Madeira is a blend of the exotic and the familiar, offering a unique charm of it's own.

Once thriving on sugar cane, the island is crisscrossed by levadas—small irrigation canals that have become a network of scenic walking trails.

For those who love heights, a hike to the island’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo, is a must. Start your journey at sunrise from Pico do Arieiro, and you’ll find yourself above the clouds, watching the sky transform into shades of marmalade. For a different perspective, take a catamaran tour where you can go whale watching and even swim with dolphins.

What to do?

Make sure to experience the incredible hiking opportunities at Ribeiro Frio, located 860m above sea level and surrounded by bird-filled forests. It’s home to some of the island’s most scenic trails. For a unique experience, swim in the natural lava pools in Porto Moniz, where the crystal-clear sea water is gently warmed by the sun before flowing into the shallow pools formed by lava. And don't miss the stunning botanical gardens—especially the Madeira Botanical Gardens, which you can easily access via a scenic cable car ride.

Where to stay?

Madeira offers a wide variety of accommodations, from luxurious quintas (large country estates filled with antiques) to charming rural lodges and sleek modern hotels. Start your stay in the capital, Funchal, at the iconic Belmond Reid’s Palace. With its dusty pink walls and lush subtropical gardens, this grand hotel offers stunning sea views (request one—it's right on the water’s edge).

Urban travelers will love The Vine Hotel, located in the heart of Funchal, complete with a sleek rooftop pool. Along the coast, Câmara de Lobos offers a picturesque setting, and you can stay at Pestana Churchill Bay, a hotel that honors Winston Churchill, offering views he once painted. For a breathtaking south coast experience, book a stay at Estalagem Ponta do Sol, where the infinity pool extends over the clifftop and into the sea.

Food and Drink

Try the local dish of fried banana and black scabbard fish—though it may not be the most attractive, it’s incredibly tasty when seasoned with garlic and dipped in breadcrumbs. Another must-try is espetada, skewered meats cooked on a laurel stick and served with bolo de caco, a traditional sweet potato bread roll. This same bread accompanies limpets, a local delicacy, which are grilled and served with a squeeze of lemon and plenty of garlic.

Madeira's tropical climate means fruit is abundant across the island—expect tiny bananas, intensely sweet pineapples, and miniature passion fruits. For dessert, order these fruits topped with condensed milk and jelly for a sweet treat.

Don’t Miss!

The island’s famous toboggans are a must-try experience. Hop into a traditional eucalyptus wood and wicker basket, and let two strong men in white uniforms push you down the steep streets of Monte towards Funchal. Hold on tight as you speed down at up to 30mph!

Know Before You Go

Most of Madeira’s beaches are black-sand or pebble beaches, so if you're dreaming of long golden stretches, plan a day trip to the nearby island of Porto Santo. The weather in Madeira can be unpredictable. It may be sunny in one area and raining in another, and a drive that starts in a T-shirt could soon require a jacket as you ascend 500 meters above sea level. Finally, if you’re short on time, don’t try to see the entire island. It’s nearly impossible, especially with the windy roads that can make travel slower than expected.

Madeira Island Vacation Travel Guide | Expedia Expedia 1.19M subscribers

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