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When is the best time to visit Madeira?

In Madeira there is eternal Spring, mild sea and always beautiful landscapes. Any month of the year is good for visiting the island.

There will be few destinations around the world that can boast of continuing in all their splendor at any time of the year - either because there's a rainy season or it starts to get too hot or too cold. But Madeira is unique: any month of the year is ideal for visiting.

There are only two moments that you should pay attention to: in the Summer months (July and August) and at the end of December, due to the magnificent New Year's Eve and the consequent firework display, there are more people on the island. In any case, you will always feel welcome – in the Summer with a bit more heat, and in the Winter with much milder temperatures than in mainland Portugal (there is no need to take a warm overcoat in the suitcase, but be sure to pack t-shirts and a bathing suit all the same).

RECOMMENDED: 🏖️ A guide to Portugal's seven regions 📍 The best things to do in Portugal 🇵🇹 The ultimate 10 days in Portugal

Inês Garcia was previously the food and drink editor for Time Out Lisbon .  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .

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Long days in April and May that are drier and warmer (perfect for giving the summer clothes an early run). Everything is in bloom in spring – and it is time for the annual Flower Festival (Festa da Flor), a colourful extravaganza with a pleasant bouquet that takes place all over the island. Another spring event is the Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT), in which trail runners from all over the world test their endurance on the island’s tallest peaks.

This is when the islands is at its busiest, with domestic and foreign tourists. The average high temperature is 24-25 ºC, with warm sunshine, and rarely falls below 17 ºC, meaning you can be sure of mild nights. This is the perfect opportunity to do a two-for-one and head over to the neighbouring island of Porto Santo (a short flight or boat trip away) to spend a few days on the beaches of golden sand. It rarely rains and there are lots of summer festivals.

Madeira in autumn is always a good bet for prolonging the summer in continental Portugal. In October and November the weather is still warm and sunny, although there is more chance of rain. The sunrise takes on more pink tones. And it is fine for swimming without the shivers.

Think of a sort of sunny autumn. Go swimming in December? We are ready. There is no real concept of winter in Madeira and it is very unusual to see Madeirans wearing these big heavy, padded winter coats (they only wear them if they’re up early to catch the sunrise). It usually rains al little, and there might also be a passing storm, but by February the sun starts shining again. Daytime air and sea temperatures hover around 18-20 ºC. Be warned, though: flights get more expensive in December because of New Year.

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When Is The Best Time To Visit Madeira? (Month-By-Month Guide)

I’ve been holidaying in Madeira for the past twenty-plus years and I don’t plan on stopping any time soon. Safe to say, I love it there … no matter which month I travel in.

Madeira is the perfect escape into nature with warm temperatures year-round (at least compared to the UK) and lots of stunning areas to discover.  

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Madeira for flowers, walks or just great weather, then I’m ready to reveal all with this useful Madeira travel blog .

When Is The Best Time To Visit Madeira For Great Weather?

Madeira has a delightful year-round spring climate, making it the perfect destination for both winter escapes and fun in the sun. In fact, it’s often nicknamed ‘The Island of Eternal Spring’.

Even as early as February, you could be enjoying some much-needed Vitamin D in shorts and a t-shirt by your hotel pool. Although you’ll need to cover up if the clouds (or rain roll in), which is more likely this time of year (although still less likely than ye olde England!)

But if it’s fun in the sun that you’re truly after, then July to October has some of the hottest temperatures on record (usually in the mid-twenties Celsius). Perfect for sunbathing and splashing around in the volcanic rock pools in Porto Moniz (a must by the way!)

When Is The Best Time For Walking In Madeira?

The fact that Madeira is a cheerful little island of eternal spring means that the best time for walking in Madeira is pretty much any time of the year.

That said, you’ll probably want to avoid typically wet months and the hottest months to enjoy every moment.

So in that case, I’d recommend visiting Madeira between the end of April and mid-June. 

Temperatures will likely be in their low twenties celsius, so warm but not unbearably hot. It will also be relatively dry and is also the best time of year to see Madeira’s flora and fauna.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Madeira For Flowers?

Did you know that Madeira also has another nickname? It’s often referred to as the ‘Floating Garden of the Atlantic’ thanks to its colourful and varied flora and fauna.

The stunning scenery and escapes into nature are easily some of the top reasons to visit Madeira, so if you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Madeira for flowers then I’m here to reveal all. 

Even though you’ll be treated to mesmerising flower displays (both natural and man-made) throughout the year, there’s no better time to visit Madeira for flowers than in the spring (particularly in April and May).

Not to mention spring is also when the Madeira Flower Festival is in full swing. Festival dates change each year but it’s always after Easter and often in April or May.

But if you won’t be visiting Madeira in spring, then you’ll still get the chance to see an abundance of flowers. Madeira is truly a nature lover’s paradise and you’ll rarely be left disappointed!

Either way, the Madeiran flowers, plants and trees that are most worth finding during your trip are:

• Strelitzia: This interesting plant is Madeira’s signature flower and it grows in abundance throughout the island year-round. It’s often nicknamed ‘the bird of paradise’ as it looks like exactly that; an exotic bird.
• Poinsettia: Who doesn’t love a poinsettia with all its festive feels? This red flower known for its connection with Christmas is always a firm favourite. Best seen from October to February.
• Sword Aloe: If you’ve never seen a flowering aloe plant before then a sword aloe plant is a must to see in Madeira. While the stem of the plant will be its tell-tale sign, its red and yellow spiked flowers will surprise you. Its flowers can often be seen from October to December.
• Coral Trees: Although not strictly flowers, coral trees are still colourful and beautiful to see. Madeira’s Santa Catarina Park is home to a number of the ‘Erythrina speciosa’ variety. Best seen from January to April.
• Pink Ball Trees: Another pretty flowering tree is the Pink Ball Tree, which looks like it’s holding balls of pink flowers upside down. The flowers bloom from December to March.
• Jacaranda Trees : Showcasing pretty purple flowers that look a little like bluebells, Jacaranda Trees can be found all throughout Madeira and especially within Funchal. Best seen in April and May.

But in truth, these are just a handful of the striking flora and fauna you can see during your trip. 

Whether you’re walking along the Levadas or hiking through the clouds, strolling into Funchal or lazing by the pool, you’ll see a smattering of bright and beautiful flowers in Madeira that you can’t help but smile at.

Choose The Best Month To Visit Madeira With This Year-Round Madeira Travel Blog

In case you still can’t decide on when is the best time to visit Madeira based on what you want to see and do, then here’s my quick round-up of what Madeira is like throughout each month of the year…

Visiting Madeira In January

Although the winter months are the coldest time of year to visit Madeira, the temperatures of around 15-18℃ can still rival UK summers.

However, January is also one of the wettest months to visit Madeira (averaging 13 days of rainfall), so you might not always be able to enjoy the warm temperatures. Your best option would be to visit later on in the month when rain is less likely than in early January.

That said, given that January is totally outside of Madeira’s peak travel season, it’s a cheap time to visit and you’re also less likely to find crowds!

Visiting Madeira In February

February is still within Madeira’s winter season and the temperatures are much the same as in January (on average). 

That said, my first trip to Madeira was at the end of February and we enjoyed temperatures of around 20 degrees Celsius every day. At that point, Madeira officially became one of my favourite winter sun destinations .

Rain is a little less likely than in January but still averages around 11 days per month.

February is also a likely month to see the Carnival of Madeira , which happens annually around 40 days before Easter. It usually runs for a couple of weeks and is a dazzling display of glitzy over-the-top costumes, heart-thumping music and parading floats.

Visiting Madeira In March

March in Madeira sees the return of spring, and with it, comes slightly warmer temperatures of around 20℃. 

At an average of 11 days of rainfall per month, the likelihood of rain in March is the same as in February. But with this rainfall comes the return of spring flowers.

There’s no doubt that April and May are the best months to visit Madeira for flowers, but March helps to kick things off with its colourful floral displays that outshine those of February and the other winter months.

Visiting Madeira In April

At around 20℃ and 10 days of rainfall on average, April’s weather is much the same as March.

But one of the top reasons to visit Madeira in April is the annual Flower Festival , which is held after Easter and happens in either April or May.

Not only that, but the traditional village of Santana also holds an annual Lemon Festival, so a visit here during your trip will bring the sunshine colours and citrus scents of this delightful little fruit.

Visiting Madeira In May

May temperatures are usually ever so slightly warmer than March and April temperatures with averages of around 21℃.

But the likelihood of rain halves! May averages around 5 days of rain, so if it’s warmer temperatures, charming walks in nature and fun in the sun that you’re after, then May is a great time to visit.

Not to mention it’s also sometimes the month of the stunning Flower Festival (depending on when Easter is).

Visiting Madeira In June

June in Madeira welcomes the start of summer… but the temperatures aren’t quite the hottest of the year yet. 

June temperatures average around 22℃ (so slightly warmer than in May), but the average rainfall is 4 days so also about the same as May.

Throughout June, you’ll also get a chance to attend the Atlantic Festival , which happens on each Saturday of the month. This festival welcomes a dazzling display of fireworks and live music shows in Funchal .

Visiting Madeira In July

With average temperatures reaching around 24℃, July is when Madeira starts to sizzle… or at least the spring island’s version of sizzling.

Rain also almost comes to a complete stop with only 2 days of rain on average. Therefore, July is a great month to visit Madeira if you’re after some fun in the sun.

Visiting Madeira In August

August temperatures in Madeira reach higher still with averages of around 26℃ and the same likelihood of rain as in July (roughly 2 days per month).

The end of August also sees the start of the Madeira Wine Festival , which is a big hit come September. This festival takes place during Madeira’s grape harvest and pays homage to Madeira’s most loved cultural traditions.

Visiting Madeira In September

At 26℃, September temperatures in Madeira are about the same as in August, but rain is much more likely (with an average of 7 days in the month).

September is when the Madeira Wine Festival is in full swing, but towards the end of the month, another festival is also a big hit. 

The Columbus Festival is a popular re-enactment event of when Christopher Columbus lived on the nearby island of Porto Santo and the time he spent in Madeira.

You’ll need to travel to Porto Santo for this event, which is easily accessible by ferry from the Funchal Marina as either a day trip or overnight stay.

Visiting Madeira In October

October sees the return of temperatures starting to cool ever so slightly. But at 24℃, temperatures are still warm and delightful. 

That said, rain is more likely still with an average of 10 days in the month.

The start of October is also when the Madeira Nature Festival takes place, which encourages you to join a variety of outdoor activities and excursions… completely for free. 

October is when Madeirans celebrate just what makes this island so magical – its gorgeous and unique landscapes.

Visiting Madeira In November

With winter fast approaching, November is an unusual month to visit Madeira, but this also makes it one of the cheapest months to visit.

Temperatures are a comfortable 22℃ on average, and while average rainfall might be 12 days worth, this shouldn’t put you off from exploring Madeira’s top attractions and discovering its delicious food and wine.

Visiting Madeira In December

December in Madeira is the start of winter. Temperatures cool ever so slightly at 20℃ on average, while rainfall is 15 days on average, officially making December the wettest month to visit Madeira.

But with Christmas and New Year celebrations to look forward to, I doubt that you’ll be put off from visiting Madeira in December.

In December, charming Christmas markets spring up throughout Funchal where you can treat yourself and your loved ones to traditional Madeiran gifts like wicker creations, beautiful plants and tasty treats.

At the end of the month, the New Year celebrations kick off with a bang thanks to a dramatic 8-minute-long firework display in Funchal.

Final Thoughts On When To Visit Madeira

Hopefully, the above info helps you to decide when is the best time to visit Madeira for your trip and what you want to get up to. 

But I couldn’t possibly end this blog without giving you a few final thoughts on when I think is the best time to visit Madeira.

While Madeira is an incredible year-round destination, my favourite months to visit are April, May, June and September. 

These months welcome warmer temperatures (but ones that are not too hot!), so you can enjoy walks, hikes and other outdoor activities around the island. 

Crowds are also fewer, while the fantastic Flower, Atlantic and Madeira Wine Festivals are almost worth the trip in themselves.

Read More About Madeira

Read more Madeira travel blogs to help you plan your trip:

• Is Madeira Worth Visiting? 16 Reasons Why My Answer’s Yes!
• 18 Unmissable Things To Do in Madeira
• One Day in Funchal Itinerary
• 4 Days In Madeira Itinerary
• 7 Days in Madeira Itinerary (No Car Hire Required!)
• Tips & Tricks for Getting Around the Island of Madeira
• How Many Days in Madeira is Ideal (+ Itinerary Suggestions)
• 20 Best Things To Do in Funchal, Madeira
• 11 Incredible Day Trips From Funchal

Over to you now – when do you think is the best time to visit Madeira? Let me know in the comments below…

Did you like this? Pin it now, read it again later!

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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Best time to visit Madeira (weather, whales, flowers…)

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

When is the best time to visit Madeira? Well, it depends on your criteria.  Below is my complete guide with details to help you make your decision based on:

• Weather (temperature, rain, water…),
• Crowds and price,
• Whale watching opportunities,
• Hiking conditions,
• Winter sun,

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Madeira:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Madeira: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Catamaran tour to go whale watching

My favorite excursion from Funchal:   4×4 tour of East Madeira

MMy favorite places to stay in Funchal:  Les Suites at the Cliff Bay  (Luxury) –  Sé Boutique Hotel  (4 stars) –  Market Place by Storytellers  (apartments)

My favorite places to stay outside Funchal:  Saccharum Resort  near a beach (Luxury) –  Estalagem da Ponta do Sol  (4 stars) –  Engho Velho Hotel  (mid-range)

Best time to visit Madeira – Summary

Best month to visit madeira.

Madeira is enjoyable all year long, but if I had to pick one month as the best months, I would choose: JUNE because of:

• Great temperatures,
• Hardly any rain,
• Before the Summer crowds,
• Flowers still blooming,
• Good whale activity,
• Morning clouds of great sunrises.

Best time to visit Madeira – Criteria

If you don’t want to read the entire article, here is a summary depending on what you are looking for:

• Weather, Rain – The driest months are June, July and August, the wettest months are October to mid-April.
• Weather, temperatures – Summer temperatures are around 24°C at water level, and also hot in the mountains. Some days, when wind blows from the Sahara, temperatures can climb above 30°C Winter daytime temperatures are around 20°C on the lower parts of the island (it can be cold in the mountains).
• Swimming – Best time to swim in the ocean is from June to October with sea temperature averaging 23°C
• Crowds – September to October tend to be the quieter months on the island. But there is a general flow of tourists all year-long. The busier months are July and August. Christmas time and winter holidays are also popular times.
• Price – Prices are of course higher when the island is the most crowded – Summer 

• Flowers – Spring of course, and the flower festival in Funchal takes place in May.
• Whales – The best time to see whales is in Summer (there are more of them).
• Hiking – May, June, September and October – temperature are great for hiking – and, since many hiking paths are narrow, it is better to avoid the Summer crowds
• Festivals – Check out dates if you want to participate of avoid them.The famous Carnival celebrations take place around the end of February.
• For photography – Great lights can be found all year-round June and July have more chances to have blankets of clouds early morning, to offer you unforgettable sunrise above the clouds

Visual overview – best time to travel to Madeira

Below is an infographics to help you visualize the best times and decide the best time to go to Madeira based on your criteria.

If you are looking into visiting specifically in Winter, check out my article about Madeira in Winter .

Need help to plan your trip to Madeira? Check out my travel guide eBook that simplified planning:

Plan your dream trip in Madeira thanks to my guide

• 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 120+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• Tips to make the most of your time
• 260+ original photos to help you choose

Best times to go to Madeira for WEATHER, crowds…

When is the best time to visit madeira for great weather.

Overall, the climate can be described as meditteran-subtropical, offering an “ eternal spring “. It is rarely particularly cold or particularly hot. At sea level, temperatures are comfortable all year long. Just know that:

• Some days in Summer, the wind can blow from the Sahara and create over 30°C temperatures
• in Winter, the temperatures are pleasant at sea level, but can be cold in the mountains (with snow sometimes)

Because of the mountains in the middle of the island, there are different climates. So if you don’t like the weather where you are , check out the other side of the island.

• The north of the island has more rainfall and, therefore, lush vegetation. 
• The south is drier and offers more hours of sunshine.

Length of the days & amount of sunshine

• in Winter – 10 hours of daylight with sunrise around 7am to 8m and sunset from 6pm to 8pm
• in Summer – 12 hours of daylight with sunrise around 7am to 8m and sunset from 8pm to 9pm

Because of the mountains, blankets of clouds can appear anytime of the year. They are very frequent in the mornings in June and July. The South receives more sunshine than the North.

Rain in Madeira

Rainfall is concentrated from October to mid-April. In Summer, rains are quite rare, especially on the South side of the island.

Temperatures in Madeira

As written earlier, Madeira has an Eternal Spring weather, at sea level.

• In Spring, you are at around 20 to 22°C during the day and 13 to 17°C during the night
• In Summer, you are at around 22 to 26°C during the day and 17 to 19°C during the night
• In Autumn, you are at around 22 to 25°C during the day and 15 to 19°C during the night
• In Winter, you are at around 19 to 20°C during the day and 13 to 14° during the night.

Just remember that there is greater variation in the mountains. They can be cold in Winter, with even snow.

Water temperatures in Madeira

The sea in Madeira is never very high in temperature. It is deep around the island.

• In Spring, expect 17 to 18°C
• In Summer, 21 to 23°C
• In Autumn, 20 to 22°C
• in Winter, 17°C to 19°C

Because of the Eternal Spring weather, Madeira receives a constant flow of tourists all year-round. However, the busiest times are:

• the Summer holiday months of July and August,
• Christmas time,
• and the Winter European holidays, for people looking for Winter Sun.

Need to rent a car in Madeira?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
• And choose a car not too big, to easily manoeuver
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Best time to visit Madeira for FLOWERS

Spring explosion.

Madeira is sometimes referred to as the ‘floating garden of the Atlantic’. Thanks to the combination of the Location and the mountains in the middle of the island, Madeiras has a lush, varied and colorful flora.

You can see lush vegetation and beautiful flowers all year-round, however the full bloom and color explosion is, of course, during Spring time.

Plus, during that time, you can have a chance to be traveling during the Madeira Flower Festival, which includes:

• performances of folk groups,
• construction of beautiful floral carpets,
• music and concerts…

Special flowers to find

And if you are after specific flowers, know that, for example:

• Strelitzia: Madeira’s signature flower, “the bird of paradise” – grows throughout the island year-round. 
• Poinsettia: Red flower – Best seen from October to February.
• Sword Aloe: best seen from October to December.
• Pink Ball Trees: The flowers bloom from December to March.
• Jacaranda Trees : with pretty purple flowers, bloom in April and May.

Best time to travel to Madeira for WHALES and dolphins

Overall best time to go dolphin- and whale-watching in madeira.

Many species of dolphins and whales visit the island during different seasons. But as general rules:

• You can see whales and dolphins all year,
• There are always at least 2 or 3 species of whales around,
• Tours are running year round,
• The highest quantity of species is  from April to September,
• In Summer, the dolphins generally gather closer to the coast, in more shallow waters
• There is a much bigger chance of seeing dolphins than whales (they spend a lot of time underwater)

Learn more in my article about Whales and Dolphins in Madeira .

Species  of dolphins & best months

The most common species of dolphins you will see in the waters surrounding Madeira are the  Bottlenose dolphins . They live there year round.

Other species depending on the season:

• Common dolphin – January to July
• Striped Dolphin – February to April and July to November
• Atlantic Spotted Dolphin – March to October
• Rough-toothed Dolphin – May to September
• Risso’s Dolphin – May to October

Best time to visit Madeira for HIKING

The island of Madeira offers some wonderful hiking opportunities:

• Over volcanic cliffs,
• Along levadas (irrigation systems) surrounded by lush vegetation,
• On top of the mountains,

Check out my article with the best hikes and levada walks in Madeira .

