You have a long weekend and want to jump on a plane to discover a new place.
Madeira is worth a visit with natural pools, mountain peaks, coastal cliffs, dolphins, levadas and so much more.
I have visited every corner of the island, and created 4 itineraries for your 3 days in Madeira:
- An outdoor adventure with some of my favorite scenery on the island and not too much driving
- 3 days in Funchal, if you don’t want to drive
- A long weekend in Madeira itinerary with a taste of everything (intense program, but you can remove stops as you prefer)
- 3 days of hiking, for those who just need to move!
I wish you a wonderful trip to Madeira!
Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Madeira:
My favorite platform to rent a car in Madeira: DiscoverCars
The unmissable boat tour: Catamaran tour to go whale watching
My favorite excursion from Funchal: 4×4 tour of East Madeira
MMy favorite places to stay in Funchal: Les Suites at the Cliff Bay (Luxury) – Sé Boutique Hotel (4 stars) – Market Place by Storytellers (apartments)
My favorite places to stay outside Funchal: Saccharum Resort near a beach (Luxury) – Estalagem da Ponta do Sol (4 stars) – Engho Velho Hotel (mid-range)
Madeira in 3 days – essentials to know
Is 3 days enough to visit Madeira? Is it worth it?
I will help you make the best of your 3 days, but I want to be totally honest with you.
3 days is really short to visit Madeira. The island is out of the way and flights are often delayed because of wind.
Therefore, you will only get a little glimpse of what the island is about.
However, it is a stunning island, so you will be fascinated even with only 3 days since the island is not that big.
Getting there
Considering the short time, I would only consider it, if I can find a direct flight or semi-direct flight (landing only to take other passengers, not changing flights).
Check out what flights are available.
And get more tips in my complete guide to visiting Madeira.
My must-sees
If it is you first time in Madeira, I think you should see at least the following:
- Pico do Arieiro, the impressive mountains peaks here you see the coast
- The fishing village Camara do Lobos
- The Monte Palace Tropical Garden
- The Dragon tail of Madeira at Ponta de Sao Louranço
- One of the cable-cars (outside Funchal) – see my list
- If you can hike, one of the levada walks
Do you need a car?
With 3 days, you can plan an itinerary with and without a car.
However, to have more freedom to explore you favorite places, the car is the best options. Don’t worry, it is not as crazy as some people write. Read my article about driving in Madeira.
Need to rent a car? My tips:
- Compare car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best customer-rated comparison sites!
- Choose the car and company you prefer (with enough power for steep roads)
- Consider their full coverage option – I always take it for peace of mind!
- It is an island, the number of cars is limited. Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
See my 36 tips about renting a car in Madeira
Where to stay in Madeira for 3 days
With only 5 days, I recommend you stay in a single place and get around.
However if you want to be able to see more, you can plan a road trip and change hotel every night.
For each itinerary I recommend a different place to stay, but here is an overall view.
The best choice for most people:
- For a choice of restaurants and if you don’t rent a car – See best rated accommodations in Funchal
- For luxury resorts, check out the options in the Lido area in Funchal
Other ideas depending on your interests:
- For a sandy beach – See best rated accommodations in Machico
- For a quiet village in beautiful scenery – See best rated accommodations in Porto da Cruz
- For a practical location to explore the island – See best rated accommodations in Ribeira Brava
- To enjoy the natural pools – See best rated accommodations in Porto Moniz
More tips on my article about where to stay in Madeira with hotel suggestions.
In Funchal, some hotel suggestions:
- LUXURY – Les Suites The Cliff Bay in a stunning environment – see photos and availability
- Luxury in Old Town: Hotel the Vine, in the old center – see photos and availability
- Boutique: Sé Boutique Hotel, in the old center – see photos and availability
- 4 stars: Hotel Alto Lido, in the Lido area – see photos and availability
- Apartments: Market Place by Storytellers in a pedestrian street in the heart of Funchal – see photos and availability
Find our more in my article about the best place to stay in Funchal.
