Madeira | Practical information and tips for a carefree holiday

Madeira, also known as the island of flowers Portugal. Madeira is not a very large island, but due to the unspoiled nature and the enormous height differences, moving yourself is quite time-consuming. The height differences also provide micro-climates with very diverse weather conditions and diverse landscapes. Those who want to discover Madeira should therefore prepare themselves well. For example, do you want to know what the best travel time is for Madeira, how to score cheap airline tickets to Madeira and what about public transport? Then read ours here practical tips for Madeira.

About Madeira

Madeira is an archipelago belonging to Portugal and is located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1000 kilometers southwest of mainland Portugal. It is a popular destination because of its beautiful green nature, mild climate and vibrant culture.

• Currency: The official currency of Madeira is the Euro (EUR). So you can pay with euros in Madeira.
• Language: The official language of Madeira is Portuguese. Most of the local population speaks Portuguese. However, due to tourism, reasonable English is also spoken in the tourist areas.
• Flight time from Amsterdam: The flight time from Amsterdam to Madeira usually varies between 3,5 and 4 hours, depending on the specific flight and weather conditions.
• Capital city: The capital of Madeira is Funchal. Funchal is a beautiful city known for its colorful houses, historic buildings, beautiful parks and lively markets. It also has an attractive old town with narrow streets and cozy restaurants and cafes.

Madeira is known for its natural beauty, with lush mountains, beautiful landscapes and breathtaking views. It is a great destination for hiking, mountaineering and water sports enthusiasts. In addition, Madeira is known for its wine production, especially the sweet Madeira wine.

Practical tips and information

When is the best time to visit Madeira?

Madeira has a mild climate all year round. The warm sea around the island ensures moderate temperatures, both in summer and winter. In winter the average temperature in Funchal is 17 degrees. In the summer months the temperature hovers around 26 degrees with peaks up to about 32 degrees. A large part of the year the weather is pleasant and nice on Madeira. You do have to take into account (heavy) rain showers and fog throughout the year. The island is known for its humid climate.

Spring (March-May)

• Spring is a wonderful time to visit Madeira as the island comes alive with colorful flowers and lush vegetation.
• Temperatures are mild, usually ranging between 15-20°C, making it pleasant to explore and hike.
• Please note that March and April can be slightly wetter, so bring an umbrella or raincoat.

Summer (June-August)

• The summer months offer warm and sunny weather in Madeira, with temperatures around 25-30°C.
• This is the high season on the island, so expect more tourists and busier beaches.
• It is also a great time for water sports activities such as swimming, diving and sailing.

Fall (September-November)

• Fall is a favorite time of year for many visitors, as the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are starting to die down.
• Temperatures remain mild, usually ranging between 20-25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
• In September and October the sea is still warm enough for swimming.

Winter (December-February)

• Winter in Madeira is mild and pleasant, with temperatures around 15-20°C.
• This is a popular destination for people who want to escape the cold and enjoy a mild climate.
• Although there may be some rain, there are also many sunny days.

Important Note: Madeira is known for its microclimates, which means that the weather can vary in different parts of the island. In general, the southern part is slightly warmer and drier than the northern part. It is always a good idea to have a vest and/or raincoat with you at all times on Madeira, even if only sun is predicted.

How long do you need for Madeira?

The length of your stay in Madeira depends on your interests, the activities you want to undertake and the sights you want to visit. In general, it is recommended to allow at least 5 to 7 days to explore Madeira. If you have the time, you can definitely stay longer because there is plenty to discover.

Here are some considerations to help you determine the length of your stay:

• Exploration of Funchal: The capital Funchal has a lot to offer, such as historical sights, lively markets, museums and gardens. Exploring the city and tasting the local cuisine can take several days.
• Hikes and Levada walks: Madeira is known for its beautiful levada walks, which take you along irrigation canals through lush landscapes and breathtaking views. There are different routes and levels of difficulty, so you can spend several days exploring different hiking trails.
• Landmarks and natural attractions: Madeira has several natural attractions, such as the Pico do Arieiro, Cabo Girão (one of the highest cliffs in the world) and the volcanic caves of São Vicente. Visiting these sights and exploring the natural beauty can take several days.
• Coastal towns and villages: There are picturesque coastal towns and charming villages scattered around the island, such as Câmara de Lobos, Santana and Porto Moniz. It is worth spending time exploring these places and soaking up the local culture.
• Leisure activities: Madeira also offers activities such as sailing, whale watching, canyoning and paragliding. If you are interested in these activities, you should book extra time.

