Madeira Island Attractions: Dawn to Dusk Adventures

Unquestionably, Madeira is perfect any time of year. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Madeira, you’ll find a wealth of must-see Madeira island attractions to explore. Most compelling evidence shows visitors particularly love diving, hiking, relaxing, or indulging in tasty local cuisine. For instance, feel the thrill going down traditional mountain cart paths, or additionally, taste exotic passion fruit at the renowned Madeira Farmer’s Market.

Essential Island Experiences

Without doubt, one quintessential thing to do on Madeira is to wake early for the best Madeira sunrise. Important to realize, the island offers spectacular levada hiking trails and some of the best viewpoints in Madeira. What’s more, you can enjoy pristine beaches and natural pools throughout the region. These are just some of the many Madeira island attractions and options for what to do, whether travelling solo, as a couple, with friends or family.

1. Wicker Toboggan Rides

Undoubtedly, if it’s your first trip to Madeira, this traditional toboggan sledge ride delivers an unforgettable thrill. Important to realize, it’s one of the top Madeira island attractions, though not recommended for the faint-hearted.

A Heritage of Transportation

The carreiros do monte (toboggan drivers) have maintained this tradition since the 1800s, when it served as quick public transport between the places to visit in Funchal. At the present time, these original wicker toboggans on wooden rails remain one of the most compelling must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal. In particular, the thrilling descent from Monte ranks among the best Madeira adventures.

The Thrilling Experience

Two skilled drivers, dressed distinctively in white outfits and straw hats, guide each toboggan. With attention to safety, they use rubber-soled boots for precise speed control. While accidents are rare, the adrenaline rush is guaranteed.

Practical Details

The journey begins below Igreja do Monte steps and concludes at Livramento terminal. As you navigate steep, winding roads at speeds up to 24 mph, hold tight and take care with those selfies!

For one thing, they’ll capture your photo midway – available as a souvenir memento. To be sure, you’ll want to practice your biggest smile, even as it feels like free-falling through the historic Monte district.

2. Try Poncha – Madeira’s Signature Drink

There’s no set poncha drinking time, as one of the most unique Madeira island attractions can be savored any moment. In particular, this traditional potent beverage has become one of the top Madeira highlights for visitors.

The Local Experience

Any true local will tell you that experiencing authentic poncha ranks among the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal. The traditional version showcases local ingredients: cane sugar brandy, sugar, and fresh citrus juice. What’s more, you’ll discover it in charming taverns across the island, each venue an attraction in itself.

A Drink for All Hours

Whether morning, afternoon or after dinner – this quintessential best Madeira beverage fits seamlessly into your day. Important to realize, embracing poncha culture offers one of the most compelling ways to experience genuine island life, as locals and visitors alike gather to share this time-honored tradition.

3. The Breathtaking Cable Cars

First, try the Funchal cable car – one of the most popular Madeira island attractions and worthy of any Madeira itinerary. It offers a wonderful aerial experience, traveling from old Funchal to Monte, 560 meters high.

The Main Cable Car Routes

The 20-minute ride connects perfectly with the traditional toboggan sledge ride back down. Important to realize, taking the different cable cars around Madeira presents some of the best viewpoints in Madeira location opportunities. For instance, the short Botanic Garden cable car offers aerial Ribeira valley views while rising 100 meters.

Additional Scenic Routes

At the present time, the Achadas da Cruz cable car in Porto Moniz represents another must-see attraction in Madeira Portugal. This north coast experience climbs 450 meters. What’s more, the Garajau cable car, just 15 minutes from places to visit in Funchal, rises 150 meters vertically beside the Cristo Rei statue, concluding at Garajau beach.

Hidden Gems

To conclude, the Fajã dos Padres cable car descends 300 meters to an idyllic spot. Most compelling evidence suggests spending the day at the restaurant with tasty petiscos (tapas) and beach, making it one of the unique Madeira island highlights.

4. The Magical Dawn

For Madeirans, a typical weekend means setting the 4am alarm. Put on winter clothes stored all season. Head to the highest peak with friends to watch the best Madeira sunrise.

