Green cliffs, levada hikes and spring like weather all year round, right in the middle of the Atlantic.
Madeira is a lush island floating in the Atlantic, known as the island of eternal spring. Dramatic cliffs, laurel forests and flower filled gardens meet a relaxed capital, Funchal, where old town streets, markets and wine lodges are waiting to be explored.
Need to know
Best time to visit
All year
How long to stay
6 to 8 days
Getting there
Direct flights to Funchal from many European cities, and connections from the U.S. via Lisbon.
Getting around
A rental car is best, so you can explore the green, steep island at your own pace, or a private driver if you prefer.
Moments we'll plan for you
- Markets and Monte: Taste exotic fruit at the Mercado dos Lavradores, ride the cable car up to Monte's gardens and slide back down in a traditional wicker toboggan.
- Levada walk: A local guide leads you along one of Madeira's famous irrigation channels, through green laurel forest and past waterfalls.
- Peaks and the north coast: Watch the sunrise above the clouds at Pico do Arieiro, then drive to the wild north coast and the natural lava pools of Porto Moniz.
- Ocean and wine: Head out by boat to look for whales and dolphins, and end the day with a Madeira wine tasting in a historic lodge.
What we'll organize for you
You tell us your dreams for Madeira, and we take care of everything in between.
- Flights and your rental car: the best connections and a comfortable car waiting for you when you land.
- Hand picked hotels: the right place and the right room, chosen around you.
- Reservations and tickets: the tables, tours and experiences that sell out, secured before you arrive.
- Support while you travel: one message to us, and we take care of any changes along the way.
The highlights
- Funchal old town: Painted doors, small bars and the colorful farmers market.
- Pico do Arieiro: Sunrise above the clouds on one of the island's highest peaks.
- Porto Moniz: Natural lava rock pools filled by the ocean.
- Cabo Girão: A glass skywalk on one of Europe's highest sea cliffs.
History and culture
- Flower Festival: Every spring, Funchal fills with flower carpets, floats and parades celebrating the island's blooms.
- Madeira wine: This famous fortified wine is aged slowly in warm lodges and tasted in Funchal's historic cellars.
- Monte toboggans: Ride down the hill from Monte in a wicker sled steered by two men in white, a local tradition.
- New Year's fireworks: Madeira's New Year celebration is famous for one of the biggest firework displays in the world.
Food and drink to try
Espetada skewers, Bolo do caco bread, Black scabbardfish, Poncha.
Where to stay
Quinta manor houses
Elegant estates surrounded by gardens, full of character and calm.
Hotels in Funchal
Sea view rooms and infinity pools, close to restaurants and the old town.
Rural retreats in the north
Quiet stays surrounded by green cliffs and dramatic coastline.
Combine it with
- Lisbon: Trams, viewpoints and pastéis de nata in Portugal's capital.
- Porto Santo: A neighboring island with a long golden beach.
Let's design your trip to Madeira
Tell us your dates and wishes in a free 15 minute call, and we take care of everything else.
Book a free call