About the following Madeira 3-day itineraries
We can all have different objectives when going away for a long weekend.
Therefore I have created different itineraries, for different types of travelers:
- Outdoor adventure (my favorite)
To get a snapshot of the nature in Madeira: mountains, coast and volcanic history. - Relaxed in Funchal (no car)
history, garden, dolphins - Highlights of Madeira
Intense, but you get to see most of the famous places. - Hiking break
Madeira is a hiker paradise, and you may want your steps in during this long weekend
Itinerary 1 – Best of nature with 3 days in Madeira
Let’s start with my favorite itineraries.
It is not the typical one you can see everywhere, I will share more classic ones after
.But if, like me, you are ready for longer days to be able to see and experience a lot of what the Nature in Madeira has to offer, this is the option for you.
Best place to stay for this itinerary
For this itinerary, I recommend staying in an unusual place: Porto da Cruz.
It is a small village surrounded my stunning scenery.
You could stay at:
- Hotel Costa Linda – Check out photos and availability
- or Hotel Vila Bela – Check out photos and availability
- or See best rated accommodations in Porto da Cruz
How to get around
And for this itinerary, a car is essential.
Compare rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com.
Day 1 – North-West coast
Stop 1 – Levada do Caldeirao Verde (PR9)
Let’s start with one of the famous Levada walks in Madeira.
It starts at the Parque Floresta das Queimadas. It is a long flat walk in lush vegetation. It leads to a tall waterfall known as Caldeirao Verde.
This walk is pretty special. First, there are the weeping walls with green vegetation. And it is also an adventure, because you have to make your way through 5 tunnels. Some of them are quite long and very dark. Kids love it! Adults have mixed feeling, especially when they bump their head…
This waterfall walk can also be completed with a loop to a canyon and other waterfalls known as Caldeirao do Inferno, which is quite impressive (although difficult to photograph).
To Caldeirao Verde – 13km/8mi return – 5h30 return.
To Caldeirao do Inferno – add 4,4km/2,7mi return – add 2h return (worth it!)
But you can choose to only walk a little section of the hike through the forest and along the weeping walls before turning around, to go visit other places.
To be honest, the best part is the hike, not really he Caldeirao Verde waterfall.
Stop 2 – Rocha do Navio
Continue with my favorite cable car.
First enjoy the view from the top. The green mountains dropping into the deep blue sea are spectacular!
And, as you ride down to sea level, you will be able to several waterfalls.
In my opinion, it has be best scenery. You can even see a traditional Santana house in the gardens.
The name Rocha do Navio’ refers to the sinking of a Dutch ship in the nineteenth century.
Learn more on my Rocha do Navio article.
Potential stop if not hiking: Santana
One of the largest attractions in Madeira, the Park is an ethnographic village where you can learn more about the culture, traditions and crafts.
The most appreciated feature is the set up inside old traditional houses with triangular thatched rooftops.
You can also explore the whole park with gardens and a lake.
Stop 3 – Ponta de Sao Louranço
Ponta de Sao Louranço is the best place on the island to admire the volcanic origin of Madeira.
You walk along the famous “dragon tail” of Madeira surrounded by bare landscapes and colorful rocks.
Along the hike there are many viewpoints with steep cliffs, sea stacks and magnificent views towards the sea or back toward the island.
You can do as much as walking you want on the trail and turn around. It is impressive and colorful!
Or you can just admire the views near the carpark or from Ponta do Rosto
The entire hike is 6.4km/4mi which means 3 to 4h to the Sardinha Café and return.
Day 2 – Mountains
Stop 1 – Pico do Arieiro
Get up early and go watch the sunrise at Pico do Areiro.
Plan to arrive at least 30minutes before to see the colors changes and hopefully see the sun rise over the clouds. If you feel like it, do some of the hike towards Pico Ruivo. You can walk 1h one way for a 2h return a hike and see a lot. Learn more.
