Discover the 25 best Things to Do in Madeira, from levada hikes and Pico Ruivo to Porto Moniz’s pools, gardens, and scenic drives.
Madeira has an uncanny ability to make you re-evaluate everything you thought you knew about what a holiday to an island should be.
When you come you might just think it’s what you told me about beach sunshine a few hours lazing under a sun. Then you open your eyes and realize that green mountains shoot from the Atlantic into the sky. Or spend half a day wandering in one of centuries-proven levada, leaning over the clouds at Monte, swimming in a natural pool sculpted by lavaflows.
And that is what puts the variety into Madeira attractions and activities to do in Madeira, a variety that stands comfortably beside Tulum attractions for anyone who loves exploring. Hiking trails, viewpoint villages, forests, coastal settlements, gardens, cultural sites, activities at sea are all to be found on Portugal’s fantastic island. Madeira’s official tourism body showcases all these activities and more walking, nature activities, cultural attractions of Funchal and…and activities at sea. (Visit Madeira)
I have written this guide so that you get the most out of the island without just ticking off places off a tick list. Some spots are awe-inspiring scenery, some are fun to get to, and then some are just strange, interesting , funny or so unbelievable you stop and think, ‘How is that even possible?’.
Then, because you’re up to something, you will surely go to Madeira, either on holiday, or for another reason.. The 25 best things to do in London.
What You'll Discover:
1. Explore Funchal, Madeira’s Capital
It’s best to start your trip to Madeira in Funchal.
The capital of the island lies on the south of the island, plunging over the slopes that fall on to the Atlantic. This is a wonderful place to relax after a flight and enjoy your first experience of the island’s food architecture, gardens, markets, and laid-back attitude.
Take your time to walk about the old town rather than rush from attraction to attraction; the old town area has loads of colourful buildings, local (or more authentic) catering places, shops , churches, and seaside views.
One of my preferred methods of experiencing Funchal is to regard it as your base point, rather than another tourist destination. Wander around aimlessly for an hour or two. Catch some local cuisine. Rest against a local cafe, with an ocean view.
Sometimes those unscripted moments end up being your most memorable.
2. Take the Funchal Cable Car to Monte.
One of the easiest methods of getting a bird’s eye view of Funchal is to travel from the city centre on the Funchal Cable Car. It takes you up to, and then down from, Monte.
The cable car journey, which takes about 15 minutes, rises the equivalent of 560 meters and offers views over the city and Atlantic Ocean. It links the lower part of Funchal to the hilltop village of Monte and is one of the major landmarks of Madeira for tourists. (Visit Madeira)
When you arrive in Monte, there are the gardens and the Monte Palace to visit or you might just prefer to take some time out appreciating the views from the hill tops.
It’s one of these things that you can do when sightseeing without worrying about a serious hike, and I think this is a real plus.
3. Visit Monte Palace Tropical Garden
If you are interested in gardens, photography, or just beautiful places to have a walk without a tight schedule you should spend some time in Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
This garden is about 7.0000 square metres and is home to a magnificent collection of exotic plants, as well as fountains, sculptures, tiles, and many other works of art. (Visit Madeira)
As you walk through the garden the atmosphere changes. For a while you’re surrounded by greenery then lo behold your looking at a koi pond, an odd piece of art.
It’s the kind of place where you should turn your phone off for ten minutes.
Quite frankly.
Just stroll.
4. Hike a Madeira Levada
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Madeira, hiking a levada has to be.
Levadas, ancient irrigation channels with their narrow paths, produce some of the most unusual walks on the island. Rather than walking through the open mountain landscape you might be trekking through woodland, running along the edge of cliffs, past waterfalls and beneath thick foliage.
Madeira ‘s official tourism board indicates that there are many classified walking routes like Levada do Rei, Levada das 25 Fontes, Levada do Risco e Levada dos Cedros. (Visit Madeira)
What is so delightful about levada walking is how personal it can be. You’re not just looking at the Madeira but are moving through it.
Before you go hiking, these are some important notes to remember.
Trail conditions and access are variable. Official Madeira hikes information indicates that PR trails with classification should be privatised using the SIMplifica system. The author advises to determine if a route is open, limited, or closed before you start. (Madeira visit)
So, of course, don’t just take some random blogger’s word from three years ago. Always make sure you check the current Trail Condition before doing your hike.
