Looking for an escape to a place that has stunning natural beauty alongside a rich cultural heritage? Look no further than the Portuguese island of Madeira. This stunning island offers visitors a range of attractions and activities that showcase its natural beauty, from hiking in the mountains to relaxing on the beach. Not to mention, its vibrant culture offers a myriad of festivals, events, and traditional cuisine to explore. In this post, we’ll take you through some of the best attractions and things to do in Madeira, so you can make the most out of your visit to this island paradise.

The 12 Best Day Trips in Madeira

1. Madeira the Banana Tour Farm Visit
2. Lisbon Sailing Tour by Night
3. Funchal Sightseeing Tour by Sidecar
4. From Funchal or Canico Pico Do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike
5. From Funchal or Canico Private Hiking Trip With a Local
6. Full Day Ponta De Sao Lourenco Natural Reserve
7. Funchal Private Service Caldeirao Verde Walk
8. Funchal 3d Fun Art Museum
9. Funchal Nuns Valley Monte Tour
10. Madeira Full Day Porto Moniz Jeep Tour
11. Funchal 3 in 1 48 Hour Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour
12. Shore Excursions Funchal Madeira Short Visit

The 12 Best Day Trips in Madeira

1. Madeira the Banana Tour Farm Visit

Explore the process of banana production in Madeira on this private tour with a local guide. We’ll visit a local banana farm in Funchal to learn how this tasty fruit grows on the island. Our tour also includes a visit to the RG3 Viewpoint for a panoramic view of Funchal. Hotel, port, or apartment pickup and drop-off are included in addition to private transportation, free onboard WIFI, and a taste of the local bananas. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 6 years or those with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs.

2. Lisbon Sailing Tour by Night

Experience a nighttime city sightseeing boat ride during your visit to Lisbon. Departing from marina Doca do Bom Sucesso in Belem, you will sail up the Tagus river passing by several illuminated monuments such as the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and Ajuda Palace. Enjoy the stunning nighttime cityscape of Lisbon and see the Museum of Art Architecture and Technology Museum, Christ Statue, and other city highlights. The crew will provide information about the monuments that you pass by, but the key aim is to relax and enjoy the nighttime scenery. The package includes one drink per person (beer or soft drink), light snacks (peanuts or crackers), insurance, taxes, and one-of-a-kind experience of enjoying Lisbon by moonlight aboard a sailing vessel. If you happen to tour during a full moon, the experience becomes even more breathtaking!

3. Funchal Sightseeing Tour by Sidecar

Discover Funchal’s historical centre and Old Town areas on a stylish sidecar while admiring stunning ocean views. Ride through narrow winding roads and learn about Funchal´s history, inhabitants’ ways of life, typical products, and monuments from your driver. Among the monuments and notable sites, you’ll see Museu das Cruzes, the convent of Santa Clara, the main Cathedral, the Jesuits Church, the Municipal Square and Garden, and the City Hall building. Take plenty of photos while admiring Old Town’s painted doors and walls and the old mountain-carved road. This is an excellent opportunity to discover the 600-year-old city while having fun on a sidecar.

4. From Funchal or Canico Pico Do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Madeira Island’s highest mountain with a hassle-free car transfer from Pico Do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo. Admire lush vegetation as you hike at your own pace on paths that are accessible only by foot. Capture stunning views of the sun rising over Madeira from the summit of Pico Do Arieiro and snap pictures of the famed “Stairway to Heaven” path. Marvel at the brilliant colors of the Madeira firecrest and other bright birds along the trail. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 16 years, pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, people afraid of heights, people with vertigo, or people with recent surgeries. Hotel pickup and drop-off, guide, food, and drinks are included for your convenience.

5. From Funchal or Canico Private Hiking Trip With a Local

Discover the stunning natural landscape of Madeira on a private hiking trip with a local guide. Enjoy a customized tour to suit your preferences whatever your physical fitness level. Whether you want to see waterfalls, forests, high mountains or sea cliffs, your local guide will suggest the perfect trip. Start with pickup at your hotel or apartment, then listen to your guide’s commentary as you drive to the start point of the hike. Walk through beautiful nature and experience the most magical places in Madeira. If possible, you can finish with a cold or hot drink (not included) before being dropped off back at your hotel. In this experience, some of the most beautiful walking trails in Madeira Island are suggested. All tours are scheduled on the least busy day in each area to provide you a calm and peaceful experience.

