There are lots of things to do in Madeira – the island of flowers (and I must add – dreams 💜). But first, let’s get the basics out of the way:
Table of Contents
How to get to Madeira
Madeira island is located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Portugal. The best way to get to Madeira island is by plane. The Madeira International Airport (FNC) is the island’s main airport, and there are direct flights from many European cities, including Lisbon, London, and Frankfurt. There are actually pretty low-cost options – we flew from London for less than 50 GBP round-trip!
Where to stay in Madeira
Madeira has many great accommodation options, ranging from luxury resorts and hotels to guesthouses and apartments. As many of these options become full quickly, try to book as early as you can! It can get pretty expensive if you book last-minute.
Some of the best places to stay in Madeira include:
- Belmond Reid’s Palace, Booking.com rating: 9.4, price per night: 380 EUR
- Quinta da Casa Branca, Booking.com rating: 9.5, price per night: 230 EUR
For something more budget friendly, try :
- Pestana Casino Park Hotel & Casino, Booking.com rating: 8.1, price per night: 110 EUR
-
Pôr do Sol (apartment), Booking.com rating: 10, price per night: 60 EUR
- FX Pena, Booking.com rating: 8.5, price per night: 40 EUR
We ended up staying at Pestana, a relatively budget option, but we did have breakfast included which won our hearts. The breakfast was nice and they had fresh pastel de nata – the go-to desert that I always eat in Portugal (yum don’t miss it!). Overall we were happy with the hotel and would stay there again.
How to get around Madeira
Madeira is an island off the coast of Portugal, so the best way to get around is to drive or take public transport. There are frequent bus services connecting all of the major towns and cities on the island. The bus network is well–developed and the fares are very reasonable. However, you won’t be able to visit some of the most beautiful and remote points, so your best bet is definitely renting a car and driving in Madeira – at least for a few days. Taxis are also readily available, but the fares are usually more expensive. You can also take a ferry from the port of Funchal to the nearby islands of Porto Santo and Desertas.
Things to do in Madeira – East
1. Watch the sunrise at Ponta do Bode
Driving time from Funchal: 30 minutes
Ponta do Bode is a spectacular viewpoint located in the northwest of Madeira Island, Portugal. Honestly, watching the sunrise here was one of the best things to do in Madeira for me! The point lies in the municipality of Santo da Serra, in the parish of Canhas. It is a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the beautiful island of Porto Santo. This beautiful spot offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the Porto Santo Island. It is a popular spot for photographers, hikers and nature lovers who come to admire the stunning landscape.
Ponta do Bode is accessible by car and about a 30-minute drive from the capital city of Funchal, making it an easy and convenient place to visit. The nearby town of Canhas also offers a variety of accommodation options and tourist attractions.
2. Watch the sunrise at Ponta do Rosto
Driving time from previous point: 8 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 30 minutes
If you’re looking for a unique way to start your day, there’s nothing quite like watching the sunrise from Ponta do Rosto – another best thing to do in Madeira island. Watching the sunrise from Ponta do Rosto, Madeira is a truly incredible experience (and this one is also easily accessible by car). The rocky promontory provides a stunning view of the vast Atlantic Ocean, and the sun rising over the horizon is a breathtaking sight. As the sun slowly rises, its rays reflect off the waves and make the ocean sparkle in the morning light. The sky is painted with a myriad of colors, from pinks and oranges to deep blues and purples. In the distance, the islands of Porto Santo and Desertas can be seen in the early morning fog.
The nearby hills provide a picturesque backdrop to the sunrise, and the air is filled with the sound of birds chirping and the gentle roar of the waves. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. The sight of the sun slowly rising over the horizon is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come.
3. Hike to Ponta de São Lourenço
Driving time from previous point: 5 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 30 minutes
The Ponta de São Lourenço hike is a great way to explore the beautiful Portuguese island of Madeira. It is located on the easternmost tip of the island and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby islands of Porto Santo and Deserta Grande. The hike begins at this point, PR8 Verada da Ponta de São Lourenço, and follows a well–marked walking path through a rugged landscape of dramatic cliffs and stunning sea views. Along the way, hikers can spot a variety of wildflowers and plants, and they may even catch a glimpse of dolphins or whales in the ocean below. The trail ends at a viewpoint overlooking the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço beach, where visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the Atlantic. It is a total of 7 km, takes about 2-3 hours, has medium difficulty and is one of the most popular things to do in Madeira, so I advise you to start your day early. If you want to feel more comfortable, book a guided tour.
