Visit Madeira: 10 must-sees to do and see in Portugal

Nicknamed "the island of eternal spring", Madeira is a Portuguese jewel floating off the Moroccan coast in the Atlantic Ocean. This unique destination combines spectacular volcanic landscapes, historic levadas and a charming capital where history meets modernity. From Funchal to the dizzying heights of Pico do Arieiro, via the natural pools of Porto Moniz, every corner of the island reveals unexpected treasures. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, passionate about botanical gardens or simply seeking breathtaking panoramas, Madeira will seduce you with its diversity and preserved authenticity.

1. Funchal, the flowery capital of Madeira

Capital of the Madeiran archipelago, Funchal is the ideal starting point to visit Madeira. This port city seduces with its historic center with cobblestone streets, its lush gardens and its authentically Portuguese atmosphere. The Funchal cathedral, dating from 1490, testifies to the city's rich past. Stroll through the picturesque Rua de Santa Maria with its colorful doors, then explore the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores where tropical flavors and exotic flowers mingle.

Download the audio-guided circuit to discover Funchal on foot and independently

Explore the Madeiran capital in complete autonomy with our audio-guided itinerary of Funchal. This 3.7 km route takes you through 25 points of interest in about 1h30, from the cathedral to the marina via the historic districts. The app automatically triggers according to your position and reveals the secrets of this multifaceted capital, between maritime history and artisanal traditions.

2. The levadas, a unique network of hiking canals

Impossible to visit Madeira without taking the famous levadas, this network of more than 2,000 km of irrigation canals transformed into hiking trails. These 16th-century engineering works wind through the UNESCO-classified laurel forest, offering routes accessible to all levels. The Levada do Caldeirão Verde leads you to a spectacular waterfall in the heart of the tropical forest, while the Levada das 25 Fontes reveals multiple waterfalls in a fairy-tale setting. Equip yourself with good walking shoes and a headlamp to cross the tunnels carved into the volcanic rock.

3. Pico do Arieiro and its dizzying panoramas

Culminating at 1,818 meters altitude, Pico do Arieiro is the third highest peak of Madeira and one of the most spectacular. Accessible by car, this rocky peak offers breathtaking panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged relief of the island. At sunrise, the spectacle is particularly striking when clouds slowly disperse in the valleys. For experienced hikers, the PR1 trail connects Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo (1,862 m), the archipelago's highest point, via a 7 km route dotted with tunnels and dizzying aerial passages.

4. Porto Moniz and its volcanic natural pools

On the northwest coast of Madeira, the village of Porto Moniz fascinates with its natural pools sculpted in basaltic lava. These crystalline seawater basins, constantly renewed by Atlantic waves, create a unique spa complex in the world. Entry is paid but remains affordable to enjoy these natural thermal baths equipped with changing rooms and relaxation areas. Don't miss the visit to the small Madeira aquarium installed in fort São João Baptista, which presents the local marine fauna. The coastal road to reach Porto Moniz from Funchal is itself a spectacle, winding between cliffs and ocean panoramas.

5. The tropical garden of Monte Palace

Perched on the heights of Funchal, accessible by cable car, the tropical garden of Monte Palace extends over 7 hectares of botanical wonders. This plant paradise brings together more than 1,000 species of exotic plants from around the world, decorated with artistic sculptures and oriental pavilions. Portuguese azulejos adorn the pathways while ponds populated with koi carp bring a touch of serenity. The viewpoints over the bay of Funchal from the garden terraces are among the most beautiful on the island. The visit naturally continues with the discovery of the palace transformed into an oriental art museum.

6. Cabo Girão, the glass cliff suspended in the void

At 580 meters above the Atlantic Ocean stands one of Europe's highest sea cliffs: Cabo Girão. This transparent glass observation platform, inaugurated in 2012, provides unique sensations for visitors who dare to look under their feet. The panorama encompasses the agricultural terraces in steps (poios) where bananas and vines grow, creating a colorful patchwork suspended between sky and sea. Access is free and a cable car serves the crops below. Located in the municipality of Câmara de Lobos, the first settlement founded in Madeira, this excursion combines perfectly with the discovery of this picturesque fishing village.