Stop 2 – Verada dos Balcones
This is an easy walk that gives you a feel for what Madeira is all about:
- You get to a viewpoint with the mountain peaks
- From the viewpoint, you can also see the lush valley all the way to the sea
- There are many birds
- The area is covered with ancient trees and lush vegetation
- There is a section of the walk along a levada, which is great for those who can’t do one of the big levada walks.
- 3Km (2mi) return – Plan 1h for plenty of pictures
Stop 3 – Monte Palace Tropical Garden (if you have not done a long hike at Pico do Arieiro)
Take the Cable car to high above town. There you can visit one of the gardens.
Madeira is s also famous for its man-made natural beauty a.k.a. its gardens. There are several in Funchal, but if you have time only for one, I strongly recommend the Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
Lush vegetation surrounds the walking paths that lead to water feature, stones, sculptures, tiles, museums and various structures.
Day 3 – North-West coast
Stop 1 – Sao Vicente
First, enjoy the drive from Porto Moniz to Sao Vicente
Here the mountains are really vertical and the drive is one of the best in Madeira.
Yes it is a tortuous road, but there is always protection on the side of the road. I do have vertigo and I was not stressed on this road.
The views are really stunning.
You can enjoy a first stop at Sao Vicente. But not long, it gets better!
Stop 2 – Seixal
Your next stop is Seixal.
It has a black sand beach which is clearly the most beautiful beach on the island.
Plus it has natural pools with a lava arch.
It is what I imagine when thinking of an old volcanic island: smooth black sand with steep cliffs with lush vegetation.
There is even a small waterfall on the beach!
Learn more
Stop 3 – Ribeira da Janela
You next stop is Ribeira da Janela.
It is very easy to park at the bottom near the beach.
There is a staircase to a viewing platforms to enjoy the rocky pillars in the sea.
Or you can walk on the beach for a better look, but wear proper walking shoes, the rocks are unstable.
Learn more.
Stop 4 – Porto Moniz
Bring your swimsuit. After this long hike, you deserve to go swim in the Porto Moniz Natural pools surrounded by lava. A wonderful and unusual experience.
There are 2 areas: the ones that have been made smoother for public use and the more natural ones, near the fort.
I recommend first enjoying them on foot: the long strips of lava, the shades of blue and green, the island in the background.
But then, make sure to get into the water (seawater). The place is ideal for those who love swimming and the views are mesmerizing. Such a relaxing place to swim.
However, don’t swim between 10am and 3pm, when groups are visiting on day trips. I recommend staying later and even spending the night to have a more peaceful experience.
See my complete guide.
Drive back – miradors
Enjoy the drive back with some viewpoints such as Miradouro Veu da Noiva for the waterfall.
The drive from Porto Moniz back to Porto da Cruz is 1h10.
You can find all those stops and more, with practical information (maps, driving times, difficulty to access) in my eBook:
Plan your dream trip in Madeira thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 120+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 260+ original photos to help you choose
Itinerary 2 – Madeira without a car: 3 days in Funchal
Best place to stay for this itinerary
For this itinerary, I recommend staying in Funchal. 2 options:
- for apartment and house rentals choose the city center and the hills above – see best rated accommodations in Funchal
- for hotels with pools, choose the Lido area – see best rated accommodations in the area
Day 1 – Hop-on hop-off in Funchal and Camara de Lobos
Take it easy to get to know the island.
Use the hop-on hop-off bus to explore Funchal. Don’t miss:
- the old town,
- the Jesuit College
- and Farmers Market
Plus it goes to the village of Camara de Lobos, a fishing village with a charming old center. Great place to relax, walk and have lunch.
How long it takes
- If staying on the bus – 1h35 loop
- Hop-on and Hop-off to see as much as you want
See hop-on hop-off tickets
If you want to learn more about Funchal, you can join a guided walking tour – See details, availability & book
Day 2 – Pico do Arieiro, Santana & East Madeira
It is a day with a little bit of everything: coastal views, mountain views, town, history, culture…You will learn a lot about the history and geology of Madeira and visit iconic locations.