4. Hike further to Miradouro Ponta do Furado
If you’ve decided to hike through the PR8 Verada da Ponta de São Lourenço path, don’t miss the highlight of your day – Pico Furado. It’s absolutely gorgeous and so instagrammable, but this is also one of the most popular points of the hike – the earlier you go, the better the chances are that you’ll miss the crowds.
Things to do in Madeira – Funchal
5. Play with the Giant Chess in TUI Blue Gardens
Playing with the Giant Chess at the TUI Blue Gardens – Savoy Signature is such a cute off-the-beaten-path thing to do in Madeira! The game is set up on the grass area near the pool and is available to all guests. The chess set is made of large plastic pieces that are brightly colored and easy to move. The game is a great way to spend time with friends and family, or simply to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
6. See the Cristiano Ronaldo Statue — at Museu CR7
The Cristiano Ronaldo Statue is located in the garden of the Museu CR7 in Madeira, Portugal. The statue stands at a height of 8.3 meters and weighs 1,500 kilos, making it the world‘s largest Cristiano Ronaldo statue. The statue was unveiled in March 2014 and is a tribute to the famous footballer and his achievements. It features a likeness of Ronaldo in a typical attacking position and is made of bronze and stainless steel. The statue is a popular tourist attraction and a must–see for football fans visiting the island. So don’t wonder what to do in Madeira – visit it 💜
7. Taste Madeira – Mercado dos Lavradores
The Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers Market) is a vibrant and colorful marketplace in the capital of Madeira, Funchal. Located in the center of town, the market is the perfect place to shop for fresh produce, traditional Madeiran crafts, and souvenirs. The market dates back to the 1700s, when farmers would bring their produce to the city to be sold. Today, the market offers a mix of traditional products and modern–day items, making it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can find everything from Madeiran handicrafts and jewelry to locally grown fruits and vegetables. And honestly, don’t miss this top thing to do in Madeira – it’s worth trying ALL the different fruits, they’re amazing! We got a bit of everything and were definitely not disappointed.
The market is divided into two sections: the outdoor market and the indoor market. The outdoor market features a variety of products, including flowers, plants, and fruits. The indoor market offers a wide selection of souvenirs, clothing, and local snacks and beverages. There are also several small cafés and restaurants located within the market.
8. Visit the Flower Festival
The Flower Festival in Madeira Island is an event that takes place every year, in April or May, to celebrate nature’s beauty and the island’s lush flora. It’s best to Google the exact dates beforehand if you want to catch it. It is a unique and exciting time that brings together people from all over the world. The island is known for its beautiful flowers, and during this period the island’s parks and gardens come alive with a variety of colourful blossoms. Events are organised during the festival, centred around themes such as the history of Madeira and its flowers, floral shows, art exhibitions, live music, and traditional dance performances.
The main event of the festival is the “Festa da Flor”, which is held in the capital city of Funchal. This event sees the streets of Funchal come alive with a huge parade, featuring performers in traditional costumes, floats decorated with flowers, and, most famously, the ‘Rainha da Flor’ (Queen of the Flowers). Following the parade, the city is adorned with huge floral displays, and concerts and events are held in both the daytime and the evening.
9. Go on a dolphin and whale watching tour
If you’re wondering what to do in Madeira for an active and fun afternoon, this is such a great option. There are a number of whale and dolphin watching tours available in Madeira. The Island of Madeira offers the chance for you to experience the beautiful and graceful creatures that inhabit its waters. Tours typically range from an approximate three to four hours and can include a swim stop at one of the local beaches or bays. Most tour operators will provide a knowledgeable guide and a variety of species to observe which can include common and bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, sperm whales, humpback whales and even the rarer species such as beaked whales.
10. Scuba dive
Scuba diving in Madeira is a popular activity amongst visitors and locals alike. The pristine Atlantic waters of this Portuguese archipelago make it an ideal location for divers of all levels. The waters off the coast of Madeira are well–known for its abundance of wildlife, including rays, dolphins, eels, and moray eels. The islands also offer a unique selection of dive sites such as wrecks, walls, and reefs. With a variety of dive schools and equipment rental outlets, this place is a great place to explore the underwater world, so don’t miss scuba diving as an exciting thing to do in Madeira.
