December in Madeira
Mild 18 to 20°C days, Christmas lights in Funchal and world-famous New Year fireworks. What to pack, what to book early and winter levada advice.
Quick Facts
- Avg temp
- 18–20°C day
- Sea temp
- 19–20°C
- Rain days
- ~12
- Daylight
- 9.5 h
- Highlight
- NYE fireworks Funchal
December in Madeira is mild, green and festive. Days are 18 to 20°C, the sea is still 19 to 20°C, and Funchal is lit for Christmas with the world-famous New Year fireworks over the bay.
Weather in December
Expect 18–20°C by day and 13–15°C at night in Funchal. At 1,000 m it is 8–12°C and often cloudy. There are about 12 rain days, but showers are usually short and mornings are often clear. The south coast is drier than the north. See the Madeira Weather guide for month-by-month details.
Christmas in Funchal
Funchal's Christmas lights and market run all December. The harbour and Avenida Arriaga are the centrepiece — lights over the marina, nativity scenes and market stalls. The flower and light displays are free and walkable from the old town.
New Year's Eve Fireworks
Funchal Bay hosts one of the world's largest coordinated fireworks displays — fired from land, the harbour and ships at sea. It was once a Guinness World Record holder. Harbour-front hotels sell out a year ahead; seafront restaurants require reservations by November and public viewpoints fill by afternoon on Dec 31.
What to Do
Levada walks are quieter than in summer — Levada dos Balcões and 25 Fontes without the crowds. Boat trips run year-round for dolphin watching, and the laurel forest at Fanal is often at its most atmospheric in December mist.
What to Pack
Light layers, a waterproof jacket, walking shoes and something warmer for evenings. Shorts work on sunny days, but you will want trousers after sunset. Bring a light hat and sunscreen — the UV is still moderate.
Practical Tips
- Book flights and hotels for Dec 28–Jan 2 early — prices double and availability goes by November
- NYE seafront is closed to cars in the evening — walk or book a harbour-view spot
- Some levadas close briefly after heavy rain — check trail status the morning of your walk
- Christmas Day buses run to a Sunday timetable — a car is more reliable that week
- Sea is swimmable but cool — locals swim, most visitors prefer natural pools
Highlights
- Funchal Christmas lights and market run all December — the harbour lights are the centrepiece.
- New Year fireworks in Funchal Bay are among the largest in the world, launched from land and sea.
- Daytime is mild enough for levada walks and sightseeing, evenings are cool enough for a light jacket.
- Sea is still 19–20°C — locals swim, most visitors prefer pools.
- Quieter levadas than summer — Balcoes and 25 Fontes without the crowds.
Good to Know
- Book accommodation and flights for Dec 28–Jan 2 early — prices double and sell out by November.
- NYE vantage points fill by afternoon — reserve a harbour-view restaurant or arrive early at the seafront.
- Pack a light waterproof and layers — December has sunny days and quick showers.
- Some levadas close briefly after heavy rain — check trail status the morning of your walk.
- Christmas Day buses run to a Sunday timetable — a car is more reliable that week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to visit Madeira?
Yes, if you want mild winter sun, Christmas lights and the famous New Year fireworks without summer heat. Expect 18–20°C days, some rain and green landscapes.
How cold is Madeira in December?
Funchal averages 18–20°C by day and 13–15°C at night. At 1,000 m it can be 8–12°C and cloudy. The sea stays around 19–20°C.
Does it rain a lot in December?
December is one of the wettest months, with about 12 rain days. Showers are often short, mornings are frequently clear. The south coast is drier than the north.
Are the famous New Year fireworks worth it?
Yes. Funchal Bay hosts a coordinated display from land, sea and the harbour — widely rated as one of the world’s best. Book a year ahead for harbour-front hotels.
What should I pack for December?
Light layers, a waterproof jacket, walking shoes and something warmer for evenings. Shorts work on sunny days, but you will want trousers after sunset.