Only have four days to spare? Let Winalist show you how to make every moment count on the island of Madeira. Floating in the Atlantic, this lush Portuguese paradise charms with dramatic cliffs, flower-filled valleys, and a cultural richness that surprises at every turn. Whether you’re drawn to sea-view hikes, charming village strolls, or simply sipping the best Madeira wine with a view, your long weekend can still be packed with the best things to do in Madeira. In this guide, you’ll find a curated collection of experiences that capture Madeira’s essence, from the vibrant streets of Funchal to the tranquil levadas that wind through the mountains.Taste, walk, explore, and toast to an unforgettable escape.
What are the best things to do in Madeira?
Hike the Levadas
One of Madeira’s most iconic experiences is hiking along the levadas, historic irrigation channels that snake through the mountains and forests. Trails like Levada do Caldeirão Verde or 25 Fontes offer spectacular views of waterfalls, lush valleys, and the island’s unique flora. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or prefer a gentle stroll, there’s a levada path for everyone.
Explore Funchal
The capital city, Funchal, is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Wander the charming streets of the old town, visit the colorful Mercado dos Lavradores, and take the cable car up to Monte for panoramic views. Don’t miss a visit to the Madeira Botanical Garden, followed by a thrilling wicker toboggan ride back down!
Slide into tradition: discover the Monte Basket sledges
One of Madeira’s most iconic and entertaining experiences is the ride in a “carrinho de cesto”, a traditional wicker toboggan used to descend from the hilltop village of Monte to downtown Funchal. Invented in the 19th century as a quick way for locals to get downhill, these two-seater basket sledges glide along paved streets for about 1.2 miles, steered expertly by the Carreiros do Monte. Dressed in white outfits and straw hats, the carreiros use rubber-soled boots to brake and guide the toboggan with remarkable precision. The ride combines fun, speed, and a touch of nostalgia, offering breathtaking views over the city. It’s not just a tourist attraction, it’s a living tradition and a must-try adventure that captures the quirky charm of Madeira.
Marvel at Cabo Girão skywalk
For a breathtaking blend of adrenaline and panoramic beauty, make your way to the Cabo Girão Skywalk, perched atop one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. Soaring 1,902 feet above sea level, this glass-floored platform offers a dizzying yet unforgettable view over the island’s dramatic terraced hillsides, the deep Atlantic below, and the sweeping southern coastline of Madeira. A must-see for thrill-seekers and scenery lovers alike.
Discover the natural pools of Porto Moniz
Tucked away on the northwestern tip of Madeira, Porto Moniz is renowned for its stunning natural lava pools, one of the island’s most unique attractions. These crystal-clear seawater basins, naturally carved into volcanic rock, offer an unforgettable swimming experience surrounded by wild Atlantic waves and rugged coastal cliffs. It’s a perfect spot to relax, cool off, and soak in the raw beauty of Madeira’s volcanic landscape.
Don’t miss our guide, visit Porto Moniz and the best of Winalist’s selection!
Drive through the Mountains
Madeira’s interior is a dreamscape of winding mountain roads, fragrant eucalyptus forests, and peaks that pierce the clouds. Renting a car is the best way to uncover this wild beauty at your own pace. Drive along scenic routes like the Encumeada Pass or ascend to Pico do Arieiro, where every twist in the road reveals jaw-dropping vistas. For the ultimate experience, set out early to catch sunrise from Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest point, an unforgettable moment where silence, color, and altitude converge.
What are the best things to do around Madeira?
Taste the Madeira wine
Madeira’s unique volcanic soil and diverse microclimates give rise to exceptional wines, most famously the island’s namesake, Madeira wine, known for its complexity and longevity. With Winalist, you can dive into this rich viticultural tradition through curated vineyard tours, immersive tastings, and encounters with passionate local winemakers. It’s a chance to deepen your appreciation for Portuguese wine and maybe even uncover a new favorite vintage.
