Madeira holidays

Essential information for your Madeira holiday

Madeira, a lush, subtropical archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, offers a unique holiday experience with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and mild climate. Here's what you need to know to plan a seamless trip.

How to reach Madeira

• Flight time: Flights to Madeira from London Gatwick, London Heathrow and other major UK airports take around 3 hours 45 minutes.

• Transfer time: Madeira’s main airport is around 20km from the island’s capital, Funchal. You’ll reach Funchal’s centre in around 30 minutes using the Aerobus shuttle service, or 20 minutes if you take a taxi.

• Price: An Aerobus one-way ticket to Funchal will set you back around €6 while on a taxi to the city centre you’ll have to spend €25–€30.

Best time to visit Madeira

Madeira is warm and pleasant year-long, making it an ideal retreat for northern Europeans, but the ideal time to visit will mainly depend on your expectations.

• March to May: Spring is a lovely and colourful time to visit Madeira due to its famous flower blooms. Temperatures hover around 16°C to 20°C, you can expect 6 to 8 hours of sunshine and moderate rainfall, so it’s the ideal time for hikers and nature lovers.

• June to August: Summer is Madeira’s peak season, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 26°C. With plenty of sunshine (8 to 10 hours daily) and practically no rain, it’s a dream-come-true season for beachgoers and lovers of the great outdoors.

• September to November: The autumn months are still warm, with temperatures between 22°C and 24°C, making them ideal for quieter visits and relaxed sightseeing. Rainfall slightly increases but you can still count on 7 to 9 hours of sunshine a day.

• December to February: Madeira’s winter is mild by UK standards, with average temperatures pleasantly hovering around 16°C to 20°C. Rainfall is the highest in the entire year, but you can still expect 5 to 6 hours of sunshine a day. Come in winter if you want to experience Madeira’s famous New Year’s Eve fireworks or the February Carnival festivities.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Portuguese is the official language, though you’ll find English widely understood.

• Local habits and customs: Madeira’s pace is relaxed and locals appreciate polite greetings. It’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

• Currency: Madeira uses the Euro. ATMs are widely available, and most places accept credit and debit cards, though some cash is handy for smaller purchases.

• Getting around: Madeira’s public bus network is well developed. A single bus fare in Funchal is around €2. The island’s winding roads make car hire popular for exploring outside Funchal.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 230V, with Type C and F plugs, so UK travellers need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Madeira operates on Western European Time, the same as the UK.

• Required travel documentation: UK nationals can stay in Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, with a passport valid for at least six months.

Discovering the best beaches on your Madeira holiday

Madeira, an island renowned for its dramatic cliffs and lush landscapes, also boasts beautiful coastlines and unique beach experiences. While Madeira's beaches may differ from the traditional sandy shores found elsewhere, they offer a variety of settings, from volcanic rock pools to tranquil pebble beaches, each with its own charm.

The best public beaches in Madeira

• Calheta Beach: One of the few sandy beaches on the island, artificially created with golden sand imported from Morocco, offers a family-friendly atmosphere with calm waters, sunbeds, and parasols for hire.

• Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools: Formed by volcanic lava, these natural saltwater pools are surrounded by stunning scenery and equipped with essential facilities, making them a unique swimming experience.

• Praia de Machico: Another sandy beach, albeit with finer, darker sand, provides a sheltered bay ideal for swimming, with good facilities including sunbeds and watersports equipment for hire.

Exclusive experiences at private beaches in Madeira

Madeira does not have many private beaches in the traditional sense, but several hotels and resorts offer exclusive access to seafront areas, pontoons, and swimming platforms, including:

• Cliffside sea access: Resorts built on cliffs often provide private lifts down to the ocean, offering secluded swimming spots and sunbathing areas.

• Hotel swimming platforms: Equipped with sun loungers and direct sea access, these platforms offer a serene ocean experience away from the more popular public spots.

Hidden gems of Madeira’s coastline

• Prainha de Caniçal: A small, secluded black sand beach near Caniçal, offering a quiet retreat and a more traditional beach day out.

• Fajã dos Padres: Accessible only by cable car or boat, this hidden beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and offers fertile land rich in tropical fruits and a peaceful pebble beach.