6. Full Day Ponta De Sao Lourenco Natural Reserve

This full day tour takes you to Ponta de São Lourenço, the eastern peninsula of Madeira Island. The peninsula is known for having different vegetation from the rest of the island, with its lack of trees and low vegetation featuring the Everlasting and the Ice Flower.

Ponta de São Lourenço is classified as a partial natural reserve and part of the European network of important community sites – Natura 2000. The location is home to several protected seabirds, including the Cory’s shearwater, Madeiran storm-petrel, Bulwer’s petrel, and common tern. You might also spot other bird species such as the Berthelot’s pipit, goldfinch, and canary.

During the walk, enjoy breathtaking views of the crystal clear water and the rugged coastline. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and anyone who wants to experience the unique landscape and wildlife of Madeira Island.

7. Funchal Private Service Caldeirao Verde Walk

Experience the natural beauty of Madeira on the Funchal Private Service Caldeirao Verde Walk. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along a verdant path and take in the stunning views of the Madeira Laurissilva forest. See local birds, viewpoints, fauna, and tunnels as you make your way towards the Queimadas’ House, a true fairy tale oasis. Keep an eye out for waterfall cascading over the cold, crystalline lagoon at Caldeirao Verde. This intimate private tour guarantees a safe, memorable experience all year round. Remember to bring your flashlight and helmet when exploring the tunnels. Join us for an unforgettable nature walk in Madeira’s breathtaking landscape.

8. Funchal 3d Fun Art Museum

Experience a different concept of museum which combines art and fun in a relaxed way at Funchal 3D Fun Art Museum in Madeira. Encounter 40 different scenarios including 3D images and optical illusions which will allow you to enter a world of fantasy and imagination whilst helping you believe that anything is possible. Have a dinosaur as a pet or take a safari, be Van Gogh’s doctor or see the world upside down. Even have your head being served on a table, fly through the cosmos, and drink a wine served by God in Michelangelo’s “Creation of Adam”! The museum combines the science of visual perception with the magic of illusion and makes everything seem possible. Photographs are allowed and even encouraged in this space appropriate for all ages to visit. Visit Funchal 3D Fun Art Museum and have Madeira folklore dance on your way out. Book your tour now and be welcome!

9. Funchal Nuns Valley Monte Tour

Depart from Funchal and embark on a journey to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Madeira’s western mountains and valleys with the Funchal Nuns Valley Monte Tour. Take in the stunning views from the Pico dos Barcelos, one of the island’s most unique viewpoints, before making your way up to Eira do Serrado. Try some traditional Madeiran foods, including chestnut cake, and visit the Nuns Valley to discover its stunning scenery. See where the remains of the last Austro-Hungarian emperor lie in the Monte while experiencing one of Madeira’s oldest modes of transport with a thrilling toboggan ride. The tour includes a guided tour, sleigh (toboggan) ride, hotel pickup and drop-off, free liquor tasting in Nuns Valley Village, free entrance to the nuns house and Chestnut Museum, as well as snacks and drinks. The tour also offers pickup for cruise liner guests from the meeting point at the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum, and a pick up from Cruiseliner Terminal (with an additional cost of €4.50 per person). Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the best attractions and experience the most exciting things to do in Madeira.

10. Madeira Full Day Porto Moniz Jeep Tour

Experience an off-road adventure and discover the most beautiful and attractive places in Madeira with the Madeira Full Day Porto Moniz Jeep Tour. Travel in comfort on a Land Rover Discovery as you explore the west side of the island, including major highlights such as Paul da Serra, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and São Vicente. You’ll have the chance to visit the volcanic caves in São Vicente, and enjoy natural swimming pools in Seixal and Porto Moniz. This tour offers pickup and drop-off services, insurance according to Portuguese law, and the guidance of knowledgeable guides. Don’t forget your camera to capture unforgettable moments during your off-road adventure in Madeira.