11. Ride the Funchal Cable Car
The Funchal Cable Car is a cable car system that connects the City of Funchal with Monte, which is located in the parish of São Martinho, in the Madeira archipelago. The cable car provides a beautiful and comfortable trip between these two points in just 8 minutes. The round trip costs about 21 EUR per person, and Monte palace at the top is pretty amazing. See below for more ideas what to do in Madeira.
12. Explore Monte palace
Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a tropical garden located in the hills of Monte, a neighborhood in the municipality of Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. Sitting at an altitude of 600m, it is the highest garden on the island of Madeira. Created by German businessman Dieter Paulmann, it opened in 1999 and covers an area of about 13 hectares. The garden offers breathtaking views of Funchal, the Atlantic Ocean and the Desert Islands. It is filled with a large variety of exotic trees and plants, including more than 250 species of plants, many of which are native to the island, and an impressive collection of cacti, succulents and palm trees. Many of the plants and trees were imported from other parts of the world, including the Americas, Africa, Australia and Asia. There is also a wide range of sculptures, ponds, waterfalls and fountains throughout the garden.
13. Ride the TOBOGGAN at Monte
Tobogganing on Madeira is a great way to experience the breathtaking scenery of the island. You can ride a toboggan down the winding streets of Funchal and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Tobogganing can be booked through many different tour companies, and you can enjoy the ride in a traditional wicker toboggan or a more modern metal version. The ride typically lasts around 10 minutes and is an exciting, thrilling way to explore the city – definitely one of the best things to do in Madeira. You can reach speeds of about 48 km/h!
14. Check out Christo Rey Statue
The Christo Rey Statue is a beautiful monument in the city of Madeira, Portugal. It was created to honor the patron saint of the island, Christ the King. The statue is located very close to Funchal, surrounded by lush vegetation and trees. It stands 16 meters tall, and is made of bronze. The statue depicts Christ in the traditional pose of blessing, with his arms outstretched and his crown on his head. The statue was constructed in 1985 and has since become a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take in the beauty of the statue while they explore the city.
15. Go to Ponta do Garajau
This gorgeous viewpoint is located right below the Christo Rey statue. Ponta do Garajau is a cape in the southwest of the island of Madeira, in the municipality of Santa Cruz. It is located about 10 km southwest of Funchal and is the westernmost point of Portugal‘s continental territory. A large cross stands at the top of the cape, which can be seen from the sea. The point is a great option for sunset and if you’re wondering what to do in Madiera in case the weather at the mountains is not pleasant.
16. Visit Madeira Botanical Garden
The Madeira Botanical Garden is a public park located in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. Founded in 1960, it covers 8 hectares and hosts over 1,500 species of plants, including some of the endemic species of the island of Madeira. The park is composed of several sections, such as a rock garden, an orchid garden, a palm grove, a Camellia House, a Tea House, and a Laurisilva Forest, the latter of which hosts several species of laurel trees.
Things to do in Madeira – South
17. Hike Levada Moinho to the huge waterfall
Driving time from Funchal: 30 minutes
The Levada Moinho Waterfall in Madeira is one of the island‘s most popular hikes. It is a 9 km trail that follows an old watercourse, or levada. The trail passes through lush vegetation and dramatic landscapes and offers spectacular views of the valley, mountain slopes and ravines. As the hike progresses, the trail leads to an impressive 30–meter tall waterfall. The falls and the surrounding scenery make for a perfect place to rest and enjoy the stunning landscape. The hike typically takes around 3 hours. If you’re worried about getting lost, you can always book a guided tour and have a peace of mind. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing and footwear for the hike and plenty of water. For more on this great thing to do in Madeira, check out this blog post.
18. See the sunset at Câmara de Lobos, Madeira
Driving time from Funchal: 12 minutes
Ah, here’s a great sunset spot! Câmara de Lobos is an old fishing village and one of the first settlements on the island. It was annexed to Funchal in 1566 and became separate again in 1835. The village is known for its colorful houses, narrow streets and traditional fishing boats. In its center is the Church of Santo Amaro. The municipality is known for its wine production, especially “Verdelho“, a sweet dessert wine.
