Madeira

"Discover Madeira, where vibrant colors of nature bloom year-round amidst coastal cliffs."

🏞️

Currency

Euro (EUR) €

Best Time

May - September

Population

250,000

Weather °C

20

Madeira offers a remarkable natural beauty, with steep cliffs, lush gardens, and a rich cultural heritage. It is a destination where nature lovers and wine connoisseurs can experience the island’s signature landscapes and flavors. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts can explore the island's diverse terrain, while those interested in the island’s wine culture can visit vineyards and wineries to taste the famous Madeira wine. The island is a perfect blend of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
State

Madeira

Year

1420

Airport

Madeira Airport

Cost of Living (10)

Medium

Minimal List TL;DR

CR7 Museum
CR7 Museum
A unique museum dedicated to the career of CR7
🥕
Local Market
Calheta Farmers Market
A lively market filled with local produce
🥾
Levada Walk
Levada do Caldeirão Verde
A stunning levada walk through beautiful nature
🚡
Cable Car
Funchal Cable Car
A thrilling ride above the city
🥕
Mercado dos Lavradores
Mercado dos Lavradores
A vibrant market showcasing Madeira's produce
🌅
Scenic Coastal Walk
Ribeira Brava Promenade
A picturesque walk along the coast
🎨
Wickerwork Workshops
Camacha Wicker Factory
Experience the art of wicker weaving
🏡
Traditional Houses
Santana's Traditional Houses
A unique display of traditional Madeiran architecture
🌸
Botanical Garden
Jardim Botânico da Madeira
A beautiful botanical garden showcasing Madeira's unique flora
📸
Village
Ponta do Sol
A quaint village known for its stunning sunsets
🌌
São Vicente Caves
São Vicente Caves
Explore the natural caves of São Vicente
🍷
Wine Cellar
Blandy's Wine Lodge
A must-visit for Madeira wine lovers
🍽️
Restaurant
Restaurante do Forte
Offers a blend of traditional and modern Madeira cuisine
🦐
Seafood Restaurant
Restaurante O Pescador
A favorite spot for local seafood
🍲
Traditional Restaurant
O Pescador
A local favorite for delicious seafood
🍷
Wine Bar
Vinhos Bar
A charming spot to sample local wines
🌊
Natural Swimming Pools
Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools
A unique swimming experience in natural pools

Places to See

Ribeiro Frio
4.8
Free
Open year-round
Scenic hiking trail through lush landscapes
Vibe:
Adventurous
Tip:
Nature Lovers
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A stunning levada walk through beautiful nature
🚡
Funchal Cable Car
Cable Car
Avenida do Mar
4.7
15
9 AM - 6 PM
Spectacular views of Funchal
Vibe:
Scenic
Tip:
Adventure Seekers
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A thrilling ride above the city
🥕
Mercado dos Lavradores
Mercado dos Lavradores
Rua 31 de Janeiro
4.7
Free
7 AM - 3 PM
Local market with fresh produce and goods
Vibe:
Bustling
Tip:
Local Culture
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A vibrant market showcasing Madeira's produce
🌅
Ribeira Brava Promenade
Scenic Coastal Walk
Ribeira Brava
4.6
Free
24/7
Beautiful coastal views
Vibe:
Tranquil
Tip:
Nature Enthusiasts
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A picturesque walk along the coast
🎨
Camacha Wicker Factory
Wickerwork Workshops
Camacha
4.6
Free
9 AM - 5 PM
Traditional Madeiran wickerwork
Vibe:
Crafty
Tip:
Artisans
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Experience the art of wicker weaving
🏡
Santana's Traditional Houses
Traditional Houses
Santana
4.6
Free
8 AM - 6 PM
Iconic thatched-roof houses
Vibe:
Cultural
Tip:
Culture Buffs
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A unique display of traditional Madeiran architecture
🌸
Jardim Botânico da Madeira
Botanical Garden
Caminho de Jardim Botânico
4.6
Free
9 AM - 6 PM
Stunning plant diversity and panoramic views
Vibe:
Serene
Tip:
Nature Lovers
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A beautiful botanical garden showcasing Madeira's unique flora
📸
Ponta do Sol
Village
Ponta do Sol
4.5
Free
24/7
Charming coastal village with unique architecture
Vibe:
Picturesque
Tip:
Photography Lovers
Get To:
Yes, bus access
A quaint village known for its stunning sunsets
🌌
São Vicente Caves
São Vicente Caves
Rua das Grutas
4.5
10
10 AM - 5 PM
Stunning underground formations
Vibe:
Mysterious
Tip:
Nature Lovers
Get To:
Yes, taxi access
Explore the natural caves of São Vicente
Must Visit:

Flower Festivals, Wine Festivals

Madeira hosts the world’s largest fireworks show on New Year's Eve, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe.

