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Madeira
Madeira
Madeira holidays
Think outdoorsy experiences with a few cultural twists and you’ll be right on the money with Madeira. Visit this lush little year-round island and you’ll fall in love with its sub-tropical climate, botanical gardens and beautiful levadas (water channels). Its mighty mountain landscape is made for all sorts of sports both on and off dry land, although there are a fair few laid-back lidos when it’s time for taking it easy. But let’s talk food and drink. Dishes like garlic-basted espetada kebabs, honey cake, fiery poncha and sweet malmsey wine are local legends, so be sure to tuck in. Fancy afternoon tea, chic bars and boutique shopping? Colourful capital, Funchal, delivers on that front. Look out for quirky British heritage, in a nod to the island’s past.
Language
Portuguese
Currency
Euro
Time difference
Same as UK
Cost of a beer
£1.80
3 course meal
£22.20
Flight times
4.5hrs
Pools and sea
Madeira is famous for its lidos, or outdoor pools, and you’ll find them at Funchal and Caniço. Calheta, meanwhile, offers two man-made golden-sand beaches with stunning mountain views to rival them all. And Machico is home to a lovely beach made from glorious grains imported all the way from the western Sahara.
Get active
The sapphire waters around the island are great for surfing, scuba diving and big-game fishing. If you’re searching for something breathtaking, take a boat out to watch the whales and dolphins – there are about 20 species swimming in these waters! On dry land, it’s all about leafy levada walks that’ll make you feel like you’re in a tropical paradise.
Festivals and festive spirit
Embrace buzzy atmospheres and the party spirit with Madeira’s calendar of events. All year round, there are events and fiestas going on. During May, one of the world’s biggest and best flower festivals brightens the island with parades, markets and exhibitions. And during the festive season, Funchal’s twinkling with extravagant lights and New Year’s Eve marks a night of spectacular fireworks.
Funchal
Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is a historic town best known for its gorgeous gardens and pretty cobbled streets.
Canico
This quaint east coast village is a haven for walking and water sports, so if you’re feeling adventurous, this is the resort for you.
Calheta
With tailor-made sandy beaches, this irresistibly low-key resort is blissful alright.
Faja da Ovelha
On the west coast of Madeira, just 6km from Prazeres, lies a little village called Faja da Ovelha.
Madalena do Mar
Between Calheta and Ribeira Brava on the sun-kissed south coast sits the picturesque seaside village of Madalena do Mar.
Prazeres
With a name that translates as ‘pleasures’, this gorgeous green paradise has truly earned its title.
Beaches
Madeira is dotted with small, secluded beaches made from natural volcanic sand, so they’re all pretty unique. There’s a peaceful spot 25 minutes’ drive from Funchal and, over in Machico, the island’s second-biggest town, you’ll discover a golden-sand stretch that’s great for kids. Just pick a place! See all beaches (11)
Calheta Beach
Calheta, Madeira
The sweep of golden sand here has all the facilities a family needs, including showers and changing rooms. It's backed by a line-up of bars and restaurants, too, so you have drinks and snacks on hand. When...
Canical Beach
Madeira
Tucked away in a peaceful cove near the fishing village of Canical, this beach is quieter than other tourist spots and is one of the pretty pebble beaches on the island. There’s a café overlooking...
Sights
The island’s famous for its flowers. You’ll find out why at the Botanical Gardens in Funchal. These sit right on a hillside, so you’ll also get some unbeatable views of the city. But if you want pure and simple culture, there are many museums, galleries and monasteries to explore.
See all sights (56)
Botanical Gardens Madeira
Funchal, Madeira
Wander among fantastic flowers, trees and plants found only on the Atlantic islands at the Botanical Gardens Madeira in Funchal. Like tropical fruit? The mango and papaya trees will leave you feeling hungry -...
Lugar de Baixo Palace
Madeira
This Romanesque-style building looks like it’s been plucked straight from a fairytale. Set on a hillside in Lugar de Baixo, this pretty pink palace is certainly something to tick off your Madeira bucket...
Activities
The natural lava pools in Porto Moniz are a natural phenomenon you won’t find elsewhere. Take a swim and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery. Madeira’s levada walks are the real hillside heroes of this archipelago, while whale and dolphin watching is every bit as jaw-dropping as you’d imagine.
See all activities (18)
Christmas and New Year in Madeira
Funchal, Madeira
With its leafy landscape, balmy weather and charming culture, Madeira is a stand-out destination you can enjoy year-round. But one of the best times to visit is around Christmas and New Year when the locals go...
Levada Nova
Calheta, Madeira
Madeira is lined by miles of 'levada', which are mini-canals bringing water down from the lush mountains. This walk, which is around five or six miles, follows one through hills, forests, villages and fields....
Eating and drinking
You’ll find bolo do caco – a type of bread served warm with garlic butter and parsley – on pretty much every menu. And you can’t go home without trying some of the world-famous Madeira wine, with its smooth, sweet notes. Tuck into catch of the day as you drink in stunning coastal views. See all eating and drinking (6)
Afternoon tea at Belmond Reid's Palace
Funchal, Madeira
Traditional afternoon tea served on a clifftop terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean – Belmond Reid’s Palace is a must-visit. Fresh scones, dainty sandwiches, sumptuous pastries and special blend...
The Old Town
Funchal, Madeira
Make like the locals with a plate of hearty, rustic food in the charming Old Town of Funchal. Think locally caught swordfish, smoky chorizo stew or marinated lamb chargrilled over hot coals. Authentic...
Shopping
Funchal has plenty of charming boutiques selling local handicrafts, but there are major malls across the resorts of Madeira. Browse your favourite high street stores, or even opt for a more hands-on shopping experience. The local markets are great for picking up a few bargains and souvenirs.
See all shopping (3)
Armazem do Mercado
Funchal, Madeira
In Funchal’s Old Town you'll find this warehouse, home to a variety of shops and a market where you can buy local produce. It doubles up as a space for artists, and hosts regular events and concerts. There's...
Farmer's Market
Funchal, Madeira
Foodies will love this colourful, lively market where you can pick up everything from exotic fruit and veg to sweet-smelling spices and the freshest fish. Sellers are more than happy to chat to you about their...
Nightlife
Madeira’s nightlife is mainly centred on Funchal. Head down to the marina for tapas and cocktails, then go downtown and check out one of the clubs. If you’re feeling really flush, a night in the casino could see your luck change – or you could just enjoy over-ice tipples at least. See all nightlife (1)
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