Ultimate Madeira travel guide: Top things to do, where to stay & best viewpoints
December 7th
Discover the best of Madeira with my ultimate travel guide. Explore the top attractions, stunning viewpoints and most importantly… the best and most delicious dining spots. Plus, the perfect places to stay.
Madeira travel guide
Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal, is an island paradise known for its rugged beauty, lush gardens and chilled culture. Whether you’re hiking through the scenic levadas, enjoying a traditional bolo do caco in Funchal or taking in the breathtaking views from Pico do Arieiro, this island offers a unique experience to all.
Let’s explore the best of what Madeira has to offer!
The best viewpoints
Madeira boasts numerous viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the island’s dramatic landscapes. Here are some of the best viewpoints you must see.
Anjos Waterfall
Cabo Girão Skywalk
Veu da Noiva Waterfall
Fanal Forest
Pico do Arieiro
Ponta do Rosto
Machico
These spots offer panoramic views that are perfect for capturing the beauty of Madeira. Be sure to check out my video here for stunning images from these viewpoints.
Where to stay
Madeira has a variety of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. I highly recommend the Hotel São João Quintinha in Funchal. This charming hotel combines modern amenities with the elegance of a historic property.
Hotel São João Quintinha: Located in the heart of Funchal, this hotel is known for its beautiful gardens, excellent service and luxurious rooms.
Things to do
Madeira is brimming with activities and attractions. Here are some must-do activities during your visit:
- Hiking the Levadas: Explore the island’s unique irrigation channels that offer stunning hiking trails.
- Visit the Laurisilva Forest: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity.
- Monte Palace Tropical Garden: A beautiful garden with exotic plants and stunning views.
- Funchal Cable Car: Enjoy a scenic ride from Funchal to Monte for breathtaking views of the city and coastline.
- Wine Tasting: Sample Madeira’s famous fortified wines.
- Whale and Dolphin Watching: Take a boat tour to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
- Explore Funchal’s Old Town: Wander through the charming streets and enjoy local cuisine.
- Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools: Swim in these volcanic rock pools filled with crystal-clear seawater.
- Santana’s Traditional Houses: Visit these unique thatched houses that are a symbol of Madeira.
- Botanical Garden: Discover the diverse plant species in one of Madeira’s most beautiful gardens.
My top tips
- Wear comfortable shoes: Madeira’s terrain can be rugged and uneven, so be prepared for lots of walking.
- Try the local wines: Don’t miss out on traditional dishes like espetada, bolo do caco and the famous Madeira wine.
- Rent a car: To fully explore the island at your own pace, consider renting a car.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Madeira is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the island is less crowded.
Where to Eat
Madeira is a food lover’s paradise with a variety of dining options. Here are a few recommendations:
- Restaurante do Forte: Located in Funchal, this restaurant offers a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes.
- Taberna Madeira: A cosy spot in Funchal known for its delicious local cuisine.
- Casa de Pasto Justiniano: Located in Santana, this restaurant is famous for its hearty Madeiran dishes.
Best Time to Visit
Madeira enjoys a mild climate year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months. These seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Madeira is an island that invites you to discover something new at every turn. With its rich natural beauty, culture and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder that it’s a favourite destination for travellers from around the world. Plan your trip to Madeira and immerse yourself in the magic of this incredible island!
FAQs for madeira Travel Guide
Q: What are some free attractions in Madeira?
A: You can explore the Levadas, visit the Laurisilva Forest and enjoy the viewpoints for free. Many gardens and parks, such as the Jardim Municipal in Funchal, are also free to enter.
Q: Are there any free museums in Madeira?
A: Some museums offer free entry on certain days. The Madeira Story Centre in Funchal occasionally has free admission days.
Q: Is it free to enter Madeira’s churches?
A: Many of Madeira’s historic churches, like the Cathedral of Funchal, are free to enter.
Q: What are some unusual activities to do in Madeira?
A: Visit the Madeira Theme Park, explore the caves of São Vicente and take a traditional toboggan ride from Monte to Funchal.
Q: Is there anything off the beaten path in Madeira?
A: Explore the lesser-known trails in the northwest part of the island, visit the remote village of Curral das Freiras, or discover the hidden beaches along the coastline.
Q: Can you recommend any unusual places to eat in Madeira?
A: Try Restaurante Armazém do Sal, which is set in a historic salt warehouse, or dine at Quinta do Furão, offering stunning cliffside views.
Q: Are there any unique viewpoints in Madeira?
A: Beyond the popular viewpoints, visit Miradouro da Terra Chã for a unique perspective of the island.
Q: What are some unusual shopping spots in Madeira?
A: Explore the local markets like Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal for fresh produce and handmade crafts, or visit the small artisan shops in Camacha.
Join me as I uncover the hidden luxuries in everyday moments and share the magic of authentic travel experiences. Explore the world through my lens and be inspired by stories that celebrate the beauty and culture of each destination I visit.
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