19. Visit the Cabo Girão skywalk – highest cliff in Europe
Driving time from previous point: 10 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 20 minutes
Cabo Girão Skywalk is an aerial platform located on the edge of the highest cliff in Europe (589m), Cabo Girão, in the south of Madeira Island, Portugal. The platform opened in December 2012, and it can be reached by car OR via a 454–metre (1,490–foot) long walkway from the nearby lookout point. It consists of a glass floor and sides, and has a capacity for up to 15 people. The platform gives visitors a 360–degree view of the Atlantic Ocean and the city of Funchal, the capital of Madeira. If I have to be perfectly honest, this is not one of the best things to do in Madeira. Compared to all the other beautiful views on the island, this one is not that spectacular. But hey, it’s very easy to reach!
20. Watch the sunset at Miraduoro vale das Neves
Driving time from Funchal: 12 minutes
Another beautiful viewpoint in Madeira. You can never get enough of those! Watch the sunset here and then head to dinner, I guarantee for a perfect evening.
Driving time from Funchal: 33 minutes
Well, not all things to do in Madeira must be popular, right? We found this hidden bridge by accident, but it was honestly very, very beautiful. Here is the Google location – it’s on the way to the very popular Anjos waterfall (below), so make a stop and enjoy its beauty.
22. Watch the sunset at Cascata dos Anjos waterfall
Driving time from previous point: 2 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 35 minutes
Now, here we are at one of my top 5 things to do in Madeira! This waterfall is like nothing I’d ever seen before and I was so excited for it. It’s super easy to reach and it’s a quick drive from Funchal. Anjos falls right on the street and cars pass right below it! In fact, when you visit, you’ll need to do the same, as you will have to turn the car around at the next intersection. You can even dip in it, so bring your bathing suit. The waterfall is honestly most beautiful during the summer sunsets – it’s like liquid gold, no photo can do it justice.
Things to do in Madeira – Mainland
23. Drive up to Pico do Arieiro
Driving time from Funchal: 40 minutes
Pico Arieiro is the third highest peak in Madeira, and one of the most popular hikes on the island. The peak stands at an elevation of 1,818 m and offers stunning views of the countryside, as well as the nearby islands of Porto Santo and Desertas. From the peak, visitors can see the nearby Pico Ruivo and Pico do Areeiro as well as the cities of Funchal and Câmara de Lobos.
A few different hiking trails begin here. You can reach Pico do Arieiro by car, but be wary – the parking gets insanely full at peak hours. Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds. There are also guided tour available, where you can see all 3 Madeira’s highest peaks.
24. Watch the sunset at Eira do Serrado
Driving time from Funchal: 30 minutes
Eira do Serrado is a viewing platform located in the village of Serrado. It is situated at the top of a steep mountain in the mountain range of the same name, offering sweeping views across the valley below. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area, attracting hundreds of visitors each year. It offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and is also a great spot for one of the best things to do in Madeira – enjoying the sunset.
25. Visit the mountain village Curral das Freiras
Driving time from previous point: 12 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 25 minutes
Curral das Freiras is a small village located in the municipality of Porto Santo in the Portuguese island of Madeira. It is located at an altitude of about 500 meters on the western slope of the mountain of Porto Santo and is renowned for its picturesque landscape. The village is made up of a few dozen houses and enjoys a pleasant climate with an average temperature of 16°C in the winter and 21°C in the summer. The village is named after the 16th–century monastery of Santa Clara de Curral das Freiras that was founded by the Franciscans. The name of the village literally means ‘Cage of Nuns’, as the monastery was traditionally home to cloistered nuns. Today, the village of Curral das Freiras is a popular destination for tourists and hikers, who can enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the pleasant climate. It is also a great destination for those looking to experience a more traditional side of Madeira.
26. Check out Cascata do Lombo do Mouro – waterfalls
Driving time from Funchal: 37 minutes
If you’re a photographer, Lombo do Mouro might quickly become one of your favorite spots in Madeira. It’s perfect for photographs in blue hour, and it’s easily accessible by car. There are multiple waterfalls and one of them (again!) is pouring right on the road. We only managed to take a glimpse of it during a super thick mist, but it was still gorgeous.
