Madeira is a small island, but it is packed with amazing attractions. No time to get bored!
Below is my travel guide with the 35 best things to do in Madeira:
- Most beautiful places – nature, beaches, viewpoints…
- Best places to visit : towns, museums…
- What to do : best hikes, natural pools…
- Things to do in Funchal
- Hidden gems
I wish you a wonderful trip!
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)
NATURE – 3 Most beautiful places in Madeira
Madeira is really the Pearl of the Atlantic. This old volcanic land is mesmerizing in terms of Nature.
You are really going to stop, breathe and reconnect with Earth.
It is beautiful all around the island, but let’s start with 3 of my favorite Natural areas (except for the hikes and viewpoints which we will see further down).
- Things to do –
Rocha do Navio is one of the most typical views in Madeira, and my absolute favorite.
It has it all: the impressive cliffs, the cable car, the green farms, the turquoise water, the waterfall…
Plus, on clear days, the views all the way to Ponta de Sao Lourenço, the volcanic tail of Madeira.
This is a great place to enjoy the view from above and take the cable car to walk and relax by the water.
Learn more in my article about Rocha do Navio - Location –
North Coast
Town of Santana
Funchal to Rocha do Navio = 45min drive
#2 – Feel small in the Valley of the nuns (Curral das Freiras)
- Things to do –
Curral das Freiras is one of the most impressive valleys in Madeira. It is nestled between tall mountains with steep cliff creating a cauldron type landscape.
You can see it from 2 different viewpoints above the valley, or go down to the village.
Despite being an isolated area, it has had a long history, first helping to protect agains the pirates.
Its name means Valley of the Nuns and it is famous for its chesnut.
Photos cannot do it justice. - Location –
Inland
Just North of Funchal
Funchal to Curral das Freiras = 30min drive (via tunnel)
#3 – Admire Nature’s art at the Fanal Forest
- Things to do –
On the Paul da Serra plateau, you can find the Unesco Natural Heritage site of the Laurissilva forest.
The island and much of Southern Europe used to be covered by this native forest. In Madeira is one of the largest patches left.
Here you discover can easily discover hilly meadows and crooked trees. It is quite enchanting. You can let your imagination run wild, and see magical shapes in those trees. What do you think of the tree in the picture above? - Location –
Inland
Close to the North-West coast, only 20min from Porto Moniz
Funchal to Fanal Forest = 1h drive
TOWNS – 3 places to visit in Madeira
Apart from Funchal, the island is dotted with charming little towns and their seaside old centers.
The selection of the top 3 was not easy – you might also consider Jardim do Mar, Paul do Mar, Ribeira Brava, Caniçal…
#4 – Love the colors at Camara de Lobos
- Things to do –
Camara de Lobos is one of the most picturesque towns on Madeira (and the most visited).
It has a longer bay, which is great for a harbor. Today it is home to many small and colorful fishing boats.
There is a long seafront promenade to enjoy the town from various angles, many restaurants, a beach and a relaxing atmosphere.
Also, note that this is where Winston Churchill used to stay and paint.
See more photos - Location –
South Coast
West of Funchal, accessible by hop-on hop-off bus (get tickets)
Funchal to Camara de Lobos = 15min drive
See the best rated accommodations in Camara de Lobos
#5 – Take in the sun at Ponta do Sol
- Things to do –
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 - Location –
Middle of South Coast
Funchal to Ponta do Sol = 30min drive
See the best rated accommodations in Ponta do Sol
#6 – Listen to the waves at Porto da Cruz
- Things to do –
Porto da Cruz is far less famous that the other towns. The South Coast is generally more visited than the North one.
But I fell in love with this place.
I think this is the village with the best scenery, with splendid views of the cliffs all the way to Ponta de Sao Lourenco, and under the shadow of the 590m high Penha d’Aguia.
It is very quiet with only a few accommodations and restaurants. You have constantly the sound of the waves crashing on the rocks.
And, there is a seaside pool filled with sea water that offers those amazing views. I loved it! - Location –
North-East Coast
Funchal to Porto da Cruz = 45min drive
See the accommodations in Porto da Cruz
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
SWIMMING – 3 experiences – what to do in Madeira
Madeira is not famous for its beaches, but that does not mean you cannot have amazing swimming experiences.
There are some unique water fun to have. Below are my 3 must-do.
If you want to learn more about the natural pools, check out my dedicated article.
#7 – Swim in the Porto Moniz Natural Pools
- Things to do –
Many people visit Porto Moniz for the volcanic natural pools. They are the most famous on the island.