• Gorgulho Beach: A lesser-known spot near Funchal, known for its clear waters and pebbly shore, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.

Beaches for water sports enthusiasts

Madeira’s diverse coastline and sea conditions cater to a wide range of water sports:

• Scuba Diving and Snorkelling: The crystal-clear waters and rich marine life make the Garajau Partial Nature Reserve a popular spot for diving and snorkelling.

• Surfing: The north coast, particularly around Porto da Cruz, offers excellent waves for surfing enthusiasts of all levels.

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) and Kayaking: The calm waters of the south coast, especially around Ponta do Sol and Calheta, are ideal for SUP and kayaking, allowing for relaxed exploration of the coastline.

Nearest beaches to explore

• Ponta do Sol Beach: A picturesque pebble beach located in the charming village of Ponta do Sol, known for its stunning sunsets and welcoming atmosphere.

• Lido Bathing Complex: Located in Funchal, this complex offers saltwater pools, sunbeds, and access to the sea, along with a variety of facilities and dining options.

Your holiday in Madeira promises an intriguing blend of beach experiences, from the unique natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz to the serene sandy shores of Calheta. Each beach and bathing complex offers a different way to enjoy the island's spectacular natural beauty, making your Madeira holiday an unforgettable escape to paradise.

Local dishes in Madeira

During your Madeira holidays you’ll be spoiled for culinary choice, from fresh seafood to tropical fruits, and the island’s famous wine.

Some typical dishes

• Tomate e Cebola Sopa: Soup is always on the menu in Madeira. One of the local favourites is the simple yet delicious tomate e cebola sopa, made from tomatoes and onions, very often served with a poached egg floating on top.

• Milho Frito: When in Madeira why not try the local staple consisting of fried cubes of cornmeal seasoned with garlic and herbs? It’s pleasantly crunchy on the outside and soft inside and you’ll most often find it served as a side dish with meat or fish.

Meat dishes

• Espetada: Skewers of marinated beef are grilled over an open flame, traditionally on laurel wood for extra flavour, making a juicy and tender dish. Eat like a local and enjoy espetada with garlic butter and the traditional bolo do caco bread.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Espada com Banana: This unique dish features the local black scabbard fish, topped with fried banana. It complements the fish’s flavour surprisingly well so the dish is really worth a try.

• Lapas: Grilled lapas (limpets) are usually served in Madeira fresh with garlic butter and lemon. They’re often enjoyed as a starter and make a perfect pair with a glass of Madeiran white wine.

Sweets and desserts

• Bolo de Mel: This traditional dessert, made with molasses and spices, is a rich-texture honey cake. Most often baked for Christmas or other special occasions on Madeira, it may be an appetising souvenir to bring home.

• Queijadas da Madeira: Queijadas are small, sweet cheese cakes. Made from a blend of local cheese and eggs, they’re a light and fluffy beloved local treat.

Local drinks

• Madeira Wine: Madeira’s fortified wine has been produced here for centuries and comes in four varieties: Sercial (a light, dry aperitif), Malvasia (sweet, heavy dessert wine), Vermelho (a sweeter version of Sercial) and Boal or Malmsey (drier and heavier versions of Malvasia). Madeira pairs well with both savoury and sweet dishes.

• Poncha: A traditional Madeiran drink, poncha is made with aguardente (sugarcane rum), honey and citrus juice. Perfect for warm evenings!

• Coral Beer: Try Madeira’s locally brewed beer, Coral. It’s a light, refreshing lager that pairs well with the seafood dishes.

Engaging in sports on your Madeira holiday

Madeira, the Atlantic’s lush island paradise, offers much more than stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. It’s a playground for sports enthusiasts, with activities ranging from thrilling water sports to peaceful hikes through ancient forests. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Madeira is the perfect destination for an active holiday.

Dive into local sports events in Madeira

Experience the passion for sports by attending a football match at Funchal’s Estádio do Marítimo, home to C.S. Marítimo. Feel the energy and excitement of Portuguese football in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

Sports facilities for travellers in Madeira

• Swimming pools: Many of Madeira’s hotels and resorts feature beautiful outdoor and indoor pools, where you can enjoy a swim with ocean views or surrounded by lush gardens.