Main stops
- The viewpoint of Portela, one of the most beautiful on the island with views of the Eagle Rock (Penha D’Aguia)
- The Santana traditional thatched houses, iconic of Madeira island
- The magnificent Pico do Arieiro, 3rd summit of the island with impressive views of the jagged mountain peaks
How long it takes
- Full day – a loop around the Eastern part of Madeira island
- Machico is 30min from Funchal
- Santana is 20min away from Machico
- Pico do Arieiro is 45min away from Santana, and 40min away from Funchal
Group tours a 4×4 but you can visit all those locations renting a normal car.
See details, availability & book
Day 3 – Boat, cable car, garden and sled ride
Stop 1 – Dolphins and whales
Go on a boat tour to spot dolphins and whales.
A great number of whales pass through Madeira each year. Research says that 28 different species of the 78 known can be seen on this island, from various dolphin species to great blue whales.
Tours are running year round. The highest quantity of species is from April to September.
Learn more
See available tours:
- Catamaran tour including swimming under Cabo Girao – See options & availability
- Speed boat tour – See details & availability
- Swim with dolphin tour – See details & availability
Stop 2 – Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Take the Cable car to high above town. There you can visit one of the gardens.
Madeira is s also famous for its man-made natural beauty a.k.a. its gardens. There are several in Funchal, but if you have time only for one, I strongly recommend the Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
Lush vegetation surrounds the walking paths that lead to water feature, stones, sculptures, tiles, museums and various structures.
Stop 3 – Sled Ride
Get back downtown by enjoying a toboggan sled ride.
It is one of the most unique experiences in Madeira. Very unusual.
You are sitting in a basket and transported down the steep streets back to the center of Funchal.
And how are you breaking, may you ask… well, 2 men in traditional costumes will use their feet to balance, steer and brake the ride.
Alternative day – Porto Moniz natural pools
Book a tour to the northeast tip of Madeira.
The highlight of the tour are the natural pools bu you will see much more!
Swimming in the natural pools of Porto Moniz was one of my favorite experiences on the island. Even just looking at them with the island in the background and the fort on the side. I love lava rock formations…
Note – not all tours include time to go swimming.
Main stops
- Porto Moniz Natural Pools – created by lava and filled with sea water
- The Fanal Forest – with ancient Laurrissilva trees
- Seixal natural black sand beach – sand beaches are rare on the island, and this one is stunning with the green lush cliffs next to it.
- But you can also book other tours that combine Porto Moniz with other parts of the island, such as wine tasting or the Skywalk at Cabo Girao
How long it takes
- Full day
- Porto Moniz is 1h drive away from Funchal
See details, availability & book
Or see alternative tours that also include Porto Moniz
Need to rent a car in Madeira?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
- And choose a car not too big, to easily manoeuver
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
Itinerary 3 – Long week-end in Madeira: famous places
In this itinerary, I jammed-pack all the most famous places to visit on the island, for those who want to see as much as possible in those 3 days. They require quite a lot of driving and not spending too much time at each stop.
This is like a buffet. You can remove those that do not interest you for lighter days or to be able to spend more time somewhere.
This itinerary does not include hiking to be able to fit it all in!
Best place to stay for this itinerary
For this itinerary, I recommend staying in Funchal. 2 options:
- for apartment and house rentals choose the city center and the hills above – see best rated accommodations in Funchal
- for hotels with pools, choose the Lido area – see best rated accommodations in the area
Or you could also head west to Ribeira Brava and Ponta do Sol, 2 charming smaller towns – See best rated accommodations
How to get around
And for this itinerary, a car is essential if you want to see as much as possible
Compare rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com.
Day 1 – Coastal sites (2h30 drive)
Stop 1 – Cabo Girao
Head to Cabo Girao at opening time to avoid the largest crowds.
Get dizzy because, here, the cliffs reach 589m (1932ft). They are the tallest in Europe.
The locals have built a transparent platform to appreciate the height.
It is quite impressive to see the height, but apart from that, I thought the views were very limited.
Learn more in my article about Cabo Girao.
