Explore stunning places to visit in Madeira for an unforgettable trip

If you are a lover of the great outdoors and adventure sports, you are in luck! Most of Madeira’s top attractions are its natural surroundings. Whether you enjoy long blustery walks along the cliffs, sun-soaked beach days, surfing the choppy Atlantic waves or discovering protected landscapes - Madeira needs to be on your travel list. Here are some plans to enjoy when staying in Madeira.

Take in some of the island’s finest countryside and walk along the Levadas; a prime walking territory that was used to distribute water from the mountains to the fields in the 16th century. Walk through lush forests, terraced mountains and breathtaking valleys and admire the diversity of the island. Some great hikes include the Levada do Caldeirão Verde trail, which ends with a waterfall and the Levada das 25 Fontes known as one of the most scenic hikes.

Madeira’s ancient, rare and subtropical Laurisilva forest is thought to be the world’s largest laurel forest and is recognised as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Stroll along the beautiful countryside filled with laurel forests and gaze up at the mountain peaks - or climb up to be rewarded with spectacular views of the coast. 

An experienced and certified guide will help you safely explore the island’s natural heritage through a series of relaxing strolls or more adventurous hikes -  and provide you with a fun and educational experience.

If you are up for a real challenge, one of the best things to see and do in Madeira is the hike between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo. Considered by locals to be the most iconic hike, this route takes you between the island’s two highest points. Expect spectacular views and untouched nature. Just be sure that before attempting this walk that you are well prepared and in good physical form so that you can get the best out of the experience. 

One thing is certain and that is you will never be short of things to see in Madeira. With a buzzing cultural scene, centuries of history and tradition to explore and natural landscapes that bewitch you with their beauty, it is hard to find time to enjoy all the places to visit in Madeira. Saying that, there are some that are a must if you are spending time on the island.

A symbol of renewal and hope, the iconic Flower Festival takes place in Madeira every spring when the flowers begin to blossom. Funchal’s shops, streets and houses are covered with brightly-coloured blooms, while dancers parade through the streets dressed in flower-bedecked costumes. This enchanting festival spreads a fairy tale ambiance all over the city centre, with magic to appeal to flower lovers of all ages. This is certainly the highlight of the island’s events calendar, so why not join the carnival to spice up your spring?

One of the highest cliffs in Europe, Cabo Girão stands at 580 metres above sea level. Yet what makes this one of the best places to visit in Madeira is the glass skywalk that allows visitors to look down from a dizzying height to enjoy views of the coastline and ocean. This cliff is also famous for being a top paragliding and parachuting base as well as en route to the famous Nossa Senhora de Fátima (Our Lady of Fátima) pilgrim site.

If you are looking for a traditional experience that shows you the authentic side of the island, head to the town of Santana. Here you can discover the iconic A-frame houses with thatched roofs that hark back to Madeira’s rural past. 

Dating from 1550, it is possible to see the influence of the Portuguese settlers who came from Braga. Learn about the island’s past and rural heritage at the Santana Museum, the Parque Temático da Madeira, a top attraction in the area. 

If you’re looking for coconuts and white sandy beaches, then Madeira probably isn’t the place for you with its black volcanic sands. However, the island’s beaches are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and ideal temperatures. You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking the best beach to visit as they are all Madeira must-see places.

Ponta do Sol is renowned for being the perfect beach to watch the sunset. This pebble beach is 160 metres long and surrounded by two cliffs that protect it from the wind. The sea is ideal for swimming all year round and a concrete breakwater protects the bay from the strong, crashing waves. If you get peckish during your beach day, there are some small restaurants and cafés close by.

Praia Formosa is without question the major tourist hot spot, being the largest public beach in Madeira. Located just 10 minutes from Funchal, this beach is one of the top places to visit in Madeira. It is also close to where Cristiano Ronaldo grew up, another reason why this beach is popular. This entertainment hub has a children’s playground, a football pitch, restaurants and bars - all overlooking delicious crystalline waters. 

If you are looking for unusual things to do in Madeira, the volcanic lava pools at Porto Moniz are a wonderful way to enjoy island life. Located in the northwest of the island, these rock pools fill with crystalline water offering a fantastic spot for swimming in a truly unique setting. Be sure to pack surf shoes as the ground can be uneven and uncomfortable to walk on.

It’s well worth hopping over to Porto Santo beach for a delicious beach experience, located on Madeira’s sister island, Porto Santo Island, which boasts a blissful and undeveloped stretch with warm golden sands. Admire the volcanic peaks ahead and watch the waves foam against the cliffs and coves. Lay across the 10-kilometre stretch and bask in the island sunshine.