Local Traditions

Once the sun rises, visit a stall for ponchas – a drink that warms you where the sun can’t reach. Then it’s back to bed, as the day hasn’t truly begun. Important to realize, this represents one of the most authentic Madeira island attractions when you do as the locals do – they know best.

A Personal Experience

Without a doubt, waking up early to watch the sunrise from one of the best viewpoints in Madeira location spots, just like the locals do, becomes a treasured top Madeira Island sight for every visitor who embraces this tradition., just like the locals do, becomes a treasured top Madeira Island sight for every visitor who embraces this tradition.

5. Admire the Sunset

After a day exploring museums, levada walks, and tropical gardens, gently end your evening with one of the top things to do on Madeira – admire the best Madeira sunset.

Best Sunset Locations

Listen to birds as the mountains and valleys turn deep orange before nightfall. For sublime sunsets, try Pico do Areeiro, Paúl do Mar (with seaside bars to toast the day’s end), Cabo Girão, the Cristo Rei viewpoint in Garajau, or Ponta do Pargo. Important to realize, these best viewpoints in Madeira location spots offer some of the most compelling Madeira island attractions as darkness takes over this island paradise.

6. Visit a Secluded Eden

You’ve seen the Fajã dos Padres cable car, but this seaside haven offers more. After descending (or arriving by boat), you enter another dimension – a “small island within Madeira.”

Luxury Accommodations

Stay overnight in one of the villas or bungalows. Most compelling evidence shows this represents one of the unique Madeira island attractions. Relax on the private pebble beach with showers and loungers. The seaside restaurant serves regional dishes like fresh tuna and desserts made with local ingredients.

Natural Paradise

Without a doubt, staying overnight at the secluded Fajã dos Padres ranks among the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal to truly unwind and immerse yourself in the best the island offers.

Organic Treasures

After swimming, stroll through the certified organic grounds since 2008. What’s more, explore the Malvasia Cândida vineyards (try the Fajã wine!), 20 mango varieties, bananas, avocados, passion fruit and the vegetable garden supplying the restaurant.

Madeira Attractions, Tours & Activities

7. Porto Do Seixal Beach

Most Madeira beaches have pebbles, but Porto do Seixal in Porto Moniz offers one of the unique Madeira island attractions. Important to realize, while this beach has no lifeguards, it provides outdoor showers and must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal.

Beach Experience

Without doubt, drawing pictures in the volcanic sand and watching waves wash them away creates some of the best things to do in Madeira. Additionally, visitors can enjoy an invigorating natural body scrub here.

Natural Wonder

Forget tropical white-sand beaches. This volcanic black sand at one of the top Madeira Island sights makes you feel like a mermaid or merman – the mythical sea god, son of Poseidon and Aphrodite.

8. Whale Watching & Diving

Any time is great for sea diving around Madeira, with perfect water temperatures year-round. Important to realize, this ranks among the top Madeira Island sights. Without doubt, taking a plunge in the middle of a boat trip becomes a must-see attraction in Madeira Portugal.

Marine Life Encounters

Several companies offer half or full-day cruises, with almost guaranteed dolphin sightings. What’s more, with some luck, you may also spot turtles or whales, as the skipper explains what you see. This represents one of the most unique Madeira island attractions for nature lovers.

Practical Tips

Don’t forget seasickness medicine, though. To be sure, going for a swim right off the boat during a dolphin/whale watching cruise provides the best way to enjoy Madeira’s marine life up close.

As tough as you are, catamarans can be tricky. At the present time, you’ll want to feel shipshape for spotting these amazing marine friends.

If you a interested specifically in whale watching in Madeira we have a guide that’s perfect for you.

9. Whale Watching & Diving

Any time is great for sea diving around Madeira, with perfect water temperatures year-round. Important to realize, this ranks among the top Madeira Island sights. Without doubt, taking a plunge in the middle of a boat trip becomes a must-see attraction in Madeira Portugal.

