Things to Do in Madeira

In short

The best things to do in Madeira: levada hikes, dolphin trips, lava pools, wine lodges. Skip the tourist traps, hit the real stuff.

Quick Facts

Top activity
Hiking
Must-see
Funchal Old Town
Best views
Pico do Arieiro
Family-friendly
Botanical Gardens
On the water
Dolphin trips

Madeira packs a surprising amount into a small island. Here are the best activities, organised by what you're in the mood for.

Hiking and Levadas

The levadas are Madeira's signature experience. These historic irrigation channels wind through laurel forests, along cliffs and past waterfalls. There are over 300 km of trails, ranging from flat family walks to challenging mountain routes.

The most popular levadas include Levada do Rei, Levada das 25 Fontes and Levada do Caldeirão Verde. For mountain hiking, the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail is the most dramatic.

See the Madeira Hiking Guide for route recommendations and practical advice.

Beaches and Swimming

Madeira's coastline is mostly volcanic rock, but there are some good beaches. Calheta and Machico have imported golden sand. Porto Moniz has famous natural lava pools. Seixal has a dramatic black sand beach.

For a proper sandy beach, Porto Santo has 9 km of golden sand.

Viewpoints

Madeira has some of the most dramatic viewpoints in Europe:

  • Pico do Arieiro: 1,818 m with views across the mountain range
  • Cabo Girão: Europe's second-highest sea cliff at 580 m
  • Eira do Serrado: Overlooks the valley of Curral das Freiras
  • Pico do Facho: Panoramic view of Funchal and the coast
  • Miradouro da Janela: North coast views with volcanic rock formations

Funchal Old Town

The Zona Velha (old town) is Funchal's most atmospheric neighbourhood. Rua de Santa Maria has painted doors, small restaurants and craft shops. The Mercado dos Lavradores (farmers' market) is the best place to try tropical fruit and buy flowers.

Food and Drink

Madeiran food is simple and satisfying. Espetada (beef on a laurel branch), bolo do caco (garlic bread) and poncha (the local cocktail) are the essentials. See the Madeira Food Guide for where to try them.

Cable Cars and Gardens

The Funchal cable car takes you from the old town up to Monte in 15 minutes. From there, you can visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden or ride a toboggan back down the hill — a unique Madeiran experience.

The Madeira Botanical Garden in Funchal has an impressive collection of subtropical plants with panoramic views over the city.

On the Water

Boat trips depart daily from Funchal and Calheta. Dolphin and whale watching is popular — sightings are common from April to September. Deep-sea fishing, diving and snorkelling are also available.

Villages and Towns

Beyond Funchal, explore the island's characterful villages:

  • Câmara de Lobos: Colourful fishing village 10 minutes from Funchal
  • Santana: Traditional A-frame houses and gateway to mountain trails
  • Ponta do Sol: Sunny village popular with digital nomads
  • São Vicente: Quiet north coast town near Fanal Forest
  • Porto Moniz: Natural lava pools and a dramatic coastline

Highlights

  • Hiking levadas is the number one reason people visit Madeira.
  • Funchal has a walkable old town, markets and excellent restaurants.
  • The island has world-class viewpoints — Pico do Arieiro and Cabo Girão are the most famous.
  • Boat trips to spot whales and dolphins run daily from Funchal.
  • The botanical gardens and Madeira Wine Lodge are easy half-day outings.

Good to Know

  • Many activities depend on weather — have indoor alternatives ready.
  • Renting a car gives you the most flexibility for exploring.
  • Public buses cover the main routes but not all trailheads.
  • Book dolphin trips and the cable car in peak season to avoid queues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the number one thing to do in Madeira?

Hiking a levada. These historic irrigation channels wind through laurel forests, along cliffs and past waterfalls. The Levada do Rei and Levada das 25 Fontes are the most popular routes.

Is Madeira good for families?

Yes. The botanical gardens, cable cars, calm beaches and easy walks are great for children. Funchal has a zoo and a cable car to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

What can you do in Funchal?

Explore the Mercado dos Lavradores (farmers' market), walk through the Zona Velha (old town) with its painted doors, visit the Madeira Wine Lodge, ride the cable car to Monte, and eat at local restaurants.

Are there good beaches in Madeira?

Madeira has mostly pebble and volcanic rock beaches. The best sandy beaches are in Calheta and Machico (imported sand). Porto Santo has a 9 km natural sandy beach.

What is there to do on a rainy day in Madeira?

Visit the Madeira Wine Lodge, explore Funchal's museums, go to the CR7 Museum, or drive to the mountain peaks where clouds sometimes clear for dramatic views.

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