Madeira Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Planning a trip to Madeira? This complete travel guide covers getting there, getting around, what to do, where to eat, and practical tips for first-time visitors.
Madeira Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Madeira is a Portuguese island in the North Atlantic, approximately 1,000 kilometres southwest of Lisbon and 520 kilometres west of the Moroccan coast. It is an autonomous region of Portugal, which means it uses the euro, follows EU regulations, and is accessible to EU citizens without a passport. For visitors from outside the EU, standard Schengen visa rules apply.
The island is known for its dramatic volcanic landscape, year-round mild climate, levada walking network, and distinctive cuisine. It is a year-round destination, with the majority of visitors arriving between October and April to escape colder European winters.
Getting to Madeira
By Air
Madeira International Airport (Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, IATA: FNC) is located near Funchal on the south coast. It is served by direct flights from most major European cities, including London, Lisbon, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Paris, and Madrid. TAP Air Portugal, easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, and TUI all operate routes to Madeira. Flight time from London is approximately 3.5 hours; from Lisbon, approximately 1.5 hours.
The airport runway extends over the sea on concrete pillars and is considered one of the most challenging approaches in Europe. Landing in Madeira is a memorable experience.
By Sea
Funchal is a major cruise ship port, and many visitors arrive on cruise itineraries that include Madeira as a port of call. The Porto Santo ferry connects Madeira to the smaller island of Porto Santo in approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Getting Around Madeira
Car Rental
Renting a car is the most practical way to explore Madeira. The island's road network is extensive, with a system of expressways (Via Rápida) connecting the main towns and tunnels cutting through the mountains. Many of the island's most interesting destinations — levada trailheads, viewpoints, mountain villages — are not accessible by public transport.
GooRentalCars is a local car rental comparison platform for Madeira, offering rates from multiple suppliers at Funchal Airport and in the city. Booking in advance is recommended during peak season.
Public Transport
Funchal has an extensive bus network operated by Horários do Funchal. Buses connect the city centre with most residential areas and some tourist destinations. The network does not cover the mountain interior or the north coast comprehensively.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis are readily available in Funchal and can be booked for day trips around the island. Uber operates in Funchal. Tuk-tuk tours are available in the city centre and offer a popular way to explore the Old Town.
Cable Cars
The Funchal Cable Car connects the seafront to Monte, a hilltop suburb above the city, in approximately 15 minutes. From Monte, the famous Monte Toboggan ride (carro de cesto) descends through the streets back towards Funchal in traditional wicker sledges pushed by carreiros.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Madeira has a subtropical climate with mild temperatures year-round. The south coast, where Funchal is located, is sheltered from the prevailing northerly winds and receives more sunshine than the north. Average temperatures range from approximately 17°C in January to 25°C in August.
The island can be visited at any time of year. The main tourist season runs from October to April, when visitors from northern Europe seek warmer weather. Summer (June to September) is popular for beach holidays and boat tours. The New Year period is particularly special — Madeira's fireworks display over Funchal Bay is one of the largest in the world and is listed in the Guinness World Records.
What to Do in Madeira
Boat Tours
Madeira's coastline is best explored from the sea. Madeira Charter offers private boat tours from Funchal Marina, from 2.5-hour coastal tours to full-day experiences. Whale and dolphin watching tours depart from Funchal and Calheta.
Levada Walks
The levada network offers over 1,350 kilometres of walking paths through the island's interior. The most popular routes include the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, the Levada das 25 Fontes, and the ridge walk from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo.
Funchal Old Town
The Zona Velha (Old Town) of Funchal is the historic heart of the city, with painted door art, traditional restaurants, and bars along the seafront. The Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market) is a highlight for food lovers.
Porto Moniz Natural Pools
The natural lava pools at Porto Moniz on the northwest coast are one of Madeira's most photographed attractions. The pools are formed by volcanic rock and filled by the Atlantic Ocean.
Where to Eat
Madeiran cuisine is based on fresh fish, meat on a skewer (espetada), and local vegetables. The island's most famous dishes include espada (black scabbardfish), lapas (limpets grilled with butter and garlic), and bolo do caco (a flat bread made with sweet potato).
In Funchal, the Zona Velha has a concentration of traditional restaurants. The Abrigo do Poiso, located in the mountains above Funchal on the road to Pico do Areeiro, is known for its traditional mountain cuisine and espetada.
Practical Information
Currency: Euro (€) | Language: Portuguese | Electricity: 230V, Type F plugs | Emergency: 112 | Time zone: WET/WEST (UTC/UTC+1) — one hour behind mainland Portugal
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Madeira?
Madeira is part of Portugal and the Schengen Area. EU citizens do not need a visa. Non-EU citizens should check the Schengen visa requirements for their nationality.
Is Madeira safe?
Madeira is considered one of the safest destinations in Europe. Crime rates are low and the island is welcoming to tourists.
What language is spoken in Madeira?
Portuguese is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
What is the best way to get around Madeira?
Renting a car is the most practical option for exploring the island. Public transport is available in Funchal but limited in the mountain interior.
Can I drink the tap water in Madeira?
Yes. Tap water in Madeira is safe to drink.
What currency is used in Madeira?
The euro (€). ATMs are widely available in Funchal and main towns.