Enjoy local specialties
To truly experience Madeira, follow the aromas into one of the island’s cozy seaside taverns and indulge in its most iconic local dishes. Start with espada com banana, a surprising yet beloved combination of black scabbardfish and sweet fried banana, crispy, tender, and uniquely Madeiran. Don’t miss bolo do caco, a warm, garlic-buttered flatbread served fresh off the griddle, perfect as a starter or side. And to wash it all down, raise a glass of poncha, the island’s traditional sugarcane spirit cocktail, mixed with honey and citrus. Each bite and sip captures the bold, simple flavors of Madeira’s land and sea.
Explore the sea and its wildlife
Set sail from Funchal Marina on a sleek catamaran for an unforgettable dolphin‑ and whale‑watching tour. Madeira’s nutrient‑rich waters are a year‑round playground for several dolphin species, pilot whales, and, depending on the season, even majestic sperm or humpback whales. For a more intimate perspective, swap sails for a paddle and discover the coast by kayak or stand‑up paddleboard. Embark from calm coves and glide beneath towering volcanic cliffs, exploring sea caves and secluded pebble beaches that larger boats can’t reach.
Take a day trip to the surrounding islands
Porto Santo, Madeira’s tranquil sister island where 5.6 miles of golden sand meet turquoise Atlantic waters in an atmosphere worlds apart from bustling Funchal. A short ferry or brief flight whisks you to this laid‑back haven, renowned for its therapeutic sand, gentle climate, and crystal‑clear seas ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving among shipwrecks. Wander the pastel streets of Vila Baleira, explore Christopher Columbus’s former residence‑turned‑museum, or rent a bike to reach the windswept viewpoint of Pico do Castelo.
Good to Know before visiting Madeira
When is the best time to visit Madeira?
Madeira enjoys a mild, spring‑like climate year‑round. April–June and September–early November offer warm days, fewer crowds, and clear skies, ideal for hiking and sightseeing. July–August is peak season for beachgoers, while December–March brings lush greenery and whale‑watching opportunities.
How do I get to Madeira?
Most visitors arrive by direct flight to Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC) from major European hubs. You can also take the overnight ferry from Portugal’s mainland (Portimão) during summer or fly 30 minutes from Lisbon/Porto.
What are the best places to stay?
- Quinta Da Penha De Franca: offers rooms with balconies overlooking either its lush gardens or the Atlantic. Each room includes a minibar, safe, cable TV, telephone, and hair dryer, and the 24‑hour front desk is always on hand.
- Golden Redisence Hotel: Golden Residence Hotel overlooks Madeira’s largest pebble strand, Praia Formosa, and features an outdoor pool, a full wellness centre, and contemporary rooms with private balconies.
- Aqua Natura Madeira: Aqua Natura Madeira is a 4‑star hotel in the fishing village of Porto Moniz, 28 mi from Funchal. All elegantly decorated rooms feature a balcony with Atlantic views, a seating area, minibar, and tea‑and‑coffee facilities; suites add sofas.
Do I need a car to explore the island?
A rental car gives you maximum flexibility on Madeira’s winding mountain roads. However, organized tours, public buses, and taxis cover popular routes if you prefer not to drive. For Porto Santo day‑trips, ferries and small aircraft are available.
What are the must‑do activities in Madeira?
- Hike a levada trail (e.g., 25 Fontes or Caldeirão Verde)
- Ride the Monte wicker toboggan
- Sample the best Madeira wine in Funchal’s historic lodges
- Stand on the Cabo Girão Skywalk
- Swim in Porto Moniz’s lava pools
- Take a dolphin‑ and whale‑watching catamaran cruise
Is Madeira safe for travelers?
Madeira is considered one of Europe’s safest destinations. Exercise standard precautions—watch belongings in busy areas, carry a rain jacket for sudden showers, and take care on exposed mountain trails.
Can I visit Porto Santo from Madeira in one day?
Yes. A daily ferry (≈ 2 h 30 min each way) and short domestic flights (≈ 30 min) make Porto Santo’s golden beaches accessible for a long day‑trip or easy overnight stay.
Do I need to speak Portuguese?
Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist services. Learning a few basics, “obrigado/a” (thank you) or “bom dia” (good morning), is appreciated by locals.