You can hike all year round, but here are a few things to be aware of to make your decision:

• In Summer, temperature can raise quite high in the afternoon – you should start hiking early morning
• Most hikes have narrow pathways and can have hikers in both directions (many levada walks are return hikes, not loops). Therefore, in Summer they can feel crowded.
• In Winter, the mountains can be a lot colder and occasionally have snow
• In Winter, there is more rain and the waterfalls will be fuller.

Therefore, the best months to hike in Madeira are in the shoulder seasons – May, June, September, and October, unless you want to see the waterfalls in full force.

Where to stay in Madeira?

My favorite places:

• Funchal , for a choice of restaurants and if you don’t rent a car –  see best-rated accommodations
• Funchal Lido , for luxury resorts – see best-rated hotels
• Machico , for a sandy beach – see best-rated accommodations
• Porto da Cruz , for a quiet village in beautiful scenery – see best-rated accommodations
• Ribeira Brava , for a practical location to explore the island – see best-rated accommodations
• Porto Moniz , to enjoy the natural pools – see best-rated accommodations

How is Madeira at Christmas?

What is Madeira like at Christmas? Madeira is a popular destination for Christmas. Christmas and the New Year are celebrated at the same time everywhere in the “Christian world”.

Weather conditions

Temperatures at sea level are very pleasant, around 19/20°C during the day. Water temperature is low (around 17°C), so it is not the best time for swimming.  But the weather is pleasant for walking and exploring the whole coast of the island.

Christmas trees & decorations

Because of the mild climate, you won’t find many traditional pine trees, but mostly artificial trees. They are traditionally decorated with balls, Christmas Lights, snowflakes, bows, wreaths, etc. 

Madeirans love decorating for every festival and events. You will see a lot of decorations, especially in Funchal.

If you walk around, you will also see many Nativity scenes in the form of a staircase or in a rock-shaped form (like a cave). Locals call them “lapinha”. It is often a small altar of three hauls, covered with a red and a white lace tablecloths. At the top is a small statue of the Baby Jesus, and on the other steps the shepherd, other figures and fruits.

Around Christmas events

Madeira has several traditions around Christmas:

• The Childbirth masses, a set of nine religious ceremonies (called “novenas”), taking place at dawn in parishes throughout the island. They happen between December, 16th and Christmas Eve. They are often followed by singing gatherings.
• On December 23rd, there is a Market night in Funchal at the Mercado dos Lavradores – where people shop for fruits and flowers
• On December 31st, there is a special fireworks show that entered the Guinness book of records as the largest show in the world (from 2006 to 2012)

Christmas food

Of course, no tradition is complete without food specialities:

• Madeira Honey cake – can be bought all year round, but linked to Christmas
• Christmas in Madeira is filled with sweets and the cookies
• “Carne Vinha D’Alhos”

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

Best months to visit Madeira – pros and cons

Madeira in winter , madeira in january.

• Pros – Winter Sun – pleasant temperature Great time to surf in Madeira Christmas lights until the 6th January Cheap outside of Christmas Great for waterfalls
• Cons – One of the rainiest months (but not that much…) Cold in the mountains

Madeira in February

• Pros –  Winter sun, and pleasant temperature Carnival at the end of the months Rain is less likely than in January – still great for waterfalls
• Cons –  Coldest month of the year (but not that cold…) Still some rain

Madeira in March

• Pros –  Temperatures are starting to rise, reaching around 20°C in average during the day Some flowers start blooming Winter Sun
• Cons –  Still some rain, as in February – still great for waterfalls

Madeira in Spring 

Madeira in april.

• Pros –  Flowers are blooming Flower Festival takes place in April or May Lemon Festival in Santana
• Cons –  Roughly the rain level as March and February

Madeira in May

• Pros –  Flowers are abundant Flower Festival takes place in April or May (depending on Easter) Many festivals are taking place Temperatures are a little bit warmer A lot less rain than in March (half the chances of rain)
• Cons –  Sea water has not warmed up yet

Madeira in June

• Pros –  Great temperatures around 22°C Many flowers still in bloom Sea temperature start to rise Morning clouds for photographers Atlantic Festival and fireworks Hardly any rain, in theory
• Cons –  Morning clouds can be a negative for those looking for sun…

Madeira in Summer 

Madeira in july.

• Pros –  Warm weather Comfortable water temperature Hardly any rain Morning clouds for photographers
• Cons –  More crowded

Madeira in August

• Pros –  Warm weather Comfortable water temperature Hardly any rain Madeira wine festival starts at the end of the months (with harvest starting)

Madeira in September

• P ros –  Warm weather Comfortable water temperature Madeira wine festival Columbus Festival  Less crowded than August
• Cons –  A little bit more risk of rain, but not much

Madeira in Autumn 

Madeira in october.

• Pros –  Temperature still warm at 24°C Water can still be warm Madeira Nature festival with outdoor activities Prices start dropping
• Cons –  More chances of rain 

Madeira in November

• Pros –  Cheap Less crowded Temperature are still pleasant Waterfalls can have more water
• Cons –  Sea water is now cooler

Madeira in December

• Pros –  Christmas and New Year’s festivities Still enjoyable temperatures
• Cons –  Rain is more likely

Best time to travel to Madeira and more – FAQs

Best time to visit funchal.

Funchal is a great destination all year round. There is no difference between Funchal and the rest of the island. This entire article applies. Funchal is on the South Side of the island, so it has more sun and is protected from most winds.

Is Madeira worth visiting?

Whatever the time of the year, Madeira is a worthy destination with mountains, beaches, cliffs and volcanic features. The landscapes are simply breathtaking. Check out my selection of 40 pictures to get an idea.

What is the hottest month in Madeira?

August is normally the hottest month in Madeira with temperature around 25 and 26°C during the day (but they can go above 30°C when the dry wind from the Sahara is blowing).

How many days do you need to visit Madeira?

The island is not that big. From Funchal you can reach almost all destinations within 1h, thanks to the many tunnels. The minimum to visit Madeira is a week, but I really think that 10 days is a better timeframe. With only one week, you would have to rush your experience or make some choices of places to see.  I think the best length for your Madeira trip is between 10 days and 2 weeks (and more if you want to explore the island of Porto Santo as well).

Don’t visit for a long weekend. The island is far from Europe and landings can be delayed because of wind. Learn more on my 42 Madeira Travel Tips.

Want to see more of the best Madeira offers?

• 42 Madeira travel tips to plan an unforgettable trip –  read article
• Where to stay in Madeira – best areas – read article
• 35 best things to do in Madeira – read article
• The best landscapes in Madeira in 40 pictures – read article
• The 7 cables cars in Madeira and their amazing views – read article
• 10 best hikes & levada walks in Madeira – reach article
• Tips to drive around Madeira – read article
• 12 Madeira Hidden Gems – read article
• 4 Madeira Natural Pools (and 6 coastal alternatives) – read article
• 18 best beaches in Madeira – read article
• 7 best Madeira boat tours & trips – read article

Planning a trip to Madeira?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

Want to see more of MADEIRA?

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Madeira in Winter

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The Best Time to Visit Madeira Island, Portugal for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Madeira Island for ideal weather are

April 16th to September 16th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Madeira Island Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Madeira Island Travel Info

Weather in madeira island.

Average temperatures in Madeira Island vary little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel very enjoyable all year with a low chance of precipitation most of the year. The area is among the most temperate — in the 90th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Madeira Island, the hottest months are August, September, and then July. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late August to early September where highs are regularly around 81.1°F (27.3°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 70.1°F (21.2°C) at night.

Madeira Island Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Madeira island temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Madeira Island Perceived Temperature (F)

Madeira island perceived temperature (c), average madeira island temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Madeira Island are August, July, and then June. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around late May to early June. For example, on the week of May 28th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in late December with an average of 2 days of significant precipitation the week of December 24th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Madeira Island.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Madeira Island (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Madeira Island has some high humidity months, with other comfortably humid months. The least humid month is February (55.9% relative humidity), and the most humid month is June (63.9%).

Wind in Madeira Island is usually extremely calm . The windiest month is December, followed by February and March. December’s average wind speed of around 3.9 knots (4.5 MPH or 7.2 KPH) is considered “light air.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early March where average top sustained speeds reach 7.4 knots, which is considered a gentle breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Madeira Island.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to madeira island.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for Portugal; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Oct 30, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Madeira Island, Portugal is January, followed by February and October. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Madeira Island in November. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall madeira island travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel moderate. Highs range from 73.4°F (23°C) and 67.2°F (19.6°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with 2 to 5 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the slowest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for deals.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see the least precipitation with 0 to 1 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the second busiest season for tourism in Madeira Island, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly more.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 80.4°F (26.9°C) and 70.7°F (21.5°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 4 to 6 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is somewhat cool this time of year in Madeira Island to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 70.5°F (21.4°C) and 67.2°F (19.6°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 3 to 6 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Portugal › Madeira Island, Portugal

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A first-timer's guide to the magical island of Madeira

Jul 24, 2023 • 8 min read

Hiking on a levada trail is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Madeira © Paul Biris / Getty Images

Located off the coast of Africa but also an autonomous region of Portugal, Madeira has its own unique identity.

Rugged and subtropical, home to both tropical fruit and legendary wine, seaside resorts and remote mountain villages, misty forests and rocky beaches, it’s the kind of place that makes your head spin – in a good way.

In particular, Madeira has much to offer the independent and intrepid traveler. Hiking, swimming, diving and surfing are not only accessible but exist at a variety of skill levels. And a unique and delicious food and drink scene awaits you between pursuits.

When should I go to Madeira?

Madeira is blessed with a subtropical climate, and the island experiences an average temperature of 70°F (21°C).

January sees the most rainfall, while the waters surrounding the island are at their warmest in September. If you're seeking peace and quiet, you may want to avoid the crush of tourists in August. Otherwise, Madeira is a great vacation option virtually year-round.

Is it easy to get to and around Madeira?

Madeira is linked to the world via Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (yes, he’s a native of the island), a destination for international flights, including  direct flights from New York City .

However, getting around the island is a bit more complicated. There is an extensive public bus transport system, but if you want to hit the more remote corners for hiking routes or beaches, you’ll almost certainly need a car. Several car hire companies have offices at the airport, although rates aren’t cheap.

Driving in Madeira has its challenges. The island is incredibly hilly, and its roads can be intimidatingly steep and winding. If you don’t feel confident driving in these circumstances, be sure to rent an automatic (more expensive than the standard European manual, but worth it in this case).

How long do I need in Madeira?

Because Madeira’s highlights are found at disparate points across the island, a stay of at least four days is necessary. Consider a night in Funchal to get oriented, and supplement this with stays in one or two more destinations elsewhere on the island – dedicate a day to active pursuits and, ideally, the following day to recover on the beach. Tack on at least another two nights if you plan to hit Porto Santo, the other inhabited island that forms part of the Madeiran Archipelago.

Top things to do in Madeira

Hike a levada or a vereda.

Nearly all of Madeira’s rain falls on the island’s north shore, so to facilitate agriculture on the island’s south, its early settlers created a series of man-made aqueducts known as levadas . Madeira is home to more than 804 km (500 miles) of levadas , a feat of engineering recognized by Unesco. Today, the island’s levadas , as well as its veredas (a general word for a path) double as hiking routes, which often pass through spectacular scenery and landscapes that include waterfalls, cliffs, jungle and incredible viewpoints.

Levadas exist in varying degrees of difficulty and repair; check out  WalkMe , a regularly updated guide, to see if the levada you have in mind is open and safe.

A popular, entry-level walk is the Levada do Caldeirão Verde , on the island’s west end. The hike spans a relatively easy 11.8km (7.3 miles) round trip, which passes through diverse scenery that includes a lagoon and waterfall. Another popular walk with an entirely different feel is the Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço , a 7.2km (4.4 miles) round-trip that tackles the island’s dry, rocky easternmost point and includes an opportunity for a refreshing dip in the ocean.

For those looking for more of a challenge, consider the trails that summit Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo , the latter the island’s highest point, and a route that occasionally goes above the cloudline.

Ride a cable car

Madeira’s coast is home to fajãs , areas backed by cliffs that were previously only accessible to boats. That is until a series of cable cars were built. Originally used to shift goods and crops, today Madeira’s cable cars also transport tourists and day-trippers.

The Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz, on the island’s northwest corner, is 600m long, lasts five minutes and is one of the steepest cable cars in Europe. The destination is a vast, crowd-free rocky beach.

Also impressive is the cable car that descends to Fajã dos Padres , a rocky beach that is home to a farm and banana plantation, a cafe/restaurant and a dock for swimming.

Swim in a natural pool

The waters that surround Madeira have both an otherworldly azure hue and a temperature that’s accessible year-round. Unfortunately, the island’s rugged geography and stone beaches mean that accessing that water isn’t always easy. Thankfully, on a few different spots across the island, locals have taken advantage of lava outcroppings to sculpt oceanside swimming pools.

The most famous natural pool is in Porto Moniz, on the island’s northwestern corner, although with its extensive handrails, bathrooms and changing rooms, it doesn’t feel so natural these days. An even more dramatically-positioned version can be found at Doca do Cavacas, on the island’s south shore. For something much more natural, consider the pools in Seixal or Cachalote, both of which also have the benefit of being free.

Taste fortified wine

Madeira’s eponymous wine was created when barrels of the stuff spent months on ships baking in the hot sun. This happy accident caused the wines to oxidize, giving them an entirely new and desirable set of flavors and aromas. Today, seven houses on Madeira make fortified wines in this style, nearly all of whom offer tours and tastings. H.M. Borges , in Funchal, was founded over a century ago and is one of the more traditional houses on the island – they offer a visit and tasting with advance notice. Barbeito is one of the more progressive houses and offers a variety of tastings daily.

Madeira also used to be the most important center of sugar production in the world and there are still six operational sugarcane mills/distilleries on the island. Today, it’s the only place in Europe that produces agricultural rum – rum distilled from sugarcane juice rather than from sugar or molasses. North Mills Distillery , on the island’s north shore, is one of the only remaining steam-powered factories in Europe. Contact the distillery to arrange a visit and tasting, including a Rum Masterclass. In the island’s south, Engenhos da Calheta dates back to 1901, offers tastings, and is also a good place to buy bolo de mel , Madeira’s signature sweet that combines molasses, citrus juice, lard, Madeira wine and spices.

Much of the local rum makes its way into poncha , a drink that combines white rum, orange and/or lemon juice and honey and/or sugar, which is then whipped to a frothy consistency with a special wooden tool. One of the most popular places for the drink is Taberna da Poncha , located in a mountain town in the island’s interior.

Visit a beach

Specifically, a rocky beach. Madeira’s particular geography and location mean that the island’s beaches consist exclusively of round stones. Buy a pair of aqua socks to traverse this relatively challenging terrain, and take note of the haunting roar of tens of thousands of rocks spinning and shifting with each wave.

If you want sand, head to the man-made beaches at Calheta or Machico, or take the ferry to Porto Santo, which has a 7.5km (4.6 miles) fine-sand beach that’s considered one of Europe’s best.

Eat an espetada

Madeira’s signature dish is espetada , chunks of beef marinated in garlic and bay leaves, skewered on a laurel branch or metal skewer, and grilled. To serve, the skewers are hung from unique contraptions, and diners pair them with bolo do caco , a type of bread made in part with sweet potato that’s toasted and slathered with garlic butter; milho frito , cubes of deep-fried polenta; and a green salad.

It’s a delicious combination of dishes, not to mention the perfect post-levada-walk meal. It’s also a fun way to eat, with espetada venues in Madeira ranging from butcher shops, where you choose your cut and grill your own skewer, to old-school restaurants.

My favorite thing to do in Madeira

I love digging into regional food and the Sunday market in Santo António da Serra, a mountaintop village in the island’s east, is Madeira’s culinary scene in miniature. Vendors assemble in the early morning and bring a huge variety of tropical fruits – bananas, of course, but also passionfruit, guava, papaya, custard apple, pitanga, tamarillo and other fruit generally more associated with South America.

There are also beautiful vegetables, baked goods, dried herbs and local honey, among other items. A handful of stalls sell simple prepared foods, and a butcher provides a grill and tables for a DIY espetada . The market has a particular emphasis on drinks, with vendors selling pitchers of poncha , local cider, and even boozy coffee drinks, all of which are paired with dentinhos –  snacks that can range from deep-fried pork rinds to a tiny salad of favas.

How much money do I need for Madeira?

Unfortunately, Madeira isn’t exactly a budget destination. Accommodation is relatively expensive, with relatively few hostels or budget options, and a rental car is needed to get to the more remote corners of the island.

That said, this is Portugal – food and drink are pretty good value.

• Hostel bed: from €60
• Basic room for two: from €120
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from €120
• Public transport ticket: €1.35
• Coffee: €0.75
• Sandwich: €1.50
• Dinner for two: €40
• Glass of poncha : €2.50

Does it rain a lot on Madeira?

The north half of Madeira can be relatively wet, but the south, including Funchal, only receives between 600mm and 1000mm of rain per year. In general, and especially outside of the relatively wet period between November and February, rain is only an occasional concern on Madeira.

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When Is The Best Time To Visit Madeira?

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Madeira is an autonomous Portuguese region consisting of four islands, two of which are inhabited (Madeira and Porto Santo). Dubbed ‘the land of eternal Spring’, it boasts an incredible climate.

Since it’s located off Africa’s northwest coast, Madeira has a sub-tropical climate, meaning that the summers are hot and dry and the winters relatively mild with some sunshine. This makes it a great destination all year round. Here we explore the best times to visit Madeira Island by season.

Table of Contents

Spring (march to may), summer (june – august), autumn (september to november), winter (december to february), the takeaway.

Spring is a brilliant time to visit Madeira if you want to experience sunshine without the sizzling summer heat. During Spring, you’ll get at least 7 hours of sunshine each day, making it a perfect time to scour the island, appreciate nature, and hit the beach.

The island is also ablaze with stunning flora at this time, thanks to its fertile volcanic soil and lush microclimate. During these months, you’ll also see many a Bird of Paradise flower (the national symbol of the island.)

Best time for: Experiencing the bright and vibrant wildflowers and attending the famous Madeira flower festival.

Related: The 15 Best Places To Visit In March: Worldwide

Summer is an excellent time to visit Madeira, especially if you’re a sun worshipper. The climate is hot and dry at this time, with average temperatures of around 24°C. However, if the hot winds from the Sahara are blowing, they can reach up to 33 °C. This is the ideal time for swimming and catching a tan. The island is also brimming with whales and dolphins at this time, making it perfect for nature lovers.

Best time for: Spotting pods of whales and catching a tan!

Autumn in Madeira is quieter than the other months, making it a fantastic time if you want to skip the crowds. Temperatures are around 22 °C so it’s ideal for those who love hiking or trekking through the mountains. Autumn also boasts lots of delicious fresh produce (like the island’s famous small bananas) and scrumptious seafood, including scabbardfish.

Best time for : Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Visiting Madeira in winter is a grand plan if you want to escape the cold. Daily temperatures are around 18 – 20 °C in the lower parts, and you can still experience about 5 hours of sunshine each day. However, from the capital of Funchal, you might see some snow glistening on top of the mountains, which adds to the magical festive charm. This is the most joyous time to visit the island, with locals partaking in ‘A festa’ celebrations and carnivals in the lead-up to Christmas.

Experience festive delight as Christmas cheer illuminates the island and visit night markets, nativity scenes, and religious gatherings.

Best time for: Festival celebrations and cultural events. It’s also a great time for those who enjoy surfing!

Related: When Is The Best Time To Visit São Tomé And Príncipe?

Madeira is a great option all year long, thanks to its gorgeous Mediterranean climate. The hotter summer months are ideal if you’re a sun follower and you want to spend hours sojourning on the beach. Winter and Autumn, however, are great if you want to relish slightly cooler weather and celebrate festive shenanigans.