27. Start your day at Miradouro da Bica da Cana
Driving time from previous point: 10 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 45 minutes
Another amazing sunrise spot and an awesome thing to do in Madeira – Miradouro da Bica da Cana. If you visit at the right time, you might even catch the low-hanging clouds, which are every photographer’s dream. The viewpoint is named after water supply pipes that used to bring water to the city. The pipes have been preserved and are now part of the viewpoint. Visitors can see them while they admire the panoramic views of the harbor and the city. The viewpoint is easily accessible and can be reached by car. There is a parking lot nearby, which makes it convenient to park and take in the views. The pathway to the viewpoint is decorated with traditional azulejos tiles, which makes for a pleasant walk. The viewpoint is also a great place to take photographs and visitors can also enjoy a picnic in the grass. It is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views.
28. Walk and hike around Paul da Serra
Driving time from Funchal: 40 minutes
Paul da Serra, located near the town of Calheta and surrounded by the highest mountains of Madeira, is a great spot for walking and hiking. With its varied terrain, Paul da Serra offers a range of outdoor activities for all levels of fitness. The area is popular for its trails, with plenty of routes for all levels of difficulty. A good place to start is the Levada dos Tornos, an easy circular trail that takes you through the stunning mountain scenery. The path is well–marked and you’ll find plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. For a more challenging route, walk to the summit of Pico Ruivo, the highest peak in Madeira. The ascent takes around four hours and the views from the top are worth the effort!
Things to do in Madeira – Northeast
29. Watch the sunrise from Miradouro do Guindaste
Driving time from Funchal: 40 minutes
Watching the sunrise from Miradouro do Guindaste in Madeira is a truly breathtaking experience. Located on the eastern side of the island, this viewpoint overlooks the stunning blue ocean and the sweeping coastline below. As the sun rises, its bright orange and yellow rays illuminate the horizon, instantly lifting the mood of anyone taking in the view. From this spot, you can also spot the many boats passing through the harbor, creating a peaceful and calming atmosphere.
The Miradouro do Guindaste is a great spot for a romantic early morning outing, as the sun slowly rises, casting its warm glow over the area. Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the gardens and take in the spectacular views. As the sun rises further, it reveals the lush green hills in the background, giving the scene an even more majestic look. Plus, it‘s a great spot for photography, as you can capture some truly beautiful shots of the surroundings.
* Bear in mind that it was CLOSED when we visited in 2022, so check out Google maps for information about the hours.
Driving time from previous point: 10 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 45 minutes
Rocha do Navio viewpoint is a spectacular viewpoint located in the picturesque island of Madeira in Portugal. Situated at an altitude of about 450 meters, it offers an amazing view of the entire island and the surrounding sea. The viewpoint also has a historical significance as it was the exact spot from which Vasco da Gama set sail in 1497. You can take the cable car down to the village, there is even a hotel there – so remote and hard to reach, that it’ll guarantee you a quiet time on the island.
31. See the Santana houses (Casas tipicas de Santana)
Driving time from previous point: 5 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 40 minutes
Santana is a municipality located in the northern part of the Portuguese island of Madeira. The town is renowned for its traditional houses, which have been making the town a popular tourist attraction for many years. Casas tipicas de Santana (typical houses of Santana) are known for their unique architectural style and brightly colored exteriors. The typical houses of Santana are built in a style that is typical of the island, with a strong emphasis on symmetry and sharp angles. Visiting them is definitely one of the best things to do in Madeira!
These houses are constructed out of local stone, featuring whitewashed walls that are decorated with simple hand–painted designs. The houses are usually one or two stories, with the roof being made of terracotta tiles. The bright colors of the walls and roof, combined with the traditional architecture, make the houses of Santana stand out from the rest of the island. The windows and doors of the houses are typically adorned with colorful painted wooden frames and shutters, which are often decorated with flower designs. The interior of the houses is often decorated with traditional wood furniture.
