Unearth the magic of Madeira! Dive into our curated guide of the most captivating Things to Do in Madeira. From levada walks to sampling exotic wines, embark on an unforgettable journey through this Atlantic gem.
Nestled in the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, the enchanting island of Madeira stands as a true gem of Portugal. This lush, subtropical paradise is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local traditions.
Relaxing in the Beautiful Gardens and Parks
Jardim Botânico da Madeira
Explore the stunning Jardim Botânico da Madeira, a sprawling botanical garden showcasing a diverse array of exotic plant species from around the world, as well as many endemic Madeiran flora.
Monte Palace Tropical Garden
The Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a true oasis of serenity, featuring tranquil ponds, vibrant flower beds, and a collection of sculptures and azulejo tiles that reflect Madeira’s rich cultural heritage.
Parque Ecológico do Funchal
Nestled in the hills above Funchal, the Parque Ecológico do Funchal offers a peaceful escape, with hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city and the surrounding coastline.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Madeira
Levada Walks
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Madeira’s intricate network of levadas, or irrigation channels, offers some of the most scenic and diverse hiking opportunities in the world. These well-maintained trails wind through the island’s lush forests, offering breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls, deep ravines, and towering peaks.
Pico do Arieiro
Reaching an impressive height of 1,818 meters, Pico do Arieiro is the third-highest peak in Madeira and a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The panoramic views from the summit are simply awe-inspiring, stretching across the island’s dramatic landscapes.
Laurisilva Forest
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Laurisilva Forest is a primaeval laurel forest that covers a significant portion of Madeira. Exploring this ancient, verdant landscape is like stepping back in time, with towering trees, lush ferns, and a serene, otherworldly atmosphere.
Hiking and Trekking in Madeira
Pico Ruivo
Ascending to the highest point on the island at 1,862 meters, the Pico Ruivo hike is a challenging but rewarding experience. The trail takes you through stunning landscapes, including the otherworldly Balcões viewpoint and the unique Vereda do Areeiro path.
Ribeiro Frio to Portela
This moderate hike offers a delightful blend of natural wonders, including cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and panoramic vistas. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot a variety of endemic Madeiran flora and fauna.
Ponta de São Lourenço
The easternmost point of Madeira, Ponta de São Lourenço is a dramatic, windswept peninsula with stunning coastal trails. The hike offers breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and the neighbouring Desertas Islands.
Water Activities in Madeira
Whale and Dolphin Watching
Madeira is an excellent destination for whale and dolphin watching, with numerous species calling the surrounding waters home. Embark on a boat tour and witness the graceful movements of these majestic marine creatures.
Scuba Diving
The clear, warm waters surrounding Madeira provide an exceptional scuba diving experience. Explore vibrant underwater landscapes, encounter a diverse array of marine life, and discover the island’s volcanic origins.
Surfing
With its consistent waves and mild climate, Madeira has become a popular destination for surfers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you’ll find plenty of excellent surfing spots along the island’s coastline.
Discovering the Historical Sites of Madeira
Quinta das Cruzes Museum
This stunning 15th-century manor house showcases the island’s rich cultural heritage, with exhibits highlighting Madeira’s history, art, and traditions.
Sé Cathedral
The imposing Sé Cathedral, a stunning example of Manueline architecture, stands as a testament to Madeira’s religious history. Admire the intricately carved details and the impressive carved wooden ceiling.
Pico do Castelo
Perched atop a dramatic volcanic peak, the Pico do Castelo offers breathtaking views and the remains of a 15th-century fortress, providing a glimpse into Madeira’s military past.
Exploring the Capital City, Funchal
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Old Town
Stroll through the charming streets of Funchal’s Old Town, where you’ll find colourful buildings, quaint shops, and traditional restaurants serving up delectable Madeiran cuisine.
Mercado dos Lavradores
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Mercado dos Lavradores, Funchal’s bustling farmer’s market. Browse the stalls brimming with locally grown produce, handicrafts, and traditional Madeiran delicacies.