Whenever you decide to visit this magical island, you are bound to fall in love! If you are planning on visiting Portugal soon, also be sure to check out our 2 week Portugal itinerary!

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When is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Madeira?

Madeira is a beautiful island situated off the coast of Portugal, and is a popular tourist destination for its lush green landscapes, beautiful beaches, and year-round pleasant climate. However, if you’re planning a trip to Madeira, you may be wondering what the best time of year to visit is. In this article, we’ll explore the various seasons and weather patterns in Madeira to help you decide when to plan your visit.

Spring (March – May)

Spring is a fantastic time to visit Madeira. The island comes alive with an array of colourful flowers and trees, and the temperatures start to warm up after the cooler winter months. During this season, you can expect temperatures to range from around 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F), with fewer tourists and more affordable prices than in the peak summer months. You can also attend the world-famous Madeira Flower Festival in April, which is a celebration of the island’s stunning flora and fauna.

Summer (June – August)

Summer is peak season in Madeira, and it’s the most popular time of year to visit the island. The weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures typically ranging from 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F), making it perfect for beach goers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, and other water sports, as well as exploring the island’s many hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. However, keep in mind that prices may be higher, and the island can get crowded during this season.

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn is another great time to visit Madeira. The temperatures start to cool down, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). You can enjoy many of the same outdoor activities as in the summer months, but with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. The island is also quieter during this season, which is perfect if you’re looking for a more relaxed and peaceful holiday. You can also attend the Madeira Wine Festival in September, which celebrates the island’s rich wine-making tradition.

Winter (December – February)

Winter is the coolest time of year in Madeira, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). However, even in the winter months, the weather remains pleasant and sunny, making it an excellent choice for those looking to escape the cold winter weather in other parts of Europe. You can enjoy a range of indoor and outdoor activities, including exploring the island’s museums and historic sites, hiking, and enjoying the festive holiday season.

In conclusion, Madeira is a beautiful island with a year-round mild and pleasant climate, making it an excellent choice for a holiday at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your stay. Whether you’re looking for warm summer days, colourful spring flowers, or a peaceful winter retreat, Madeira has something to offer for every season.

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The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Madeira

Did you know that Europe had its own Hawaii?

Yes, that's right!

Portuguese archipelago Madeira is often compared to Hawaii and I do not wonder why anymore. During my visit in May 2018 it has surprised me so much how many similarities Madeira and Hawaii islands really had.

Madeira is such an incredible place to visit and for many reasons. Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon , family vacation , if you travel for adventure or if you just wish to escape less gloomy weather . Another name Madeira has been called is the island of eternal spring, so expect pleasant temperatures and fresh air pretty much all year round.

Madeira truly is a European gem which suits to every traveller and you should visit the islands as soon as possible . Each year Madeira is experiencing more and more visitors. Whether you want to swim with dolphins, explore deep canyons, or enjoy delicious dinner at the beach, go and book your ticket now.

I spent in Madeira one week in May 2018 and wanted to share my experience and a little bit of knowledge. Let's take a look on this very detailed guide, where I share with you some of the best places to see, adventures to enjoy, how to travel around the island, where to stay, what to pack, what to eat and a few more handy tips . Are you ready with a big bowl of popcorn?

When is the best time to go to Madeira

If you want to avoid crowds

When I was searching for the best time to visit Madeira, many people were talking about how busy Madeira is at any time of the year. Honestly, that scared me a bit because as you might already know, I don't like crowded places. In fact, I love exactly the opposite. I am not looking for parties or any Eiffel Towers, or Niagara Falls, or Hollywood signs where I have to deal with too many people.

But my fear melted really quickly when we arrived to Madeira. Of course, there are crowded places like almost in any other destination, but it's very easy to avoid them if you want to. I am talking now especially about Funchal and some other places in the southern island. But nothing crazy  - and that means a lot coming from someone like me :)) Northern and Eastern part of Madeira is less crowded in general.

When you want to avoid crowds and book the best hotels without any problem, try to avoid summer holidays. In fact, try to avoid any kind of holidays in general, like Christmas or Eastern. But that's a tip for visiting almost any destination, right?

If you want the best weather... hmmm, what's the best weather?

Good news! Weather in Madeira doesn't have to play a big part in vacation planning. The temperatures are nicely stable throughout the year which makes Madeira a dream destination! Although winter can be slightly more rainy with lower temperatures in the night and early mornings.

Do you want to come when there's the most sunny and dry weather?  Then June is your best bet, but anything between March to September will work too

Are you planning to do lots of hiking and walking? Then April and May are the best months to visit. Any later might get a bit hot for walking, and winter/early spring can be rainy (can be, but not talking about rainy season like they have in Asia ,)

April and May are also the best months to go to Madeira for enjoying all the beautiful flowers ? So if you're keen to visit one of the world's most beautiful garden which is in Funchal, if you want to those iconic sceneries with flowers in the foreground, or rather flowers everywhere, April and May it is.

Madeira is also famous for swimming with whales and dolphins . If you are planning to do anything like this, then the best time to come is between April and October. That's when the highest number of mammal species are in waters of Madeira.

How to get to Madeira

Although, from one quick look at the map, it may seems that getting to Madeira is long and pricey journey, it's not really true.

Nowadays there are many direct flight from Europe which can cost you under 200 dollars return. Those flights can take only about three four hours. You can try connections from London , Amsterdam or Lisboa . But there are many more cities you can fly to Madeira. See them all here .

My go to website to find  the cheapest flights  possible is  Momondo , so definitely check that one first and go from there. If you have any doubts and questions about how to reach Madeira, feel free to send me a message and I'll be happy to help you.

How long should I plan my vacation for?

I only had a spare week and even before I went to Madeira, I had a feeling that it won't be enough. And I was more than right. Yes, you can see the most beautiful/popular places in Madeira in just a week, but hands down, you will be rushing. 

If you can, I would recommend you to stay at least 10 days ! And if you have three weeks, then fine, take it slowly and soak all the relaxing vibes in!

I know, I know, Madeira seems like a tiny island, so you are probably asking now, holly molly, what would I do there for three weeks?! But trust me, there are so many hikes, adventures, culture, and beautiful viewpoints to enjoy, that you will be thanking me for those three weeks :)

What to pack?

When packing for your holidays, please remember that it's not a tropical island you're going to . Frankly, if you are looking for a tropical vacation, white sand beaches and hot hot air, then Madeira is probably not the best pick. There are not so many beaches, all of them (on the main island) are black because of their volcanic origin and water for swimming is quite cold as well.

Madeira is a diverse island and even though at the beach is 25°C or more, within half an hour driving up to 1800 meters above sea lever, temperatures can drop down to zero and wind will be so strong that you will have troubles to stand straight.

Before I will write more detailed post on what to pack and what to leave behind, here is the quick sum up (linked products are the ones I have an experience with and that I am genuinely recommending):

• day backpack
• water bottle
• comfortable walking / hiking shoes
• flip flops / sandals
• warm hoodie / sweater (some days and places are cooler than others)
• softshell jacket (you can thank me later)
• rain jacket
• headlamp (if you plant to hike some of the trails with long dark tunnels)
• waterproof camera/phone case (if you are going to do canyoning / coasteering / swimming with dolphins and whales)

How to get around

When in Madeira you will have have pretty much four options to explore this green island:

• Base yourself in Funchal and hire a taxi driver
• Base yourself in Funchal and book day tours
• Base yourself in Funchal and get around by bus

1. RENT A CAR

Definitely the most convenient way how to explore the island. I probably don't have to name all the reason why renting your own car is the best. It will save you time, nerves and very probably lots of money as well.

• The best deal we found was via rentalcars.com and we only paid around $250 USD for an economy class car for the whole week!!
• I recommend to pay extra for a full insurance , especially if you are not use to drive tight roads. I've been travelling and driving a lot in my life, but nothing was as crazy as Madeira's roads.
• Also, try to avoid renting mini cars . You will need a strong car to get you up the steep hills with no big issues. And make sure you get the most compact car possible. Especially in towns, parking spots are not very spacious and you will be sweating (at least if you're not a parking master just as me, haha).
• Over a week we drove around the island, and criss crossed it many times and one tank of gas was sufficient. We paid 75 EUR for a full tank.

2. BASE YOURSELF IN FUNCHAL AND HIRE A TAXI DRIVER

If you don't want to/ can't drive yourself, but still you want to stay as independent as possible, you can hire a taxi driver. 

In Madeira there are plenty of taxi operators who are offering a various taxi excursions. It will cost you around 100-120 EUR per day (60 EUR / half day) per car (4 people). If you're a bigger group of people (up to 8), it's also possible for an additional cost.

Some of the taxi companies/drivers you can look into:

• Daniel Madeira Taxis
• Madeira Island Taxis
• Manuel Taxi Tours
• Madeira Travel Taxi

3. BASE YOURSELF IN FUNCHAL AND BOOK DAY TOURS

If you like things nicely organized and don't plan to rent a car, this could be a perfect option for you.

You can book some great tours in Madeira with Get Your Guide . They offer a wide variety of activities suitable for anyone.

4. BASE YOURSELF IN FUNCHAL AND GET AROUND MADEIRA BY BUS

Exploring Madeira is definitely the best option for those who seek the cheapest vacation possible. But it sure comes at a cost - you will spend lots of time waiting for buses, trying to figure out schedules and places, you won't afford to be flexible and free and most likely you will miss plenty of breathtaking places that are not on the route of the public buses. 

Yes, public transport in Madeira works well, but frankly, I don't recommend it.

There are three kinds of buses :

• orange buses - operate only within Funchal city and its surroundings, you can buy one week unlimited bus ticket for 15 Euros (buses routes and schedules Horários do Funchal )
• red buses - operate in the western part of Madeira (buses routes and schedules Rodoeste  bus service)
• green buses - operate in the eastern part of Madeira (buses routes and schedules SAM  bus service)

Tickets for all bus services can be purchased onboard.

Driving those crazy roads

I am not a scared driver and I've been driving many insane roads around the world, but Madeira is special. Please note, that the last thing I want to do is to scare you. I am writing this so you know what to expect and so you can be more conscious. And I am convinced that driving Madeira roads is part of the travel experience. 

Madeira is full of long tunnels, steep driveways and sharp curves above the cliffs. Nothing for faint hearted. Roads are often not very specious, which is something you might won't be adjusted to when coming from North Americas or so. But again, you got this! Just drive slowly and you'll be sweet.

As I mentioned above, I recommend you to rent a more powerful car and get a car insurance.

Also it can take really long time to ge from point A to B. Sometimes we were driving 15 kilometres in 17 minutes. Why? Imagine rain, thick fog, steep and curvy roads and there you go. Always count with some extra time for driving in Madeira. Especially in the mountains and on the west and north coast.

Where to stay

Since Madeira is such a small island, you can get around the island in a day. That's the reason why most of the tourists stay in Funchal and do day trips from there. I did it differently which I will describe soon.

Advantages of having an accommodation in Funchal: 

• you can choose from many delicious restaurants and vibrant bars
• you can do shopping if that's something you like to do on your vacation
• you can choose the accommodation that suits the best to your budget and other preferences
• most of tour operators are offering tours from Funchal

Disadvantages of having and accommodation in Funchal:

• because most of tourists stay there when visiting Madeira, city centre can get crowded
• since the tourism boomed, Funchal centre is less authentic than other parts of Madeira
• obviously, you will always have to drive back to Funchal after long day of touring to other sides of the island

What's my recommendation?

To each their own, but here's what I did during my one week in Madeira:

I am not a huge fan of cities and crowded in generally, but I still wanted to explore around beautiful and historical Funchal. Therefore I decided to  stay in Funchal for one night . After that I moved for three days to Ponta do Sol in the south coast of the island and last three days I was in Ponta Delgada at the north.

After our trip, me and my friend we agreed that it was the greatest plan for a week in Madeira we could have ever had. It was never too far to any places we planned to visit, therefore never too tiring to be coming back to our accommodation.

If you only have a week I wouldn't recommend to stay in more than 2-3 places as you will feel like always packing and unpacking.

Here is an interactive map of places where I stayed, so you can imagine the distances of places I stayed (and the airport) a little better:

Accommodation in Funchal

If you decide to stay in Funchal, you can choose from hundreds of different types of accommodation that suits your budget. As always, I recommend my favourite search engine  Booking.com   to find the best deals.

Since we were looking for a place just for one night, we had only a few conditions. It had to be a private room with bathroom, within a short walk to the city centre with free parking and under 50 EUR / night per room.

Free parking combined with the city centre of Funchal was the hardest one to find, but  Pensao Residencial Mirasol  seemed had it all. Free parking, in the city centre, with a private bathroom and also a cute little balcony with mountain views . We only paid 38 EUR / night per room including continental breakfast!! The owners and staff here are really friendly, so there's no wonder that budget travellers keep staying here for weeks.

Various high rated places to stay in Funchal:

Madeira Happy Hostel

Vitorina Corte Guesthouse

Monumental Apartment

Quinta Sao Goncalo

Residencial Pina

ARTS IN Hotel Conde Carvalhal

The Cliff Bay - PortoBay

Quinta Jardins do Lago

Belmond Reid's Palace

Accommodation in Ponta do Sol

Ponta do Sol is a lovely little coastal town and probably the sunniest place on the whole island . During our three days in Ponta do Sol it was really ALWAYS sunny although there was rain or overcast in other parts of Madeira.

We were invited to stay in Estalagem do Ponta do Sol and my oh my! We've never stayed in any similar place to this. It was such a paradise with the best views you could imagine.

Since Estalagem do Ponta do Sol hotel is built on the high cliff, you need to take multiple elevators to get to the reception and your room itself.The views from our room and basically from anywhere within the hotel were nothing short of spectacular and you could watch both sunrise and sunset from the infinite pool.

Estalagem is a peaceful complex with beautiful gardens and modern exteriors and interiors. You can relax in a hot tub with sunset views, you can get your favourite cocktail bar with crazy views or play a table pool in one of the public spaces. Oh, and did I mention breakfasts? Buffet breakfast is included  in the price of the room and something we looked forward to each morning. D-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s!

During our stay there was a lack of parking spots below the hotel, but it's because there was a festival and parking spots were precious. The staff of the hotel were super helpful and when we brought our car keys to them, they were more than happy to park our car for us.

Accommodation in Ponta Delgada

Our accommoddation for last three days was up in the north coast in Ponta Delgada. North was a completely different experience than the south. There was way less tourists, and moutains forests and cute vineyards were everywhere. 

We stayed in Casa do Miradouro and if you are looking for a place to find the peace, this magical villa has it all . Mountains and vineyards behind the house and amazing ocean views in front. From the photos I knew, that sunrises and sunsets from this place are incredible. Unfortunately we did not see the sun at all during our stay, but the rainy mood was suiting this place just as much plus it was a perfect for soak in the hot tub. The villa consist of only three apartments, so we have had plenty of privacy. And I can't imagine better place for my yoga practise and everyday meditation.

We loved the design of the villa, but even more we loved that it is enviromentally sustainable building  (for example cork insulation, natural materials used in interior, solar water heating, no chemicals in the garden). 

If you stay in Casa do Miradouro, please ask Zelio to cook for you! Zelio not only takes care of the villa but he's also amazing cook and a lovely company. We spent last evening with him and he cooked the best food we've tried in Madeira. Fresh fish and limpets with a light cheese dessert were amazing and he deserves nothing less than a Michelin star! So please please please, don't miss out this once in a lifetime opportunity! :)

Live like a local

Are you looking to live like a local or always keen to have unique accommodation experience? Then definitely check AirBnB in Madeira  (if you register through this link, you will get up to 35 dollars to spend for your first stay.)

AirBnB in Madeira is very popular and the list of accommodations is full of design villas, cottages on the clifs or luxurious tents in forests . Just hop on the AirBnB website and explore. The prices are really friendly!

Live with the locals

If you are outgoing and want to meet and live with locals and also if you are a lowcost traveller, you can also try Couchsurfing .

Insider's Tip: Please don't do couchsurfing just for the sake of free accommodation. That's not what this wonderful community is about. It's about sharing. Sharing time, sharing experience and making each others life richer. If you don't feel like talking to someone when travelling, but don't have money for hotels, please look for different options like hostels :) I barely do couchsurfing lately, because after long day of travelling or exploring, I am just happy to sit on my bed and don't talk to anyone, but if I want to talk to someone I can always get out of the hotel and go exploring.

What to see?

So much to see and so much to do in Madeira, that one month wouldn't be enough to explore it all throughout. (I am working on detailed itineraries, so feel free to subscribe to my newsletter . Once it's ready I can send it to you directly into your mailbox).

Here's an interactive map of interesting places, photography spots, view points, activities and restaurants I created for my trip. Of course I didn't have time to do and see everything in a week, but thought it could help you to create your own trip :)

Tropical Garden Monte Palace

Madeira is a paradise for flora lovers. So many flowers and trees, so many colours and heavenly smells.

One of the places you can admire flora the most is Jardim Tropical Monte Palace in Funchal. You will find there some rare flora species both from Madeira and the rest of the world. The entrance fee is 12,50 EUR.

The most popular way to get to the gardens is to take a cable car from the city center . Return ticket is 16 EUR (11 for one way). If you buy just one way ticket, you can experience something truly unique and something what only in Madeira can be experienced :) You can do tobogganing in a wicker basket mounted on wooden runners . It was invented by Madeirans already in 1850 as a form of transportation down the steep hills (did they have to drag it back after?). When you are at the top nearby tropical garden, look for handsome guys in white shirts holding onto the big basket sled.

Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro

Please, make yourself a favour, get up early and drive about 30 minutes from Funchal up to about 1800 metres above the sea level. Most likely you will be driving through the rain and clouds and will be cursing me why would I recommend you such a crazy thing. But hold on and you will eventually  get above the clouds and experience one of the most beautiful sunrises of your life. And all without any huge effort - you can get all the way to the top of the Pico do Arieiro just by your car. 

Tip: Get ready for strong winds and cold temperatures especially early in the morning. I was so happy I've had my icelandic sweater and softshell jacket with me. Wished to have a hat as well. Just be prepared, so you can enjoy the beautiful views. 

This is a must stop when you are in Madeira. I won't be taking it away from you, because with its 580m it's the tenth highest cliff that is above the sea (the highest one is Mitre Peak in New Zealand) and so the views are truly amazing. It's usually packed with lots of tourist and honestly, I enjoyed some of the views in Madeira way better. So, at the end of the day, I don't think I would miss much if I wouldn't go there. But if you are curious and have enough time, definitely give it a go.

Sugar Cane Factory Museum

In Calheta you will find this very unique exhibition , which can make a nice stop when you are driving on the south coast. You can see here how the rum is made from start to finish.

The admission is free and for a small fee you can try different rums.

Ponta do Pargo

To me, this was one of the most beautiful spots I've seen during a week of travelling in Madeira. It's the most western point in Madeira with a lovely lighthouse and absolutely gorgeous cliff views. I could have been sitting there for hours, watching the waves crashing along the shore!

This place is a perfect spot for watching sunset and you won't be sharing it with many. Very likely you'll be here alone when coming later in the evening.

Achadas da Cruz

This place must be on of the best kept secrets in Madeira! By taking a 3 EUR (return) cable car ride off the cliff, you'll get to in Fajã da Quebrada Nova. It somewhat looks like a tiny village but in real, nobody lives there. Some farmers come down from time to time and take care of their land. You can only get there by a boat or a cable car, or hike a steep trail down and back up. It's so beautiful, colourful, remote and looks like a scene from a historic/fantasy movie. It's easy and worthy to spend there at least two hours. Just so you know :) 

The cable car operates from 10am to 6pm every day unless the weather conditions like strong winds won't allow it. It happened to us, so we called them and came back two days afterwards.

The phone number is +351 291 852 951.