11. Funchal 3 in 1 48 Hour Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour

Discover the extraordinary beauty of Madeira with a 2 or 5-day ticket for the Funchal 3 in 1 48 Hour Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour. Explore the lush landscapes and exotic flora of Madeira at your own pace and jump off at the sites in the capital of Funchal that interest you most. The tour takes you through Funchal’s quaint cobblestone streets and offers breathtaking views from observation points such as the one at Pico dos Barcelos. Hop on and off at any of the 30 stops along the route and get access to the surroundings including the picturesque village of Câmara de Lobos and the cliffs of Cabo Girão, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The tour includes a Wine tasting in Blandy’s Wine lodge, a visit to the museum and a visit to Bordal Madeira’s embroid. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to discover Madeira.

12. Shore Excursions Funchal Madeira Short Visit

Discover the best that Funchal and its surroundings have to offer on a private shore excursion. During this short visit to Madeira, explore the charming Camara de Lobos fishing village, ride a toboggan in Monte, and visit the picturesque Nun’s Valley. You’ll get a comprehensive overview of Madeira’s top sights while learning about the local history and culture from your guide. This private excursion ensures a personalized experience, with only your party in the vehicle. You’ll even get to snack on local Madeira cake and wine. The tour includes cruise port pickup and drop-off, and gratuities are also covered. The driver will meet you directly outside of the cruise terminal at the specified pickup time holding a name board with your name. Join this tour and make the most of your short time in Madeira.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Madeira

Madeira, the Portuguese archipelago, is known for its stunning natural features, captivating history, and warm hospitality. As a tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year from all over the world, it’s common for travelers to have a lot of questions about this beautiful place. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Madeira.

1. When Is the Best Time to Visit Madeira?

The best time to visit Madeira is from May to September, as this is the period of the year when the weather is warm, dry and sunny. However, Madeira has a very mild climate throughout the year due to its location, which makes it an excellent destination year-round. Even in winter, temperatures rarely go below 15°C, so you can enjoy the outdoors and experience Madeira’s natural beauty in any season.

2. What Is the Currency in Madeira?

The currency of Madeira is the Euro (€). You can find plenty of foreign exchange booths around the island, but it’s best to change your money at a bank, which will usually give you a better exchange rate.

3. What Is the Language Spoken in Madeira?

The official language of Madeira is Portuguese, as it is part of Portugal. However, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. You can also find people speaking French, German, and Spanish, among other languages.

4. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Madeira?

Madeira has a lot of must-see attractions, and it’s impossible to list them all. However, some of the top attractions include:

• The Levadas Walks, a network of hiking trails that run along the island’s irrigation channels and provide stunning views of the island’s natural beauty
• The Monte Cable Car, which takes you up to Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira’s highest peaks
• The Old Town of Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, which is full of historic buildings, museums, and restaurants
• The Botanical Garden, where you can find a vast collection of plants from Madeira and around the world
• The Fish Market, where you can experience the local culture and cuisine of Madeira

5. What Are Some Popular Festivals in Madeira?

Madeira is famous for its festivals, which are held throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals include:

• New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display, which is listed in the Guinness World Records as the largest fireworks display in the world
• Carnival, a colorful and vibrant festival that takes place before Lent and includes parades, dances, and costumes
• Flower Festival, which celebrates the arrival of spring and features flower displays, parades, and concerts
• Atlantic Festival, a music and culture festival that takes place in June and includes music concerts, firework displays, and traditional food and drinks
• Wine Festival, which celebrates Madeira’s world famous wine and includes wine-tasting sessions, concerts, and parades

6. What Are Some Traditional Foods in Madeira?

Madeira is renowned for its gastronomy, and there are plenty of traditional dishes and drinks to try. Some of the most famous include:

• Bolo do Caco, a type of bread that is cooked on a hot stone and served with garlic butter
• Espetada, skewered meat that is cooked over charcoal and served with potatoes and salad
• Black Scabbardfish, a fish that is unique to Madeira and is usually served with banana and fried potatoes
• Lapas, limpets that are cooked in garlic butter and served in their shells
• Poncha, a traditional drink made with Aguardente (sugar cane alcohol), honey, and lemon juice

7. What is the Dress Code in Madeira?

There is no strict dress code in Madeira, but it’s generally recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. The dress code is casual, so you can wear comfortable clothes and shoes during your stay.