7. The waterfalls of Rabaçal in the UNESCO laurel forest

In the heart of the laurel forest classified as UNESCO world heritage, the site of Rabaçal concentrates some of the most beautiful hikes in Madeira. From the plateau of Paul da Serra, several levadas lead to spectacular waterfalls including the famous Risco waterfall, 100 meters high. The route of the Levada das 25 Fontes reveals its name by unveiling multiple waterfalls gushing from the mossy rock. This relict vegetation, vestige of subtropical forests that covered Europe in the Tertiary, creates a unique mystical atmosphere. Bring waterproof clothing as humidity is constant in this rainy area of the island.

8. Whale watching off Madeira

The deep waters surrounding Madeira harbor exceptional marine fauna, making the archipelago one of the best European spots to observe dolphins and whales. About twenty species of cetaceans frequent these temperate waters year-round, from spotted dolphins to majestic pilot whales. Boat excursions depart mainly from Funchal marina and last 2 to 3 hours. Naturalist guides scrupulously respect safety distances and raise awareness about the protection of these marine mammals. The period from April to October offers the best weather conditions, but observations remain possible in all seasons thanks to the subtropical climate of the island.

9. Santana and its traditional triangular houses

On the north coast of Madeira, the village of Santana preserves the traditional architecture of the island with its famous casas de colmo. These triangular houses with colorful walls and thatched roofs represent the Madeiran rural habitat of the 16th century. Some of these authentic dwellings still survive, classified as monuments of public interest. The theme park of Madeira faithfully reconstructs this ancestral way of life while presenting local history and traditions. Santana is part of the municipality classified as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO since 2011, testifying to the richness of its preserved ecosystems between mountain and ocean.

10. The caves of São Vicente, journey to the center of the earth

Formed 400,000 years ago by basaltic lava flows, the caves of São Vicente offer a fascinating journey into the volcanic bowels of Madeira. This network of lava tubes extends over more than 1,000 meters, of which 700 are accessible to the public. The constant temperature of 16°C contrasts with the external heat while geological formations reveal the volcanic history of the archipelago. The adjacent volcanology center completes the visit with a scientific and educational approach to the formation of Atlantic islands. This unique geological attraction addresses all ages and constitutes an ideal alternative in case of bad weather to continue the discovery of Madeiran wonders.

In conclusion, visiting Madeira reveals an exceptional concentrate of Portuguese natural and cultural diversity. Between the historic levadas that wind through the laurel forest, the dizzying panoramas of Pico do Arieiro and the preserved authenticity of Funchal, every day on the island promises unforgettable discoveries. The Madeiran archipelago seduces both hiking enthusiasts and botanical garden lovers or families seeking varied activities. This human-sized destination can easily be covered in a week, allowing to alternate between relaxation in the natural pools of Porto Moniz and exploration of local artisanal traditions. Let yourself be guided by our audio-guided itinerary of the capital to begin your immersion in this Atlantic jewel with a thousand facets.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about Madeira

What is the best period to visit Madeira?

Madeira benefits from a mild subtropical climate year-round. The ideal period extends from April to October to enjoy the most pleasant temperatures (20-25°C) and reduced precipitation. Spring (April-May) is particularly recommended to admire the spectacular flowering of the island. Summer offers the best conditions for swimming with a sea temperature of 23°C.

How many days are needed to visit Madeira?

A week constitutes the ideal duration to visit Madeira without rush. This allows exploring Funchal, doing several hikes on the levadas, discovering Porto Moniz and the main viewpoints. For a more in-depth stay including Porto Santo and more hikes, count 10 to 12 days.

What level is needed to hike on the levadas?

The levadas of Madeira adapt to all levels of hikers. Family routes like the Levada do Caldeirão Verde (13 km round trip) remain accessible with basic physical condition. The trails between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo require good mountain experience. Always equip yourself with non-slip shoes and a headlamp for tunnels.

Can you swim in Madeira?

Absolutely! Madeira offers several swimming options: the volcanic natural pools of Porto Moniz, the spa complexes of Lido in Funchal with seawater pools, and some black pebble beaches like Praia Formosa. Water temperature varies from 18°C in winter to 23°C in summer.

How to get around in Madeira?

Car rental remains the most practical way to explore Madeira in complete freedom, especially to access hiking starting points and isolated viewpoints. Roads are in good condition but sometimes narrow and winding. A public bus network serves the main attractions from Funchal. For the capital, favor walking with our audio-guided circuit that guides you on foot through the must-sees.