Places to Eat

🍷
Blandy's Wine Lodge
Wine Cellar
Rua de São Francisco
4.8
$$
10 AM - 6 PM
Historic wine cellar with tasting tours
Vibe:
Intimate
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Wine Enthusiasts
A must-visit for Madeira wine lovers
🍽️
Restaurante do Forte
Restaurant
Rua do Forte
4.7
$$$
12 PM - 10 PM
Scenic dining with views of the Atlantic
Vibe:
Cozy
Get To:
Yes, taxi access
Tip:
Local Cuisine
Offers a blend of traditional and modern Madeira cuisine
🦐
Restaurante O Pescador
Seafood Restaurant
Rua dos Pescadores
4.7
$$
12 PM - 10 PM
Known for fresh seafood and harbor views
Vibe:
Coastal
Get To:
Yes, taxi access
Tip:
Seafood Lovers
A favorite spot for local seafood
🍲
O Pescador
Traditional Restaurant
Rua do Pescador
4.6
$$$
12 PM - 10 PM
Fresh seafood with local flair
Vibe:
Cozy
Get To:
Yes, taxi access
Tip:
Local Cuisine
A local favorite for delicious seafood
Must Try:

Espetada (grilled beef skewers), Bolo do Caco (traditional bread), fresh seafood, and Madeira wine.

Places to Drink

🍷
Vinhos Bar
Wine Bar
Rua da Alegria
4.8
$$
4 PM - 12 AM
Known for Madeira wine and cozy ambiance
Vibe:
Relaxing
Get To:
Yes, taxi access
Tip:
Wine Enthusiasts
A charming spot to sample local wines
🌊
Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools
Natural Swimming Pools
Porto Moniz
4.7
Free
9 AM - 7 PM
Natural volcanic pools with ocean views
Vibe:
Relaxing
Get To:
Yes, taxi access
Tip:
Family-Friendly
A unique swimming experience in natural pools
Music / Dance:

Traditional Fado music is often heard, with influences of Portuguese folklore.

Places to Network

We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:

Agriculture, Tourism

Madeira

"Madeira, a garden paradise where nature’s beauty thrives against the Atlantic’s backdrop."

Places to Shop

🥕
Calheta Farmers Market
Local Market
Calheta
4.5
Free
Saturday 8 AM - 2 PM
Weekly market with local products
Vibe:
Vibrant
Get To:
Yes, parking available
Tip:
Local Produce
A lively market filled with local produce

Luxury

For More Tips Read Further

Lush & Serene

perennial spring-like climate, botanical gardens, and rugged coastal beauty.

Famous for its Madeira wine.

Madeira is a beautiful Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, often referred to as the "Island of Eternal Spring" due to its mild climate and lush, verdant landscapes. The island is renowned for its fine Madeira wine, steep mountain terrain, and botanical gardens. Madeira’s dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and scenic levadas (irrigation channels) offer visitors a variety of outdoor activities. The island is also a haven for wine lovers, offering tours and tastings at local vineyards. Its combination of natural beauty and cultural offerings makes Madeira a unique and desirable destination.

Watch Out

Watch out for Crowded Areas

CR7 Museum

A unique museum dedicated to the career of CR7
Avenida do Mar
Affiliate Link

Off the beaten path places in

Madeira

Transportation

Well-connected via airport

City Overview

Madeira, an island in the Atlantic Ocean, is known for its rugged landscape, lush gardens, and mild climate. It offers a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

Madeira

3 Day City Guide

- Day 1: Morning: Hike along a levada. Afternoon: Visit the botanical gardens in Funchal. Evening: Dinner with views of the Atlantic. - Day 2: Morning: Explore the Mercado dos Lavradores. Afternoon: Take a cable car to Monte. Evening: Enjoy traditional Madeira wine. - Day 3: Morning: Visit Cabo Girão Skywalk. Afternoon: Discover local crafts in Câmara de Lobos. Evening: Attend a folklore show.