Marine Life Encounters

Several companies offer half or full-day cruises, with almost guaranteed dolphin sightings. What’s more, with some luck, you may also spot turtles or whales, as the skipper explains what you see. This represents one of the most unique Madeira island attractions for nature lovers.

Practical Tips

Don’t forget seasickness medicine, though. To be sure, going for a swim right off the boat during a dolphin/whale watching cruise provides the best way to enjoy Madeira’s marine life up close.

As tough as you are, catamarans can be tricky. At the present time, you’ll want to feel shipshape for spotting these amazing marine friends.

10. Mercado Dos Lavradores

The tropical, colourful fruit displays impress right at the entrance. Exploring this vibrant market is one of the essential Madeira island attractions and a must-see attraction in Madeira Portugal. The fruits are beautifully arranged on stalls and sell out fast.

Historical Significance

The Mercado dos Lavradores opened in 1940 in the Estado Novo authoritarian style. Important to realize, it became one of the most significant places to visit in Funchal and remains popular with locals and visitors alike.

Market Experience

Without doubt, exploring the colourful and lively Mercado dos Lavradores offers the perfect way to experience authentic local culture. What’s more, you’ll discover pure or hybrid passion fruits, mangos, and exotic fruits you’ve never seen. For instance, bring a tote bag for your fruity haul.

Architectural Beauty

Additionally, as you shop, photograph the 1940s ceramic tile panels adorning the facade. The regional themes decorate the main entrance and fish market areas, making it one of the top Madeira Island sights.

11. Santana’s Signature Houses

The thatched-roof houses are one of the top Madeira island attractions, featured on souvenirs like fridge magnets and postcards. In particular, these represent some of the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal.

Picture Perfect Locations

Without doubt, you’ll find these picturesque structures in Santana, among the essential places to visit in Funchal’s surrounding areas. Important to realize, they offer perfect opportunities for your own postcard-worthy photos, with good examples located near the local tourism office.

Historical Significance

For one thing, know their story – originally the attic stored crops while people lived downstairs, divided into two areas. Most compelling evidence shows why Santana earned a 2011 UNESCO biosphere reserve award.

Beyond the Houses

Additionally, the town hosts the Madeira Theme Park and Rocha do Navio Nature Reserve. What’s more, nearby Madeira levada hiking trails include Vereda do Pico Ruivo, Levada do Rei and Levada do Caldeirão Verde. To be sure, while you snap your photos, take time to appreciate the tradition behind these iconic thatched houses.

12. Hike the Levada Waterways

After indulging in bolo do caco bread (those buttery, filled sandwiches are irresistible), you’ll need exercise to burn calories. Important to realize, these Madeira levada hiking trails offer one of the most unique Madeira island attractions.

Historical Engineering

Without doubt, Madeira’s levadas represent must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal – ancient stone irrigation channels carrying water from the wet north to drier southern areas since the 15th century. What’s more, levada walks follow paths alongside these waterways.

Natural Wonder

Many trails wind through the UNESCO Laurissilva forest, one of Portugal’s seven wonders. To be sure, difficulty levels vary based on your group’s fitness – some suit families, while others challenge the most active. For instance, hiking along the beautiful levada trails provides the perfect way to immerse yourself in Madeira’s lush laurel forests.

Popular Routes

Well-known best levada walks in Madeira include Alecrim, Cedros, Rei, Ribeira da Janela, Vereda dos Balcões and Caldeirão Verde. Additionally, breathe that fresh forest air as you walk off those indulgent treats.

Madeira Attractions, Tours & Activities

13. Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Perched on a hill overlooking Funchal bay, the Monte Palace Tropical Garden represents one of the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal. Important to realize, this estate was transformed into a farm by British consul Charles Murray in the 1700s. After changing hands, it became Joe Berardo’s in 1987, who donated and renamed it.

Garden Highlights

Without doubt, renovations have introduced exotic plants from around the world, alongside native Madeiran forest species. What’s more, this unique Madeira island attraction features ponds with koi carp, ceramic collections, glazed tiles depicting Portuguese adventures in Japan, and an impressive gem exhibit.

