Discovered in the 15th century by explorers in the service of Prince Henry the Navigator, the beautiful island of Madeira is situated in the Atlantic Ocean, with its coastline lapped by the waters of the Gulf Stream. With a pleasant climate, dramatic scenery, beautiful flowers and gardens, mountain trails, and a unique island culture, it is a holiday destination with something for everyone. Check out our top ten things to do whilst on a holiday in Madeira.
Unmissable things to do in Madeira
1. Explore Funchal
Funchal, Madeira’s capital, is a lively city blending history, culture, and modern attractions. Stroll through the Mercado dos Lavradores, where local farmers sell fresh produce and exotic flowers. Visit the Sé Cathedral, an architectural gem from the 16th century, and take a walk along Rua de Santa Maria, famous for its colourful doors and street art. The city is also home to fantastic restaurants, bustling markets, and the famous Madeira Wine Cellars, where you can learn more about the island’s signature wine.
2. Experience Madeira wine & cuisine
Thanks to the subtropical climate and volcanic soils, Madeira’s cuisine is based on fresh and varied local ingredients. One of the best things to do in Madeira is to try some of its traditional dishes, such as tuna steak with fried corn, swordfish steak, espetada (beef skewers), limpets, passion fruit pudding, and tropical fruits. Madeira’s wine has received several awards over time, thanks to the region’s natural, unforgettable flavours. The best-known grape varieties of Madeira’s wines are Sercial, Boal, Verdelho, and Malvasia, but there are many others, with wines ranging from dry and semi-dry to semi-sweet and sweet. Several wineries and restaurants offer tastings, traditionally accompanied by Madeira honey cake.
3. Visit the gardens of Madeira
Madeira offers incredible natural landscapes and really demonstrates how inspiring our Earth can be, making it one of our top sun destinations. The island is also known for its many gardens, which are carefully maintained and cherished by both locals and visitors. The subtropical climate allows for a wide variety of flowers, plants, and trees from all over the world to thrive. Their aromas and colours give the island an exotic charm, making it a paradise for nature lovers. With plenty of gardens to choose from, visiting one should definitely be on your list of things to do in Madeira. From orchids to magnolias and anthuriums, there are flowers in bloom all year round, creating a picture-perfect setting for your visit.
4. Take a trip in a Wicker Sledge
Thrills await at every turn! Originally created in the 19th century, these wicker and wood sledges have two to three seats and are controlled by two drivers, called ‘carreiros’, dressed in white with straw hats. The drivers, with great skill and expertise, use thick rubber soles on their boots as brakes during an exhilarating ride full of adrenaline and excitement. A truly unique activity and one of the best things to do in Madeira, this sledge ride offers not just excitement but also breathtaking panoramic views over Funchal. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else.
5. Relax in the natural pools of Madeira
Madeira’s natural pools are one of the island’s most breathtaking attractions, offering a unique way to experience its rugged volcanic beauty. Formed by ancient lava flows and filled with crystal-clear seawater, these pools provide a refreshing and scenic alternative to traditional beaches. The most famous are the Porto Moniz natural pools, where visitors can swim in striking rock formations while enjoying panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
6. Soak in the views from Pico dos Barcelos
For stunning views in Madeira, Pico dos Barcelos is a must-visit. Perched 355 metres above Funchal, it offers a panoramic sweep of the city, lush hills, and the Atlantic stretching beyond. Just a short drive from the centre, it’s a peaceful spot with gardens, seating areas, and a café where you can take it all in. On a clear day, you might even spot the Desertas Islands on the horizon.
7. Explore the lush scenery of Ribeiro Frio Natural Park
Nestled in the heart of Madeira’s mountains, Ribeiro Frio Natural Park is a haven for nature lovers. Known for its rich biodiversity, the park features lush laurel forests, crystal-clear streams, and well-marked levada trails. One of the highlights is the Levada do Balcões, a short, scenic walk leading to a viewpoint with breathtaking vistas over the island’s rugged peaks.
8. Experience extraordinary sunrises & sunsets
For an incredible sunrise in Madeira, go to the mountain of Pico do Areeiro, one of the highest peaks on the island at 5965 feet. Arrive just as the sun is about to rise above the horizon and as the sky begins to change to a paler shade of starlight. Make sure to take photos of this magnificent landscape at this moment, so you can treasure this memory forever. If you’re not an early morning riser, you can also admire the sunset in one of the spots by the sea: Praia Formosa, Madalena do Mar or Paul do mar. Sit in one of the bars close to the sea, where you have front row seats for the sun setting into the ocean. It's really amazing!
9. Visit the picturesque village of Santana
Santana is famous for its charming, traditional thatched-roof houses, which offer a glimpse into Madeira’s past. The village is also home to the Madeira Theme Park, where you can learn about the island’s history, culture, and volcanic origins in an interactive and engaging way.
10. Go dolphin & whale watching in Madeira
Madeira’s waters are teeming with marine life, making it one of the best places in Europe to spot dolphins and whales. Several boat tours operate from Funchal, offering close encounters with these majestic creatures while sailing along the island’s dramatic coastline.
If you’re wondering what to do in Madeira, we’ve got you covered. Discover Madeira’s intriguing history and incomparable scenery with us. We’ll embark on a city tour of Funchal, experience a typical Madeiran evening of food and entertainment, explore the east of the island and much more.
There will also, of course, be plenty of free time to discover Madeira at your own pace. Our holidays to Madeira are now available to book for 2025 and include return flights, the expertise of a local tour guide, accommodation, all transfers and our specially selected excursions and tours.