Stop 2 – Camara de Lobos
Stroll around the old village and the port: Camara de Lobos. The most famous in Madeira.
It is considered the most charming and I agree. Promenades that offer different views surround the tiny fishing port with colorful boats. It is worth spending half a day here, soaking in the atmosphere and maybe enjoying a delicious lunch with fresh fish.
See my article.
Stop 3 – Ponta do Sol
Ponta do Sol is famous for being the sunniest place in Madeira.
But it is also very charming with the beach and the colorful buildings on the seafront.Plus, there are the remains of the Royal path that surrounded the whole island and the bridge that connected to the pier. It is very photogenic and offers great perspectives on the town and the cliffs.
Learn more
Stop 4 – Ribeira Janela
You next stop is Ribeira da Janela.
It is very easy to park at the bottom near the beach.
There is a staircase to a viewing platforms to enjoy the rocky pillars in the sea.
Or you can walk on the beach for a better look, but wear proper walking shoes, the rocks are unstable.
Learn more.
Stop 5 – Porto Moniz
Bring your swimsuit. After this long hike, you deserve to go swim in the Porto Moniz Natural pools surrounded by lava. A wonderful and unusual experience.
There are 2 areas: the ones that have been made smoother for public use and the more natural ones, near the fort.
I recommend first enjoying them on foot: the long strips of lava, the shades of blue and green, the island in the background.
But then, make sure to get into the water (seawater). The place is ideal for those who love swimming and the views are mesmerizing. Such a relaxing place to swim.
However, don’t swim between 10am and 3pm, when groups are visiting on day trips. I recommend staying later and even spending the night to have a more peaceful experience.
See my complete guide.
Stop 6 – Seixal
Your next stop is Seixal.
It has a black sand beach which is clearly the most beautiful beach on the island.
Plus it has natural pools with a lava arch.It is what I imagine when thinking of an old volcanic island: smooth black sand with steep cliffs with lush vegetation.
There is even a small waterfall on the beach!
Learn more
And return to your hotel…
Day 2 – Mountain and coastal sites (3h15 drive)
Stop 1 – Pico do Ariero
Get up early and go watch the sunrise at Pico do Areiro.
Plan to arrive at least 30minutes before to see the colors changes and hopefully see the sun rise over the clouds. If you feel like it, do some of the hike towards Pico Ruivo. You can walk 1h one way for a 2h return a hike and see a lot. Learn more.
Stop 2 – Verada dos Balcoes
In this itinerary, you don’t have time to hike along one of the stunning levadas (traditional irrigation system).
This is a good compromise: beautiful views, short walk and a levada.
This is an easy walk that gives you a feel for what Madeira is all about:
- You get to a viewpoint with the mountain peaks
- From the viewpoint, you can also see the lush valley all the way to the sea
- There are many birds
- The area is covered with ancient trees and lush vegetation
- There is a section of the walk along a levada, which is great for those who can’t do one of the big levada walks.
- 3Km (2mi) return – Plan 1h for plenty of pictures
Stop 3 – Santana Traditional Houses
One of the largest attractions in Madeira, the Park is an ethnographic village where you can learn more about the culture, traditions and crafts.
The most appreciated feature is the set up inside old traditional houses with triangular thatched rooftops.
You can also explore the whole park with gardens and a lake.
Stop 4 – Rocha do Navio Cable Car
Finish the day with my favorite cable car.
First enjoy the view from the top. The green mountains dropping into the deep blue sea are spectacular!
And, as you ride down to sea level, you will be able to several waterfalls.
In my opinion, it has be best scenery. You can even see a traditional Santana house in the gardens.
The name ‘Rocha do Navio’ refers to the sinking of a Dutch ship in the nineteenth century.
Learn more on my Rocha do Navio article.
Stop 4 – Ponta do Sao Louranço
Ponta de Sao Louranço is the best place on the island to admire the volcanic origin of Madeira.
You walk along the famous “dragon tail” of Madeira surrounded by bare landscapes and colorful rocks.