(During this trip, my fog was foggy inside, hens this dreamy effect on the photos bellow).

Porto Moniz

On the western part of the island you find something unique, something you might have never seen before. Beautiful lava pools filled with turquoise clear water from the ocean were converted into something we can call a spa. For a small fee 1,50 EUR (free for children under 3yrs) you can go and have a swim in several pools of different depth while enjoying waves crashing against the beautiful cliffs.

The pools are the most popular between July to September when the air temperature is around sweet 25°C and water is bearable 21°C. 

Tip: If you will walk in Porto Moniz towards the eastern part of the town, where is the Cachalote restaurant, you will find there similar lava pools . They are a bit smaller, but they are free and usually with less people.

Sao Vicente Caves

If you are a fan of geology, then you shouldn't miss these volcanic caves Sao Vicente.

A walk through the lava tubes takes about 30 minutes and admission is 8 EUR.

Traditional houses in Santana

Traditional Madeira houses are amongst the most popular attractions and nobody seems to be leaving Madeira without visiting them. It can be a nice short stop, but frankly, don't you expect more than seeing a few iconic houses that you know from the postcards and magazines. I know some people came from there disappointed and gave it bad ratings on Tripadvisor. It is nice, it is traditional and highly photogenic, so come without any expectations and enjoy. 

Ponta de São Lourenço

Situated on the eastern tip of the island Ponta de São Lourenço is a great place for sunrise. This place is quite unreal and looking totally different than the rest of Madeira. You can easily spend here the whole day, walking about 8 km of trails with spectacular coastal views. I recommend to stay reserve at least two hours, so you can enjoy a bit of this place without rushing.

Tip: Ponta de São Lourenço is a popular place and also it is very easy to reach from Funchal and other nearby towns. Hence the parking lot starts to fill up early in the morning. After 11 am the line of the cars is really long and there is quite a bit of tourists and hikers on the trail. So, wake up early, enjoy the sunrise and disappear before the crowds arrive.

Things to do

For such a small island, Madeira has so much to offer in terms of adventuring and activites . Just find something that suits you the best.

Swim with whales and dolphins

There are not so many places where you can swim both with dolphins and whales in one day. But did I already said that Madeira has it all?

If you only want to do dolphin and whale watching, I highly recommend to go with Lobosonda . They are environmentally responsible family owned company and I really liked that they always put animals on first place. On our complimentary trip with Lobosonda we had an amazing guide Fatima, a very kind lady with a great knowledge of the ocean mammals and also marine ecology.

We started at 10am and boarded Ribeira Brava, the traditional fishing boat and launched towards the open ocean. After some time Fatime has pointed her finger towards the ocean where a school of dolphins appeared. Since then we saw more and more dolphins and I am sure we saw more than a hundred that day. And four different species! The water surface literally looked like a one big marine party!

When to go? The best time to watch or swim with dolphins and whales is summer. That's when the highest amount of marine mammals species are gathering in waters of Madeira. Also the waves are more gentle and water warmer. But like any other tours and activities, you can also do this at any time of the year.

Now, canyoning is a big thing in Madeira. I didn't know much about canyoning before I arrived. And surprisingly, it became a highlight of my trip.

Did you know that Madeira is one of the world's prime locations for canyoning (and there are not as many as you might would think)? Well, then put one and one together and you know you can't leave this island without trying canyoning at least once.

I did a wonderful tour with Francisco and Joao from Epic Madeira   and it was absolutely fabulous. Our Intermediate tour included rappelling down the 50m waterfall (you can try a beginner tour for the beginning if you are new to any kind of hiking or climbing). The tour took us almost five hours and I couldn't stop smiling of joy! 

Coasteering

Have you heard about coasteering? No? Then it's two of us. Till now tho :)

Coasteering is basically walking along the coastline in the wetsuit and the helmet and jumping to the ocean whenever it's possible  and also includes snorkelling in crystal clear waters.

Yes, you hear me right! Doesn't it sound great? I was a little sad that we didn't have more days in Madeira as it sounds like a lots of fun (you know I love to dive to water from high cliffs :) ). I save it for the next time then!

You can do coasteering also with my friends from Epic Madeira .

Day boat trips to nearby islands

Madeira archipelago consists of four islands . If you have a little bit more time, you will love exploring some of them as they are so different from what you will see on the main island.

Porto Santo - once you start to miss sandy beaches, hop on the boat and enjoy a day on the small island of Porto Santo where you will find 9 km beach of golden sand and breath taking views

Deserta Island and Farol Island (by a catamaran) - while Madeira has black sand beaches and Porto Santo which beaches, Deserta and Farol islands are having white sand beaches , so it's a completely different world again

Kayak / SUP

You can take lessons or tours to breathtaking sea caves with Azul Diving Center .

Paragliding

Let's fly over the mountains, over the ocean with  Madeira Paragliding .

Horse riding

You can also see the island from the horseback if you want to! Check guys at  Quinta do Riacho .

Scuba diving and Snorkelling

Madeira is an outstanding scuba diving destination. And together with Azores it makes the largest whale sanctuary in the world! Scuba diving here is so diverse as you can spot anything from ship wrecks, manta rays, dolphins or the whales. Also the water visibility is amazing (talking about 20m!) 

There are a few diving centers like Atalaia Diving Center , Azul Diving Center Madeira , Explora Madeira Diving Center  (they also offer freediving).

Surfing and bodyboarding

There are some wonderful breaks for surfing. In fact Madeira is one of the best surfing locations in Europe.  All the breaks are in the west part of the island . For a beginner, there is only one sand beach to learn and it's in Porto do Cruz. Rest of the spots are quite rocky. If you want to learn surf in Madeira, then the best time is summer. In summer the waves are coming not so quickly, so you will struggle less. 

You can take classes, rent a gear with Madeira Surf Camp  or Calhau Surf School .

If fishing is something you enjoy, then you are in the right place! Madeira has some of best fishing areas in the world. Fish for Tuna and Blue Marlins! You can choose between half-day and full day fishing boat tours .

All around the island is about 2000 km of trails , many of them being popular levadas - irrigation channels. Various trails will take you along the coast, accross the mountains and through the valleys full of waterfalls and beautiful forests. Some of them are easy walks and some of them require certain level of hiking experience. But there is something for everyone.

There is a phone app for hiking in Madeira that is called  WalkMe . It includes navigation, offline maps and more than 50 hikes and is definitely worth the 5 Euros!

Remember that if you don't feel like hiking alone, you can always take a tour or hire a private hiking guide .

Some of the most beautiful and popular hikes are:

• Vereda do Arieiro (PR 1) - Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo route is considered to be the hardest but also the most beautiful on the island. I would say it's not as hard if you are use to do some walking and hiking. Reconsider to go if you are too scared of heights tho :). To truly enjoy this hike without unnecessary rushing, allow yourself a full day.
• Levada do 25 Fontes (PR 6)  - Probably the most famous levada, so early morning or late afternoon start is necessary if you want to avoid crowds.
• Levada do Caldeirao Verde (PR 9) - Very fun hike going through a couple of long tunnels (take a headlamp with you) and it ends with fantastic 100m waterfall
• Vereda do Larano  - This hike starting at Machico will allow you to see absolutely amazing ocean views. It is recommended for experienced hikers with sturdy boots as there are some sketchy parts. And if you are unsure, you can always do the guided tour .
• Vereda da Ponta do Sao Lourenco (PR 8)  - this very east part of the island looks like another world. There are no trees, the rock formations you will see have incredible colours and the ocean and cliff views are nothing short of spectacular!

Mountain Biking

Seriously, who would voluntarily go and ride those crazy hills of Madeira? Haha, I wouldn't, but I know some of my friends would love that! Again, you can go with the epic team from Epic Madeira .

Jeep Safari

Explore secret and hidden places in the valleys and mountains with jeep tours . This way you will get the chance to also explore famous laurissilva forests , the evergreen and believed to be primary forests on Madeira. Definitely something you should see.

Catamaran Sunset Tours

Sunsets in Madeira are absolutely spectacular and to watch them from the boat will take your breath away!

What to eat and drink

Fish and seafood is very popular food of locals and tourist. Amongst the typical fish and seafoodd that you can try in Madeira is:

• Codfish (Bacalhau)
• Tuna fish (Atum)
• Black swordfish (Espada) - my personal favourite, it has a fery soft meat which taste is very close to lobster
• Octopus (Polvo)
• Limpets (Lapas)

Important note : Before ordering a fish in restaurant, please ask them whether is the fish from a fish farm of from the ocean. Recently, in Madeira they are dealing with an ecologic disaster that are fish farms. For one kilogram of fish from the farm is needed about 12 kg of fish from the ocean - crazy, huh? Plus fish from the farm is treated with antibiotics, so not only you eat something you really don't want to eat, but also all the antibiotics go into the ocean, causing fatal problem in the ecosystem

Espetada Madeirense is another favourite meal in Madeira. It's beef cubes on skewer grilled on wood or charcoal.

Honey cake  (bolo de mel de cana) is one of the main desserts and you will be able to buy it in almost any souvenir shop. It's not made from honey but dark sugar cane molasses with nuts and sultanas in it. It is very rich, and should last long months after it's baked. Well, we ate it in two days because it was so delicious!

Probably the most popular drink on the island is wine which is world famous. Beautiful vineyards are all around the island! Also it's very cheap, be ready to pay for a bottle of wine in the store 2 - 3 euros, yay!

The most traditional drink of Madeira is poncha  and unless you are a person who never touches the alcohol, you shouldn't leave Madeira without trying it. It's made from brandy cane sugar, bee honey and lemon juice. I am a baby drinker and can't even smell rum without instantly feeling like throwing out, but surprisingly I really enjoyed drinking poncha. But be careful, it's as strong as it is delicious :) They say that the best poncha is to be found in Taberna da Poncha in Serra de Água.

Useful resources whilst you are in Madeira

Accommodation - www.booking.com

Live webcams all around the island - www.netmadeira.com

Weather updates - www.vedur.is

Flight connections to Madeira (from Europe) - Airlines & Airports

Phone app for hiking in Madeira - WalkMe  (available for Android and iOS) 

Have a question? Feel free to ask in the comments below.

Wanna know what camera gear I use?

Thank you for reading and go ahead and  follow me on facebook  or instagram to explore the world with me as I publish pictures and stories along the way.

*Thank you Estalagem da Ponta do Sol , Casa do Miradouro , Epic Madeira and  Lobosonda for having us. As always the opinions are of my own.

**Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission if you make a booking using the link. It won't cost you a penny but it will help me to maintain this website and write more helpful articles in future. 

  ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Oh hello! Welcome to my page where we all are allowed to Dream Big and we all are encouraged to Wander Far. My name is Marti and  here you can read more about me . I am originally from Czech Republic and my story isn't different from stories of many other travellers - in 2011 I quit my well-paid job in film industry to travel the world which was always my dream. I visited 70+ countries and you can find me exploring deserted islands in South Pacific or diving with whale sharks in Philippines, prospecting for gold in New Zealand or building an igloo above the Polar Circle. Let's join me on my journey around the globe!

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What is the best month to go to Madeira?

(Photo: Hynek & Baru)

We could say that is between June and September because it is the summer peak, but the truth is that Madeira is a great destination to visit all year round! Madeira enjoys a very warm climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, with average temperatures ranging between 18 ºC and 25 ºC. Madeira has a warm climate and comfortable temperatures are in spring or autumn and you’ll have at least nine hours of beautiful sunshine to enjoy per day.

However, the choice lies with the personal goals or in the type of holiday you are looking for, of course. Let’s take a look at the various options:

The English summer

If you’re looking for winter sun you won’t have much trouble finding it in Madeira. In December, January, and February daytime temperatures can be 20°C in the lower parts of the island below what’s called the ‘banana line’.

January is the wettest and one of the coolest months in Madeira. Thanks to the mild subtropical climate, the average min temperature in Funchal is 13°C (55°F) while max reaches 19°C (66°F). 

What to do on Madeira in January and February?

• You can still see Christmas lights (until the first week of January)
• The ''Reis’’ party, in Funchal
•   Hike in the  Levadas
•   A boat ride or a Jeep Tour

•   Enjoy a mini-holiday, during Valentines day and watch the sunset in Pico do Arieiro
•   Watch the  Carnival parades

• Wine tasting
• Visit some cultural museums
• Take the Cable Car to Monte and Botanical Garden

• Take a walk through the Lido or Caniço Promenade
• Venture out in the Cable Car of Achadas da Cruz

The Eternal Spring

During March, April, and May, and especially towards the end of the season the sun already shines differently. March is a lovely time of year to visit Madeira. With winter now left behind, the temperatures improve and rain is less likely in this beautiful archipelago. The average daytime temperature rises to a bit over 16ºC with midday high peaks ranging 18ºC in cloudless days and nighttime lows rarely go below 14ºC.  

What to do on Madeira in March, April , and May?

• Flower Festival

• Whale watching
• Visit beautiful viewpoints
• Admire our beautiful gardens such as the Tropical and Palheiro Gardens
• Toboggan Ride

• Stroll through the City of Funchal
• Visit Nun's Valley
• Go to the SPA

• Explore the European Museum Night
• Also, you should visit the  Here-There Festival at Ponta do Sol

The summer peak of Madeira

June, July, August, and September, the most sought-after months right? These months you have the opportunity to enjoy some of Madeira’s exhilarating attractions with events and festivals practically every weekend all over the Island.

Temperatures start to increase, favouring trips to the beach and oceanside activities.

July is a very popular time to visit Madeira when the sun is almost in full force, the skies are blue and the temperatures are high.

What to do in June, July, August, and September in Madeira?

• In June there are some events such as mountain biking ( Trans Madeira ) and Canyoning ( Madeira Canyoning Meeting )
• Travel to a new-old Epoque and explore the Medieval Market in Machico
• Visit tropical gardens
• Relax in Porto Santo Beach

• Take part in the Madeira wine festival in August
• Watch the fireworks at the Atlantic Festival
• Go to the Cherry Festival in Camara de Lobos
• Fly through the sky with Paragliding
• Snorkel and Diving
• Music lover? In July we have The  Funchal Jazz  and the  Summer Opening
• Swim in the fantastic lava pools of Porto Moniz or Seixal
• In September do not forget the beautiful  Colombo’s Festival

The golden sun

The autumn months, October and November tend to be a lot quieter in Madeira, but it’s still pleasantly sunny. It is perfect for walking as there is plenty of shade around. Even though December  is the winter season in  Madeira , the temperatures are relatively mild with around six hours of  sunshine  each day. 

The comparatively sunny weather makes Madeira an appealing and popular destination for visitors to enjoy a Christmas holiday. Madeira has a slight average temperature drop from 18°C on December 1st to 17°C by December 31st.

What to do in October, November, and December in Madeira?

• October is perfect for birdwatching tours
• Also, there is the  Nature Festival  which allows for the enjoyment of several activities in the mountains, in the air or in the sea, all free-of-charge, throughout the week
• Travel through the scenic roads of Madeira on the way to exploring its Countryside
• Relish the beauty of the 4 natural reserves.
• During November, the sky has many shades of pink, which allows watching the most beautiful  sunrises

• Visit the Farmer's Market it's time for eating tons of fruit like guava, mango, and Annona
• In December go see the Christmas lights and the Christmas market
• Party on the Market Night
• Visit some churches to take pictures of the nativity scene
• Watch the famous New Years Fireworks in Funchal 

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When is the Best Time to Visit Madeira in 2024?

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In the fall of 2023, I was lucky enough to spend two months living in Lisbon and exploring the best that Portugal has to offer. Before I even took off for Europe, I knew that Madeira Island had already earned a place on my 2023 Portugal bucket list. Thankfully, September is arguably the best time to visit Madeira, so it seems our 5-day Madeira itinerary was meant to be!

I had fallen in love with Madeira through countless Instagram reels, blog posts, and a fair amount of TikToks texted to me by my travel buddy (since I refuse to re-download that dreaded app). As beautiful as the photos, videos, and guides were…they couldn’t prepare me for the real thing. 

Madeira was, in one word, breathtaking . 

Located about 1,100 km from the coast of Portugal and 500 km north of the Canary Islands, Madeira is known affectionately as “the Hawaii of Europe.” On one side, sky-high mountain peaks disappear into spooky fog, while on the other dolphins and whales swim through sparkling-blue waters. It was like nothing I’ve ever seen before. 

The town of Funchal is incredibly charming, with quaint little churches, tasty restaurants, and adorable souvenir shops on every corner. Whether you’re searching for culture, beaches, hiking, or views – you’ll find it in Madeira. 

If you’re ready to book that Madeira vacation, but you’re asking yourself, “When is the best time to visit Maderia?” – then you’re in the right place. Keep reading for my guide to visiting Madeira in the spring, summer, winter, and fall! 

Find what you need:

When is the Best Time to Visit Madeira for Great Weather?

Madeira experiences mild, sub-tropical weather throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Due to its location in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira enjoys a relatively stable climate with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. Long story short – Madeira is the perfect vacation spot pretty much year-round.

If you’re looking for warm and sunny weather, the best time to visit Madeira is from June to September. During these months, temperatures are at their highest and there is very little chance of rain. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as partaking in Madeira’s breathtaking hikes, scuba diving on the coral reefs, and exploring the island’s beautiful landscapes.

If you prefer a cooler climate and want to avoid the peak tourist season (BOO crowds 👎🏼), then March to May or October to November are the best time to visit Madeira. The weather is still pleasant, with temperatures in the low 20s (70°F) and there are fewer crowds. March to May is also a good time for nature lovers, as Madeira’s famous flowers are in full bloom.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, then winter (December to February) might be the best time to visit Madeira. While it may not be as warm, you can always bundle up for outdoor activities or try out some of Madeira’s indoor tourist attractions.

Keep in mind that Madeira can experience occasional rain showers throughout the year no matter when you visit. Thankfully, these are usually short-lived and only add to the island’s lush greenery. So no matter when you decide to visit, be sure to pack a travel umbrella or stowaway raincoat just in case.

The Best Time to Visit Madeira by Activity

While the weather in Madeira is generally mild and pleasant, some of Madeira’s most famous attractions are better enjoyed at certain times of year vs. others. Whether you’re interested in hiking, scuba diving, dolphin and whale watching, surfing, enjoying the blooming flowers, or all of the above – this is the best time to visit Madeira by activity.

The Best Time to Visit Madeira for Flowers 

The spring months of March, April, and May turn Madeira into a botanical paradise! Madeira experiences mild temperatures during this time and every tree, plant, and shrub on the island goes into full bloom.

In fact, from May 2nd to 26th, 2024, you can visit the Madeira Flower Festival and take in the colorful floral displays to your heart’s content.

The Best Time to Visit Madeira for Hiking

The best time to visit Madeira for hiking is during the spring and fall. Temperatures are still warm in Madeira during these seasons, but not as hot as the summer months. There is also a lower chance of rainfall in Madeira during the spring and fall than during the winter. These seasons are perfect for those looking to explore the island’s beautiful and diverse hiking trails. 

Experiencing the views from Madeira’s most famous hiking trail, Pico do Areeiro, is a must see in Madeira. I mean Lisbon has some great miradouros, like the Miradouro de Santa Luzia , but they’ve got nothing on Madeira. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen with you! (Although, if you have the time, Lisbon is worth visiting as well).

The Best Time to Visit Madeira for Scuba Diving

The best time to visit Madeira for scuba diving is June through November. These months offer the best visibility for scuba diving in Madeira’s crystal-clear waters. You’ll also be able to see a wider variety of marine life during this time and be able to enjoy warmer water temperatures this time of year.

On my scuba diving excursion in Madeira, we saw enormous groupers, trumpetfish, flounder, moray eels, daytime octopus, spider crabs, an eel garden, sea stars, lobster, and the biggest round stingray I’ve ever seen in my life! I highly recommend diving with Cipreia Dive Club for your scuba dives in Madeira. After our vacation in Lisbon and 3 days spent exploring Porto , it was great to reconnect with nature while hiking and scuba diving in Madeira.