In short, if you have at least 5 to 7 days, you can have a good introduction to Madeira and experience some of its highlights. If you have more time, for example 10 days to 2 weeks, you can dive deeper into the island, take more walks, visit additional sights and relax in the beautiful surroundings. Please remember that this is only a general guideline and the length of your stay will depend on your personal preferences and travel style.

Airline tickets and prices

De capital from Madeira is Funchal and there is also the only airport on the island. Funchal airport is easily accessible with direct flights from Amsterdam. Street Eindhoven is also available with Ryanair in the summer period, but with a transfer. Düsseldorf (Germany) and Brussels (Belgium) are possible good options to divert to. You can also find good offers there.

• Compare Madeira flights from: Amsterdam
• Compare Madeira flights from: Eindhoven
• Compare Madeira flights from: Dusseldorf
• Compare Madeira flights from: Brussels

Remark: The flight time from these cities to Madeira usually varies between 3,5 and 4 hours, depending on the specific flight and weather conditions.

Cheapest months

Do you want to know in which months you cheap flights to Madeira can score? View the overview below. The overview below comes from Skyscanner (list of 2023). In this overview you can see that you can fly very cheaply to Madeira in the month of October. August is generally the most expensive month to travel to Madeira. The best period to book is usually 9 to 4 months before the flight departure.

Note: These are starting prices. Usually the prices will be slightly more expensive. In October, the usual flight ticket prices are about 150 to 190 euros (return), in July and August you should think about 300 to 400 euros (return) from Amsterdam.

If you look at the prices of hotels on Madeira, you will see the same trends as with airline tickets. The months in which you score cheap airline tickets, the hotels are usually also cheaper. This is purely a matter of supply and demand.

What are nice addresses to stay at?

De cheaper accommodations are usually the big chains and hotels with a huge availability of rooms. Most of these are located about 10 to 15 minutes by bus outside the center of Funchal. If you want to stay in the center of Funchal, you are often dependent on small-scale boutique hotels that are generally a bit more expensive.

To help you on your way to a great place to stay in Madeira, we have collected some well-reviewed suggestions for you below for different budgets.

Low budget: Below you will find a mix of hostels and hotels with prices from 40 euros to a maximum of 100 euros per night.

• 29 Madeira Hostel (rated with an 8.5) – click here for prices and availability.
• Muthu Raga Madeira Hotel – (rated with a 7.4) – click here for prices and availability.
• Alexia Room – (rated with a 9.6) – click here for prices and availability.
• CBA Suites Madeira – (rated with a 8.6) – click here for prices and availability.

Average budget: Below you will find a selection of very well-rated hotels (minimum 8.5) with prices from 100 to 250 euros per night. We ourselves stayed in the middle of the old center of Funchal Se Boutique Hotel. This small-scale hotel is best known for its fantastic roof terrace. Rooms can be booked here from around 200 euros per night including a fantastic breakfast. Offers in these hotels regularly go towards 150 euros per night.

• Se Boutique Hotel (rated with an 9.0) – click here for prices and availability.
• Barcelo Funchal Oldtown (rated with an 9.2) – click here for prices and availability.
• The Views Baia – Adult Only (rated with an 8.8) – click here for prices and availability.
• Turim Santa Maria (rated with an 8.8) – click here for prices and availability.
• Hotel Caju (rated with an 9.3) – click here for prices and availability.
• Atlantida Tourist Apartments (rated with an 8.7) – click here for prices and availability.

Higher budget: With average prices from 250 euros or more you end up in an exclusive segment, often outside the center in nature.

• Terrabona Nature & Vineyards (rated with an 10) – click here for prices and availability.
• Barcelo Funchal Oldtown (rated with an 9.2) – click here for prices and availability.
• The Views Baia – Adult Only (rated with an 8.8) – click here for prices and availability.

Tip:: we visited Terrabona Nature & Vineyards for a wine tour with lunch (see photos). It is a small-scale hotel in a great location in the middle of nature. You sit here between the vineyards in the middle of green nature with a roaring river below you in the valley. A great place where we would like to return.