32. Stroll around Parque Florestal das Queimadas
Driving time from previous point: 10 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 55 minutes
Parque Florestal das Queimadas is a forest park located in the Madeira region of Portugal. The park was established to protect the unique flora and fauna of Madeira, which includes the endangered Madeiran Wall Lizard and the endemic Madeiran Long–toed Pigeon. The park covers an area of 48 hectares, and is home to dozens of species of trees and plants, as well as a wide variety of bird species. The park is divided into two parts; one part is open to visitors and the other is a nature reserve. The park features four trails, which range from easy to challenging. The trails lead visitors through the diverse landscape of the park, with views of the ocean and the surrounding cliffs. Along the way, visitors can explore the abundant flora, with more than 300 species of plants and numerous species of native birds.
33. Hike the trail Achada do Teixeira – Pico Ruvio
Driving time from previous point: 25 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 1 hour
This is one of the relatively easier trails in Madeira – it’s about 6km long and is definitely better than the Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruvio trail. You can reach Achada do Teixeira by car and if you want more details – find them here.
34. Explore the São Vicente Caves
Driving time from Funchal: 35 minutes
The São Vicente Caves are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Madeira. Located on the north side of the island, the São Vicente Caves offer visitors the chance to explore one of the most mysterious geological features in the world. These vast and varied limestone caves were discovered in the mid–19th century, and since then, they have been a major attraction for tourists. The São Vicente Caves are composed of two vast and three smaller caves formed by erosion over millions of years. Stalactites and stalagmites create a truly surreal atmosphere as visitors explore the winding passages. These caves are also filled with interesting rock formations, like stalagmites and columnar formations, as well as pools of clear water and unique fauna.
Things to do in Madeira – Northwest & West
35. Watch the sunrise at Ribeira da Janela rock (Illeus da Ribeira da Janela)
Driving time from Funchal: 55 minutes
Seriously, if you decide to ONLY get up one morning and watch the sunrise – please, do it here! Ribeira da Janela rock is an incredibly scenic spot – absolutely the best thing to do in Madeira. It is situated near the northeastern coast of Madeira and is known for its spectacular views of the ocean and rocky cliffs. The site is particularly popular for taking photos, fishing and sunbathing. It is also a great spot for picnics and exploring nearby. The area is extremely picturesque and offers beautiful views of the surrounding coastline and the rocky formations. Ribeira da Janela is known for its abundance of wildlife, including seagulls, dolphins and whales. Visitors can spot these animals swimming around the rocks and in the waters of the bay. You can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, beach volleyball, horseback riding, snorkeling and fishing. The rocky formations provide excellent climbing opportunities, and visitors can explore the caves and crevices at their leisure.
36. Seixal Natural Pools
Driving time from previous point: 12 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 45 minutes
The Seixal Natural Pools in Madeira are one of the island’s hidden gems. The pools are an intricate network of natural rock pools that provide a wonderful place for swimming and relaxation. The crystal–clear waters and impressive cliffs create a breathtaking view. The natural pools, which are formed from volcanic rocks and sediment, can be accessed by a steep staircase leading to the ocean below. As the tide goes out, the natural pools are revealed and they offer the perfect opportunity to swim in their warm and calm waters. The views across the Atlantic Ocean here are stunning, and local restaurants offer the chance to enjoy a meal while looking out over the pools and the lovely beaches. The Seixal Natural Pools are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and to enjoy some of the best nature that Madeira has to offer. It’s a great place to while away the hours in the sun
37. Seixal Beach
Driving time from previous point: 4 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 45 minutes
Seixal Beach is a stunning beach located on the north–west coast of the island of Madeira, Portugal. This beach is known for its crystal–clear waters and golden sand, and its popularity among visitors seeking out an ideal beach escape. Seixal Beach is situated in a sheltered, bay area, with rock formations that create a natural barrier to the sea, giving visitors a sense of safety and privacy. The beach has two sections, one on the east end, where the main swimming area can be found, and a second section of the beach that is less accessible and quieter. On the east side of the beach, visitors will find a wide range of amenities, including showers and changing rooms, toilets and a cafe.
38. Piscinas Naturais Velhas – Pôrto Do Moniz
Driving time from previous point: 15 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 53 minutes
This large and beautiful area is part of the Parque Natural da Madeira, which is a protected part of the Madeira Archipelago. The area consists of several large rock pools surrounded by rugged cliffs, making the scenery breathtaking. There are plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel, as well as plenty of easy access points into the sea, via wooden steps or ramps. Visitors to the area can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The area is also a great spot for sunbathing, as it is located on the south side of the island, with plenty of shade provided by the surrounding cliffs. The emerald green water and the spectacular views of the distant islands create a truly magical atmosphere.