The Best Time to Visit Madeira for Dolphin and Whale Watching

Dolphin and whale watching is one of the top things to do in Madeira! If seeing majestic whales in their natural habitat is on your bucket list, then plan to visit Madeira from May through June and September through November. It’s the peak season for whale watching and you’ll have a high chance of spotting various species, including sei whales, humpback whales, fin whales, Bryde’s whales, minke whales, and even orcas if you’re lucky! Pilot whales and sperm whales can be seen in Madeira throughout the year.

Dolphins are a very common sighting in the waters around Madeira year-round. Bottlenose dolphins are the most common, but you might also spot striped dolphins, common dolphins, pantropical dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins, or Risso’s dolphins.

On our very first day in Madeira, we booked seats on an eco-catamaran dolphin and whale-watching tour . I highly recommend booking this tour for your Madeira trip—the dolphins and whales popping out of the water is a sight I’ll never forget. You can also go dolphin and whale watching on a trip to Lagos in Portugal’s Algarve !

The Best Time to Visit Madeira for Surfing

While Madeira may not be known as a top surfing destination, it does have some great waves from October through April, especially in December and January. This time of year is when the North Atlantic swells hit Madeira and light up the point breaks on the island.

The Cheapest Time to Visit Madeira

The best time to visit Madeira for budget travelers is in winter or November to February. This is Madeira’s off-season, meaning prices are cheaper and there are fewer crowds. Keep in mind that visiting Madeira during the off-season means the weather might not be as pleasant as other months.

However, never forget that Madeira is nicknamed “The Land of Eternal Spring.” Basically, even when the weather isn’t great, it’s still pretty good. And babe, we love a good travel deal—especially in beautiful Portugal 👏🏼

When to Visit Madeira to Avoid the Crowds

The best time to visit Madeira if you want to avoid the crowds is the off-season from November through February. Prices are also cheaper during this time, so it’s a great option for budget travelers.

Winter is also a great time to visit Madeira for surfers!

Madeira Weather by Month

Not sure when the best time to visit Madeira is for you? No worries! Below, you can see a list of the best things to do in Madeira Portugal, and which months are best to do them in.

Visiting Madeira in January

• Madeira has great surfing this time of year
• Prices are cheaper in Madeira in January
• There are fewer crowds in Madeira in January
• If you visit for New Year’s Eve, you’ll be able to attend Madeira’s famous firework display in Marina do Funchal – one of the best things to see in Funchal Madeira

Visiting Madeira in February

• February is arguably the cheapest month to visit Madeira
• There won’t be many tourists or crowds on the island in February
• It’s a good month to surf in Madeira

Visiting Madeira in March

• Madeira’s flowers have begun to bloom in March
• The weather is beginning to warm up
• Tourism is still low, so there won’t be many crowds
• Prices are cheaper than the summer months
• March is the beginning of Madeira’s hiking season
• It’s still surfing season in Madeira

Visiting Madeira in April

• Madeira’s flowers are in full bloom
• This is a great month for hiking
• April is the end of the best time of year to surf in Madeira

Visiting Madeira in May

• Madeira’s Flower Festival spans almost the entire month of May
• The flowers are in full bloom
• May is a great month for hiking in Madeira
• This is the beginning of Madeira’s best whale-watching season

Visiting Madeira in June

• June is the beginning of Madeira’s best scuba diving season
• It’s officially on-season in Madeira
• Prices are higher in June
• Madeira is getting more crowded
• Depending on the year, June might have good hiking weather or it may be a bit too hot to hike
• It’s a great time to whale-watch in Madeira

Visiting Madeira in July

• Temperatures, prices, and crowds are high in Madeira
• Visibility and water temperatures are high – making it a great month to scuba dive
• The weather might be nice enough to hike in July if you’re lucky
• July is one of the best months for swimming and enjoying the beaches in Madeira

Visiting Madeira in August

• August is the hottest month in Madeira
• It’s a great time of the year to scuba dive
• Prices are higher in August
• Madeira tends to be crowded this time of year
• August is the best month to swim in Madeira since the water is at its warmest

Visiting Madeira in September

• I visited Madeira in September!
• September is a great time to scuba dive in Madeira
• It’s a great month for whale and dolphin watching
• Temperatures are ideal for hiking this time of year
• Prices and crowds are still high but are starting to decrease

Visiting Madeira in October

• October is a great time to hike the best mountains in Madeira
• It’s a great month to scuba dive
• Whale-watching season in Madeira is still at its peak in October
• Prices and crowds are decreasing
• Surfing season is starting up again

Visiting Madeira in November 

• November is the end of peak whale-watching season in Madeira
• It’s also the tail end of Madeira’s best scuba diving season
• It’s a great time to surf in Madeira
• Prices are cheaper and there are fewer crowds

Visiting Madeira in December

• The Funchal Market is in full swing for Christmas
• Madeira is decorated beautifully for the holiday season
• Temperatures are lower
• Some of the best surfing of the year is in December
• Hotels, resorts, and activities are cheaper and there are fewer crowds

The Best Things to Do in Madeira

There are so many exciting things to do and places to visit on this island. During our five days in Madeira, we did our best to see the best that the island had to offer…which was a lot . If you’re wondering what to do in Madeira Portugal, then keep reading for my top 10 things to do in Madeira!

• Book a whale and dolphin-watching boat tour
• Hike to Pico do Arieiro
• Take the cable car to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden
• Drive under the Cascata dos Anjos (waterfall) near Ponta do Sol
• Take a dip in the Porto Moniz Natural Pools
• Visit Fanal Forest for a spooky photoshoot in the fog
• Relax on the sandy beach in Praia do Porto do Seixal
• Sample the local Portuguese cuisine in Madeira
• Go scuba diving
• Explore Funchal, Madeira’s capital city

The Best Time to Visit Madeira Island Portugal: Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the best time to visit Madeira for great weather depends on your personal preferences and which activities you want to do during your trip! Whether it’s soaking up the winter sun on the beach, scuba diving the coral reefs, or getting lost in the fog in Fanal Forest, Madeira has something to offer year-round for every type of traveler.

Best Time to Visit Madeira Portugal FAQs:

The best month to visit Madeira depends on your preferred activities and interests. However, generally, the months of April, May, September, and October are considered the best time to visit due to pleasant weather conditions and fewer crowds.

The rainiest months in Madeira are usually November through January. However, rainfall can occur at any time of year due to the island’s location in the Atlantic Ocean.

The best time to go to Madeira ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities. If you are interested in hiking or flower viewing, the spring months of April and May would be ideal. For water activities like scuba diving, the summer months of July and August offer warm temperatures for underwater exploration. To avoid the high tourist season, consider visiting in September or October when the weather is still pleasant but with fewer crowds. Overall, Madeira has something to offer year-round, so it ultimately depends on your interests and schedule.

Maderia is a wonderful place to visit during Christmas. The island is beautifully decorated with festive lights and decorations, and there are plenty of events and activities to enjoy. The mild winter weather makes it perfect for exploring the island’s many hiking trails or taking a leisurely stroll through the charming towns and villages. Plus, there are plenty of exciting Christmas traditions to explore in Madeira, such as the famous Funchal Market. Whether you’re looking for a warm and festive holiday or simply want to escape the cold winter weather, Madeira during Christmas is a great choice. Did you know that Madeira hosts one of the world’s most famous firework displays for New Year’s Eve? On December 31, tourists, locals, and cruise ships gather in Marina do Funchal to experience the dazzling firework displays and ring in the New Year in style.

The hottest month in Madeira is typically August, with average temperatures reaching around 26°C (79°F). However, the island’s mild climate means that even during the peak summer months, temperatures rarely exceed 30°C (86°F). This makes Madeira a great destination for those who enjoy warm weather but prefer to avoid extreme heat. Even in the winter months, temperatures in Madeira remain mild and pleasant, making it a popular year-round European destination for travelers. So whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the beach or explore the island’s natural beauty, there is no bad time to visit Madeira.

Due to the extreme height differences and varying microclimates all over the island, it’s very difficult for the best Portuguese travel apps to accurately predict the weather in Madeira. That being said, according to locals, the most accurate weather apps for Madeira are Windy and MadeiraWeather . These apps provide the most reliable weather forecasts, including temperature, humidity, wind speed, and rainfall predictions. It’s important to note that the accuracy significantly decreases when you’re searching weather patterns more than 2-3 days in the future. Pro Tip: Be sure to check the weather before attempting the Pico do Areeiro hike. We didn’t, and our five hours of hard work were rewarded with views of the inside of a cloud.

October is a great time to visit Madeira, especially if you want to scuba dive, hike, or surf Madeira’s beautiful landscape. Temperatures are still pleasant in Madeira in October and both crowds and prices are decreasing at this time of year.

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Madison Krigbaum is the founder and sole contributor of Madison's Footsteps – a solo female travel blog started in 2017 with a focus on destinations in Honduras, Italy, and Thailand. Since her study abroad semester in Rome, Madison has traveled to 31 countries, many of which she visited as a solo traveler. She lived in Roatan, Honduras for one year, Thailand for three months, and spent over two years in Italy (in Florence and Rome). She just returned from three months in Lisbon, Portugal and is considering heading back to Central America next!

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Best time to visit madeira.

When is the best time to visit Madeira? Read on to learn exactly when to visit for an unforgettable trip..

A Portuguese island, politically part of Europe, Madeira is actually situated off the west coast of Northern Africa and therefore has a climate that much more closely resembles this subtropical part of the world.

Through into this mix however, the volcanic landscape of Madeira, the fact it sits in the Atlantic Ocean and the largely elevated nature of its topography (read. it’s pretty freaking mountainous!) and you’ve got yourself a veritable climate feast.

Which is exactly why it can be pretty confusing to work out when the best time to visit Madeira is.

But fear not, I’ve got the full breakdown on exactly when you should travel to this island, no matter whether you want to sightsee, sunbathe, head out hiking or a combination of all 3.

So let’s keep this intro short and get stuck straight into the details…

Related Posts

• 5 Epic Madeira Hikes You Can’t Miss
• Top 10 Things to Do in Funchal, Madeira
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My stay at Quinta da Saraiva was kindly gifted but, as always, all views are my own.

 This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

When to Visit Madeira?

So weirdly I’m starting this article off with a kinda conclusion, because the first slice of info I’m bringing you is the best time to visit Madeira overall.

This means no matter what you’re heading to Madeira to enjoy (chilling, hiking, sailing, eating, drinking, sightseeing… the list goes on and on), I’m kicking things off here with the best overall months to book a trip to this gorgeous island.

And, in my opinion, those top months are May and September.

Part of the Spring and Autumn seasons respectively, the reason I’ve chosen these 2 months is because they offer the best overall experience – the happy middle ground as it were.

Technically part of the shoulder season, May and September avoid both the heavy rainfall Madeira experiences in winter and the hot temperatures and high humidity the island often gets in summer.

Offering mild climates, with long days that boast good sunshine hours, both May and September give visitors the chance to not only enjoy the mountain trails of this dramatic island, but also the chance to swim in the sea, head out on whale-watching tours, sightsee in Funchal and enjoy a good flower or wine festival too!

In addition, prices are not at their peak, and you’re sure to find a bargain both in terms of a flight to the island and accommodation.

And neither are crowds too heavy, which means you won’t have to share the hiking trails and viewpoints with too many other tourists!

Sounds ideal right?

And that’s because these months pretty much are in my opinion – a notion backed by the fact that I specifically chose to visit Madeira in May myself!

Madeira Climate

Ok, so now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, it’s time to go into a lot more detail because, despite how much of a no-brainer I’ve made May and September sound when it comes to the best time to visit Madeira, there are a few variables!

And the main one of these is the mountainous geography of the island and the fact that it can be brilliantly sunny, hot and dry on one side, while just half an hour away, on the other side of Madeira, it’s not unusual to simultaneously experience clouds, mist, wind, humidity and even rain!

Yes welcome to the conundrum that is working out the best time to travel to this island!

Because it’s a small island territory, situated in the subtropics and with a pretty mountainous terrain that begins to climb almost straight from the coastline, Madeira is not always as sunny and dry as you might hope.

A short boat trip off the island will quickly show you how passing clouds often get stuck on the mountains here and can bring misty and wet conditions, even if it’s sunny at the coast!

Even if it is sunny when you start to head up the mountains, you can quickly find the conditions change when you reach the top, as clouds have rolled in seemingly from nowhere!

But conversely, the opposite is also true!

Many a time, I was driving through clouds on my way up to begin an elevated hike in Madeira, only to reach the top and find the clouds had disappeared – or I’d ascended above them – and was met, instead, with glorious blue sky conditions – hoorah!

In essence, the Madeiran climate is very changeable.

And this is exactly why, when you travel to this island, you really need to be prepared with lots of layers and for all eventualities, no matter what time of year!

The other point to note is that often the north of the island – the “otherside” of the mountain range as it were – does tend to be wetter and cloudier and sometimes you’ll drive from there to Funchal (or elsewhere on the southern coast) and be surprised to find a totally different type of weather.

Is this because you’ve changed location? Or because the clouds have blown across? Who can tell!

All I know is that it happened to me multiple times!

So the moral of the tale is being prepared with everything you could possibly need (including a sun hat, a waterproof jacket, a bikini and a jumper) whenever you head out the door for a day in Madeira!

And, and because it’s an island and a mountainous one at that, it can also get windy out of nowhere too (especially in exposed areas), so I just wanted to prepare you for that too!

Madeira Seasons

To put things in context, Madeira has 4 main seasons – which are broadly aligned with the main European ones…

March – May is known as Spring with mild temperatures that hover around the high teens  / low twenties (centigrade that is!). Rainfall begins to drop and the days are getting nice and long – think around 9 hours of daylight. The island is lush and green.

June – August is summer in Madeira when temperatures can soar to the thirties and the humidity skyrockets. Rainfall is low and sunny days are common.

September – November is essentially an autumn season when the temperatures begin to cool down as rainfall increases. Days shorten, but there’s still plenty of sun that will allow you to get out and about.

December – February is winter in Madeira. As a subtropical island, even the coldest months on this island are mild and rarely drop below 15 in the day, which makes taking a dip in the sea still possible for the brave among you! However, rainfall is significant in the winter and cloudy wet days tend to predominate over sunny ones.

Visiting Madeira is certainly possible all year round – you’ll never be freezing cold or without any sunshine, but as I said in the first section of this post, spring and autumn would be my picks when it comes to the best seasons to visit Madeira.

Best Time to Visit for Sightseeing

So now we move on to some more of the specific activities travellers head to Madeira for, as we take a look at which visiting months best suit these.

Sightseeing can be enjoyed across Madeira (from the traditional houses of Santana in the northeast, through to the lighthouse at Ponta do Pargo in the southwest) which, as discussed previously, can make things difficult given how changeable the climate is from one part of the island to the other!

However, I’d say the most visitors heading to Madeira for sightseeing base themselves in Funchal – the capital – which is the southeast of the island, as this city has the most sightseeing on offer and is easiest to get around the island from.

Funchal and its surrounds tend to have a drier and sunnier climate than other areas of Madeira, especially the mountains, which means visiting in early spring or late autumn is totally possible.

In fact, April and October would be great months for sightseeing in Madeira as temperatures are lower, as is rainfall, and crowds are thinner too!

Best Time to Visit for Hiking

If you’re heading to Madeira for hiking, then great choice, because this island is a walker’s paradise!

And that’s even given the fact you have to prepare for at least 4 seasons in one day if you’re heading out walking, especially in the mountains!

Look, the reality is that clouds, wind and rain are possible at any time of year up in the lofty heights of Madeira, although less so in the summer.

That said, you do have to contend with some pretty crazy temperatures at the time of year, which is why I wouldn’t pick summer as the best time for hiking in Madeira – don’t forget not all your walks will be at elevation and it will be roasting down on the coast between June and August.

And in winter, the high chances of rain would certainly make hiking less fun in my book, which is again why I’m selecting spring and autumn as the best seasons if you want to enjoy the best walking this island has to offer.

The later spring months of April and May are ideal – mild temperatures and lower rainfall, with long days and a good chance of blue skies – as are the autumn months of September and October.

Trails might be slightly busier at these times, but it’s worth it for the good conditions in my opinion.

Just make sure to research when the island marathons are on, especially the Island Ultra Trail event – they tend to fall during these months, but are best avoided unless you are actually taking part!

Best Time to Visit for the Beach

Ok, so now we come to the good stuff, the things holidays are really made for right?

Yes the beach, the sea swimming and the sunbathing are what I’m all about!

Seriously, I do love a good coastal chill when I’m on holiday and despite doing both a lot of sightseeing and hiking in Madeira, I made sure I got to swim in the sea and lie on the sand too.

And that’s despite Madeira not really being an island for the beach – most are black sandy or rocky!

However, if you’re here predominantly to catch the rays, then summer will definitely be the best time for you to visit Madeira.

Hight temperatures, low rainfall, long blue sky days – it’s got it all!

Best Time to Visit for Wine

Or maybe it’s the wine you’re really going to Madeira for?

Well again, you’re in luck, because this island has plenty of the stuff and you’ll spot vineyards (be they commercial farms or in somebody’s backyard) right across the island.

To take in the full experience though I highly suggest visiting during the island’s wine festival which runs annually from late August through early September.

This is when the harvesting takes place and there’s several great wine tours on the island you can enjoy that will really allow you to savour this element of Madeira’s unique culture even more.

Check out my top picks here…

• From Funchal: Madeira Open Roof 4×4 Tour with Wine Tasting
• Funchal: Food and Wine Walking Tour
• From Funchal: Full-Day Madeira Wine Tour with Lunch

Cheapest Time to Visit Madeira

Avoiding high summer and Christmas are the main tips when it comes to finding the best time to visit Madeira for a bargain!

And that’s because many locals return to the island during this season and things can get rather busy.

The winter months – outside of the festive season – are certainly the cheapest to visit Madeira, but you have to balance this with the high rainfall.

Overall, therefore, I personally lean towards early Spring and late Autumn being the best times if you want to balance decent weather with a good deal!

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How to Get to Madeira?

Fly to the Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport!

Find the best deals at Skyscanner , including with budget airline carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet.

How Long to Spend There?

I’d suggest at least a week to see a lot of Madeira and enjoy many things on this list.

10 days would be even better!

Where to Stay in Madeira?

Just up the hill behind the bobbing fishing boats of Câmara de Lobos on Madeira’s southern coast is the amazing heritage boutique hotel of Quinta da Saraiva.

Set amidst banana plantations and vineyards, with stunning coastal and countryside views from the gorgeous pool, this is seriously the best place to stay on the island with balcony views to die for, friendly staff, amazing breakfasts and a jacuzzi to enjoy at night under the stars!

Oh and they have free charging for your electric vehicle too… it just gets better!

Owner, Juan, has renovated this beautiful family property to offer visitors to Madeira a truly special stay and, with my exclusive code BigWorldSmallPockets , you can receive a €50 discount on a 4 night stay.

So go on, what are you waiting for?

Book your amazing stay in Madeira here – you won’t get a better price or experience!

How to Get Around Madeira?

Hiring a car is the best way to get around Madeira and you can find a great deal here .

I highly recommend an electric vehicle – great for the planet, great for your pocket!

Travel Insurance for Madeira

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

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So there you have it, my complete guide to the best time to visit Madeira!

I hope it’s helped you decide when you visit this beautiful island.

Have any more advice to share?

Then please help fellow travellers out by dropping all your Madeira tips into the comments section below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Madeira weather and when to visit

Madeira is often referred to as “the island with the eternal spring”, and this is the best way to describe the varied weather of the island.