5. Walk the Levada das 25 Fontes
Levada das 25 Fontes is one of the popular hiking areas in Madeira.
Exploring a green, lush area with something flowing, with the presence of plants, rock walls, and waterfalls, gives a visual feast near to being overdone.
It can be busy, in particular during peak times, because of this it helps to plan your time.
If you’re expecting a leisurely stroll through Madeira’s lush parks and then find yourself unexpectedly in a group, you might feel a little short-changed. Visit at a reasonable hour and relax rather than power through.
6. Stand at the Summit of Pico Ruivo.
Ready to take a step higher?
Pico Ruivo is the highest mountain in Madeira at 1862 metres above sea level, the highest point in the archipelago. From the top of the mountain you can gaze over Madeira’s spectacular mountainous scenery, with good viewing towards places such as Curral das Freiras, and on very clear days as far as Porto Santo and the Desertas. (Visit Madeira)
There are several pathways to reach Pico Ruivo, like the Vereda do Pico Ruivo or the mountain path starting from the top of Pico do Areeiro.
This is not just a “head to the summit selfie” trip. It is the rocks, ridges, clouds, and valleys all round.
If you’re a serious hiker, it deserves a fair two.
7. Explore Pico do Areeiro
Pico do Areeiro, which is of the order of 1818 meters altitude, is another spectacular mountain viewpoint on Madeira.
Even if you are not intending to go on a difficult mountain trek, the high lying terrain already gives you a very different view of the island.
Given the conditions of clouds and weather, the scenery can vary greatly. Either you come in on a bright, expansive view over the mountains, or you’re stood in a cloud.
And to be honest? Both can actually be equally beautiful.
Always check current weather and trail conditions before approaching a mountain trail.
8. Discover the Laurissilva Forest
One of the most important natural riches of Madeira is the Laurissilva Forest.
As UNESCO, it is ‘the largest remaining tract of this type of laurel forest’ and ‘a large part of the site consists of primary forest’. It supports many endemic plants and animals and is an important part of the ecological system of Madeira. It was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999. (UNESCO World Heritage Center)
Just experiencing it can be entirely different from strolling along the coast.
The thick plant growth, the moss on the ground, the old trees, the fog and the tiny pathways all contribute to make the landscape seem almost prehistoric.
If the mountains of Madeira are the dramatic side of the island, the Laurissilva is its mysterious side.
9. Experience the Misty Fanal Forest
Fanal is by far the most atmospheric site in the Laurissilva habitat zone.
The laurel trees in Fanal are one of its main attractions. There are trees here, which are hundreds of years old and some have existed before the discovery of the Madeira archipelago. The official tourism website states the reserve is a peaceful haven (Visit Madeira) and mentions popular walks like PR13 and PR14.
What about the fog?
Fanal has the feel of a fantasy film set when the fog is rolling through those gnarled old trees. Yes, even in good weather the forest has the strange oddity about it.
It’s a photographer’s dream!
Otherwise, it’s just a lovely place to roam around.
10. Swim in Porto Moniz Natural Pools
After hiking through mountains and forests, a swim sounds pretty good.
Travel to Madeira, located on the northwest coast, its dark volcanic rock has formed natural swimming pools filled with seawater.
From the official Madeira tourism website this is also listed as one of the attractions specific to Porto Moniz and overviews that the main site of its facilities now covers around 3800 metres squared. (Visit Madeira)
The whole experience is nice and simple. You have the volcanic ash at your feet and the Atlantic water in front of you, mountains in the background, lots of space to soak up the surroundings.
Porto Moniz can also be included in a short north-coast road trip.
11. Visit Seixal Beach
Many people might not imagine Madeira to be the most obvious first choice for a beach holiday, but the island does have some beautiful beaches.
Seixal is really pretty with the bold green mountains that tower up behind the coast.
That’s the juxtaposition that sticks in the mind: a dark volcanic earth, lush green flora and the blue Atlantic.
As a guide, don’t be surprised if you end up having to pull over more than once while driving along the north coast. Madeira seems to have an uncanny knack of bringing out viewpoints when you are least expecting it!
12. See the Vu da Noiva Waterfall
When taking Madeira’s north coast, make a visit to the viewpoint of Vu da Noiva.
