Madeira is unlike anywhere else in Europe. Rising dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, this Portuguese island combines soaring volcanic peaks, lush UNESCO forests, spectacular coastal drives, and one of the world's most distinctive wine traditions.
Often called the "Hawaii of Europe," Madeira offers far more than hiking. Visitors can spend their days tasting historic Madeira wines, enjoying Michelin-starred restaurants, relaxing at luxury cliffside resorts, spotting dolphins and whales, or exploring charming villages tucked between towering mountains.
Whether you're planning a long weekend or a week-long luxury escape, Madeira delivers unforgettable scenery with surprisingly easy access, just a short flight from mainland Portugal.

Quick Facts
Recommended Stay:3-5 nights

Best Time to Visit

• April–June

• September–October

​Perfect For

• Luxury travelers

• Food & wine lovers

• Scenic road trips

• Hiking enthusiasts

• Photography

• Whale watching

Getting Around
Renting a car is the easiest way to explore Madeira's mountains, viewpoints, and coastal villages OR Hire a guide to drive you.

Why Visit Madeira?
✔ Dramatic volcanic mountains
✔ Spectacular ocean viewpoints
✔ UNESCO Laurisilva Forest
✔ Historic Madeira wine
✔ Luxury cliffside resorts
✔ Michelin-starred dining
✔ Whale & dolphin watching
✔ Mild temperatures year round

Top Experiences
​Hike Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
Madeira's most famous hike connects the island's highest peaks through tunnels carved into volcanic rock, dramatic staircases, and ridgelines floating above the clouds. Even visitors who don't complete the full trail should drive to Pico do Arieiro for sunrise.

Taste Historic Madeira Wine
Unlike any other wine in the world, Madeira is produced using a unique heating and aging process that allows it to develop extraordinary complexity while remaining drinkable for decades even after opening.
Historic producers worth visiting include:

• Blandy's Wine Lodge

• Barbeito

• Henriques & Henriques

• Pereira d'Oliveira

Ride the Monte Cable Car & Toboggan
Float above Funchal aboard the cable car before exploring Monte Palace Tropical Garden. Finish the experience by riding the famous wicker basket toboggan—a tradition unique to Madeira for over a century.

Whale & Dolphin Watching
Madeira is one of Europe's best destinations for marine wildlife. Throughout the year visitors regularly encounter dolphins, pilot whales, sperm whales, Bryde's whales, and sea turtles.

Cabo Girão Skywalk
Standing nearly 1,900 feet above the Atlantic, Cabo Girão is among Europe's highest sea cliffs. The glass viewing platform offers breathtaking views over the coastline and terraced farmland below

Explore Funchal
Madeira's capital combines centuries of history with modern luxury, making it one of Portugal's most enjoyable cities to explore.
Don't miss:

• Mercado dos Lavradores

• Zona Velha (Old Town)

• Painted Doors Project

• Funchal Cathedral

• Avenida do Mar

• Santa Catarina Park

• Marina

Spend the afternoon riding the cable car to Monte Palace before returning to the city for wine tasting and dinner overlooking the harbor.

Where to Stay
Luxury

• Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel

• Savoy Palace

• The Reserve at Savoy

• Casa Velha do Palheiro

Boutique

• Castanheiro Boutique Hotel

• Three House Hotel

• NEXT by Savoy

Best Restaurants
For a destination of Madeira's size, the dining scene is outstanding.
Fine Dining
Il Gallo d'Oro ★★
Madeira's most celebrated restaurant, showcasing local ingredients with world-class technique.

Best Overall
Armazém do Sal
Creative Madeiran cuisine in a beautifully restored historic building.
​
Also Recommended

• Kampo by Júlio Pereira

• Akua

• Casal da Penha

Armazem do Sal

Best Cocktail Bars
End the evening with a drink at one of Madeira's best bars.

• Three House Rooftop

• Galaxia Sky Bar

• Rei da Poncha

• The Vine Rooftop

Wine Tasting

Suggested 3 Day Madeira Itinerary
Day 1 – Explore Funchal
Morning

• Mercado dos Lavradores

• Old Town

• Painted Doors

Afternoon

• Cable Car

• Monte Palace

• Toboggan Ride

Evening

• Madeira wine tasting

• Dinner at Armazém do Sal

Day 2 – Mountains & Scenic Viewpoints
Morning

• Pico do Arieiro

• Scenic mountain drive

Afternoon

• Santana

• Traditional houses

• Miradouro do Guindaste

Dinner back in Funchal.

Day 3 – West Madeira
Drive Madeira's spectacular western coastline.
Stops include:

• Câmara de Lobos

• Cabo Girão Skywalk

• Ribeira Brava

• Seixal Beach

• Porto Moniz Natural Pools

Return to Funchal for a farewell dinner.

Have More Time?
Day 4 – Ocean & Wine
​Morning
Whale and dolphin watching cruise.
Afternoon
Visit Madeira's famous wine lodges:

• Blandy's

• Barbeito

• Henriques & Henriques

Evening
Cocktails overlooking the Atlantic at Galaxia Sky Bar.

Day 5 – Choose Your Adventure
Relax
Spend the day enjoying your luxury resort, spa, infinity pool, and oceanfront dining.
HikeWalk the spectacular Levada do Caldeirão Verde or explore Ponta de São Lourenço.
AdventureTake a 4x4 jeep tour through Madeira's mountain villages and vineyards.

Travel Tips

• Rent a car or hire a private guide.

• Mountain weather changes quickly, so bring layers.

• Reserve the Pico do Arieiro hike early if transportation is needed.

• Wear hiking shoes with good traction.

• Book whale watching tours several days in advance during peak season.

Explore More Portugal
​Continue your Portugal adventure with our guides to

Six Senses Douro Valley

Douro Guide