Current Trends

- Culinary innovations: A rise in farm-to-table dining experiences. - Outdoor activities: Growing interest in adventure tourism and hiking. - Cultural experiences: Increased focus on local traditions and festivals.

Local Events Guide

- Festa da Flor (April): Celebrating the island's floral heritage. - Madeira Wine Festival (September): Showcasing local wines and culture. - New Year's Eve Fireworks (December): A spectacular display attracting visitors.

Local Insider Tips

- Explore the levadas (irrigation channels) for scenic hikes. - Visit the local markets for fresh produce. - Discover the vibrant flower festivals.

Sustainable Travel

- Sustainable tourism: Focus on preserving the natural environment and promoting local culture. - Eco-friendly practices: Many accommodations and tours emphasize sustainability. - Community engagement: Supporting local artisans and producers.

Madeira

Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:

Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey

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Unlock the Hidden Side:

Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.

More Cities to Visit:

🚀
Marseille
Daring Frontier
-63°C
N/A
Euro (EUR) €
Daring Frontier
Vibe:
Marseille is known for its stunning Mediterranean coastline and rich maritime heritage.
Tip:
Marseille is a crossroads of Mediterranean culture, known for its dynamic street life, maritime history, and stunning natural surroundings. With its blend of old and new, it’s a city that always feels alive and full of energy.
🎶
Bonn
Historic Gem
9°C – 18°C
High
Euro (EUR) €
Historic Gem
Vibe:
Beethoven's birth house is now a museum
Tip:
Bonn is known for its rich musical legacy, notably as the birthplace of Beethoven, and for its historical significance as the former capital of West Germany. The city blends its musical heritage with modern culture, offering a dynamic atmosphere for visitors.
🇦🇪
Dubai
Dubai Treasures
28.5
8
UAE Dirham (AED) د.إ‎
Dubai Treasures
Vibe:
Dubai has the world’s largest shopping mall, the Dubai Mall, which features an aquarium and indoor ice rink.
Tip:
Dubai is a beacon of luxury and modernity in the desert. The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is just one of the many architectural marvels that make Dubai famous. The city is also known for its luxury shopping malls, where you can find everything from high-end boutiques to unique local finds. But Dubai isn’t just about opulence; the city also offers a rich cultural scene with traditional music and dance performances.
🇵🇹
Lisbon
Hidden Lisbon
16.7
6
Euro (EUR) €
Hidden Lisbon
Vibe:
Lisbon is home to the oldest bookstore in the world, Livraria Bertrand, established in 1732.
Tip:
Lisbon is a captivating city that offers an ideal mix of history, culture, and modern vibrancy. Its ancient monuments and picturesque neighborhoods like Baixa and Bairro Alto are filled with art, while the lively Fado music captures the soul of the city. In the evening, Lisbon’s culinary delights—especially seafood—are a must-try for food lovers. Lisbon’s scenic tram rides give you an unforgettable view of this coastal gem.
🇬🇧
London
Secret London
11.1
9
British Pound (GBP) £
Secret London
Vibe:
London’s tube is the oldest underground railway system in the world, established in 1863, a vital part of the city’s daily life.
Tip:
London is a place of cultural diversity and unmatched energy, combining centuries of history with the pulse of modern life. Whether you’re catching a show at the West End, exploring the eclectic neighborhoods of Camden, or indulging in one of London’s famous afternoon teas, there’s always something to discover. The city’s reputation as a cultural hub extends to its food scene, with a mix of Michelin-starred dining and buzzing food markets. From the lively energy of Soho to the elegance of Mayfair, London offers an experience for every type of traveler.
⛰️
Kas
Coastal Charm
15-30°C
Moderate
Turkish Lira (TRY) ₺
Coastal Charm
Vibe:
Lycian tombs, stunning diving spots
Tip:
Kas is not only known for its rich history and stunning landscapes but also offers a warm and welcoming community. Whether you're strolling through cobbled streets or taking in the sight of Lycian rock tombs, Kas offers a magical experience. The untouched beauty of its coastlines and ruins make it an ideal place for travelers seeking solitude and adventure. With diving as one of the primary activities, the surrounding waters are some of the clearest in Turkey, offering a peek into the ancient world beneath the waves.