You may not have the time to do the hike, if you decided to hike in the morning. In that case just enjoy the views at the side viewpoint of Ponta do Rosto.
You can do as much as walking you want on the trail and turn around. It is impressive and colorful!
You can just admire the views near the carpark or walk as long as you want along the hike.
The entire hike is 6.4km/4mi which means 3 to 4h to the Sardinha Café and return.
Stop 5 – Punta Garajau (Cristo Rei)
Head south to Ponta do Garajau also known as Teleferico do Cristo Rei.
Ponta do Garajau is a clear promontory sticking out from the cliffs.
It makes the eastern end of the bay of Funchal.
It is a great combination of attractions that will please many visitors:
- First, there is the 14m statue Cristo Rei facing the ocean (not a copy of the Brazil one, this was inaugurated before!)
- Second, a staircase leads to the end of the promontory for beautiful views
- Third, you can take a cable car down to a beach
Day 3 – City sites: around Funchal (no driving required)
Stop 1 – Dolphins and whales
Go on a boat tour to spot dolphins and whales.
A great number of whales pass through Madeira each year. Research says that 28 different species of the 78 known can be seen on this island, from various dolphin species to great blue whales.
Tours are running year round. The highest quantity of species is from April to September.
Learn more
See available tours:
- Catamaran tour including swimming under Cabo Girao – See options & availability
- Speed boat tour – See details & availability
- Swim with dolphin tour – See details & availability
Stop 2 – Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Take the Cable car to high above town. There you can visit one of the gardens.
Madeira is s also famous for its man-made natural beauty a.k.a. its gardens. There are several in Funchal, but if you have time only for one, I strongly recommend the Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
Lush vegetation surrounds the walking paths that lead to water feature, stones, sculptures, tiles, museums and various structures.
Stop 3 – Sled Ride
Get back downtown by enjoying a toboggan sled ride.
It is one of the most unique experiences in Madeira. Very unusual.
You are sitting in a basket and transported down the steep streets back to the center of Funchal.
And how are you breaking, may you ask… well, 2 men in traditional costumes will use their feet to balance, steer and brake the ride.
Stop 4 – Historical Funchal
Explore downtown Funchal.
I am not a city person, I prefer nature. But I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised by the old center of Funchal.
It has a lot of charms with lots of trees lining the streets.
You should take the time to just stroll around, appreciate the buildings (fort, cathedral, churches…) and enjoy the vibe.
I don’t drink coffee 
But I also like other drinks and sweets!
Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…
Itinerary 4 – 3 hiking days in Madeira
Madeira has some of the most fascinating hikes I have every done.
Between high mountain peaks, lush levada walks and bare landscape, you can have a wonderful time in 5 days. Here is my selection of the 5 best to complete on your trip but you can see my complete list with all my favorite hikes.
Best place to stay for this itinerary + getting around
The best hikes are mostly on the east side of the island.
So you can stay in Funchal with rentals in the old center and hotels with pools in the Lido area – see best rated accommodations in the area
or stay in Porto da Cruz, if you are looking for a quieter place – see best rated accommodations in Porto da Cruz
And for this itinerary, a car is essential. Compare rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com.
But if you don’t want to drive, I have also listed guided hike options.
Day 1 – Ponta de Sao Louranço (PR8)
Ponta de Sao Louranço is the best place on the island to admire the volcanic origin of Madeira.
You walk along the famous “dragon tail” of Madeira surrounded by bare landscapes and colorful rocks.
Along the hike there are many viewpoints with steep cliffs, sea stacks and magnificent views towards the sea or back toward the island.
The peninsula has been beautifully shaped by the elements. It is impressive and colorful!
- The best times to do this hike are for sunrise – less crowded, not as hot, good colors (if not cloudy), facing the sun – or late afternoon – less crowded, great colors
- If you are worried about doing this hike on your own, or if you want to learn more about the area, you can join a guided tour – Learn more and see availability
- 6.4km/4mi return to the Sardinha Café
3 to 4 hours return
Add 1.4km return if you climb to the last viewpoint towards the lighthouse (trail with sign closed)
Day 2 – Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo (PR1)
This is one of the most impressive hikes I have ever done. It connects Pico do Areeiro (1817m – 5961ft) to Pico Ruivo (1862m – 6108ft), the 3rd and 1st highest peaks on the island.