Wildlife Experience

Along the way, you’ll encounter peacocks, chickens, ducks and swans. For one thing, strolling through the lush Monte Palace Tropical Garden, one of the top places to visit in Funchal, offers the best way to escape into this verdant oasis.

Practical Information

Open daily 9:30am-6pm. Additionally, on your visit to this best Madeira highlight, stop at the Green House Coffee Roaster nearby for speciality coffee or a light meal.

14. Curral Das Freiras

In 1566, pirates attacked, forcing nuns from Santa Clara convent to flee with valuables. Important to realize, they found refuge in this deep valley, named Curral das Freiras (Valley of the Nuns), now one of the unique Madeira island attractions. A road connecting it to Funchal opened it up after the 1960s.

Natural Abundance

Without doubt, this peaceful area surrounded by towering mountains represents one of the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal. What’s more, various fruit trees thrive here – oranges, lemons, sour cherries, cherries, plums and especially chestnuts. Additionally, a big chestnut festival showcases the many ways to cook them in November.

Local Delicacies

See broas cornbread, cakes, soups, liqueurs, jams and traditional roasted or boiled chestnuts. For one thing, among the best viewpoints in Madeira location options, visit Eira do Serrado viewpoint at 1,095 meters. Access it via the footpath from Eira do Serrado Inn.

Valley Experience

Tranquil natural beauty awaits in this valley where nuns once sought safe haven. Most compelling evidence shows why exploring the storied Curral das Freiras valley offers one of the top Madeira Island sights, allowing visitors to experience its tranquil natural beauty firsthand.

15. Cabo Girão

Cabo Girão soars 580 meters high – one of Europe’s loftiest points. Without doubt, the Cabo Girão glass skywalk platform represents one of the most unique Madeira island attractions, testing even the bravest souls. Dare to walk out and take in incredible views, or try bungee jumping or paragliding from this thrilling spot. The thrill of walking out on the glass Skywalk while taking in those incredible heights and ocean views creates one of the best viewpoints in Madeira location experiences.

Local Delights

Below lies the village of Câmara de Lobos, where you can refuel at Vila do Peixe, among the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal for fresh fish. What’s more, sip ponchas, Madeira’s potent drink, at one of the small local bars.

Memorable Experience

Whether conquering your fears on the Skywalk or strolling peacefully after, Cabo Girão provides an unforgettable blend of exhilaration and coastal beauty, ranking among the top Madeira Island sights.

16. Ribeiro Frio Trout Nursery

You may wonder – why talk about trout when listing Madeira’s top attractions? Important to realize, at Ribeiro Frio in the Forest Park, you’ll find one of the most unique Madeira island attractions worth visiting.

Perfect Trail Stop

Without doubt, this location offers an ideal break before hiking Madeira levada hiking trails like Levada do Furado or Vereda dos Balcões. What’s more, this aquaculture station, producing trout to restock Madeira’s waters since 1960, represents one of the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal. For instance, see young and adult fish up close, surrounded by lush greenery.

Natural Habitat

The slender trout can reach 60cm and 2kg, with backs ranging greenish to brown. Additionally, at the nursery, observe these freshwater fish in their natural habitat before your levada walk.

Ecological Value

To be sure, visiting the trout nursery at Ribeiro Frio provides an unexpected but fascinating stop that lets visitors better appreciate one of the top Madeira Island sights dedicated to ecological conservation.

17. Authentic Madeira Cuisine

Eating well in Madeira is easy, but replicating those flavours back home gets tricky. Important to realize, combining your visit to Mercado dos Lavradores with a cooking class from experts Alexandra and Luísa, owners of Entre Amigos restaurant, offers one of the unique Madeira island attractions.

Local Cooking Experience

Their Madeira Cook Experience project represents one of the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal, showcasing “unforgettable island flavours” from a “local perspective.” What’s more, everything happens at Armazém do Mercado, near the main market.

