Santa Cruz (Madiera): The Complete Guide

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vitor Oliveira

Santa Cruz spans an area of 81.5 km² and is home to 43,005 residents, organized into five parishes. The village of Santa Cruz, one of the island’s oldest settlements, dates back to the early fifteenth century. Established on June 26, 1515, the municipality attained city status on August 2, 1996.

In terms of architectural heritage, notable structures include the Santa Cruz Parish Church, initiated as a small chapel in 1533 by King Manuel I, featuring a Gothic portal. The Caniço Parish Church, founded in 1536, and the Chapel of Consolation, initially from the sixteenth century but later renovated in the eighteenth and twentieth centuries, showcase intricate woodwork, silver religious artefacts, and various religious imagery. The Santa Isabel Chapel, constructed in the early eighteenth century, boasts a splendid golden altar. Other historical churches include the Mercy Church from the sixteenth century, the Lady of the Conception Church from the early seventeenth century, the “Nossa Senhora dos Remédios” Church from the late seventeenth century, and the Gaula Parish Church, erected in the mid-eighteenth century, housing significant liturgical vessels, including a fifteenth-century processional cross.

Santa Cruz also boasts enchanting beaches, such as Praia das Palmeiras, a rocky shoreline offering a spectacular sunset view for a relaxing day. Machico Beach provides an alternative with imported sand from Morocco for those averse to rocky shores. Prainha Beach, though featuring black sand, is a delightful option for those unbothered by its unique texture.

For panoramic views, the Pico do Facho serves as an excellent vantage point. Weather permitting, and with optimal visibility conditions, one can behold the Island of Porto Santo and catch a glimpse of Madeira’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo.

Visiting Santa Cruz (Madiera) for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Santa Cruz (Madiera) on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Santa Cruz (Madiera) not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Santa Cruz (Madiera) and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Machico (Madeira)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Donar Reiskoffer

Madeira's second town, Machico, is conveniently located just a ten-minute drive east of the airport, nestled in a picturesque natural bay. The town is surrounded by steep, terraced slopes and boasts its own stony beach. Despite its relatively modest size, Machico offers a laid-back atmosphere, a variety of restaurants, and a modest nightlife scene. This makes it an excellent choice…

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Visiting Machico (Madeira)

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A day trip from Santa Cruz (Madiera) offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Santa Cruz (Madiera) provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Monte (Madeira)

The picturesque parish of Monte, known for its lush greenery, is a top destination for tourists, boasting some of Madeira's most beautiful gardens. It has become a favorite among visitors and is renowned for its natural beauty. The cable car connecting Monte to the Zona Velha (Old Town) offers a breathtaking journey over the city of Funchal. This area is…

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Visiting Monte (Madeira)

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Santa Cruz (Madiera) . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Penha d’Águia

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Holger Uwe Schmitt

Boasting incomparable grandeur, Penha d'Águia stands as one of the most significant geological symbols in the archipelago of Madeira. Situated between Porto da Cruz and Faial within the municipality of Machico, this colossal formation is a genuine natural monument. Its sheer size, nearly 600 meters in height, makes it an unmistakable landmark, dominating the landscape and taking center stage in the…

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Visiting Penha d’Águia

Click here to read our blog about Madeira: Sightseeing Tour of the East Coast!

Funchal (Madeira)

The Portuguese archipelago of Madeira, consisting of two inhabited islands, Madeira and Porto Santo, along with the uninhabited islets of Desertas and Selvagens, has a rich history veiled in mystery. Unlike its more prominent counterpart, the Azores archipelago, Madeira is located just 500 miles off the African coast. Discovered by the Portuguese in 1420, these volcanic islands swiftly became crucial…

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Visiting Funchal (Madeira)

Santana (Madeira)

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Holger Uwe Schmitt

The seclusion of Santana has preserved its unique identity and authentic characteristics throughout much of its history. If you have an interest in learning about Madeira's traditions and enjoy hiking, this is an ideal destination for you. The municipality encompasses six parishes, each with its distinct character: Santana, São Jorge, Arco de São Jorge, Faial, Ilha, and São Roque do…

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Visiting Santana (Madeira)

Ribeira Brava (Madeira)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / muffinn

This well-known tourist spot boasts a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, particularly close to the beach area. You can take in the scenic views from a terrace or stroll along the promenade. For those interested in learning about the archipelago, the Ethnographic Museum of Madeira is a must-visit, showcasing a collection of ethnographic artifacts that reflect the region's economic,…

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Visiting Ribeira Brava (Madeira)

Calheta (Madeira)

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Xaviernunes

Calheta is a charming village nestled in a steep valley just above Madeira's coast. It is the principal town of the sun-drenched, fertile southwestern coast of the island. Constructed in a bay at the stream's mouth, Calheta enjoys constant sunshine, and its modern artificial sand beach and marina have transformed it into a leisure destination. As one of Madeira's oldest…

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Visiting Calheta (Madeira)

Porto Moniz (Madeira)

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Bjørn Christian Tørrissen

A visit to Porto Moniz, located on the northwest tip of the Madeira archipelago, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and relaxing leisure activities, making it a standout destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Upon arriving in Porto Moniz, visitors are immediately struck by the dramatic landscape. The town is famed for its rugged coastlines and towering…

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Visiting Porto Moniz (Madeira)