8. Is Madeira Safe?

Madeira is one of the safest tourist destinations in Europe. Crime rates in Madeira are low, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. However, it’s always recommended to take the usual precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and not leaving valuables unattended.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Madeira

Madeira is a beautiful island located off the coast of Portugal, offering breathtaking scenery and an array of activities to enjoy. As a tourist, there are plenty of things to do and see on this island, but choosing how to spend your time can be overwhelming. In this guide, you will discover the best ways to spend your time in Madeira, whether you’re looking for nature trails, scenic drives, or simply relaxing.

1. Explore the Levada Walks

One of the most popular attractions of Madeira is its unique network of irrigation channels, or levadas, that feeds the island’s water supply. This system of narrow paths, built along the levadas, offers incredible opportunities for hiking and exploring. There are over 2,000 km of levada walks on the island, ranging from easy to challenging routes, so you’re sure to find a trail that suits your fitness level.

Tips:

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip on the soles
• Bring enough water and snacks with you, especially if you’re hiking for a long distance
• Check the weather forecast before you head out, as some trails are closed during heavy rainfalls or high winds
• Respect the environment and follow the signs and instructions along the trail

2. Take a Scenic Drive

Madeira’s winding and scenic roads offer some spectacular views. Rent a car and explore the island at your own pace, stopping off at the various viewpoints along the way. A particularly popular and stunning drive is from Funchal, the island’s capital, up to Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak in Madeira. The views from the summit are breathtaking, so make sure to take your camera.

Tips:

• Drive on the right-hand side of the road and be aware of the narrow and winding roads
• Take frequent breaks to enjoy the scenery and to prevent fatigue
• Fill up your car’s tank before heading out, as petrol stations can be scarce in some areas
• Check the weather forecast before your drive, as fog and rain can affect visibility

3. Visit a Traditional Market

Explore the traditional markets in Madeira for an authentic experience of the local culture. The Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal is particularly popular, offering fresh produce, flowers, and crafts. Here you can taste local specialties such as the famous Madeira wine, poncha (a traditional alcoholic drink made with sugarcane and orange juice), and bolo de mel (a traditional Madeiran honey cake).

Tips:

• Go early in the morning when the market is less crowded
• Bring cash, as not all vendors accept credit cards
• Be polite and ask for permission before taking photos of the vendors and their goods
• Take some time to chat with the locals and learn about their traditions and way of life

4. Relax on the Beach

Madeira may not be known for its beaches, but there are still plenty of places to relax and soak up the sun. Praia Formosa in Funchal is one of the island’s most popular beaches, offering black sand and calm waters for swimming. If you’re looking for something more secluded, try Porto Santo Island, a smaller island located off the coast of Madeira. This island boasts nine km of pristine golden sand beaches.

Tips:

• Apply sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days
• Bring a beach towel and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
• Respect the environment and dispose of your trash properly
• Check the tide times before you go, as the waves can be strong at high tide

5. Visit a Botanical Garden

Madeira is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, and there are plenty of botanical gardens to explore. The Monte Palace Tropical Garden in Funchal is one of the island’s most popular attractions, featuring a vast collection of exotic plants from around the world. Another must-see is the Madeira Botanical Garden, which showcases the unique endemic plants of the island.

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes, as some gardens have uneven paths or steep inclines
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning beauty of the gardens
• Respect the environment and do not pick flowers, damage plants or leave litter behind
• Read the information panels to learn more about the plants and their habitats

Book Your Tour Now

Madeira is a destination that offers something for everyone, whether you’re an avid hiker, a beach lover, or a culture enthusiast. By exploring the levada walks, taking a scenic drive, visiting the traditional markets, relaxing on the beach, or visiting a botanical garden, you’ll be able to make the most out of your time on this beautiful island. Just remember to prepare in advance and respect the environment and local culture, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.