Which tours can be booked?

Madeira is a hugely diverse island surrounded by clear seas and high mountain peaks. The different activities therefore vary enormously from chilling on the water on a catamaran to dolphin and whale watching, sturdy full-day hikes to the highest peaks of the island to full-day jeep tours along all the most beautiful viewpoints.

The most popular hike in Madeira is the hike to Arieiro Peak. The full hike (there and back) takes about 8 hours. You can also choose to do half and be picked up on the other side. Furthermore, the Jeep tours and Dolphin Watching tours with a catamaran are very popular. Below is an overview of the 9 most popular activities in Madeira.

What about public transport?

• The bus: The bus network in Madeira is well developed and offers a convenient way to get around the island. The buses are comfortable and reliable. The main bus station is in Funchal, and from there you can take buses to various destinations on the island. Public transport in Madeira is operated by the company Horários do Funchal, and they have a website where you can find timetables and routes.
• Aerobus: If you plan to travel from Madeira Airport to Funchal, you can take the Aerobus. This special bus service connects the airport with various points in Funchal, including the city center and the hotel zones. The Aerobus is convenient and has frequent services. Click on this link to go to the official website to go.
• Taxis: Taxis are available throughout the island and can be a convenient option if you want flexibility and convenience. You can find taxis at taxi ranks or order them by phone. Please note that taxis in Madeira are metered and rates apply for different zones and distances. Uber en Bolt are also available on Madeira Our experience is that these are at least as expensive as regular taxis on the island.
• Funchal Monte Cable Car: This cable car connects the city of Funchal with the picturesque village of Monte, known for its beautiful gardens and the historic Monte Palace. During the ride you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city, the sea and the lush landscape of Madeira. Tickets you can here buy on the official website.
• Funchal Monte Toboggan Run: Not really public transport, but it will get you from A to B quickly. The Monte Toboggan Run is a unique and iconic attraction in Madeira. It is a traditional method of transportation where you sit in a wicker sleigh pulled by local riders, known as “Carreiros”. The ride starts in Monte and ends in the Livramento district of Funchal. It is an exciting experience that gives you the chance to explore the steep and winding streets of Madeira.

• Achadas da Cruz Cable Car: Located on the north coast of Madeira, this cable car offers panoramic views of the cliffs and the ocean. It is a spectacular drive that takes you to the beautiful village of Achadas da Cruz, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the impressive natural landscapes. More info here.
• Lift Faja dos Padres (Location here) is one of the steepest cable cars in the world! A ride in this cable car costs only a few euros. To get an idea of ​​what a ride in this extreme cable car looks like, watch the videos below.

What is also nice about this cable car: You reach a unique restaurant (Restaurante Faja dos Padres - Location here).

Is a rental car useful in Madeira?

Although it is a popular way to explore Madeira, I honestly say 'no' to a rental car. Why? Madeira is hugely mountainous and while the roads are generally good, there are literally thousands of tiny and super steep streets to navigate. The slope test really gets a whole different dimension here, I can tell you from experience.

And while you may be a good driver and Google Maps will take you safely from A to B, you are probably missing out on Madeira's most beautiful streets and spots. With a rental car you really see less simply because you don't know these roads and remote off-road spots. For example, I would never have been able to find the special place below for the sunset.

Note: curious what I shoot with? Check out the display below!

If you look purely at the cost of a rental car (which you probably pay every day, even if you don't use it for a day or 2), including insurance, fuel, etc. You will pay more or less the same as if you bought a rental car. book a Jeep tour a few times in one week. So definitely take this into consideration.

In any case, our experience is that it is better to book a well-kept 4×4 jeep tour a few times for a day or part of a day. These cost about 45 per person for half a day and you will really be spoiled for choice with unique locations, off-road roads and cool experiences. On this page you can compare the different Jeep tour providers on Madeira.

I'd rather have one renting a car on Madeira? Then don't worry. Madeira has a good road network and exploring the island with a rental car gives you flexibility. There are several car rental companies available both at the airport and in Funchal. It is best to compare and book these providers as far in advance as possible. Those who book late pay more.

With Sunnycars you may pay a little more on average for a rental car, but this is a Dutch party with only all-inclusive insurance and prices that never suddenly deviate afterwards. They are also very easily accessible, should there be anything unexpected. Of rental cars you may find a cheaper deal, but keep in mind that insurance is not included, there is no Dutch-language support and the service is generally just a lot less.

