About Madeira
Madeira is a Portuguese island in the Atlantic about 1,000 kilometres south-west of Lisbon and around 500 kilometres west of Morocco. Portuguese sailors claimed the uninhabited island in 1419, naming it after the dense forests (madeira means wood) that covered it, and it soon became a wealthy producer of sugar and later of the fortified wine that still bears its name. Today it is an autonomous region of Portugal, with its capital at Funchal on the sunny south coast.
The island is volcanic and steep, rising to 1,862 metres at Pico Ruivo. Its laurel forest, the Laurisilva, a relic of the ancient forests that covered southern Europe millions of years ago, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hikers come for the levadas, irrigation channels carved into the mountains since the fifteenth century, which now form a network of walking trails through forests and along cliffs. Funchal combines a historic centre, botanical gardens and the famous wicker toboggan ride from Monte, while the island is also the birthplace of footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, whose name graces the airport.
Our guides describe where to stay on the island, the best walks and sights, and practical tips on driving, flights, weather and costs.
Madeira city guides
- Where to stay in Madeira
Madeira is small, but its steep terrain makes journeys slower than distances suggest. Most visitors stay on the sunnier south coast, especially in or near Funchal, and explore the island by car or tour. Staying in central Funchal puts you close to the cathedral, the Mercado dos Lavradores, the marina and the cable car to Monte. The Old Town along Rua de Santa Maria is famous for its painted doors art project and restaurants. Hotels, guesthouses and apartments are abundant. It's ideal for those without a car. West of the centre, the Lido area has many large resort hotels with pools, sea views and a promenade along the coast. It's popular with couples and families, and the Lido pool complex offers sea swimming. Buses connect to the centre in 10 to 15 minutes.
- Things to do in Madeira
Madeira is a paradise for hikers, nature lovers and those seeking a gentle pace of life. Madeira has more than 2,000 kilometres of levadas, many with paths beside them. The Levada das 25 Fontes and Levada do Risco at Rabaçal lead to waterfalls. The Levada do Caldeirão Verde passes through tunnels and laurel forest. The Levada dos Balcões is an easy walk to a viewpoint. Bring a torch for tunnels and check trail status, as some trails close after storms, and many popular routes now charge non-residents a small access fee. This classic mountain hike connects the island's third highest peak, Pico do Arieiro (1,818 metres), with the highest, Pico Ruivo, via tunnels and stairs along dramatic ridges. Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro above a sea of clouds is unforgettable. Parts of the trail have closed due to fires and damage, so check before going.
- Practical tips for visiting Madeira
Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) is near Santa Cruz, about 20 kilometres from Funchal. Its runway, extended on pillars over the sea, is famous for challenging landings, and strong winds can cause diversions. Aerobus and SAM buses connect to Funchal; taxis cost about €30 to €40. Renting a car is the best way to explore, but roads are steep and winding, and old roads are narrow. Many new tunnels make travel faster. Buses connect Funchal to most areas but are slow outside the city. Taxis and tours are alternatives. Madeira is mild year-round, with temperatures of 19 to 26°C on the coast. Summer is warm and dry, winter mild with more rain. Mountains can be cold, foggy and wet.
Destination overview · Madeira
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What to see in Madeira
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What to do
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