The water falls from the mountainside, over the lush greenery towards the Atlantic below, one of those famous Madeira images of the mountains flowing straight into the sea. The vantage point is officially nominated as one of the key sites in Porto Moniz. (Visit Madeira)
It’s an easy side-trip to an already north-coast planned itinerary, and you don’t have to commit the whole day to it.
13. Walk Ponta de So Loureno
The land in eastern Madeira now is very different.
Ponta de So Loureno, a volcanic peninsula with cliffs, views of the ocean and a lot of less thick vegetation than the rest of the island,
The close to nine-kilometers peninsula, traversed by the well-known track is a report on about six kilometres turn. It is a Partial Nature Reserve. (Visit Madeira)
This is a great option when you want to experience a different side of Madeira.
Imagine instead of walking through trees, you’re traversing a more exposed volcanic landscape, with the Atlantic ocean spreading away in every direction.
We also brought water, sunscreen, and really comfy shoes. Being in the sun is very hot and you don’t get as many shaded places because there aren’t any trees so without somewhere to shade yourself it’s very hot.
14. Visit Santana’s Traditional Houses
For a cultural adventure, go up north to Santana.
The town is renowned for its traditional triangular shaped houses with vibrant facades and roofs made of straw. The design of these houses is not merely aesthetic but is representative of the former building blocks and farming practices on the island. (Visit Madeira)
The natural environment of Santana itself is also worth mentioning with its characteristic looking houses beautiful natural setting, included in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (Visit Madeira)
It’s a good reminder that Madeira is not simply about the landscape.
There is also a human element to this story.
15. Explore Queimadas Forest Park
Another chance to enjoy the lush forest of Madeira is another trip to Queimadas Forest Park near Santana.
It’s a great place for the tourists wanting to combine walking with scenery instead of just stopping at a look out.
The park is connected with the Laurissilva landscape and it leads to the hiking routes within the Amazon forest. (Visit Madeira)
Bring a light jacket, because the weather in the mountains can be quite different from that on the coast you have been enjoying.
16. Visit Cabo Giro Skywalk
Next, a bit of a stomach flip inducing moment.
Cabo Giro. The highlight is the glass platform skywalk soars high above the Atlantic. The cliffs are about 580 meters and the views towards Camara de Lobos and Funchal are spectacular. (Visit Madeira)
The platform automatically returns to the glass, but you are not required to walk out onto the glass.
Looking down is also up to the reader.
But if heights are no problem, then the scenery is incredible.
And if they actually do bother you? You can always appreciate the view without gazing right through the floor.
17. Visit Curral das Freiras
Nestled within the mountains of Madeira is the same dinner valley called Curral das Freiras.
When viewed from the west, the other surrounding peaks render it the most striking inland scenery of the island.
Instead of merely motoring along, why not stop at a viewpoint and have a short while to appreciate the enormity of the valley.
Nothing compares to this different experience than the nature in open coasts, because the mountains are all around here.
18. Go Dolphin and Whale Watching
That is nowhere near the end of even most of Madeira’s adventure if you make it down to the coast.
The surrounding waters teem with marine life and whale- and dolphin-watching trips leave from Funchal, Calheta, and other spots along the coast. The official tourism board mentions dolphins, sperm whales, pilot whales, Bryde’s whales, and turtles and other marine species amongst the wildlife to be seen. (Visit Madeira)
A very helpful piece of information for travellers is that this activity is offered throughout the year, although it is specified that sightings are not always a certainty.
It’s more than just looking for the animal.
Another angle: the view of Madeira from the water, with the island’s towering mountains reaching up from the ocean behind you.
19. Take a Scenic Drive Along the North Coast.
Madeira is a wonderful island for scenic drives.
The northern coast is mainly rewarding, with roads and viewpoints so many mountains, waterfalls, villages, cliffs, and ocean views pass by one after the other.
Build a day around places such as:
- Porto Moniz
- Seixal
- Ribeira da Janela
- So Vicente
- Santana
Town-info tourism – Porto Moniz official tourism info33 PC 31 the area here on the coast is blessed with plenty of viewpoints not least at Ribeira da Janela, Vu da Noiva and a number of high level viewpoints over the ocean. (Visit Madeira)
Don’t over romanticize it.
Let your guests take detours.
20. Enjoy Madeira’s Viewpoints
Madeira can never have enough viewpoints, that’s for sure.