• Yoga and fitness: Madeira’s serene environment is ideal for yoga lovers, with many retreats and studios offering sessions immersed in nature. Fitness centres across the island also cater to those looking to maintain their workout routine.

• Tennis: Tennis courts are widely available in Madeira’s resorts and sports complexes, allowing you to play while surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Cycling across Madeira

Explore Madeira’s dramatic landscapes on two wheels:

• Bike rental: Shops across Funchal and other towns provide bike rentals, from mountain bikes for rugged terrain to road bikes for scenic coastal rides.

• Popular cycling routes: Cycle through the Laurisilva forest or enjoy the coastal path from Funchal to Câmara de Lobos for a leisurely but stunning ride.

Hiking adventures in Madeira

Madeira’s network of levadas (irrigation channels) creates unique hiking opportunities:

• Popular hiking routes: Discover the lush beauty of the Levada do Caldeirão Verde trail or take on the challenge of Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak, for panoramic island views.

Water sports in Madeira

The Atlantic waters surrounding Madeira are perfect for a variety of water sports:

• Scuba diving and snorkelling: Discover the vibrant marine life at Garajau’s protected marine reserve.

• Surfing and bodyboarding: Head to the northern coast, particularly Porto da Cruz, for great waves.

• Sailing: Enjoy Madeira’s stunning coastline with yacht rentals or organised sailing excursions.

Golfing in Madeira

Golf lovers will appreciate Madeira’s scenic courses:

• Golf courses: Play at Palheiro Golf or Santo da Serra Golf, where challenging courses are paired with breathtaking sea views at almost every hole.

Madeira offers an incredible blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether hiking through its natural wonders, cycling along scenic paths, or diving into water sports, the island has something to make every holiday truly unforgettable.

Seasonal events and festivals on your Madeira holiday

Madeira, famed for its lush landscapes and rich cultural traditions, offers a calendar packed with vibrant events and festivals year-round. These celebrations provide an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in local traditions and connect with the island’s community spirit.

Seasonal celebrations in Madeira

• New Year: Madeira's New Year's Eve fireworks display in Funchal is one of the largest and most spectacular in the world, attracting visitors from across the globe to witness the breathtaking spectacle over the bay.

• Christmas shopping and markets: During December, Funchal transforms with festive lights, decorations, and Christmas markets, offering a magical shopping experience filled with local crafts, gifts, and seasonal treats.

• Easter: Easter on Madeira reflects the island’s deep religious traditions, with solemn processions and ceremonies, especially in Funchal, where the streets are filled with devotion and vibrant displays.

• Gay events: Madeira has embraced LGBTQ+ events, with Funchal hosting Pride celebrations that promote diversity and inclusivity on the island.

• Carnival: Carnival in Madeira is a dazzling affair, featuring vibrant costumes, lively music, and samba-inspired parades that showcase both Brazilian influence and local culture.

Festivals and cultural events in Madeira

• Flower Festival: Taking place in spring, the Flower Festival highlights Madeira’s floral richness with parades, intricate flower carpets, and stunning exhibitions that turn Funchal into a fragrant wonderland.

• Madeira Wine Festival: Celebrated in late August and September, this festival honours Madeira's renowned winemaking tradition, featuring grape harvest activities, tastings, and lively entertainment.

• Atlantic Festival: Held in June, the Atlantic Festival combines an international fireworks competition with live music, lighting up Funchal’s skies every Saturday night throughout the month.

• Festa da Lapa: This seafood festival in Paul do Mar celebrates Madeira’s culinary heritage, particularly the beloved limpet, offering fresh seafood alongside music and entertainment.

• Columbus Festival: Hosted on Porto Santo, this historical festival honours Christopher Columbus’s connection to the island with period costumes, markets, and reenactments.

These events and festivals bring an unforgettable vibrancy to your Madeira holiday, letting you experience the island’s culture and community at its best. From marvelling at the New Year’s Eve fireworks to revelling in the Flower Festival or savouring local seafood at Festa da Lapa, Madeira’s festive spirit makes every visit extraordinary.

