4-Day Solo Retreat to Unexplored Madeira: Relaxation & Shopping Adventure

Madeira, Portugal

4 days

Lagoa das 25 fontes
Quinta Grande marina
Traditional house in Santana
North-east coast near Santana
Funchal botanical garden

About Madeira, Portugal

Experience the enchanting beauty of Madeira, Portugal, a subtropical paradise known for its lush landscapes, vibrant gardens, and stunning coastline. Explore the capital city, Funchal, with its charming streets, historic sites, and bustling farmers' markets. Venture into the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a hike or a picnic amidst ancient trees. Savor the local cuisine, particularly the famous Madeira wine and honey cake. Enjoy a thrilling ride on the traditional toboggans from Monte to Funchal. Visit the picturesque fishing villages and indulge in water sports like diving and sailing. Madeira's year-round mild climate makes it a perfect destination for any season. Discover the magic of Madeira, the 'Pearl of the Atlantic'.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Funchal's Market and Gardens

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores, a local market brimming with fresh produce, flowers, and traditional crafts. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Madeiran lunch in a local restaurant. Try the famous 'Espetada' (beef skewers) or 'Bolo do Caco' (garlic bread).

Afternoon

Visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a beautiful garden with an impressive collection of exotic plants and Koi fish. Take the cable car up for stunning views of the city and the sea.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant offering local cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try 'Black Scabbardfish with Banana', a unique Madeiran dish.

Evening

Relax in a local bar with a glass of Madeira wine, a fortified wine produced in the region.

Morning

Take a guided tour of the Levadas, the historic irrigation channels of Madeira. This is a unique way to explore the island's stunning natural beauty.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings of the Levadas.

Afternoon

Visit the Pico do Arieiro, Madeira's third highest peak. The views from here are breathtaking.

Dinner

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant. Madeira is known for its fresh seafood, especially Tuna and Scabbardfish.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the Funchal Marina, a beautiful waterfront area with stunning views of the sea.

Morning

Visit the Santa Maria de Colombo, a replica of Christopher Columbus's flagship. You can even take a short cruise around the coast.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try the 'Milho Frito' (fried cornmeal), a popular side dish in Madeira.

Afternoon

Explore the Old Town of Funchal, with its narrow cobbled streets, historic buildings, and vibrant street art.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant offering traditional Madeiran cuisine. Try the 'Picado', a popular dish made with beef or pork.

Evening

Relax in a local bar with a glass of Poncha, a traditional Madeiran drink made with sugar cane spirit, honey, and lemon.

Morning

Visit the Madeira Botanical Garden, a beautiful garden with a vast collection of tropical and subtropical plants.

Lunch

Enjoy a light lunch at a local café. Try the 'Pastel de Nata', a popular Portuguese custard tart.

Afternoon

Take a scenic drive along the coast to the village of Camara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village that inspired Winston Churchill's paintings.

Dinner

Have your last dinner in Madeira at a restaurant offering local cuisine. Try the 'Lapas', a type of shellfish that is a delicacy in Madeira.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing walk along the Funchal Promenade, a beautiful waterfront area with stunning views of the sea.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Mercado dos Lavradores

1
Mercado dos Lavradores

This lively farmers' market in Funchal offers a wide range of local produce, from fresh fruits and vegetables to fish, meat, and flowers. It's also a great place to try local delicacies and buy souvenirs.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping
Monte Palace Tropical Garden

2
Monte Palace Tropical Garden

This beautiful garden in the hills above Funchal is home to a wide variety of plants, as well as koi ponds, Chinese-style pagodas, and a museum showcasing African and Zimbabwean stone sculptures.

Attractions
Parks
Gardens
Levadas

3
Levadas

A network of irrigation channels that double as scenic walking paths across Madeira.

Attractions
Tours
Cultural Experiences
Pico do Arieiro

4
Pico do Arieiro

Pico do Arieiro is Madeira's third highest peak, offering stunning views over the island. It's a popular spot for hiking, with a challenging trail leading to the highest peak, Pico Ruivo.

Attractions
Landmarks
Sports
Santa Maria de Colombo

5
Santa Maria de Colombo

A replica of Christopher Columbus's flagship for his first voyage across the Atlantic, offering tours around the coast of Madeira.