The island sits in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream, nullifying any extreme seasonal temperatures, while the prevailing winds and high mountains ensure rain falls throughout the year. Considering that Madeira is on the same latitude as Morocco, the weather is much less intensely hot during the summer, reaching a pleasant average of 26C in August.

There are two distinct seasons to Madeira: a slightly cooler and wetter winter (October to April) and a drier and warmer summer (May to September), but the location on the island has just as much an effect on the weather as the time of year.

The majority of the rain falls on the interior mountains or the rugged northern coastline, while the east and south (including the main city of Funchal) are significantly drier. The eastern side, close to the airport, maybe drier but is often exposed to strong winds.

Just by simply crossing the island you can leave hot sun in Ribeira Brava, pass through cold mountain fog at Serra De Agua, and get drenched by an intense rainstorm at Sao Vicente. This variable weather causes locals to joke “that you can experience all four seasons just by moving round the island”.

In summary, Madeira has great weather during the summer (except for June!) and winter months that may be cloudy and wet, but will be much more pleasant than mainland Europe. Related articles: Introduction to Madeira – Madeira top 10 - 1 week in Madeira

A quick summary of when to visit Madeira

January to March - (Low season) – An equal number of grey days as bright sunny days, but there is always the chance of heavy rains especially over the mountains

4 weeks after Easter – The Flower Festival, the whole of Funchal is adorned with flowers and the island is full of colour (a great season to visit)

June – Dry and warm, but the island can be covered by solid clouds for days, often referred to as “June gloom”.

July-September (High season) – Warm, dry weather and is the best season to visit

October-December (Medium season) - There is an increase of cloud and chance of rain but there can be bright and warm spells. This is a popular season for travellers getting away from the dismal weather of Europe.

Note for June: The typical weather for June is for dense cloud, but it varies yearly. If you come expecting full sun and sunbathing weather (as with the rest of Portugal), you will be disappointed, but if you come for a sightseeing holiday, you will have a great time.

Note: These weather charts are the average weather for Funchal, where the majority of tourists are based during their holiday. The north and west coastline will always be slightly wetter and cooler.

Average weather charts for Madeira

When is the best time of year to visit madeira.

The best time of year to visit Madeira is between July and September, when the weather is at its warmest and driest.

This weather is warm but not incredibly hot as with much of southern Europe, reaching a maximum of 26C in August (as compared to 31C for Rome or 32C for Madrid). As this is the peak season the island will be busy with tourists and accommodation and flights will be at their most expensive.

Our favourite time to visit Madeira is during the Flower Festival, which lasts for the four weeks after Easter. The culmination of the festival is the carnival (check local listings for exact dates).

Madeira in the winter

Madeira is not a winter sun destination, as with the Canary Islands or Egypt, but it will be significantly better than back in your home country. The closer to December, the higher the chance of rain showers and overcast days, but the average temperature will be pleasantly warm.

To get the most from a holiday in the winter season, it is best to have flexible plans. When the weather is dry and sunny, take day trips to explore the island, or if the weather is poor, relax at your hotel, have long meals and drink some Poncha!

Our most popular guides for Madeira

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What is the best time of year to visit Madeira and average weather

What are the top 10 activities and sights of Madeira?

Itineraries and tours for a 1-week holiday to Madeira

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Where is the best sandy beach on Madeira?

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Take a day trip to the island of Porto Santo

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The best guide to Madeira

Best Time to Visit Madeira - Guide for Levadas and Waterfalls

When Is the Best Time

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Madeira is a hiker's paradise where you can climb mountains, the Levadas, and waterfalls. Its unique landscape, with dramatic cliffs and mountainous topography, is breathtaking. Already the arrival at the main airport in Funchal is an experience because of the extreme wind gusts. Pilots need additional training before they are allowed to land on this island in the Atlantic Ocean. 

Madeira is the most beautiful and fascinating place in Europe. IMO one of the 10 MUST-SEE places in the world. This island can even compete with Kauai, Hawaii. The north is lush green, the south sunny and dry, and the heart is mountainous. The sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking, all different. You never get bored here. The sea is crystal blue and clear. The residents are lovely and attentive, and life is affordable in Madeira. On our second visit, we spent more than a month on this exceptional island, and even this was not enough. 

Madeira is a popular holiday destination, with an estimated 1.5 million visitors annually. The driest season is the busiest season, from May to September. Read my seven guides and get every question answered for Madeira. Find the best Instagram Spots below, Levada and Waterfall Hikes below, Beaches, and Natural Pools , Pico do Arieiro hike , Ponta de Sao Lourenco , Food Guide and 5 Things to Do in Funchal . A Table of Contents  is added below to help you find what you are looking for easily.

I took all the pictures of this Madeira Guide. If you wish to use any, please contact me, but I will take action against picture theft.

Madeira Climate North and South

Madeira is situated north of the Canary Islands. It is always a few degrees colder here. The climate is similar; the north experiences more clouds, mist, and rain than the south because of the primarily existing northeasterly winds. These winds cause a high swell in the north, the reason for natural and human-made pools. However, the north is rich in lush vegetation, old grown trees on steep hills which were not burnt down by the first settlers. We love the dramatic wild coast of the north with its sheer cliffs; it reminds me of Kauai, a Hawaiian Island. The south is drier and even more pleasant in the winter.

It is a pleasantly mild climate throughout the year, close to the coast, and it rarely gets hot here. During winter, snow occurs on the highest mountains like Pico Ruivo, the highest mountain, and Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest, with more than 1800m elevations. Overall, Madeira experiences a microclimate almost everywhere. Our house was at 600m elevation, therefore cooler than at sea level in Calheta. 

It is a little colder in higher elevations, sometimes cloudier; even the wind is different compared to the coast. I read in several guides that Funchal is the driest place on this island because of the high mountain range. I can't entirely agree. After two long-term stays in Madeira, I can definitely say the sunniest area lies southwest of Ribeira Brava to Paul do Mar. Nevertheless, Madeira is rich in water; therefore, always bring a rain jacket or an umbrella to explore the inland.

Best Time to Visit Madeira

The best time  to visit Madeira regarding crowds, weather, and accommodation prices are spring and fall, from March to June and September to November. Sea temperatures are fine from May until at least November if you wish to swim and sunbathe. However in April 2023 the sea alteady had a temperature of 20°C. Winter is the quietest time, often dry along the south coast and rainier inland.

Madeira Swimming - Sea Temperature

The sea is a bit colder for swimming in spring and end of winter, around 18°C, pleasant in summer and autumn, ranging between 22°C and 25°C. So bring your goggles for snorkelling the sea is full of big and colourful fish.

Madeira Weather and Crowds

Spring (march-may).

There are slight differences in the temperature in spring ranging from 16-21°C during the day. April is one of the wettest months, but it rarely rains for days. It also depends on the area you are in. March and April are less busy except Eastern. The sea temperature in March and April is between 18-19°C and reaches 20°C in May. The entire island is in bloom in the mountains until June. The yellow gorse and the “Proud of Madeira” are beautiful on the slopes. 

Summer (June-September)

Summer is the peak season, especially in July and August, like elsewhere, due to the school holidays. Temperatures range from 22-27°C throughout the summer and can top 30°C with easterly winds along the south coast. 2021 was one of the warmest summers ever, with temps above 30°C in August and September. 

These winds transport the heat and sand from the Sahara. This Sahara sand causes such spectacular sunsets, as you can see above. Usually, it is dry, but rain can still occur in the mountains. However, the weather is unpredictable; we experienced rain showers and rainbows in mid-June. First rain showers occur mid to end of September. The sea is pleasant, on average around 23°C, but I assume this summer 2023 it'll be warmer.

Autumn (October-November) 

Autumn is much warmer than spring. Day temps range from 19-24°C. Increasing rainfall, especially in November. However, it rarely rains for days, and it is more likely for half a day or a quick shower. The sea temperature is still around 20°C. Autumn is less busy; popular hikes are a bit quieter now.

Winter (December-February)

Temperatures remain pleasant, ranging on average between 16-20°C. The weather is a little more unpredictable, with a higher chance of rain. In our favourite tavern, I got told that the winter can be as lovely as the summer but quieter. Sea temps drop below 20°C—fewer sunshine hours in the winter, roughly from 8 am to 6 pm. The winter is quite popular for visitors from the colder parts of Europe to enjoy the pleasant “eternal spring”.

Where to Stay? My Top Recommendations

The Calheta Beach Resort is excellently located in front of the beach and sea, and within walking distance is a small supermarket Pingo Doce. It is shallow water here and, in combination with the sand beach excellent for children. Swimming is best at high tide, and snorkelling is amazing. Due to the breakwater, the bay and beach are well protected from powerful waves and currents. It is one of the very few sandy beaches in Madeira.

Ponta do Sol

This town is located in the south, and it is one of the sunniest places in Madeira. There is an interesting historic town centre, lovely restaurants, and one of our favourite spots for swimming. The protected bay is well laid out.

There are lots of highly-rated hotels in Ponta do Sol. These  hotels (by Stay22 and booking.com)  are opposite the awesome sunny bay.

Thanks for booking via my website. With your support, I am able to provide all my guides for free.

Whale and Dolphin Watching Madeira

Madeira is an excellent spot for whale and dolphin watching, and it is almost guaranteed to spot cetaceans on these tours. Usually, you always spot at least one dolphin species and whale with a bit of luck.

The best time to see whales and dolphins around Madeira is from September to January when whales migrate. However, these trips are fantastic throughout the year.

The resident cetaceans, the sperm whale, different dolphin species, and pilot whales are the most common to see. Actually, pilot whales belong to the dolphin family. 

Pilot Whales

Pilot whales are the second biggest dolphin species after the orca whales. They are very social and live in huge pods. One pilot whale, usually a female matriarch, leads the pod swimming in front, and the others follow her. They are 4-8 m long and beautiful to watch. They are nocturnal, diving up to 800 m deep for their preferred prey squid and resting on the surface during the day. The reason pilot whales are frequently spotted.

Bottlenose Dolphins

These dolphins occur close to the coast. As the pilot whales, only half of the brain and one eye is resting while the other part is awake and active to continue breathing. These dolphins have a length of 2-4 m. They live up to 50 years in the wild, while captured dolphins don't live that long.

Sperm Whales

These whales are most common to spot; all other whale species are rare. There is a resident population in Madeira and also around the Azores. Sperm whales are the most giant-toothed whales with the largest brain. They are easy to spot due to their high blow at the sea's surface.

They just come up for breathing roughly for eight minutes before diving again up to 3000 m deep. They have a long lifespan of up to 80 years. Males are much bigger, up to 20 m and females 12 m. 

Best Months to Visit

Related Topics

Location and Tips

Madeira is a volcanic island, the top of a shield volcano located northwest of Africa. It is an autonomous region of Portugal. It takes 1.5  hours to get from Lisbon on a direct flight to the Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC) in Funchal, Madeira. 

It was difficult to inhabit and cultivate the island in former times, and you know why after your arrival on this blooming, beautiful, green island. The sheer cliffs made a landing by boat almost impossible. The reason Porto Santo, the little sister island, was inhabited first. Madeira translated means wood, timber which grows here in abundance, especially laurel forests and eucalyptus. However, the entire island was once covered with forests, especially laurel. The first settlers burnt down a huge part in lower elevations. The island is steep up and down, almost not flat. It is fertile soil, the reason for excellent food and wine. 

The infrastructure, especially the tunnel constructions, are amazing. On my first visit to this island, getting from Funchal to the south or west took much more time. Nowadays you can always drive straight forward through many tunnels reaching all places between half an hour and an hour. In the picture above are the old R101, and in the back, the new road with kilometres of long tunnels. 

I never saw this sign before. During good weather conditions, it allows driving 10 km/h faster than the existing speed limit. 

Most fascinating are the “Levadas”, an irrigation system spread across the entire island with more than 800km. The water runs in a gentle flow with a slight incline from the mountains and sources down to the residents. According to UNESCO, this system was introduced by the first settlers in the first quarter of the 15th century.

With the Levada system, the farmers could cultivate the land, which is terraced until today. In former times Madeira became the capital for sugar cane in Europe. Sugar cane plantations still exist, and sugar influences the culture of Madeira. It is used for the national drink “Poncha”.

Madeira is most famous for the many walks along these so-called “Levadas”. Most of these trails are on higher elevations leading through lush forests rather a jungle. 

Due to the high elevation and the proximity to the mountains, it frequently rains. I added five of my favourite “Levada Hikes” and the location in this article. Our wonderful house here in Madeira was our home from home, which we still miss.

5 Fantastic Levada Hikes and Waterfalls

The vegetation along the Levadas on higher elevations in the National Park of Madeira are remnant laurel forests or laurisilva. These forests have a huge impact on the entire ecosystem. Most of the laurel in Madeira is primary forest, and 20 % of Madeira are covered with this 20 million years old subtropical rainforest which is the largest concentration worldwide, the reason for its protection by UNESCO. There are different types of laurel trees. You can find such forests only in Madeira, the Azores, and the Canary Islands.

1 Levada das 25 Fontes PR6 & Levada do Risco PR6.1

Return hike 10km – 4h included lunch break – roughly 500m altitude difference. 

This is the most popular hike on Madeira, located in the Paul da Serra. I agree these two water channel hikes are breathtaking. Start early latest at 9.30, to enjoy the trail, especially the 25 sources in the end and the spectacular scenery for yourselves or with very few people. 

I arrived shortly after 9 am. My car was the fifth in the parking area. When I returned, roughly one hundred cars, busses, taxis, and shuttles were standing there. 

The beginning of the trail is a bit boring; a paved road is leading down to Casa Rabacal for roughly 25 minutes. Here starts the real trailhead. Both Levada tracks are well-marked with signs. The lichens at the trees are evidence of the occurring mist, clouds, and rain. 

The waterfall at the end of Levada do Risco is just another 1.2 km hike one way. In former times the Levada trail continued leading behind the waterfall. You can see the former path to the left. Nowadays, the trail is closed with a grid. This Levada path is wide and easy to walk, even with a buggy.

The descent continues on steps to the 25 sources. It takes 2.5 km to get to the stunning highlight. The trail narrows, lots of sources and streams are leading into this Levada. It is a mystic atmosphere walking through the thick forest. 

When you reach the end of this track, you see an incredible pool and dripping water from everywhere. None of my pictures can show the real magic and beauty of this place.   

Overall it is a moderate hike with several staircases. Also, children can walk this trail, and they will love all the water everywhere on this track. For people with health issues or a lower fitness level, there is a shuttle offered from the parking down to Casa Rabacal, the trailhead of the Levadas. Return price 3€ and one shuttle service  2€. This means one hour less walking. Parking for Levada 25 Fontes and Risco Google Maps Link

2 Levada dos Cedros PR 14

One way 7 km – 2h – 250m altitude difference 

It is a breathtaking Levada trail leading through fascinating nature, lush forest with trees full of lichens. Lichens are the first sign of a high amount of mist and rain. We started the trail at the highest point on 1.090 m elevation. First, the trail leads down for more than a kilometre, mostly on steps. When we reached the Levada, a waterfall to the left in the distance got my attention.

Of course, I wanted a closer look and started climbing over wet and slippery rocks. My left foot with hiking boot ended up in the water. This was the beginning of an exceptional wet day. From now on, the Levada makes a slight incline only, and the trail is easy to walk. However, some parts are exposed, nothing for people with vertigo. After half of the trail, it started raining and later pouring. I can’t remember; I was that much soaked from the rain in my entire life before. Nevertheless, we enjoyed this fantastic hike and the spectacular nature.

Parking on higher elevation: Fanal ( Google Maps Link ) Parking on lower elevation: Curral Falso ( Google Maps Link ) You like to experience at least one fantastic Levada, but you can't manage the longer return hikes? An alternative is to organize a taxi shuttle, park your car at the end of the Levada and take a taxi to the beginning.

One of the safety fences was damaged at an exposed part of the trail. However, we saw several hikers on this Levada trail.

3 Levada do Caldeirao Verde PR 9 + Caldeirao do Inferno

Return hike to Caldeirao waterfall 13 km plus Inferno 17.5 km - 3.5-4h/5-6h - 4+7tunnels torch essential!

I highly recommend this Levada Hike, and the Caldeirao do Inferno, especially when staying in the north. It took me 1.20 hours from Arco do Calheta to get here. This is definitely a wet day hike with 11 tunnels, plenty of waterfalls, spectacular views, a real adventure. It starts in the Queimadas Forst Park, which is already worth visiting with its ancient huge trees. 

Read my entire trail description of the most beautiful Levada and Waterfall Hike  in Madeira.

4 Levada do Rei PR 18

Return Hike 10.5 km - 3 h - no elevation gain

This is an easy hike through the gorgeous lush forest. The entire trail offers beautiful wild scenery with fern rees at the beginning. The walk is almost flat, just some steps to reach the Levada suitable for families with children.

The dense vegetation provides lots of shade and spectacular views of the tree-covered hills. Laurel trees grow next to the Levada. The scent of laurel and eucalyptus is in the air. 

Some parts of the Levada are exposed therefore equipped with safety fences. It is a small track, but luckily remote located, not overrun even during Sundays. The trail is wet and muddy in sections. In December 2020 rain caused landslides and destruction. However, the Levada is accessible again. 

After roughly three kilometres, there is a little overgrown trail to the right, some 200 m long This not marked and maintained track requires climbing to get to the hidden waterfall. 

This short detour is great fun but a bit challenging. You definitely get dirty during the climb. Soon after reaching the Levada again, a short tunnel appears. A torch is not needed.

Shortly before you reach the endpoint Ribeiro Bonito you come across this waterfall. A rain jacket or umbrella and waterproof shoes are essential to pass this stunning part of the track. Overall a fantastic Levada hike in fascinating nature, which you share with few other people even during weekends. Levada do Rei parking Google Maps

5 Levada do Moinho to Levada Nova PR 7

Circular Trail - 9 km - 2.5 h - 230m altitude difference - tunnel 205m 

This is more a beginner tour very easy to walk. It took us just 2 hours in the evening. If you have plenty of time available or the forecast for the island of Madeira is rainy, this circular trail is an alternative located in the drier south between Ponta do Sol and Ribeira Brava.  

We combined these two Levadas, but we liked the landscape of Levada Nova on higher elevation much more. We chose Levada Moinho in Lombada for our start. It is a flat, mostly open track with a little shade only, for almost one hour. Shortly before the staircase, the trail changes to more wilderness. 

The steep steps to the right lead up to Levada Nova. This Levada part is a little wetter and more spectacular. The circular Levada trail leads through thick laurel forest, especially on the way back.

The laurel cent accompanies you on this hike. Despite the poor weather forecast for Madeira, we had pleasant weather. Some parts are fenced for safety reasons like here, but some aren't.

As on most of the Levada trails, you have to deal with exposed and narrow parts. Shortly after the curve, we already reached Lombada village on a higher elevation. Attached is a map from the circular trail at the end of my article. There isn't any hiking map or information board provided at the trailheads.

Levadas for Farmers

All houses and gardens are connected to the Levada channel next to each house. I loved the sound of the thundering water on our steep street along our rental house. One of the neighbours explained they all grow their own veggies and potatoes.

He was so kindly brought us salad, veggies, potatoes, and eggs from his garden. What they do not need gets sold on the farmers market in Prazeres and elsewhere on weekends. Opposite our house was an apple tree plantation. The farmer explained their watering technique in detail.

The local community takes care of each Levada. Twice a month, the retired farmer waters his plantation; the annual fee is 20€, which is a fair price he mentioned.

6 Waterfalls

Madeira is not a dry island like Gran Canaria. Water is everywhere, so it is not surprising to find many waterfalls on the island. Some of these waterfalls exist in the wetter season between October to May only. Of course, there are more than these six waterfalls. All my described Levada hikes offer breathtaking views of beautiful waterfalls either during the hike or they are the highlight at the end of the trail. 

