5-Day Romance & Adventure Itinerary: Local Experiences in Madeira
Madeira, Portugal
5 days
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'.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Gardens and Toboggan Ride in Monte
Morning
Explore the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a beautiful garden with a wide variety of exotic plants and Koi fish ponds.
Lunch
Have a light lunch at a local café, trying the traditional Bolo do Caco, a flat, circular bread made with sweet potatoes.
Afternoon
Take a thrilling ride on the Monte Toboggan, a traditional wicker sledge ride down the steep streets of Monte.
Dinner
Enjoy a dinner featuring Madeira's traditional dish, Cozido Madeirense, a hearty meat and vegetable stew.
Evening
Experience Fado, a traditional Portuguese music performance, at a local music venue.
Day 3
Farmers' Market and Old Town Exploration in Funchal
Morning
Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores, a vibrant farmers' market with a wide variety of fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts.
Lunch
Try a traditional Madeiran lunch at a local restaurant, featuring Peixe Espada Preto, a local black scabbard fish dish.
Afternoon
Explore the Funchal's Old Town, a charming area with narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and beautiful street art.
Dinner
Have a dinner at a local restaurant, trying the traditional dish, Picado, a popular Madeiran dish made with beef or pork cubes.
Evening
Take a moonlit walk along the Funchal's promenade, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and the sound of the waves.
Day 4
Sea Cliffs and Fishing Village in Câmara de Lobos
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Cabo Girão, the second highest sea cliff in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Lunch
Enjoy a seafood lunch at a local restaurant, featuring fresh catch of the day, paired with a glass of local Poncha, a traditional alcoholic drink.
Afternoon
Visit the picturesque Fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, known for its charming houses and beautiful harbor views.
Dinner
Savor a dinner featuring Espada com Banana, a unique Madeiran dish of black scabbard fish served with banana.
Evening
Enjoy a wine tasting session at a local wine cellar, sampling a variety of Madeira wines.
Day 5
Mountain Peaks and Scenic Drive in Eastern Madeira
Morning
Visit the Pico do Arieiro, Madeira's third highest peak, offering stunning panoramic views of the island.
Lunch
Have a picnic lunch at the peak, enjoying the breathtaking views and the serene environment.
Afternoon
Take a scenic drive along the coast, stopping at various viewpoints to take in the stunning coastal views.
Dinner
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, trying the traditional dish, Milho Frito, a popular side dish made with fried cornmeal.
Evening
End your trip with a leisurely stroll along the Funchal Marina, reflecting on the wonderful experiences you've had in Madeira.
Attractions in Itinerary (9)
1Levada do Caldeirão Verde
A scenic hiking trail that follows a historic irrigation channel. It leads to the stunning Caldeirão Verde waterfall.
2Traditional A-frame houses in Santana
These unique, triangular houses are a symbol of Madeira, featuring thatched roofs that extend down to the ground, making them resemble an 'A' shape. They offer a glimpse into the island's rural past.
3Monte 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.
4Monte Toboggan
A unique and thrilling ride down the steep streets of Monte in traditional wicker toboggans.
5Mercado 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.
6Funchal's Old Town
Funchal's Old Town, also known as 'Zona Velha', is a charming area filled with narrow, winding streets, traditional houses, and a vibrant art scene. It's also home to the oldest street in the city, Santa Maria Street, which dates back to 1430.
7Cabo Girão
Cabo Girão is one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, offering breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and Madeira's southern coast. There's also a glass-bottomed viewing platform for the more adventurous.
8Fishing village of Câmara de Lobos
This picturesque fishing village inspired Winston Churchill's paintings with its charming setting. It's a great place to experience the local lifestyle, enjoy fresh seafood, and try the local drink, 'poncha'.
9Pico 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.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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 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
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 is a fortified wine produced in the Madeira Islands, known worldwide for its unique winemaking process and distinctive flavors.
Lapas
Lapas, or limpets, are a popular seafood dish in Madeira, typically grilled and served with a garlic and butter sauce.
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Car Rental
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.
Public Buses
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
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
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.
Cable Car
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.
Foot
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.
Ferry
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.
Tour Operators
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.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC 0
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
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
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Light jacket or sweater for evenings
Underwear and socks
Pajamas
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Makeup and makeup remover
Hairbrush or comb
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and addresses
Map and guidebook
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone and charger
Headphones
Camera and charger
Memory cards for camera
Portable power bank
Travel adapter for plugs
Laptop and charger (if necessary)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks for travel
Reusable water bottle
Books or e-reader for travel
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Umbrella or raincoat
Ziplock bags for liquids
Laundry bag
Travel-sized laundry detergent
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Madeira, Portugal
Porto Santo Island
Known for its sandy beaches and clear, warm waters. It's a perfect place for relaxation and water sports.
Desertas Islands
A group of three uninhabited islands, known for its wildlife, particularly the endangered monk seals.
São Vicente Caves
A series of lava tubes and caves formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.
Pico do Arieiro
Third highest peak in Madeira, offering stunning panoramic views of the island.
Levada do Caldeirão Verde
A beautiful and adventurous hiking trail through the lush greenery of Madeira.
Santa Cruz
A charming town known for its beautiful churches and beachfront promenade.
Camara de Lobos
A traditional fishing village known for its picturesque bay and Winston Churchill's favorite viewpoint.
Curral das Freiras
A small village located in a deep valley, also known as the 'Nuns Valley'.
Porto Moniz
Known for its natural volcanic rock pools that are filled by the tide with crystal clear water.
Ponta de São Lourenço
The easternmost point of Madeira, offering a beautiful hike with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