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. - Location –
North-West Coast
Funchal to Porto Moniz = 1h drive
See the best rated accommodations in Porto Moniz
#8 – Swim under the lava arch at the Seixal
- Things to do –
Another options for natural pools are the Seixal ones.
The experience here is quite different. They are more difficult to access, but even more impressive.
The natural lava sculptures are fascinating, especially the giant arch under which you can swim! - Location –
North-West Coast
Funchal to Seixal = 45min drive
See the best rated accommodations in Seixal
#9 – Swim under Cabo Girao from boat or with dolphin
- Things to do –
One of the major activities you can enjoy in Madeira is a boat tour for whale and dolphin watching.
The best period is May to September.
There is a wide variety of tours, with different boats and services – Check out the tour options & book
With most of them, you can enjoy a swim just under the giant cliffs of Cabo Girao (589M tall!). This is a great experience! - There is even one where you can swim with dolphins (if they find a pod with specific species) – learn more and book
- Location –
Departure from Funchal
HIKES – 3 best hikes & levada walks – best things to do in Madeira
Madeira is also very famous for its hiking trails.
There are a variety of trails with mountain and coastal scenery.
Some of the most famous are the Levada Walks.
The Levadas of Madeira are water channels built into the sides of the mountains to carry water to farmlands.
I recommend you do at least 3 hikes (or their shorter alternatives):
- One in the mountains around Pico do Arieiro
- One at the volcanic cliffs of Ponta Sao Lourenço
- And one along a levada such as 25 Fontes or Caldeirao Verde.
Below are my top 3 and you can see more in my article about the best hikes in Madeira (with tips).
#10 – Hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
- Things to do –
This is a very impressive hike. 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 the clouds).
And you don’t have to do the whole hike, you can do as much as you can and turn around. Learn more in my article about Pico do Arieiro. - Location –
Inland, North of Funchal
Funchal to Pico do Arieiro = 40min drive
Complete return walk = 14km (8.7mi) / 7 to 8h
#11 – Hike along the cliffs at Ponta de Sao Lourenço
- Things to do –
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! - Location –
North-East Coast
Funchal to Ponta de Sao Lourenco = 40min drive
6.4km/4mi/3 to 4h return to the Sardinha Café
#12 – Complete the 25 Fontes Levada Walk
- Things to do –
This is the most famous Levada walk in Madeira.
You follow the path in lush vegetation and it leads to a small lagoon and many tiny waterfalls crying on a wall, hence the name of 25 springs.
Plus, on that same path, you can also enjoy a quick detour to the Risco waterfall, dropping 100m (330ft) on the side of the mountain.
I recommend you start the hike early in order to avoid the crowds, since the path is very narrow in places. - Location –
Inland from South-West Coast
Funchal to Rabaçal = 50min drive - Check out my complete guide for the hike
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!
BEACH – 3 best beaches in Madeira
As I wrote earlier, Madeira is not famous for its beaches. It does not have dreamy sandy tropical beaches.
But there are still a few worth mentioning.
Below, I have chosen my favorites for its natural beauty, for a day at the beach and for photography.
However, you can see my complete selection of 18 Madeira beaches to consider in this other article.
#13 – Visit Seixal black sand beach – for natural beauty
- Things to do –
In my opinion, this is clearly the most beautiful beach on the island.
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!
A beach that has it all: sand, scenery, nice waters… - Location –
North Coast, in the village of Seixal
Funchal to Seixal beach = 45min drive
#14 – Spend time at Machico beach – if you really want a typical beach day
- Things to do –
In the historical town of Machico, you can find the largest sandy beach.
The crescent-shaped beach is made up of imported sand from Morocco. With the palm leaves umbrella, you could almost say it looks like an exotic beach.
A rock wall creates a protected area for swimming.
If you are looking for a typical day at the beach, this is your best option. - Location –
East coast
Funchal to Machico Beach = 30min drive
#15 – Take many pictures at Praia de Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela
- Things to do –
This beach is not to lie down. The rocks are really big. It is even difficult to walk on the beach…
However, this is one of my favorite on the island.
This is where you can enjoy the waves crashing on a series of sea stacks.
Plus, you can take a staircase up to a tunnel cut in the volcanic cliffs to reach a viewpoint.
Learn more on my Ribeira da Janela article. - Location –
North-East coast, 5min from Porto Moniz
Funchal to Ribeira da Janela = 1h drive
FUNCHAL – 6 best things to do in Funchal
Funchal is the capital of the Madeira Archipelago. It is also the largest town.