Attractions
Tours
Cultural Experiences
Old Town of Funchal

6
Old Town of Funchal

The historic heart of Funchal, filled with narrow, winding streets, traditional houses, and charming cafes. It's a great place to explore Madeira's history and culture.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Madeira Botanical Garden

7
Madeira Botanical Garden

The Madeira Botanical Garden boasts a vast collection of tropical and subtropical plants from all over the world. It also offers panoramic views over Funchal.

Attractions
Parks
Gardens
Camara de Lobos

8
Camara de Lobos

A traditional fishing village known for its picturesque bay, local cuisine, and the world's largest concentration of thatched houses.

Attractions
Neighborhoods
Food and Drink

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Espetada

Espetada

A popular dish in Madeira, Espetada is a skewer of beef rubbed in garlic and salt, marinated in Madeira wine, then grilled over wood or charcoal.

Bolo do Caco

A traditional Madeiran bread made with sweet potatoes, Bolo do Caco is typically served with garlic butter and is a staple at local meals.

Poncha

Poncha

Poncha is a traditional alcoholic drink of Madeira, made from aguardente de cana (rum made from sugar cane), honey, sugar, and lemon or orange juice.

Peixe Espada Preto

A unique fish to Madeira, Peixe Espada Preto is a black scabbardfish often served with banana and passion fruit sauce.

Milho Frito

Milho Frito

A popular side dish in Madeira, Milho Frito is deep-fried squares of polenta, often served with Espetada.

Picado

Picado is a popular Madeiran dish, typically made with beef or pork, served in a wine and garlic sauce, often accompanied by fries.

Madeira Wine

Madeira Wine

Madeira Wine is a fortified wine produced in the Madeira Islands, known worldwide for its unique winemaking process and distinctive flavors.

Lapas

Lapas

Lapas, or limpets, are a popular seafood dish in Madeira, typically grilled and served with a garlic and butter sauce.

Pastel de Nata

Pastel de Nata

A famous Portuguese dessert, Pastel de Nata is a creamy egg tart pastry that is also popular in Madeira.

Sandes de Atum

A typical Madeiran sandwich, Sandes de Atum is made with local tuna, often served with a salad.

Broas de Mel

Broas de Mel are traditional Madeiran honey cookies, often enjoyed during Christmas season.

Nikita

Nikita is a popular Madeiran drink made with beer, ice cream, and pineapple, often enjoyed on hot summer days.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Madeira, Portugal, is generally between April and November. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and beach visits. However, if you're interested in the famous Madeira Flower Festival, you should plan your visit in April or May. For wine enthusiasts, the Madeira Wine Festival takes place in late August to early September. Despite this, Madeira enjoys a mild climate year-round, so it's a great destination any time of the year.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 13

Tue

Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day

March 19

Tue

St. Joseph's Day (Santarém)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 16

Tue

Our Lady of Mércoles (Castelo Branco)

April 25

Thu

Liberty Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day (Beja)

May 12

Sun

St. Joana's Day (Aveiro)

May 20

Mon

Azores Day (Azores)

May 22

Wed

Leiria Day (Leiria)

May 23

Thu

Portalegre Day (Portalegre)

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

June 10

Mon

Portugal Day

June 13

Thu

St. Anthony's Day (regional holiday)

June 24

Mon

St. John's Day (regional holiday)

June 29

Sat

St. Peter's Day (Évora)

July 1

Mon

Madeira Day (Madeira)

July 4

Thu

St. Elizabeth's Day (Coimbra)

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

August 20

Tue

Our Lady of Sorrows (Viana do Castelo)

August 22

Thu

Our Lady of Graces (Bragança)

September 7

Sat

Faro Day (Faro)

September 15

Sun

Birth of Bocage (Setúbal)

September 21

Sat

St. Matthew's Day (Viseu)

October 5

Sat

Republic Day

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 27

Wed

Foral of Sancho I (Guarda)

December 1

Sun

Restoration of Independence

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Madeira, especially for those who want the freedom to explore the island at their own pace. There are several car rental companies available at the airport and in the city centre. Remember, driving is on the right side of the road in Portugal.

Madeira's public bus system, known as Horarios do Funchal, services Funchal and its surrounding areas. There are also SAM buses that cover the eastern part of the island and Rodoeste buses for the western part. Buses are reliable and relatively frequent, but routes can be complex and may require transfers.

