Madeira: The Best 15 Things to Do on the Island of Eternal Spring

Madeira, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Atlantic," is a Portuguese archipelago that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventurous activities. Whether you're a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or enjoy immersing themselves in local traditions, Madeira has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of this stunning island's best things to do.

 

1 - Hike the Levada Trails

One of Madeira's most unique features is its network of levadas—irrigation channels that crisscross the island. These ancient watercourses are accompanied by walking paths that offer some of the best hiking experiences in the world. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual walker, there’s a levada for you.

• Levada do Caldeirão Verde: This trail takes you through lush forests, past waterfalls, and offers breathtaking views of the island’s rugged terrain.
• Levada das 25 Fontes: A popular choice, this trail leads to the stunning "25 Springs," where water cascades down a rocky wall into a serene pool.

 

2 - Explore Funchal

The capital city of Madeira, Funchal, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modernity. Spend a day exploring its charming streets, visiting historical sites, and enjoying local cuisine.

• Visit Mercado dos Lavradores: This lively market is a sensory delight with its colorful array of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and local crafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste exotic fruits unique to the island.
• Monte Palace Tropical Garden: Take a cable car from the city center to Monte, where you can explore these beautiful gardens that house exotic plants, koi ponds, and impressive art collections.
• Funchal Cathedral: An architectural gem, this Gothic cathedral dates back to the 16th century and features an impressive wooden ceiling crafted from local wood.

 

3 - Go Whale and Dolphin Watching

Madeira’s surrounding waters are home to a diverse array of marine life, making it one of the best places in Europe to go whale and dolphin watching. Several tour operators offer boat trips that give you the chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

• Summer Months: The best time for whale watching is between April and October, with species such as sperm whales and pilot whales frequently spotted.
• All Year Round: Dolphins, including bottlenose and spotted dolphins, can be seen throughout the year, often swimming close to the boats and putting on a playful show.

 

4 - Experience the Thrill of Canyoning

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, canyoning in Madeira is a must-do activity. The island’s rugged landscape, with its steep cliffs, waterfalls, and deep gorges, provides the perfect setting for this adventure sport.

• Ribeira das Cales: Ideal for beginners, this canyon offers a mix of rappels, slides, and jumps.
• Ribeiro Frio: For more experienced canyoners, this route offers a more challenging experience with higher rappels and more technical passages.

 

5 - Visit the Laurissilva Forest

The Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a relic of the ancient laurel forests that once covered much of Southern Europe. This magical forest is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, some of which are found nowhere else in the world.

• Vereda dos Balcões: A short, easy hike that takes you to a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the lush forest and the surrounding mountains.
• Rabaçal: Explore this area where several levada trails converge, leading to waterfalls, streams, and dense, verdant landscapes.

 

6 - Relax on Madeira’s Beaches

While Madeira is not known for its sandy beaches, it does have some beautiful spots where you can relax by the sea. The island’s volcanic origins have endowed it with dramatic coastlines and natural swimming pools.

• Praia Formosa: The largest public beach on the island, Praia Formosa is a mix of pebbles and black sand. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy the sun and sea.
• Porto Moniz Natural Pools: These stunning lava pools are naturally filled with crystal-clear seawater. The pools are a unique and safe place to swim, surrounded by the wild Atlantic Ocean.

 

7 - Savor Madeiran Cuisine

No trip to Madeira is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The island’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich history and abundant natural resources.

• Espetada: A traditional dish of marinated beef skewers grilled over an open fire. The meat is often seasoned with garlic, salt, and bay leaves.
• Bolo do Caco: A type of bread made from sweet potato usually served warm with garlic butter. It’s a must-try and is often served as a side dish.
• Poncha: Madeira’s signature drink, poncha is a potent mix of aguardente (sugarcane rum), honey, sugar, and lemon juice. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploration.

 

8 - Visit the Traditional Villages

Madeira’s charm is not just confined to its capital. The island is dotted with picturesque villages that offer a glimpse into the traditional Madeiran way of life.

• Santana: Famous for its A-frame houses with thatched roofs, Santana is a picturesque village surrounded by lush greenery and mountainous terrain.
• Curral das Freiras: Nestled in a deep valley, this secluded village is surrounded by towering peaks. It’s a great place to taste local chestnut-based dishes and enjoy the stunning views.