Best things to do in Madeira

Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline, sunbathing or strolling through Funchal’s charming streets, holidays to Madeira promise endless discoveries. Discover more about the best things to do in Maderia during your trip.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Cabo Girão Skywalk: Cabo Girão is one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs from which you’ll enjoy heart-stopping views over the Atlantic and the island’s coastal villages below.

• Miradouro das Neves: This viewpoint just above Funchal offers sweeping panoramas of the capital and the ocean. For an ardent photographer, it’s an ideal spot for capturing Madeira’s famous sunsets.

• Pico do Arieiro: At 1,818m, this mountain viewpoint offers an experience like no other. Take in the views over Madeira’s volcanic peaks and lush valleys, which are particularly stunning in the early morning light.

The best districts

• Funchal Old Town: Stroll through the cobbled streets of Funchal’s historic centre, where colourful doors and quaint cafés set a welcoming scene, and visit the famous Rua de Santa Maria, which is filled with street art.

• Monte: A scenic hillside district above Funchal, Monte is famous for its lush gardens and historic buildings, but today it’s perhaps best known for the famous Monte Toboggan run.

Parks and gardens

• Madeira Botanical Garden: Located in Funchal, the island’s main botanical garden occupies steep terraces which are filled with nearly every plant that grows on Madeira and exotic plants from other regions of the world. The lovely views over the city and harbour are a great bonus.

• Monte Palace Tropical Garden: This peaceful Monte garden is beautifully laid out, with serene ponds, oriental statues, and a rich collection of plant species. A lovely place for a relaxed stroll with excellent views over Funchal.

Historical monuments

• Sé Cathedral: Funchal’s key landmark is the 15th-century Gothic-style cathedral. The exterior of the Sé is quite plain, topped by a granite clock tower, but its interior is a sight to remember, with an intricate wooden ceiling and ornate altarpieces.

• Fortaleza de São Tiago: This fort in Funchal was built to protect the island from pirate attacks in the 17th century. Today, it houses a contemporary art museum and, as it always did, offers good views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Regional highlights

• Camara de Lobos: Just west of Funchal, this little charmer of a village has an authentic Madeiran atmosphere and is quite photogenic, with a harbour full of gaily-painted boats. It’s easy to see why it was one of Winston Churchill’s favourite painting spots.

• Porto Moniz: Famous for its natural lava pools, Porto Moniz on the northwest coast of the island is ideal for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters amidst dramatic scenery.

• Santana: Traditional A-frame houses, palheiros, painted in bright colours are the greatest attraction of this scenic village which is a popular spot to experience Madeira’s rural charm.

Activities for families in Madeira

Madeira is a fantastic destination for families, with a multitude of exciting options to choose from.

• CR7 Museum: The CR7 Museum in Funchal, dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo who was born there, is a must for football fans of all ages, showcasing memorabilia and highlights of the famous footballer’s career.

• Whale watching: Take the family on a whale-watching tour from Funchal’s marina, where sightings of dolphins and whales are common. If you can, choose a tour led by a marine biologist who can offer fascinating insights into the sea life around Madeira.

• Cable car rides: Children will be delighted to take a thrilling ride on the cable car from Funchal to Monte and see the island from above. Once at Monte, you can even take the famous toboggan run down the hill.

• Parque Temático de Madeira (Madeira Theme Park): This park in Santana is one of Madeira’s best attractions for children, with a large playground, mini train, maze and boating lake. Beside all that, the park offers educational insights into historical and cultural aspects of the region as you can watch craftsmen at work and visit the typical thatched Santana houses.

Free things to do in Madeira

Madeira has a plethora of free activities that let you experience the island’s culture and natural beauty.

• Free events: Madeira hosts many festivals throughout the year, some of which are free. The annual Flower Festival, with many free events celebrating the island’s famous blooms, is a must and the New Year’s Eve spectacular fireworks in Funchal are also free to watch.

• Levada walks: Madeira’s unique network of irrigation channels, or levadas, offers some of the best hiking trails in Europe. Popular routes include Levada do Rei and Levada dos Balcões and are a great cost-free way to spend a rewarding day.

• Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ Market): The Mercado dos Lavradores is an excellent fruit, vegetable, flower and fish market in Funchal. You don’t have to buy anything but just wander through the stalls and soak in the local atmosphere without paying a cent.