You don’t need an epic three hour walk to stumble upon some amazing scenery. All too often you pull the car over, walk fifty yards and find yourself sat on a cliff top villages forests and the Atlantic stretching out below you.
Look out for viewpoints around:
- Cabo Giro
- Pico Ruivo
- Pico do Areeiro
- Ponta de So Loureno
- Ribeira da Janela
- Curral das Freiras
- Funchal
“It’s a must do” guides on making the most of the island’s panoramas Based on the official tourism board of Madeira: “Viewpoints are a must-go to enjoy the island’s scenery, not only as a destination but also as a stop during hikes and drives.” (Visit Madeira)
21. Explore Madeira’s Gardens
Gardens offer one more of those attractions second only to those provided by the natural landscape, due to the subtropical climate prevailing in the island.
The city and its vicinity offer lush green areas, with a cover of tropical and subtropical plants.
Perhaps the most famous garden, but if you have extra time you might want to look elsewhere.
Greens are also a good pick on a rest day from slow travel.
Such days do not always have to be a distant mountain summit.
Sometimes what you need is a relaxed walk through flowers and plants, and then a long lunch.
22. Taste Madeira’s Local Food and Wine
You simply cannot go to Madeira without sampling some local food.
Look for traditional dishes and drinks like:
- Espetada
- Bolo do Caco
- Black scabbardfish
- Drinks made of the passion fruit
- Wine from Madeira
Food is one of the simplest methods to transform any vacation.
Don’t just pick a restaurant because it is listed online, walk around, see what the people are eating, and order something you’ve never been brave enough to order before.
This is usually where the cutting-edge begins.
23. Watch the Sunset Over the Atlantic
End up somewhere on Madeira’s western or southern coastline one evening after all those hikes and drives.
If the sunset is your thing, you’ll love Ponta do Sol. Just don’t get obsessed with finding the “perfect” place to view it.
The Atlantic handles the majority.
Get into a comfortable position, get a drink of your favourite tipple, and watch the colours sweep across the sky.
This is no cost.
Because it is.
And by the end of a few frenetic days, you’ll still be surprised to have thought about it.
24. Try Canyoning or Another Outdoor Adventure
If there isn’t enough excitement in hiking, there is even more adventure to be had in Madeira.
Per the official tourism board, opportunities to participate on the island include canyoning climbing, coasteering paragliding, trail running, cycling, and a host of other nature based pursuits. (Visit Madeira)
One of the more exhilarating forms of physical activity is canyoneering, which involves hiking rocks, waterfalls, swimming, and technical sections.
For the uninitiated, seek guidance from a local operator who is familiar with the country and take their advice, rather than trying to cobble together your own adventure.
25. Slow Down and Enjoy Madeira Without a Checklist.
That may sound odd after I just handed you 24 things to do.
So just hear me out.
The worst mistake you can make when visiting Madeira is to attempt to do everything.
Madeira isn’t a place for speedy souls, but its riches are to be explored slowly.
Maybe you plan a mountain walk in the morning, then have a rest and a picnic in a village and then come across a hilltop look-out point that you didn’t know anything about, and then to finish watching the sun go down over the sea.
That’s a good day.
You don’t need to go out of the way to catch sights like collectibles.
Best Things to Do in Madeira for Different Travelers.
Not all of us travel in the same way, so here is a more gentle way to whittle down the list.
For those who receive.
Focus on:
- Pico Ruivo
- Pico do Areeiro
- Levada das 25 Fontes
- Levada do Risco
- Ponta de So Loureno
- Laurissilva Forest
There are a host of designated hiking routes within the official Madeira commissioned network, but do check on opening days and the need for reservation before departure. (source: Been Living Too Long)
Like animals?
Focus on:
- Fanal Forest
- Laurissilva Forest
- Porto Moniz
- Seixal
- Ponta de So Loureno
- Whale watching
For couples
Consider:
- Sunset in Ponta do Sol
- Whale watching
- Monte Palace
- Funchal
- 30 Scenic drives
- Madeira Wines tasting
For families
Consider:
- Funchal
- Cable car to the mountain
- Gardens
- Porto Moniz
- Santana
- Leisure walks and viewpoints
Para fotgrafos
Don’t miss:
- Fanal
- Pico Ruivo
- Cabo Giro
- Ponta de So Loureno
- Seixal
- Ribeira da Janela
- Funchal from a height
A Simple 5-Day Madeira Itinerary
Attempting to pack everything into an addition can be exhausting, so here is an easy place to start.