Blandy’s Wine Lodge
Discover the rich history and exquisite flavours of Madeira’s renowned fortified wines at Blandy’s Wine Lodge. Enjoy a guided tour and tasting, and learn about the island’s winemaking traditions.
Trying Traditional Madeiran Cuisine
Espada com Banana
This iconic Madeiran dish features the local black scabbardfish, known as Espada, served with fried banana. The unique combination of sweet and savoury flavours is a true delight.
Bolo de Mel
Madeira’s traditional honey cake, or bolo de mel, is a must-try. This dense, flavorful cake is made with local honey, spices, and nuts, and is a beloved part of the island’s culinary heritage.
Poncha
No visit to Madeira is complete without sampling the island’s signature cocktail, the poncha. This refreshing blend of rum, honey, and citrus is a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Visiting the Local Markets and Shops
Mercado dos Lavradores
In addition to its vibrant atmosphere, the Mercado dos Lavradores is a hub for local artisans and craftspeople, offering a wide range of handmade Madeiran products, from pottery to woven baskets.
Rua de Santa Maria
Stroll along the charming Rua de Santa Maria in Funchal’s Old Town, where you’ll find a delightful array of local shops, galleries, and boutiques showcasing Madeiran art, textiles, and handicrafts.
Bordal Embroidery Shop
Discover the intricate art of Madeiran embroidery at the Bordal Embroidery Shop, where you can learn about the history of this tradition and purchase exquisite handmade pieces.
Enjoying the Vibrant Nightlife in Madeira
Zona Velha
Funchal’s historic Zona Velha district comes alive at night, with a lively selection of bars, pubs, and nightclubs catering to a diverse crowd of locals and visitors.
Lido Promenade
Along the Lido Promenade in Funchal, you’ll find a vibrant nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Wine Bars
Madeira’s rich winemaking heritage is celebrated in the island’s many cosy wine bars, where you can sample a wide variety of the region’s renowned fortified wines in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.
Exploring the Surrounding Islands
Porto Santo
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Accessible by ferry from Funchal, the island of Porto Santo boasts a stunning, 9-kilometer-long golden sand beach, as well as a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to golfing.
Desertas Islands
Just off the southeastern coast of Madeira, the Desertas Islands are a protected nature reserve, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the rare Desertas petrel and the endangered Mediterranean monk seal.
Selvagem Islands
The remote Selvagem Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, are a haven for seabirds and other wildlife. Visitors can take boat tours to catch a glimpse of these untouched natural wonders.
Experiencing the Unique Festivals and Events
Madeira Flower Festival
Held annually in the spring, the Madeira Flower Festival is a vibrant celebration of the island’s lush botanical diversity, featuring elaborate flower-themed parades, displays, and cultural performances.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Madeira is renowned for its spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display, which transforms the Funchal harbour into a dazzling, colourful spectacle that can be seen from miles away.
Madeira Wine Festival
Each September, the Madeira Wine Festival pays tribute to the island’s winemaking heritage, with tastings, traditional music and dance, and a lively celebration of Madeiran culture.
Trying Out the Local Wines and Wineries
Quinta da Bela Vista
Explore the picturesque vineyards and charming winery of Quinta da Bela Vista, where you can learn about the island’s winemaking traditions and sample a variety of Madeiran vintages.
Madeira Wine Company
The Madeira Wine Company, one of the island’s oldest and most prestigious wine producers, offers visitors the opportunity to delve into the history and production process of Madeira’s unique wines.
Exploring the Art and Culture of Madeira
Museu de Arte Contemporânea
Discover the vibrant contemporary art scene of Madeira at the Museu de Arte Contemporânea, which showcases the works of both local and international artists.
Centro de Artes e Ofícios da Madeira
Immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage of Madeira at the Centro de Artes e Ofícios da Madeira, where you can witness traditional craftsmanship, such as embroidery, pottery, and woodcarving.
Sacred Art Museum
The Sacred Art Museum in Funchal houses an impressive collection of religious art and artefacts, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions.
Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to the enchanting island of Madeira? and experience the breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality that this hidden gem of Portugal has to offer.