Taxis are readily available throughout Madeira, especially in Funchal. They are metered, but it's also possible to negotiate a fixed price for longer journeys or tours of the island. Taxis can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from taxi ranks.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Madeira, particularly in Funchal. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group. However, availability can be limited in more remote areas of the island.

The cable car in Funchal is a popular way to get up to the Monte area, offering stunning views over the city and the bay. From Monte, you can also take the traditional toboggan ride down to Funchal.

Many of the attractions in Funchal are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. However, be prepared for steep hills. For hiking enthusiasts, Madeira offers a network of 'levadas' (irrigation channels) with paths alongside, providing access to the island's beautiful and rugged interior.

A ferry service operates between Funchal and the nearby island of Porto Santo. The journey takes about 2.5 hours. This is a great option if you want to explore the beautiful beaches of Porto Santo.

There are numerous tour operators in Madeira offering a variety of tours, from city sightseeing and wine tasting to off-road adventures and whale watching. This can be a convenient way to see the sights, especially if you're short on time or prefer not to drive.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC 0

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Madeira, Portugal as a first time visitor

1

Madeira is an archipelago, consisting of the main island of Madeira, the smaller island of Porto Santo, and two groups of uninhabited islands.

2

The official language is Portuguese, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The currency used in Madeira is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

4

Madeira has a subtropical climate, with mild temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 64°F (18°C) in winter to 75°F (24°C) in summer.

5

Madeira is in the Western European Time Zone (WET, GMT +0; GMT +1 in summer).

6

The island is known for its unique levada walks. Levadas are irrigation channels or aqueducts specific to Madeira.

7

Madeira has a rich culinary scene. Try local dishes like 'espada com banana' (black scabbard fish with banana) or 'bolo do caco' (a traditional sweet potato bread).

8

Madeira wine is a must-try. This fortified wine comes in several varieties, from dry to sweet.

9

Public transportation is reliable and affordable. Buses are the main form of public transport, but taxis and car rentals are also available.

10

Madeira is generally safe for tourists, but like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

11

The island is mountainous, so pack comfortable shoes if you plan on hiking or walking a lot.

12

Madeira has a rich tradition of festivals and events, such as the Madeira Wine Festival and the New Year's fireworks. Check the local calendar for events during your visit.

13

Tipping is customary in Madeira. It's common to leave a 10% tip in restaurants and round up to the nearest Euro for taxi drivers.

14

Madeira has a unique flora and fauna, with many species that are endemic to the island. Respect the environment during your visit.

15

The island has a strong tradition of embroidery and wickerwork. These make for great souvenirs.

16

Madeira has a good healthcare system. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) holders can access necessary healthcare services for free or at a reduced cost.

17

The electrical current in Madeira is 230 volts, 50 Hz, and the plugs are Type F (two round pins). If your devices use different plugs, you'll need an adapter.

18

Tap water is safe to drink in Madeira, but bottled water is widely available if you prefer.

19

Madeira is not a beach destination. While there are a few pebble and black sand beaches, the island is more known for its mountains and nature.

20

The dress code is generally casual, but it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Basic Portuguese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Olá

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adeus

Ad-ey-oosh

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Obrigado

Ob-ree-gah-doo

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Sim

Seem

Agreeing with someone

No

Não

Nown

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Desculpe

Desh-kool-peh

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Desculpe

Desh-kool-peh

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Fala inglês?

Fala in-glesh?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Não entendo

Nown en-ten-doo

Expressing confusion

Where is...?

Onde está...?

Onde es-ta?

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Casa de banho

Kaza de ban-yo

Looking for a bathroom

Help

Ajuda

A-ju-da

In need of assistance

Food

Comida

Ko-mee-da

Looking for food

Water

Água

A-gwa

Looking for water

Beer

Cerveja

Ser-ve-ja

Ordering a beer

Wine

Vinho

Vin-yo

Ordering wine

Check, please

A conta, por favor

A con-ta, por fa-vor

Asking for the bill

How much does it cost?

Quanto custa?

Kwan-to kus-ta?

