SEE MORE OF MADEIRA
Lush landscapes. Botanical gardens. Heritage and folklore. Explore this breath-taking, semi-tropical archipelago island!
ACTIVITIES
RESORTS
HOTELS
INSIDER TIPS
WHY VISIT MADEIRA?
Venture into nature
Rainforest trails. Cascading waterfalls. Mountain peaks. The island is a nature-lovers paradise! Whether you’re green-thumbed or appreciate beautiful landscapes, The Madeira Botanical Garden is a must-see, housing over 2,000 exotic plants.
Madeira’s western shores are home to natural sea pools, traditional fishing villages, soaring cliffs, and lush forests. On the east coast, discover traditional villages where you can immerse yourself in the local culture.
Cuisine
With dishes including Maderia cake, traditional wines, fresh tuna with garlic and oregano sauce, and espetada (meat cooked on long skewers over hot coals), there are plenty of local delicacies to tempt your tastebuds! In Funchal, explore the Mercado dos Lavradores, a local market selling fruit and vegetables, flowers and fish.
Every year, the island hosts a celebration called Vindima, an annual grape harvest with shows and music, which typically takes place between August and September.
Year-round sunshine
Fancy soaking up some winter sun? Madeira is well-known for its year-round warm weather. In the winter, temperatures can linger in the early 20’s.
Sit back. Relax. Feel the sunshine on your face! There’s no better place to do this other than Funchal, the island’s capital, which offers breathtaking views of the island. Or head to Seixal beach – with its black sand, framed by mountainous landscapes and unspoilt coastlines.
Meet Elizabete, RCI guide for Madeira.
“Madeira is a truly beautiful holiday destination. A visit to the lighthouse in Ponta do Pargo is a must-see. The lighthouse dates back to the 1920’s and has spectacular views of the island. You can make it a day out too, as there are several nice restaurants nearby.
If you take the cable car from Funchal, explore the historic Monte Palace Tropical Garden. If you’re looking for a hidden gem, venture to the Porto Moniz natural swimming pools in the north – formed by volcanic rock and filled with crystal blue waters.
I’d highly recommend immersing yourself in the local culture and sampling traditional dishes: from Madeira honey cake to sword fish with banana, fried corn and Bolo do Caco (a bread-like cake). Don’t forget to wash it down with a shot of Poncha – a liqueur which comes in different flavours including passionfruit!”
INSIDER TIPS
The best way to explore the island is to hike! Choose from approximately 1,500 miles of tracks on a levada hike. From waterfall to coastal, there’s a trail to suit all fitness levels.
The cable cars in Funchal offer a panoramic view of the island, and will take you to Monte, where you can travel back downhill in a traditional toboggan. Or, why not explore the mountains from the sky and take the cable car from Rocha do Navio?
Madeira Airport (FNC) offers international flights and is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Funchal. Be sure to do your research on public transport options for bus and shuttle services, or you can rent a car if you prefer the flexibility of getting around on your own.
Although the spring and summer months are a popular time to visit, December offers mild climates and spectacular firework displays! With Christmas markets and New Year’s celebrations, join in the festivities for a truly memorable experience.
Every RCI holiday needs an inspirational soundtrack...
Our hand-picked playlist will transport you straight to this holiday destination!
More music memories. More souvenir sounds. More inspiring beats. Follow us on Spotify at RCI Europe and listen to our travel-inspired playlists for free.
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