Complete Guide to Madeira (2025)

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 agricultural hubs, cultivating a diverse array of fruits, wheat, and sugar cane. This discovery marked the beginning of Madeira’s historical significance and its role in contributing to Portugal’s economic and agricultural endeavors.

Situated on a substantial incline overlooking the Atlantic and designed in the form of a natural amphitheater, Funchal stands as the primary hub for tourism, commerce, and culture in Madeira. Attaining city status on August 21, 1508, through the royal charter of King Manuel I, the capital city of this archipelago boasts a rich history spanning centuries, marked by enduring traditions, cultural richness, and a cosmopolitan European influence. Despite its evolution, Funchal maintains a harmonious relationship with the lush nature that envelops it.

The town derives its name from the aromatic wild herb, historically referred to as fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare), which thrived abundantly during its founding. Over time, essential regional products such as sugar and wine, symbolized in the municipal coat of arms and continuing as emblematic Madeiran commodities, played a pivotal role in Funchal’s economic prosperity, establishing it as a pivotal trade centre in the heart of the Atlantic.

Encompassing an area of 76.15 km², the municipality consists of ten parishes: Imaculado Coração de Maria, Monte, Santa Luzia, Santa Maria Maior, Santo António, São Gonçalo, São Martinho, São Pedro, São Roque, and Sé. Throughout this expansive territory, one can encounter a wealth of historical monuments, museums, recreational spaces, lush gardens, and scenic viewpoints. Embark on a journey of exploration in Funchal!

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.

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 for a holiday base, providing a tranquil setting for exploration. Whether for an extended vacation or a brief stopover of a night or two, Machico offers a welcoming and relaxed environment for visitors.

The focal point of the town is Largo Dr. António Jardim d’Oliveira, a cobbled main square where taxi drivers converse by their yellow cars, shaded by tall oak trees. The northern section of the square is dominated by the fifteenth-century Igreja Matriz, commissioned by Tristão Vaz Teixeira’s wife, Branco. Its most notable feature is an elegantly arched Manueline door adorned with three small marble columns.

To the east of the narrow Ribeira do Machico lies an area of old fishermen’s houses known as Banda de Alén. Centered on the peaceful Largo Senhor dos Milagres, this quiet square hosts elderly men playing cards beneath shady trees. On the southern side of the square stands the unassuming, whitewashed Capela dos Milagres (Chapel of Miracles). Erected in 1815, it replaced an earlier chapel believed to have been built on the site where Anne d’Arfet and possibly Robert Machin was buried. The original chapel was destroyed in a flood in 1803, but miraculously, a wooden crucifix survived. Swept out to sea, it was rescued by a passing ship. The “miraculous” recovery of the crucifix is commemorated every October 8 with a torchlit procession and a local public holiday the following day. Further along the sea promenade, the Chapel of São Roque stands, showcasing exquisite baroque-style architecture commissioned by Teixeira in 1489 to fulfill a vow made during a plague.

Machico’s strategic location makes it ideal for exploring Ponta de São Lourenço, the easternmost point of the island, known for its dramatic cliffs and fossil-rich terrain. Additionally, the nearby village of Caniçal, once a hub for Madeira’s whaling industry, invites exploration, with scenes from the 1956 film “Moby Dick” shot in its serene surroundings.

Machico’s beaches

The area is renowned for its beautiful beaches, with two prominent ones situated in the town center: São Roque and Praia da Banda Além. São Roque, positioned to the right of the stream dividing the town, features a pebble beach with some black sand, stretching across most of Machico’s bay. This beach is accompanied by a small pier and a spacious esplanade connecting Forum Machico and Nossa Senhora do Amparo fort. Various tourist services and facilities, including restaurants, bars, and a children’s playground, adorn the area.

Praia da Banda Além, located to the left of the stream, boasts approximately 125 meters in length and 70 meters in width. Strikingly, the beach has yellow sand imported from Morocco and is protected by the breakwaters of Machico’s small marina. Equipped with essential services such as showers, parking, restaurants, and lifeguards, it offers an ideal setting for a relaxing swim and an enjoyable day at the beach.

Beyond its sandy shores, Machico is a hub for diverse water activities. Visitors can engage in activities such as windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), sport fishing, diving, and boat trips, allowing them to explore the captivating coastline of the area.

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, social, and cultural dimensions. Other notable attractions include the Lighthouse, which provides stunning views of Ribeira Brava, Campanário, and Ponta do Sol, and the Fort of São Bento, home to the tourism office.

TIP: If you want to visit Ribeira Brava (Madeira) for just a day and want to make the most of your visit, you may want to consider taking a Full-Day Jeep Tour with Guide. This is one of the most complete and best-rated jeep tours that covers the main, must-see attractions in Madeira in about 9 hours. If you have your own transport and prefer exploring at your own pace read our
Ultimate guide to touring the South West Coast of 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 also famous for the traditional wicker sledges that descend from here.

Monte is home to a selection of high-quality hotels and restaurants, making it an appealing destination for travellers. Moreover, it’s where the largest festival in Madeira takes place, celebrated on August 15th, blending religious rituals with lively festivities. The festival attracts hundreds of immigrants and locals alike.