For people looking for animation, group tours and lots of restaurants, this is the best place to stay. See best rated accommodations.
Plus, in town, there is already quite a lot to do: museums, parks, gardens, forts… without the need for a car.
Below are my selected best things to do in Funchal.
#16 – Explore the old town of Funchal
- Things to do –
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 - Location –
Center of Funchal.
#17 – Take the Funchal – Monte Cable car
- Things to do –
You cannot go to Madeira and not take a cable car. They are institutions.
I prefer the ones in nature, but I have to admit at the Monte cable car is the most practical one. It allows you to easily visit the Monte area, which is a lot higher above Funchal (with very steep roads to reach it). - Location –
From the seafront promenade in Funchal.
#18 – Visit Monte Palace Tropical Garden
- Things to do –
Madeira is famous for its nature-made natural beauty.
But it is 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. - Location –
Monte Area, above Funchal old center.
12,50 euros entrance
9.30am to 6pm
#19 – Go whale and dolphin watching
- Things to do –
A classic in Madeira is to take a whale and dolphin watching tour (you have many more chances to see dolphins).
There are many boats taking tourists out along the South Coast from Funchal.
Aside from wildlife, the tour allows you to enjoy scenic views of the island and the town of Funchal. - Location –
From the Funchal Marina
Check out the tour options (different sizes of catamaran / different services) & book
#20 – Get a rush with a toboggan sled ride
- Things to do –
The Funchal toboggan sled ride 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 theur feet to balance, steer and brake the ride. - Location –
From the Monte area
You can book tours that include other attractions. See options.
#21 – Admire the art in Rua Maria
- Things to do –
There is quite a lot of street art in Funchal.
But one of the best areas is to walk along the street Rua Maria near the old Market. It is a long street with restaurants, where walls and doors have been decorated with various styles. - Location –
East of old town, near the old Market Mercado dos Lavoradores.
And much more…
There is much more to do inside Funchal:
- More gardens: The Madeira botanical garden, Monte municipal garden…
- More museums: sacred art, photography, illusions, military…
- More historical buildings: Jesuits college, cathedral, fort, old market…
Where to stay in Madeira?
My favorites:
- For a choice of restaurants and if you don’t rent a car: see best-rated options in Funchal
- Luxury resorts: check out the Lido area in Funchal
- For a sandy beach: see best-rated options in Machico
- For a quiet village in beautiful scenery: see best-rated options in Porto da Cruz
- For practical location to explore: see best-rated options in Ribeira Brava
- To enjoy the natural pools: see best-rated options in Porto Moniz
VIEWPOINTS – 3 best, what to see in Madeira – sightseeing
Madeira is the queen of Miradouros.
Every place where it is possible to add a bench with a view, the locals have done it. And I love it.
You should really rent a car and drive around (see my tips) to discover all these amazing views.
Below are 3 of my favorites, but if you want more, check out my article with 21 of the most beautiful Madeira viewpoints.
#22 – Admire the volcanic cliffs from Ponta do Rosto
- Things to do –
Ponta de Sao Lourenço is one of the best famous hikes on the Madeira (see my list).
But if you cannot hike or just want even more volcanic cliff views, you can stop at Ponta do Rosto.
By the carpark you can enjoy views of one of the bay along the peninsula, with colorful rocks. - Location –
North of East Coast
Funchal to Ponta do Rosto = 30min drive
#23 – Enjoy the inland at Miradouro Terra Grande
- Things to do –
180° views towards the mountains and the Ribeira Brava valley.
The road ER228 is one of the most beautiful on the island and this stop is perfect (my photos do not do it justice) - Location –
Inland from Ribeira Brava
Funchal to Miradouro Terra Grande = 30min drive
#24 – Get dizzy at the Cabo Girao Skywalk
- Things to do –
The Cabo Girao Skywalk is the most famous viewpoint in Madeira.
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 - Location –
South Coast – West of Funchal
Funchal to Cabo Girao = 20min drive
HIDDEN GEMS – 3 ideas off the beaten path in Madeira
It is still possible to avoid the crowds in Madeira. However, the island is becoming increasingly popular, so those hidden gems are less and less secret.
Below is my selection of places to visit off the beaten path (and you can see more in this article).
#25 – Find the cave houses at Calhau da Lapa
- Things to do –
Since it is only accessible on foot with 700 stairs or by boat, it reduces the amount of people visiting it.
This is quite a unique place in Madeira.