What should you taste in Madeira?

From a culinary point of view, you can go in all directions on Madeira. From affordable restaurants with local delicacies to star chefs and restaurants with an incredible view, so beautiful that you can hardly believe it. But to help you on your way to the best places and the things you absolutely must taste in Madeira, we have already collected a brief overview for you below.

• Madeira wine: Let your taste buds be pampered by the unique flavors of Madeira wine. Visit one of the many wine cellars on the island and learn about the production process of this famous fortified wine.
• Limpets: 'limpets' are usually ordered as a starter to share. Limpets are simply local shellfish that are briskly doused in oil, garlic, and spices.
• Nini Design Center Restaurant: Do you like good dining with a beautiful view? Then we can absolutely have dinner Nini Design Center (Location here) with a view over Funchal. The food here was really fantastic.
• Tuna steak with a view: In many restaurants you can order fresh tuna steaks, but no restaurant came close Restaurante Quinta do Furao (Location here). Not necessarily because their tuna steak is the very best, but purely because the location and view from their terrace are extraordinary.
• Steak & Sun: This is one of the best rated restaurants in Madeira. Pure indulgence with good steaks and fish dishes. Highly recommended but beware: it is a small restaurant that often fills up quickly.
• Kampo by Chef Julio Pereira: The name already gives you an idea that there is something good to discover here. Kampo by Chef Julio Pereira (Location here) is a restaurant chain based on the vision and recipes of world famous chef Julio Pereira. You come here for unique meat dishes.

Tip:: We wrote an extensive article about all the places we mention above with great dishes that you can taste there. Knowing more? Then read: Madeira | 6x particularly delicious food in the best restaurants.

What things should I really see and do in Madeira?

Madeira is not a very large island, but due to the unspoilt nature and the enormous height differences, there is a lot to see. The height differences provide micro-climates, very diverse weather conditions and diverse landscapes. The idyllic towns regularly alternate with dense forests and steep mountain cliffs. Those who want to discover Madeira should therefore prepare themselves well. Do you want to know more about that? Then read our article: Madeira | 17x the most beautiful places + things to do.

Are you looking for only the real crowd pleasers? Below you will find a (very concise) Top 5 of the most popular sights in Madeira.

1. The Cliff of Cabo Girão (with Skywalk)

We kick off with something Madeira is known for: steep cliffs and great viewpoints! The cliff Cape Girão (Location here) is definitely worth a visit, despite being one of the most touristic hotspots on the island. Access to this glass viewing platform costs only two euros and the view can rightly be called phenomenal. Not suitable for people with a fear of heights!

2. Funchal Old Town

Funchal is the capital from Madeira. Admire the historic cathedral, take relaxing walks along the promenade or enjoy spectacular views from the cable car.

3. Pico do Arieiro

Let yourself be enchanted by the breathtaking view from Arieiro Peak, the third highest point in Madeira. As you follow the winding road to the top, your amazement grows as the landscapes unfold before you.

4. Fanal Forest

Fanal Forest (location here) is a fairytale, ancient laurel forest high in the mountains of Madeira. The unique forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it is one of the last laurel forests in the world. Strangely enough, it is almost always foggy here, even when it is clear and sunny on the coast.

5. Miradouro da Quinta do Furao

It is not for nothing that I end with this special place. As far as I am concerned, it is the most beautiful place in Madeira. It is a breathtaking place where I really came to realize that Madeira is one of the most rugged and very green islands I have ever been to. The photo below looks like a scene from the movie Avatar, but nothing could be further from the truth. This is simply Madeira!

Also read: Madeira | 17x the most beautiful places + things to do

Packing list for Madeira

As mentioned, Madeira is known for its mild climate. This includes very changeable weather conditions. Although the temperatures are pleasant almost all year round, it can suddenly blow hard or rain heavily. Even if the sun is shining at your hotel and you don't see a cloud in the sky: always take a jacket or raincoat with you especially when you go up in height. Our experience is that the weather here can change really quickly, even if it is not predicted in advance in the weather forecast.

1. Raincoat
2. Waterproof backpack
3. Good one hiking boots
4. Swimwear
5. Sunscreen
6. Mini first aid kit
7. lifestraw water bottle