Madeira
Atlantic Scenery, Year-Round Sunshine & Natural Beauty
Majestic fjords, northern lights, and timeless Nordic beauty.
Discover the island of eternal spring
Portugal’s island of gardens, cliffs and outdoor adventure
Madeira is a dramatic Atlantic island known for its volcanic landscapes, lush greenery and mild climate throughout the year. Rising sharply from the ocean, the island offers a striking mix of steep cliffs, forested mountains, botanical gardens and coastal towns, all set against deep blue Atlantic waters. It is often referred to as the “Island of Eternal Spring” thanks to its consistently pleasant temperatures. Surprisingly, it's not a beach destination though there's plenty of sunshine and warm waters. There's hardly any sandy beaches and instead it's very hilly, lush and green.
Appealing to walkers, nature lovers, couples and relaxed explorers alike, Madeira combines scenic beauty with a calm, welcoming atmosphere. About an hour from Funchal inland at an altitude of about 900 meters above sea level is the small village of Ribeiro Frio - which is a starting point for several great hikes. Some of them go through the dense forest along one of the many 'levadas' and some go all the way up to the peak of the island: pico Ruivo.
Well-developed infrastructure makes travel easy, while the island’s slower pace and strong local traditions give it a distinct identity that sets it apart from mainland Portugal.
Visa Requirements
Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal, which is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area.
EU and EEA citizens can travel to Madeira visa-free.
Entry requires a valid passport or national ID card.
There are no border controls when travelling from other Schengen countries.
Language Spoken
The official language is Portuguese. English is widely spoken, particularly in hotels, restaurants, tour operators and tourist areas. Visitors will find communication easy across most of the island.
Accepted Currencies
Currency: Euro (€)
Payment methods: Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops.
Cash
is useful for smaller cafés, local bars and rural areas, so carrying some euros is recommended.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Madeira
Madeira enjoys one of the most stable climates in Europe.
- Year-round temperatures: Typically between 18–26°C, with mild winters and warm summers.
- Spring (March–May): Ideal weather and the famous Madeira Flower Festival, with colourful displays across the island.
- Summer (June–September): Warm and dry, perfect for swimming, boat trips and coastal walks.
- Autumn & Winter (October–February): Mild, quieter and still suitable for outdoor activities, especially hiking.
Best time to visit:
- April to October for warm weather and sea conditions
- Year-round for walking holidays and relaxed escapes
Destinations to Discover in Madeira
Funchal – The Island Capital
Funchal is Madeira’s cultural and commercial centre, offering a blend of historic sites, gardens and modern amenities. Since covid a large crowd of digital nomads and remote workers have set up camp in the city as well as in Ponta do Sol about an hour west of Funchal. In other words, English is widely spoken (Portuguese people in general speak several languages) and there's an international crowd.
Things to do: Explore the old town, visit the Mercado dos Lavradores, ride the cable car to Monte, tour botanical gardens and enjoy seafront dining.
Cabo Girão – Dramatic Coastal Views
One of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, Cabo Girão offers breathtaking views over the Atlantic and the terraced coastline below.
Things to do: Walk across the glass skywalk, enjoy panoramic photography and visit nearby vineyards and villages.
Santana – Traditional Madeira
Santana is famous for its distinctive triangular houses with thatched roofs, reflecting the island’s rural heritage.
Things to do: Visit traditional houses, explore nearby levada walks and learn about local crafts and customs.
Porto Moniz – Natural Lava Pools
Located on the north-west coast, Porto Moniz is known for its volcanic swimming pools formed by lava rock.
Things to do: Swim in natural pools, explore coastal trails and enjoy oceanfront cafés with Atlantic views.
Unmissable Experiences in Madeira
Walk the Levada Trails
Madeira’s extensive network of levadas (irrigation channels) offers some of Europe’s most scenic walking routes, suitable for a range of fitness levels.
Whale & Dolphin Watching
The deep waters surrounding Madeira are home to a variety of marine life, making boat trips a popular year-round activity.
Ride the Monte Toboggan
A unique Madeiran tradition, these wicker sledges provide a thrilling descent from Monte down to Funchal.
Northern Portugal Know-How: Top Tips for First-Timers
Prepare for Steep Terrain
Madeira is mountainous, with steep roads and hills. Comfortable footwear is essential, even in towns.
Hire a Car for Flexibility
While public transport is reliable, a car allows easier access to remote viewpoints, levada walks and coastal villages.
Pack for Microclimates
Weather can vary significantly across the island. Light layers and waterproof clothing are recommended.
Respect the Natural Environment
Many of Madeira’s landscapes are protected. Visitors should stay on marked paths and respect conservation areas.
An island of scenery, serenity and year-round appeal
adeira offers a unique blend of dramatic landscapes, mild climate and relaxed Portuguese charm. From cliff-top viewpoints and lush walking trails to calm coastal towns and vibrant festivals, the island provides memorable experiences in every season. For travellers seeking natural beauty, outdoor activities and a peaceful Atlantic escape, Madeira stands out as one of Europe’s most rewarding island destinations.