The walk down will take you to a waterfall and then to the secret beach at the bottom of the volcanic cliffs.
The particularities are the fishermen’ cave-houses inside those colorful cliffs. - Location –
South Coast
Funchal to Calhau da Lapa trail = 20 min drive - Learn more
#26 – Be scared on the Achadas da Cruz cable car
- Things to do –
Madeira has 7 cable cars. The more famous are in Funchal and the South Coast.
But you should try them in other areas of the island.
In the area of Porto Moniz is the Achadas da Cruz cable car. It claims to be the steepest in Europe.
And it is an impressive experience to ride it down to the bottom of the cliffs!
451m of height over 600m – It is written that the beginning has a slope of 98%.
It is still pretty quiet but Porto Moniz is advertising for it, so it might become less quiet…
See more pictures - Location –
West Coast
Funchal to Achadas da Cruz = 1h15 drive
#27 – Get hungry on the Banana Route
- Things to do –
One of the main fruits cultivated on Madeira is the banana. You will see plantations everywhere.
In the village of Madalena do Mar, there is even a small walking route where you can enter those plantations and discover the local farming industry with the irrigation system.
This is quite a fun experience. - Location –
West of South Coast
Funchal to Madalena do Mar = 30min drive
MUSEUMS – 3 Madeira attractions to learn more about the island
#28 – Be a fan at the CR7 Museum
- Things to do –
Fans of soccer may visit Madeira because it is where the famous player Cristiano Ronaldo was born.
The most visited museums in Madeira is the CR7. It is dedicated to the many trophies he has won throughout his career. And you can learn more about his life from his childhood to his stardom.
Just outside the museum is a statue of him. - Location –
West of the old center of Funchal, near the harbor.
You can also stay at the Pestana CR7 hotel if you are really really a fan – see pictures and availability
#29 – Learn history at Porto da Cruz Sugar Cane factory
- Things to do –
Madeira has a long history of sugar cane transformation.
There are several old factories that have been turned into small museums. Some of them are still producing a little during harvest season.In Porto da Cruz is one of them. - Location –
North-East Coast
Funchal to Porto da Cruz = 45min drive
#30 – Be fascinated by the Santana Traditional Houses
- Things to do –
The traditional Santana houses are kind of the mascot of the island. You can also see some example in the Monte Palace Tropical garden and the botanical garden. But in Santana, where they were built, you can see many of them in a park and learn more about the history of Madeira. - Location –
North coast
Funchal to Santana = 45min drive
And more…
Those are my top 3, however, the island has many other museums to offer such as:
- The Sao Vicente caves – to learn more about the volcanic history of Madeira and the geology
- The museum of Sacred Arts in Funchal
- The Madeira film experience about the history and life on the island
- Madeira Story also about the history and life on the island
- …
CULTURAL – 4 food, drinks and festival Experiences
#31 – Taste the Madeira Wine
The Madeira wines are some of the most popular in Portugal.
They are not as famous as Port wine internationally, but they have strong supporters.
It has a unique flavor because of the heating of the wine. And it is stored in a warm environment.
You can enjoy it:
- at restaurants
- on wine tasting tours – see options
- at the Blandy’s cave tour in Funchal
#32 – Drink the local Poncha
Poncha is the official drink of Madeira.
Every local has its own recipe. But basically, it is a mix of rum, honey, sugar, and lemon or orange (done with a mexelote).
Every restaurant will have their own version.
#33 – Participate at one of the many celebrations and festivals
Almost every town in Madeira has regular celebrations and festivals: religious dates, sporting events, produce seasonal celebrations…
Locals love festive gatherings, especially creating paper flower ornaments.
Some of the most famous area:
- The Carnival – weekend before Ash Wednesday, one of the largest in Europe
- Festa dos Santos Populares – june, all aorund the island – to celebrate various saints
- Madeira Day, public holiday on July 1st
- …
#34 – Visit farms at Faja dos Padres
And if you want to learn more about the agriculture and plantation in the fajas at the bottom of the cliff, you can book a garden tour at Faja dos Padres.
FUN SPORT activities
Option 1 – Go canyoning
Enter deep in the mountains, waterfalls and lush nature.
Have fun and push your limit, to connect better with your surroundings!
See availability and book
Option 2 – Go Scuba diving
Even beginners, can enjoy a moment of pure bliss underwater. Scuba-diving allows you to explore an entire new world.
See availability
Option 3 – Go Mountain Biking
Enjoy a ride in the subtropical laurel forest. Have to best of both worlds: a sport adventure and a guided tour to learn more about the flora and fauna.