In addition to the devotion to Our Lady of Monte, the parish also celebrates the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a practice dating back to the 20th century and strengthened by the presence of the Emperor of Austria, who was beatified in 2004. Vestiges of this history can still be found at the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte, the local church.

Don’t miss the chance to admire the simple yet beautiful architecture of the church while in Monte. This area is also known for the Quinta Jardins do Imperador, a manor renowned for its gardens and its connection to Emperor Charles I of Austria, who lived and passed away there during his exile in Madeira in 1921.

To reach Monte, take a stroll up Rua 31 de Janeiro and then Rua do Til. Once you arrive, be sure to visit the ‘Monte Palace Tropical Garden,’ a captivating space under the Berardo Foundation’s care. It features exotic plants from around the world and stunning ornamentation, including a panel of 166 terracotta glazed tiles titled ‘The Adventures of the Portuguese in Japan.’

About 2 kilometers from Monte, in Terreiro da Luta, you can explore the largest monument in Madeira, dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Paz (Our Lady of Peace).

TIP: If you are visiting Funchal and Monte for just a day and want to make the most of your visit, you may want to consider taking a walking tour with a local guide. This is one of the most complete and best-rated city tours that covers the main, must-see attractions in Funchal  in about 2 hours. If you prefer exploring at your own pace read our
Free Self guided Walking Tour of Funchal & Monte.  If you are pushed for time and worried about all that walking try this Tuk Tuk Tour, which includes the all important Monte Toboggan Experience!

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 Faial. However, if your time in Madeira is limited, Santana is the town you should prioritize.

For those planning an extended stay in Madeira, we recommend allocating time for a few hikes, as each municipality offers routes leading to breathtaking locations. Santana has earned the designation of a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, acknowledging its well-preserved biodiversity and dedication to sustainability. This protected area spans both land and sea, acknowledging the local commitment to preserving the natural landscape and the environment. Within this region, you’ll discover over 120 kilometers of trails, featuring remarkable routes like Levada do Rei, Vereda do Pico Ruivo, and Levada do Caldeirão Verde.

Top Tip: The easiest way to visit Santana is by going on a guided tour. I think the Best of the East Tour from Funchal by Lido Tours is the most complete and best-rated tour available.

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 cliffs, which provide a stunning backdrop to the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. The air is fresh with a hint of salt, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore sets a soothing rhythm.

Natural Swimming Pools: The highlight of any visit to Porto Moniz is undoubtedly its natural lava pools. Carved out of volcanic rock and filled with crystal-clear seawater, these pools are both a marvel of natural engineering and a delightful spot for swimming and sunbathing. The pools are equipped with essential facilities such as lockers, showers, and lifeguards, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. The area around the pools also features sun loungers and umbrellas, perfect for those looking to relax and take in the sun.

Aquarium and Marine Science Center: For those interested in marine life, the Porto Moniz Aquarium is a must-visit. It is home to a variety of local marine species, providing insights into the underwater ecosystem of Madeira. Nearby, the Living Science Center offers interactive exhibits on the natural history and unique geology of the region, making it an educational experience for both adults and children.

Dining and Local Cuisine: Porto Moniz has several restaurants and cafes that boast views of the ocean. These eateries serve a range of dishes, with an emphasis on freshly caught seafood. A local favorite is the limpets cooked on a hot stone, often served with garlic and local bread. Pairing your meal with a glass of Madeira wine enhances the culinary experience.

Hiking and Sightseeing: For the more adventurous, Porto Moniz serves as a starting point for numerous hiking trails that meander along the coast and through the lush hinterlands. One popular route is the Levada dos Cedros, which offers spectacular views and passes through dense forest and alongside irrigation channels unique to the island.

Cultural Insights: Exploring the town itself, visitors can admire the quaint church, stroll through small local shops selling handicrafts, and perhaps visit the Fort of São João Baptista, which now also functions as an aquarium. The fort’s location offers panoramic views of the town and sea, making it a picturesque spot for photos.

Evening Relaxation: As the day winds down, the sunset views from Porto Moniz are breathtaking. Watching the sun dip below the horizon over the Atlantic, with the pools and cliffs silhouetted against the fading light, is a perfect way to end a day full of exploration and relaxation.

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 parishes and a site of early exploration by the island’s first settlers, Calheta holds historical significance. Established on June 1, 1502, by a Royal Decree from Dom Manuel the Virtuous, its foundation day is celebrated on June 24th, aligning with the festive St. John’s Day. Annually, the village near the beach buzzes with music, food stalls, and lively parades.

It hosts the historic Engenho da Calheta, a sugar cane factory founded in 1901, still producing sugar cane honey and ‘aguardente’ or rum. The area is also renowned for its rich variety of fish in its coastal waters.

A highlight for visitors is the Mudas Contemporary Art Museum of Madeira, an architecturally ambitious project that blends seamlessly with its environment. Known for its quality exhibitions and cultural events, it offers an iconic view of the sandy beach, the Savoy Calheta Beach hotel, and the marina. Nearby, overlooking a small pebble beach, the Savoy Saccharum Resort & Spa, a hotel harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape, is situated close to the marina.

Top Tip: One of the easiest ways to get to Calheta is by going on a Madeira South Coast Full-Day Tour, where you will alos visit a sugar cane factory and see the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse. Coming by cruise ship – no problem they even have a harbour pick up.