1 Vereda do Pesqueiro

When exploring the island by car, try to stop at the viewpoints; “Miradouro”. Usually, you get a spectacular view. Our first outlook was the “Miradouro do Fio” close to the lighthouse at Ponta do Pargo in the west of Madeira. The view from here to the sheer cliffs is breathtaking.

We saw a waterfall in the distance, and after a delicious lunch at the restaurant next to the “miradouro”, I hiked down to the bottom. This hike is not busy, also not during weekends. The waterfall occurs in the wetter season, just now in spring. The track to the beach and the bottom of the waterfall is called “Vereda do Pesqueiro”. 

The return trail is roughly 4 km long.  It took me 1.15h down and just 45 minutes up. Shortly before I reached the beach, I became wet from the spray. Water is dropping down the entire cliff. 

If you prefer circular trails, you can start nearby the outlook Miradouro do Fio to get down to the beach and waterfall. When you reach the beach, walk to the east (left). Shortly before the waterfall, the trail led up. This trail is exposed and not suitable for people with vertigo in some sections. We always use Locus Map Pro for hiking. More about this mapping app in my tips and gear section .

There are caves at the beach, and it seems some guys are living in this secluded place.

Google Maps Trailhead link

2 Garganta Funda

This waterfall is just a 5 minutes drive north of Miradouro do Fio or Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse in the western part. The parking can be found easily with signs indicating how to get there. The car park is a small maximum space for three cars. From here, it is a nice short walk, less than 10 minutes, to the outlook.

3 Anjos Ponta do Sol 

This is a famous Instagram spot and car wash for the locals on the old R101 in the south. It gets crazy here during the day; people are queuing for their best shot in a bikini or short trousers under the waterfall.

However, for your perfect shot, visit Anjos, which means Angel Waterfall, after midday for the perfect sunlight. The waterfall is in the shade in the morning.  Google Maps Link Anjos  

4 Cascata da Agua D'Alto 

Actually, an old Levada hike that does not exist officially any longer. It is a short return hike of 3 km, almost without incline. At the end of this little overgrown path, plunges one of the most stunning waterfalls down to your feet.

This is one of the hidden gems and not much frequented in the north close to Santana. We parked our car to the right and walked for roughly 200m around one curve until we reached this house. Walk down the steps and turn right.

You immediately reach the old path and Levada. Follow the path next to the water channel. Only once, there is a short descent and ascent.

The trail is a bit muddy in some parts and a bit exposed, but overall easy to hike.

The vegetation and forest along the trail with huge fern trees are amazing. Also, fruits grow here along the trail from the gardens. 

We were already fascinated when we first saw this tall waterfall. At the bottom of the fall is a pool that is great for a bath. Usually, the waterfall exists in the wetter season only. Parking in the remote village ( Google Maps Links )

5 Agua D'Alto and the old R101 in the north

This waterfall has the same name as the one before but is less spectacular. Many cars stop here coming from Sao Vicente. I mention this waterfall because of the old R101 to the right in the back of the picture. This old R101 is not accessible for cars any longer because of rockfalls. I don't want to encourage you to walk here. It is at your own risk! We couldn't resist getting a glimpse of the wild coast.

The road leads through several tunnels. Because of the dripping water everywhere, the vegetation in the tunnels is fascinating, also on the rock walls outside. Colourful epiphytes are spread on the rocks. 

A hiking trail leading up to Encuemeda was not maintained any longer. However, lots of rocks of all sizes laid around.

6 Miradouro Veu da Noiva

In former times the old R101 led behind the waterfall. Nowadays, the road is closed for safety reasons, and a tunnel was built instead. There is plenty of parking just 100 m up, a snack bar, and restrooms. It is a picturesque stop on the road in the north. Depending on the season, it is a trickle in the summer and much bigger in the winter. 

7 Must Things to Do and Instagram Spots in Madeira

There is so much to see and do on this exceptional island; a couple of weeks are needed to get an idea of the beauty. My "7 Must-Do and See Places" in Madeira are easily visited in one week. All these 7 spots can be visited for free. No entrance fee or parking is charged. 

Rental Cars on Narrow Streets or Taxi Service

Our house was further up, but parking in front meant driving up to the end before you can turn the car. My rental car was a Fiat Panda; excellent to drive through the narrow, winding roads. Driving was challenging the first day, but I quickly adjusted to the steep roads, often more than a 30% incline. Now it is really fun to speed up to get to the top. Overall I drove almost 3.000 km in five weeks. 

For a more relaxed vacation, choose a location where restaurants and the sea are within walking distance. Many taxis are available in Madeira, offering all sights and locations in a round trip for fixed prices. I met several couples on my hikes who used the taxi service during their stay. You frequently find taxi business cards at the end of a hiking trail. To get an idea, I added a  picture below to see all available places and prices from Calheta. I recommend choosing one service for the entire time to negotiate a better price for your holidays. 

Where to Stay - Rental Houses

If you prefer a greener, wilder coast which is less busy, stay in the north. The south is drier, warmer, and sunnier but not as spectacular. We chose the south for swimming in the evening on our workcation. 

We rented a house in Arco da Calheta 600 m above sea level for more than a month. The sunsets from this elevation are breathtaking almost every evening. 

For a better understanding, I added descriptions for all pictures below.

Best Time to Visit Madeira

Climate Overview

Geographical location

Climate in madeira.

Beach Vacation in February

Best Time to Visit Madeira: Overview

When to travel to madeira, climate chart madeira.

Source of Data: German Weather Service (Offenbach) and Wikipedia

Climate Table Madeira

Temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in funchal (madeira), sights in madeira, popular activities, more attractions, current weather and forecast.

Portugal: Regions

Best time to travel for the regions.

Funchal: May , June , July , August , and September

Activities and Attractions

Distances to madeira, where’s madeira, continent: europe, madeira: experiences of our visitors.

This island is just great. We were there in May, hadn’t the dream weather – sometimes cloudy and a little drizzle – but the people and the versatility make up for everything. Anytime again.

Weather Rating: 5 stars – Excellent

it was very nice we were satisfied and could do a lot

We were in April in time for the flower festival in Madeira. It was incredibly warm, blue sky, pure sun. Anytime again.

mild temperatures day and night around 20 degrees, 3 of 7 days with rain, but always pleasant – without real cold feeling

Weather Rating: 3 stars – Mixed

Lots of sunshine, pleasant temperatures, great climate landscape great only in the evening a little fog

Warm, but not too hot. One week of sunshine, no rain – ideal travel weather for this beautiful island!

better weather than expected. temperatures 20 to 25 degrees ideal for outings and when there was no wind also for sunbathe

Weather Rating: 4 stars – Good

It was still a bit fresh, especially at night, but you have to reckon with that even in summer in Madeira. Apart from that, the beginning of March proved to be the best time to travel, we had a lot of sunshine and only one day with dense cloud cover. It was especially nice that we (against all predictions) had no rain at all

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Best Time to Visit Madeira Portugal

Madeira, known as the “Island of Eternal Springtime,” is a breathtaking destination that offers lush landscapes, captivating festivals, and an inviting climate year-round. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking to relax by the sea, Madeira has something special for everyone. Madeira, which lies just 300 miles off of the coast of Morocco, is a wonderful destination year round. But when is the best time for you to visit the paradise of Madeira Portugal? Let’s explore.

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Spring: Flower Festival

Spring in Madeira is a spectacle of nature. As the island awakens from its mild winter, you’re greeted with an explosion of color. The Flower Festival , usually held in May, is a must-see, with its grand parades, intricate flower carpets, and creation of the Wall of Hope. The weather is comfortably warm, and the tourist crowds are yet to arrive, making it an ideal time for those seeking peace amidst nature’s beauty.

In addition to the flower festival, spring is a wonderful time to enjoy all that Madeira has to offer. Prime beach going in Madeira typically starts in May.

Summer: Sun, Sea, and Festivities

Summer brings the best of Madeira’s sunny weather, with temperatures hovering around a pleasant 77°F (25°C). Some days will be much warmer, with a hot and dry Sahara wind blowing in. You may also find foggy mornings, especially in June-July.

Summer is the peak season for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. The ocean is inviting, and activities like whale watching, scuba diving, and sailing are at their best. Don’t miss the Atlantic Festival in June, an event that combines cultural activities, weekly fireworks shows, music, dance, and the regional arts fair.

Autumn: A Hiker’s Paradise

As the heat subsides, autumn makes for the perfect hiking weather in Madeira. The island’s famed Levadas (irrigation channels) offer unique walking paths through lush forests and alongside dramatic cliffs. The grape harvests in late-August to September bring about the lively Wine Festival, celebrating Madeira’s rich viniculture with tastings and traditional entertainment. The ocean is typically still warm enough for swimming. With fewer tourists and still warm days, autumn is a hidden gem for travelers.

Winter: Warm Winters and Festive Cheer

Madeira’s winter is milder than mainland Europe, with average high temperatures ranging from 65-72°F (18-22°C). It’s a magical time to visit, especially with the Christmas lights in Funchal creating a festive atmosphere unlike any other. The New Year’s Eve fireworks display is recognized as one of the world’s best, offering a spectacular welcome to the new year. For those looking to escape the cold winter elsewhere, Madeira provides a perfect escape from the cold.

December has more rain than other months. Despite this, you can enjoy most all of the activities Madeira is known for in winter, whether hiking or visiting natural pools and botanical gardens. You may find it rainy on one side of the island, while it’s sunny on the other side. Swimming in the ocean can be done, though the waves can be quite rough and water temperature averages 68°F (20°C).

If you are interested in planning a winter getaway to Madeira, you might like this post: Visit Madeira, Portugal to Escape the Cold .

Best Time to Visit Madeira Portugal Based on Interests

• Nature and Flower Lovers: Spring for the Flower Festival.
• Beach and Water Sports: Summer for the best beach weather and water activities.
• Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Autumn for comfortable temperatures and scenic beauty.
• Festivals and Mild Winter: Winter for Christmas lights and New Year’s celebrations.

What is the best time to visit Madeira, Portugal? Madeira’s unique climate means there’s never a bad time to visit. Whether you come for the blooming spring, the sunny summer, the tranquil autumn, or the festive winter, Madeira will greet you with open arms and a plethora of activities. Consider what you want to experience most, and plan your trip to this enchanting island accordingly.

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15 comments

[…] Madeira offers a more laid-back cultural vibe, with its traditional markets, charming fishing villages, and the famous Madeira wine. The island’s rich history is evident in its historic buildings, museums, and gardens, like the stunning Monte Palace Tropical Garden and Madeira Botanical Gardens. One of the largest festivals in Madeira is the Flower Festival, typically held in May each year. It has large parades, intricate flower carpets, and the Wall of Hope. You can find more information on Madeira’s festival in our post on Best Time to Visit Madeira Portugal. […]

Madeira looks gorgeous but landing at the airport scares me a bit. Nevertheless, Madeira is really on my wish list for a winter break. I would love to swim and maybe scuba dive a little bit. Thank you for praising MAdeira as a year round great destination! Saved for later

I hope you can visit. The water is a bit chilly then, but some swim there year round.

I have not been to this part of Portugal but I think I need to. Fall looks like my kind of season for a visit!

Fall is the perfect balance of great weather for exploring and hiking with warm enough water to swim. Hope you can visit.

We had one day in Madeira on a cruise and always wanted to go back for a longer visit. I like the idea of visiting in the Spring for the Flower Festival before the summer crowds arrive. But it looks like a new spot for us to try for winter escapes when we want to escape Toronto snow. Might need to visit in more than one season to determine our favourite time to visit Madeira!

It sounds like you may need to plan a few visits then, especially to get out of the cold winters.

I’ve visited in December, March, April and May, and they were all pretty good.

Glad you enjoyed your visits!

I hiked Madeira in January 2020 right before the pandemic started. I had no idea it would be 2 years before I traveled back to Europe. It is a wonderful island.

Our most recent trip was in winter as well. It is a beautiful island with so much to offer.

Ah, Madeira sounds like a paradise!

It really is, I hope you can visit.

Combining hiking with a wine festival sounds like heaven to me!

I fully agree with you!

• BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO VISIT MADEIRA

Are you wondering what is the best time of the year to visit Madeira ?

Well the good news, is that Madeira is an all-year-round destination. However, to avoid rainy days some months are better than the others…

Located in the heart of the Atlantic, the island of Madeira has a subtropical climate.

When to Visit Madeira?

Winter to skip the crowd and enjoy some warmer days compared to the rest of europe.

Temperatures fluctuate on average between 15°C at night and 20°C during the day in winter in Madeira . The weather can change quickly, with the rain.

It rains most between October and February and it can be quite windy. So be careful and watch the weather forecast carefully if you want to hike in the mountains or go on excursions.

As for us, we visited Madeira during a month in February. We had wonderful days, and could even spend a few days sunbathing at the beach. There were a few days with lots of showers, especially in the north, but at least the temperature was so much better than the rest of Europe during that time.

READ: 30 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO SEE IN MADEIRA

IN SPRING TO SEE THE ISLAND FULL OF COLOURFUL FLOWERS

Spring is certainly one of the most pleasant seasons to visit Madeira . During this period, the temperatures vary respectively from 17 to 20°C. You may observe a light cloud cover during the mornings in June: a phenomenon called the “capacete” by locals. But this disappears as the day progresses. Rain showers are rare between May and August. Indeed, the rainy season ends in April

Spring is ideal for going on a hike and discovering the stunning landscapes that the island has to offer. Also note that the flower festival, the most famous festival in the archipelago, is in May. The island is covered with colorful flowers everywhere. It’s magical!

READ: 3 BEST AREAS TO STAY DURING YOUR TRIP TO MADEIRA

IN SUMMER FOR THE WARMEST DAYS AND BLUE SKY

On average, temperatures hover between 20°C with a maximum of 25-26°C during the day in summer.

However, summer is the busiest period to visit Madeira as it attracts lots of tourists. Therefore if you like to have peace when visiting Madeira’s main sights or when going on a hike, choose Spring or Autumn to visit the island.

READ: 20 AWESOME THINGS TO SEE IN FUNCHAL

IN AUTUMN TO ENJOY THE ISLAND BY YOURSELF

Although there is more rain during this season, it is a great time to visit Madeira , as there won’t be as many tourists as in summer and temperatures are still reasonably warm reaching 24°C on average during the day. The water temperature is still mild which is great for swimming too.

READ: FULL GUIDE FOR HIKING LEVADA CALDEIRAO VERDE IN MADEIRA

IS IT WINDY IN MADEIRA?

The quick answer is: YES! It can get very windy in Madeira . It is in fact, not uncommon to have flights cancelled due to strong wind. Indeed the flights are not able to land at the airport in Madeira . This is exactly what happened to us. The day we were supposed to leave, the wind was so strong that for 2 days no flights could land or take off!

Well, we didn’t really mind, as we were on a sabbatical anyway, with plenty of time ahead of us. Thankfully we were able to fly out 2 days later.

The predominant wind in Madeira is the North-East wind during summer. From October to March, it is more of a westerly wind: it is the Azores anticyclone, which brings rains to the island.

Overall, the wind is stronger in the north of the island. The mountains culminating at more than 1400 meters of altitude block the gusts and the clouds. Therefore they protect the south from rain, humidity, and wind in general.

WHAT IS THE WATER TEMPERATURE IN MADEIRA?

The ocean temperature fluctuates between 18 and 23°C all year round. The coldest months are December to April. You can therefore swim all year round in Madeira if you are not chilly.

If you want to enjoy time at the beach in Madeira, then head to the neighboring island of Porto Santo with its super large 7 km long beach!

ARE THERE ANY FESTIVALS IN MADEIRA?

There are many festivities in Madeira throughout the year. We listed the main ones below:

NEW YEAR’S EVEN! ONE OF THE BIGGEST FIREWORKS IN THE WORLD!

New Year’s Eve in Madeira ? Funchal is where you want to be! The incredible fireworks is considered one of the most spectacular in the world and even entered the Guinness Book of World Records. The New Year is in high season in Madeira , it is necessary to prepare everything in advance. The harbor is full of cruise ships.

CARNIVAL, ONE OF THE MAIN EVENTS IN MADEIRA

The carnival is held 40 days before Easter. A traditional parade and one of the major events in Madeira, where people from all over the world come to see the extremely well-organized Samba troupes that fill the streets of Funchal with music and dancing. There are two carnival parades, the largest taking place on Saturday evening, the Allegoric Parade (Cortejo Alegórico) with lively and colorful costumes. The last parade, on Tuesday, the Humorous Parade (o Trapalhão), renowned for its humor and social satyrism, is the funniest parade and the one everyone is waiting for.

THE FLOWER FESTIVAL, A MUST-SEE IN MADEIRA!

The Flower Festival in spring is one of the most colorful traditional events held in Madeira and it takes place every spring. Many activities and parties take place around Funchal, starting with a carpet of flowers on the sidewalks, concerts and folk groups dancing in the open air. There are also many flower shows. During the big main parade many diverse groups line up and dance through the streets of Funchal, in their beautiful embroidered Madeiran costumes full of colors, floats are decorated and filled with a wide variety of Madeiran flowers.

RECAP FOR THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MADEIRA

With a small variation in temperature according to the seasons, Madeira is an all-year-round place to visit. There are many things to do in Madeira in any season. Surfing enthusiasts can practice in all seasons, enjoying great waves. Hikers can venture in the many trails in Madeira to see the countless waterfalls. If you want to go for a swim you can also do so at any month of the year.

However, to avoid rainy days choose summer to visit Madeira. If you want to skip the crowd and still enjoy optimal conditions, then choose Spring or Autumn for your visit of Madeira.

We wrote many posts to help you plan your trip in Madeira, check it out below:

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When Is The Best Time to Visit Madeira Island

Optimal time to visit madeira island: a seasonal guide.

The argument could be made that Madeira is easily one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. Though the small island chain has been on the radar of sun-seeking travelers from the UK and Northern Europe for about a century, it’s remained largely un-buzzed about and left off the wanderlust lists of travelers from North America and other parts of the world. But, that’s all about to change.

So, when is the best time to visit Madeira? The answer is simple: all year long. Located about 350 miles west of Africa, and about a 90-minute plane ride south of Lisbon, Madeira is practically drenched in year-round sunshine , and dry, warm temperatures. Though the island boasts a pleasantly mild Mediterranean climate year-round, visitors will encounter varied microclimates spanning from the damp and windy northeast to the dry, protected bays of the south. Despite Madeira’s lush greenery and blooming, tropical flowers, the island doesn’t get much rain or see a major spike in summer temperatures. So, whether you’re looking to relax poolside, stroll through historic markets, hike to the tallest peak, or rappel through ravines on a canyoning adventure, in Madeira, you can experience it all, any time of year.  

Here’s what you can expect each season in Madeira Island through all the seasons:

Springtime in Madeira: A Season of Blossoming Beauty (March to June)

Renowned as the " Island of Eternal Spring, " springtime is arguably the perfect season to explore. In the delightful months of March, April, and May, the weather is typically warm and comfortable, ideal for light, summery attire, though it's wise to bring along an umbrella for sporadic rain showers. During these months, the island bursts into a kaleidoscope of vibrant blooms. A special treat awaits those visiting in May, when Funchal's annual Flower Festival transforms the streets into a mesmerizing array of colorful floral displays, complete with parades and festivities, celebrating the island's natural splendor.

In spring, the weather in Madeira is characterized by mild and comfortable temperatures. From March to May, the daytime temperatures gradually increase, ranging from 20.4°C to 21.6°C, while nighttime temperatures offer a cooler respite, averaging between 13.9°C and 15.6°C. This comfortable range of temperatures is complemented by fresh breezes and the island's blossoming beauty.

Recommendations to do in the Spring:

• Explore the Laurisilva Forest: Spring is an excellent time to hike through Madeira's lush, UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest.
• Attend the Flower Festival : If you're in Madeira in May, don't miss the famous Funchal Flower Festival. 
• Visit the Botanical Gardens : The Botanical Garden in Funchal is a must-see in spring when the flowers are in full bloom.