39. Hike the 25 waterfalls trail – PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes (Levada do Risco)
Driving time from Funchal: 50 minutes
25 waterfalls?? Count me in! This trail is a very popular one and is definitely one of the best things to do in Madeira. It takes about 3 hours and it’s 9 km round trip. It’s of a moderate difficulty, so make sure to bring comfy shoes and plenty of water with you. If you’re worried about getting lost, you can always book this high-rated guided tour.
40. Pass by Miradouro do Véu da Noiva
Driving time from Funchal: 40 minutes
Miradouro do Véu da Noiva, also known as “Bride’s Veil Viewpoint,” is a stunning viewpoint located in the municipality of Seixal. The viewpoint offers spectacular views of the nearby sea with its crystal clear waters, lush green landscapes, and stunningly beautiful landscapes. The picturesque scene of a rope bridge below, with the ocean in the background, is particularly stunning. Visitors will also be able to see the mountains of Madeira in the distance.
41. Enjoy Miraduoro do Seixal
Driving time from previous point: 4 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 44 minutes
The Miradouro do Seixal is a scenic viewpoint located on the Madeira Island of Portugal. It offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby city. The viewpoint is situated on a hilltop and is surrounded by lush greenery. From this vantage point, visitors can take in the breathtaking beauty of the island, including the beaches, the rolling hills, and the magnificent mountains.
42. Get amazed by Fanal Forest
Driving time from previous point: 27 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 1 hour
Ah, Fanal forest, that’s probably why you’ve decided to visit Madeira, right?! Well, yes, visiting this magical place is definitely THE best thing to do in Madeira. It is a unique example of temperate laurel forest, one of the few in the world, and it is home to a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are considered endemic. Fanal Forest is dominated by trees from the Lauraceae family, including the endemic Madeira Laurel (Ocotea foetens). The laurel forest is an evergreen, shrubby forest which supports a diverse range of endemic bird, reptile and amphibian species, as well as a number of insect species. The forest provides a unique opportunity to explore one of the few remaining temperate laurel forests in the world – it is protected by UNESCO.
To catch it in all its beauty, you do need to catch the mist. You don’t need to be here at sunrise – the weather here changes quickly, we caught amazing thick mist (well, actually cloud) around noon. You just need a bit of patience or – just visit another day. We weren’t lucky on day 1, but saw the mist on day 2. Here’s the nearest weather station, so you can monitor it. In terms of parking, here is the best point – https://goo.gl/maps/WjkkAyCkPpuHuSJ67
43. Ride the Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz
Driving time from Funchal: 1 hour
Here it is – the steepest cable car in Europe! Do you dare visit it? If the thought scares you – just go to the viewpoint and enjoy it, honestly, the view is pretty amazing. But if you do take the cable car, there’s a very picturesque village at the bottom, so stroll around and take it all in.
44. Check out Miradouro da Garganta Funda viewpoint
Driving time from previous point: 18 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 52 minutes
Miradouro da Garganta Funda is a scenic lookout point located in the Madeira region of Portugal. Situated on the northern coast of the island, this scenic spot offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline of Madeira. From here, visitors can catch a glimpse of the nearby levadas and the beautiful terraced hillsides of the island.
45. Drive to Farol da Ponta do Pargo
Driving time from previous point: 7 minutes
Driving time from Funchal: 51 minutes
The Farol da Ponta do Pargo is a lighthouse located on the westernmost point of the Portuguese island of Madeira. It is situated at the summit of Ponta do Pargo, a cape in the municipality of Calheta, and it is part of the Natural Park of Madeira, offering visitors impressive views of the Atlantic Ocean and the blue–green Madeiran landscape. The current stone tower was built in 1910, and its beacon is visible up to 27 nautical miles away. It is one of the few lighthouses in the world that still operates using a ‘Hyperradiant‘ optical system, consisting of two large reflectors placed opposite each other on the two sides of the lantern room.
Whew, that’s the end of our amazing list of things to do in Madeira. Do you have a favorite? Are you excited about visiting? Let me know in the comments.