The peaks are sharp and the cliffs dropping straight down around you.
You can see mountains all around, as well as the sea on each side. Plus, along the way, there are caves into the volcanic tuff that were shelters for shepherds.
You will never get bored (unless you are in the clouds).
More pictures on my article about Pico do Arieiro
- come for sunrise for 3 reasons: to easily find a spot to park, to have more chance of having the summits about the clouds, and to see the sunrise!
- Option 1 – return the same as the departure point
14km (8.7mi) – 7 to 8h for total return walk - Option 2 – finish at Achada do Teixeira and call a cab to come pick you up and drive you back to the first carpark (important budget + take a cab company phone number with you)
7km + 2,8km = 9,8km (6mi) – 3,5h to 4h to get to Pico Ruivo + 1h to 1h30 to walk down to Achada do Teixeira on PR1.2 - If you are worried about doing this hike on your own, or if you want to learn more about the area, you can join a guided tour.
The group hike does version 2 and the transportation is there, waiting for you, to take you back to your hotel in Funchal.
Learn more and check availability
Or book a private transfer (option 2 of the walk as well).
Day 3 – Levada do Caldeirao Verde (PR9)
Another famous Levada walks in Madeira starts at the Parque Floresta das Queimadas. It is a long flat walk in lush vegetation. It leads to a tall waterfall known as Caldeirao Verde.
This walk is pretty special. First, there are the weeping walls with green vegetation. And it is also an adventure, because you have to make your way through 5 tunnels. Some of them are quite long and very dark. Kids love it! Adults have mixed feeling, especially when they bump their head…
This waterfall walk can also be completed with a loop to a canyon and other waterfalls known as Caldeirao do Inferno, which is quite impressive (although difficult to photograph).
- Once again, I think early morning is best. I arrived at sunrise and was first at the carpark.
There was absolutely enough light on the trail and I was alone to enjoy the beautiful scenery and the silence. What a blissful moment! (the return was more frustrating with all the people talking lol). - To Caldeirao Verde – 13km/8mi return – 5h30 return
To Caldeirao do Inferno – add 4,4km/2,7mi return – add 2h return (worth it!) - Here again, if you don’t have transportation or want the services of a guide, you can opt for a guided walking tour.
Check out the options
Plan your dream trip in Madeira thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 120+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 260+ original photos to help you choose
FAQs
How many days are enough in Madeira
In my opinion, the ideal stay in Madeira is between 1 and 2 weeks.
10 days is great!
But you can already see a lot with less time. Check out my itineraries:
- 4 days in Madeira
- 5 days in Madeira
- One week in Madeira (to be published)
- 10 days in Madeira (to be published)
What is the best month to visit Madeira for a long weekend
Madeira is a great destination all year round. You can enjoy your long weekend here every months.
However during winter, it can be cold for the activities in the mountains.
Learn more on my article about the best time to visit Madeira.
Want to see more of the best Madeira offers?
- 42 Madeira travel tips to plan an unforgettable trip – read article
- Where to stay in Madeira – best areas – read article
- 35 best things to do in Madeira – read article
- The best landscapes in Madeira in 40 pictures – read article
- The 7 cables cars in Madeira and their amazing views – read article
- 10 best hikes & levada walks in Madeira – reach article
- Tips to rent a car and drive around Madeira – read article
- 12 Madeira Hidden Gems – read article
- 4 Madeira Natural Pools (and 6 coastal alternatives) – read article
- 18 best beaches in Madeira – read article
- 7 best Madeira boat tours & trips – read article
Planning a trip to Madeira?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan:
Plan your dream trip in Madeira thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 120+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 260+ original photos to help you choose
And keep track of your own trip!
Want to see more of MADEIRA?
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4 days in Madeira – itineraries
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