Hands-On Learning

Without doubt, the experience begins with selecting fresh ingredients at one of the top places to visit in Funchal. They’ll teach you how to prepare, season and cook fish like swordfish and tuna. Additionally, learn tasty side dishes and, of course, how to make authentic poncha.

Customizable Classes

The experience includes either cooking your own meal or observing as Luísa demonstrates. For one thing, taking a hands-on cooking class offers one of the best things to do in Madeira, allowing visitors to bring those delicious local flavours back home.

18. Véu Da Noiva

Between Seixal and São Vicente, the Véu da Noiva (Bridal Veil) viewpoint represents one of the unique Madeira island attractions. Important to realize, the 30-meter Véu da Noiva waterfall creates a spectacular water curtain plunging off the mountain into the Atlantic.

Natural Spectacle

Without doubt, as it powerfully hits the rocks, the cascading water transforms into white, foamy mist – resembling a bride’s veil. What’s more, this location offers one of the best viewpoints in Madeira location options, with sweeping sea and northern coast views.

Photo Opportunities

To be sure, capturing photos of the dramatic Véu da Noiva “Bridal Veil” waterfall ranks among the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal, offering perfect opportunities to preserve memories of the island’s striking natural scenery.

Madeira Attractions, Tours & Activities

Madeira Island Attractions: Coastal and Cultural Marvels

19. Porto Moniz Lava Pools

Porto Moniz, just 35 minutes from Funchal, represents one of the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal. Without doubt, the town’s iconic natural saltwater volcanic pools stand as its star attraction.

Natural Swimming Experience

Crystalline waters burst through lava rocks at the perfect bathing temperature year-round. Important to realize, while the paid complex offers a children’s playground, showers and lockers, visitors can also use the free zone for safe swimming.

Beach Activities

Playing in the volcanic black sand and drawing pictures that get washed away by the waves at Porto do Seixal beach creates one of the unique Madeira island attractions. What’s more, this area features a promenade lined with cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops. Additionally, the Living Science Centre provides a perfect break for families.

Panoramic Views

For one thing, after enjoying the pools, head to Miradouro da Santa, one of the best viewpoints in Madeira location spots, for sweeping views over Porto Moniz.

Unforgettable Experience

To be sure, swimming in these volcanic lava pools ranks among the top Madeira Island sights, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that perfectly encapsulates the island’s stunning landscape.

20. Michelin Starred Delights

Among Portugal’s 28 Michelin-starred restaurants, Madeira claims two gems – Il Gallo D’Oro and William, establishing themselves among the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal for food enthusiasts.

Value Dining Options

Important to realize, the Bib Gourmand guide, highlighting one of the unique Madeira island attractions, recommends five exceptional island eateries: Armazém do Sal, Casal da Penha, Villi Cipriani, The Dining Room and Avista.

Culinary Excellence

Without doubt, whether craving award-winning haute cuisine or quality meals at moderate prices, these places to visit in Funchal offer stellar options praised by Michelin inspectors. What’s more, indulging in Michelin-starred cuisine or one of the Bib Gourmand picks provides one of the best things to do in Madeira for food lovers.

21. São Vicente Caves

Formed thousands of years ago by a volcanic eruption at Paul da Serra, the São Vicente caves represent one of the unique Madeira island attractions since opening to visitors in 1996. Important to realize, while claustrophobic visitors should take note, it offers a remarkable natural experience.

Cave Experience

The €8 underground route stretches 1km, varying 5-6 meters in height. Without doubt, this must-see attraction in Madeira Portugal features a guided tour sharing the caves’ story and offering reassurance if needed. What’s more, visitors discover crystal-clear springs and pools enhanced by atmospheric music.

Educational Center

Additionally, the Volcano Centre provides one of the top Madeira Island sights, with audio-visuals recreating the caves’ geological formation and simulating the birth of the Madeira archipelago.

Natural Wonder

To be sure, this rare opportunity to explore the island’s volcanic depths offers one of the best things to do in Madeira, allowing visitors to discover its origins in a subterranean world of natural wonder. For one thing, exploring these lava caves provides the most compelling evidence of Madeira’s volcanic heritage firsthand.