 

9 - Take a Scenic Drive

Madeira’s winding roads offer some of the most scenic drives in Europe. Rent a car and explore the island at your own pace, stopping at viewpoints, coastal towns, and hidden gems along the way.

• Estrada Regional 101: This route takes you along the northern coast of the island, offering dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged cliffs that Madeira is famous for.
• Pico do Areeiro: Drive up to the third-highest peak on the island. The road to Pico do Areeiro offers breathtaking views, and once at the top, you can hike to Pico Ruivo, the highest peak in Madeira.

 

10 - Attend a Local Festival

Madeira’s cultural calendar is packed with festivals that celebrate everything from flowers to wine. These events are a great way to experience the local culture and join in the festivities.

• Madeira Flower Festival: Held in spring, this festival is a vibrant celebration of the island’s flora, featuring parades, flower displays, and traditional music.
• Madeira Wine Festival: Taking place in late August to early September, this festival celebrates Madeira’s world-famous wine with tastings, music, and traditional grape stomping.

 

11 - Visit The Fishing Village of Câmara dos Lobos

Câmara de Lobos is a picturesque fishing village on the southwest coast of Madeira, just a short distance from the capital, Funchal. Renowned for its vibrant harbor filled with colorful fishing boats, this charming village captures the essence of traditional Madeiran coastal life. The narrow, cobblestone streets wind through whitewashed houses and local taverns, offering visitors a glimpse into the island's rich maritime heritage.

This quaint village was once a favorite retreat of Winston Churchill, who found inspiration in its scenic beauty. Today, Câmara de Lobos remains a must-visit destination, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, including the famed grilled scabbard while taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

 

12 - Take a cable car tour

The cable car in Madeira offers a breathtaking journey from Funchal to the hilltop village of Monte, providing stunning panoramic views of the island's lush landscapes and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. As you ascend, the cityscape of Funchal gradually gives way to verdant mountainsides, terraced vineyards, and the serene beauty of Madeira's natural scenery. The ride is both peaceful and exhilarating, offering a unique perspective of the island that you can't experience from the ground.

At the top, the village of Monte awaits with its charming gardens, historic sites, and the famous Monte Palace Tropical Garden. The cable car is not only a convenient mode of transport but also an unforgettable experience, making it a must-do activity for anyone visiting Madeira. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to soak in the island's beauty, the cable car offers a perfect blend of both.

 

13 - Go On a Madeira Toboggan Ride

The toboggan ride in Madeira is a thrilling and unique experience that has become one of the island's most famous attractions. Originating in the 19th century as a means of transportation, this traditional wicker sled ride takes you on a speedy descent from the hilltop village of Monte down to Funchal. Guided by two "carreiros" dressed in white and wearing straw hats, the ride covers about two kilometers (1.2 miles) of winding, narrow streets, offering a blend of excitement and tradition.

As you glide down the steep, polished roads, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean in the distance. The toboggan ride is a must-try for visitors seeking an authentic Madeiran experience, combining the island's rich history with a dash of adventure. It's a fun and memorable way to explore the island's unique culture and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.

 

14 - Tour the Blandy’s Wine Lodge

Madeira wine is world-renowned, and a visit to Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal is a must for wine enthusiasts. This historic wine producer offers guided tours that take you through the history and production process of Madeira wine.

• Wine Tasting: The tour includes a tasting session where you can sample different varieties of Madeira wine, from dry to sweet, and learn about the unique aging process.

• Explore the Cellars: Wander through the ancient wine cellars where barrels of wine are aged in traditional methods, providing insight into the heritage of Madeira wine-making.

 

15 - Discover the Underwater World with Scuba Diving

Madeira is an emerging destination for scuba diving, thanks to its clear waters and abundant marine life. The underwater topography includes volcanic caves, reefs, and even shipwrecks, making it a fascinating place to explore.

• Garajau Nature Reserve: This protected area is one of the best spots for diving, home to species like groupers, moray eels, and barracudas.
• Underwater Archaeological Park: For those interested in history, this site near Funchal offers the chance to explore sunken ships and artifacts from past centuries.

 

Madeira's blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty offers an endless array of activities that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you're diving beneath the waves, soaring above the mountains, or simply soaking in the island's rich history and vibrant culture, Madeira is sure to leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags, and get ready to discover the magic of Madeira!