Asking for the price

Good night

Boa noite

Bo-a no-i-te

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Swimwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sandals

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Headphones

  • Camera and charger

  • Travel adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Laptop and charger (if necessary)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook

  • Snacks

  • Bottled water

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Reusable shopping bag

  • Umbrella or raincoat

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

Weather Conditions

Madeira, Portugal, is known for its mild, subtropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, there are some weather-related tips and guidance that can enhance your visit. The island experiences its warmest weather between May and October, with average temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). This is the best time for beach activities and water sports. However, it's also the busiest tourist season, so be prepared for crowds. From November to April, temperatures slightly drop to an average of 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C). This is the rainy season, especially from November to February, so pack a raincoat or umbrella. Despite the rain, this period is excellent for hiking and exploring the island's lush vegetation and beautiful landscapes. Madeira's mountainous terrain can cause significant temperature variations across the island. The north tends to be cooler and wetter than the south, so pack layers if you plan to explore different areas. The island is also known for its strong winds, especially on the coast. If you're planning on doing any boating or sailing, keep an eye on the weather forecast and sea conditions. Lastly, remember that Madeira is known for its "four seasons in a day" weather. It's not uncommon to experience sun, rain, clouds, and wind all in one day. So, always carry a light jacket or sweater, even if the day starts off warm and sunny. In conclusion, Madeira's weather can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, it's a fantastic destination any time of the year.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

19° / 13°

January is the coldest month in Madeira, but it's still quite mild with temperatures ranging from 13 to 19°C. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.

February

19° / 13°

February is similar to January with temperatures between 13 and 19°C. It's the perfect time for indoor activities like wine tasting and exploring local museums.

March

20° / 14°

In March, temperatures start to rise slightly, ranging from 14 to 20°C. It's a great time for hiking and exploring the beautiful landscapes of Madeira.

April

21° / 15°

April sees temperatures between 15 and 21°C. The island starts to bloom, making it a wonderful time for nature lovers.

May

22° / 16°

May is pleasantly warm with temperatures ranging from 16 to 22°C. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities like whale watching and diving.

June

24° / 18°

June marks the beginning of summer with temperatures between 18 and 24°C. It's a great time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor festivals.

July

26° / 20°

July is one of the hottest months in Madeira with temperatures ranging from 20 to 26°C. It's perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the sea.

August

27° / 21°

August is the peak of summer with temperatures between 21 and 27°C. It's the busiest time of the year, so book your accommodations in advance.

September

27° / 21°

September remains quite warm with temperatures ranging from 21 to 27°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer a less crowded time with still great weather.

October

25° / 19°

October sees temperatures between 19 and 25°C. It's a good time to visit for those who prefer milder weather and fewer tourists.

November

23° / 17°

In November, temperatures start to drop slightly, ranging from 17 to 23°C. It's a good time for hiking and exploring the island's natural beauty.

December

21° / 15°

December is a festive time in Madeira with temperatures between 15 and 21°C. It's a great time to experience the island's Christmas and New Year's celebrations.

Did you know?

Did you know that Madeira, Portugal is known as the 'Island of Eternal Spring' due to its mild climate year-round?

1 of 10

Places near by Madeira, Portugal

Porto Santo Island

Porto Santo Island

Known for its sandy beaches and clear, warm waters. It's a perfect place for relaxation and water sports.

2.5h
74 km / 46.0 mi
How to get there
Desertas Islands

Desertas Islands

A group of three uninhabited islands, known for its wildlife, particularly the endangered monk seals.

3h
25 km / 15.5 mi
How to get there
São Vicente Caves

São Vicente Caves

A series of lava tubes and caves formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.

42m
31 km / 19.3 mi
How to get there
Pico do Arieiro

Pico do Arieiro

Third highest peak in Madeira, offering stunning panoramic views of the island.

50m
27 km / 16.8 mi
How to get there
Levada do Caldeirão Verde

Levada do Caldeirão Verde

A beautiful and adventurous hiking trail through the lush greenery of Madeira.

45m
25 km / 15.5 mi
How to get there
Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz

A charming town known for its beautiful churches and beachfront promenade.

20m
18 km / 11.2 mi
How to get there
Camara de Lobos

Camara de Lobos

A traditional fishing village known for its picturesque bay and Winston Churchill's favorite viewpoint.

15m
9 km / 5.6 mi
How to get there
Curral das Freiras

Curral das Freiras

A small village located in a deep valley, also known as the 'Nuns Valley'.

35m
23 km / 14.3 mi
How to get there
Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz

Known for its natural volcanic rock pools that are filled by the tide with crystal clear water.

1.5h
60 km / 37.3 mi
How to get there
Ponta de São Lourenço

Ponta de São Lourenço

The easternmost point of Madeira, offering a beautiful hike with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

1h
37 km / 23.0 mi
How to get there

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