Day 1: Funchal
Stroll through the old town, the city’s marina, and the centre of Funchal.
Take the cable car to Monte and when possible call on Monte Palace.
Day 2: Mountains
Proceed to Pico do Areeiro and, given the present trail state and your hiking skills, venture upon the mountain tracks up to Pico Ruivo.
Verify official trail conditions before departure. (Go to Madeira)
Day 3: North Coast
Heading to Porto Moniz.
Stop at:
- Ribeira da Janela
- Vu da Noiva
- Seixal
- Porto Moniz
Proceed to the natural pools if conditions are favourable.
Day 4: Forest and Waterfalls
Discover the Laurissilva area and select the levada walk that suits you best.
In any case, if forest scenery has an added atmosphere, Fanal is perfect.
Day 5: Eastern Madeira
Then, go to Ponta de So Loureno and further to Machico or other eastern-coast spots.
End your trip on a relaxing note by having your meal and watching the sunset.
How many days should you plan for Madeira?
I would suggest a minimum of five days if you want a decent blend of mountains, forests , coast and Funchal without being constantly aware of the time.
3 days.
Concentrate on Funchal, one of the hikes and one of the coastal roundtrips.
5d
There’ll be no need to cram Funchal mountains, the north coast, forest, and eastern Madeira into a single trip.
(Dark Gray) Half a week to gain insight into the usefulness of mobility infrastructure design, including headroom assessment.
One week gives you much more breathing room.
You could go out trekking one day, then relax the next, visit a village, take a boat ride and still have room for finding surprises everywhere.
More than 10 days
Perfeito caso for que hiking a priority or voc just terase at the slowest travel speeds.
Practical Tips for Visiting Madeira
Check the hiking condition before you step foot into the hike.
This is of particular importance.
Rest assured, Madeira’s official hiker’s info states that hiking trails are open, restricted, and closed, and encourage you to check the status before hiking. PR classified trails currently require reservations for the time being. (See Madeira)
Please do not presume that the weather is identical everywhere.
The terrain in the mountains on an island such as Madeira often means the conditions can change from place to place.
It may be a sunny day on the coast and have clouds or be much cooler up in the mountains.
Layers are your friends.
Wear good shoes
Not much of a hiker? Comfortable shoes with a good grip will help you out on your trip.
Certain perspectives are more accessible to individuals who are physically active; but, the countryside in Madeira can turn hilly and rugged at an unexpectedly rapid rate.
Schedule time in your plan
This could be my most valuable tip.
Don’t overbook yourself.
When you go to Madeira, don’t be surprised to have a five-minute photo stop turn into a thirty-minute one because the scene is too gorgeous to keep walking.
Key Takings
- The most difficult thing about planning things to do in Madeira isn’t going to be finding any.
- It’s deciding what to omit.
- On one small island you have volcanic coastlines, towering mountains, ancient forests, cascading waterfalls, natural swimming pools, old style villages, lush gardens, best viewpoints and a much livelier ocean ecosystem!
- And that’s exactly the nice thing about Madeira.
- In one day, you can be walking in the clouds at 1800 meters and then have dinner sitting looking out over the Atlantic. Walk through 10 million year-old rainforests, and have dinner in a lively city by the sea. One day chasing waterfalls, and the next resting doing nothing.
- This last point is noteworthy as well.
- When I think about my dream trip to Madeira, I don’t think about someone belting around now with their head in their phone and their list in the other. I think of someone pulling over just because the mountains look amazing, taking the long way because it looks better, sitting down to some local food, and letting the island surprise them.
- Make your shopping list.
- Select your hikes.
- Book what must be booked.
- But also leave a bit of room for the unanticipated.
- Because at times, the absolute best adventures in Madeira are ones that you didn’t even think of doing.
Additional Resources
- Visit Madeira (Official Tourism Board): The official site for planning, activities and travel info across the archipelago.
- UNESCO: Laurisilva of Madeira: The World Heritage listing for the laurel forest, inscribed in 1999.
- Visit Portugal: Madeira’s Gastronomy: Portugal’s national tourism board on espetada, bolo do caco, black scabbardfish and other local dishes.