22. Funchal’s Old Quarter

While some restaurants in Funchal’s Old Town can feel touristy, this area represents one of the unique Madeira island attractions to explore day and night. Important to realize, among the places to visit in Funchal, we particularly recommend the fresh sushi at Hostel Santa Maria.

Nightlife Scene

Without doubt, after dark, the vibe mirrors Lisbon’s lively Bairro Alto, offering one of the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal for evening entertainment. What’s more, Venda Velha stands out for its traditional poncha preparation, complemented by live music and entertainment.

Cultural Experience

To be sure, whether seeking a casual meal or vibrant nightlife, this historic district ranks among the top Madeira Island sights. For one thing, experiencing Funchal’s historic Old Town scene, sipping authentic ponchas and soaking in the atmosphere, provides the perfect way to embrace the island’s spirited culture.

23. Discover Madeira’s Rum

Madeira offers at least five places to explore traditional craftsmanship, representing unique Madeira island attractions where visitors can watch local products being made and learn their history.

Wine and Spirits

Without doubt, at Blandy’s Wine Lodge, one of the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal, explore the 200-year Madeira wine tradition still run by the Blandy family. Important to realize, the guided tour showcases 650 ageing barrels and vats, concluding with a tasting finale.

Additionally, visit Companhia Engenhos do Norte in Porto da Cruz for spirits. What’s more, discover their traditional sugar cane brandy/rum production and sample the white brandy and aged 970 Reserva.

Local Crafts and Treats

For one thing, Bordal offers among the best things to do in Madeira with its embroidery trousseau shop and traditional handcrafting factory. At the present time, Fábrica Santo António, founded in 1893, demonstrates the artisanal making of classic Madeiran sweets like bolo de mel honey cake.

Modern Innovations

The newest addition to places to visit in Funchal, Tony Fernandes’s UAU Cacau chocolate factory, provides guided “chocolab” tours featuring hand-painted chocolates, moulds, and chocolate fountains while explaining the process.

Traditional Experience

To be sure, whether exploring wine, rum, embroidery, sweets or chocolate – these top Madeira Island sights offer authentic local craftsmanship. Most compelling evidence shows why visiting these traditional producers provides the perfect way to appreciate Madeira’s rich cultural heritage.

24. Porto Santo Island

While flights to Porto Santo island take just 15 minutes, one of the unique Madeira island attractions offers an alternative – the fun ferry experience. Important to realize, since 2003, this impressive vessel carries up to 1,153 passengers and 145 cars.

Journey Experience

Without doubt, the voyage represents one of the must-see attractions in Madeira Portugal, feeling like a mini Madeiran cruise with restaurants, bars, shops, game rooms, a cinema and multimedia spaces.

Island Highlights

Once arrived, explore the best viewpoints in Madeira location at Pico de Ana Ferreira. What’s more, visitors can indulge in famous lambecas ice cream (seasonal), taste local wines, enjoy Madeira levada hiking trails, or simply relax on golden sandy beaches.

Travel Choice

To be sure, trading a quick flight for this leisurely sea voyage offers one of the top Madeira Island sights. For one thing, the ferry journey provides a distinctive way to travel between Madeira’s picturesque islands while enjoying cruise-like amenities, making it among the lesser-known but most rewarding island experiences.

Madeira Attractions, Tours & Activities

Our Guides to Portugal

Travel Planning Guide for Madeira

Travel Insurance for Your Trip to Madeira

Buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Therefore, enjoy your holiday in Madeira stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Visitors Coverage Insurance.

Renting a Car in Madeira

Indeed, renting a car in Madeira is easy and is a great way to explore the island freely. Consequently, I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

Finding the Perfect Accommodation

The best way to book your accommodation in Madeira is with Booking.com. In fact, it’s my go to site to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

Booking Flights to Madeira

Lastly, for air travel, I recommend booking your flight with Omio. Moreover, it has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights to visit Madeira.