See availability
Option 4 – Go Coasteering
The seas, the cliffs and your adrenaline… Coasteering is one of the new sport that takes on a journey along a coast. Strong swimmer only.
See availability
Option 5 – Learn to surf
Always wanted to know the feeling of gliding on a wave? Now is your time to try!
See availability
Madeira ARCHIPELAGO – leave the island for the day
#35 – Spend one day or more on Porto Santo
If you have enough time in Madeira, I do recommend spending at least a day in Porto Santo (it is quite small). It is quite different because of the lack of rainwater.
Plus, it is home to beautiful geological wonders.
2 options:
- You can do a day trip with the ferry to Porto Santo in the morning and the return in the evening (2h30 in each direction) – companies offer bus tours to the main attractions during the day – check out a complete day trip option from Funchal
- You can plan 3 days to go relax, explore and enjoy the sandy beach
Porto Santo’s highlights include:
- a 9km (5.6mi) long sandy beach
- Giant organ pipes formations
- a mini desert with sand dunes
- Great viewpoints
- …
Note that I also listed the best things to do in my eBook about Madeira.
#36 – Sail to the Desertas Islands
From Madeira island you can see 3 smaller ones in the distance, to the East. They are called the Desertas islands.
It is a nature reserve famous for its rare seals and giant tarantulas.
There are excursions heading there, but let me share with you the reality.
They mostly market the fact that it is a nature reserve. But on this day trip, you will spend 6h sailing on the catamaran (3h in each direction) with wind making you cold and waves crashing on you once in a while.
Once there, you won’t see any seals because they are living in another part of the island where boats are not allowed and all you will do is go for a 10min walk to look at boards and learn a bit more about the islands.
The volcanic rocks are beautiful, but I don’t think it is worth the 6h on a boat, unless you love that part too.
Your decision. See details & book tour.
SUMMARY – Best things to do in Madeira, Portugal
My selection of the must-see and do:
Best free things to do in Madeira
- Swim in the free Porto Moniz Pools
- Hike – Madeira has some incredible landscapes to discover on hikes (cliffs or mountains)
- Let your imagination run wild with the ancient trees of the Fanal Forest
Best unusual things to do in Madeira
- Complete a Levada walk – hike along the ancient irrigation system
- Take a basket ride down in Funchal
- Take one of the steep cable cars down to a faja (small agricultural land at the bottom of the cliffs)
Things to do in Madeira without a car
- Take a whale and dolphin watching boat tour
- Explore the old town of Funchal
- Take the hop on hop off bus to Camara dos Lobos
Most touristic attractions in Madeira
- Cabo Girao Skywalk – the glass platform above cliffs
- CR7 museum and the statue of Cristiano Ronaldo
- Monte Cable Car & Tropical Garden
Romantic things to do in Madeira
- Admire Rocha do Navio, the most romantic places, in my opinion – but maybe because this is where I saw a proposal bing made (and accepted…)
- Watch sunrise above the clouds (at Pico do Arieiro for example)
- Watch sunset from a Catamaran – see details & book
Things to do in Madeira when it rains
- Head to another part of Madeira island – because of the mountains, it rarely rains everywhere
- Visit a museum, such as CR7
- Do a Levada Walk. The lush vegetation is even more beautiful as you hike under the rain. Just take your time, as the paths can be slippery.
PLANNING your trip to Madeira
- Is Madeira worth visiting?
Absolutely. This is a stunning old volcanic land with breathtaking landscapes, as you have seen in this article. - How many days do you need in Madeira?
To enjoy all these amazing things to do in Madeira, I recommend 10 days to 2 weeks. - What is the best time to visit Madeira?
Madeira is a year-round destination. The best time depends on your expectations – for waterfalls, Winter is better – for hiking, June is great, to avoid the crowds, avoid the Summer months… see more in my article about the best time to visit Madeira - Do I need a car in Madeira?
If you really want to enjoy the best Madeira has to offer, I think renting a car is essential. You will be able to see amazing viewpoints and drive on the most beautiful roads. Learn more about driving and renting a car, in my specific article. - Where to stay to visit Madeira?
Madeira is not a big island, you can visit all on day trips. But If you are stying longer than 6 days, I recommend spending half with accommodation on the East side and half with accommodation on the West side of the island, to reduce driving times. Learn more in my article about Where to stay in Madeira.
Find the answer to all your questions to plan your trip in my article of 42 Madeira Travel tips
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!
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