, calm waters, and excellent facilities.

• Prainha: A small black sand beach near Ponta de São Lourenço.

Discover Madeira Wine

Madeira wine is world famous for its longevity and unique production process involving heat and oxidation. This fortified wine ranges from dry to sweet and can last for decades once opened.

Visitors can explore wine lodges in Funchal and learn about grape varieties such as Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, and Malvasia. Wine tasting is a must do cultural experience during any Madeira holiday.

Visit Charming Villages and Scenic Viewpoints in Madeira

Exploring Madeira’s villages and viewpoints is one of the best ways to experience the island’s authentic character.

– Câmara de Lobos: A picturesque fishing village near Funchal, famous for colorful boats and traditional poncha bars.

– Santana: Known for its traditional triangular houses, offering insight into Madeira’s rural heritage.

– Ponta do Pargo: Located on the far western tip of Madeira, home to dramatic cliffs and for many lizards. It is considered for one of the best sunset viewpoints on the island.

– Calheta: One of the sunniest regions in Madeira, featuring a golden sand beach, marina, and access to levada walks and boat tours.

– Madalena do Mar: A peaceful coastal village surrounded by banana plantations, ideal for slow travel and seaside walks.

– Ponta do Sol: Often described as the sunniest village in Madeira, popular for sunsets, cafés, and creative energy.

– Cabo Girão Skywalk: At 580 meters high, Cabo Girão is one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, featuring a glass platform with breathtaking views over the Atlantic coastline.

Recommended restaurants, cafe and winaries in Madeira:

Madeira’s culinary traditions are an essential part of experiencing the island. From its famous fortified wines and traditional dishes to banana plantations and local poncha, there’s so much to discover. For a deeper look, explore my guide to Madeira Food, Wine & Agriculture.

Restaurants:

– Restaurante Terreiro Concept: Modern Madeiran cuisine

– Restaurante Poncha da Imperatriz – Wine & Food: Traditional flavors and poncha

– Avista Restaurant: Fine dining with ocean views, offers 2 different cusines: Asian fusion or Mediterranean- Basalto Restaurante: Contemporary volcanic inspired cuisine

– Barreirinha Bar Café: Ideal for seafood and sunset dining

– KAMPO by Chef Júlio Pereira: Offers meet and made Mediterranean cusinies

– Restaurante Caravela: Meet and Madeiran cuisine

Winaries:

– Quinta do Barbusano Winary: Offers a wine tasting of 6 different Madeira wines

– Terrabona Wine Family: Offers wine tasting and private tours

– Barbeito: Offers 2 different tours between 7 or 4 wine tasting

– Henriques & Henriques: Offers wine tours, wine tasting and even accommodation

– H.M. Borges : Offers 3 different wine tours and no reservation is needed for the wine tasting room

Cafes and bakeries:

– Padaria Pastelaria Mariazinha

– **Greenhouse Coffee Roasters **

– Land Food & Coffee

– Prima Caju

– Rodripan

– Pastelaria Ravioli

– Le Dolci Pastelaria

– Nata7 – Fernão Ornelas

For more selection of restaurants and wineries, check out this guide of Madeira Wines Route.

For choosing your beautiful accommodation check out my hotel recommendations: the Hyatt Ziva Madeira, the Quinta Funchal Gardens, and the Savoy Palace

Final Thoughts: Why Madeira Should Be on Your Travel List?

From levada walks and mountain hikes to lava pools, whale watching, charming villages, and unforgettable food, the things to do in Madeira are as diverse as the island itself. Whether you seek adventure, culture, or natural beauty, Madeira Island delivers an experience that stays with you long after you leave.

Where To Stay

Whether you are after a luxury all-inclusive escape, a grand design hotel or a quiet adults-only retreat, Madeira delivers. These are the three hotels I have personally reviewed:

– Hyatt Ziva Madeira – a luxury all-inclusive stay above the ocean

– Savoy Palace – a grand design hotel right on Funchal's promenade

– Quinta Funchal Gardens - Adults Only – a peaceful adults-only retreat in Funchal

You can find all of my Madeira hotel reviews and stories on the Madeira destination page.