Summer in Madeira Island: Embracing the Sun-Kissed Splendor (June to September)

Summer in Madeira is all about sunshine, blue skies, and calm seas. Visitors who come during the summer months can expect a spectacular whale-watching experience. Head to the neighboring island Porto Santo if you want to spend your days basking in the sunshine on the island’s gorgeous white sand beaches. If you prefer dramatic cliffs, natural ocean pools, black sand, or even rocky beaches, Madeira’s got it all. Though the temperatures peak during June, July, and A ugust, always pack a swimsuit no matter what time of the year you choose to visit Madeira. Visitors can expect to take full advantage of the islands’ bathing areas or even hotel pool facilities even with winter sun-- just don’t forget to pack your sunscreen! 

The climate in Madeira is moderated by the Canary Current and the Gulf Stream, contributing to the island's overall mild temperatures throughout the year. On average, the summer temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius (77ºF)

Recommendations to do in the Summer:

• Beach Days: Madeira's coastlines are stunning, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy the beaches. Calheta and Machico have lovely sandy beaches, while Porto Moniz is famous for its natural volcanic pools.
• Water Sports: Take advantage of the warm weather to try water sports like surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, or even stand-up paddleboarding. 
• Whale and Dolphin Watching: Embark on an unforgettable journey in Madeira's waters during the summer months for an awe-inspiring whale-watching experience.

Embrace the Magic of Autumn on Madeira Island  (September to December)

With the summer rush over, autumn offers a more relaxed and less crowded experience. This means more space and tranquility, especially in popular tourist spots. Autumn in Madeira Island offers a unique and enchanting experience. As the heat of summer gives way to milder temperatures, the island transforms into a palette of warm colors, making it an ideal time for those who prefer a more temperate climate. Autumn typically sees temperatures ranging from 19°C to 26°C (66°F to 79°F). This pleasant weather is perfect for outdoor activities without the intensity of summer heat.

Recommendations to do in the Autumn:

• Wine Tasting and Tours : Autumn is a great time to visit vineyards and sample Madeira's famous wines. Many wineries offer tours and tastings.
• Hiking and Exploring Nature: The cooler temperatures make autumn an ideal time for hiking and exploring the island's lush landscapes.
• Gastronomic Delights: Autumn is also a great time to explore Madeira's culinary scene.

Visitors who decide to ring in the New Year in Madeira will be treated to Europe’s most impressive fireworks show and party! The list of events during this time of year also includes art festivals; traditional religious festivities; international movie festivals, and so many others-- including one for wine lovers! T he Madeira Wine Festival takes place in October , following the harvest, where wine lovers can expect to take part in the wine-making process with their bodies and soul. Relive the time-honored traditions of the region’s wine-making by picking grapes, tasting the famous wine, and joining in on the many celebrations and activities taking place around the island.

Winter Wonders of Madeira Island: A Season of Festive Splendor (December to February)

Madeira's subtropical climate ensures winters are gentle and inviting, with average temperatures comfortably hovering between 16°C to 20°C (61°F to 68°F). This mild weather is a refreshing respite from the severe cold found in many other regions, making it an ideal winter retreat. The island's winter warmth is accompanied by a mix of sunny days and occasional rain, which nurtures its lush landscapes, ensuring they remain vibrant and green throughout the season.

Recommendations to do in Winter:

• Christmas and New Year Festivities: Madeira is famous for its spectacular Christmas lights and New Year's Eve fireworks in Funchal, which is recognized as one of the world's best fireworks displays.
• Visiting Museums and Cultural Sites: Take advantage of the quieter season to visit museums, historical sites, and cultural attractions without the rush.

If you have fallen in love with Madeira, take a look at our hassle-free packages that allow you to plan your dream trip to this beautiful destination. Our team of local experts has thoughtfully designed all our packages, ensuring that you don't have to worry about any arrangements. Simply sit back, unwind, and make the most of your vacation!

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Weather in Madeira in March travel guide

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written by Olga Sitnitsa

updated 25.04.2024

March in Madeira offers a mild spring climate ideal for comfortably exploring the stunning mountains, lush gardens and quaint villages. The beautiful weather in Madeira in March creates ideal conditions for hiking in the levadas, enjoying the local cuisine and relaxing on serene beaches that are comfortable and warm, with plenty of seclusion. Moderate temperatures and a welcoming atmosphere make this the perfect place for an outdoor vacation.

Highlights Madeira weather in March

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A self drive to Portugal's North and Center

Starting in fascinating Lisbon, this trip allows you to discover Portugal both on your own as well as with guided tours. Driving further up north you'll explore Coimbra and Porto before heading to the Douro Valley and Alentejo.

The weather in Madeira in March is the perfect backdrop for a variety of activities, from adventurous nature excursions to relaxing by the ocean. Here are some of the highlights of the weather conditions you can expect:

• Mild temperatures : The island enjoys mild weather with average daytime temperatures hovering around 20°C (around 70°F), perfect for outdoor activities without overheating. Spring blossom : With the arrival of spring, Madeira's gardens and landscapes bloom with vibrant colors, making it a stunning time to visit botanical gardens and natural parks. Ideal for hiking : The temperate climate makes March one of the best months for hiking through Madeira's extensive network of levadas (irrigation canals), where you can explore lush, green landscapes in comfort. Pleasant beach weather : Although the beaches in March are not as warm as in the summer months, they are warm enough to relax by the sea and enjoy the quiet of the off-peak season. Low rainfall : Compared to the wetter winter months, rainfall is relatively low, providing more sunny days ideal for sightseeing and exploring the island.

Keen to visit Madeira? Talk to our local Portugal experts to kick-start creating your dream trip. And to ensure you're well-equipped for your trip explore our list of tips for traveling in Portugal .

Portugal, Madeira, city of Funchal on landscape seen from Pico dos Barcelos  © Shutterstock

March is an attractive time to visit Madeira as it transitions to spring. Although the weather in Madeira in March is not as warm as in the summer months, the climate is ideal if you want to enjoy an active vacation without the discomfort of extreme heat or crowds of tourists during the peak tourist season.

Rainfall in March can still be frequent, but it is much less than in the winter months. On average, Madeira receives around 72mm of rainfall over the 12 days of March, meaning that although there are wet days, prolonged periods of rain are rare. This allows you to plan outdoor excursions with confidence in the good weather, although it wouldn't hurt to bring a light raincoat.

March falls in the "shoulder" season of tourism in Madeira. This means fewer tourists, more affordable accommodation, and generally quieter attractions. For travelers who prefer a quieter vacation with fewer crowds at popular attractions and on hiking trails, this can be especially beneficial.

Overall, March can be a great time to visit Madeira due to the mild weather, moderate rainfall, and the benefits of traveling during the shoulder season. This combination creates favorable conditions to explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions of the island with greater ease and comfort.

Editor’s tip: for a bigger picture of the weather, read up on the best time to visit Portugal .

Madeira, Portugal  © Shutterstock

The weather in Madeira in March is characterized by average high temperatures of around 20°C (68°F) and average low temperatures of around 16°C (61°F) . These mild conditions provide a comfortable climate suitable for a variety of activities, from hiking to exploring the local towns.

Temperature fluctuations from day to night are generally moderate. Daytime temperatures are warm enough for light clothing, while evenings may require a light jacket or sweater, especially if you are near the coast or at higher elevations where it may be cooler.

Compared to other times of the year, temperatures in March in Madeira are cooler than during the peak summer months, when average temperatures can reach 25°C (77°F) or higher. However, March is significantly warmer than the coldest winter months such as January and February, where nighttime lows can drop as low as 13°C (55°F). 

March marks the beginning of spring, which brings a gradual increase in the number of sunny days and a decrease in rainfall. It is a transitional period that combines the remnants of the winter chill with the approaching summer warmth.

Want even more inspiration for your Portugal adventure? Discover the best places to visit in Portugal .

March in Madeira falls during the shoulder season, which offers distinct advantages in terms of tourist flow and cost. It is less crowded than the peak summer months of July and August, when tourists flock to enjoy the hot weather and colorful summer festivals. As a consequence, if you arrive in March you will find more tranquility and fewer queues at the main attractions and on the tourist routes.

The reduced number of tourists also affects the cost of accommodation and flights, which are usually lower than in the high season. This makes March an economically attractive time if you are looking for a bargain. In addition, the mild weather in Madeira in March allows you to enjoy outdoor activities without the discomfort of the summer heat, providing a balanced introduction to Madeira's natural beauty and cultural offerings.

Turquoise waters at Machico bay, Madeira © Balate Dorin/Shutterstock

Are you ready to plan your dream trip to Portugal? The local experts at Rough Guides can help you create a fully customized and unforgettable itinerary tailored to your preferences . Here are three tantalizing travel options you should consider:

• The Wines of Portugal (9 days): This unforgettable journey takes you to some of Portugal's best wine regions, including the Douro Valley. Taste the best local varieties and explore the exciting and stunningly beautiful cities of Lisbon and Porto, complete with guided tours of their historic old towns.
• The best of Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve (12 days): Portugal offers many attractions, but if you're short on time, this trip is perfect for covering all the highlights: the capital Lisbon, historic Porto, the luxurious Douro Valley, and the stunning beaches of the Algarve are all included in this trip.
• Madeira and São Miguel - guided island adventures (9 days): Visit Portugal's two autonomous regions: Madeira, the island of eternal spring as it is known, and São Miguel, nicknamed the green island. Guided tours will introduce you to the highlights of both islands, with plenty of time to explore on your own or simply relax.
• Discover more of our Portugal itineraries .

March in Madeira is a delightful mix of activities and attractions that are especially enjoyable thanks to the mild weather and the emergence of spring flowers. Here are five great activities and attractions to enjoy during your visit:

• Explore the Levadas : March is ideal for hiking along Madeira's unique irrigation canals, known as levadas, which offer scenic views of lush spring vegetation.
• Visit the Botanical Gardens : As the blossoms begin to bloom, March is the perfect time to visit Madeira's famous botanical gardens, which showcase a vibrant variety of native and exotic plants.
• Whale and dolphin watching : Take advantage of the calm seas in March to embark on a whale and dolphin watching excursion - an unforgettable way to experience Madeira's rich marine life.
• Taste Madeira wine : Visit local wineries to learn about Madeira's world-famous wine and taste it when there are fewer tourists around.
• Visit Festa da Anona : If you're in Madeira in March, don't miss the Festa da Anona (Festival of the Cherimoya Fruit) in Faial, which celebrates the harvest of this delicious local fruit with music, exhibitions, and tastings.

Madeira offers only a fraction of the unique experiences that Portugal has to offer. For even more ideas for your vacation, see our guide to the best things to do in Portugal .

A year-round paradise, Madeira offers unique experiences every month to suit a variety of travelers' preferences. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural events, or just a relaxing vacation in nature, Madeira's diverse climate and activities ensure that there is always something special to do here.

• April :  Delight in the Madeira Flower Festival, where the island explodes with color and fragrant displays.
• May : Enjoy comfortable temperatures and the start of the season of outdoor activities, including the Madeira Island Ultra Trail.
• June : Take part in the Atlantic Festival with fireworks and music, which marks the beginning of the summer festivities.
• July : Enjoy the summer heat, ideal for beach walks and water sports in Madeira's crystal clear waters.
• August : Experience the peak of summer with lively street festivals, including the popular Madeira Wine Festival.
• September : Take advantage of warm seas and less crowded attractions as the high season comes to an end.
• October : Watch the leaves change and enjoy the mild weather, ideal for exploring the island's natural landscapes.
• November : Enjoy the quieter side of Madeira and the wine harvest festivities, ideal for food lovers.
• December : Get into the festive spirit with Madeira's famous Christmas lights and New Year's Eve fireworks.
• January : Experience the tranquility of post-holiday Madeira, ideal for enjoying its natural beauty without the crowds of tourists.
• February : Take part in the vibrant festivities of the Madeira Carnival, one of the most colorful and lively events on the island.

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I visited the island that's been called the 'Hawaii of Europe.' Here's why it's a must-see hidden gem.

• I visited Madeira, Portugal, which is often referred to as the " Hawaii of Europe."
• Madeira offers a mild climate all year, rugged coastlines, and a bustling city center.
• I recommend checking out places like Monte Palace and the Cabo Girão skywalk.

When I visited Madeira, Portugal , I found an island paradise brimming with natural wonders and cultural opportunities.

From outdoor adventures to trips to the enchanting Funchal city center, this Portuguese hidden gem has sparked comparisons to Hawaii due to the island's striking volcanic features, black-sand beaches, and towering peaks.

Madeira is the perfect blend of a tropical and European vacation, coupled with its yearlong mild climate, rugged coastlines, cascading waterfalls, and verdant cliffs.

With visitation at an all-time high , there's never been a better time to explore Portugal. Here are seven things you have to do while in Madeira.

Get a taste of outdoor adventure while hiking.

The view from the Pico do Arieiro mountaintop left me speechless.

You can truly appreciate Madeira's diverse landscapes from up there: jagged peaks, verdant valleys, and the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean stretching out before you.

I opted for a car ride to the top, but if you plan to hike, I recommend heading to the Vereda dos Balcões trail or the challenging but rewarding Levada do Caldeirão Verde.

When you need a break from hiking, catch a ride on the Funchal cable cars.

Located in the city center, the Funchal cable cars offer spectacular views as they ascend from Funchal to the charming village of Monte. It's perfect if you're traveling with family, including kids or elders.

Once in Monte, you can visit one of the island's main attractions, Monte Palace.

Monte Palace is the best botanical garden I’ve ever been to.

Monte Palace houses a huge collection of exotic plants from all over the world. The tropical gardens are also home to gorgeous birds like swans, flamingos, peacocks, and chickens.

From its beautiful gardens to its collection of ceramic tiles and precious gemstones, this place feels like a hidden oasis in the midst of the city.

If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, check out the Cabo Girão skywalk.

If there's something I love as much as the outdoors, it's a unique experience . So when I heard of Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe , I knew I had to visit.

The top of the cliff features a unique glass-floored skywalk suspended over 1,900 feet above sea level. When standing on the glass, I got unmatched views of Madeira's rugged coastline and the crashing waves underneath.

When in Madeira, skip the beer and stick to its famous wine.

In addition to being the name of the name of the island, Madeira is also a type of fortified wine. Needless to say, you can't leave without visiting a vineyard to learn more about the island's winemaking heritage.

I highly recommend booking a guided tour with a tasting to see the grapes firsthand and gain insights into the intricate aging process that gives these wines unique flavors.

Take a trip to the local market.

Whenever I visit a new city or country, I like to stop at the local farmers market . In Madeira, I visited the Mercado dos Lavradores, which is located in the heart of Funchal.

It was a great opportunity to sample local delicacies while buying souvenirs from local craftsmen.

For a glimpse into everyday life, don’t skip a visit to the Camara da Lobos fishing village.

Away from the city center and less frequented by tourists , the picturesque fishing village of Camara da Lobos offers a slice of authentic island life.

Grab a poncha, a local Madeira cocktail, and admire the dozens of art murals that surround the community, all while enjoying the colorful harbor and fishermen unloading their catch of the day.

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These Are 4 Of The Cheapest And Most Incredible Destinations To Visit In Portugal Right Now

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Home to a gorgeous Atlantic coast, where some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe can be found, ancient cities with origins lost to time, and a highly-reputed food scene, Portugal is currently one of the trendiest destinations for tourists across the pond.

Not only is it everything you'd expect a Southern European country to be, in terms of cultural offer and weather, but it is also renowned for being the cheapest of the bunch: it costs an average $1,033 to spend a week basking in the sun, and savoring your way through Portugal.

If the Iberian gem's been on your radar for a while, and you've been wondering which Portuguese destinations will get you more bang for your buck – as well as blow your mind – these are 4 of the cheapest (and most incredible) spots:

The leading tourist destination in the sunny Algarve, mainland Portugal's southernmost territory , Albufeira is nicknamed ‘ Portuguese Santorini ‘, due to its whitewashed Old Town resting on small cliffs facing the ocean, and bright blue shutters and doors.

Albufeira is both the nightlife capital of the Algarve and the gateway to its sandy coast.

It is teeming with tourists year-round, particularly Brits and Northern Europeans, and for a resort zone as lively and well-frequented, you'd assume prices would reflect the soaring demand.

That's not necessarily the case, as tourists spend an average $1,305 for one week in Albufeira: the Velamar Boutique Hotel costs only $75 to book per night, while staying overnight at the adults-only Hotel California Urban Beach will set you back by an acceptable $132.

Naturally, you can go the all-inclusive resort or upscale restaurant route-there are plenty of those in Albufeira if you're keen on splurging-but if you're after a budget-friendly beach getaway, you will definitely find it here if you're fine not getting pampered 24/7.

Porto Santo

We've all heard of Madeira at this point, the ‘ Hawaii of Europe ‘, but very little is said of its Maldives-like sister , the neighboring, much smaller Porto Santo , part of the same archipelago, where beaches are sandy instead of pebbly and the ocean's a turquoise-blue.

Porto Santo is a natural oasis in the Atlantic, famous for its translucent waters, which rival the Indian Ocean in beauty, dramatic arid landscapes, year-round balmy weather due to its proximity to the African continent, and laid-back atmosphere.

While Madeira has become a globalized island, being home to multiple nationalities and hosting nonstop flights from America, Porto Santo is a lot more isolated , being served by a limited number of intra-Europe flights and Madeira ferries.

It's somewhere you go for unwinding and soaking up nature, and for a destination as exclusive as this, you may be surprised to learn that you can find dormitory beds for as cheap as $29, only 450 meters from the beach, and double rooms in three-star hotels for a very reasonable $93.

The average hotel cost for a one-week stay in Porto Santo comes in at an affordable $744.

It's not exactly cheap by Portuguese standards, but considering the complete lack of tourist crowds, the quality of the beaches, and the unlimited access to the wild nature, it's a fair trade off .

Back to the Portuguese mainland, miles away from the resort-packed coast and the sunny islands, Braga is a historic city in the far north of the country, only reachable by train and best known for its religious importance and medieval heritage .

An imposing cathedral dominates the cobbled Old Town, and its adjacent Sacred Art Museum and landmark Kings' Chapel, distinguished for being a textbook example of Gothic architecture, is sure to captivate history buffs.

Other attractions include well-preserved ancient walls, a neoclassical church perched atop a cascading stairway, possibly the most photographed in Portugal, and the lush Santa Barbara Garden, with its flower arrangements, and the nearby, monumental Archbishop's Palace.

Fortunately for the culture-seekers, Braga is pretty affordable for a historically-charged city break of its status, with week-long stays setting travelers back $786 or a remarkably cheap $380 if you're staying in shared dorms and eating in inexpensive local pastelarias .

The capital of Northern Portugal, the city of Porto has wooed passersby for years now, with its UNESCO-listed Historic Center , centuries-old tradition of wine-making, and fast-flowing Douro River, cutting through its very heart, providing an endless source of fascination.

Among some of the main Portenho landmarks, Clerigos Tower is perhaps the most noticeable one, rising above the maze of terracotta roofs below, though the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge, Lello Library, known to have inspired the Harry Potter saga, and the cathedral are not to be missed, either.

It is the only other Portuguese city that can stand up to Lisbon: it has Baroque churches that are just as ornate, a History that is just as ancient, and an equally vibrant multicultural scene .

With all the value it offers, the $59 you'll spend per day visiting Porto on a budget sound like an absolute bargain .

From traditional Portuguese pastries costing less than a dollar to satisfying $16 lunch menus including a starter or dessert and a main dish, exploring the hilly, colorful Porto and the wider, vineyard-dotted Douro Valley will hardly break the bank.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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The post These Are 4 Of The Cheapest And Most Incredible Destinations To Visit In Portugal Right Now appeared first on Travel Off Path .